Riverside Hotel (Clarksdale, Mississippi)

Riverside Hotel is a historic hotel located in Clarksdale, Mississippi, known for its significant contributions to the American music scene, particularly the blues. This establishment has played host to numerous legendary musicians and has become a landmark in the Delta Blues heritage.

History

The building that houses the Riverside Hotel was originally constructed as a hospital in 1927, serving the African American community of Clarksdale. It transitioned into a hotel in 1944, operated by Mrs. Z.L. Ratliff, who converted the structure following the hospital's closure. The Riverside Hotel has remained in the Ratliff family since its conversion, maintaining its historical integrity and significance.

Significance

The Riverside Hotel is renowned for its deep connections to the blues genre. It is famously known as the place where Bessie Smith, the "Empress of the Blues," was taken after her tragic car accident in 1937, leading to her death. The hotel's rooms are named after the many artists who have stayed there, including Muddy Waters, Ike Turner, and John Lee Hooker, making it a pilgrimage site for blues enthusiasts and musicians alike.

Cultural Impact

The hotel's legacy extends beyond its walls into the broader cultural landscape of Clarksdale and the Mississippi Delta. It is a cornerstone of the region's rich musical heritage, embodying the struggles, stories, and triumphs of the blues. The Riverside Hotel has been featured in numerous documentaries, books, and research studies on the blues and is an essential stop on the Mississippi Blues Trail.

Preservation

Efforts to preserve the Riverside Hotel and its storied history are ongoing. It is recognized as a historic landmark, not only for its architectural significance but also for its role in the cultural and social history of the American South. Preservationists and blues enthusiasts advocate for its maintenance as a living museum of music history.

See Also

• Delta Blues
• Mississippi Blues Trail
• Bessie Smith
• Muddy Waters