Discover Middle Georgia: Allman Brothers Band Museum

MACON, Georgia. (41NBC/WMGT) – American rock music was extremely popular in the 1960’s and 70’s with many artists writing and performing across the nation. One band produced many of their own hit songs right here in Middle Georgia.

Vineville Avenue showcases many old, historic homes – one of which housed The Allman Brothers Band.

During the late 1960’s and early 1970’s the Allman Brothers Band was recording at Capricorn Records in Macon.

Linda, wife of bassist Berry Oakley, spotted what’s now known as the “The Big House” for rent and immediately fell in love with its architecture and layout, picturing a nice home for her family.

Brent Richard, Director of Collections and Merchandise at The Big House, says the house was originally the Oakley house, “but it was the communal home for the original Allman Brothers Band, so for the first year Duane and Gregg lived here with them and everyone else just kind of crashed here.”

After the first year, Duane and Gregg Allman moved out, but The Big House was home to other band members, their families and roadies until 1973.

Many famous songs by The Allman Brothers Band were written right here in Middle Georgia, at The Big House.

Dickey Bettes wrote the song “Blue Sky” with lyrics referencing the church bells ringing across the street. He also wrote the hit “Ramblin’ Man” in the kitchen of the home.

Kirk West worked and toured with the band. He eventually purchased The Big House in 1993 and opened the doors to the outside world.

Richard says that when fans found out West lived at the house that The Allman Brothers Band used to crash in, they “would just ring the doorbell here and come in.”

In 2006, The Big House Foundation formed and the museum collection started.

The rehearsal room was once full of artist performing their latest breaking hits, including The Allman Brothers Band. Today, it’s filled with memorabilia with everything from showcases to guitars and original song lyrics.

One item that draws fans to The Big House is Duane Allman’s ’57 gold top guitar that was used on the band’s first two albums.

Another feature of the home that peaks people’s interest is the building itself.

The Big House has more to offer than just music. The building was constructed in 1904 and catches people’s eye with its distinct architecture.

Aside from The Allman Brothers Band, Nathaniel Harris, founder of Georgia Tech and a governor of the state of Georgia, also resided at the house.

The Allman Brothers Band Museum is open for visitation Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

On October 26, The Allman Brothers Band Museum will host a Halloween party featuring famous guitarist Scott Sharrard as he tours his brand new album “Saving Grace.” Tickets to the event are $20 and can be purchase from The Big House.