Effort to declare Johnson birthplace a landmark gains steam

BY BONNIE L. JACKSON

The Board of Supervisors and the City of Hazlehurst have agreed to do their part in getting the home where Robert Johnson was born listed as a historical landmark.  
Daphine Foster, Chamber President, member of the Historic Preservation and Tourism Committees and Jim Brewer, member of the Tourism Committee are spearheading the effort.
Once this designation is granted, the house will automatically qualify for special grants to restore and preserve it.
Brewer, the person who coined the State motto “Birthplace of American Music”, talked about plans to secure private funding for a welcome center in the vicinity of the old Wal-mart location.
It was noted that Senator John Horhn and Leland Speed with the Mississippi Authority have expressed their support of this plan.
The supervisors approved a resolution last week supporting the effort.
Foster stated that Brewer will manage the grant, and, she will administer the grant, if awarded.