SGMA Unveils New Displays at Dollywood

Pigeon Forge, TN (April 2, 2018) — The Southern Gospel Music Association (SGMA) has called Dollywood, the Pigeon Forge-based theme park home since its inception in 1998. Millions of fans have enjoyed the displays featuring history of their favorite Southern Gospel music artists, groups, and industry professionals. The majority of the displays have remained the same over the years but this season, fans will be delighted with over 20 new displays.

Arthur Rice, President of the SGMA stated, “We are thrilled with the new displays and items that have been added to the museum. We have been unable to make changes each season due to finances and limited staff. I called JP Miller who started his career at the SGMA and knows the history. JP knows so many artists and has a passion for the SGMA and he accepted the task and did a great job.”

New displays include items from The Hinsons, Lou Hildreth, Eva Mae LeFevre, Troy Burns Family, Arthur Rice, Buck Rambo, The Inspirations, Dottie Rambo, Ed O’Neal, Karen Peck, Rusty Goodman, Howard and Vestal Goodman, Naomi Sego, and others. One exciting display is an exhibit featuring the outfit Karen Peck wore on the movie “Joyful Noise,” starring Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah. The exhibit also displays Karen Peck and New River’s first recording on cassette. It is Karen’s personal copy and the only one she has remaining.

Fans will love a display on the original Hinsons that features clothing from all the original members, instruments, albums, and other memorabilia. Included is a set list written by Kenny Hinson. It also has check stubs from Larry and Kenny from royalties in the early days of their career. One of the checks is for fifty cents.

A favorite display is from Howard and Vestal Goodman with recognizable stage clothes from each. Attached to the clothing is one of Vestal’s handkerchiefs and one of Howard’s favorite canes. The most unique part of the display features two Cabbage Patch like dolls made in the image of Howard and Vestal. The dolls capture the very essence of the beloved couple with details like Vestal’s ring, necklace, and hair. Howard’s doll has an exact replica of his signature crown lapel pin and cane.

The SGMA Hall of Fame and Museum is open during Dollywood’s normal operating hours and sits just inside the entry gates. There is no admission to the museum once you are inside the Dollywood Theme Park. The SGMA is a non-profit organization and is supported by donations and membership dues. If you would like to join the SGMA, simply log onto their website at www.sgma.org. You can even purchase a personalized brick to honor or remember a loved one or favorite artist, which will be displayed on the walkway outside the Hall of Fame and Museum. Make plans to visit the SGMA Hall of Fame and Museum on your next trip to Pigeon Forge. You’ll be glad you did!

Source: Marcie Gray Management