The First Musical Evening Sponsored by the American Folklife Center (Part 2)

[Library of Congress]

The First Musical Evening Sponsored by the American Folklife Center (Part 2)

05/26/2026 10:55 AM EDT

On February 19, 1976, in what could be considered the first official action of the American Folklife Center, the Library of Congress hosted a reception to celebrate the passage of the American Folklife Preservation Act, which established the Center as part of the Library. The event featured speeches by Librarian of Congress Daniel Boorstin and by folklorist and lobbyist Archie Green, as well as remarks by folklorists and members of Congress. Most importantly, the celebration featured musical performances by Alonzo Elvis “Tony” Alderman (the last living member of the pioneering old time music group the Hill Billies), The Irish Tradition, Elizabeth Cotten, John Jackson, The Country Gentlemen, and Mariachi America. In this three-part blog post, we’ll present audio selections, photos, and other documentation of the event as part of our celebration of the Center’s 50th anniversary.

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