Abstract: This small collection consists of a single artifact: Washboard Willie’s Washboard. William Paden Hensley, better known as Washboard Willie, was an American Detroit blues musician who specialized in playing the washboard. William was born in rural Alabama in either 1906 or 1909, first making an appearance in Detroit in 1948. After a spontaneous set with Eddie “Guitar” Burns at a club, Willie’s career as a washboard rhythm section began. After a few years working with other Detroit blues artists, Willie started his own band, The Super Suds of Rhythm in 1956 with Boogie-Woogie Red on piano and Calvin Frazier on guitar. His band was in high demand, playing nightly in both Detroit and Ann Arbor, including a set at the 1972 Ann Arbor Blues and Jazz festival. This artifact was donated to DSC by Detroiter Blake Angove in honor of his late brother, Garfield Angove. Garfield was a jump and blues musician, playing many venues in Detroit with his band. This artifact reminds us of the interconnectedness of Detroit’s musical history, with unexpected connections being found across years and musicians.
Donor(s): Blake Angove, in memory of Garfield and Paula Angove
Dates: Unknown, though Willie’s playing career spanned roughly 1956-1979
Extent: .25 LF
Collection Type: Physical
Subjects: Blues, Detroit Blues, Ann Arbor
Related Collections and Artifacts:
- The Graystone International Jazz Museum Collection