Bessie Smith Cultural Center of Chattanooga

Address: 200 East M L King Boulevard. Chattanooga, TN 37403  -  Phone: (423) 266-8658

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Featured News & Events

Song-book: Luther Vandross featuring Harley Griffin

Event Dates:  Sunday, Feb. 12th 2012

An evening of romance, delectable food, dancing and silky smooth ballads is planned for Sunday, February 12 at 6 pm at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center located at 200 E. Martin Luther Kin…

“Works by Duncan” closing reception and artists talk by Isaac Duncan, III and Richard Hunt

Event Dates:  Wednesday, Feb. 29th 2012

The Bessie Smith Cultural Center cordially invites you to the closing reception for "Works by Duncan" on Tuesday, February 29, 2012 at 6:00 p.m..  Meet the artist, Isaac Duncan, III as he t…

FAAA Art Purchase Party

Event Dates:  Saturday, Feb. 4th 2012

Join Friends of African American Art (FAAA) on Saturday, February 4, 2012 at 6:30 p.m. as we help the Hunter choose a contemporary African American art work to become part of the collection…

Sing Mahalia Sing

Event Dates:  Sunday, Oct. 23rd 2011, 6:00pm – 11:59pm

The Bessie Smith Cultural Center and The Creative Underground proudly presents a centennial birthday celebration of the life and music of Mahalia Jackson in “Sing, Mahalia, Sing” A Go…

Friends of African American Art

Event Dates:  Saturday, Jan. 1st 2011

About Friends of African American Art: Friends of African American Art is an interest group formed by the Bessie Smith Cultural Center and the Hunter Museum of American Art for art lovers…

“The Bessie” Event Photos!

Posted:  Tuesday, Feb. 15th 2011 – 12:39pm

An Intimate Evening with Avery*Sunshine …

Current Exhibit

Works by Duncan

Duncan, a Brooklyn Native and Chattanooga sculptor, will present his investigations of creating objects in space that im…

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Welcome to the Bessie Smith Cultural Center

Located in the mecca of Chattanooga, TN, the Bessie Smith Cultural Center is a Chattanooga landmark and an educational resource that enriches the cultural life of visitors through renowned artistic exhibits, high quality musical events and performances, and historical educational and cultural programs.

Discover culture, history, art, and entertainment at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center!

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We depend on the generous contributions of our members and supporters to continue the important work of collecting and preserving African American history.

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Museum Hours

Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday, Noon to 4 p.m.
Sunday, Closed

Admission Information