Exploring Macon's Allman Brothers Band Landmarks
Duane “Skydog” Allman’s motorcycle crash site
The last two nights were spent at a campground in Indian Springs State Park, near Flovilla, GA, some 30 miles north of Macon. On Sunday, April 6th we journeyed to Macon, for a heartfelt pilgrimage into the world of the Allman Brothers Band. We delved into the band's rich history by visiting The Big House Museum, paying respects at Rose Hill Cemetery, and reflecting at the site of Duane Allman's tragic motorcycle accident.
Hillcrest Avenue and Bartlett Street
Our first stop was the intersection of Hillcrest Avenue and Bartlett Street, the site of Duane Allman's fatal motorcycle accident on October 29, 1971. Approaching this unassuming crossroads, we reflected on the profound impact of that day. Unless you grew up in the late 60’s and early 70’s listening to the band with Duane, it’s hard to understand the loss of such a talent. He was roughly three weeks shy of his 25th birthday, yet he had accomplished so much and forged the way for guitarists of every genre. Tragically, his band-mate, bassist Barry Oakley, died just over a year later in a similar motorcycle accident just three blocks from Hillcrest and Bartlett. Like Duane, Barry was just 24 years old.
The Big House Museum
The Big House Museum
After our brief, yet somber stop at Hillcrest and Bartlett, we focused our attention on The Big House Museum, located at 2321 Vineville Avenue. This historic Tudor-style home served as the band's communal residence from 1970 to 1973. Walking through its rooms, we encountered an extensive collection of memorabilia, including original instruments, handwritten lyrics, and personal artifacts that offered an intimate glimpse into the band's daily life and creative process. The collection of guitars was almost more than this wannabe guitarist could handle. The memorabilia spanned the length of their 50+ years, including the 1990’s-2000’s lineup that included Warren Haynes, Derek Trucks and Otell Burbridge. The numerous concert posters on the walls had stories to tell all on their own. We spent a solid 90 minutes touring every room in the house, soaking up the rich history of these pioneers of Southern Rock. The Big House Museum
Rose Hill Cemetery
Grave-sites: Gregg (foreground), Duane, then Barry
Next, we visited Rose Hill Cemetery, a serene resting place for several band members. The graves of Duane Allman, Gregg Allman, Berry Oakley, and Butch Trucks are located here, near the railroad tracks. A map of the cemetery was given to us by the Museum Curator, with explicit directions to the grave-sites. It's also worth noting that the cemetery is the final resting place of Elizabeth Jones Reed. Legend says that Dickey Betts was having an affair with Boz Scagg’s girlfriend and would take her to the cemetery, and the secluded location of Elizabeth Reed’s grave-site. Dickey ultimately wrote his classic instrumental “In Memory of Elizabeth Reed” about these rendezvous.
Conclusion
This journey through Macon deepened our appreciation for the Allman Brothers Band's legacy. Visiting these landmarks provided a tangible connection to their music and history, making it an unforgettable experience for any fan.
1970 Atlanta International Pop Festival Poster (zoom in to be amazed at the lineup)
Security crew shirt for 1973 “Summer Jam” at Watkins Glen
To the right: ‘57 Les Paul Gold Top, nicknamed “Layla” (IYKYK)
