Dear AMA,

A significant Arkansas story is unfolding at the intersection of music history and cultural preservation.

A major fundraising initiative is underway to commission a full-scale bronze statue honoring Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the Arkansas-born artist widely recognized as the Godmother of Rock & Roll. The monument, created by Big Statue, will be installed in her birthplace of Cotton Plant, Arkansas.

The fundraising effort is led by community advocate Thomas S. Tucker, Ph.D., with all funds stewarded by the Cotton Plant Historical Museum, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by Angela Floyd Ryland.

The Museum will also host its annual Sister Rosetta Tharpe Celebration on Friday, March 20, 2026. The free community event will feature:

• 3:00 p.m. – Unveiling of the future statue site

• 4:00 p.m. – Sister Rosetta Tharpe Concert

• 5:00 p.m. – DJ and community gathering

• 3:00–7:00 p.m. – Food vendors

The concert will be headlined by nationally recognized independent recording artist, songwriter, and producer Kami Renee.

We would welcome to join us. 

Sincerely,
Angela R Ryland, Executive Director

COTTIN PLANT HISTORICAL MUSEUM

(870)270-0886