WHITE SPRINGS — Composer Stephen Foster was celebrated at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park Saturday, Jan. 21 and Sunday, Jan. 22.

Stephen Foster composed more than 200 songs during his lifetime and is considered America’s first professional songwriter. On Jan. 13, 1864, he passed away at the age of 37. In 1951, his legacy was memorialized when the United States Congress adopted a joint resolution for the observance of National Stephen Foster Memorial Day on the anniversary of the composer’s death. Many of his songs remain popular 150 year after his death including, “Oh! Susanna,” “My Old Kentucky Home,” “Camptown Races,” and “Old Folks At Home.”

Ladies and gentlemen vied for the title of Jeanie and Stephen at the 66th Annual Jeanie/Stephen Auditions Jan. 21. 

Austin Cripe was named the 2017 Stephen and Christine Honein was named the 2017 Jeanie. 

The 2017 Jeanie Maid was Carlie Adams and 2017 Stephen runner-up  was Lucas Coura.

The following day, a large crowd turned out for the annual National Stephen Foster Day, held inside the museum Jan. 22.

The Carillon Bell Tower were played at the beginning of the program. The tower boasts the world’s largest tubular bells that resonate from the 200 foot tall tower.

Michael Vickey and Jan Krauqheim performed several of Stephen Foster’s songs on the Hammered Dulcimer, Appalachian Dulcimer, piano and guitar. 

Due to the weather, 2016 Stephen Josiah Martin was unable to perform. In his place, Stephen Foster volunteer Linda Schenavar performed several songs. 

This event was sponsored by the Florida Federation of Music Clubs (FFMC) and Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park.