Learn About Woodie Guthrie's Stay At Graystone

From Morris County Historical Society: Photographer Phil Buehler and Woody Guthrie’s granddaughter, Anna Guthrie Canoni, will share stories and photos from the folk singer’s days at Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital on Sunday, March 25, 2 p.m., at Morris County Historical Society’s Acorn Hall.

Guthrie, who suffered from Huntington’s disease, a degenerative neurological disorder, was a patient at Greystone from 1956 through 1961. He lived in Ward 40 and referred to it as Wardy Forty. It was here that a young and unknown Bob Dylan met his idol and a musical torch was passed. Buehler has dedicated much of his life exploring the ruins of 20 th century America. While visiting the Greystone site, Buehler stumbled upon photographs and negatives of Guthrie as a patient.

He reached out to Guthrie’s daughter, Nora, at the Woody Guthrie Foundation & Archives, and with Guthrie’s case number in hand, Buehler began a 10-year odyssey that resulted in a book, co-authored with Guthrie Canoni, Woody Guthrie’s Wardy Forty: Greystone Park State Hospital Revisited. Buehler and Guthrie Canoni’s presentation will include untold and inspiring stories of Woody’s life at Greystone. Images of the decaying hospital are juxtaposed with Guthrie’s letters, family snapshots, home movies and recollections of his friends, family and doctors. A book signing for Buehler and Guthrie Canoni’s Wardy Forty: Greystone Park State Hospital Revisited will follow their talk.

As seating is limited, RSVPs and advance ticket purchases are strongly encouraged. Tickets are $12 for adults; $10 for seniors; $7 for students; and free for MCHS members and children under 12. To RSVP, purchase tickets, or for further information, visit the MCHS web site: MorrisCountyHistory.org, or call MCHS at 973-267- 3465. Acorn Hall is located at 68 Lafayette Ave., Morristown.

Image Via Shuttershock