I went to Hartford to meet up with a Chicago blues guitar player, OSee Anderson, who has agreed to do an oral history with me. I spent three evenings rocking to the Blues at Blackeyed Sally's BBQ & Blues. Besides meeting OSee, I had the rare pleasure of meeting Phil Guy, who had a gig at the club on Friday evening. With OSee backing Phil up, the club was jumping. Sitting in a club, eating great food, talking to lengendary musicians and being able to call it all RESEARCH for a book - it doesn't get any better than that!
Quick Tips:
I would highly recommend visiting the Old State House, right in the center of the city. They have costumed actors who will give you a guided tour and are very knowledgeable about their city. I spent two hours with George, a young man dressed as an aide de camp for Generals Washington and Rouchambeau. These two powerful men met in Hartford to discuss the campaign at Yorktown, which ended Britain's domination of our country. Facinating take. Also visit the Wadsworth Antheneum on Main Street, a beautiful museum. Hartford's downtown is filled with stylish building, with a mix of old and new. The immediate downtown area is easily walkable.Best Way To Get Around:
There is good public bus service during the day, but after hours it can be a long wait. If you stay in the city (I did not) you will not need a car. If you stay with friends, like me, you need a car. Great walking city, and I used a few taxis as well when I got tired of walking! Taxi fares were reasonable.