Thomas Greene Bethune

Thomas Greene Wiggins Bethune (1849-1908)

Thomas Greene Wiggins Bethune, known as "Blind Tom" was a musical prodigy.  He was born mentally challenged and without sight in Columbus, Georgia in 1849.  He possessed absolute pitch and a marvelous memory. By the age of 10 he was both  piano prodigy and composer.  He was said to have a repertoire of 7,000 pieces, which he learned by having them played to him.  He traveled extensively and created a stir in America and in Europe.  Thomas was believed to have been the first African American to perform at the White house when he played for president James Buchanan in 1860.