Bill Sackter playing his harmonica. Photo courtesy of Barry Morrow.
From the exhibit:
“Playing the harmonica was a unique skill that Bill had, something he could do that many other people couldn’t do. He enjoyed playing on stage with Barry and his friends in a band, and played it in lieu of speeches (when they’d let him) at awards ceremonies.
Bev Morrow once said, ‘He’d play for kids, in the park, just sitting by himself. He was always playing his harmonica.'”
Bill was taught to play the instrument as a young man by his Uncle Joe, who was also an inmate at Faribault. Joe was institutionalized due to a speech impediment, something that would not warrant such treatment today.
From co-curator Brad Ferrier:
“There are many audio and video examples of Bill’s voice that are especially endearing, but hearing him play the harmonica is unforgettable.”
Listen to these two clips of Bill playing the harmonica:
Special thanks to Barry Morrow, Jack Doepke, and Lane Wyrick for making these audio files available.