Remembering History: Thomas Greene Bethune, nicknamed Blind Tom, 1st Black pianist to win national fame. He was was also the 1st black artist known to have performed at the White House. Then about age 10, he played the piano for President James Buchanan. Born a slave near Columbus, Georgia, his talent as a composer and a pianist was soon recognized by Colonel Bethune, who had purchased him in 1850.

Thomas Greene Bethune, nicknamed Blind Tom, 1st Black pianist to win national fame. He was was also the 1st black artist known to have performed at the White House. Then about age 10, he played the piano for President James Buchanan. Born a slave near Columbus, Georgia, his talent as a composer and a pianist was soon recognized by Colonel Bethune, who had purchased him in 1850.

Thomas Greene Bethune, nicknamed Blind Tom, 1st Black pianist to win national fame. He was was also the 1st black artist known to have performed at the White House. Then about age 10, he played the piano for President James Buchanan. Born a slave near Columbus, Georgia, his talent as a composer and a pianist was soon recognized by Colonel Bethune, who had purchased him in 1850.