Fourteen years ago I began writing The Encyclopedia Of Jerry Garcia Music Venues. It's the only book that combines all of Jerry's side band dates and the Grateful Dead's dates together by venue.
Alphabetically by state, there are 1300 venues that include rehearsal, recording, performance, living spaces and planned/canceled show venues.
The history of each venue is here including architects, builders, owners, opening night performances and other notable appearances, murals, statues, stage prosceniums, backstage areas, pipe organs, secret rooms, hidden tunnels, restorations and demolitions.
Jerry's history at each venue includes the bands he played with, set lists, opening acts and other information giving the reader an idea of what went down at every date on every tour. In many cases via dated photos, what guitar Jerry was playing, and other anecdotal stuff that we love to read.
I've added eye witness reports to as many specific dates as possible. These are numerous, hysterical and heartwarming.
There are thousands of footnotes for verifying all the information.
Thus far I‘ve collected 950 hi res venue photos approved by over 900 photographers. I've utilized college and public library special collections, historical societies, museums, architectural firms, Flickr and others.
Jerry owned over 135 musical instruments in his lifetime, giving away most of them. Each is documented, many with hi-res photos.
Envision two large two volumes similar to an old bible. This is a book that resembles the records kept for medieval pilgrimages to holy sites. People will want to know centuries from now where it all took place...so there ya go!
LATEST UPDATE May 14, 2023:
I am so proud and excited to announce that the Kickstarter campaign for The Encyclopedia of Jerry Garcia Music Venues is going LIVE on June 3, 2023! I'll post the link here and in many other places. If you'd like me to send it to you please send your email address to slipnut01@gmail.com.
