Huddie "Lead Belly" Ledbetter Born

Huddie Ledbetter, better known to the music world as “Lead Belly” was born January 20, 1889, in Mooringsport, Louisiana (near Shreveport). Lead Belly was the only child of Wesley and Sally Ledbetter. He later became known as the king of the twelve-string guitar and “Stella” as he affectionately called his guitar became his ticket to life and his freedom. Lead Belly's song catalog is consisted of well over 500 songs. Many of his songs can be found in the Library of Congress, where generations to come can listen and enjoy them.