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**Charley Patton** Charley Patton, born in April 1891 (probable) in Hinds County, Mississippi, was an influential American Delta blues singer, guitarist, and songwriter, often referred to as the "Father of the Delta Blues." His parents were Bill and Annie Patton, but there has been speculation regarding his parentage, with local belief suggesting he was fathered by former slave Henderson Chatmon. Patton was considered African-American, though his light complexion and Caucasian features led to theories about his mixed heritage, which likely included white, black, and Native ancestors. In 1897, Patton's family moved to Dockery Plantation, where he developed his musical style, influenced by Henry Sloan. He performed at Dockery and nearby plantations, gaining popularity for his showmanship and mentoring younger musicians. Patton passed away on April 28, 1934, on the Heathman-Dedham plantation near Indianola, Mississippi, due to a mitral valve disorder. His death went unreported in newspapers. In July 1990, a memorial headstone was erected on his grave, funded by a musician through the Mt. Zion Memorial Fund.

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