Benton, Thomas Hart, 1889-1975

Recordings related to artist Thomas Hart Benton, his family, and the creation of his mural, "Independence and the Opening of the West" at the Harry S. Truman Library in Independence, MO.

SR64-105-2 is in two parts. It has commentary between Truman Library curator Milton Perry and Thomas Hart Benton. It has extensive recordings of Benton's daughter, Jessie Benton, playing and singing music with her father. They play guitar and harmonica. It also begins a conversation with Benton's wife, Rita Benton.

Interview with artist Thomas Hart Benton by Harry S. Truman Library museum curator Milton F. Perry about the creation of the Benton Mural, "Independence and the Opening of the West," in the lobby of the Truman Library. Benton goes through the history of the area, and describes the visual elements that make up the mural. This recording is also referred to as the oral history of Thomas Hart Benton.

For the official Oral History transcript, see also: https://www.trumanlibrary.gov/library/oral-histories/benton

Program for Thomas Hart Benton, sponsored by the American Institute of Architects. Mr. Benton speaking to some 150 people in the auditorium of the Harry S. Truman Library.