The Cotton Museum is on the floor of the refurbished Memphis Cotton Exchange. The museum does an excellent educational job, using several strategically located multi-media tools, with places to sit for a bit, to describe the role cotton played in the world, as well as in the States, and particularly in the South and Memphis. You will learn how King Cotton shaped the economy, as well as the cultural identity of the area, especially its profound influence on music—including the birth of the blues—in Memphis. This museum was simply a little gem. It is also good for children as they will learn about the cotton plant, the effect of boll weevils, and they can even card some cotton for a real live experience. The gift shop gives plenty to explore and take away…a lovely few hours.

– Lori J. Anderson

I really enjoyed this museum. I had no idea the depth of an impact cotton had on so many aspects of life. This museum teaches you about cotton trading, slavery, minstrel shows, blues music, etc. You also learn about how cotton fabric used to be made and how it is made now. It is a small museum, but I still spent a fair amount of time there as there was a lot to read and quite a few videos I could watch. There are two sections, one that is more catered to adults, and one about cotton today that is more kid friendly.

– Katelynn Pugmire

$9 for Seniors or students
Group rates available
Historic site at the original Cotton Exchange. Amazing how many businesses began and flourished from the cotton industry.
It was very informative and a great stop downtown Memphis on a rainy day.

– Terre Kelly