Blind Tom, the Musical Prodigy, who performed at the Egyptian Hall in 1866

Blind Tom is an extraordinary character, even by Egyptian Hall standards. He has his own Wikipedia page which tells us that he was an American musical prodigy on the piano. He had numerous original compositions published and had a lengthy and largely successful performing career throughout the United States. During the 19th century, he was one of the best-known American performing pianists and one of the best-known African-American musicians. Although he lived and died before autism was described, he is now regarded as an autistic savant. During his European tour he performed at the Egyptian Hall. This is one of the items contained in a wooden box of 19th century ephemera, mainly relating to the Egyptian Hall. To view all the items from the box, click on View Details and then the Key Phrase ‘Wooden box items’.