Historic monument sign for Ernest Hogan

Ernest Hogan – Father of Ragtime – Historic Marker

By the 1890s, Harney was a prominent songwriter and performer, pioneering ragtime music with his 1895 composition, “La Pas Ma La,” widely considered the first published ragtime song. He quickly became one of the best-known entertainers of the era, breaking new ground for Black performers on major stages, including a starring role in the first Black show to grace a Broadway theater in 1898.

Though Harney passed in 1909, his influence remains undeniable, not just as a pioneer in ragtime, but as a trailblazer for Black entertainers across America. As you stop at this historical marker on the Kentucky Music Trail, you’re standing in the hometown of a musical legend whose rhythms helped shape the sound of a nation.

Events

Upcoming Events

From national headliners to impromptu jam sessions, there’s always live music in the air in Kentucky. See what’s on stage during your exploration of the Kentucky Music Trail.

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Digital Passport

Rewarding YourLove of Music

Track your travels along the Kentucky Music Trail with the free passport app. Simply visit participating sites to collect “check-ins”—the more milestones you reach, the more giveaways you could qualify for including concert tickets and VIP merch.