In December of 1985, Bill Wells – a retired Navy man and musician raised in the coal-mining region of southwestern Virginia – opened Bill’s Pickin’ Parlor and Music Shop in West Columbia. He immediately posted newspaper ads for bluegrass music jam sessions that were the start of what has become a tradition at 710 Meeting Street.

Bill Wells Photos | Digital Traditions
Bill Wells Photos | Digital Traditions

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In December of 1985, Bill Wells – a retired Navy man and musician raised in the coal-mining region of southwestern Virginia – opened Bill’s Pickin’ Parlor and Music Shop in West Columbia. He...