Merle Haggard fans will soon have the chance to get a new glimpse into his incredible life and career. Earlier today, Bill and Shannon Miller, owners of the Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline Museums, announced their partnership with the Haggard family.
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It was announced that the Merle Haggard Museum will be opened next door to the Cash and Cline museums. The museum will be located on the top floor, while a restaurant called Merle's Meat + 3 will take over the ground floor. The cantina will be operated by the Swett Family, who have owned their own restaurant in Nashville for 62 years.
Merle's wife, Theresa, and their son, Ben Haggard, were in attendance for the announcement. It was an emotional moment for the family, who shared memories and their excitement for what's to come.
"Merle would be very happy knowing that his museum will be next door to his dear friend Johnny Cash," Theresa said. "I'm sure he is up there smiling about that."
Fans can expect to see many unseen pieces of memorabilia. Some of his famous Manuel suits and other mementos from his monumental career are expected to be on display. Although it's unclear if it's structurally feasible, Theresa hopes to put Merle's own tour bus inside the museum.
Fans will be able to experience the Merle Haggard Museum and Merle's Meat + 3 beginning in Summer 2018.
