While exploring Winchester, Virginia, I toured the Patsy Cline House to learn more about this legendary singer’s life. Join me as I take you on a whirlwind tour through the Patsy Cline Historic House and share the highlights of my unforgettable experience!
When you get hungry, check out Winchester’s Gas Station Grub Trail for some of the best food in town!
PATSY CLINE HISTORIC HOUSE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Downstairs Tour
We began in the living room, where our knowledgeable guide provided a captivating overview of Patsy Cline’s early life, blossoming musical talent, and remarkable journey to becoming a superstar.
During her formative years, Patsy (née Virginia Patterson Hensley) captivated herself with the radio, immersed in the soulful melodies of big band music, igniting her passion and inspiring her to play the piano.
Patsy’s family settled in this house in 1948 when she was just 16, marking their 19th move! Despite enrolling in high school, she eventually had to drop out to support her family financially.
She worked at a poultry factory, a bus terminal, and finally at Gaunt’s Drugstore, where her journey to fame began. Her supportive employers encouraged her to showcase her singing talent in local talent shows and performances.
She captured the attention of Bill Peer, a musician who invited her to join his band. It was then that she adopted the stage name “Patsy.”
One of the tour highlights was listening to Patsy’s breakthrough performance of “Walking After Midnight” on the Arthur Godfrey show, which catapulted her to fame.
Her talent caught the eye of music industry professionals, leading to her first record contract with 4 Star Records. Her distinct voice and emotive performances captured the hearts of listeners, launching her to fame.
In the dining room, we marveled at replicas of the costumes Patsy designed herself, lovingly sewn by her mother. Checking out Patsy’s hand-drawn fashion designs was a highlight for sure!
Patsy was quite the collector of salt and pepper shakers, and I saw many of them on display here. However, the originals are at the Patsy Cline Museum in Nashville. On the other hand, the iron and ironing board you see here are the real deal—both Patsy and her mom put them to good use back in the day.
Upstairs Tour
Imagine cramming an entire family into one bedroom. Despite the tight squeeze, they managed with Hilda’s DIY skills. She built closets on each side of the fireplace and used apple crates for nightstands. Each family member had just one dresser drawer for their essentials.
On display were some of Patsy’s original clothes, including some flashy party pants, boots worn on stage, and the iconic white hat both she and Hilda signed.
And lastly, our guide told us about the tragedy that took Patsy’s life. A benefit concert, a rush to get home to her sick son, and a fatal decision to fly in bad weather. The crash, just 90 miles from home, claimed Patsy’s life at the tender age of 30, leaving behind two young children and a grieving community.
Patsy Cline House Winchester VA – Visitor Information
Address: 608 South Kent St., Winchester, VA
Hours: 10 am – 4 pm Wed-Mon. (Closed Tuesdays)
Admission: $7-10
Guided Tours: 30-45 minutes on a walk-in basis, last tour begins at 3:30 pm.
Parking: Limited street parking along the curb is available. Please park on the opposite side of the street from Patsy Cline’s House.
Accessibility: The entrance to the Patsy Cline House is wheelchair accessible as the porch aligns with the public sidewalk. Inside, there’s a ramp leading to the first-floor living room. However, access to the dining room and kitchen may be restricted depending on your assistive device. Unfortunately, the second floor can only be reached via stairs. Chairs are provided for resting during the guided tour. If you’re arriving by car, you can use the designated “No Parking Zone” for loading and unloading. Visitors with special needs can request alternative tour options in advance.
Gift Shop: A small gift shop is on-site.
Public Restrooms: Not available.
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Other Patsy Cline Sites of Interest
Patsy Cline Mural (210 S Indian Alley, Winchester, VA) This beautiful mural is on the side of Bridgeforth Photographs in downtown Winchester.
Becoming Patsy Cline Exhibit at Winchester-Frederick Visitor Center (1400 S. Pleasant Valley Rd., Winchester, VA) This small but well-done exhibit tells the story of Patsy’s early years and rise to fame.
Patsy Cline Grave (1260 Front Royal Pike, Winchester, VA). Her final resting place is at Shenandoah Memorial Park. The grave is on the right side, behind the funeral home. It’s a flat gravestone, usually covered with coins and trinkets.
Patsy Cline Memorial (2746 Mount Carmel Rd., Camden, TN 38320) A memorial commemorating the tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of Patsy Cline, Cowboy Copas, Hawkshaw Hawkins, and their pilot, Randy Hughes, on March 5, 1963.
Patsy Cline Museum (119 3rd Ave S., 2nd level, Nashville, TN 37201) The museum celebrates the life and legacy of Patsy Cline with an extensive collection of rare artifacts, personal items, captivating videos, and more. Situated on the second floor of the Johnny Cash Museum building.
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