Blind Tom” Wiggins

 

Blind Tom” Wiggins (1849-1908) was born blind and, as a baby, was sold into slavery along with his whole family. Because his owners thought he had no value, someone even tried to kill him—but he survived. Tom later found a piano, and right away, people noticed his amazing gift for hearing, remembering, and playing music. Many experts now believe that Tom may have been on the autism spectrum, which could explain his incredible memory. He went on to perform in concerts across the Americas and Europe. His amazing talent touched people all over the world, including Elton John, who wrote a song to honor him.


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