Free Owsley Sunday Film: In the Good Old-Fashioned Way

Appalshop at 50

In the Good Old-Fashioned Way
Directed by Herb E. Smith

Sunday, April 21, 3 pm

Free

“An unassuming, uncritical and enthusiastic first-hand view of grassroots Protestantism.”—Booklist

The Old Regular Baptist Church is one of the oldest denominations in the Appalachian mountains, and its followers cherish its traditional practices and its sense of everlasting values in a changing world. Widespread only among mountain people, this denomination is uniquely a product of Appalachian culture. The Good Old-Fashioned Way captures the spirit and faith of the people of this church and the impact of their religion on their lives. The film documents a riverside baptism, feet-washing ceremonies, an association meeting, the music of the church, and memorial services held at a family cemetery. 1973, U.S., video, 29 minutes. Recommended for 12+.

This film was preserved by Appalshop Archive with funding from the National Film Preservation Foundation.  Followed by a gallery talk by Speed Curator of Prints, Drawings, and Photographs Kim Spence on the WPA photography of Marion Post Wolcott.

Appalshop at 50 is a year-long celebration of the non-profit organization based in Whitesburg, KY dedicated to production and presentation of the stories about Appalachia that commercial media doesn’t tell by challenging stereotypes, supporting grassroot efforts to achieve justice and equity, and celebrating cultural diversity. As part of the Speed’s celebration of the art of Kentucky, we will present work from Appalshop at one Owsley Free Sunday each month throughout 2019.