Exhibit Features Materials on Religion in Mississippi

News item published on: 2019-04-09 11:19:00

Religion is a key component in the lives of many Mississippians. To look at some aspects of faith in the state, staff in Special Collections curated an exhibit using materials from the collections. From the traditional to the obscure, the exhibit highlights the stories of lesser known preachers and congregations.

“Now Preaching in Your City”: Religion in Mississippi provides a unique look at religion in the state. Howard S. Williams, one of the founders of the Hattiesburg American, left journalism to travel the country as a headliner at religious revivals. The exhibit showcases publicity from his revivals, and photographs from his time on the road.

Records and books are on display from New Albany native Estus Pirkle who used films to promote his teachings and beliefs, which brought attention to his ministry in Mississippi, but also in Latin America and India. His film If Footmen Tire You, What Will Horses Do? still has a following as a cult classic example of Christian propaganda warning against the dangers of communism. In addition, there are examples of Mississippi gospel recordings by The Singing Churchmen of Mississippi and The Keesler Air Force Base Soul Choir.

“Now Preaching in Your City”: Religion in Mississippi will be on display on the third floor of McCain Library and Archives until November 1, 2019. If you have any questions about the exhibit or the collections, contact Jennifer Brannock at Jennifer.Brannock@usm.edu or 601.266.4347.