The Early Films of William Ferris 1968-1975

Seven documentary films set in the American South. Travelling throughout his home state of Mississippi, folklorist William Ferris documents the lives of different African American communities throughout the 1960s and 1970s.

Recording bluesmen, preachers and storytellers Ferris presents narratives that highlight a rich oral tradition along with some of the influences of blues music.

The films included are: 'Black Delta: Part I' (1968), 'Black Delta: Part II' (1968), 'Parchman Penitentiary' (1968), 'Give My Poor Heart Ease: Mississippi Delta Bluesmen' (1975), 'I Ain't Lyin': Folktales from Mississippi' (1975), 'Made in Mississippi: Black Folk Art and Crafts' (1975) and 'Two Black Churches' (1975).