Religion in Mississippi focus of Special Collections Exhibit

Religion's impact on the culture of Mississippi and the everyday lives of its citizens can be viewed in a new exhibit at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) that draws from material found in its University Libraries' Special Collections. 

“Now Preaching in Your City”: Religion in Mississippi was assembled by members of the Special Collections staff, and includes a spotlight on the stories of not-so famous ministers and faith communities throughout the Magnolia State. It is on display now through Nov.1 on the third floor of McCain Library and Archives on the Hattiesburg campus.

Howard S. Williams, one of the founders of the Hattiesburg American newspaper, is featured in the exhibit. Williams left journalism to travel the country as a headliner at religious revivals, and the exhibit showcases publicity and photos from his travels. Examples of Mississippi gospel recordings by The Singing Churchmen of Mississippi and The Keesler Air Force Base Soul Choir can also be found in the exhibit.

In addition, records and books are on display from Estus Pirkle, a native of New Albany who employed films to promote his teachings and beliefs, bringing attention to his ministry not only in Mississippi but in Latin America and India as well. 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.

From its strong Jewish community to the unique evangelical films of Pirkle, to the race relations work of renowned pastor Will Campbell, religion in the state has taken on different forms, said Jennifer Brannock, professor and curator of Rare Books and Mississippiana in Special Collections.

“It was so difficult to curate this exhibit because there are so many fascinating aspects of religion in Mississippi,” said Brannock. “Looking at all of the different religious histories in one setting is remarkable, and allows you to see the many pieces that represent people in the state.”

For more information about this exhibit or University Libraries' Special Collections, contact Brannock at jennifer.brannockFREEMississippi or 601.266.4347.