In the Good Old Fashioned-Way (Film)

In the Good Old Fashioned-Way

  •  Herb E. Smith
  •  1973
  • Color IconColor
  •  29:00
  •  16 mm film
Film Description
The Old Regular Baptist Church is one of the oldest denominations in the Appalachian mountains. Its followers cherish its traditional practices and its sense of everlasting values in a changing world. In the Good Old Fashioned Way documents a riverside baptism, foot-washing ceremonies, an Association Meeting, the music of the church, and memorial services held at a family ceremony. Widespread only among mountain people, this religion is uniquely a product of Appalachian culture — and this documentary is a rare look at its practices.

Screenings & Festivals
  • American Film Festival
  • International Festival de Conema, Figueira da Foz, Portugal
  • British Film Institute
  • Pacific Film Archive


This film was preserved by Appalshop Archive with support from the National Film Preservation Foundation. To support the work of preserving and safeguarding the collections, please consider designating a donation to Appalshop Archive.


Reviews

"An exemplary educational resource for those interested in religion, ritual, and culture." — Duke Divinity School
"An unassuming, uncritical and enthusiastic first-hand view of grassroots Protestantism for audiences in public libraries, religious institutions, and anthroplogy and comparative religion classes." — Booklist
"It was superb." — Eckerd College