Methodism in the American South
Foundation through Reunification

28 January - 11 July 2008

This exhibition traces the role of Methodism in the American South from the colonial era to the beginning of World War II. Materials as diverse as letters, diaries, maps, pamphlets, circuit riders’ saddle bags, class tickets,   periodicals, Staffordshire figurines, broadsides and photographs combine to illustrate Methodism’s origins, expansion, and influence on southern culture and society. The Methodist Church played a fundamental role in the Second Great Awakening, suffered division over slavery, saw the rapid expansion of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in the decades following the Civil War, and ultimately gave rise to new denominations during the Third Great Awakening. After the Civil War, many Methodists advocated reform, and were especially active in the social movements of the early twentieth century, including temperance, social justice, education and church reform. The exhibition closes with items documenting the reunification of the Methodist Church in 1939.

The exhibition itself will be free and open to the public from 28 January through 11 July 2008 in The Elizabeth Perkins Prothro Galleries. For more information or to schedule a tour please contact James McMillin at 214-768-4364.