African American Mississippi River Baptism 1900s

Mississippi River Baptism

Photograph

[Early African American PHOTOGRAPHY] -- [RELIGION]. silver gelatin photograph of a river baptism featuring a large group of African American subjects. [Mississippi], ca early 1900s. Photograph size is 2 1/4 x 2 1/4 in. Original silver gelatin photograph on cardstock mount ).A young African American man wearing a hat and suit stands with his back to the camera, we see in the foreground on the riverbank a group of African American subjects in light clothing close to the water's edge. A large ship is just visible beyond the dock in the background. Pencil inscription on verso reads, "Miss- Colored Baptizing." 9Not: Historical records are evidence of the time in which they were created and often contain language are racist, or derogatory and insensitive. This content does not reflect our values). These type of baptism on the banks of the Mississippi River were a public ceremony that attracted many converts in the South to the Delta region. Predominately African American Baptists performed their sacred ritual of outdoor baptisms on the Mississippi River until well into the 20th century in this Baptist-heavy state. Immersion baptisms typically took place in rivers or other natural bodies of water, and summer and fall were the natural seasons for these congregational events. This rare photo captures a religious practice that has been integral to African-American Baptists for centuries. Photo has some toning, surface soiling, spotting, and very small tear to right edge. But is still clear and in good to very good condition.

Item #17766

Price: $385.00