FLORENCE-The Florence/Lauderdale Tourism Board is hosting a fascinating free program about the cultural history of outdoor sporting called “Alabama Rigged: A Cultural History of Fishing in North Alabama”. On Saturday April 23, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., visitors and residents will have the opportunity to receive stimulating insights into the history of this region’s sporting tradition.
In this the second venue in a three-part lecture series many fisherman and historically curious individuals will have the chance to see an illuminating lecture event and travelling exhibit.
In Florence, Director of the Center for the Study of Southern Culture from the University of Mississippi, Dr. Ted Ownby,
Ted Qwnby
will discuss men’s outdoor recreational pursuits from the late 19th to early 20th century, with much of the discussion being centered upon hunting. Ownby addresses how the meanings associated with hunting, freedom and masculine identity have significance for the more recent history and the expansion in the fishing industry.
With TVA projects came a tremendous surge in opportunity for anyone with a boat to begin to chase fish. With an expanded public waterway system came greater opportunities to experience a newfound freedom in the great outdoors.
“Alabama Rigged: A Cultural History of Fishing in North Alabama” promises not to disappoint as an exciting weekend activity for the whole family, said Project Director John Agricola.
John Agricola
The first lecture delivered by a fly fishing professor at the University of Alabama, Dr. Michael Steinberg, was well received by the public. His talk at the Guntersville Museum discussed a broad history of fly-fishing as he explained that there is room for growth in this sport right here in Alabama. This tracks the exhibit’s focus, demonstrating a close parallel between art and fishing.
The event is sponsored in part by the Alabama Humanities Foundation, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
“Project Director, John Agricola, brings his passion for fishing and cultural studies to bear in this exciting three part discussion series. Agricola has hand picked a cultural historian, a geographer, and an environmental historian to give engaging talks on diverse subjects related to fishing and Alabama waters,” said Bobby Welch, Executive Director of the Gadsden Cultural Arts Foundation
For more information on the program, contact Florence/Lauderdale Tourism at 256-740-4141 or visit www.alabamarigged.com
