Chillicothe — Last night a sample of a documentary on gospel music accented local Black History Month. But if you missed it, a bigger event is coming up next Thursday.
The Chillicothe Ross County Public Library partnered with Ohio University Chillicothe to show about 20 minutes of the new PBS four-hour docuseries “Gospel.” It explores “the rich history of Black spirituality through sermon and song from executive producer, host, and writer Professor Henry Louis Gates, Jr.” (Gates is also the host of “Finding Your Roots” on the History Channel.)
Liz with the library said WOUB Public Media offered the video to libraries, and they hosted the showing at OU-C because of the auditorium in Bennett Hall.
After the showing, three local experts had a long chat about the topic…ending with singing Amazing Grace. “Panelists Beverly Gray, local historian and director of the David Nickens Museum; Ric McConnell, a local gospel choir director and worship leader; and gospel musician Linda Wilson will react to the film and share perspectives on local Black Church history and music.”
On Thursday, February 15th, will be the library’s annual “Celebrating Black History Month with the Library” program, also at Ohio University Chillicothe and partnering with the local NAACP. It will feature music, performers, food, and socializing, starting at 6pm.
Hear more in my below video interview with Liz, and learn more in the the library’s webpage on the month’s events.
