A work in progress that unpacks and explores a recently received dossier of historical/geographical/genealogical information on artist Samuel J. Lewis II’s family line.

An excerpt of a forthcoming long-form stage piece, “Praiseworthy” animates the heroism of Sam’s great-great grandfather Phil McBride on the day he prevented a major tragedy.

Samuel J Lewis II - voice, crankie scroll

Hunter Diamond - drums, sampler, saxophone

More information available on the Smart Museum event page

Scan of the original 1872 article published in the Memphis Daily Appeal: