Southern Appalachian Studies, Berea, Ky.

Creation of the Southern Appalachian Studies organization resulted from deliberations at a 1956 interdenominational conference of religious workers organized by Willis D. Weatherford, Sr. The conference focus was on the possibilities of cooperative programs in religious education and welfare in the Appalachian Region. It was determined that a survey was needed to examine: (1) changes since the 1935 United States Department of Agriculture study; (2) educational, religious, and social influences; (3) differences between urban and rural churches; (4) attitudes towards industrialization; (5) immediate needs and the capacity of social agencies to meet those needs. The Berea based project drew staff from regional educational institutions and government agencies. It was financed by a major Ford Foundation grant and with funds from area churches and educational institutions.