With Humphreys County, Mississippi claiming “Catfish Capital of the World,” Mississippi has become known worldwide for their delicious fish. Due to the Delta’s geographically flat nature, with elevations of 100 to 150 feet above sea level, Mississippi was instrumental in the birth and progress of the U.S. farm-raised catfish industry. Catfish has been a significant form of farming in Mississippi since the late 1960s and Mississippi holds the record for 35,000 acres and 6,000 catfish to an acre.

Illustrative of its persistent economic and culinary presence, Mississippians’ long-time enjoyment of catfish is reflected in history, folklore, literature, and music. One of the most longstanding artistic artifacts is the song “Catfish Blues,” which was originated by a Mississippi bluesman named Robert Petway in 1941, though the most famous line about wishing one was a catfish can be heard on record as early as 1928. Though little is known about Petway, “Catfish Blues” has gone on to influence Muddy Waters, The Rolling Stones, and Jimi Hendrix.

"Catfish Blues" / Robert Petway. Mississippi Blues Vol. 3 "Catfish Blues". ℗ 2002 Document Records Ltd.

In the display case:

• Catfish Blues / Catfish Keith

• Typewritten, prize-winning recipes: Farm-Raised Catfish Pizza with Tartar Topping and Hush Puppy Crust (runner up) and Farm-Raised Catfish, Kiev Style (winner)

• Humphreys County, Mississippi: "Catfish Capital of the World" and Catfish FAQ

Shearwater Pottery was founded and operated by Peter Anderson, brother of renowned Mississippi artist Walter Anderson, in Ocean Springs, Miss. Though Peter died in 1984, the shop is still run by the Anderson family.

"The Shearwater Pottery workshop and Annex still operate today using the fundamentals taught to them by Peter, Walter, and Mac. Each piece of pottery is created individually, and each has its own unique features. As Shearwater was and still remains a small family business many of the younger generation have worked or are working within the family business." -- About

• Walter: A Shearwater Fish. Inspired by the art of Walter Anderson.