Atchafalaya Houseboat on PBS and DVD
That was thirty years ago, and the couple, reunited for the first time since they went their separate ways, rediscovers the quiet joy of being on the river and the places, now reclaimed by naure, where they tilled the soil for the food that sustained them. Their life in the swamp was far removed from the stresses of society, and just drifting with them as they follow the flow of their memories gives you a sense of peace, and of nature's abundance.
Their recollections become intriguing visions as the exquisite stills provided by world renown photographer CC Lockwood, who visited and photographed the reclusive couple often, are incorporated into the film.
The half hour documentary was produced by Louisiana Public Broadcasting and is being aired on PBS stations around the nation. If you miss the broadcast, you can order the film on DVD And, Gwen Carpenter Roland has also written a book about her life in the Atchafalaya Basin.
(PHOTO: Gwen Carpenter Roland and Calvin Voisin on their houseboat. Courtesy CC Lockwood)
Comments
Lord, how I long for those days and nights. There were truly, stars on the water.In the 70’s, the bayous and swamps still offered easy living, without the intrusion of government. But, that, my cher, is long gone.
saw the program on PBS last night for the first time. Oh, how I wish that I could have that experience. It might be a little more difficult at 52 (my age now) than it would have been at 20 or even 30, but I believe that I would try to have a go at it. The only thing that scares me is the SNAKES!!!
i loved this story, was it all documented by gwen? she is gorgeous now and then! very inspirational.