Capturing African-American history through his lens was a God-given talent possessed by photographer Ernest C. Withers. A native Memphian, he captured the African-American experiences, immortalizing people, events, and the cultural and societal changes surrounding him. As an African-American man, he was poised to witness and record the struggle for civil rights that enveloped the Memphis community during this time.
His stunning black-and-white images bear witness to the movement’s slow but steady progress, from the grisly murder of young Emmett Till to the integration of Little Rock High School. Withers was there for the high points such as the first desegregated bus ride, as well as the lowest point marked by the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the Lorraine Motel. He is known around the world for his “I Am A Man” sanitation strike photograph.
His coverage of these newsworthy events allowed Withers and his wife, Dorothy, to raise and educate seven children on his income. Although his studio address changed frequently, Withers was often based on Beale Street, the very heart of the Memphis music scene, and birthplace of the blues. Over several decades he photographed the likes of B.B. King, Isaac Hayes, Aretha Franklin and Elvis Presley. Withers captured them in the heat of driving performances, mugging for his camera and at quieter moments backstage.
As a freelance photographer, Withers often attended Negro League Baseball games where he was treated like an insider. He knew the players, photographing them in action or posed with family and fans on the field.
Withers was often there when history was made. He photographed the swearing-in ceremony of the first African-American mayor of Memphis, Dr. W.W. Herenton.
Pictures Tell The Story is the first retrospective look at the more than 50-year career of Ernest Withers. The recipient of numerous awards, Withers received two honorary doctorate degrees and was inducted into the Black Press Hall of Fame in 1988. His photographic genius continues to be displayed in multiple exhibits in museums and public buildings across the country.
