Cauthen Fellowships are awarded to individuals to conduct original research on an Alabama folk tradition, defined as a tradition passed down through the generations or shared in community in Alabama. This includes, but is not limited to, music, dance, traditional arts, foodways, language, holidays, cultural practices, and work life.

The fellowship award is $1,000, the work period is one year, and research is expected to result in a written article for Tributaries, journal of the AFA. Applications are received online and will open in January 2027. Contact us with any questions, or to request a paper copy.

Logan Barrett Birmingham Hot Dog: A New South Labor History

Lathram Berry Resin as Medicine: Turpentining in South Alabama

Teairra Evans Black Family Compounds in Alabama’s Black Belt

Beth Hunter The Birmingham Quilters Guild

Jordan Mahaffey Handcrafted Grave Markers in Sumter County

Leah Nodar Historic Workers of Mobile

Michael Panhorst Grave Shelters in Alabama

Mollie Waters Funerary Stonemasonry of H. W. Hitchcock

Jency Wilson The "Singing River" Legend in the Shoals

The work of the 2022 Cauthen Fellows is featured in Tributaries 17, available as a free PDF and a hard copy for purchase.

The work of the 2014 Cauthen Fellows comprises Tributaries 14, available as a free PDF and a hard copy for purchase.

Established in 2010 to honor her contributions to Alabama folklife and commitment to the AFA, the Joyce H. Cauthen Fellowship Fund provides awards to community and academic researchers to document and preserve Alabama folkways.