Interview with Seminole healer Susie Billie's apprentice Mary Johns

General Note/Comment

• One audio cassette. Johns was funded to learn from Billie traditional Seminole herbal medicine including preparation of herbs, herbal treatments, healing songs, and the historical background. The Folk Arts Apprenticeship Program began in 1983 with a NEA grant of $22,000. The program provided an opportunity for master folk artists to share technical skills and cultural knowledge with apprentices in order to keep the tradition alive. Apprentices must have had some experience in the tradition and agreed to train for at least six months. The first project director was Blanton Owen, later replaced by folklorist Peter Roller, and then Robert Stone. The program was continued each year through 2004.