HUGHESVILLE, Md. — The Southern Maryland National Heritage Area today announced that this month Maryland Public Television (MPT) will air “Grandma’s Hands,” a unique documentary that brings Maryland’s rich history and culture to life through food and family recipes. The film is written and directed by Craig Sewell, filmed by Fog Moving Pictures, and presented by the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area.
Set to air on MPT-HD on Saturday, Nov. 23, at 7:00 p.m., this 30-minute film takes viewers into the kitchens of three Southern Maryland families. Each family shares not only the steps to prepare their beloved recipes but also the stories of their ancestors who originally created these dishes.
“We are thrilled that Maryland Public Television is airing this film, which brings the power of our personal histories together to tell the story of a region and a culture,” said Southern Maryland National Heritage Area Executive Director Lucille Walker. “Viewers will gain insights into the region’s history, its agricultural and food heritage, and the diverse culinary traditions that transcend time.”
While the families featured in “Grandma’s Hands” are different, they all share this vital tenet: The kitchen is the heart of the home, and food helps bind families and communities together across time and place.
“As a former chef and a regional agricultural development specialist, this was a passion project for me,” said “Grandma’s Hands” Writer and Director Craig Sewell. “Visiting each family’s home and hearing their stories was a privilege. As they shared their treasured dishes, they wove tales of life, love, joy, and struggle, revealing how our past shapes the tapestry of our present.”
The hour-long version of the film will also premiere on mpt.org, pbs.org and the free PBS app starting on Sunday, Nov. 24.
“Grandma’s Hands” received support from the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area, the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority, the Rural Maryland Council, the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, and the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission.
Learn more about the film and watch the trailer here.