Folkstreams is a prominent brand that serves as a National Preserve of American Folklore Films. Their mission is to discover, safeguard, provide context for, and stream documentary films about American folklife. These captivating films were created by independent filmmakers who were motivated by their genuine interest in the people and traditions they encountered, rather than commercial aspirations.

Covering a wide range of communities, the documentaries focus on the culture, struggles, and arts of often overlooked Americans. While these films garnered accolades at festivals and were occasionally shown on television, they had limited availability in video shops and commercial theaters. However, they hold immense value as they reflect the intellectual movements that influenced American studies and cultural investigations.

Permanently preserving these films is essential, as they offer direct access to unfamiliar worlds that are gradually fading into history. Folkstreams also leverages this material to provide additional insights and accompany the subjects and filmmaking. By making these films accessible to a diverse audience, Folkstreams seeks to fulfill its mission of preserving and sharing these valuable records of American vernacular cultures.

As a non-profit organization, Folkstreams Inc