For a small, central Louisiana town, Ferriday has a pretty big reputation &8212; and the potential for a bright, vibrant future, too.

Like many unique places, Ferriday has an interesting, even quirky, history.

What began as an early 19th century wedding gift eventually became a thriving farming hub and railroad town.

In more modern times, Ferriday has earned fame as the birthplace of rock &8217;n&8216; roll legend Jerry Lee Lewis, evangelist Jimmy Swaggart and country singer and nightclub founder Mickey Gilley.

But for locals, Ferriday is much, much more. From the agricultural industry that surrounds the town to the school traditions of the Ferriday Trojans and Huntington Hounds, Ferriday is rich with culture, history and the potential for an economic rebirth.

In a tangible way, Ferriday&8217;s future is tied to its past. The recent development of the Delta Music Museum has been an excellent addition to the area. The continuing success of area farmers continues an agricultural tradition that is much older than the town.

But Ferriday isn&8217;t a town solely looking back in history. Lots of things are in the works, from a continuing effort to revitalize downtown to a burgeoning alternative fuel business, Ferriday is on the edge of greatness again.

Soon folks will be talking about Ferriday using a line from native son Jerry Lee Lewis: Goodness gracious, Ferriday&8217;s on fire.