Tennessee Tech Archives hosts documentary about FBI’s most wanted Billy Dean Anderson for TWO nights!

Posted on August 22, 2025 by University Archives

Movie poster image for “A Long Hard Streak: The Billy Dean Anderson Story.” The image depicts a man in a cave, painting on a canvas.

“A Long Hard Streak” by Director/Producer Scott Rabideau

Cookeville, TN.

Tennessee Tech Archives and Special Collections, in collaboration with WCTE and Director Scott Rabideau, invites students and the public to an exciting documentary screening that explores the story of Billie Dean Anderson of Fentress County —an Appalachian artist and one of the FBI’s most wanted men.

“Wanted by The FBI: Billy Dean Anderson” flyer

Tech Archives will offer two events: one on October 1 at 5:00 pm at Bell Hall 282, and another on October 2 at 6:00 pm at the Cookeville Performing Arts Center. Both events offer attendees the chance to interact with Billy Dean Anderson’s artwork and the film’s director and producer. The October 6 event will also feature a panel including Scott Rabideau, President/CEO of WCTE, Avery Hutchins, and Historian Dr. Troy Smith. These experts will offer insight into the making of the film, local film-making, Middle Tennessee historical narratives, and the impact of Anderson’s life. Kay Wood’s “Billy Dean Anderson: A Criminal Life” will be available for purchase from the author.

The documentary offers a glimpse into Anderson’s life, revealing his personal struggles, trauma, and creativity. The film explores broader themes of identity, rebellion, and the power of storytelling, set in rural Tennessee.

Here’s what to know about the event:

Tennessee Tech, Bell Hall 282, October 1, 5 PM, featuring Director Scott Rabideu and the artwork of Anderson.

Cookeville Performing Arts Center, October 2, 6:00 PM, panel and Q&A featuring: Director Scott Rabideu, President/CEO WCTE, Avery Hutchins, Historian Dr. Troy Smith, and Biographer Kay Wood. Featuring the artwork of Anderson.

For further information, contact: (931)372-3849

About University Archives

Archives and Special Collections resides in Angelo and Jennette Volpe Library on the first floor. The collection includes materials of legal, fiscal and historical significance to Tennessee Tech University and documents the history of the Upper Cumberland Region. The collection includes over 2,500 cubic feet of manuscripts, photographs, and archives from Tennessee Tech as well as surrounding people, businesses, and organizations of the Upper Cumberland. The collection contains books on the history and culture of the Upper Cumberland Region of Tennessee.
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