This program is in partnership with the Marietta College History Department
Opening the Door West is a historical documentary that tells the tale of the first legal American settlement of the Northwest Territory. It details the beginning of the State of Ohio as well as the official start of our new nation’s westward expansion in 1788. The program was produced by Shelburne Films in association with WOUB-TV (PBS). It was shown on all the Ohio PBS stations as part of Ohio’s Bicentennial Celebration in 2003.
The story is told with the help of 11 historians and scholars, 15 filming locations, over 200 historical reenactors portraying the pioneers, Native Americans, rangers, and Virginians, 54 historical paintings and drawings, and numerous 3D computer images representing the early settlements. The story is divided into 11 chapters and features 25 musical selections, all of which were researched and based on authentic compositions from the era. The two-hour documentary was recognized with four prestigious film and video awards.
About our Presenters:
Ellen Shelburne
As the producer of OTDW, pre-production I was responsible for locating the various filming locations (in several states), finding, and communicating with the historical reenactors as well as the historians and scholars that we interviewed. I arranged permission for use of the historical paintings and drawings. During production, I wore several hats depending on the situation. My major responsibilities were making sure everyone and everything we needed for that days’ shoot was historically accurate and in place. I also made sure food was provided for the cast and crew, whether it was catered, paid for at a nearby restaurant, or me making sandwiches!! During post-production I coordinated with the film editor and music director. Of utmost importance was working with Bill Reynolds, our primary Historical Consultant to make sure every little detail was exactly correct.
Bill Reynolds is the collaborating speaker with me.
We could not have done this project without Bill’s input. At the time he was associated with Campus Martius Museum, and a member of the Brigade of the American Revolution – which is dedicated to recreating the life and times of the 18th Century. Bill helped me contact many of the historical reenactors, all of whom came with the appropriate clothing and gear of the period. He also helped us secure some of the historical sites we used as filming locations. All the reenactors told us they were proud to be a part of our production because the accuracy mattered as much to us as it did to them. As the creators, we felt that was the ultimate compliment.
Reservations are required. Space is limited. https://www.mariettacastle.org/events/thirdthursdayoct
This program is donation-based.