Lumbermen began living in logging camps in the Maine woods in the early 1800s. They were the pioneers who created a successful self-contained working community in the woods, and on who's backs the state's economy and history were largely established. They were the innovators who established the method to cut and deliver hundreds of millions of board feet of lumber through thick forests and down crooked waterways, to the mills- using only horses, oxen, and manpower. They were unique in their character, ethics, morals, strength, and skills, and they symbolize Maine's gritty and resilient reputation. These are some of the most notable figures in Maine's history; yet their stories, personalities and significance are often overlooked by educators and historians. Up to the turn of the century, it was not a board of directors or a bureaucratic system that made the logging camp and industry successful, it was the skills, integrity, and personality of individuals. In The Blood illustrates and celebrates these individuals, their character and history. The audience is taken into his rugged environment- into the camp, onto the haul roads, landings and yards, rivers and lakes. In The Blood creates a vivid world and brings the lumberman's 19th century reality to life. The film/exhibit employ stories and descriptions told by the men themselves, thus offering an accurate, detailed, and seemingly personal experience- as though you are sitting in a camp listening to the men. You will forget, at least fleetingly, you are watching on a screen and not sitting in a camp, driving down a river, or rolling on the yard. The illustration that In The Blood provides, sheds a new light on the character, history, and importance of these legendary Maine men. The experience is a striking virtual journey into the 19th century Maine woods.
I've had the privilege of viewing this presentation through the filmmaker's new DVD available from Maine Historic Film. This is an impressive piece of history, enhanced greatly by McKane's music. I look forward to this live event.
Event Details
Dates
Start:
Saturday Jan 14, 2012 7:00 PM
End:
Saturday Jan 14, 2012 10:30 PM
Prices
$10.00
Location
SPACE Gallery (View Venue)
538 Congress St.
Portland, ME 04101
United States