HISTORICAL FILMS

Fredericksburg

Imagine a film about Fredericksburg where the Union army crosses the actual Rappahannock River on a real pontoon bridge of the 1860s; where the Confederates defend Marye’s Heights from the Sunken Road – behind the actual stone wall – while facing unending waves of Union troops in their correct winter gear and carrying the right battle flags. This is what you get in “Fredericksburg,” a joint project of Historical Films and the National Park Service. Shot on 35 mm motion picture film, and again featuring the unique narrative voice of James Earl Jones, this one-hour documentary was staged on the Ferry Farm, opposite Fredericksburg, and at the Sunken Road just below Brompton Manor. Early union attempts to bridge the river, while under fire, are brought to life, as well as the thrilling riverine assault and house-to-house fighting. The pontoon bridge was a two-year, 15-boat undertaking, which culminated in a 300-foot “film prop” in exacting detail and wonderful utility. As one participant put it “Crossing that bridge was like walking through history.” The same feelings of realism will be found in the Union assaults on Jackson’s flank, and the attacks on Marye’s Heights and throughout this intense, action-packed documentary on the Battle of Fredericksburg.

Narrated by James Earl Jones

Media Magic Productions, LLC