BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--This year, 2011, marks the 150th anniversary of the start of The American Civil War, one of the most defining events in our nation’s history. The First Battle of Manassas, or Bull Run, was fought on July 21, 1861 and is considered the first major battle of a war which would last until April 9, 1865.
Beginning July 21, four days of special events hosted by a variety of Journey Through Hallowed Ground National Heritage Area partners will mark the War’s start and bring into the national spotlight a four-year commemoration that will also denote the largest emancipation of slaves in history. The weekend is expected to draw dignitaries, celebrities, historians and an estimated 30,000 spectators.
The new WBHEG and JTHGP venture will help people worldwide share in our national heritage and encourage them to experience it for themselves.
Ceremonies begin Thursday morning, 7/21, at the Manassas National Battlefield Park with introductions by elected officials and others (to be announced).
On Friday 7/22, WBHEG and JTHGP will host the theatrical premiere of WBHEG’s new version of Ronald F. Maxwell’s definitive epic Civil War film, Gods and Generals Extended Director’s Cut, at the 1170-seat Hylton Center for the Performing Arts in Manassas. Maxwell will introduce the film, new footage, and video segments on embracing the JTHG National Heritage Area and sharing it with future generations. He will also lead a panel with the film’s stars and historical advisers. (Date and location of, and talent attending theatrical premiere subject to change, please visit www.HallowedGround.org. for updated information).
Gods and Generals Extended Director’s Cut will debut on Blu-ray May 24, with the Blu-ray debut of Maxwell’s earlier Gettysburg Director’s Cut. Each will be packaged in a 2-disc, 48-page Blu-ray Book versions with photographs, bios, timeline, production notes, maps and more.
The newest cuts of the two epic films arrive together July 5 in a double-wide, must-own numbered Limited Collector’s Edition, beautifully gift-boxed with extensive new extras and memorabilia, to be announced. Included is a 32-page excerpt from TIME’s forthcoming book, TIME The Civil War: An Illustrated History. For more information, visit www.civilwarmovies150.com.