Gold Star Mothers: 
Pilgrimage of Remembrance

For 6,000 women whose sons or husbands were lost in World War I and buried in foreign graves, a pilgrimage to see their loved one’s final resting place brought a measure of comfort. WILL-TV’s Gold Star Mothers: Pilgrimage of Remembrance examines these government-funded trips during the 1930s, a period when mothers reigned supreme in the eyes of the nation. The one-hour program intertwines the history of the pilgrimages and war with the social history of motherhood. For more information
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The Song and the Slogan

Celebrating the life and work of poet Carl Sandburg, this performance documentary features a musical adaptation of the poet’s Prairie performed in a natural prairie setting. Opera star Jerry Hadley, who performs the work along with an ensemble of musicians, commissioned composer Daniel Steven Crafts to write the new chamber work with voice. Produced by Tim Hartin. For more information

Vietnam: Soldiers' Stories

Illinois and Indiana Vietnam veterans reflect on their war experiences 25 years after the end of the war, talking about how those experiences shaped who they are today. The one-hour documentary features powerful stories woven with combat footage. Produced by Tim Hartin

Mr. Shimkus Goes to Washington

A one hour documentary that traces the impact of political life on a freshman congressman and his family from Illinois' historic 20th Congressional District. Distributed by PBS. Produced by Tim Hartin.

Walter Burley Griffin: In His Own Right

A one-hour, Emmy award winning documentary that profiles the life and work of Walter Burley Griffin, an American architect who designed buildings and imagined cities. Distributed by PBS+. Produced by Alison Davis

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Tarahumara: Pillars of the World

A one hour documentary that examines an indigenous culture under stress from the modern forces of change. Filmed on location in Mexico's Copper Canyon region. Distributed by CEN. Produced by Jack Kelly

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Against The Wind

This award-winning documentary tells the compelling story of Jean Driscoll's attempt to become the first athlete to win seven consecutive Boston Marathons. Following Driscoll as she battles her way back from injury, the program examines her mental and physical preparation, and the creation of the racing chair that contributed to her victory. Distributed by CEN. Produced by Alison Davis

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A one hour documentary examining American knowledge of the events which led to the Holocaust; the extent of coverage in local newspapers, and the public reaction and response. Distributed by CEN. Produced by Jack Kelly

A one hour documentary about an archaeological excavation of a 3rd century "domus" on the Palatine Hill in Rome, Italy. Distributed through the American Program Service. Produced by Jack Kelly

This half-hour documentary chronicles the Mahomet-Seymour Marching Bulldogs' hard work and preparation for their appearance in the Rose Bowl Parade. Told in a series of vignettes that illustrate the dedication and struggle, the programs captures these talented kids. Distributed by CEN. Produced by Tim Hartin

Ever wonder how tornadoes are formed or why the Midwest is a target for them? AM-580 meteorologist Ed Kieser traces the history and impact of tornadoes on central Illinois in this hour-long documentary. Produced by Jack Kelly (Not available for sale. Eligible libraries and schools may receive a free copy. Call Kate Dobrovolny at 217-333-1070 for more information.)

This one-hour documentary looks at the life of black baseball players who barnstormed America in the 1950s as members of the Negro Baseball League. Distributed by CEN. Produced by Alison Davis & Rob Schober

This sensitive documentary explores the life and work of amateur photograph Frank Sadorus who captured rural life at the turn of the century on film. Sadorus, who was committed to the state mental institution by his family, was a self-taught photographer yet his pictures provide a stunning realism. Produced by Jeff Cunningham

In 1964, Shozo Sato brought traditional Japanese art forms of tea ceremony, flower arranging, black ink painting and Kabuki theater to America as a visiting professor in both Theater and Art and Design at the University of Illinois. The remarkable career and philosophy of Shozo Sato is the subject of this half-hour documentary. It is the story of a man determined to bridge cultural gaps through art. Distributed by CEN. Produced by Leslie Epperson

For nearly 75 years, the Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul, IL played a vital role in the life of central Illinois, and in the history of America's Air Force. This one-hour documentary examines the history and impact of the base closing in 1990. Produced by Steve Parker