Kirtland Community College Hosts Exclusive Advance Screening of Ken Burns’ The American Revolution

Kirtland Community College is delighted to announce a special community event in partnership with WCMU Public Media and the League of Women Voters of Grand Traverse Area/Crawford County Unit (LMV). Together, these organizations will present an exclusive advance screeningof Ken Burns’ highly anticipated PBS documentary series, The American Revolution, on Tuesday, November 11, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., at Kirtland Community College’s Grayling Campus located at 4800 W. Four Mile Rd.

“I taught history at Kirtland for over twenty years before becoming an administrator, so I know how much understanding America’s past helps us to understand our present,” said Kirtland’s Vice President of Academic Affairs John Thiel. “I’m thrilled that Kirtland gets to host such an important event, and the fact that it falls on Veterans Day makes it even more timely.”

The event will feature a 45-minute curated preview drawn from the six-part, twelve-hour documentary series, which will premiere nationwide on PBS on November 16. This free event is open to the public, and complimentary snacks and beverages will be provided. Following the screening, John Thiel, Kirtland’s Vice President of Academic Affairs and former History and Humanities professor, will lead a live Q&A session, offering attendees a chance to ask questions about the historical perspectives showcased in the screening.

“The League of Women Voters of Crawford County is pleased to be partnering with Kirtland Community College once again and with WCMU in presenting this important and timely event. The League shares the importance of all of us understanding the roots of OUR democracy. In fact, the League’s mission is to Empower Voters and Defend Democracy and we have been doings this for 105 years,” said Christina Schlitt, Crawford County LMV.

The screening reflects Kirtland’s ongoing commitment to educational engagement, and community partnership. As part of its mission to foster lifelong learning, Kirtland collaborates with regional organizations to host thought-provoking public events that encourage discussion, civic awareness, and connection.

For decades, filmmaker Ken Burns has captivated audiences through his signature documentary storytelling, weaving together archival materials, expert interviews, and narration to illuminate pivotal moments in American history. The American Revolution continues this legacy, examining the complexities, ideals, and enduring impact of the Revolutionary era.

“We’re proud to bring this special preview to our viewers,” said Renee Mahon, Marketing Manager at WCMU Public Media. “At WCMU, we’re dedicated to creating spaces where people can come together to learn, reflect, and connect through the power of public media. Partnering with Kirtland Community College and the League of Women Voters for this event allows us to extend that mission by sharing stories that explore the very roots of our democracy.”

An expansive look at the virtues and contradictions of the war and the birth of the United States of America, the film follows dozens of figures from a wide variety of backgrounds. Viewers will experience the war through the memories of the men and women who experienced it: the rank-and-file Continental soldiers and American militiamen (some of them teenagers), Patriot political and military leaders, British Army officers, American Loyalists, Native soldiers and civilians, enslaved and free African Americans, German soldiers in the British service, French and Spanish allies, and various civilians living in North America, Loyalist as well as Patriot, including many made refugees by the war.

The American Revolution was a war for independence, a civil war, and a world war. It impacted millions – from Canada to the Caribbean and beyond. Few escaped its violence. At one time or another, the British Army occupied all the major population centers in the United States – including New York City for more than seven years.

The six-part series delves into the social, political, and philosophical currents of the era—highlighting the Revolution’s contradictions, sacrifices, and enduring legacy. From the battlefield to the political assembly, from enslaved people to Indigenous nations, the documentary presents a multifaceted portrait of a defining moment in world history.

Attendees are encouraged to share the event with friends, colleagues, and members of local organizations. Together, Kirtland Community College, WCMU Public Media, and the League of Women Voters of Grand Traverse Area invite all residents to join this evening of history, reflection, and community connection.

About WCMU Public Media

With four television transmitters and eight radio transmitters, WCMU Public Media serves more than 3 million Michiganders with trusted news, educational programming, and community events that inspire lifelong learning. As a PBS and NPR member station, based on the campus of Central Michigan University, WCMU connects communities through award-winning, local storytelling and national programming that informs, enriches, and entertains. Through partnerships with community partners, WCMU helps bring high-quality cultural and educational experiences directly to Michigan residents. Learn more at wcmu.org.

About League of Women Voters of Grand Traverse Area/Crawford County Unit

The LMV is pleased to partner in many events with Kirtland Community College from voter registration drives to candidate forums. The LMV and Kirtland share the mutual goal of education by reaching out to our communities to provide opportunities for voters to become informed about candidates and issues before they cast their ballots. The League of Women Voters of Crawford County is in a growth phase and sharing topical presentations such as the PBS The American Revolution is an effort for both organizations to elevate the work they do and to seek support to continue.

About Kirtland Community College

Kirtland Community College has been inspiring excellence for over 50 years and offers courses in Grayling, Gaylord, and online. Our mission at Kirtland is to provide innovative educational opportunities to enhance student lives and build stronger communities. Through our offered educational programs, we believe Kirtland will be the first choice for learner-centered education guiding students and communities toward success. For more information about Kirtland Community College, visit Kirtland.edu, or call (989) 275-5000.