History buffs can get a sneak peek of the latest documentary by Ken Burns, The American Revolution, at 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, in the Garden City Community College’s Saffell Library.
The screening and discussion are free and open to the public, with limited seating. Refreshments provided. To reserve your seat for this event, please visit Eventbrite.com and search “American Revolution by Ken Burns Preview Event.”
GCCC is partnering with the Kansas 250 Commission and PBS to host one of four special statewide preview screenings of the documentary series.
Each preview event across Kansas will feature a 30-minute advance screening from the six-part PBS documentary series, followed by a live panel discussion with Kansas historians, educators, and civic leaders. The events are designed to spark statewide reflection on the founding ideals of the United States as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026.
The American Revolution series, directed by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt, and written by Geoffrey C. Ward, explores how the thirteen colonies rose in rebellion, fought for independence, and laid the foundation for a new nation. The story unfolds through a mosaic of voices — soldiers, Loyalists, Native and African Americans, women, and civilians — bringing depth and diversity to the narrative of America’s founding.
The series will premiere nationally on PBS and stream on PBS.org and the PBS App beginning November 16. Companion classroom and discussion resources will be available for educators and community organizations.
This preview screening is part of a statewide series of events organized by the Kansas 250 Commission in partnership with PBS stations KTWU, KPTS, and SHPTV, as well as Constitution Hall-Topeka, Washburn Law, Wichita State University, and Allen County Community College.
“These preview events give Kansans a first look at Ken Burns’ latest exploration of our shared history,” said Rep. Susan Estes, Chair of the Kansas 250 Commission, in a press release. “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, we invite every community to reflect on what the Revolution’s ideals mean today.”
For any questions about the event, please contact Dru Saddler, GCCC Associate Professor of Social Science, at dru.saddler@gcccks.edu.
About the Kansas 250 Commission
The Kansas 250 Commission leads statewide efforts to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States in 2026. Through partnerships with local governments, schools, museums, and civic organizations, the Commission promotes programs that honor the past, inspire civic engagement, and strengthen Kansas communities for the next generation. Learn more at www.America250KS.com.
