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Trace The History of Germans From Russia

Download the Teacher's Guide in Acrobat

About The Documentary

A Four Year Odyssey

Receiving national and international recognition as an important documentary

Behind The Camera

An Interview With German Russian Author Ron Vossler

Comments from some of the hundreds of viewers who enjoyed this documentary

This documentary involved many creative and energetic professionals

Program Funding and Partnerships

Air Dates and Times

Other Web Sites of Interest

 

"A unique, important film saga"

Editorial from The Forum, Opinion Page
Tuesday, February 9, 1999, Fargo, ND
reprinted by permission

"An extraordinary documentary film about the Germans from Russia should be required viewing in every classroom in North Dakota.

The film is entitled, "The Germans from Russia: Children of the Steppe, Children of the Prairie." It traces the astonishing saga of a unique people from 16th century Germans and Russia to 20th century North America. It was produced by Prairie Public Broadcasting and the North Dakota State University Libraries.

Clearly, it's a product of scholarship, dedication and love. A capacity invited crowd last week at the premiere at the Plains Art Museum in Fargo was captivated by the skill of the filmmakers and power of the story.

Often the first reaction to "documentary" is ho-hum. Not this film.

The story follows the Germans from Russia from ancestral villages in the Old World to northern prairie farmsteads in the New World. It is told with humor and intelligence. It depicts with sensitivity the hardships and seemingly unendurable heartache the immigrants experienced through the generations.

And through it all, the film honors the tenacity, faith and work ethic of the Germans from Russia.

Producer Bob Dambach and his Prairie Public crew can be proud of a documentary work that surely will stand as the best film depiction of one of North Dakota's most important ethnic groups. Of special note is the wonderful script by Ron Vossler and original music by John Altenbernd.

Also, the determination of Michael Miller, bibliographer of the Germans from Russia Heritage Collection at NDSU, cannot be minimized. He can claim significant credit for the success of the effort to fund and produce the documentary.

The documentary will be aired this month on Prairie Public Television. But if you miss it, or you want it for your collection, the video can be ordered from Prairie Public in Fargo."

("Forum" editorials represent the opinion of "Forum" management and newspaper's Editorial Board.)

 

Collectors Edition
The Germans From Russia on Videotape

Order your copy of this programIf you missed seeing The Germans From Russia: Children of the Steppe, Children of the Prairie on Prairie Public Television, you still have a chance to enjoy this wonderful documentary. Order a videotape copy of The Germans From Russia for only $24.95. This wonderful Collectors' Edition includes the full documentary plus bonus footage not seen on television. Order online now or call 1-800-359-6900 to order your copies today.

 

 

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