This segment from the KET series Kentucky Life includes an excerpt from the historical drama The Remarkable Clarks, about three famous siblings, George Rogers Clark, Lucy Clark Croghan, and William Clark, and interviews with the actors who portray them. The docudrama was written and performed by Mandy Dick (Lucy), Mel Hankla (George), and Bob Pinkerton (William). The excerpt spotlights George Rogers Clark and his remarkable accomplishments.
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Download OnlyThe Remarkable Clarks is an historical drama highlighting three famous siblings, George Rogers Clark, William Clark, and Lucy Clark Croghan. The docudrama is staged at Lucy’s house, where each of the siblings lived at various times throughout their lives. The video segment introduces viewers to each character in his or her own voice. Through the voices of William and Lucy, viewers learn more about George than if he were the only one telling his story.
Lucy recalls memories of the second eldest of the Clarks, George, who became a respected surveyor, lawyer, and clergyman. Lucy’s husband, William Croghan, was George’s surveying partner early in his career. Lucy reminisces about her brother’s storytelling abilities and how he told stories of his explorations of the American West that brought his travels to life for his siblings.
Next, the drama draws viewers into a storytelling session with George at his cabin overlooking the Ohio River. He recalls his exploits with William as the two brothers began their treacherous conquest at Corn Island, which later became Louisville, and eventually secured half a million acres with their army of men. Geroge led his militia to claim the Old Northwest Territory for the new United States. He defends the dangerous nature of his adventures by stating, “A country not worth protecting is not worth claiming.”
The third character in the drama, William, recalls George as an extremely intelligent man with amazing insight into people and situations. Although George is often in the shadow of his younger brother William (of the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition), William credits much of his success to his older brother, whom he idolized. According to his brother, George was an optimist who could hold his head high through the most difficult circumstances. He made it his business to know people and knew how to manipulate them into carrying out his plans. George did not like surprises and sent spies out ahead of him when facing the British, the Indians, and the French. His remarkable knowledge of people and situations and his intelligence made him a Revolutionary War hero. George’s ambition also led him to found Louisville, Ky., in 1778 at the age of 26.
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