The Indianapolis Department of Public works will show an extended trailer for a documentary on its Greenlawn Cemetery work at two events in May.
The documentary, produced in collaboration with local filmmakers Studio Auteur, follows the city’s work to excavate a portion of a collection of historic cemeteries known as Greenlawn. The work was done in preparation for the construction of the Henry Street bridge.
According to a DPW press release, the documentary “offers an intimate look into the unfolding discoveries, (and) the scientific and ethical considerations guiding the excavation.”
The film, produced and directed by Indy filmmaker Jerald Harkness, also highlights the efforts of archaeologists, city employees and a community advisory group.
“These programs invite the community to engage directly with the film, ask questions and reflect on how this work contributes to a more complete understanding of Indianapolis’ past,” the press release said.
It may be a while before the full documentary is released. City officials expect the film to be completed after archaeologists have finished researching and analyzing the remains and artifacts that have been recovered. That work is ongoing and can be tracked on the project’s website.
If you go
Both events are free but require registration:
- 3:30 p.m. May 11 at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, 500 W. Washington St. As of April 21, few tickets were left. RSVP here.
- 6 p.m. May 12 at Indiana Landmarks Center, 1201 Central Ave. RSVP here.
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Emily Hopkins is a senior reporter at Mirror Indy. You can reach them by phone or Signal at 317-790-5268 or email at emily.hopkins@mirrorindy.org. Follow them on most social media @indyemapolis or on Bluesky @emilyhopkins.bsky.social.
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