Film historian Eric Grayson will screen Blazing Barriers on September 23 at 8 p.m. at the Garfield Park Arts Center. The 1937 film is about two young boys who are in trouble with the law and decide to hide out by joining the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC).  The experience turns out to teach them responsibility, even though it’s a struggle.  According to Grayson, “There’s an exciting climax set in a forest fire that was started by a crazed pyromaniac.” The boys are played by Frank Coglan, Jr., and Edward Arnold, Jr.

Prior to the screening, historian Glory-June Greiff will provide an introduction to the film and discuss the Civilian Conservation Corps. She will have on display some of her collection of photos and artifacts from the boys who were members.

For several years, Greiff has researched and written about the CCC, one of the earliest New Deal programs. “It left a huge legacy in Indiana, including the development of almost of all our state forests and about half of our current state parks.” She came to know many of those who served in Indiana in the 1930s. She has also chronicled and photographed a large number of buildings and sites associated with the work of the CCC.