PBS Michiana – WNIT is producing a documentary on the history of the St. Joseph River, which will highlight a collaborative effort with communities along the River to “Celebrate the St. Joe” with a summer full of events and activities culminating with a preview of the documentary on Aug. 28, prior to it airing on WNIT on Sep. 9.

From furs and food to transportation, power, and recreation, the river serves a central role in the lives of those who call its banks home.  To this day, its waters provide for Native People. In the past, those waters attracted global powers to the region and later, powered the industries that built the cities of today.

WNIT tells the story of the St. Joseph River, including the people, history, and life along this storied river from Hillsdale to Lake Michigan. We celebrate how it has shaped the region and continues to be an integral part of our community.  We hope this documentary will accelerate the renewed appreciation for the St. Joseph River and inspire people to preserve and cherish the river for future generations.

Then, Now and Always…The St. Joseph River Story, a WNIT documentary, will be previewed at Celebrate the St. Joe themed community events up and down the river on Saturday, August 28.  A complete listing of events and celebrations as well as a trailer of the documentary, is available at www.wnit.org/celebratethestjoe

The documentary Then, Now and Always…The St. Joseph River Story premieres on PBS Michiana – WNIT Thursday, Sep. 9, at 8 p.m.