Where was The Birth of a Nation filmed?
1915
City Locations
Calexico (USA), Hollywood Hills (USA), Fullerton (USA), Ojai (USA), Whittier (USA), Burbank (USA), Los Angeles (USA), Del Monte (USA), Burbank (USA), Jungleland (USA), Antelope Valley (USA)
Location Types
Film Studio, Unique, Unusual
Location Styles
Retro, Dated
About The Birth of a Nation
The Birth of a Nation is a groundbreaking film directed by D.W. Griffith and released in 1915. It is celebrated for its technical innovations and criticized for its racially problematic content. The movie's plot is set during the American Civil War and Reconstruction era, centering around two families: the Stonemans from the North and the Camerons from the South.
The story begins with the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln by John Wilkes Booth. As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the war, the film explores the friendship between the two families. The Stoneman brothers, Phil and Tod, visit their Southern friends, the Cameron family, at their plantation in South Carolina.
As the families initially bask in a harmonious relationship, tensions escalate when the Camerons align themselves with the Ku Klux Klan. They intended to safeguard their neighborhood against what they perceived as lawlessness and corruption during Reconstruction. However, the film portrays the Klan as heroic figures, a depiction that has sparked controversy throughout the years.
Despite the film's historical inaccuracies and problematic portrayal of race, The Birth of a Nation introduced several groundbreaking techniques to filmmaking. Director D.W. Griffith pioneered cross-cutting, close-ups, and panoramic shots to heighten the dramatic impact. It was also one of the first feature-length films, running for over three hours.
The Birth of a Nation holds a significant place in cinematic history, but it is crucial to recognize and address the film's controversial elements while considering its historical context.
The Birth of a Nation Locations
The production of The Birth of a Nation (1915) primarily happened in California, USA. Most scenes came to life around Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills Cemetery, located at 6300 Forest Lawn Drive in Burbank, which served as a backdrop for several pivotal moments in the film. This area offers a picturesque view with its rolling hills and serene surroundings.
The region developed into a cemetery but still retains its natural beauty. Calexico, California, provided the backdrop for some scenes. Although the locations have changed, visiting these places can offer a sense of historical significance and allow enthusiasts to connect with the film's legacy.
While the filming locations for The Birth of a Nation may not offer specific attractions or landmarks related to the film, they hold historical value. They are worth exploring for cinephiles and history buffs. The Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills Cemetery serves as a serene and peaceful location for visitors, providing an opportunity to reflect on the film's impact on American cinema.
Exploring the surrounding areas can also provide insights into the cultural and historical context of the depicted period. However, note that the film's content received criticism due to its racial portrayals, so visiting these locations should be approached with sensitivity and a critical understanding of the film's historical context.
Fun Facts:
Initially named The Clansman after Thomas Dixon Jr.'s novel, The Birth of a Nation underwent a title change to dissociate itself from the Ku Klux Klan. Despite the film's portrayal of the organization in a positive manner, the decision was to avoid any potential association.
The Battle of Petersburg scene in The Birth of a Nation
San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles, California, USA
The Battle of Petersburg scene from The Birth of a Nation (1915) showcases the rise of young Confederate soldier Ben Cameron (Henry B. Walthall) as he leads a final charge during the Siege of Petersburg. This scene is known for its extraordinary ferocity and intensity, capturing the clash between the Confederate and Union armies.
The film depicts the challenging conditions the retreating Confederate soldiers faced, including a close-up shot of parched corn kernels in a pan, symbolizing their lack of food. The scene aims to portray the heroism and sacrifice of the Confederate side during the American Civil War.
The San Fernando Valley, nestled within Los Angeles County, California, is an energetic and thriving urban valley renowned for its contributions to the entertainment industry. A hub for major movie studios, it magnetizes celebrities and provides a fascinating peek behind Hollywood's curtain. Boasting diverse neighborhoods and immense cultural significance, the San Fernando Valley beckons as a vibrant and ever-evolving region, inviting exploration and discovery.
To get to the San Fernando Valley, you have several transportation options. Here are some ways to reach the region:
Subway, Bus, or Car: If you're coming from Los Angeles, you can take the subway or a bus to reach the San Fernando Valley. The Civic Center and Line 152 bus are some options. Alternatively, you can drive there by car.
Train: The nearest train station to the San Fernando Valley is the Sylmar/San Fernando Metrolink station. It's about a 14-minute walk away from the valley.
Phil visits the Cameron family scene in The Birth of a Nation
Del Monte, Monterey, CA 93940, USA
Phil Stoneman (Elmer Clifton) visits the Cameron family on their plantation. As he strolls through the estate, the scene vividly captures the striking contrast between the serene Southern backdrop and the imminent turmoil of the approaching Civil War. This scene is a captivating part of the monumental drama film helmed by the renowned director D.W. Griffith, featuring the talented Lillian Gish in a starring role.
Nestled in Monterey, California, Del Monte is a district with a captivating history and adorned with picturesque beauty. Formerly an independent unincorporated community, Del Monte is integral to Monterey County.
The enchanting area boasts remarkable landmarks, including the renowned Del Monte Shopping Center, the elegant Hotel Del Monte, and the esteemed Del Monte Aviation. With its proximity to popular attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Pebble Beach, Del Monte offers a delightful fusion of shopping, leisure, and the wonders of nature.
Multiple transportation options are available to reach Del Monte in Monterey. You can drive there using GPS or online maps if you have your vehicle. Alternatively, you can rely on Monterey's dependable public bus system, which offers convenient schedules and routes to get you to your destination.
Gus chasing Flora scene in The Birth of a Nation
San Bernardino National Forest, Big Bear, CA 92314, United States
Gus (Walter Long) pursues Flora (Mae Marsh) through Big Bear Valley. This scene showcases the natural beauty of the forest as Flora jumps to her death from the cliffs above Big Bear Lake. The San Bernardino National Forest provided a picturesque backdrop for this iconic film.
The San Bernardino National Forest is a stunning natural treasure in Southern California. It encompasses over 823,816 acres, offering fire restrictions in place, and recreational shooting is temporarily prohibited. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the forest's 38 camping trails, including the Marion Mountain to San hike. The forest is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Here are some ways to reach the San Bernardino National Forest:
Driving: You can drive to the San Bernardino National Forest by using highways and roads that lead to the forest. The Rim of the World National Scenic Byway is a popular route that starts on Highway 15 in the Cajon Pass and follows Highway 138, 18, and 38 for 107 miles.
Public Transportation: If you prefer public transportation, take a train from Los Angeles Union Station to San Bernardino National Forest. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi from San Bernardino to the forest.
Conclusion
The Birth of a Nation was a groundbreaking film released in 1915. It tells the story of the Civil War and its aftermath, focusing on themes of racism and the Ku Klux Klan. The movie was filmed in various locations, showcasing the versatility of its production.
The original filming happened in Calexico, California, and Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills in Los Angeles. The iconic Civil War battle scenes were shot in the present location of Forest Lawn Memorial Park in the Hollywood Hills. The Lasky Ranch in Los Angeles and the Flagler estate in Mamaroneck's Edgewater Point, Westchester, also served as filming locations.
The production of the 2016 remake of The Birth of a Nation happened in Savannah, Georgia, including the Myrtle Grove Plantation — this modern adaptation aimed to shed light on the historical events depicted in the original film.
The Birth of a Nation is an extraordinary cinematic accomplishment that fearlessly addresses crucial social matters. By incorporating diverse filming locations, the film attains greater depth and authenticity, capturing the dynamic narrative.