Where Was the Film 'Glory' Filmed?

The 1989 historical drama film Glory directed by Edward Zwick is based on the true story of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment during the American Civil War. The film was set in locations with historical significance to the events depicted, such as Antietam, Maryland, Readville, Massachusetts, and near Fort Wagner, South Carolina. However, the actual filming took place mostly in and around Savannah, Georgia, and on the Georgia coast, which presents an interesting contrast between the actual locations and the film's production.

Setting the Stage: Battle of Antietam

The film opens with a sequence depicting the Battle of Antietam, which was staged near McDonough, approximately southeast of Atlanta, Georgia. The scale of this battle scene was impressive, involving over 11,000 volunteers participating in a reenactment. This was a massive production, making it look like a real battle. Interestingly, the reenactment was not held in Gettysburg National Military Park due to concerns about extensive damage that such reenactments might cause. Therefore, this epic scene was staged on farmland about 5 miles to the south of the park.

Colonel Shaw's Home: Mercer Williams House

A historic home, the Mercer Williams House, served as the setting for the home of Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, rightfully portrayed by Matthew Broderick in the film. Initially, the house was closed to the public, but it is now open for tours, providing visitors with an opportunity to step back in time and explore the world of the 19th-century American military.

Organizing and Training the Regiment in Massachusetts

Another significant location in the film is Massachusetts, where the 54th regiment was organized. This began in Boston, Massachusetts, and extended to Readville, a neighborhood in Boston where the black volunteers who would eventually join the 54th were recruited.

Travelling Through the South

The film then follows the regiment’s journey through the South. After their training, they travel to South Carolina where the bulk of the dramatic battle scenes take place. Fort Wagner, near Charleston, South Carolina, is where the film’s climactic battle occurs, bringing the story to a historically accurate and emotionally charged conclusion.

Conclusion and Legacy

The film Glory not only tells a compelling story of courage and sacrifice but also provides a fascinating insight into the behind-the-scenes production of a major historical drama. The decision to film in locations with a strong historical connection, yet slightly removed from the exact sites depicted in the story, is a testament to the filmmakers' dedication to authenticity and storytelling. The scenes shot in and around Savannah, Georgia, and on the Georgia coast played a significant role in bringing the story to life, making the experience unforgettable for audiences and historians alike.

For those interested in uncovering the locations and history of the film Glory, exploring places like the Mercer Williams House in Savannah and the site of the Battle of Antietam in Georgia can provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the film's significance.