Still Standing: The Stonewall Jackson Story

Review by Rusty Benson - AFA Journal, March 2008

  American history buffs of all ages, particularly those drawn to the Civil War period, will appreciate Still Standing: The Stonewall Jackson Story. The 48-minute documentary was produced and directed by award-winning filmmaker Ken Carpenter. It features narrative by noted historians as well as scenes from locations in Jackson’s life.
  Based on the book The Black Man’s Friend by Richard G. Williams, Jr., the film offers a portrait of contrasts – the rock-ribbed battlefield general on one hand, and the compassionate, principled Christian on the other. Special attention is focused on Jackson’s commitment to a Sunday School class he taught in Lexington, Virginia, which was composed of slave and free Blacks.
  Carpenter’s admiration for Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson is obvious as he retells the story from his tragic childhood through his death at age 39. The account includes the death of both parents; the harsh upbringing at the hands of an uncle; the close relationship between young Jackson and the slaves owned by his uncle; the friendship of Joseph Lightburn, who himself would become a Union general; two marriages; and Jackson’s military career.
  The producers honor the life of Jackson with this first-rate production and passionate presentation. Adults and children will find the documentary engaging, entertaining and educational. Still Standing is available on DVD from Franklin Springs Family Media (www.franklinsprings.com).