CLAUDE— The historic Gem Theatre and the Texas Plains Trail Region invite the public to attend the premiere showing of the documentary video “Hamblen Drive: From Buffalo Trail to State Highway” at the historic Gem Theatre in Claude, Texas, on November 14, 2021, at 3 p.m., with a reception immediately following. The event is free of charge.
The Hamblen Drive documentary was produced by Neal Odom of Pioneer Business Development LLC.
Odom and Plains Trail Board president Vicki Hamblen, a descendant of the original builder of Hamblen Drive across Palo Duro Canyon, grew up in Happy, Texas, and both of their great-grandfathers, who were also friends, were early pioneer settlers in the Texas Panhandle. Hamblen in 2016 collaborated with the Texas Plains Trail Region to publish “The Rim to Rim Road,” and expanded history of the road first published by E. Hamblen.
The documentary covers many aspects of the history and heritage of the road crossing the canyon and the early life of those who settled the High Plains. “I think most people will be surprised by some of the information revealed in this documentary,” said Odom.
The Armstrong County Museum will also host an exhibit to complement the documentary with items pertaining to the heritage of the building of the road and Hamblen family. “My hope is that this documentary and exhibit inspires travelers and visitors who use the historic highway to realize the dream that came to fruition by perseverance and determination of this area’s pioneering spirit,” said Hamblen.
A reception immediately following the film screening will be held in the art gallery of the Armstrong County Museum adjacent to the Gem Theatre. For more information visit https://fb.me/e/1UCz1wUIn
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