America's National Monuments: Legacy of the Great Plains

Shot in high definition, this beautifully-lensed four-volume series, hosted by Bo Svenson and narrated by Alphonse Keasley, looks at 10 U.S. National Monuments that showcase the rich history and geologic diversity of America's Great Plains. Each half-hour disc is jam-packed with gorgeous on-location footage, archival photos, and informative interviews and commentary on historical, scientific, and cultural aspects of the various monuments. Disc one, Geologic Wonders of the Northern Plains, includes Wyoming's Devils Tower monolith, the Black Hills' Jewel Cave (23 stories underground!), and the Agate Fossil Beds of Nebraska; the second disc, Sioux Indian Wars, features Minnesota's Pipestone quarries and the Montana Little Bighorn Battle Site (upgraded to reflect both sides of the famous battle); the third disc, Manifest Destiny, looks at Nebraska's Scott's Bluff “islands in the sky,” and first recognized Homestead National Monument; and the final disc, The Southern Plains, highlights the Alibates Flint Quarry (Texas' only National Monument), New Mexico's extinct Capulin Volcano, and the ruins of Fort Union. Boasting extensive DVD extras—including a monument slideshow, teacher's guide, travel directions, historical documents, and more—this handsomely-produced set is a treat for armchair (and real-life) travelers, students, and history buffs. Highly recommended. Aud: I, J, H, P. (J. Williams-Wood)