Magic, memories of ‘Raintree’ began
60 years ago this summer in Danville

In 1956, in what was said to be the greatest Civil War motion picture since “Gone with the Wind,” Hollywood began filming in Danville.

“Raintree County” had a group of A-list actors and no expense was being spared as Metro Goldwyn Mayer studio spent seven years planning what was to be the most expensive domestic motion picture ever made. Some 10,000 miles of locations in 16 states were viewed and considered and, thanks to the efforts of the late Eben Henson (Pioneer Playhouse), Danville was chosen as the key location.

About 45 percent of the filming was done in Danville and surrounding areas beginning in August and continuing into September. Other Kentucky film locations were in Paducah and McCracken County.

MGM sent 15,000 pounds of props, 3,500 costumes, 216 tons of equipment and 135 crewmembers to Danville in addition to the all-star cast. Three hundred extras from Boyle County and Central Kentucky also were utilized and many other actors were recruited for the filming of 1,000 soldiers in the major Civil War battle scene.

The cast starred a 24-year-old actress who would portray New Orleans beauty Susanna Drake. The male lead was Montgomery Clift and co-stars were Eva Marie Saint, Lee Marvin, Agnes Moorehead, Nigel Patrick, Rod Taylor, Walter Abel and DeForest Kelley.

The role of Susanna Drake earned an Academy Award nomination for Elizabeth Taylor, shown in the photo on The Kentucky Civil War Bugle home page. She wore a 30-pound dress in 100-degree heat during the filming and, inadvertently, brought filming of the Battle of Chickamauga to a screeching halt by walking past Union soldiers in Capri pants.

Unfortunately, the three-hour film, costing then a considerable $6-million, was a financial bust. But, after 60 years this summer, the magic and memories of  “Raintree County” remain in Danville.