The day dawned dark and unusually cold for September. Tensions were high as the militia of civilian volunteers waited and watched. They were told to expect the 8,000 Confederates at any time. It had already been a week of standing guard, weapons at the ready, hearts racing with anticipation. When the call came for all available men to join together at Fort Mitchell to halt the advancing Confederates, there was no question in their minds that they would protect their homes and their beloved city. For many, Cincinnati was the land of opportunity providing endless jobs in manufacturing, shipping, and medicine. As the sixth largest American city, it was no wonder The South desired to capture this stronghold. The civilians were the last hope to keep Confederates from crossing into Union territory, from bringing war to the doorstep of their homes, and from the potential destruction of the Queen City. Suddenly, out of the darkness a commander calls out, “All men at the ready!” The volunteers gathered their rifles, took their positions, and looked at one another warily. The Siege of Cincinnati was underway.

The Greater Cincinnati region played a significant role in the United States Civil War, yet Cincinnati's Civil War history is largely overlooked in existing television and film productions. Few know the story of our city’s unique role in this conflict. September 2012 marks the 150th anniversary of The Siege of Cincinnati. In celebration of this milestone, Time Bonus Productions is producing a documentary for PBS to inform viewers about Cincinnati's involvement in the Civil War.

For more on Time Bonus Productions: www.timebonus.com