Great Locomotive Chase to Re-Premiere at Strand

Kicking off Marietta’s of the Civil War on April 12 will be the glittering re-premiere of Fess Parker’s infamous movie The Great Locomotive Chase at .

In 1956, The Great Locomotive Chase had its Southern Premiere at The Strand Theatre, and with leadership from Marietta Mayor Thunder Tumlin, a committee was formed to bring back the magic of the night.

This event will commemorate the events that made Marietta a famous Civil War location with a gala, showing of the movie and special guests including a decedent of the historical group that started the chase: Andrew’s Raiders.

In April of 1862, Union Raiders (nicknamed Andrew’s Raiders) arrived in Marietta on a mission of sabotage that included stealing the locomotive "The General."

Captain William A. Fuller, conductor of the train, lead a tenacious band of Confederates in hot pursuit and the plot quickly fell apart. The Raiders quickly abandoned “The General” at Ringgold but were eventually captured. They later received the first medals of honor (some posthumously) bestowed by the United States government.

In attendance as one of the honored guests will be Gordon Smith, the great-grandson of Jacob Parrott, who was one of Andrew’s Raiders and the first recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor. The original medal, presented to Parrott by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863, resides at West Point. Smith will bring the 1904 version issued to Parrott when the medal was redesigned to be displayed at The Strand. Also in attendance will be author Russell Bonds and descendants of Capt. William fuller.

Schedule of Re-Premiere Events

6 p.m.: Red Carpet for Premiere Ticket Holders

6 to 7:30 p.m.: VIP Reception for Premiere Ticket Holders

7 to 7:30 p.m.: Civil War Music Organ Recital presented by Ron Carter

7:30 p.m.: Opening Remarks: Russell Bonds, author of "Stealing the General"

8 p.m.: The Great Locomotive Chase Movie

9:45 p.m.: Champagne and Dessert Reception

Tickets Prices: $75 for VIP (includes Red Carpet, VIP reception, movie and champagne reception); $35 General Admission (includes movie and champagne reception)

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