Jacksonville, AL – As originally reported by Jacksonville State University’s Seth Johnson, the latest documentary from Jax State’s Longleaf Studios, “Riding Through History: The Barber Collection,” is set to debut on Alabama Public Television on Thursday, April 25, at 8:00 p.m. The hour-long film delves into the fascinating narrative of George Barber and his renowned Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, hitting the airwaves just ahead of one of Barber Motorsports Park’s premier events, the IndyCar Grand Prix.
Acknowledged by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest motorcycle museum, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum has significantly impacted Alabama’s economy, amassing over $2.5 billion since its inception. Serving as a cultural epicenter and a magnet for motorsport enthusiasts globally, the museum is celebrated for its dynamic, family-friendly environment, hosting events like the IndyCar Grand Prix of Alabama and the annual Barber Vintage Festival, solidifying Alabama’s stature as a cultural hub for motorsports.
“Riding Through History: The Barber Collection” unravels the intricate narrative behind the ascent of Alabama’s most monumental philanthropic endeavor. The documentary traces the journey from George Barber’s modest beginnings, riding alongside his father on a milk truck, to his triumphs on the racetrack. Through captivating storytelling, the film vividly portrays a man propelled by his passion for motorsports, showcasing the metamorphosis of a Birmingham warehouse collection into an extraordinary museum featuring a cutting-edge racetrack, famously known as “The Alabama Roller Coaster,” which has attracted collaborations with prestigious automotive brands such as Porsche and Mercedes-Benz.
Beyond its role as a documentary, “Riding Through History: The Barber Collection” serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of one man and the enduring legacy he has forged.
Produced by Jacksonville State University’s Longleaf Studios in collaboration with Illuminate Films, the documentary underscores the university’s commitment to providing students with hands-on experience in the film industry. Housed in the Jax State College of Arts, Humanities, and Sciences, Longleaf Studios offers students the opportunity to engage in real-world productions alongside seasoned filmmakers, enriching their educational journey in the Bachelor of Arts in Film program, an interdisciplinary major comprising courses from the Theatre and Film, Art and Design, and English departments.
Director of Jax State’s Longleaf Studios and executive producer of the documentary, Seth Johnson, expressed the significance of the partnership with Alabama Public Television, stating, “Mr. Barber’s visionary journey turned reality is an inspirational narrative that resonates with all Alabamians, and Jax State is thrilled to share this captivating story with audiences across the state.”
For more information about Jacksonville State University and its offerings, visit www.jsu.edu, call 1-800-231-JAX1, or email jaxfacts@jsu.edu.
