Historic Beverly’s A Story of War in 28 Paintings.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Exhibition Seen Round the World!

1776 was more than a turning point; it marked the birth of a new world order. A bold line was drawn as ordinary people made extraordinary decisions, declaring independence from the most powerful empire on earth. To tell the story, Ken Burns and his team at Florentine has spent the past decade creating an ambitious document to explore the untold stories of the American Revolution.

How Historic Beverly’s Paintings Became a Part of the Documentary

In the Fall of 2022, the Burns’ team discovered eight war scenes in Historic Beverly’s online collection database they might want to include in the documentary. Several members of the production team visited the Cabot House to photograph the works. Abby Battis, the newly appointing Director of Historic Beverly, took the opportunity to share the entire collection that included 44 related artworks. After viewing the works virtually, Ken Burns was struck by the artistry and detail and was compelled to see them in person. He visited Historic Beverly where Abby and her team guided him through the collection. Ultimately 28 of these paintings were included in the six-part docuseries, more than any other collection in the documentary. Together with other artworks, reenactments and a compelling script, the documentary tells the broader story and complex realities of what was really a bloody, civil war.

About The Collection

The collection that’s featured prominently in both the six-part documentary and its companion textbook, was originally commissioned by Senator Henry Cabot Lodge for his two-volume book describing his interpretation of the American Revolution that was published in 1898. Their vivid imagery, executed in pen, ink, oil or engraving depicted dynamic battle scenes as well as iconic moments of resolve, leadership and heartbreaking sacrifice. The works quickly gained interest and several of them were exhibited to the public in Boston and New York. Many were reproduced in Scribner’s Magazine. In 1904, Susan Day Parker gifted the Beverly Historical Society with all 44 paintings. 28 of the 44 original paintings are on view at the Cabot House. Together they present a sweeping narrative of the American Revolution, putting the viewer at each battle and allowing them to make their own inferences about the revolution.

How Comm.Ink Helped

Our partnership with Historic Beverly spans nearly a decade. Our first project was a rebranding that included a name change and new logo. Over the years we have provided support to their marketing materials, capital campaigns, event marketing and social media. When Abby learned Historic Beverly’s paintings were going to be featured prominently in the American Revolution documentary and in a year-long exhibit at the Cabot House, she knew she needed to get out the word. Our first step was to first create a marketing plan. Through our research we were able to put together a budget to promote the exhibit and screening of the documentary at The Cabot over six nights. We created a marketing strategy to amplify the information and attract new audiences both geographically and demographically. During the process, we immediately realized they needed a new website. With tight timing, we quickly built a new WordPress website that could handle the ticketing, support a membership drive and encourage donations. Once the new site was launched, we collaborated with the client on promoting the exhibit.

We then created a distinct sub-brand for the exhibit to create easy indentification both on the website and marketing campaigns. Funded with a large grant from MOTT, we created and ran print campaigns in local and niche publications, sponsored radio spots on public radio, produced reels for Instagram, installed banners and signage at their property locations as well as tabling materials for visibility. The focus and investment has paid off. Visitorship is up over 700% and membership is 3 times what it was just one year ago.

What’s Next?

While the live screening of the documentary is over, the paintings can still be viewed at the Cabot House through Saturday, July 4th thanks to generous support from Ken Burns. It’s a chance to not only see the paintings but to also explore Beverly’s fascinating past that’s shaped our nation’s history. Tickets can be reserved, free of charge at www.HistoricBeverly.net.