It was bright white limestone, shining up through clear water, that inspired Native Americans to name their sacred river “Waa-paah-siki” or the “Bright White.” French fur traders shortened the name to “Ouabache,” and the early settlers changed it again, to the name we know today: “Wabash.”

The Wabash is Indiana’s river. Its story of beauty and inspiration, of exploration and discovery, is the story of how we became who we are, both as a state…and as a nation.

That spirit of exploration and discovery lives on in “The Wabash: Life on the Bright White River,” a 500 mile, 19 county adventure, from the Ohio border to the Ohio River, to examine the delicate balance that exists between the people who live on the banks of the Wabash, and the Wabash River itself.

These people have stories to tell, and this locally-produced documentary has recorded them. It joins them at work and at play, and at prayer. Their stories give voice to the joys of calling the Wabash “home,” and bear witness to its sudden, devastating fury that can, and does, sweep their lives away.

Through stunning photography – on land, on river, and in the air – The Wabash: Life on the Bright White River captures the Wabash’s power and beauty. And although it is not be the same crystal clear Wabash it was in centuries past, it’s still a jewel of rich bio-diversity, one that people are working hard to protect.

Production of The Wabash: Life on the Bright White River made possible by The Wabash Valley Association, The Wabash River Heritage Corridor Commission, The Nature Conservancy, The Rivers Institute at Hanover College, The Hoosier Environmental Council and Hoosier Energy.