Elgin: Behind the Walls by Sam J. Olson, production by River Bluff Studios tells the story of one of the oldest state mental hospitals in Illinois. Dating back to 1872, the state hospital has had it's share of success and controversy, and this new documentary covers it's rich history in historic Elgin, Illinois. Located in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago, the Elgin Mental Health Center has a story to tell.

A note from the director: 

My inspiration for this project is very similar to many of my other short films and self-funded documentaries- a love for Elgin history. The Elgin Mental Health Center has long been one of those visual landmarks on the edge of Elgin that always draws attention as you drive by. The prison-like fencing, the military-looking barracks, the strange circular building, and the old power plant smoke stacks still puffing out black smoke. It's design and architecture resembles nothing of a modern behavioral or mental hospital of today. It's origination of 1872 has led to many "modern" changes over the 150+ years, but that is history often left unsaid. It's original cemetery hidden in the trees of a municipal golf course and sports complex. Such a curious landmark, with a storied past. 

I am looking for crowdfunding for this project for the first time ever in my filmmaking days. I have grown quite the reputation and recognition in my hometown of Elgin, which has inspired me to continue the work of so many incredible historians of the city's past that are no longer with us. Until now, I have always been self-funded in my projects. But a story such as this is complicated, long, and substantial. The ability to create a documentary of this scale requires additional hands, something I can not fund on my own.

Growing up, I quickly fell in love with the history of Elgin. It's because of the many historians and public personas in this city that inspired me to begin a new generation of hometown pride, of preservation, of love for our growing city. Your contribution helps continue to build on that inspiration- so that I can become that inspiring individual for kids just beginning to learn about their hometown.