Knowledge Network has commissioned a four-part, hour-long historical documentary series from B.C.-based prodco Screen Siren Pictures.

The project, 1871 (working title), tells the early history of British Columbia and is based on historical texts from multiple perspectives, including Indigenous, British, European, Asian and American. The series is set to broadcast and stream in 2021 to coincide with the 150th anniversary of B.C.’s entry into Confederation. The government of B.C. has provided $1 million toward the project’s budget.

Screen Siren’s recent credits include the feature project Indian Horse, which it produced alongside Terminal City Pictures and Devonshire Productions. The company also recently received funding from Creative BC and Screen Ireland’s codevelopment fund through which it is developing the doc Children of the Church with Irish prodco Wildfire Films.

1871 is directed by Kevin Eastwood and written by Gelerah Derabi. Screen Siren’s Trish Dolman is executive producing alongside Eastwood, with Leena Minifie producing and researching. Jennifer Chiu is also a researcher on the series.

In addition to the commission, Knowledge Network has appointed filmmaker Aaron Woodley (pictured) as its director of network brands. Woodley, whose directing credits include Rhinoceros Eyes and Arctic Justice, will oversee Knowledge Network’s brands and promotion. The appointment comes one month after Murray Battle, director of original documentaries and brand, left the provincial broadcaster.