The much anticipated Premiere of GONE: The Mystery of the DON Disaster will be held at the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath on March 5th at 6:30 pm. The film explores the puzzling disappearance in 1941 of the pleasure craft DON with 34 people on board. No wreckage was ever found and only 14 bodies were recovered. The event remains one of New England’s worst boating disasters.

GONE is Directed by Dave Wilkinson and Produced by Marilyn Taylor, both of Harpswell, and both MFVA members!  It is based on the book, “Tragedy in Casco Bay” by Associate Producer Stacy L.Welner, also of Harpswell.

The one-hour documentary, shot in high definition at the original Maine locations, is an intriguing reminder of life’s unpredictability. Through emotional interviews with relatives and eyewitnesses, the film provides a personal look at the 34 people who vanished. Powered by a soundtrack of original music, various theories are investigated and possible sites of the tragedy are explored. This new analysis uncovers possible answers to why the wreck of the DON was never found.

GONE made local history by rallying the people of Harpswell as well as Rumford and Mexico (where twenty-eight of the victims were from) into support for the film. Locals donated boats, antique cars, family pictures, food, people and time to help make the self-financed film possible.

The Premiere is a fundraiser for the Museum and the filmmakers. The screening will be followed by Q & A with the filmmakers. Tickets are $8 members; $10 non-members; $25 family.  For more information call 443-1316.