The Film
After exploring and researching the Hendricks Lake treasure legend as a hobby, we began to realize that there was a story to be told among the past attempts and searches, one that would show a unique cross section of East Texas history and lore. We believe it’s an incredible story that deserves to be told. We then decided to create a documentary film in order to showcase these points, alongside using the film as a vehicle to showcase our goal of finding the truth behind the legend.
Philip Waldrop tells of his father’s experiences searching Hendricks Lake in the 1950s.
We will focus narratively on our journey in exploring the legend, its history, and developments that may occur as we delve into the search ourselves. The film is the brainchild of three East Texas filmmakers who have teamed up with local historian Gary L. Pinkerton to convey the stories of sadness, struggle, and success surrounding the lake. What is one of the most incredible pieces of folklore in Texas history is finally receiving the attention it deserves. The team hopes to preserve the legend for future generations.
Filmed in stunning 4K quality, Sunken Silver will vividly display some of the most beautiful and haunting landscapes of the East Texas area.
We believe there is new information that can be gained from reviewing historical documents and speaking to those who were involved over the years. This information will be used in an attempt to prove or disprove each individual part of the legend, from Jean Laffite’s involvement to possible resting places for the treasure. We hope to find any and all truth surrounding the legend and separate fact from folklore to determine how the legend formed. The film will include interviews and insight from involved families, folklorists, and notable historians.
Jim Nonus, a highly notable Laffite historian, speaks with the Sunken Silver crew about the possibilities of Laffite treasures in East Texas.
Upon completion, the team plans to make the film accessible worldwide while also having several showings across the state. To make this possible, please consider donating to our film. As a fully independent film, your donations control our entire production, from the gas money that gets us on location to the funding that allows us to potentially rent equipment to search newly determined locations in hopes of revealing a conclusion.
Our funding is currently around 50% of our goal, and our cost breakdown is as follows: