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NewsKPBS Public MediaOctober 27, 2026San Diego County

KPBS broadcasts documentary on Tangier Island and historical preservation

Photo: KPBS Public Media

KPBS premieres the documentary special 'Secrets of the Dead: Saving Tangier Island' on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026, highlighting the Chesapeake Bay island's history and current threats from rising sea levels. Additional broadcast encores are scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 5 and Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026.

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Why It Matters

Local viewers gain access to a broadcast and streaming special detailing the historical significance and environmental challenges facing Tangier Island.

Key Facts

  • KPBS premieres 'Secrets of the Dead: Saving Tangier Island' on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026, at 10 p.m. on KPBS TV.
  • An encore broadcast is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026, at 8 p.m. on KPBS 2.
  • A second encore broadcast will air Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026, at 10 p.m. on KPBS 2.
  • Tangier Island was pivotal in the War of 1812 and served as a location where Francis Scott Key was inspired to write 'The Star-Spangled Banner'.
  • Hundreds of self-emancipated men joined the British on Tangier Island during the War of 1812.
  • Rising sea levels currently threaten the survival of Tangier Island.
  • KPBS+ is a free streaming video app available on Roku, smart TVs, and mobile devices, locally curated for San Diego.
  • KPBS broadcasts four live TV channels: KPBS, KPBS 2, Create, and KPBS Kids 24/7, along with FNX (First Nation Experience).
  • KPBS Passport member benefits can be accessed on the KPBS+ app.

Who's Mentioned

PersonFrancis Scott Key“Inspired to write 'The Star-Spangled Banner'.”locationChesapeake Bay“Body of water where Tangier Island is located.”OrganizationKPBS+“New free streaming video app.”OrganizationCreate“TV channel broadcast by KPBS.”OrganizationKPBS Passport“Member benefit for streaming additional shows.”OrganizationKPBS Kids“24/7 TV channel broadcast by KPBS.”OrganizationFNX“First Nation Experience TV channel.”locationTangier Island“Island in the Chesapeake Bay facing rising sea levels and historical site.”OrganizationRoku“Streaming device platform.”OrganizationKPBS“Broadcaster of the documentary and streaming service provider in San Diego.”