Welcome to Leith 2015

Introduction to Leith

Leith, North Dakota, is introduced as a ghost town with only 24 residents. The town is characterized by beautiful yet haunting landscapes, with farmers and ranchers cultivating land passed down through generations.

Cobb's Arrival

In May 2012, Craig Cobb, an outsider, arrives in Leith and starts purchasing properties. His initial presence raises questions among the locals, leading them to speculate about his intentions.

Property Acquisition

Over the course of several months, Cobb acquires twelve plots of land, including both vacant lots and houses in disrepair. This intensifies the concerns of the residents, who are uncertain about his plans for the town.

Speculations Among Residents

As Cobb's purchases continue, residents speculate that his motives are linked to the nearby Bakken oil fields. This speculation adds to the tension as the community wonders about the future of their town.

Revelation of Extremist Ideals

It becomes clear that Cobb has a track record of extremist beliefs, which raises alarms among the townspeople. His intentions shift from economic interests to a dangerous vision of a takeover of the local government.

Alliance with Like-Minded Individuals

As Cobb's plans become more apparent, other individuals who share his white separatist ideology begin to move into Leith. This influx of supporters complicates the situation for the local residents, who feel increasingly threatened.

Struggle for Autonomy

The film 'WELCOME TO LEITH' captures the community's struggle against Cobb's radical vision. It highlights the challenges they face as they fight to maintain their way of life in the face of extremist threats.

Cobb's Armed Patrol

As tensions reach a boiling point, Cobb instills fear among the locals by conducting armed patrols in the town. This provocative behavior leads to a significant escalation in conflict between him and the residents.

Cobb's Arrest

The conflict culminates in Cobb's arrest for through his armed patrols that created a climate of fear in the community. This pivotal moment marks a significant turning point in the ongoing struggle.

Residents' Relief

Cobb's arrest brings a sense of temporary relief to the residents of Leith. However, fears about what might happen if he were to return loom over the community, instilling ongoing anxiety.

Cobb's Release

After six months, Cobb is released from incarceration, which unsettles the residents. His return raises new concerns about the safety and future of Leith as he continues to pursue his extremist agenda.

Continued Tensions

Once released, Cobb's presence reignites tensions within the town. The community is forced to confront the realities of living in a town disrupted by extremist viewpoints, leading to feelings of vulnerability.

Documenting the Crisis

The events surrounding Cobb and the residents of Leith are documented over an intense eight-month period. This documentary serves as a window into the struggles faced by a small community against radical ideology.