Director
Selection of hand-painted films made from serpentine dance performances between 1895 and 1907, with original music by Carol Robinson. Produced for ARTE / Lobster Films.
Director
Fascinating 12-minute documentary from Edison features a man in a small boat being pulled (from a horse on shore) down the Potomac river. Starting in Cumberland, MD and going to Washington, DC, this short follows the man who pretty much just sees the various parts along the river. For a film from 1917, this isn't too impressive as the camera-work isn't anything special and you could say the story was very weak considering what other types of movies were being released at this time.
Director
New York City police catch thieves and stop runaway horses.
Director of Photography
Frankenstein, un joven médico, trata de crear al ser humano perfecto y, sin intención, termina creando un monstruo. Primera versión cinematográfica de la novela de Mary Shelley.
Assistant Director
Una de las primeras películas americanas que muestra un montaje paralelo, narrando el rescate de una mujer atrapada en un edificio en llamas. (FILMAFFINITY)
The Fire Chief
Una de las primeras películas americanas que muestra un montaje paralelo, narrando el rescate de una mujer atrapada en un edificio en llamas. (FILMAFFINITY)
Director
Here we present to the audience a subject taken near Mt. Golden, on which will thoroughly please all who are lovers of scenery. One minute you are running straight to the mountain of rock, and then when you expect to be dashed into it, suddenly turn and skirt the very side of this mountain over trestles, bridges, and finally stop where in front of you can be seen Mt. Hector at a distance of about twelve miles. In this film we present a most exciting ride on the engine of a Canadian Pacific R. R. train, and also afford the audience a most beautiful panoramic view.
Farmer
Porter's sequential continuity editing links several shots to form a narrative of the famous fairy tale story of Jack and his magic beanstalk. Borrowing on cinematographic methods reminiscent of 'Georges Melies' , Porter uses animation, double exposure, and trick photography to illustrate the fairy's apparitions, Jack's dream, and the fast growing beanstalk.
Production Assistant
This early docudrama shows Auburn Prison and recreates the electrocution of Leon Czolgosz, the assassin of President McKinley of the United States.
Director
The President is seen on the reviewing stand at the Stadium, escorted by President Milburn, of the Pan-American Exposition...
Director
This is a great historical event. Our cameras were stationed in the center of the Esplanade looking toward the Main Approach to the Pan-American Exposition...
Director
Two bad boys enter the kitchen. One climbs to the kitchen table and takes down the old lamp, the other goes to the flour barrel and scoops out some flour, pouring it into the chimney until it is filled to the top. The lamp is then replaced in the bracket. Grandma enters, scratches a match, removes the lamp chimney, when the flour falls upon her head. It sticks in her hair and fills her eyes, but this is where she turns the tables.
Director
Shows a wild charge of Mounted Boer up a steep hill. The action of the picture is spirited and photographically it is an excellent film. The opening scene shows a bleak hillside with the Boer cavalry in the distance, galloping rapidly to the front. They cross the ridge just as the film ends.
Director
“A marvelously clear picture taken from the top of the elevator of the Eiffel Tower during going up and coming down of the car. This wonderful tower is 1,000 feet in height, and the picture produces a most sensational effect. As the camera leaves the ground and rises to the top of the tower, the enormous white city opens out to the view of the astonished spectator. Arriving at the top of the tower, a bird's eye view of the Exposition looking toward the Trocadero, and also toward the Palace of Electricity, is made, and the camera begins its descent. The entire trip is shown on a 200-foot film. 30.00. We furnish the ascent in 125 foot film.” (Edison film catalog)
Director
This panoramic scene is taken from a Seine steamboat and gives a rapid view of the banks of the river...
Director
The single camera position is from the top of a building identified as the Trocadero Palace; The camera is pointed toward the Eiffel Tower. The film shows only up to the first arch of the Eiffel Tower.
Director
Shows all the prominent buildings on this thoroughfare, ending with a close view of the base of the Eiffel Tower, with the Trocadero Palace in the background.
Director
James White, the Edison Company's main filmmaker at the time, realized a burst of creativity during his visit to the 1900 Paris Exposition. It's uncertain who his cameraman was for this journey, but historian Charles Musser suggests that it might've been Alfred C. Abadie. In their Paris Exposition films, they introduced tilting (see 'Panorama of Eiffel Tower') and, although panning and panoramas had already been around for a while, they introduced some novel functions for them.
Director
Near the main entrance. Hundreds of carriages and characteristic Parisian busses are passing.
Director
While our photographers were crossing the Atlantic Ocean a most wonderful and sensational picture was secured, showing a storm at sea. The picture was secured by lashing the camera to the after bridge of the Kaiserine Maria Theresa, of the North German Lloyd Line, during one of its roughest voyages. The most wonderful storm picture ever photographed. Taken at great risk. (Edison Films, 1901)
Director
A crew of railroad workmen are busy along the tracks of the Lehigh Valley Railroad. When the Black Diamond Express appears in the distance, they begin to pull back from the rails to clear the way. As the train approaches their work site, some of them begin to wave at it.
Director
“One of the most interesting places in the vicinity of Niagara Falls is the Whirlpool Rapids, where the immense volume of water which passes from the Falls, speeds along through its rocky and tortuous passage towards the ocean. The camera in securing this picture was placed at the front end of a train ascending the grade at a very rapid rate of speed. The combined motion of the train in one direction and the water in the opposite direction, the latter impeded and interrupted in its course by the rocky path through which it flows, sending beautiful masses of spray and foam many feet in the air, makes an impression on the audience long to be remembered.” (Edison film catalog)
Producer
An early short with a self-explanatory title.
Producer
The title pretty much tells you all there is to know about this Edison film. It runs a very brief 27-seconds and shows a torpedo hitting its target and going off. I think the most fascinating thing about this is that we get a pretty close shot of the explosion and its aftermath. It was rather funny seeing this large explosion and especially seeing how long it took for everything that flew up in the air to land back down.
Director
The title pretty much tells you all there is to know about this Edison film. It runs a very brief 27-seconds and shows a torpedo hitting its target and going off. I think the most fascinating thing about this is that we get a pretty close shot of the explosion and its aftermath. It was rather funny seeing this large explosion and especially seeing how long it took for everything that flew up in the air to land back down.
Director
This picture shows the young cadets going through their daily exercises and drill, and is full of life, and photographically perfect.
Director
Reenactment of a South African battle.
Director
The picture opens with a crowd of Swiss boys and girls dressed in native costumes, marching down the street in this very unique and picturesque village. Each happy and smiling face is clearly shown as they pass the camera. The scene ends by the boys and girls congregating in the square and dancing to the strains of an accordion played by one of the happy villagers.
Director
The scene opens by showing the village girls driving home a herd of cows, and shows the native peasantry of Switzerland returning from their daily occupation watching the herds. After driving the cattle to their shelter, the boys and girls congregate in front of the old barn and go through a native dance, to the amusement of the spectators. These pictures are marvelously clear and distinct, showing every feature of the participants.
Director
This picture shows the Cadets marching, countermarching and a great many interesting manoeuvres.
Director
Taken from an automobile. This picture was taken during the fashionable driving hour, making a complete circle of the Place de la Concorde, passing hundreds of carriages and busses. The beginning of the picture shows the historical church of the Madeleine in the background, the picture ending by approaching and running under the main entrance to the Paris Exposition.
Director
An early short with a self-explanatory title.
Director
This picture opens with the young cadets climbing the rigging and going through the sail drill on board the famous historic ship "Constellation." Loosing sail to buntline, making sail, shortening sail and furling; also loose sail to bowline. This picture is absolutely perfect photographically; also very thrilling, and makes a most interesting subject.
Director
Filmed off the coast of Rhode Island, this Edison short takes place on the U.S. torpedo boat Morris as we see some men loading up a torpedo that is eventually shot off. This film lasts only 75-seconds but it's almost as if the director wanted to save the best for last. The first sixty-seconds are pretty lifeless as we barely get to see what's going on but once the torpedo is shot off things pick up.
Director
Beginning with the camera pointing toward the Invalides entrance, with the tomb of Napoleon in the background. The camera is slowly revolved until it rests upon the new and beautiful bridge of Alexander III, showing the immense crowds entertaining the Exposition.
Director
Showing the attacking forces drawn up in line of battle. They immediately commence firing on the shore batteries. The batteries return the fire with telling effect, but are at last silenced by the overwhelming forces of the enemy. In the distance can be seen the ruins of a bridge destroyed by the invading forces. The smoke thickens as the firing becomes general, and the effect is superb.
Director
Possibly the sensation of the flight of a bird can be nearest realized by being on deck of one of the U.S. Government's fleet torpedo boats racing at its highest speed through the water. This picture was taken under these conditions and shows the beautiful scenery comprising the harbor of Newport, R. I. In the foreground, the spray of the vessel and the foam on the water gives a fair idea of the rapidity at which this boat is moving.
Director
A Thomas Edison film showing a torpedo being shot.
Director
This picture shows thousands of people leaving their seats in the grand stand and going across the parade grounds toward Paris. A very sharp and clear picture.
Director
In the distance is seen a number of grey objects rapidly approaching, which, upon drawing closer, are recognized as a company of Boer cavalry. As they draw nearer, you can see that they are straining every nerve and urging their horses to the utmost speed. Waving their sabres aloft on they come, so that the audience involuntarily makes an effort to move from their seats in order to avoid being trampled under the horses.
Director
Filmed in July 1900, on the Champs Elysées in Paris, France.
Director
By the Gordon Highlanders. In the foreground are two Creusot guns, manned by the Dutch burghers. Smoke effects are due. The Highlanders are seen in the distance, approaching rapidly, easily distinguished by their kilts and bare legs. They sweep all before them, leaving the guns smoking and deserted as they pursue the flying Boers.
Director
Near the center of this scene we see the regimental surgeon directing the movements of the Ambulance Corps. Tenderly they pick up the unfortunates and place them in the ambulance. The numbers disabled show the battle has been a hot one, and many a poor fellow, if he survives with injuries, will carry to his grave the scars honorably acquired in his country's cause.
Director
Here we have a mixed company of Gordon Highlanders, Irish Fusilliers and English Lancers, as a group of prisoners taken to the rear by a troop of Boer Cavalry. The expression on their faces show who is the victor, and who is the vanquished. You can read in the dust and smoke-begrimed countenance of the prisoners, the story of their stubborn resistance to superior numbers before the surrender: while the Boers give expression to their feelings, by cheering and waving their hats in triumph as they pass.
Director
Two delinquent clerks are seated in a broker's office engaged in a game of cards. The boss suddenly appears walking through the corridor. The cards are thrown down in great haste and when the employer enters the office the clerks are apparently busily engaged in their work.
Director
This scene opens by showing a pretty cook mixing bread in the kitchen. Jones comes in unexpectedly from a trip and carries a dress suitcase. He inquires for his wife and is told by the cook that she is absent. Jones is hungry and asks for something to eat. The cook is very obliging and Jones becomes unruly, chuckles the cook under the chin. The cook puts her arms around Jones' neck and leaves finger imprints of flour on his back. This is where the trouble commences. (Edison catalogue)
Director
“Showing the entire height of this wonderful structure from the base of the dome and return, with the great Paris Exposition in the background, looking down Champs de Mars. A most realistic picture.” According to Edison film historian Charles Musser, this film features the first camera tilt among the company's surviving oeuvre.
Director
A panoramic shot, making a full circle, at the 1900 Paris Exposition. It begins and ends looking at the front of the Palace of Electricity. As it pans, first we see a workman hosing down the promenade. Men and women walk past, all wearing hats. We see the base of the Eiffel Tower, which the Palace faces. A couple strolls. A mother and daughter walk passed, father is slightly ahead wearing a boater. Three men in uniform walk toward the camera as it comes to a stop facing the Palace.
Director
Director
Director
A soldier is promoted for bravery, marries a Red Cross girl, and goes home to his parents.
Director
I do believe I have stumbled upon the very first exploitation picture ever made; and no it wasn't by David Friedman or Kroger Babb or K. Gordon Murray or anyone like that. Thomas Edison, the pioneer of moving pictures themselves, also gave us the first exploitation movie! Running a scant 2 mins 2 secs the movie offers us a look inside what is supposed to be a brothel in the Tenderloin district of San Francisco.
Director
This picture shows the Canadian troops departing from Quebec for the war in Transvaal. The scene opens with the soldiers clad in campaign uniform, marching under the triumphal arch, cheered by thousands of spectators who are waving English flags. The troops next appear marching upon the wharf and finally embarking upon the transport Sardinia[n], which is to carry them to far away South Africa.
Director
This picture ... centers about some guard ropes moving about, perhaps in the wind, perhaps as the platform the movie is taken from rolls about, while in the background, a procession of ships goes by.
Director
"A side splitting subject, showing the mistaken tramp's arrival at the Wm. Waldorf Astor mansion and being discovered comfortably asleep in bed, by the lady of the house."
Director
George Dewey was an admiral in the U.S. Navy who is best remembered for his victory at Manila Bay during the Spanish-American War, which he won without the death of a single person in the battle. Needless to say since he was a big hero in this country Edison decided to film him at various stages and release them to make some money.
Director
George Dewey was an admiral in the U.S. Navy who is best remembered for his victory at Manila Bay during the Spanish-American War, which he won without the death of a single person in the battle. Needless to say since he was a big hero in this country Edison decided to film him at various stages and release them to make some money.
Director
Showing Committee of Arrangements visit to the Admiral on board the U.S. Cruiser Olympia.
Director
"Showing the gallant Admiral standing directly in front of the camera, life size, his head bare, graciously bidding his guests adieu. This was exhibited at the Eden Musee and Koster and Bial's, New York, to 18,000 people the next day after the picture was taken."
Director
The only picture extant showing this wonderful performance of a horse diving from a staging 40 feet in height into the water. Scenes secured at the Shoot the Chutes pond at Coney Island, and depicts a truly wonderful feat.
Director
Short clip of passing troops at the Dewey Arch.
Director
A parade of soldiers.
Director
Circus bears showing their tricks.
Director
"Showing the entire trip from Brooklyn to New York. The immense towers stand out clear and distinct against the sky. The best picture of the Brooklyn Bridge yet secured."
Director
Positively the most wonderful series of pictures ever secured by an animated picture camera. The first scene is taken from the pond of the chutes, and shows a number of boats laden with gay Coney Island pleasure-seekers coming down into the water in rapid succession. The next scene is taken from the top of the incline, showing the boats being loaded, starting away, running down the chutes and dashing into the water. The next and most wonderful picture was secured by placing the camera in the boat, making a panoramic view of the chutes while running down and dashing into the water. Sold complete or in separate lengths.
Director
He throws off his coat, takes the rope in his mouth, dives from the raft into the river, and under a hot fire swims to the opposite shore, which is lined with Filipinos, hauling the raft after him and safely landing his men, who put the Filipinos to flight. Highly exciting and true to history.
Director
Crackers faux shooting and feigning getting shot in the Philippine-american war.
Director
Shielded by a thick bit of timber at a turn of the road stands a company of mounted men, awaiting the order to advance...
Director
Reenactment of action in the Spanish-American War.
Director
The Filipinos execute a flank movement and re-occupy the trenches, cutting off the advance guard of Americans. The rebel flag waves over the ditch and they defend their positions bravely. A fierce charge by our soldiers makes them give way and they scatter in all directions. The officer in command pays dearly for his desperate sortie.
Director
Recreation of military maneuvers in the Philippines in the Spanish-American War.
Director
Up the road comes a detachment of infantry, firing, advancing, kneeling and firing, again and again...
Director
“This is a new negative showing the entire trip from Brooklyn to New York, in which the immense towers stand out clear and distinct against the sky. Positively the best picture of the Brooklyn Bridge yet secured.” (Edison film catalog)
Director
Showing Central Park in the background.
Director
Taken from the front platform of a special train run backward over this celebrated S curve. Not only are the passing trains and crowded platforms of great interest, but the view of uptown New York is an excellent one, showing acre upon acre of roofs, towers, steeples and towering apartment houses. As the 'special' slows up at 92nd street, a Harlem express dashes by, the engineer leaning out of his cab, and waving a good-bye.
Director
“Showing a group of soldiers and Red Cross nurses being amused by a number of small children who are riding upon the backs of trick bears. A remarkably fine picture, with U.S. Infantry camp in the background.” (Edison film catalog)
Director
Rowdy patrons visit an Old West saloon.
Director
In [Admiral] Dewey land parade.
Director
"A panoramic view of the 'Raleigh,' as she lies at anchor off 27th Street, North River, April 17, 1899. Captain Coghlan stands among a group of officers near the bridge. The 'Raleigh' fired the first gun at Manila, and is the first boat of the Pacific Squadron visiting New York. All the details of the famous battleship are clearly shown as the launch from which the picture was taken moves rapidly around her."
Director
Shows a group of sailors and an officer at the stern. The flag runs out in a ball to the end of the staff, and, at the signal, is broken. Proudly the stars and stripes wave in the morning breeze, while the officer salutes. A very pretty picture of man-o-war life.
Director
A close view of an eighty-footer, schooner rigged, trim as a private yacht, skimming over the waters of the harbor, near Robins' Reef, which picturesque light house is seen in the near background. A steamer decked with bunting also passed by at close range.
Director
The Buffoons are artists in their line. They tumble in and out of trick doors, disappear and reappear in unexpected places in most unexpected ways. Sure to amuse the children.
Director
"An interesting exhibit by Hadji Cheriff, of the original Midway Plaisance. Twirls his rifle over his shoulder, behind back, under leg, both hands and one hand."
Producer
"An interesting exhibit by Hadji Cheriff, of the original Midway Plaisance. Twirls his rifle over his shoulder, behind back, under leg, both hands and one hand."
Director
People spill drink on themselves, supposedly after a poker game during the Yukon Gold Rush.
Director
Edison released this as part of their "Northern Pacific Rainway" and "Alaska and Yellowstone National Park" series.
Director
Probably part of the "Alaska and Yellowstone National Park Series" in the "Northern Pacific Railway Series"
Director
You see a shot of three horse-drawn wagons on a dirt road with some mountains in the far background...
Director
"Grandpa sits nodding in his armchair in the kitchen, where a sout, jolly washerwoman is washing clothes. While the woman leaves the tub to talk to a book agent, a small boy enters, and ties grandpa's chair to a towel which is hanging over the tub. The washerwoman begins vigorously wringing the clothes. The towel is drawn into the wringer, and as grandpa is sitting with his feet on the stove and the chair tilted back, a collision is brought about by the towel pulling grandpa and the tub together. This is a crowning success as a comic picture."—Edison Catalog
Director
Shows steam fire engine in action. Men scale ladders and play streams of water on a burning building. Very realistic.
Director
In this movie, dancer Ella Lola performs a Turkish variation of a "Danse Du Ventre", the oriental belly dance. In her dance she shakes, twists and turns around in a very energetic dance. The elements of Turkish folklore can be felt despite the lack of sound as the differences from this and other belly dances are very notorious when her traditional Turkish dress swings in a marvellous way as she dances. Unlike other films about exotic dances, Lola's movies (the other was "Ella Lola, a la Trilby") were of a less erotic nature and more focused on the realistic representation of the dance. A professional dancer since a very young age, Lola's dancing is very graceful and showcases an enormous control over her body.
Director
New York City welcome to Sampson's Fleet after the Battle of Santiago Bay, Cuba.
Director
New York City welcome to Sampson's Fleet after the Battle of Santiago Bay, Cuba.
Director
On Saturday morning, August 20, 1898, six grim battleships of Admiral Sampson's Squadron...
Director
On Saturday morning, August 20, 1898, six grim battleships of Admiral Sampson's Squadron sailed into New York Harbor and up the Hudson to receive a welcome from the people and to fire a salute of victory in sight of the tomb of the great soldier-hero of another war [Ulysses Grant].
Director
There is no movement, just the Statue of Liberty, right profile. No people, no flags rippling in the wind, no seagulls flapping past to mar the unmoving image of the Statue of Liberty.
Director
A farmer kisses a lean girl.
Director
From the upper windows of a ruined mill Cubans are firing at a scouting party of Spaniards, who return the volley. Fine smoke effects.
Director
“A file of Spanish soldiers line up the Cubans against a blank wall and fire a volley. The flash of rifles and drifting smoke make a very striking picture.” (Edison film catalog)
Director
Despite the title, the most one can glean from this very short short is a bunch of guys having fun in a harbor.
Director
The S.S. Australia departs from San Francisco Bay, carrying American soldiers to the Philippines.
Director
From one angle, a line of soldiers are shown walking up the gangplank.
Director
This picture was taken on the line of the Mt. Tamalpais Scene R.R., and whereas the previous views were taken ascending, this is a descending view, the camera being placed on the front end of the train which follows another train consisting of two passengers coaches and an engine.
Director
"Shows steamer plunging head-on through the heavy seas. Huge waves break over the bow and wash the deck, almost carrying away the look-out."
Producer
"Shows steamer plunging head-on through the heavy seas. Huge waves break over the bow and wash the deck, almost carrying away the look-out."
Director
Another entry in Edison's "Southern Pacific Company Series", which pretty much had cameramen hanging around the train line just shooting anything they could.
Director
Taken on the line of the Mt. Tamalpais scenic railroad, Marin county, California, from a flat car following the engine.
Director
This film was shot near the Union Works, San Francisco, California. Great look at the pleasure yacht "Unadilla" with her decks loaded with passengers.
Director
The large war vessel slides slowly down the ways, stern first. Rowboats in the foreground rock violently in the swell. One boat upsets.
Director
Parade footage from San Francisco.
Director
Parade footage.
Director
The film opens showing the native daughters mounted on horses.
Director
This twenty-five second film is from Edison's "Southern Pacific Company" series. What we see is a Japanese ship as it is floating into a harbor in Southern California.
Director
"Here was built the peerless battleship 'Oregon.' The scene is taken at lunch hour, and shows a great throng of employees leaving the shop."
Director
The film was photographed as if in the audience at a bull fight. No. 3 shows the collapse of the bull.
Director
This film shows the summit portion of the Mill Valley and Mount Tamalpais Scenic Railway, the Tamalpais Tavern resort, and part of the adjacent east peak of Mount Tamalpais.
Director
An active outdoor film with cattle being driven from an outdoor corral by mounted cowboys.
Director
Branding calves in 1898.
Director
Children entering and exiting a schoolhouse.
Director
"On the way to San[ta] Monica, Cal., the train approaches, runs through and emerges from a tunnel. Train passes in opposite direction. Camera is at front end of train, giving a very novel view."
Director
Taken at Fingal, Cal., where the world-renowned 'Sunset Limited' trains pass each other.
Director
Street scene of LA in 1898.
Director
"In front of each bare headed woman is a flat rock, used as a wash board. Stream of water near by. Naked Mexican child is playing in the foreground."
Director
A documentary short from Edison Manufacturing Company.
Director
A short from Edison Manufacturing Company also called Chinese Procession No. 12.
Director
"A double-decked trolley car, crowded with passengers, approaches and passes the camera. Carriages, pedestrians and bicyclists add to the action of the scene."
Director
Magnificent action is displayed by this troop of Mexican cavalry. They approach at full speed, with drawn sabres, wheel rapidly, and charge in the opposite direction.
Director
Shows the entire flock running around the corral with great strides and outstretched wings.
Director
"The fashionable set is parading in the park, after church. The concourse is composed of all nationalities, including several groups of pretty senoritas."
Director
Directed by James H. White.
Director
A young, dark-haired woman performs a dance inspired by George du Maurier's character Trilby, in an early modern dance style reminiscent of Isadora Duncan. She dances barefoot without stockings and is dressed in a long, flowing gown bound across the bosom in Grecian style, with inside fringe and a draped cape hooked to her wrist. She also wears what appears to be a garland headpiece. Holding her gown with one hand throughout, the dancer performs a series of kicks and turns with leg kicks front and back, rocking, and round de jambe.
Director
Here is a twelve car train dashing along at a high rate of speed. It is seen first in the distance and approaches and then passes by the camera...
Director
Shows the S.S. "Queen" at Seattle with an immense crowd of miners crowding the decks of the boat and the docks, carrying aboard baggage, implements, etc. Taken at the height of the excitement and gives a good idea of the vast numbers that started for the gold fields.
Producer
The crew of seven dressed in cork jackets, push the boat through the surf; they clamber in and row out to the wreck. 50 ft.
Director
Two carts, one with a boat on it, are being pushed out of a garage.
Director
One of the sights of San Francisco. A 50-foot slide is used by the bathers, who toboggan down its slippery surface in all positions...
Director
From Edison films catalog: The water breaks over the rocks, and is dashed into silvery spray, high into the air. Exceptionally fine water effects.
Director
"The main feature is the toboggan slide. Some sit down while others lie down, either head or feet first."
Director
This Edison short takes us to San Jose, CA where we visit the Hotel Vendome (just as the title suggests).
Director
Shows a party of tourists at this famous resort; located in Monterey, Cal., on the Southern Pacific Railroad. The magnificence of its surroundings is clearly shown. This early sponsored film by Southern Pacific Railroad offers views of tourists at the opulent resort in Monterey, California.
Director
From F.Z. Maguire catalogue: The background of this picture is the Lick Observatory, Mount Hamilton, Cal. This observatory, the gift of James Lick, of Pennsylvania, was constructed at a cost of $700,000, being equipped with one of the most powerful telescopes that has ever been produced, and is famous the world over. The view of the Observatory is very complete, showing the style of architecture, including the glass covered dome in which are placed the various astronomical instruments. Every Saturday night throughout the year is set apart for visitors to inspect the Observatory and look through the great glass. This view shows a coach load driving up and alighting.
Director
Taken on the S.P. Railroad, near tunnel No. 9. The train comes rushing out of the tunnel and passes at full speed...
Director
Taken at the docks of the Pacific Steamship Co., San Francisco, Cal., which is operated in connection with the Southern Pacific Railroad Co...
Director
A ship in a harbor.
Director
Another Edison film of a ship departing.
Director
Ten horse-drawn pieces of equipment of the Buffalo Fire Department pass by a stationary camera that looks down a broad avenue as they come toward it...
Director
This Edison short delivers everything the title says. In 24-seconds we see a boat being lowered into the water led by Capt. Joseph Hodgson. The boat is put into the water and it quickly disappears out of frame on a drill helping them prepare for a real sinking.
Director
Another Edison film shot in San Francisco at the Fisherman's Wharf. Once again the camera is looking down on a group of men doing their jobs.
Director
People walking around the campus. The view shows an immense arch in the background through which are seen coming groups of students, some walking, others on bicycles. The ivy covered walls of the building form the background to a pleasing picture.
Director
This was the first ship sailing for the Klondike from Seattle during the gold rush of 1897. The picture shows the excitement and enthusiasm that attended the great Klondike exodus. Crowds of anxious gold seekers watch the loading of their outfits, clothing, kits and provisions into the hole of the Williamette.
Director
The wharf is crowded with live stock, and the huge derrick slowly drops the large box or sling into the bunch. Into this cradle a horse is led, and is slowly hoisted and swung over to the deck of the steamer. This picture is taken ten minutes before sailing time.
Director
Shows the wharf at San Francisco, Cal., with a large fleet of fishing boats at anchor.
Director
A crowded ship heading out to sea.
Director
The famous Seal Rocks at Golden Gate Park are here shown. Sea lions in their wild state are lying on the rocks and swimming and diving in the water.
Director
Men on field. Boxing. Both wear numbers on back. Large round-hose swings. Several men apparently refereeing. One with striped pants. Possible at west point. Mountain visible in background of large field.
Director
Along the seashore near San Francisco, a boat belonging to the Pacific Coast Life Saving Service can just be seen as it returns to shore. Several men are at the oars. As the boat approaches land, it must make its way through rough waves and surging water.
Director
From Edison films catalog: Taken during the Klondike excitement. The streets are crowded with miners buying outfits and supplies. Mule trains, trolley cars and hurrying pedestrians give life and bustle to the scene. 50 feet. $7.50. Advertised as part of the "Northern Pacific Railway Series" (Edison films catalog): The following pictures were taken by our artists at various points on the Northern Pacific Railway. We are greatly indebted to their officials who afforded us every opportunity in their power to obtain these splendid views. Many of the scenes are incident to the excitement prevailing at the time of the Klondike gold rush. They show the resources of this company for handling large numbers of people, baggage, freight and excursion parties, and give to prospective tourists and merchants an idea of the facilities with which this road handles traffic of all kinds (p. 9). (LoC)
Director
“A clever characteristic dance called the 'Yellow Kid.' Very unique. Stage is in the Sutro Baths, San Francisco, Cal., and the audience is composed largely of bathers.” (Edison Catalog)
Director
Daily practice of life boat crew, showing boat being upset purposely by the men. As these boats are self-righting and self-bailing, the scene is particularly interesting.
Director
“By the Leanders. The dress of one consists of a pair of wings and a bow and arrow; the other represents a fairy. Bathers in all stages of dress and undress watch the graceful dance.” (Edison film catalog)
Director
“Shows the vessel after she has been fully turned and on her way across the Pacific. The boat shows large and clear with smoke coming from the stack. In the foreground is a constantly changing crowd of people composed of men, women and children. Action is added by some late comers who rush to the dock to wave their last farewell. Life-size, sharp and clear.” (F.Z. Maguire catalogue)
Director
The title tells us where we are; the vignette is in two parts, spliced together. On a busy sidewalk, a police officer holds the left arm and a suited man holds the other of a Chinese wearing a loose white shirt and hat - marching the man up the slight incline past the camera.
Director
“Another view in which the figures show larger. A springboard furnishes the bathers with much amusement; also a toboggan slide.” (Edison film catalog)
Director
In the Chicago stockyards, the gates of a pen of long-horn cattle are open and the cattle are being herded out by several cowhands.
Director
"Shows a large flock of sheep being driven from the cars to the slaughter house."
Director
The 'Laughing Waters' of Longfellow's 'Hiawatha.' A beautiful view of this picturesque and celebrated waterfall.
Director
At the Armour & Co. Chicago yard. Two railroad tracks dominate the center and right half of the frame as we look down about 40 meters where an overpass crosses...
Director
Stationary camera on a railroad yard.
Director
The busiest corner in Chicago. Cable cars and street traffic of all descriptions. Hundreds of shoppers. Fine perspective view looking north toward the Masonic Temple.
Director
A street scene showing parade of the entire Buffalo Police Department, 16 men abreast, with military band.
Director
Great horse racing on the famous Hartford track, showing start and finish of a 2.04 3/4 heat run by the fastest harness horse in the world, John R. Gentry.
Director
From Edison films catalog: A long line of horses, mules and ponies are led, driven and ridden into the yards, where they are sold and distributed.
Director
“Shows how a full carload of coal is loaded onto a vessel every thirty seconds at the great Erie Railroad Docks, Cleveland, Ohio. Great clouds of coal dust rise as each car is unloaded.”
Director
“This film is remarkable in several respects. In the first place, it is full life-size. Secondly, it is the only accurate recent portrait of the great inventor. The scene is an actual one, showing Mr. Edison in working dress engaged in an interesting chemical experiment in his great Laboratory. There is sufficient movement to lead the spectator through the several processes of mixing, pouring, testing, etc. as if he were side by side with the principal. The lights and shadows are vivid, and the apparatus and other accessories complete a startling picture that will appeal to every beholder.” (Edison Catalog)
Director
Shows a party of young people in front of a barn door, searching for the red ear, which is discovered, and the penalty exacted from one of the group who resists payment of the forfeit, thereby creating confusion and merriment. The group is animated, and is made up of real farmer boys and girls. During the progress of husking, the farmer arrives wheeling his little daughter to the sport on a barrow.
Director
Director
From Maguire & Baucus catalogue: A most amusing and life-like scene, in which a number of young ladies clad in their night robes, are seen engaged in a midnight frolic.
Director
"The famous parade ground of Metropolitan fashion. Exquisitely gowned women, club men, actresses, millionaires pass by on their afternoon stroll." - from the Edison Catalog
Director
"It dashes up just in time to gather in the crowd of rowdies that are fighting. The policemen hustle the toughs off to the station house."
Director
The hen house occupies the entire left foreground of the picture, running back to the nearby road. The main foreground is filled with tall grass swept by the wind, the naturalness of which effect is remarkable. A thief appears 'round the corner, carrying a tattered sack. He suspiciously approaches the window, from which two fowl are handed to him by a black confederat, who himself suddenly appears at the window, falling out head first but clinging tenaciously to a fluttering white bird.
Director
1897 version of Annabelle Moore performing a serpentine dance.
Director
“This subject taken just after the recent first fall of snow, shows two enthusiastic horsemen indulging in a "brush" with their respective horses and cutters.” (Maguire & Baucus)
Director
The camera shows a view of the American Falls and Goat Island.
Director of Photography
This picture was taken at one of the curves on the Lehigh Valley Railroad, along the beautiful Susquehanna River. The train is seen rapidly approaching in the distance, clearly outlined against the grey mountains. Smoke can be seen pouring in volumes from the stack of the locomotive, and as the train approaches closely, she sounds a whistle, warning some section men, who are working on the tracks in the foreground. As she rushes by the camera, the swing motion of the train gives a vivid idea of the lightning speed at which she is traveling. (Edison film catalog)
Director
This picture was taken at one of the curves on the Lehigh Valley Railroad, along the beautiful Susquehanna River. The train is seen rapidly approaching in the distance, clearly outlined against the grey mountains. Smoke can be seen pouring in volumes from the stack of the locomotive, and as the train approaches closely, she sounds a whistle, warning some section men, who are working on the tracks in the foreground. As she rushes by the camera, the swing motion of the train gives a vivid idea of the lightning speed at which she is traveling. (Edison film catalog)
Director
“This shows the Fire Department leaving headquarters for an early morning fire. The scene is remarkable for its natural effect. The opening of the engine house doors, the prancing of the horses, and even the startled expression upon the faces of the spectators are all clearly depicted.” (Edison Films, 1897)
Director
"A battalion of New York's famous mounted police at inspection. They approach at break-neck gallop." - from the Edison Catalog
Director
A burning wagon is dragged from the barn by the firemen, and four horses are rescued from the flames by the stablemen. Thick volumes of smoke pour from the doors and windows. (Edison catalog)
Director
“Mammy is washing her little pickaninny. She thrusts him, kicking and struggling, into a tub full of foaming suds.” (Edison film catalog)
Director of Photography
A woman and a young girl each carry containers of bird feed, and they toss occasional handfuls to the chickens and doves in the farmyard. Most of the chickens stay nearby, but the doves occasionally fly off and then return to eat more.
Director
A woman and a young girl each carry containers of bird feed, and they toss occasional handfuls to the chickens and doves in the farmyard. Most of the chickens stay nearby, but the doves occasionally fly off and then return to eat more.
Director
A look at the waterfalls of the Passaic River in the northern New Jersey city of Passaic.
Director
The camera shows a water ride at Bergen Beach at Coney Island. A raised track filled with water forms a chute, and a small boat full of park visitors slides down the chute. Alongside, empty boats are hauled back up to the top of the ride.
Director
Some men are playing a game on the beach, while some ladies with their backs to the cameras watch. A donkey cart ambles by.
Producer
A lady watering the garden with a hose, a mischievous boy stops the flow of water until she looks for the cause, when he permits the water to flow, resulting in the lady taking an unexpected bath. The father then appears and chastises the youthful culprit. One of the best films ever made.
Director
A lady watering the garden with a hose, a mischievous boy stops the flow of water until she looks for the cause, when he permits the water to flow, resulting in the lady taking an unexpected bath. The father then appears and chastises the youthful culprit. One of the best films ever made.
Director
The dancer Fatima, well-known for her dancing shows at the World's Exhibition in 1893, performs for the camera. She opens her act by twirling around a few times, and then she does the 'muscle dance' for which she had attracted considerable notoriety.
Director
Formed by the junction of Broadway, Sixth Avenue and 35th Street. The picturesque low roofed Herald building is plainly shown; also the passing crowds and group of idlers.
Director
"A well-known character, in a dance that created considerable excitement when first introduced in America."
Director
This is just at the title suggests. it's the McKinley and Hobart Parade at Canton
Director
“The watchful father disturbs a dream of bliss, and the bucolic lover is taught a lesson. He made a great hit.” (Edison film catalog)
Director of Photography
A fellow in a wide-brimmed hat, with a willowy stick for a rod and a baited hook, sits down on a plank hanging over a bridge above a stream. He sticks the rod under his seat and picks up his bottle to take a swig. Behind him creeps a joker who removes the large flagstone that's holding the fisherman's plank in place (IMDb)
Director
This is a typical Irish argument in which a can of beer, clay pipes and two sons of Erin form the principal parts.
Producer
A fellow in a wide-brimmed hat, with a willowy stick for a rod and a baited hook, sits down on a plank hanging over a bridge above a stream. He sticks the rod under his seat and picks up his bottle to take a swig. Behind him creeps a joker who removes the large flagstone that's holding the fisherman's plank in place (IMDb)
Producer
“The watchful father disturbs a dream of bliss, and the bucolic lover is taught a lesson. He made a great hit.” (Edison film catalog)
Director
A crowd watches the Newark Fire Department respond to a call.
Director
A fellow in a wide-brimmed hat, with a willowy stick for a rod and a baited hook, sits down on a plank hanging over a bridge above a stream. He sticks the rod under his seat and picks up his bottle to take a swig. Behind him creeps a joker who removes the large flagstone that's holding the fisherman's plank in place (IMDb)
Director
Two men have a contest to see which one can be the first to eat a large slice of watermelon.
Director
Artist draws Thomas Edison.
Director
Members of the New York state militia enjoy some relaxing time during a meal break.
