An Afternoon At The Cinema Part One

I have always found small towns unique in their history. This is no different with the town of Niles, Ca. It has a small town feel, but is still close to many of the bigger communities that encircle the San Francisco Bay.

So why head to Niles, Ca you ask? Well some friends that I do Spanish American War living history with wanted to put together a little event to watch some period silent films from (1890’s - 1910’s). And there is no better place then the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum. The Museum is located on the main drag and fits in nicely in with remaining buildings that have remained.

We arrived under a rainy sky, dressed as if were out on an afternoon to see a nickelodeon. The stormy weather did nothing to damping my sprits as this was a great opportunity to see some early film done by Edison and Lumier. As well as some shorts. The highlight of the film list for me being “The Great Train Robbery” from 1903.

This was a fun and eclectic side adventure perfect for a rainy afternoon. After the show was over our little group ended up at one of the local restaurants located down the street from the museum. If you have an interest in silent film and are in the area stop by.

Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum