Scene 4; Brief Intermission

Welcome back to our studio tour! We will resume our journey into the past and see the rest of our (virtual) studio and review the actor's histories and activities. But first, before anyone embarks on any journey, whether it be a trek into the past, present or future, it is important to understand the reasons for doing it.

I have made several trips to Niles and am enjoying researching the history of movie making here. But, why is it so important? Is it because so many famous actors lived and worked here, and some of the most memorable movies were made and filmed in Niles? Is it because it is a major part of California history? Is it because our local history of major events should be preserved and chronicled for future reference? Is it because as historians we want future generations to know and understand what happened here and why?

Yes, it is all that, but there is something else..... Something intangible, something unique that only the people who live here can truly appreciate. The last physical remnants of the Essanay studio buildings are gone now. The old hotels, studio sets and surrounding buildings are in the past and have been replaced. As I walk down Niles Main Street, I see restaurants, bars, and shops that have replaced the structures where dreams were made, and where fantasy flourished. Broncho Billy and his posse ride no more. At first glance only the names of the street's businesses give a hint of what was once here.

As I spend more time here, I begin to see clearly that this place's past is still with us. As I speak with the residents and townspeople I sense their great pride in Niles, and their desire to preserve and rebuild this historic district of Fremont. They are rediscovering and exploring the past. What is truly remarkable is that they consider it "their" past. This place is revitalized and very much alive!

As you walk the main street, and visit the antique stores, and museum you are at once transported back in time. It is 1912 once again and you gain a sense of what Essanay studios accomplished here when Charlie Chaplin, Wallace Beery and Ben Turpin walked along these same streets. But there is so much more!

Niles has been here since the 1850's when the Southern Pacific railroad connected Oakland with San Jose and points south. Niles was also well recognized as the location of the California Nursery. As such it was the home of largest rose plantation in California. So,it is a combination of this area's rich history,and pride of its current residents that make Niles so special and appealing. Its history captivates anyone who visits here. This place has an atmosphere and historic character that compels one to explore it.

There are lots of historical places that you can visit and read a plaque or walk through a museum to gather historical facts. What sets Niles apart is even though "history" happened here almost 100 years ago, everyone that lives and works here is affected by it still today. It is a living history and that is what makes it so exciting and meaningful explore. That is why you are here with me on this studio tour! It is exactly the history of Niles Canyon that makes it the thriving place it is now.

But there is one more thing......... To really appreciate being in Niles it is necessary to "experience" Niles. The only way to do that is by viewing Charlie Chaplin's as well as some of the other works of the same genre. This journey through time is not complete until you can sit back, relax, and watch these people weave their magic on your mind. Only by seeing these old films can you get a feeling for this place as you walk the streets, and visit the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum.They show silent films there every week. On June 5, 2010 they will be having a Charlie Chaplin film festival featuring his most famous films.

I hope you will join me in this unique opportunity to transport yourself back to 1915 and let the spirit of Niles envelope you into its history, rather than simply remotely viewing it as just another event in California's colorful past. I will also be posting films for you to see in the "Projection Room" once my new projectionist learns how to operate that infernal machine! (I had to fire the old one!) Seeing the dedication and passion these actors put into their early film productions makes us understand why this connection with Niles's past is also its present and future.

Now....on with the show!