What's Happening?
A Pennsylvania man, Bill McFarland, spent years attempting to find a home for his great-grandfather's collection of old silent films, which he inherited. The collection, stored in two dusty trunks, was largely ignored by antique stores, museums, and even
online platforms like eBay. However, a film digitizing company recognized the potential value of the collection and directed McFarland to the Library of Congress. Upon receiving the donation, archivists at the library discovered a significant find: the last known original copy of a 56-second film from 1897 titled 'Gugusse et l’Automate' or 'The Clown and the Automaton.' This film is believed to be the first science-fiction movie ever made. The collection originally belonged to McFarland's great-grandfather, William DeLyle Frisbee, a traveling showman known as 'Professor Frisbee,' who toured rural areas with his road show kit, which included silent movies on nitrate film.
Why It's Important?
The discovery of 'Gugusse et l’Automate' is a significant cultural and historical find, as it represents the earliest known example of science fiction in film. This discovery not only enriches the history of cinema but also highlights the importance of preserving and re-evaluating historical artifacts that may have been overlooked. The film's preservation at the Library of Congress ensures that it will be protected and accessible for future generations, offering insights into the early days of filmmaking and the evolution of the science fiction genre. This event underscores the value of archival work and the potential for significant discoveries within seemingly mundane collections.
What's Next?
The William DeLyle Frisbee Collection, which includes 42 films, is now housed in a climate-controlled vault at the Packard Campus in Virginia, a facility dedicated to film preservation. The Library of Congress may undertake efforts to digitize and restore the films, making them available for public viewing and study. This could lead to increased interest in early cinema and potentially inspire further research into the origins of science fiction in film. Additionally, the discovery may prompt other collectors and institutions to re-examine their own archives for overlooked treasures.
