Broncho Billy rode the trails and the rails in Niles more than a century ago. He was the first cowboy movie star, years before Tom Mix and William S. Hart, let alone Roy Rogers and John Wayne. When people around the world pictured the “Old West” for several years, it was Niles that they saw on the big screen.
Gilbert Anderson, who became known as Broncho Billy in more than 100 one- and two-reel films, got his start on stage and then transferred those acting chops to the nitrate medium. The Essanay Film Manufacturing Company got its start in Chicago and then expanded with its second main studio built in and operated in Niles, then a small but bustling train hub of 1,400 residents. It became home to the western division of the Essanay studio for four years from 1912 to 1916.
Every July, the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum celebrates movies made here and beyond. This year the focus is on three classics showcasing bonafide movie stars from the end of the silent era, a time known for its high production values.
Friday opens with The Black Pirate, starring Douglas Fairbanks and filled with stunts, romance and adventure.
Saturday starts with a walking tour of downtown Niles and a screening of The Resurrection of Broncho Billy (1970). The day continues with more screenings at Edison Theater. Clara Bow, Charles “Buddy” Rogers and Gary Cooper cap Saturday night in the first Best Picture Oscar Winner (called Best Production at that time), named Wings.
Sunday explores film history and preservation with The Dying of the Light and Race Against Time: The Importance of Preserving Oral History. Sunday evening is rounded out with Our Dancing Daughters starring a young Joan Crawford.
The rest of the weekend has other interesting programs and presentations on preservation and aviation, a walking tour of the neighborhood, a documentary and some downright odd film fare. Visit the schedule online for specific details.
Broncho Billy Film Festival
Friday, July 17 – Sunday, July 19
Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum & Edison Theater
37417 Niles Blvd., Fremont
Weekend passes: $35 general / $29 members
Individual screenings: $10 general / $8 members
nilesfilmmuseum.org
