About Wharton studio museum
Wharton Studio Museum: Preserving and Celebrating Ithaca's Role in Early American Filmmaking
Wharton Studio Museum (WSM) is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to preserving and celebrating Ithaca's role in early American filmmaking. The museum is located in the historic Wharton Studio building, which was once home to one of the most successful silent film studios in America.
The Wharton brothers, Theodore and Leopold, founded the studio in 1914. They produced over 1,000 films during their time at the studio, including many popular serials such as "The Exploits of Elaine" and "The Mysteries of Myra". The studio also produced feature films such as "Robin Hood" (1922) starring Douglas Fairbanks.
WSM aims to preserve this rich history by collecting artifacts related to early American filmmaking. The museum has an extensive collection of film equipment, costumes, props, photographs and other memorabilia from the silent era. Visitors can learn about the history of filmmaking through interactive exhibits that showcase how movies were made during this time period.
In addition to preserving history, WSM also aims to develop the historic building in Stewart Park where it is located. The building was originally built as a power plant for Cornell University but was later converted into a film studio by the Whartons. Today it serves as a cultural center for Ithaca residents and visitors alike.
One of WSM's main goals is to create educational programs that teach people about early American filmmaking techniques. These programs are designed for all ages and include workshops on screenwriting, acting for film and video production techniques.
WSM also hosts events throughout the year that celebrate Ithaca's role in early American filmmaking. One such event is Silent Movie Month which takes place every August. During this month-long celebration visitors can watch classic silent films accompanied by live music performances.
The museum is run by a dedicated team of volunteers who are passionate about preserving Ithaca's film history. They work tirelessly to maintain the museum's collection and develop new programs that educate and entertain visitors.
In conclusion, Wharton Studio Museum is a unique cultural institution that celebrates Ithaca's role in early American filmmaking. The museum's collection of artifacts, interactive exhibits and educational programs make it an ideal destination for anyone interested in the history of cinema. Whether you're a film buff or just looking for something fun to do with your family, WSM is definitely worth a visit.
whartonstudiomuseum.org
