Silent Films in Maine, Part II will be shown in Augusta on November 13

Edna May Sperl and Ben Hendricks with Douglas’ Orchestra, a local Augusta band. Submitted photo

AUGUSTA – The Kennebec Historical Society and the Maine State Library plan to present “Silent Films in Maine, Part II” at the library’s temporary location, 242 State St., on Wednesday, Nov. 13, at 6:30 p.m.

‘Border River’ with Evelyn Brent and Edgar Jones. Submitted photo

From 1919 to 1921, Augusta was home to a film production company founded by Edgar Jones and local businessmen. His goal was to make “North Woods” movies. He chose the Augusta area because of the Kennebec River, surrounding lakes and forests, and the four seasons, according to an association news release.

Jones brought in a troupe of actors and a film crew, all of whom lived together at 129 Sewall St. Jones used locals as extras in the films. The films premiered at the Colonial Theater.

Jones worked with local writer Holman Day to adapt many of Day’s stories for the films. In 1921, Day and local businessmen took over the company and drove Jones out. Day soon bankrupted the company.

“A Knight of the Pines” with Edgar Jones and Edna May Sperl. Submitted photo

Six of the dozens of two-reel films from this era are known to have survived. Four are archived in various collections at the Library of Congress, and the British Film Institute donated a few to Northeast Historic Film in Bucksport. Digital scans of the original 35-millimeter films, with new musical scores added, were shown at the Colonial in June 2023.

Society host Ed Lorusso screened two of the films, “Caught in the Rapids” and “Cupid, Registered Guide,” in August. During this presentation he will show two different films, ‘Border River’ and ‘A Knight of the Pines’, each approximately 25 minutes. As before, Lorusso will provide commentary and answer questions after the viewing.

Lorusso has been restoring silent films since his retirement. Six of his projects have been licensed by Turner Classic Movies, including “The Enchanted Cottage” 1924, which aired in late September. His projects have been shown in various theaters and silent film festivals throughout the country. He is also the author of “The Silent Films of Marion Davies” and is working on a book about filmmaking in Maine during the silent era.

The Kennebec Historical Society presentation, co-sponsored by the Maine State Library, is free; donations are accepted.

For more information, call Scott Wood, Executive Director, at 207-622-7718.

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