This site is dedicated to the preservation of memory of silent films. Although they were quite important in the evolution of cinema, they remain virtually forgotten nowadays. Since the best way to understand the present is taking an attentive look at the past, here you have some movies, pictures, interviews, etc. on silent cinema. Some occasional material on sound films will also be presented. I hope you enjoy getting to know a bit more about the beauty and sheer fun of these golden oldies.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
The 1904 Vanderbilt Cup Race
The 1904 Vanderbilt Cup Race was the first international road race held in the United States. Eighteen cars from France, Germany, Italy and the USA competed for William K. Vanderbilt, Jr.'s 30-pound Tiffany cup on 30 miles of public Long Island roads. George Heath representing France won the race averaging 52.2 mph in a 90-hp Panhard. In one of the earliest sports films ever made, the race action was captured by cameramen G.W. Bitzer and A.E. Weed of the American Mutoscope & Biograph Company in Westbury and Plainedge. Note the last segment where 21-year-old driver Albert Clement, Jr. was seen protesting the race to referee William K. Vanderbilt, Jr. The original film was preserved by the Library of Congress Paper Print Collection. This edited film includes subtitles to describe the action, cars and drivers. More information can be found at VanderbiltCupRaces.com .
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