Lime Kiln Club Field Day 1913
Lost to time for over a century, *Lime Kiln Club Field Day* (1913) resurfaced as a cinematic ghost from the silent era.
Director: Edwin Middleton
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lime Kiln Club Field Day (1913) about?
This silent comedy follows three suitors who compete to win the heart of the town's most desirable beauty, blending humor with the rustic charm of early 20th-century life. The story unfolds in a small community, where rivalry and romance take center stage against the backdrop of community gatherings and playful antics.
Who directed Lime Kiln Club Field Day?
The film was directed by Edwin Middleton, a pioneering figure in early cinema whose work contributed to the evolving language of visual storytelling.
Who stars in Lime Kiln Club Field Day?
The cast includes Bert Williams, Odessa Warren Grey, Wes Jenkins, Walker Thompson, and Henry Troy, with standout performances that bring the era's humor and heart to life.
Is Lime Kiln Club Field Day (1913) worth watching?
As the earliest surviving feature film starring Black actors, *Lime Kiln Club Field Day* is a cultural milestone that offers invaluable insight into early cinema and African American representation. While its silent-era charm may not appeal to everyone, its historical significance and unique atmosphere make it a fascinating watch for film enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
How long is Lime Kiln Club Field Day?
The film runs for 62 minutes, making it a concise yet immersive experience in silent-era storytelling.
About Lime Kiln Club Field Day (1913) — Rediscovered silent-era comedy starring Bert Williams
Lost to time for over a century, *Lime Kiln Club Field Day* (1913) resurfaced as a cinematic ghost from the silent era. Directed by Edwin Middleton, this groundbreaking comedy captures a bygone slice of early African American filmmaking, featuring Bert Williams as one of the suitors competing for the affections of the town's radiant beauty. Filmed in vibrant, unfiltered black-and-white, the movie pulses with the energy of late-night gatherings, community rivalry, and the timeless charm of small-town life. As the first surviving feature-length film starring Black actors, it stands as a vital artifact of cultural history, blending humor with the unmistakable spirit of early 20th-century America.
Discovered in the archives of the Museum of Modern Art a full century after its incomplete production, *Lime Kiln Club Field Day* offers a rare glimpse into a world where joy and ambition collided on screen. The plot's lighthearted competition—three hopefuls vying for love—plays out against a backdrop of rustic charm and playful mischief, all rendered in the silent film era's expressive style. For fans of vintage cinema or anyone curious about the roots of Black storytelling in film, this rediscovered gem is a treasure trove of nostalgia and cinematic legacy.