Thanhouser Company [SEP] founder
Edwin Thanhouser


Edwin Thanhouser (November 11, 1865 – March 21, 1956) was an actor, businessman, and film producer. He was most notable as a founder of the Thanhouser Company, which was one of the first motion picture studios. His wife Gertrude Thanhouser and brother-in-law Lloyd Lonergan were co-founders. Thanhouser was born in Baltimore, Maryland. In 1893, he joined the traveling company of Alessandro Salvini. After Salvini's unexpected death in 1896, Thanhouser managed the Academy Theater in Milwaukee, Wisconsin,
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Gertrude Thanhouser


Gertrude Homan Thanhouser (April 23, 1882 – May 29, 1951), wife of co-founder Edwin Thanhouser, worked at the Thanhouser Company film studio as actress, scenario writer, film editor, and studio executive. Her efforts made the studio one of the key independent US film studios in the nickelodeon and transitional era, praised for its erudite adaptations of Shakespeare and other "classical" stage dramas to the screen. Gertrude Homan was born in 1882 (one family account gives the date as 1880) in Beauvoir,
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Thanhouser Company


The Thanhouser Company (later the Thanhouser Film Corporation) was one of the first motion picture studios, founded in 1909 by Edwin Thanhouser, his wife Gertrude and his brother-in-law Lloyd Lonergan. It operated in New York City until 1920, producing over a thousand films. Edwin Thanhouser constructed a studio in New Rochelle, New York. The company thrived under his leadership and by the summer of 1910, it had established itself as the best of the independents in the industry. Frank E. Woods of the American Biograph
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Edwin Thanhouser


for the Shubert family and then the Bush Temple Theater in Chicago, Illinois. He formed a stock company that put on hundreds of theatrical productions. On February 8, 1900, Thanhouser married actress Gertrude Homan. In 1909, Thanhouser and his family moved to New Rochelle, New York, where he leased space in an old wooden skating rink to start the Thanhouser Company. This pioneering movie studio released its first commercial film on March 15, 1910. Thanhouser brought actress Florence La Badie to the company in 1911. From 1911
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Documentaries and minor subjects of the Thanhouser Company


The Thanhouser Company (formerly the Thanhouser Film Corporation) was one of the first motion picture studios, founded in 1909 by Edwin Thanhouser. It operated until 1920. It produced over 1,000 films, but several dozen of the films were of small filler subjects, educational or documentaries. Many of these smaller subjects were listed as a quarter or half a reel in length and received very little critical review or analysis by film critics and the media. The first quarter reel comedy, of about 250 feet, was "The Old Shoe
19650614
The Girl Reporter


leading ladies of the company, Anna Rosemond and Violet Heming. One of the more prominent leading male actors was Frank H. Crane. Though critics would reveal that the plot strained plausibility, the little known production details surrounding the film show that the Thanhouser staging was effective to one reviewer. Recently, the quality of the Thanhouser films were commended in an editorial by "The Spectator" in "The New York Dramatic Mirror" contained specific praise for Thanhouser productions by stating, "...practically all other Independent American companies, excepting Thanhouser
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Claude Cooper (actor)


East Coast companies, including the All Star Film Corporation, the Famous Players Film Company, the Reliance Film Company, and the Kinemacolor Company of America. However, his longest association was with the Thanhouser Film Corporation of New Rochelle, New York, for whom he worked, usually as an actor but sometimes as a director, from 1914 to 1917. For example, Cooper appeared in Thanhouser's "The Picture of Dorian Gray" (1915). Also at Thanhouser, he and Frank E. McNish were teamed together as the
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The Mad Hermit


, "Romeo and Juliet". There are no known credits for the cast, but Anna Rosemond and Frank H. Crane are two possible actors that were prominent players in 1910. Involved with the company since its beginnings, Anna Rosemond was one of two leading ladies of the Thanhouser company in this era. Frank H. Crane was a leading male actor of the company and also involved since the very beginnings of the Thanhouser Company. Bowers states that most of the credits are fragmentary for 1910 Thanhouser productions. A later statement by Edwin
3848552
The Actor's Children


and Yale Boss, were child actors with prior film experience and did not have any further known connection to the Thanhouser Company after the production. The cameraman, Blair Smith, used a camera rented by the Columbia Phonograph Company and had its inventor, Joseph Bianchi, assist in the camera's operation and use. The director of has both been credited to Barry O'Neil and Lloyd B. Carleton in numerous trade sources. Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser Company, but this film was not the Thanhouser Company's first subject.
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Charles J. Hite


he would have two daughters. Hite bought stock in American Film Manufacturing, and afterward purchased the Globe, Royal, and Union film companies, forming the Majestic Film Exchange. When he learned that the successful Thanhouser Company might be for sale, he approached Edwin Thanhouser, and he and his partners purchased that company for $250,000 on April 15, 1912, in a transaction arranged by Mutual Film Corporation. Following the purchase, Hite was named president of the Thanhouser Film Corporation. Under Hite's leadership, the company would see
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Daddy's Double


productions of the Thanhouser company. Lonergan was an experienced newspaperman still employed by "The New York Evening World" while writing scripts for the Thanhouser productions. He was the most important script writer for Thanhouser, averaging 200 scripts a year from 1910 to 1915. The director of the film is not known for certain, but two Thanhouser directors are possible. Barry O'Neil was the stage name of Thomas J. McCarthy, who would direct many important Thanhouser pictures, including its first two-reeler, "Romeo and Juliet". Lloyd
19131946
St. Elmo (1910 Thanhouser film)


for the first year of the company. Rosemond joined in the autumn of 1909 and in their first year of productions. Frank H. Crane was involved in the very beginnings of the Thanhouser Company from 1909. Crane's was the first leading man of the company and acted in numerous productions before becoming a director at Thanhouser. Bowers notes that St. Elmo was filmed in a mansion built in 1759, but the name and location of the structure is unknown. The actual date of the filming is unknown. During the weeks leading up
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Documentaries and minor subjects of the Thanhouser Company


and carried down to the sea." The 300 foot long film was released in Britain on October 20, 1910. It was very unlikely to have been filmed by the Thanhouser company and no record of the film has been found in the United States. The identity of the bridge or the time period in which the film was captured is also unknown at this time. "Parade of the Volunteer Firemen of Westchester County and Vicinity" is a documentary film produced by the Thanhouser Company. Filmed on October 6, 1910,
19650625
Under False Colors


and the slump in industry tied to World War I. Weeks before the film was released, "Variety" told of the winding down of the Thanhouser with the studio's staff consisting of Edwin Thanhouser and the bookkeeper, Jessie B. Bishop. The article concluded with the announcement that Lloyd F. Lonergan, the scenario writer of the company, had retired from the company. As it wound down, the Thanhouser Company was announced to have no liabilities would close with a positive bank balance. Little is known of the production of this film
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An Assisted Elopement


Rosemond, one of two leading ladies of the Thanhouser company in this era. One of the actors in the film was Frank H. Crane, a leading male actor of the company and also involved since the very beginnings of the Thanhouser Company. Bowers states that most of the credits are fragmentary for 1910 Thanhouser productions. The one reel comedy, approximately 1,000 feet long, was released on August 30, 1910. The film saw a wide national release, with advertisements in Kansas, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Nebraska,
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The Best Man Wins (1910 film)


writing scripts for the Thanhouser productions. He was the most important script writer for Thanhouser, averaging 200 scripts a year from 1910 to 1915. While the director of the film is not known, two Thanhouser directors are possible. Barry O'Neil was the stage name of Thomas J. McCarthy, who would direct many important Thanhouser pictures, including its first two-reeler, "Romeo and Juliet". Lloyd B. Carleton was the stage name of Carleton B. Little, a director who would stay with the Thanhouser Company for a short time
19946217
Cupid at the Circus


Evening World" while writing scripts for the Thanhouser productions. He was the most important script writer for Thanhouser, averaging 200 scripts a year from 1910 to 1915. While the director of the film is not known, two Thanhouser directors are possible. Barry O'Neil was the stage name of Thomas J. McCarthy, who would direct many important Thanhouser pictures, including its first two-reeler, "Romeo and Juliet". Lloyd B. Carleton was the stage name of Carleton B. Little, a director who would stay with the Thanhouser Company
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The Winter's Tale (1910 film)


important Thanhouser pictures, including its first two-reeler, "Romeo and Juliet". Lloyd B. Carleton was the stage name of Carleton B. Little, a director who would stay with the Thanhouser Company for a short time, moving to Biograph Company by the summer of 1910. Bowers does not attribute either as the director for this particular production nor does Bowers credit a cameraman. Blair Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser company, but he was soon joined by Carl Louis Gregory who had years of experience as a still
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Thanhouser Company


injuries sustained in an automobile accident in late August. In 1920, Thanhouser Corporation was liquidated. The Thanhouser Company's first release was "The Actor's Children" on March 15, 1910. The plot focused on a family of theater actors who struggle to pay the rent. While the parents are out, their kids are left out on the street where they dance to the music of an organ grinder. They are later rescued by a theater manager and are reunited with their parents at the theater. The film's conclusion
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Thanhouser Company


adaptation of Augusta Jane Evans's novel "St. Elmo". The Thanhouser version of "St. Elmo" would bring the company some recognition and would prove to be a success, but the film is also presumed lost. Thanhouser would release two more original scenarios, "She's Done it Again" and "Daddy's Double", before attempting two productions on the same reel. Released on April 15, 1910, "A 29-Cent Robbery" was included with "The Old Shoe Came Back", a short comedy filler
13845944
Oh, What a Knight!


not attribute a cameraman for this production, but at least two possible candidates exist. Blair Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser company, but he was soon joined by Carl Louis Gregory who had years of experience as a still and motion picture photographer. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. The cast credits are unknown, but many 1910 Thanhouser productions are fragmentary. In late 1910, the Thanhouser company released a list of the important personalities in their films. The list includes G.W. Abbe, Justus D.
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Rip Van Winkle (1910 film)


worked with Pathé, Kinemacolor, Vitagraph and other companies, but there is no record of Marston working with Thanhouser. This error has persisted in several works including "The Complete Index to Literary Sources in Film". The same work also credits Alphonse Ethier with a role, but this is not cited by Bowers. The only known cast credits are for Frank H. Crane and Marie Eline. The other cast credits are unknown, but many 1910 Thanhouser productions are fragmentary. In late 1910, the Thanhouser company released a list of
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St. Elmo (1910 Thanhouser film)


to the release, a spy for Thomas Edison's production company recorded details surrounding Thanhouser's production, including the filming of Thanhouser's first release, "The Actor's Children". The spy, W. E. Lowenkamp, had a New York State Detective license. Lowenkamp's reports suggest the possibility of filming in a house on March 10, 1910 and the intention to film the following morning, but it is unknown if this was related to "St. Elmo"s filming. Lowenkamp would speak to Edwin Thanhouser's sister in law,
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St. Elmo (1910 Thanhouser film)


reel drama, approximately 860 ft, was released on March 22, 1910 by the Thanhouser Company. The film was shown in Tennessee, Ohio, Washington, and Pennsylvania. An advertisement in Indiana lists "St. Elmo" in apparent reference to a "great Thanhouser film". Edwin Thanhouser later stated that there were ten copies of the film at first and the films were primarily distributed to the exchanges that had purchased the first work, "The Actor's Children". The desire for "St. Elmo" resulted in the
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Uncle Tom's Cabin (1910 film)


film is muddied by the prevalence of Vitagraph's production and stage plays. Two advertisements in Indiana and Kansas specifically note that the film to be shown will be the Thanhouser production. By the time of the film's release, the quality of the Thanhouser films in general stood out amongst the Independent producers. An editorial by "The Spectator" in the "Mirror" contained specific praise for Thanhouser productions by stating, "...practically all other Independent American companies, excepting Thanhouser, show haste and lack of thought in their production
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Stage Struck (1911 film)


of the film in "The Moving Picture World" would state the representation of the standard theatrical company was extremely good. This was not by chance, for many key persons at the Thanhouser company, including Edwin Thanhouser himself, had experience on the stage. Edwin Thanhouser knew the stage represented a great pool of acting talent, but many actors were regular citizenry, yet anonymity was the rule until towards 1912 and so on until the "star system" would come to force around 1914. The single reel drama, approximately 1,000
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William Garwood


his work with Dustin Farnum in the traveling company of "Cameo Kirby", to be one of his early career highlights in stage acting. This was his last appearance on stage prior to his debut in films. In November 1909, Garwood joined Thanhouser Company in New Rochelle, New York and was seen in his first Thanhouser film by 1910. He departed from Thanhouser in the autumn of 1911, by which time he was one of the studio's most popular actors. He returned in June 1912 after a season on the
18987024
A 29-Cent Robbery


a police whistle and starts investigating on her own, eventually finding the thief. The director of the film is not known for certain, but two Thanhouser directors are possible. Barry O'Neil was the stage name of Thomas J. McCarthy, who would direct many important Thanhouser pictures, including its first two-reeler, "Romeo and Juliet". Lloyd B. Carleton was the stage name of Carleton B. Little, a director who would stay with the Thanhouser Company for a short time, moving to Biograph Company by the summer of 1910
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Documentaries and minor subjects of the Thanhouser Company


comedy, "Sand Man's Cure" is equally obscure. It was released on April 22, 1910 with "Her Battle for Existence". Bowers did not find any information about the film in contemporary trade journals. A Thanhouser Filmography Analysis, provided by Thanhouser Company Film Preservation, lists it as comprising one quarter of a reel - approximately 250 feet. The reasoning is not provided, but the previous release and the next to follow were split reels of similar lengths. The film is not known to have appeared in any
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Documentaries and minor subjects of the Thanhouser Company


, along with "Parade of the Volunteer Firemen of Westchester County and Vicinity". The film is likely a documentary and likely shows the New Rochelle fire department, but little is known about the actual film's content. It is not stated explicitly if the film was produced by the Thanhouser Company, but another film with the same title was produced around 1905. Between 1913 and 1916, Thanhouser produced fifteen uniquely titled films with an educational focus, all of them except "Jungle Life in South America" were released as part
19650627
Her Battle for Existence


in time to dissuade Susan from her purpose, and all ends happily to the peal of wedding chimes." The director of the film is not known, but two Thanhouser directors are possible. Barry O'Neil was the stage name of Thomas J. McCarthy, who would direct many important Thanhouser pictures, including its first two-reeler, "Romeo and Juliet". Lloyd B. Carleton was the stage name of Carleton B. Little, a director who would stay with the Thanhouser Company for a short time, moving to Biograph Company by
19650682
Jane Eyre (1910 film)


Brought" and this film. Frank H. Crane was an early leading man of the Thanhouser company and was already credited in four previous films by the company. Amelia Barleon was a minor actress at Thanhouser with more stage experience. It is unknown how many films she appeared in, but this is credited as her first and "The Winter's Tale" as her second and last. Charles Compton may have had his film career start in this Thanhouser production, but he was better known for his juvenile roles on the stage.
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The Woman Hater (1910 Thanhouser film)


productions, Anna Rosemond and Frank H. Crane. Rosemond was one of two leading ladies for the first year of the company. Crane was also involved in the very beginnings of the Thanhouser Company and acted in numerous productions before becoming a director at Thanhouser. The single reel drama, approximately 1000 feet in length, was released on June 14, 1910. Theater advertisements for the film were found in newspapers in Indiana, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Ohio. The film was alternatively known and advertised as "Taming a Woman Hater"
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The Little Hero of Holland


Glen Park in New Rochelle, New York. Only Marie Eline's credit as Hans, the young boy, is credited. Eline had previously played an Italian boy in "The Two Roses". The other members cast may have included the leading players of the Thanhouser productions, Anna Rosemond and Frank H. Crane. Rosemond was one of two leading ladies for the first year of the company. Crane was also involved in the very beginnings of the Thanhouser Company and acted in numerous productions before becoming a director at Thanhouser. The
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Thelma (1910 film)


two possible candidates exist. Blair Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser company, but he was soon joined by Carl Louis Gregory who had years of experience as a still and motion picture photographer. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. Cast in the role of Thelma was Anna Rosemond, one of two leading ladies, of the Thanhouser Company at the time. The more minor role of Sir Philip Errington was played by Frank H. Crane, who acted in numerous productions before becoming a director at Thanhouser.
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Uncle Tom's Cabin (1910 film)


Uncle Tom's Cabin is a 1910 American silent short drama produced by the Thanhouser Company. The film was adapted by from the 1852 novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin" by Harriet Beecher Stowe. The plot of the Thanhouser production streamlined the actual story to portray the film over the course of a single reel. The film was released on July 26, 1910, on the same day that Vitagraph released the first reel of their own three reel version of "Uncle Tom's Cabin". This prompted the Thanhouser Company to advertise
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Uncle Tom's Cabin (1910 film)


male actor of the company. Crane was also involved in the very beginnings of the Thanhouser Company and would later become a director at Thanhouser. Surviving film stills, from advertisements in "Moving Picture World", show Crane in blackface in order to portray the part of Uncle Tom. The other players in the production are uncredited because their identities are unknown. Bowers states that most of the credits are fragmentary for 1910 Thanhouser productions. The cast and credits of this film are sometimes erroneously given because of confusion with other films of
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Avenged (1910 film)


Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser company, but he was soon joined by Carl Louis Gregory who had years of experience as a still and motion picture photographer. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. The cast credits are unknown, but many 1910 Thanhouser productions are fragmentary. In late 1910, the Thanhouser company released a list of the important personalities in their films. The list includes G.W. Abbe, Justus D. Barnes, Frank H. Crane, Irene Crane, Marie Eline, Violet Heming, Martin J.
6367553
Pocahontas (1910 film)


of the company, played the key role of Pocahontas and Frank H. Crane, a leading male actor, played the role of John Rolfe. George Barnes was cast in the role of Captain John Smith and it marked his first known credited Thanhouser appearance. Barnes played the role of the bandit who shot Broncho Billy in Edwin S. Porters "The Great Train Robbery". The rest of the cast credits are unknown, but many 1910 Thanhouser productions are fragmentary listings. In late 1910, the Thanhouser company released a list of the
6660849
Delightful Dolly


but at least two possible candidates exist. Blair Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser company, but he was soon joined by Carl Louis Gregory who had years of experience as a still and motion picture photographer. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. The role of Marie was played by Marie Eline, but the other cast credits are unknown. Many 1910 Thanhouser productions have fragmentary cast credits. In late 1910, the Thanhouser company released a list of the important personalities in their films. The list includes
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The Little Fire Chief


Evening World" while writing scripts for the Thanhouser productions. The film director is unknown, but it may have been Barry O'Neil or Lucius J. Henderson. Cameramen employed by the company during this era included Blair Smith, Carl Louis Gregory, and Alfred H. Moses, Jr. though none are specifically credited. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. The cast credits for this production are fragmentary like many 1910 Thanhouser productions. In late 1910, the Thanhouser company released a list of the important personalities in their films.
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Fannie Bourke


." She appeared on Broadway in the play "Mere Man" in 1912. Bourke became a stock player for Thanhouser Company in late 1913. She appeared frequently in Thanhouser productions between 1914 and 1915, including "A Dog's Love" and "Percy's First Holiday". After leaving Thanhouser, Bourke worked as an actress for Arrow Film Corporation. In late 1915, Bourke took over a failing 500-seat movie theatre, The Princess, in New Rochelle, New York (where Thanhouser had its studio); she transformed
13739775
The Converted Deacon


David Bowers. Members cast may have included the leading players of the Thanhouser productions, Anna Rosemond, Frank H. Crane and Violet Heming. Despite the lack of production details, the quality of the Thanhouser films in general stood out amongst the Independent producers. An editorial by "The Spectator" in "The New York Dramatic Mirror" contained specific praise for Thanhouser productions by stating, "...practically all other Independent American companies, excepting Thanhouser, show haste and lack of thought in their production. Crude stories are crudely handled,
3271844
The Girls of the Ghetto


. Members cast may have included the leading players of the Thanhouser productions Frank H. Crane and Violet Heming. Despite the lack of production details, the quality of the Thanhouser films in general stood out amongst the Independent producers. An editorial by "The Spectator" in "The New York Dramatic Mirror" contained specific praise for Thanhouser productions by stating, "...practically all other Independent American companies, excepting Thanhouser, show haste and lack of thought in their production. Crude stories are crudely handled, giving the impression that they are
3371862
Thanhouser Company


rebuilt. After Hite's death in an automobile accident, the company continued for another five years. After a period of floundering under inexperienced leadership, Edwin Thanhouser was hired to take charge, but he could not recreate the success of his earlier years. The film industry had evolved and was more competitive by this time, and although films featuring star Florence La Badie were still successful, other ventures were not. La Badie left Thanhouser Corporation in 1917, only weeks before her own death on October 13, 1917, due to
13845941
St. Elmo (1910 Thanhouser film)


them played a directorial a role in the production. Barry O'Neil was the stage name of Thomas J. McCarthy, who would direct many important Thanhouser pictures, including its first two-reeler, "Romeo and Juliet". Lloyd B. Carleton was the stage name of Carleton B. Little, a director who would stay with the Thanhouser Company for a short time, moving to Biograph Company by the summer of 1910. The confusion between the directing credits stems from the industry practice of not crediting the film directors, even in studio news
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Documentaries and minor subjects of the Thanhouser Company


." A review of the subject states that the scenario begins with a wife who purchases some bargain-priced cigars for her husband. The husband and those who he gives them to are also nearly sick from the poor cigars. The well-intentioned wife believes he must like them and orders several boxes for him. Little else is known about the production, but its photography was praised and Gloria Gallop is credited in the role of the wife. A Thanhouser Filmography Analysis, provided by Thanhouser Company Film Preservation, lists it
19650618
Jane Eyre (1910 film)


the film is not known, two Thanhouser directors are possible. Barry O'Neil was the stage name of Thomas J. McCarthy, who would direct many important Thanhouser pictures, including its first two-reeler, "Romeo and Juliet". Lloyd B. Carleton was the stage name of Carleton B. Little, a director who would stay with the Thanhouser Company for a short time, moving to Biograph Company by the summer of 1910. Bowers does not attribute either as the director for this particular production nor does Bowers credit a cameraman. Blair
19719754
The Best Man Wins (1910 film)


Faust and Frank H. Crane, both which were leading men in numerous productions. Frank H. Crane was involved in the very beginnings of the Thanhouser Company from 1909. Crane's was the first leading man of the company and acted in numerous productions before becoming a director at Thanhouser. The two suitors vying for her hand in marriage is Bowers credits Martin J. Faust as one of the most important actors in for Thanhouser in 1910 and 1911, but Faust's role in productions often went uncredited. The role of a young daughter was
19946219
Gone to Coney Island and Booming Business


Gone to Coney Island and Booming Business are two 1910 American silent short comedy productions by the Thanhouser Company. Both were released together on a single film reel on July 5, 1910. "Gone to Coney Island" is a comedy that features Coney Island, which the mere subject would make for a successful film. "Booming Business" may have been the very type of slapstick comedy that Edwin Thanhouser specifically said the Thanhouser Company would not produce. The productions of both films have no credits for the cast or crew, but
3143135
Lena Rivers (1910 film)


was most likely Lloyd Lonergan. He was an experienced newspaperman employed by "The New York Evening World" while writing scripts for the Thanhouser productions. The Thanhouser Company adaptation is the first film adaptation of the book. The film director is unknown, but it may have been Barry O'Neil. Film historian Q. David Bowers does not attribute a cameraman for this production, but at least two possible candidates exist. Blair Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser company, but he was soon joined by Carl Louis Gregory who had years
4076373
Jane Eyre (1910 film)


Bowers credits Martin J. Faust as one of the most important actors in for Thanhouser in 1910 and 1911, but Faust's role in productions often went uncredited. Both Irma Taylor and Alphonese Ethier were actors that appeared in Thanhouser productions with few credits. The last identified member of the cast is William Garwood, who was among the most important actors at Thanhouser. He joined the company in late 1909 and remained until 1911 before returning in 1912. This is known as his first credited work with Thanhouser. The single reel film,
19719757
Mother (1910 film)


Carey L. Hastings, real name Carey Tidball, was a sister of Gertrude Thanhouser and was an actress that was featured in numerous Thanhouser productions. Hastings first and earliest known work was Thanhouser's St. Elmo adaptation. Hastings would not have another known credit until 1912. The Silent Era website states that Harry Benham and Maude Fealy had roles in the production. However, both of these credits are well-before those attributed by Bowers. Harry Benham is known to have joined the Thanhouser Company in 1910, but the first credit cited
5274361
Thanhouser Company


saw more adaptations of classics and short stories, including "Paul and Virginia", "John Halifax, Gentleman", "Rip Van Winkle" and "The Vicar of Wakefield". "Love and Law" was released on December 17, it was to be the first of four films in the "Violet Gray, Detective" series though it was originally billed as part of the "Thanhouser Detective Series". Previously Thanhouser had released another film about a woman reporter who uncovered a political corruption in "The Girl Reporter
13845947
Documentaries and minor subjects of the Thanhouser Company


of the Thanhouser brand. Six of the fifteen films depict Yellowstone Park. "An American in the Making" and "The Spirit of Audubon" are two drama productions that contained a significant educational element and both are listed as educational films in the Thanhouser database despite their dramatic elements. "Lizards of the Desert" is a short 384 foot subject of unknown origin. It was released on October 9, 1914, as part of a split reel with "The Benevolence of Conductor 786" at the beginning. A reviewer of
19650628
Shep (Thanhouser Collie)


Shep, or The Thanhouser Dog or Shep the Dog (died November 1914), was a male collie dog who starred in a number of silent films made by the Thanhouser Company. Shep was a collie owned by Jack Harvey, a film director. When Harvey was working for Vitagraph Studios, Shep appeared in a number of films, but was not given much publicity. In September 1914 "Motion Picture Magazine" said that Shep was owned by Arthur Ashley while he was with Vitagraph. In "A Dog's Love"
16884675
Jane Eyre (1910 film)


Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser company, but he was soon joined by Carl Louis Gregory who had years of experience as a still and motion picture photographer. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. Cast in the role of a young Jane Eyre was Marie Eline, soon to be known and famous as the "Thanhouser Kid". Almost nothing is known about Gloria Gallop's role or work in the Thanhouser productions, but she is credited with the minor filler subject, "The Cigars His Wife
19719755
Tempest and Sunshine


writer of the adapted scenario is unknown, but it was most likely Lloyd Lonergan. Lonergan was an experienced newspaperman employed by "The New York Evening World" while writing scripts for the Thanhouser productions. He was the most important script writer for Thanhouser, averaging 200 scripts a year from 1910 to 1915. The film director is unknown, but it may have been Barry O'Neil. Bowers does not attribute a cameraman for this production, but two possible candidates exist. Blair Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser company, but
3039880
The Actor's Children


ft, was released on March 15, 1910 by the Thanhouser Company. In later years, Edwin Thanhouser recalled that 19 copies of the film were produced and sent out to dealers throughout the United States. Of these 19 copies produced, ten were returned, some with letters of interest in future Thanhouser productions. The film was viewed across the United States with advertisements for showings in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Kansas, and Washington "The Actor's Children" was released with enthusiasm and positive reviews in trade publications. "The Moving
6973052
Cupid at the Circus


one of two leading ladies for the first year of the company and joined in the autumn of 1909. Crane was involved in the very beginnings of the Thanhouser Company from 1909. Crane's was the first leading man of the company and acted in numerous productions before becoming a director at Thanhouser. The setting of the film included Barnum and Bailey circus that were shot by a special arrangement with Mr. Barnum and Bailey. The date of the filming is unknown, but the 1910 route of Barnum & Bailey's Greatest Show on Earth
19947029
The Little Mother


the production is that of Marie Eline in the role of the little mother. Known and advertised prominently as the "Thanhouser Kid", Marie Eline received more attention then other Thanhouser staff. Historian Q. David Bowers wrote, "Her versatile acting was a major contributor to the success that the Thanhouser Company enjoyed during its formative years." The film harkens back to the role played by Eline in her film debut, "A 29-Cent Robbery", in which she played a child detective to capture a thief. The single reel
12117911
She's Done it Again


. Lonergan was the writer of both of the previous productions, "The Actor's Children" and "St. Elmo". This release marked the first comedy release of a scenario written by Lonergan and also the first comedy produced by the Thanhouser company. Lonergan was an experienced newspaperman still employed by "The New York Evening World" while writing scripts for the Thanhouser productions. He was the most important script writer for Thanhouser, averaging 200 scripts a year from 1910 to 1915. Film historian Q. David Bowers attributes the director of
19034218
A 29-Cent Robbery


. The American Film Institute credits Barry O'Neil as the director. Film historian Q. David Bowers does not attribute either as the director for this particular production, but he does credit Blair Smith as the cameraman. The film was the debut of Marie Eline, soon to be known and famous as the "Thanhouser Kid". Her older sister, Grace Eline, later recalled being in this Thanhouser production. Grace Eline did not become an official member of the Thanhouser company until 1913. The one reel drama, approximately , was released
19588535
Documentaries and minor subjects of the Thanhouser Company


film may have been related to the efforts of Dr. Raymond Ditmars, of the nearby New York Zoological Gardens (Bronx Zoo), who was the subject of many trade paper articles for his pioneering films of snakes, lizards, turtles, and other herpetological subjects." In November 1914, it was announced that Thanhouser would be releasing a series of six one-reel scenic films of Yellowstone Park. Footage for these six reels was shot by Thanhouser cameraman, Carl Louis Gregory, and it was shot in the national park in
19650630
The Woman Hater (1910 Thanhouser film)


historian Q. David Bowers does not attribute a cameraman for this production, but two possible candidates exist. Blair Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser company, but he was soon joined by Carl Louis Gregory who had years of experience as a still and motion picture photographer. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. Only one credit for the film is known: Violet Heming as Lou Bennett. The other members cast in the production are unknown, but the cast may have included the leading players of the Thanhouser
2726391
The Stolen Invention


the Thanhouser productions. The film director is unknown, but it may have been Barry O'Neil. Film historian Q. David Bowers does not attribute a cameraman for this production, but at least two possible candidates exist. Blair Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser company, but he was soon joined by Carl Louis Gregory who had years of experience as a still and motion picture photographer. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. Cast credits are unknown, but many 1910 Thanhouser productions are fragmentary. "The Celluloid
5874581
Leon of the Table D'hote


the Thanhouser productions. The film director is unknown, but it may have been Barry O'Neil. Film historian Q. David Bowers does not attribute a cameraman for this production, but at least two possible candidates exist. Blair Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser company, but he was soon joined by Carl Louis Gregory who had years of experience as a still and motion picture photographer. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. The cast credits are unknown, but many 1910 Thanhouser productions are fragmentary. In late
6367485
Ethyle Cooke


early when, at the age of 12, she performed at the Boston Museum (even though she had been tap dancing since the age of 6). Her film career began in 1911, when she joined the Thanhouser film company in New Rochelle, New York, and she remained there until 1917. She married Harry Benham, another actor working at the Thanhouser. They lived a long, happily married life and had two children, Dorothy and Leland Benham, who were also prominent Thanhouser personalities, as they appeared in several
19755954
Gone to Coney Island and Booming Business


likely Lloyd Lonergan. Lonergan was an experienced newspaperman employed by "The New York Evening World" while writing scripts for the Thanhouser productions. He was the most important script writer for Thanhouser, averaging 200 scripts a year from 1910 to 1915. The film director is unknown, but it may have been Barry O'Neil. Bowers does not attribute a cameraman for this production, but two possible candidates exist. Blair Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser company, but he was soon joined by Carl Louis Gregory who had years of
3143141
The Mad Hermit


. Edwin Thanhouser would later describe the production as, "...a rather lamentable affair. It included everything from murder through robbery and a love story. It boasted enough material for 15 plots." According to Q. David Bowers, Edwin Thanhouser felt that the production had many amateurish aspects and held off on releasing the film until the reputation of the company was secured. The film was directed by Barry O'Neil, the stage name of Thomas J. McCarthy. O'Neil would direct many important Thanhouser pictures, including its first two-reeler
3848551
Looking Forward (1910 film)


credits are unknown, but many 1910 Thanhouser productions are fragmentary. In late 1910, the Thanhouser company released a list of the important personalities in their films. The list includes G.W. Abbe, Justus D. Barnes, Frank H. Crane, Irene Crane, Marie Eline, Violet Heming, Martin J. Faust, Thomas Fortune, George Middleton, Grace Moore, John W. Noble, Anna Rosemond, Mrs. George Walters. Musical accompaniment for the silent films were not provided by the studios, and the Thanhouser productions were no exception. The musical
9158047
Thanhouser Company


Company would pen an editorial in "The New York Dramatic Mirror" as "The Spectator", praising the Thanhouser company to this effect. It was sold to Mutual Film Corporation on April 15, 1912, for $250,000. Charles J. Hite took charge. On January 13, 1913, a fire destroyed the main facility in New Rochelle; much equipment and many costumes and negatives of films in production were lost. However, subsidiary studios that had been set up were able to meet distributors' needs while it was being
13845940
St. Elmo (1910 Thanhouser film)


intention to adapt the novel for the screen. Lloyd Lonergan adapted the play for the Thanhouser Company. "The Book News Monthly" said that Lonergan received a share of interest in the company for his good work in producing the scenario. Lonergan already had a single share of 100 total shares of the company from the initial $10,000 in capital in 1909. The director of has both been credited to Barry O'Neil and/or Lloyd B. Carleton by film historian Q. David Bowers. It is not known for certain who directed or if both
18931491
The Two Roses


who would stay with the Thanhouser Company for a short time, moving to Biograph Company by the summer of 1910. Film historian Q. David Bowers does not attribute a cameraman for this production, but two possible candidates exist. Blair Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser company, but he was soon joined by Carl Louis Gregory who had years of experience as a still and motion picture photographer. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. The role of the Italian father Tony was played by Frank H. Crane.
2667601
A Dainty Politician


Thanhouser company, but he was soon joined by Carl Louis Gregory who had years of experience as a still and motion picture photographer. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. There are no known credits for the cast, but Anna Rosemond and Frank H. Crane are two possible actors that were prominent players in 1910. Credits may have included Anna Rosemond, one of two leading ladies of the Thanhouser company in this era. Frank H. Crane was a leading male actor of the company and also involved since the very
5052269
The Latchkey


by Carl Louis Gregory who had years of experience as a still and motion picture photographer. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. There are no known credits for the cast, but Anna Rosemond and Frank H. Crane are two possible actors that were prominent players in 1910. Credits may have included Anna Rosemond, one of two leading ladies of the Thanhouser company in this era. Frank H. Crane was a leading male actor of the company and also involved since the very beginnings of the Thanhouser Company. Bowers states
5203958
James Cruze


directed and or produced over 100 films mainly during the silent film era. His first known acting job was at Lubin Manufacturing Company in 1910. He started at Thanhouser Company in 1912 which is where the majority of his body of work was produced, much of it as the leading man. He married the actress Marguerite Snow in 1913 and had a daughter with her in 1914. They divorced in 1922. After leaving Thanhouser in 1916, he worked for several other companies as director and producer, primarily for Paramount Pictures, from
8454509
Lloyd B. Carleton


Lloyd B. Carleton (1872 – August 8, 1933) was an early film director with Thanhouser. Carleton and Barry O'Neil were directors at the film company from its start in 1909. Born in New York City as Carleton B. Little, he studied at Columbia College before starting a stage career and becoming a director with stock companies. He was a producer for a "Peter Pan" production in Australia in 1908. He began his film career with Thanhouser then moved to American Biograph and then Lubin Studios, Box Office Attractions Company
10508980
Film studio


Happened to Mary", was released by the Edison company in 1912. The pioneering Thanhouser film studio was founded in New Rochelle, New York in 1909 by American theatrical impresario Edwin Thanhouser. The company produced and released 1,086 films between 1910 and 1917, successfully distributing them around the world. In the early 1900s, companies started moving to Los Angeles, California. Although electric lights were by then widely available, none were yet powerful enough to adequately expose film; the best source of illumination for motion picture production was natural sunlight
13975875
She Wanted to Marry a Hero


B. Little, a director who would stay with the Thanhouser Company for a short time, moving to Biograph Company by the summer of 1910. Film historian Q. David Bowers does not attribute either as the director for this particular production nor does Bowers credit a cameraman. Blair Smith was the first cameraman of the Thanhouser company, but he was soon joined by Carl Louis Gregory who had years of experience as a still and motion picture photographer. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. Anna Rosemond was one of two
19651516
William Bowman (director)


" on the Orpheum and Keith circuits. Bowman then returned to the legitimate stage and spent several seasons in Chicago serving as a leading man in productions presented by The Imperial and Bush Temple stock companies. After gaining considerable acting experience on stage, Bowman was invited by Edwin Thanhouser to join his new motion-picture company, which he had established in 1909 in New Rochelle, New York. Bowman moved to New Rochelle in the latter months of 1910 and took residence at 276 Huguenot Street. He first appeared in the Thanhouser Company
7558812
She's Done it Again


beginnings of the Thanhouser Company from 1909. Crane was the first leading man of the company and acted in numerous productions before becoming a director at Thanhouser. The film was released on March 29, 1910 and was met with some positive reviews. The film was known to have an alternate or working title of "The Liar and the Thief", which is credited by Bowers and appears in an index in the "Moving Picture World". Another reference for the film instead shortens the name to "Done it Again".
19034220
Helen Badgley


never went back. She ended up with 103 credits to her name earning her the title "Thanhouser Kidlet" after the movie studio Thanhouser located in New York City which burned down. Her father was Gerald Badgely, expert mechanic and electrician at the studio where he perfected the Vista moving picture recorder. She married Robert J. Coar, founder of US Capitol Recording studio serving the Senate and House of Representatives in Washington DC. He would record the "Fireside Chats" with FDR during World War II. They raised four children in
6050090
Thanhouser Company


The Mermaid" and "The Restoration". On August 9, "The Mad Hermit" was released and Edwin Thanhouser's fears of it being an amateur production were unfounded. Films in the autumn included novel plots like "Dots and Dashes", where Morse code facilitates a man's escape from a safe. As Halloween approached, the company released "The Fairies' Hallowe'en", a trick film geared towards child audiences. "A Thanksgiving Surprise" would also be released in time for Thanksgiving. The winter of 1910
13845946
Cupid at the Circus


York. The May 21 fire did not result in injury or loss of life, but was caused an estimated $10,000 in damages, . The film was met with favorable reviews from critics. "The Morning Telegraph" offers general praise for the good photography and the well-told story. "The Nickelodeon" was equally positive and began to reflect the acting, staging and photography was up to the regular standard of the Thanhouser company. "The New York Dramatic Mirror" offered additional comments on the Thanhouser company's higher
19947032
Justus D. Barnes


. Between 1910 and 1917, Justus appeared in more than seventy films for the Thanhouser, usually in the role of a villain. He played Ham Peggotty in "David Copperfield", the earliest known film adaption of the 1850 novel by Charles Dickens. He also played supporting roles in "Nicholas Nickleby" (1912), "Aurora Floyd" (1912), and "A Dog of Flanders" (1914). In 1917, he was released from the Thanhouser Company due to the company's financial issues. Barnes
8913162
The Woman in White (1912 film)


The Woman in White is a 1912 American short silent film based on the 1860 novel of the same name by Wilkie Collins, produced by the Gem Motion Picture Company. Unlike a second film adaptation of "The Woman in White" produced by the Thanhouser Company the same year, it is not a lost film; a copy is preserved at the George Eastman Museum in Rochester, New York. The Thanhouser version was one of the silent films destroyed when their initial studio burned in 1913. Directed by George Nichols, "The
10071750
A 29-Cent Robbery


on Friday April 15, 1910. Another short, "The Old Shoe Came Back" was also included on the reel, making it a split-reel. It was also the first split reel release from the Thanhouser Company. This release was the first Friday release of the Thanhouser company, switching from its Tuesday weekly release. According to an advertisement in the "Moving Picture News", the weekly release dates were changed at the request of exhibitors. The film received favorable reviews by critics. "The Morning Telegraph"
19588536
The Two Roses


Crane was involved in the very beginnings of the Thanhouser Company and acted in numerous productions before becoming a director at Thanhouser. In the role of Tony's wife was Anna Rosemond, who was one of two leading ladies for the first year of the company. Marie Eline, played the role of Tony's son, was concealed in masculine make up and black hair for the role of the Italian boy. "The Moving Picture World" said, "[m]aybe you'd never recognize her if we did not tip you off
2667602
The Writing on the Wall (film)


the first year of the company. Crane was also involved in the very beginnings of the Thanhouser Company and acted in numerous productions before becoming a director at Thanhouser. An article in "The Moving Picture World" over a botched scene identifies Barry O'Neil as the director who stunned the studio workers. In a critical scene in the film, the two villains bungled the attempt to drug the hero and wound up drinking the drugged drink. O'Neil reportedly called out, "Stop! You've drank the poison!" The article was
2668165
The Actor's Children


The Actor's Children is a 1910 American silent short drama written by Lloyd Lonergan and produced by the Thanhouser Company in New Rochelle, New York. The film features Orilla Smith, Yale Boss, Frank Hall Crane and Nicholas Jordan. The production was not the first film subject by the company, but it was the first to be released. Both Barry O'Neil and Lloyd B. Carleton have been credited as the director of the production. Edwin Thanhouser stated that 19 copies of the film were produced and distributed to dealers. The film
6973043
The Little Fire Chief


"The Little Hero of Holland". If the cast information provided by "The Monroe News-Star" is accurate, it represents the earliest credit of Mignon Anderson for the Thanhouser Company. If it is not, the first known credit for would be four months later in "Robert Emmet" in March 1911. The film would also be an early credit of William Garwood, who was among the most important actors at Thanhouser. He joined the company in late 1909 and remained until 1911 before returning in 1912. His
7761293
Clarine Seymour


New York where Seymour found work at the Thanhouser Film Company as a film extra to help support her family. While at Thanhouser, she appeared in two shorts, "Pots-and-Pans Peggy" and "It Happened to Adele". As a result of her work through that company, she obtained work through Pathé in a Pearl White serial. In 1917, Seymour appeared in Pathé's "Mystery of the Double Cross" opposite actress Mollie King. Hal Roach saw her performance and offered her a film contract with
14948072
Daddy's Double


B. Carleton was the stage name of Carleton B. Little, a director who would stay with the Thanhouser Company for a short time, moving to Biograph Company by the summer of 1910. Film historian Q. David Bowers does not attribute either as the director for this particular production, but he does credit Blair Smith as the cameraman. The film is composed of 28 shots, 8 titles and 1 insert. The cast for the film featured Thanhouser's first leading male actor, Frank H. Crane, along with two stage actors, Isabelle
19131947
Documentaries and minor subjects of the Thanhouser Company


Came Back". It was released on April 15, 1910. The film was appended to "A 29-Cent Robbery" and was first split reel released by the company. There is almost no information surrounding the short filler comedy. Film historian Q. David Bowers credits Thanhouser cameraman, Blair Smith, for the photography, but could not find any information about the film in contemporary trade journals. The film was advertised in numerous states, including theaters in Indiana, Kansas, and New York, The second release was another short filler
19650615
Documentaries and minor subjects of the Thanhouser Company


Moving Picture World" based on the overbearing wife's jealousy which drives her husband into eloping with the homeliest girl she could find. The film likely had a wide national release, known advertising theatres include Indiana, and Kansas. The film was also shown in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Shot on June 18, 1910, "Roosevelt's Return" was a production that may not have ever been released by the Thanhouser Company. There are two known announcements for this film, both on June 18. The first is
19650622
The Governor's Daughter


Anna Rosemond and Frank H. Crane. Rosemond was one of two leading ladies for the first year of the company. Crane was also involved in the very beginnings of the Thanhouser Company and acted in numerous productions before becoming a director at Thanhouser. The single reel drama, approximately 985 feet long, was released on June 24, 1910. Advertisements played up the wreck of the $40,000 train car while a positive review in "The Moving Picture World" praised the well-managed production's prison and track wreck scenes, but
2972795
The Mummy (1911 film)


. Cameramen employed by the company during this era included Blair Smith, Carl Louis Gregory, and Alfred H. Moses, Jr. though none are specifically credited. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. According to Bowers the cast credits are unknown, but many Thanhouser productions are fragmentary. Though a production still shows William Russell in the film. In late 1910, the Thanhouser company released a list of the important personalities in their films. The list includes G.W. Abbe, Justus D. Barnes, Frank H. Crane, Irene
6790404
The Fairies' Hallowe'en


company during this era included Blair Smith, Carl Louis Gregory, and Alfred H. Moses, Jr. though none are specifically credited. The role of the cameraman was uncredited in 1910 productions. The only known credit is for Marie Eline in the role of Marie. The other cast credits are unknown, but many 1910 Thanhouser productions are fragmentary. In late 1910, the Thanhouser company released a list of the important personalities in their films. The list includes G.W. Abbe, Justus D. Barnes, Frank H. Crane, Irene Crane, Marie
7467278
She's Done it Again


She's Done it Again is a 1910 American silent short comedy written by Lloyd Lonergan and produced by the Thanhouser Company in New Rochelle, New York. A thief named Sikes decides to rob a society woman who falsely claimed to have been robbed when she in fact pawned her jewelry. A gentleman thief strikes and robs her, but no one believes her. The thief is caught only by a clever detective. The film was the third release of the Thanhouser company and featured the leading players, Anna Rosemond and Frank H. Crane
19034215