"Life of an American Fireman"

A film tribute by Edwin S Porter from 1902

"Life of an American Fireman" is without a doubt a Landmark in Filmaking. It has often been given credit as being the First Story Film and represents major developments of Edwin S Porter as a Pioneer Director.

Another Film Pioneer and Cameraman, James H White was cast in the leading role of the daring fireman and the film shows the Fire Departments from 4 different communities in action.

The 35mm print that is being shown at the LA County Fair was obtained from the Library of Congress Motion Picture and Recorded Sound Division. The film will be exhibited on an original 1909 hand-cranked Power's Cameragraph projector. Randy Munro, aka Mr Projectionist will be in charge of the projection equipment and film as well as sound effects, and will be assisted by Michael Holland, Rick Force and Peter Huggins. "Professor" George C Hall will be accompanying the film with Ragtime piano music and commenting on the history of early film and Zoetropes.