“This is the most important structure connected to [Chicago's] role in the history of motion pictures.”
- Mayor Richard M. Daley
Before there was Hollywood, there was Chicago. The Indiegogo campaign seeks to preserve and revitalize one of the world’s first and last remaining silent film studios and a unique piece of a great city’s history. The restoration and rebirth of the Essanay Film Studio Complex will provide an opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to learn and experience the magic and mystery of early film-making and Chicago’s unique role. It will also extend and expand the studio’s cultural legacy by providing a community space for the performing arts. Last, but far from least, it will enhance the educational mission and prestige of St. Augustine College through its stewardship of this historic site and as a community partner and anchor of the historic Uptown Entertainment District.
The rise of the film industry and Chicago’s leading role is an important story for people in Chicago and beyond. This revitalized Chicago landmark will celebrate the birth and rise of the film era using the latest in talent and technology. It will attract people from across the nation and world who share an interest in the development of film and a great city. And it will expand and extend the studio’s legacy by providing space for educational, performance and other cultural events in cooperation with community groups.
To learn more about or contribute to our campaign, visit our Indiegogo page here.
