Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum

I attended a birthday party there. I loved the gift shop. We watched a Charlie Chaplin movie in the theater in the back of the museum. The staff were nice and welcoming. I heard that foreigners love checking out this silent movie museum.

A great piece of history! FREE entry. Historical tour by volunteers (donation box near the entrance ). Authentic vintage film items, tour of theatre, and a gift shop. Volunteers are amazing! The theatre shows a silent movie on Saturdays at 7:30 PM (check calendar) with a live pianist.

What an amazing museum and movie theater! There’s so much cool silent film history in here. They have a great collection of old film, cameras, and movie memorabilia. You got to go to one of the silent film, movie showings in the Back theater!

Niles just has History. The day trip was well worth it! As we will venture out ff to watch a silent movie in the near future!!!! Get the tour! Wonderful folks, great knowledge of area. This does not cost a penny. But, privately taken care of, this is worth saving the world of where it seems to have all begun. So donate! Put money in that box for them! Ye, we will return for a movie! Thanks!

One of Fremont's hidden gems...oh how I love this place! Immerse yourself in Fremont's amazing and rich history and connection to the birth of the silent film industry by visiting Essanay. A great little museum for Charlie Chaplin fans/silent film fans and the like...oh and did I mention that they have a theatre inside where you can watch actual silent films on the weekends?! This could make for a really unique date experience for couples looking to try something different too! You won't be disappointed. The staff are all incredibly kind and friendly and happy that you came by! We will be back again and again.

Very nice and intimate movie theater that has that old-fashioned experience when Charle Chaplin was alive playing the, "Tramp"! Homemade popcorn smell permeates the theater. Live piano player and comedy act before the movie plays. Great family activity. As an audiophile, I noticed they use Belle Klipsch speakers for sound reinforcement. Very nice! Great place to visit their museum and watch movies on movie nights on the weekends.

Daycation to Niles, “America’s First Hollywood” This is a hidden gem in Fremont Niles. The Edison Theater was built in 1913 making it a Historic Theatre where Charlie Chaplin filmed 5 movies. In 2004, the newly formed non-profit group Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum was able to rent and begin restoration of the Edison Theater. The Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum sits on the spot of the old studio and features a collection of memorabilia, films, books, posters and photos documenting “America’s first Hollywood.” The Film Museum is more than a repository of photographs, posters, books and artifacts; it is a resource for all facets of silent film-making, from their planning and production to their presentation.

A must visit if you're in the area! Summer 2024 - they reopen on Saturday eves to show silent films! Be sure to check out the quaint historic town with many historic landmarks & RR depot across the street.

Basically the only tourist attraction in Fremont. Criminally underrated place that I only heard about through a chance mention from an Uber driver. They have all kinds of screenings of great films. I just caught It's a Wonderful Life (1946) and intend to come back for Wild Strawberries (1957) and maybe The General (1926) next week. The theater seats are somewhat uncomfortable and the patrons are mostly really old white Boomers, but the latter is understandable given the subject matter and the usual demographic of people interested in this sort of thing. (Plus the general exodus of younger whites from California over the past 10 years and especially since COVID. It's a bit of a bummer for me because it's now much tougher for me to get a white girlfriend. Not that non-white girls aren't wonderful, but you know, I could just go abroad for a better and frankly higher-quality selection. I'm in America for my white girl.) The husband-wife team who run this place (Tony and Rhonda) are great, and everyone's extremely nice. I wish the gift shop had a better selection of old books though. Most of the Blu-rays on sale are superfluous with a Criterion Channel subscription, and the books on sale are pretty boring and seem to be ad hoc sales from people's used book collections. I haven't actually been to the museum proper yet (they're only open weekends 12-4 and I tend to only really wake up on weekend evenings/nights), but I love any theater that airs old films. Those are few and far between these days. The only other ones I know of in the Bay Area are in San Francisco. Once again, I'm totally shocked something like this is in Fremont.

What an incredible spot! This is a time machine to another time. I bet the majority of folks in the Bay Area are unaware of the history of the Niles area and its role as a hotbed of movie-making, particularly in connection with Charlie Chaplin. Forget the Bay Area, I met most folks in Fremont don't know this. I can't recommend this spot enough. And...they still play silent films here.

A very cool and interesting museum. If you ever in Fremont, definitely check out this place. I will be back to see a silent film since they show them every Saturday night.

I've been there several times and if you like silent films, it's the place to go. The history and artifacts are worth a visit even if you don't stay for a film. The staff is warm and friendly.

What a great museum and theater set in a beautiful quaint town. We visited the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum this past Sunday as part of Charlie Chaplin Days, an annual event they hold at the venue, though this was the first time in person since the pandemic. This was a two-day event that included plenty of short film screenings of Charlie Chaplin's work, a walking tour of the Niles, a Charlie Chaplin Trivia Contest, and a Charlie Chaplin Lookalike Contest, as well as extended hours in the museum itself. I didn't realize how much work Charlie Chaplin accomplished here in Niles. They even showed his short film, The Tramp, his last film in Niles, one that portrayed more of an emotional side to him beyond his typical slapstick comedy. I learned so much about the film industry and Charlie Chaplin's history just by listening to the staff/volunteers share interesting fun facts with guests, and browsing through the museum which had a lot of great pieces of history. The gift shop was filled with plenty of books, posters, souvenirs, and specialty gifts, even unique items like a FlipbooKit Maker. The staff was so knowledgeable and friendly, everyone made us feel welcome. Movie screenings on Sunday were a 50 cent donation, self-serve cold canned sodas and bottled water were also available (dollar donation). Food was not available due to COVID.  The Edison Theater was a perfect medium size, intimate but not too small, with standard folding auditorium seating (without drink holders), and some Charlie Chaplin memorabilia lining the back of the theater as well as a few props on stage.  I especially enjoyed the Charlie Chaplin Lookalike Contest on Sunday. It was fun and entertaining, with the participants flaunting goofy mustaches and classic Charlie Chaplin moves. All of the guests who participated won ice cream, some copies of Charlie Chaplin's classic films, and other souvenirs. It was all about having fun. And everybody at the museum, both guests and workers, were really joyful and friendly and just having a good time. The museum and event overall had a really great, positive atmosphere, and I'm so glad I got to experience it.

Came here for their weekly silent film showing. It feels a bit like a cult, with the organizers asking if there are any newcomers and where everyone was from, even a gift for first timers. Only thing missing was passing around a collection basket. Had a great time though, explored the museum before the screening and was given an opportunity to see the projection booth during the intermission. I can't emphasize how great it was to see a silent film with a live pianist, who was fantastic. If you are interested at all in film history, come here! You won't regret it!

I've had this little theatre bookmarked for awhile. I think it's cute they have a live pianist for each silent movie night. I brought friends to watch a comedy shorts night and we were all pleasantly surprised the the museum was fully open for us to walk around at least 30 min before and after the Saturday night showing, since the website indicates that the museum closes at 4pm. The ticket they give you looks like a raffle ticket because there are a few surprise small raffle drawings at the end, which is a nice touch as well! During intermission, they allow you up the back end of the theatre to see the Nickelodeon equipment. Both before and during the showings, we had 2 lovely and entertaining speakers that gave short tidbits about the films we would see, which was nice and unexpected, too. They had great stage presence and this added much value to the experience. They accept credit cards. And there are 3 single-occupant bathrooms available. They also sell fresh popcorn and small packaged snacks. I would definitely return to see another show.

Day trip!! We were on our way back from Palo Alto and decided to stop here on a whim. The museum was free to tour, but they do take donations. The gentleman that was there, Michael, was very informative and gave us the tour. We even got to see the theater and projection room !!! Really brings into perspective, that we have amazing historical gems in our own backyard!! Worth checking out if you are in the area! Can't wait for them to start showing films again!

dropped in after a train ride and had a fun time here. lots of history and memorabilia. they had a Chaplin movie playing during Chaplin weekend, May, and we enjoyed seeing that [skating movie] . Entry is fee and donations optional for the free screening during the day. A+ well done

I doubt if there was a more moving scene in all of silent cinema than the last two minutes of "City Lights" when the Little Tramp inadvertently runs into the girl who regained her eyesight thanks to his self-sacrifice and has since become a successful flower shop owner. He asks her, "You can see now?" to which she responds realizing it was he who helped her, "Yes, I can see now". I cry just thinking about it (video: http://bit.ly/2HRN7lX), but Charlie Chaplin had already been long gone from Essanay Studios fifteen years prior. Did you know in around 1915, he filmed his first starring vehicles as the Little Tramp in Niles of all places and became a cultural phenomenon? This little known piece of trivia is celebrated in this reconverted nickelodeon on Niles Blvd. about half a block away from the original Essanay Studios. I've heard of this museum for years but since it's a fair distance from 880, I never found an excuse to visit Niles, a historical neighborhood with a lot of Mayberry-like charm. I have to admit there was a ramshackle look to the place that really didn't endear me to the space, especially the cluttered consignment look of the gift shop with vintage magazines and even clothing for sale (photo: http://bit.ly/2prAION). On the left side of the building is quite a collection of period movie cameras and projectors (photo: http://bit.ly/2u6Pq2r). On the plus side is the enthusiastic and fully informed docent who will find you no matter where you are and start talking about the history and the story behind each artifact. He guided me through the room behind the theater which spotlight the nearby locations used during the various productions. Chaplin was basically everywhere from San Francisco to Niles Canyon (photo: http://bit.ly/2IE65xJ). He took me upstairs to the projection room (photo: http://bit.ly/2DHMdWH). The theater has plenty of seating (photo: http://bit.ly/2IE7dBt), and they show silent films on Saturday nights just like they did back before World War I when couples would go out for phosphates afterward. Definitely a niche museum but worthwhile if early, early film history is your thing.

The teenager "in charge" accused me of stealing a vinyl record (that I had bought at the store down the street) as I was leaving the gift shop (even though they don't sell vinyls.) I bought a sticker from the same dude and paid with cash. With tax, it was $5.51. I pulled out a $20 and he was bragging on how he was able to count back change because his "mom taught him." I told him I was going to look for a penny but it did not dawn on him the implications of what that would mean as he continued to pull out pennies from the drawer. He gave me back $13.49 in change and I told him that was incorrect. Flustered he tried again, and again came to the same wrong conclusion. I had to bust out my calculator to prove to him he was short a buck. "At least I got the change part right which is the most important thing" he smugly said. I said "no, the dollars are more important". This experience there was the highlight of my trip. Worth visiting especially if you pay with cash. Not a good representative for the museum.

This extraordinary gem is a cinematic treasure trove from a Bygone Era that needs far more exposure and recognition. Words cannot convey my appreciation to both the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum and its lovely team of archivists who bend over backwards to make everyone feel welcome. Niles Essanay Studios was where Charlie Chaplin got his cinematic start in America and this museum pays homage to both those in front of and behind the camera. In addition to a stellar array of vintage filming and projection equipment, housed within the expanse of several large rooms in a relatively compact museum, you will see familiar and forgotten faces and the items used by giants of the silent film era. To add to the novelty, there is even a working Silent Screen Theatre in the rear of the building that regularly shows a stream of classic silent films, such as "The Four Horseman of the Apocalypse" and Charlie Chaplin's "The Tramp," which was filmed in Niles. The museum also features guest visitors, including book authors and presenters specialising in the era before Talkies. The Niles Essanay Museum is also involved in philanthropic efforts, including support for the last living silent screen star, Diana Serra Cary, who is best remembered as the great Baby Peggy. Located close to Fremont, in the southeastern San Francisco Bay Area, in the vintage town of Niles, the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum adds even more to the character of a town that also has a railway museum, antique stores, an English Tea Room and other restored vintage venues. The museum is still growing and the team there are doing a fantastic job of expanding beyond their fledgling beginnings. Their gift shop cannot be missed, with its array of memorabilia and excellent allotment of books. It is very much worth a visit and can be part of a day trip to Niles for anyone living in or visiting the San Francisco Bay Area. A special thanks also goes out to the team there who went to great lengths to ensure the return of my driving license and credit card that I left behind just before my return to Britain!

This is an adorable local attraction. I had been meaning to check this place out as I had seen the sign for movie screenings on Saturday night - movies are shown with a live pianist! The inside is quaint and cute and I got the vibe that most people watching were film buffs, unlike me who just wanted to check out something new. They sold popcorn and snacks at the door, I believe the popcorn was just $1. The showings were actually kind of long so we left before the last film was done. They do share a bit about the silent film era so it was educational too. Overall, we had a good time. And by we I mean I was there on a date so I'd say this is a good date spot if you and your date like to do quirky things. Street parking is easy and free. a shame there aren't a ton of dinner spots near by

Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum is located in the Niles District of Fremont. It is a place that celebrates the history of silent films and the era's brightest star, the one and only Charlie Chaplin. Did you know Chaplin actually made a few films in Fremont and had set foot in this very museum, back when it was a part of Eassany Film Company? I certainly had no idea until my visit today! The museum is full of cool pictures, memorabilia, and old cameras and movie projectors. Visitors are welcome to browse and take pictures of all the cool stuff. During my visit today, one of the museum's volunteers gave me and my group the grand tour of the place. It was absolutely captivating to listen to him talk about the history of silent films, Essanay Film Company, and Chaplin's work. There is no charge to enter the museum. Tours are given on Saturdays and Sundays between 12:00pm and 4:00pm. They also have silent film screening every Saturday at 7:30pm. I believe they charge $7 or so for that. If you love movies and cinematic history, you must visit this cool little gem in Fremont! I'm glad I did!!

The museum is a lot of fun. There are a lot of cool artifacts of the old films that were made there and so many cool toys. I got a poster and a flip card animation box that my students enjoy playing with. The theater is towards the back and makes a great place to explore some films. I was lucky enough to be there for the Charlie Chaplin days and participate in a look a like contest. The museum staff treated us out to some sweets from down the street and to some of the material they produce there. Great fun in a great little town.

A rare nostalgic gem... Silent, black n white film. #charliechapman Quiet quaint visit to "Niles". If you are thinking for a quick but quiet stroll visit Niles. Lots of antique shops too. Enjoy.

We visited the museum for a tour, and enjoyed it so much that we returned to celebrate Baby Peggy's 99th birthday! Seriously, she was there in person! One of my favorite silent film stars, and probably the last major silent film star around. What a great time! We had cake, punch, and of course, Baby Peggy films accompanied by a fantastic pianist! Wish I'd known of this place sooner. We'll go back for sure! The gift shop is pretty cool, too. It's really big. Realize that this is not just a museum; it's the site of silent filmmaking and has all the memorabilia you could ask to see. If you're a silent film fan, check it out!

glad to have discovered this place with friends. We were having brunch across the street one morning when we noticed this museum. We went over and discovered a treasure trove of history regarding the silent film era in Niles! They told us they showed silent movies on Saturday nights with piano player and all. We made it there the next Saturday and had a great time! For $7 we had two hours of entertainment with classic silent films, live piano, a tour of the old theater as well as the projection room with original fire protection gear. It was really a lot of fun! We were very entertained and I learned a lot about silent films. Definitely something fun to do on a Saturday with friends!

Small tiny museum filled with lots of information and film fanatics. You don't have to know anything about film to visit this gem. They have cool props that Charlie Chaplin actually used and old school cameras and memorabilia. There is also a fun gift shop too with tons of random varieties of things from t-shirts, little flip books and more. I was almost tempted to buy some random stuff like a little fish fortune teller but I stopped myself because I already have too much stuff. HAH. Prices for the gift shop are something that you would normally see at a tourist attraction but the ones here are slightly a bit cheaper. Spent a good 30 minutes or so here while waiting to have brunch next door. Would definitely recommend this place if you're looking for something to do in the area! Best part: IT'S FREE! (If you do want to see a movie it's going to cost you, but not too much). Might come back again to check it out if i'm in the area because I didn't get to read everything (was too hungry for food and didn't want to miss my named being called for brunch!)

I like film. I like museums. And I especially like this film museum. It's great being able to enter and learn all about the history of the silent film industry that resided in Nor-Cal. On top of that, they also have special showings of silent film every saturday. You definitely owe it yourself to watch 'The General' with an audience in your lifetime. Its also a free experience as well too with a optional donation fee too. Also after you check out the museum, you can walk down the Niles street for an antique thrift shop experience too!!

An off beat experience of the silent film world. A great short tour about Charlie Chaplins brief stay in Fremont California, history of silent film industry, and learned that the theatre shows silent movies every Saturday night with live piano. Very fun! No cost to get in but donations accepted. The theatre is located in Niles; small antique shops, Devout Cafe, and free parking.

Once again I'd like to encourage people to come to one of their showings. They just renovated their seats. They still have cushions to add to your comfort All refreshments are $1, except for ice cream novelties ($1.50) Great candy and drink selection plus freshly popped popcorn! Happy 10th Anniversary to the fabulous Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum!!!! Since 2005 they have been showing silent movies (with live piano accompaniment) every Saturday night! They have the mosy enthusiastic and devoted group of volunteers! We attended the January 24th show. Although the prints are not always "pristine" we really appreciate seeing the films that you may not see elsewhere. The show for the 24th was: UNDERWORLD (1927) Directed by Josef Von Steinberg Starring George Bancroft, Clive Brook and Evelyn Breht One of the first gangster movies. Fascinating. The actors were supreme in showing their sinister manners. No high tech shoot outs or other FX effects. LUCKY STRIKE (1915) One of Oliver Hardy's first roles. Hardy stars as a miner who has come into a lot of money. When he goes to a town to meet his sweetheart (through mail) mix-ups, rejection and happiness abounds! HIS NEW JOB (1915) Starring Charlie Chaplin as an actor who disguises himself as the lead actor. Judy Rosenberg played the piano that night, She improvised the music as she watched the movie. She has so much heartfelt energy. All of the pianists are awesome!

I don't want to ruin the tour, so I will be brief with this review. 1. This is a 501c3 non-profit 2. They run on donations 3. Everyone who works here is a volunteer and very knowledgeable about the history of Essanay, nickelodeons, the film industry, and Fremont history. 4. I learned more about Fremont and old school Hollywood in this one hour tour. 5. On Saturday nights, they entertain you for 2 hours with a variety of short films, comedies, etc. Check their calendar to see what the theme is for the night. All of this for only a $5 donation! 6. Only place in the WORLD to consistently run silent films. 7. The tour guides are amazing. 8. They have a really neat gift shop. 9. If you want to come for the comedy night on Saturdays- buy your tickets in advance. I was informed that the tickets for these nights sell out fast. If you want to purchase your tickets online, make sure to buy them by Thursday afternoon. Thursday afternoon is when they take down the PayPal account to make sure they do not go over capacity. If you love old movies, especially from the Chaplin era, you will really enjoy this place. I loved looking at all the original movie posters located in the back room. The posters in the front are replicated since the originals are sensitive to light. I thought it was really cool how they had so many original items displayed. They even had film negatives and our tour guide explained the differences between silent film negatives, color film negatives, and films with sound negatives. I was impressed by how much I learned from the tour! When I was walking out, I noticed an amazing painting: http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/niles-essanay-silent-film-museum-fremont?select=8ezbKnaLOOS7_ORqdND-SQ#bO0Vhr1_e12mkUoTOQ99Pw The woman working told me it was made by a local Fremont artist by the name of Laura Ramie. Now let me tell you about Laura- I graduated high school with her (woo hoo c/o 2007 WHS!). She is an amazingly talented young woman. Even in high school, her art work was absolute stunning. She is incredibly humble and her talent is immeasurable. I urge you to take a look at this mural she did in Fremont of the Essanay movie stars: http://www.ednapurviance.org/specialevents/lauraramie_nilemural.html I love that this place not only has a rich film history, but also shows support for local artists like Laura Ramie! Definitely worth stopping by- it's free (but please try to give a donation of some sort since all the people who work here are volunteers) and it is a great way to learn about Fremont and a part of film history! Guess that wasn't a very brief review after all...ha.

Very cute little museum on Niles. They offer a very mini tour and have many functions and silent movies you can check out on their monthky news letter. Stop by take a peek and donate a buck or two.

I am a Niles resident since 1986 and have passed this little theater many times in and even looked into the museum and purchased items in their store but was guilty of never attending a showing. This last Saturday night I took my reluctant wife there and discovered what I had been missing! I was afforded an informal tour of the museum and the equipment on display and the back story on photographs of the era by the NilesFIlmMuseum.org Vice President before the evenings entertainment. There were speakers who communicated the beginnings of the org, the restoration of the building and parking lot they were gifted, and the work they are undertaking to catalog a huge volume of films prior to streaming them on the internet. I did win a item in their drawing and even got a personally guided tour of the projection room by projectionist "Dorthy". The $8 admission won't break anyone and everyone was entertained. I will be back soon for more comedies! Try it!

I can't say this is the most thrilling museum. I get that silent film is a huge part of the history of movies, and that the era underwent technology change unlike any before. Still, I have a hard time relating to Charlie Chaplin and friends. The place is worth a look, but only for about 10 minutes unless you're really into this stuff. The docent was trying to be a smartass too, which hardly helped matters. So in summary, definitely visit for the Niles experience, but don't stay too long.

This little museum deserves some attention and it's FREE to visit. It was featured in VIA magazine as one of the reader's favorite exceptional small-town museums. Back in the olden days Charlie Chaplin made 4 films in Niles, one of his more famous one was "The Tramp". We got there a little after noon Sat. and the lady asked us if we wanted a tour, sure. She then gave us some info about the place, showed us the pictures hanging on the wall, then she had a volunteer guy help us since she had to get back to the front. He was really good and enthusiastic about the history of the silent films. There is a tin-lined projection booth, hand-cranked projectors, photos of Charlie Chaplin & Broncho Billy. He took us to where more historical stuff were in glass cases, he pointed out where they show the silent films (for a small fee on Saturday nights @ 7:30pm), and the upstairs where the projectors are. Hrs: 12-4 Sat and Sun Movies shown Sat 7:30pm (cost $5-$10 depending on film, plus a live pianist plays) website: http://www.nilesfilmmuseum.org/ They have been around for 2 yrs and plan to make some more changes to bring back the original look of the place.

Fremont had a movie studio? Chaplin lived in the area? Who knew? I guess Fremont is cooler than I thought. I attended the Charlie Chaplin festival (1st weekend in June) & it was great. The museum is run by volunteers & they hold a wealth of information. I watched "The Kid" which is a very touching/funny Chaplin movie. I'm not too familiar with silent films & I've only seen short clips from the Robert Downy Jr. Chaplin film. Having said this, I think I'm hooked. It was a very neat experience. The live piano accompaniment was amazing. The museum has these beautiful watercolor paintings & pictures of movie sets that were located right here in Fremont! The theater seats have a slot on the bottom for men's hat because as you know gentlemen would wear hats. It had never even occurred to me where men placed their hats when attending the theater back in the day. The cost is only $5. An evening of entertainment for $5?! That's unheard of! Shows are every Saturday night (7:30 p.m.) & throughout the day during festivals or special events. Check out the Tri-City Voice for information & showtimes.

Wow, this museum and theater is super rad and filled with amazing history! I don't watch a lot of movies in general, but I couldn't pass up an invitation to check out what would be my first silent film screening. Not knowing what to expect, I could only hope and pray that I wouldn't doze off and snore in the middle of the silent film. Fortunately, the comedy silent films were fantastic and the live piano accompaniment was just freakin' awesome. During the intermission, they even offer a tour of the tiny projection room. Like another Yelper mentioned, I wish the intermission was a little shorter and wasn't as drawn out with the staff person's speech and raffle prizes. Also, if you're particular about movie genres, IMDB the films beforehand. I found the comedy silent films to be much more entertaining the ones that weren't. That said, I love the fact that there's a historic place like this in the Bay Area that offers a one-of-a-kind experience. I mean, there people came from as far as the North Bay and Southern California to check out this screening! Gotta love how there are passionate folks who are into preserving and promoting the silent film era. Check out the museum's website for screening schedule.

It's not just a museum, but a theater too. If you are a Fremont native you probably know that a number of silent films, some staring Charlie Chapin, were filmed in Niles Canyon. They play silent movies with live accompaniment often, and it is cheaper than the Century theaters. If you are a movie buff or lover of silent films this place is worth a look.

I love this theater/museum. It's only $5 and each refreshment is $1 each. You cannot beat it! The piano player who does the soundtrack to these films is awesome as well. The staff are great - you can tell they love what they do. If you love old silent movies and you're looking for some good entertainment, stop in. It's totally worth it. People came as far as Paris to go here! The store here also has some really cool stuff. Everything is reasonably priced. It fits only 100 people so I suggest getting here about a half hour early before a show to secure a spot. I will definitely be back.

Good times. Caught the pre-code follies. Fun clips from the late 1920's... old flickers were pretty entertaining. Intermission pianist was loads of fun too, she's got a great personality and voice. Little long though to be sitting in those stiff seats. Check out the old camera equipment in the back of the theatre.

This is such a cute museum about early film making and then to watch silent movies. They enjoy what they do and their enthusiasm is contagious. It is so much fun to watch the silent films with the fabulous live piano accompaniment. I am sure all are wonderful but we have been lucky enough to listen to Frederick Hodges. That is a long time to play straight and the music is tricky. It also adds so much to have the live music the way the movies were originally experienced. Look at the website to see what special events they have planned. They show the projection room during intermission. It is fascinating to see the equipment they have and to learn the history of film making. Highly recommend! I was not sure how much I would enjoy silent movies but I have enjoyed them. I have a new respect for all that went in to making silent films.

A Silent Film Museum, how cool! Admission was advertised on the outside as free, so I thought it would be nice to just check out. We were just planning on going inside quickly, but we were the only two people there so the volunteer insisted on giving us a tour. The inside was interesting, especially the original film booth that is lined with metal to prevent fires. They have a huge selection of silent films, which they apparently show inside the little theater with piano accompaniment! Honestly though, the museum itself didn't have much else that held my interest. If we had given ourselves a self-tour, it probably would have taken 5 minutes. The volunteer was super nice and informative, but we kind of felt pressured to donate at the end of the tour. The history of Niles is interesting and all, but I think I'd need a deeper appreciation of silent films to really enjoy the museum.

What a treat! You can even get a modern day silent movie on DVD with cast and crew members in the audience around you. I don't have a DVD player so the DVD would not have been useful but I was so delighted I handed over $20 just to let them know they're appreciated. It was my first visit and it was their 13th anniversary so it lasted much longer than I expected but it was worth getting home late. The pianist is AMAZING. The host and hostess know everything there is to know about Niles' part in film history and more. The seats are very hard and seem to get harder if the show goes long and I noticed that at least one of the "regulars" brought a pillow. Not a bad idea!

Cute little museum...very cool to learn what went on in the silent film world in Niles, back in the day! Whoddha thunk!!! The gift shop is fun and the tour informative!!!

I don't see how anyone can justify giving this place less than 5 stars. You get to experience silent films in a historic location with a live piano player, just how it was a hundred years ago. Best of all, the entrance fee is VERY inexpensive! I see people's reviews about feeling pressured to give a donation for a tour, workers not living up to their expectations, etc. These over-privileged people need to be slapped. This is place is an under-appreciated, affordable, accessible, awesome, historical site that is relevant to our American history. We're lucky to have this museum/theater and that the people working here are willing to do so for such an affordable price! The only places I can compare this to are the other historic theaters such as Stanford Theater in Palo Alto; however, those theaters don't have a shop where you can buy memorabilia. They also don't have regular tours that take you to the projector room. Most of all, they don't regularly feature the comedy shorts of Laurel and Hardy, Buster Keaton, etc. This place is a true gem, and I come here whenever I have the chance (usually for Laurel and Hardy and Buster Keaton films).

Please note that this review is strictly for the Saturday Night Movie events. I've been coming to the Saturday Night Movie (Comedy Shorts night especially) for a few years now. It was always a lot of fun. Over the past year, however, I've noticed a change. A lot more talking before they actually show the films and during intermission. Excessive talking. They used to just give a short schpiel about the theater and then introduce the films they were going to show. Now, they go into uneccesary detail. I really don't think telling the audience the entire life story and career history about Hal Roach is neccessary in order to enjoy his films. On one movie night, their PR person went on and on and on about "Save Niles Canyon," beating us over the head about it. It was ridiculous. Movie night is not the time and place to gripe and organize a protest for highway plans, lady. On November 19th, they had a "book signing" event going on the same night as the comedy shorts night. So I assumed they were going to have the author(s) there, signing books before the films. Which they did, but they also had a READING of the book and 3 speakers PLUS 2 more musuem volunteers talking endlessly for over half an hour. It was painful. They started the films late that night. And that's the films they showed that night were a huge let-down too. No Charlie Chaplain shorts or Buster Keaton on COMEDY night?!? Overall, movie night at the museum has become less about showing movies and more about force-feeding the audience film history and shoving their personal agendas down your throat. So, please, please, please, Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum: just introduce the films BRIEFLY and just SHOW them. Oh, and for the love of god, take the microphone away from Rena. P.s. Niles is just a district of FREMONT. You people call it Niles as if it was its own seprate city with such an air of snobbery. It's Fremont.

Oh.. so fun... wouldn't you just to sit back.. eat some 25 cent popcorn and $1 cokes and watch some old Charlie Chaplin? The films here are all for the silver screen type that love silents popped off with either live organ or piano. Trust me.. this place is fun.. unique and if you have never seen a classic film like it used to be shown.. you gotta go, you swear, you'll feel like you are part of a laugh track. The chairs are exactly as old school as the showing room. So remember to grab yourself a nice cushion to place behind you on the chair. Old school reel are generally short, like maybe 15 or 20 minutes short... so usually, they will show at least two movies...which in itself is quite a deal. Inside too.. there is a wonderful gift shop complete with books, dvd, post cards and various other similar interesting curios that you might want to take home. Don't forget that small nice well behaved pets are allowed.. but please if you have a mean obnoxious dog.. leave it home.

Stocking stuffer needs? Wondering what to get the kids in your life (when you weary of electronic junk that endlessly beeps)? Miss the old days of simple wooden toys and jacks? Enjoy supporting cinema preservation? Do you like flip books? Wishing the young people in your life had access to the funny movies that you (or your grandpa) loved? If those question yield a 'yes' from you, I recommend the gift shop at the Niles Essanay silent Film Museum. My gift needs were for young relatives in Europe. Being as they were all in the under-five set, toys appealing to English speakers only wouldn't go very far. I was delighted to see a great range of flip books. Pictures require no translation! There are tons of very affordable treats, and a few nicer ones too. While I saw a lot more that I would have loved gifting, the deficits in my pocketbook stopped me.

Unique place to watch old silent films, notably Charlie Chaplin. The store has some very very awesome items. A must stop if you are in the Niles District.

In the site of the old Edison Theater this area used to be call "Hollywoodland North" back in the 20-40's then unfortunately the silent films when Niles became something of a ghost-town then got devoured by beheamoth suburb Fremont. This musuem is in it's own words "dedicated support to the quest of finding, preserving and sharing the history of Niles, especially as it relates to film" and does a very good job of just that. Visiting this place is a must for local Charlie Chaplin fans, and you can combine it with a stroll through the rest of quaint Niles OR if you're a nature nut or REI or active lifestyles person with a picnic and strenous hike up Mission Peak http://www.ci.fremont.ca.us/Recreation/MissionPeak/default.htm or around Coyote Hills which is part of the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. As for the museum I used to go as a kid and can't believe it's been fixed and open again. Saturday nights then have double bills of some of the best silent films ever!

I can't believe I have never heard of this place until recently and I gre up in Fremont! Definitely a hidden gem! I grew up watching Charlie Chaplin films as my parents are huge fans. I finally made the trek here for Chaplin Days last Sunday. My friend and I caught two of the short films, one being the infamous The Tramp. Honestly, I expected more festivities given it was a special occasion there. It was a great experience nonetheless, especially with the Chaplin impostor! Will definitely come back with my parents when they are showing Chaplin films again.

I have been searching for a place that shows silent films because we all know how much of a "big city" Sacramento is and how you rarely see silent films here. That being said, I am so thrilled I discovered this hidden treasure. I'm kicking myself for not finding this place sooner. I spent at least an hour in the gift shop drooling...posters, DVD's, books, t-shirts, silent film memorabilia like you wouldn't believe! The docents really know their stuff-I was asking a lot of questions to learn about the area. I have been to several events here in the last month-the refreshments are reasonably priced, 3 bathrooms and "cushions for your tushions" in the theatre. Check out their calendar for events-if you're a silent film fan this place is a must! These guys are non-profit and work their patooties off to preserve the history and films. Many thanks to them and their hard work. You're well worth the drive from Sacramento!

If you're any kind of film enthusiast you must hit this place for their Saturday night silent movie fest. There's live piano accompaniment and it's only $5 for 2 hours of movies. The films are in pretty good condition and they have people who seem pretty knowledgeable introducing the films. There's an intermission where you're free to use the restrooms or to look at some of their museum exhibits, which is kinda neat. They also have a raffle where you can win some of the stuff they sell in the store. If you've never seen a silent movie before check this place out on one of their comedy nights and be prepared to laugh your ass off.

Visited for the first time on a Saturday evening to see a Douglas Fairbanks film which featured excellent piano accompaniment. It is a great little volunteer-run museum with a wonderful gift shop. Charlie Chaplin on spent a few months here but during that time made his most famous film, The Tramp. Disagree with reviewer who said it is not family friendly . Two young boys about 9 or 10 were fascinated with the vintage cameras as a docent explained how they work. However it is not an experience preschoolers would enjoy, silent movies are silent, that should apply to the audience as well.

This is a great museum and theater to see silent films. They give lectures about the movies and their history.

This was fun! You NEED to snag a docent to show you around the museum, and you should do this before having dinner and returning for Saturday evening silent movies, complete with a live pianist and intermission (with a fun little raffle game). I felt like I'd gone somewhere really far away and been away a long time :) PS eat at Bronco Billy's pizza!

Such a blessed treasure for film fanatics, historians, seekers of unusual adventures, and those looking for fun on the cheap. My pals and I were led through a fantastic tour of photographs of the town, the studios, the stars-- each well-narrated by the enthusiastic guide-- the screening room, a room full of old film cameras and memorabilia, and then, !!holy smokes!! up to the original turn-of-the-century projection room, lined with tin and adorned with century-old graffiti! When have you EVER been in one of those? The gift shop is a one-stop paradise of Silent Era DVDs, books (new and used), toys, postcards and a bumpersticker that reads, "Films Have The Right To Remain Silent!" Bonus: just a few blocks away is a nice park for strolling, fishing, BBQs-- make it a family field trip!