The Filming of an Oregon Silent Movie on Mount Hood
I recently came across an intriguing series of photographs documenting the filming of an early Oregon silent movie on Mount Hood. These images capture a crew of photographers and actors reenacting a mining scene. A wooden sluice stands in the background, while men with shovels appear to be panning for gold. Another scene features armed men, seemingly defending their claim.
Dating the Film: Clues from Government Camp
One of the photos provides a key clue about the film’s timeframe. Government Camp is visible in the background, showing Dr. Kelly’s cabin and the old Timberline Climbers Cabin. This structure once stood near the future site of Timberline Lodge. Given these details, I believe the images most likely document the filming of A Nugget in the Rough, a silent movie shot on Mount Hood in 1917.
A Story of Gold Miners
The movie appears to revolve around gold miners. Several images depict men using a sluice to pan for gold on the slopes of Mount Hood. In another, the miners brandish rifles, possibly protecting their claim. After acquiring the photos, I discovered additional scenes filmed in Portland. These town scenes include log buildings, a makeshift settlement, and a saloon filled with miners spending their earnings. A group of “painted ladies” adds to the Old West atmosphere.
Preserving a Piece of Oregon’s Film History
Owning these photos has been both exciting and bittersweet. They offer a rare glimpse into early filmmaking in Oregon, possibly among the first silent films shot in the state. However, I feel disappointed that the collection was split up and separated over time. These images are historically significant, capturing the pioneering days of Oregon cinema.
The story of A Nugget in the Rough and its filming on Mount Hood deserves more recognition. Perhaps, with further research, more details about this lost piece of history can come to light.
