Intern Finds Forgotten Silent Film Featuring Abraham Lincoln
Rediscovered Masterpiece: The Lost Silent Film ‘The Heart of Lincoln’ Discovered After a Century
In an exhilarating twist that could inspire its own film adaptation, a rare segment of American cinematic history has emerged from obscurity. Dan Martin, an intern concluding his final week at Historic Films Archive on Long Island, made an astonishing find that has ignited enthusiasm among film historians and archivists: the only known surviving copy of a silent film long thought to be lost—The Heart of Lincoln.
The Rediscovery
Martin was sorting through a vast donation of around 10,000 vintage educational and historical films when he stumbled upon five metal canisters marked only with reel numbers. A closer examination of the reels uncovered a 65-minute silent film titled The Heart of Lincoln—believed to have disappeared nearly a century ago and previously cataloged among the thousands of lost silent films by the Library of Congress.
This cinematic treasure, originally filmed in 1915 and adjusted for re-release in 1922, is one of over 7,000 silent films once considered irretrievably lost. The shocking discovery not only revives a long-lost narrative but also rekindles interest in the pioneers of cinema whose contributions are at risk of fading into obscurity.
Francis Ford: A Neglected Filmmaker
While Henry Ford transformed transportation, his brother Francis Ford played a pivotal role in shaping early American cinema. As both the director and star of The Heart of Lincoln, he portrayed Abraham Lincoln—a role for which he became quite renowned. In fact, Ford embodied the 16th president in at least nine silent films throughout his career.
Overshadowed by his younger brother John Ford—one of Hollywood’s most significant filmmakers—Francis Ford’s contributions often remained overlooked. Nevertheless, he was a vital figure in the silent era, weaving fictional narratives with contemporary topics and historical reflection.
The Storyline and Cultural Significance
The Heart of Lincoln narrates the invented (yet deeply moving) tale of a widow who had once offered refuge to a young Lincoln during a fierce storm. Years later, amid the turmoil of the Civil War, her grown son is accused of espionage after being seized by Union forces. Lincoln, recalling the kindness once extended to him, intervenes and saves the young man’s life.
The film portrays both Lincoln’s humanitarian spirit and the intense struggles of a divided nation—a moving meditation on mercy and memory. Although fictional, it resonates with widespread representations of Lincoln as not just a leader but also a man of profound gratitude and ethical principles.
The State of Silent Film Preservation
Silent films were produced in an era when the medium was still in its experimental phase, and sadly, preservation was seldom prioritized. Created on highly flammable and deteriorating nitrate film stock, countless silent films were either destroyed, decayed beyond salvage, or lost to studio fires. According to the Library of Congress, of the nearly 11,000 American silent films made between 1912 and 1929, only 3,300 still exist in any form—whether print, negative, or fragment.
The discovery of The Heart of Lincoln serves as a symbol of hope amid this cultural depletion. Its preservation is a fortunate turn of events—the reels had been kept in sealed canisters that shielded them from moisture and air, likely preventing degradation.
Next Steps: Restoration and Public Access
Joe Lauro, the proprietor of Historic Films Archive, intends to commission a new musical score for the film and initiate the digital restoration procedure. Following completion, the reels will be donated to the Library of Congress, ensuring that the film is preserved in its authentic format and made available to contemporary audiences via digital platforms.
This rediscovery has fueled renewed interest in early portrayals of presidents in film and in the life and contributions of Francis Ford. It also stands as a compelling testament to the significance of internships, archival endeavors, and film preservation efforts.
Portrait of a Legacy
More than a mere historical artifact, The Heart of Lincoln exemplifies storytelling—a connection between the nation’s past and its cinematic heritage. By showcasing the lasting legacy of Abraham Lincoln and highlighting early 20th-century film artistry, the film enriches America’s cultural memory.
From an intern’s meticulous observations to an archive’s dusty shelf, the journey of this silent film parallels its own narrative—where a minor act leads to a monumental influence. As it approaches a new audience in the digital era, The Heart of Lincoln may once again capture the hearts of its viewers, over 100 years after it first illuminated the silver screen.
For more restored historic films and updates, visit Historic Films Archive’s official website or their YouTube channel.
📽️ Watch vintage films on the Historic Films Archive YouTube channel
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