Remembering William Friese-Greene

Bristol remembers motion-picture pioneer William Friese-Greene, 100 years on from his death

Wednesday 5 May 2021, Bristol: Members from Bristol’s film community gathered this morning in remembrance of Bristolian motion-picture pioneer William Friese-Greene, on the 100th anniversary of his death, 5 May 1921.

A socially-distanced gathering took place as part of Bristol Film 2021, the year-long programme launched by Bristol Ideas and Bristol UNESCO City of Film last month to mark the centenary of the inventor’s death and raise awareness of the city’s thriving film and moving image sector today. It was held at City Hall at the plaque which was originally placed on his former home at 12 College Street in 1955 to mark the centenary of his birth and relocated after the house was demolished. The plaque was an initiative of the Bristol Savages, Bristol Civic Society, Western Counties Photographic Federation, Institute of British Photographers, Bristol Amateur Cine Society, Bristol Photographic Society, Bristol Camera Club and citizens of his native city. The Honorary Organiser for the 1955 commemorations was Reece Winstone, the Bristol photographer and author.

Image courtesy of Bhagesh Sachania Photography

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