Warner Bros. Celebrates 100 Years of Film Success and Diversification.
The Warner Brothers, Harry, Sam, Albert, and Jack, were shrewd, brash, outspoken, and passionate in ways that deviated from the industry norm. They started their film business by pooling all their money to buy a projector and a copy of Edwin S. Porter’s The Great Train Robbery (1903). They set up a tent in their yard and invited neighbors and community members to witness the moving images emanating from Sam’s projector. The attraction was a hit, and the brothers needed a more permanent venue. They found a vacant store in Niles, Ohio, and set up shop, hoping to take advantage of the influx of people attracted by the carnival. The Warners’ show was a hit, being the first film ever projected in Niles.