Post One- 5 defining moments of cinema pre-1930

1. 1891- William K.L. Dickson

 This is the first public demonstration of motion picture in the United States. Dickson directed, produced and starred in the 3 second clip which involved passing his hat from the front of his body to behind, alternating hands. This clip was recorded in the photographic building at Edison’s Black Maria studio, New Jersey and was first displayed to the National Federation of Women’s Clubs on May 20^th 1891. As the clip is the first public demonstration of motion picture, Dickson’s movement on screen is a perfect metaphor inviting the world to a future of motion picture. 

http://mubi.com/films/39492
Accessed 18/02/2011