The Thomas A. Edison Papers Digital Edition

[Because of the large number of clippings in this scrapbook, it has been indexed in two parts. This note covers both parts.]

This scrapbook contains newspaper clippings from December 1912-March 1913 concerning Edison's kinetophone (motion pictures synchronized with phonograph recordings). Included are articles relating to Edison's initial demonstration of the kinetophone; his prediction that it would end live theater; the negotiation of exhibition contracts with B. F. Keith's and other vaudeville houses; and the enthusiastic public reception of the first kinetophone shows in New York City and other large cities. Also included are clippings about the claims of rival inventors Edward H. Amet and Leon Gaumont; plans to make a talking picture of the inauguration of President Woodrow Wilson; and descriptions of the kinetophone's mechanical operation. An article in Variety (February 15, 1913) provides insight as to why the kinetophone was not ultimately successful. There are multiple versions from numerous newspapers of most of the stories. The book is continued by Scrapbook, Cat. 44,490. Similar clippings can also be found in Scrapbook, Cat. 1158 [not selected]. The pages are unnumbered. Approximately 160 pages have been used.