An epic train chase is turning 100 — and Buster Keaton fans are celebrating
Fans of silent film star Buster Keaton gathered in Cottage Grove, Oregon, to celebrate the centennial of his classic film, The General. The event featured cosplay, historical discussions, and 1920s-themed entertainment.
Why it matters
The celebration highlights the enduring cultural legacy of silent cinema and the role of local communities in preserving film history.
The South wasn't in a laughing mood after the Civil War, so silent film star and comedian Buster Keaton went west. To make a film based on a real wartime train chase, he ended up in Cottage Grove, Ore.
This past weekend, about 80 Keaton fans gathered in the small rural city to celebrate Keaton's move, which led to his critically-acclaimed film, The General . They wore porkpie or straw hats, discussed favorite scenes, and learned how to do the Charleston as the Eugene-based band The Fat Dandelions played 1920s jazz through the evening.
They call themselves "Damfinos." (Whenever Keaton was hit up for an answer he didn't readily have, he'd say "damfino" — as in, "damned if I know.")
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