During the silent film era, nearly 400 movies were produced in North Carolina.The center of North Carolina silent movie making may surprise you: Bat Cave. Nearly every major film company of the era sent companies to this rugged and beautiful spot. Between 1912 and the mid-‘20s, more than 50 movies were produced there. Every one of those companies lodged at the historic Esmeralda Inn.

On Feb.1, 2020, some of these incredibly rare films will return to the Esmeralda for a special evening called “Bat Cave’s Silent Movie Era.”

Featuring Film historian and North Carolina silent film authority Frank Thompson.