Image: Reel Life, October 3, 1914
Happy Birthdate, Harry A. Pollard!
Harry was born in Kansas on January 23, 1879. He began as a silent film actor, but soon switched to directing. In 1914, he starred in and directed The Dream Ship for Santa Barbara's "Flying A" film studio. This silent movie was filmed at a couple of the million-dollar mansions in Montecito, CA.
The luxurious settings caught a lot of attention. One movie magazine wrote, "The scenes were taken at the residence and grounds of millionaire Gillespie of Montecito, and he generously suggested the use of his treasures. One rug alone was worth $10,000, and the chair used was once the property of a Spanish king. Two pillars were from Pompeii." – Motion Picture News, June 27, 1914