James Williamson

James Williamson (1855-1933) was a filmmaker, manufacturer, producer, showman and inventor. He was married to Betsy Heaysman and had four children. Although born in Scotland, Williamson moved to Hove in 1886 and was part of the hugely influential Brighton School of cinematography. He made over 100 short films during his career, many of which were shown across Europe and America.

The Barnes Collection has a large selection of apparatus and ephemera relating to James Williamson. This includes a variety of photographs, articles, episcope cards, postcards, cameras and printers. A selection of Williamson's surviving films are shown in the Cinema Gallery at Hove Museum & Art Gallery.

Williamson 'Ensign' 35mm

Cine-Camera, MF000346

Williamson 'Step by Step'

35mm printer, MF000452