Athlete with Wand (1891) | Colorized Edison Motion Pictures

Athlete with Wand (1894) is a short, silent nonfiction film showcasing a gymnast performing a wand exercise. Filmed at Edison's Black Maria studio in West Orange, New Jersey, this 37-second clip features an athlete from the local Newark Turnverein, a prominent gymnastics association. Directed by W.K.L. Dickson and filmed by William Heise, the film captures a unique display of precision and athleticism, typical of the era's fascination with physical fitness. Although not commercially shown or sold, this early motion picture remains a remarkable example of Edison's innovative contributions to cinema. Now colorized, the short film brings new vibrancy to this historical moment of athletic artistry.