After Launching Japanese cruiser Chitose(1898) | Colorized

This colorized footage brings to life a historic scene captured near the Union Works in San Francisco, California, in 1898. The film showcases the aftermath of the launch of the Japanese Man-of-war "Chitose." The scene begins with the elegant pleasure yacht "Unadilla" passing gracefully in the foreground, its decks bustling with passengers. As the yacht glides away, the churned water from its screw propeller creates a striking milky trail. The widening perspective reveals additional elements of the harbor: a fishing smack appears on the left, while a small rowboat drifts in the right foreground. The sharp clarity of the original film highlights the vibrancy of this moment in maritime history.

The footage also represents a part of the Southern Pacific Company series, which promoted travel through picturesque southern routes, avoiding harsh winter conditions. These animated scenes, made possible through the collaboration of the Southern Pacific Railroad Company, offer a fascinating glimpse into life and transportation at the turn of the century.

Produced by: Edison Manufacturing Co.
Production and Camera: James H. White, Frederick Blechynden
Collections:

Paper Print Collection (Library of Congress)
Niver (Kemp) Collection (Library of Congress)