I'm very sad to learn that the great John Bengtson has passed away. John was a giant among film historians and THE man when it came to finding silent movie locations. He was an incredible researcher and sleuth, and a true inspiration. He shared his discoveries in several books and on his YouTube channel, Silent Locations. He was also a very nice guy who was incredibly generous with his time and knowledge. In 2015, he hunted down several locations from Houdini's
The Grim Game. I'll share links below. As a specialized historian, he seems irreplaceable. His work lives on through his books and videos, but he will be missed.
Happy travels, my friend.
Below are some of John's Houdini-related discoveries that I have shared here over the years:
My thoughts are with Mr Bengston's family
ReplyDeleteHeartbreaking! "Irreplaceable" is the word!
ReplyDeleteR.I.P John! And thank you for all your contributions! You will be missed, but never forgotten!!
ReplyDeleteSuperb researcher and contributor to the living archive of magic history. I hope others pursue similar research!
ReplyDeleteRest in heavenly peace
ReplyDeleteI’m crushed by the news. John was an amazing individual and friend. An admired author, historian, speaker, attorney, silent film location guru who had the rare skill of tracing film production to the exact spot where it began. John’s books, lectures and YouTube videos are masterfully produced with wonderful surprises and anecdotes about Lloyd, Chaplin and Keaton. What a loss. RIP my friend. We will miss him.
ReplyDeleteFor those friends and fans of John, having known him for more than 40 years, I can share that he was an even better friend than historian. He was diagnosed with ALS a bit over a year ago and the example he set should be an inspiration to all. Here was part of my final note to him:
ReplyDeleteIf there is to be any solace for you in the trauma you have been forced to endure, it is the example you set for your friends and family as to how one can face, and manage with more grace than I even knew was possible, one of the greatest challenges any of us might be called upon to confront. That may well be your final and greatest gift to those who are fortunate enough to call you friend. Thank you. And, thank you for being a part of my journey.
Based upon your bravery, son of Bengt, I have no doubt that the Valkyries will carry you across Bifrost to Valhalla when the time comes. I will miss you on this side of the Rainbow Bridge. Please make certain you put in a good word for those of us who will be on your tail.
John leaves the world a better place for the time he got to spend with us all.
Thank you for sharing, Mark.
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