The Gold Rush

"The Gold Rush" - the film Charlie wanted to be most remembered for was first released on June 26, 1925. It is a four star masterpiece. To view past day picture of hotel Charlie and crew stayed in while filming in the Truckee area click here Summit Hotel Photo. To view BIG photo of NOW location of The Gold Rush opening scene click here BIG Photo . To view original photo of Chilkoot Pass click here Original Chilkoot Pass Photo To visit present day location of opening scene take I-80 East for 90 miles from Sacramento, Ca., take the Soda Springs/Norden exit, drive 3 miles East and look to your right.

Opening Scene
Located and shot by Gerald Smith

1925	1997

UPDATE: May 5, 2005

On April 18, 2005, I returned to Charlie's Gold Rush location with a small group of Chaplin enthusiasts, including my chief T&N pal, David Totheroh, to get a closer look at the location. David had put the entire trip together in a matter of a few weeks, after years of contemplating following the footsteps left by Chaplin and his grandfather, Rollie Totheroh - Chaplin's cameraman, all those years ago.

The trip was a HUGE success. Thank you to all involved. Special thank you to David for setting the wonderful trip up and the friendly folks at Truckee Historical Society, Donner Ski Ranch, Sugar Bowl, Donner Museum, and Sierra Sun; Sierra Sun article about the adventure.

Some photos from the adventure:

Gold Rush

The Gold Rush opening scene location

Trying to find the gold mine, just like Charlie all those years ago

Gold Rush

left to right: Gerald, Bonnie, Chris, Jack, Chris, David and Marian

Gold Rush

Marian getting a lift from David

Gold Rush

left to right: David, Gerald, Marian, Jack and Chris; Donner Museum

Gold Rush

Jack meeting Gordon as David and Chris look on

Gold Rush

left to right: Beverly, Rhea, Jack, Gary, Marian, and Bonnie; East River Inn

Gold Rush

left to right: Rhea, Bonnie, David, Chris, Jack and Marian; East River Inn

Gold Rush

Charlie is always with us; downtown Truckee

Gold Rush

Charlie and crew stayed here during shooting on the summit; Summit Hotel

Gold Rush

Another shot of the Summit Hotel. Note the narrow dark building to the right; hotel's bathroom. Women's on top and men's on the bottom. Maybe one reason for Charlie deciding to head back to the studio...