Black Maria Studio

The Black Maria Studio was one of the first film production studios in the United States, built in 1911 in New Jersey. Named after the black box-like police vans called "Black Maria," it was used by the Edison Company to produce early silent films. The studio was notable for its rotating roof, which allowed natural sunlight to illuminate the scenes, a crucial feature before electric lighting was common. It played a key role in developing motion picture technology and film production during the early 20th century, helping to shape the foundation of modern filmmaking.