J. P. McGowan : John Paterson McGowan.

John Paterson McGowan.

This chap, being 16d0 belatedly recognised in his homeplace Australia as "Hollywood's First Australian", worked almost his entire life in the USA, as actor, director, & writer of films and serials from the early silent days until his death in 1952. Railway and western films were his forte and, as a member of the recently formed J.P. McGowan Society, I am researching his life in the USA. Details of his work is covered quite comprehensively in IMDB, but I am finding it difficult to track down family and personal details. I have recently come across information that Dorrell and Stuart McGowan, who also worked in the film industry, are his sons, both born in Chicago (1899 and 1904).
Any information that could be emailed to me would be greatly appreciated.
Pat Matthews, email: moviemuseum@newave.net.au

Re: John Paterson McGowan.

Pat, tried to email you and it failed. Figured it would. I am probably world's biggest J P McGowan fan. I have movies and directorial efforts like "Outlaw Tamer" and "Beyond the Law" (1930). Beyond the Law is so early there's no music on the opening or closing credits. The sound is very premitive. Up and down. I love the early stuff, no matter who it is. J P McGowan's stuff is very good, he shoots thru trees and wagon wheels. Very fresh. Very good. Wish everyone could know J P McGowan. John
John Mack Flanagan
720 Thornhill Dr.
Colma, Ca. 94015 (San Francisco
650-892-9304

My Book on JP

I swear I have to make myself write the book on this guy! 250 films?!? He worked with John Wayne early on "the Hurricane Express" serial from Mascot Pictures, THE Serial Company! JP acted, Directed, wrote and did so much work!! I've got his pictures; now I have to get his book! (Gonna have to write it myself.) John
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