Films believed to be the oldest in the world will be shown in Washington County next month. The recently refurbished films are part of the collection Washington County couple Frank & Indiana Brinton toured the country with during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The premiere is set for March 6th and 7th at the Ainsworth Opera House, one of the many locations the Brintons presented their films at.

The collection was discovered in a local basement 30 years ago by Michael Zahs. He shares in addition to these films being some of the oldest in the world, they haven’t been seen in over 100 years, and in a few cases, are the only copies in existence.

Zahs adds the short films will be accompanied by new pieces specifically created for the films by Red Cedar Chamber Music. After the premieres, Zahs will take the collection on the road. His stops include Washington D.C. and several cities in Iowa.

Ticket proceeds will go to the Opera House which is celebrating its centennial this year.

To reserve a spot at the 7 p.m. screenings on the 6th and 7th, contact Zahs at 653-6250 or mikezahs@gmail.com.