SouthWorks Ithaca

In 1917, Ithaca’s Wharton, Inc. Studio released its fifteen-part wartime serial Patria, starring world-famous dancer and actress Irene Castle, and shot many scenes on location at the Morse Chain Factory on South Hill, where roller chains, bike chains, and WWI aircraft were produced.

A hundred and ten years later, this former factory site is being transformed into SouthWorks, an exciting adaptive reuse that will include retail, housing, workforce development, hiking trails, and food & drink; the antiques mart, Found, has already moved in!

Wharton Studio Museum’s a big fan of this project and its ties to the moviemaking Wharton brothers’ enterprise. We’re grateful to the folks at SouthWorks for collaborating with us and bringing a small photo installation to their office headquarters.

There were many fascinating connections between the industries flourishing in Ithaca in the early part of the 20th century: from the motion picture industry (Wharton Studio) to the Morse Chain factory, to the aviation industry (Thomas Aviation).

WSM looks forward to future collaborations with SouthWorks!

Photo: Irene Castle with her co-star Milton Sills on location during the filming of “Patria” in 1916.

Last week we launched the project newsletter! Take a peek for stories about our Artist in Residence, our first phase of housing with Beacon Communities, and an interview with Found in Ithaca!

https://mailchi.mp/shiftcapital/southworks-may-2026-newsletter

Didn't get it in your inbox? Sign up to receive future issues here: https://southworksithaca.com/news

This group asked great questions! We love hosting curious minds.

I think that can wait until Monday
Be sure to check out the premiere issue of !!

Talent .drag
Photographer .rose.photography
Creative Director
Producer
Production Assistant
Set Designrose.photography

Come get creative with us!

Golden hour moonrise 🌔