SouthWorks Ithaca

06/10/2026

06/10/2026

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.

06/05/2026

06/04/2026

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

04/25/2026

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

04/25/2026

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

04/09/2026

Come get creative with us!