TV Pilot Filmed In Historic Beverly-Morgan Park Home

CHICAGO, IL - Teenage filmmakers from around Chicagoland were in Beverly-Morgan Park last month filming a pilot for a television series that's expected to air this fall. Fourteen teens were joined by professional actors at the Ingersoll-Blackwelder House from July 17 until July 20 as part of a project by Fresh Films, a Rock Island-based organization that engages youth behind the camera and creates youth-targeted TV shows, films and original content.

The students worked on a Hollywood-style film set alongside industry professionals, rotating through all on-set positions working in camera, audio, lighting and community among other roles.

"I like how we get to try every different role," said Priya, a student at Lincoln Park High School who was working on her fourth Fresh Films project during the pilot at the Ingersoll-Blackwelder House.

"This is a crazy set," she said. "It's a big house, but it's always challenging for us to fit our big equipment in a particular space."

Paul Shipp, another student with Fresh Films, says he enjoys the challenge.

"I'm pushed to limits I didn't even know I could be pushed to," he said.

Sandra Biedron, a scientist and current owner of the historic Queen Anne Victorian mansion at 109th and Prospect that's previously been home to prominent Chicagoans Gertrude Blackwelder and Jack Simmerling, says this is the first film project that's taken shape there.

“I love how Fresh Films is melding the excitement of film with science and technology," said Biedron, who has taught physics for sound engineers. "There are many careers like VFX, sound engineering, even lights and camera (including controls) that need STEM skills. And having this take place at our Mansion, is a triple win - filmmaking/education/science and technology.”

The Fresh Films pilot that was filmed at the house centers around a young girl who sees ghosts. So naturally, an 1870s-built home like the Ingersoll-Blackwelder House provides a perfect backdrop for the setting.

The TV pilot will be reviewed by executives from Amazon Studios and Disney Channel Original Movies. Find out how to watch the show this fall via Fresh Films.

Photos by Tim Moran / Patch