On Feb. 26, 1923, Charlie Chaplin’s film “The Pilgrim” premiered for the first time across the nation, showcasing Santa Clarita’s Saugus Train Depot.

Over 100 years ago, the Saugus Train Depot in Santa Clarita stole the scene at the beginning of 1923’s “The Pilgrim.” At the time, the Saugus Train Depot sat near the modern intersection of Railroad Avenue and Drayton Avenue, across the street from the Saugus Cafe.

In the movie, silent film star Charlie Chaplin’s character is an escaped convict disguised as a minister trying to evade detection by the sheriff/stationmaster, played by Henry Bergman.

A couple in the film who want to elope then mistake Chaplin for a minister because of his attire. Shortly after, the girl’s father arrives in a rage and chases after Chaplin and the young couple, eventually escorting his daughter home.

At the end of the film, Chaplin is allowed to escape to Mexico after derailing a thief’s ploy to separate Chaplin’s newfound love interest from her life savings.

The 46-minute film was written, directed and produced by Chaplin.

Chaplin’s career spanned more than 75 years, from his childhood in the Victorian Era until a year before his death in 1977, and encompassed both accolades and controversy.

For yesterday’s Today In SCV History, click here.