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-The Project Gutenberg eBook of Monarchs of minstrelsy, from "Daddy"
-Rice to date, by Edward Le Roy Rice
-
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and
-most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
-whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms
-of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
-www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you
-will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before
-using this eBook.
-
-Title: Monarchs of minstrelsy, from "Daddy" Rice to date
-
-Author: Edward Le Roy Rice
-
-Release Date: January 18, 2023 [eBook #69826]
-
-Language: English
-
-Produced by: deaurider, Harry Lamé and the Online Distributed
- Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was
- produced from images generously made available by The
- Internet Archive)
-
-*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MONARCHS OF MINSTRELSY, FROM
-"DADDY" RICE TO DATE ***
-
-
-
- Transcriber’s Notes
-
- The following transcription coding has been used:
- _underscores_ represent italic text
- =equal signs= represent bold face text
- +plus signs+ represent underlined text
- ~tildes~ represent blackletter text
-
- Small capitals have been replaced with ALL CAPITALS.
-
- More Transcriber’s Notes may be found at the end of this text.
-
-
-
-
- ~Monarchs of Minstrelsy,
- from “Daddy” Rice to Date~
-
- ~By
- Edw. Le Roy Rice~
-
- ~Author of
- “1000 Men of Minstrelsy, and 1 Woman;”
- “Minstrelsy That Was, and Is;”
- “A Ramble Among the
- Minstrels,” etc.~
-
- [Illustration]
-
- ~Kenny Publishing Company
- 22-24 North William Street
- New York City, N. Y.~
-
-
- COPYRIGHT, 1911.
- BY
- MRS. EMMA L. RICE
-
- _All Rights Reserved_
-
-
-[Illustration: EDW. LE ROY RICE.]
-
-
-
-
- ~To
- My Mother~
-
- (_The Best I Ever Had_)
-
- ~This Book is Affectionately Dedicated.~
-
-
-
-
-THE AUTHOR’S FOREWORD.
-
-
-There were several reasons which prompted me to compile this volume,
-the chief one being the fact that the subject in its entirety had never
-before been attempted; and whenever individual articles appeared, they
-almost invariably treated of old times and old timers alone.
-
-A second reason, and one of equal importance, was that these
-contributions which appeared both in the various newspapers and
-magazines, were in the main written on hearsay alone without any
-apparent regard for facts.
-
-No one is infallible, and if the data that appears between the covers
-of this book of living performers who furnished me with the sketches of
-their careers is incorrect, obviously no blame can be attached to the
-author.
-
-But of those who are past, I have given the most careful search of the
-records that were placed at my disposal, and verified or disavowed all
-statements made to me, or have qualified by attributing them to those
-from whom they emanated.
-
-In this manner I hope to perpetuate the names and fame in story and
-picture of these “Monarchs of Minstrelsy from ‘Daddy’ Rice to Date.”
-
- New York City, Oct. 12, 1910.
- EDW. LE ROY RICE.
-
-
-
-
-INTRODUCTION.
-
-
-Is Minstrelsy dying out? How often has the question been asked and how
-conflicting are the opinions of those who ought to know? Some maintain
-that minstrelsy is here to stay, while others insist there are no more
-minstrel shows.
-
-But if the question were: Are the minstrels dying out? there could be
-no divergence of opinion. The passing away in the last decade or so of
-such luminaries as Neil. Bryant, Billy Rice, Billy West, Billy Emerson,
-Wm. Henry Rice, Frank Cushman, Ben. Cotton, Johnny Booker, Jack Herman,
-Andy Leavitt, E. F. Dixey, J. B. Donniker, “Eugene” J. H. Haverly,
-Sam. Hague, Dave Reed and many others, eliminate the matter of doubt
-entirely. Granting this, it would appear that the two terms: Minstrels
-and Minstrelsy are synonymous.
-
-Some of the minstrel-loving public who recall the old days when
-Hooley’s in Brooklyn, The San Franciscos (Birch, Bernard, Wambold and
-Backus) in New York, likewise Bryant’s and the Christy’s; and Carncross
-and Dixey’s in Philadelphia were household words, will be astonished to
-learn that many of the burnt-cork heroes of forty years ago, yes, fifty
-years, are still living, scattered about the country, though it has
-been years since some of them have darkened their features.
-
-But while most of the old-timers are past and gone, and those who are
-living, practically in retirement; yet there are many of the younger
-generation of sable performers who rank in many ways with their
-illustrious predecessors, and it is of these as well as of the “old
-guard” that “Monarchs of Minstrelsy; from ‘Daddy’ Rice to Date,” will
-specialize on. I wish to take this opportunity to extend my thanks to
-the New York _Clipper_, without whose assistance this work could not
-have reached the comprehensive form it has attained; and an invaluable
-auxiliary was obtained when this aid was further supplemented by the
-files and data of the _Dramatic Mirror_ being placed at my disposal,
-and for which I am also extremely grateful.
-
-From the Albert Davis collection of photographs, Brooklyn, I have
-received invaluable specimens, likewise Eddie Fox, Mrs. Billy Rice,
-“Hank” Mudge, Harry Booker, Emil Heusel, John Unsworth, Billy Huntley,
-Mrs. J. T. Huntley, Tommy Granger; Charles E. Ellis, author of
-“Official Elks History;” Mrs. James Budworth, Mrs. G. W. H. Griffin,
-Mrs. Archie Hughes, “Bill” Hines, Dan Mason, Phil. A. Paulscraft,
-Mrs. Ben Cotton, R. H. Mayland, Gus Hill, Fox & Ward, John P. Hogan,
-Miss Maggie Weston, Frank Dumont, William Blakeney, New York _Sunday
-Telegraph_; Louis Morgenstern, Tom Ward, Will Webster, Mrs. Catherine
-Griffin, Tom Waters, McIntyre & Heath, Geo. Lewis, Nick Norton, Geo. L.
-Willson, Chapin & Gore, Chicago; Willis P. Sweatnam, Walter Kingsley
-and the late J. H. Surridge.
-
- * * * * *
-
-NOTE.--Where dates and miscellaneous information found in this volume
-differ from those in my “1,000 Men of Minstrelsy; and One Woman,” it is
-because careful research has shown the latter to be erroneous.
-
-
-
-
-INDEX
-
-
- A
-
- Abbott, C. D. 74
- Abbott, Fred. 94
- Abecco, Raphael 118
- Abel, Neal 364
- Abrams, Morris 32
- Adams, Jas. E. 215
- Adams, Marsh 131
- Adams, Thos. 288
- Allen, And. Jackson 6
- Allen, Billy 124
- Allen, Johnny 175
- Allen, Paul 247
- Allen, R. G. 182
- Allmon, Dan. 316
- Ames, Emil 220
- Arbuckle, Maclyn 320
- Arlington, Billy 115
- Armstrong, Harry 228
- Arnold, Amos 163-223
- Arnold, Billy 163-223
- Arnold, Frank 163-224
- Ashcroft, Wm. J. 160
- Atkins, Charley 220
- Atkinson, “Chuck” 119
- Austin, Ralph 351
-
- B
-
- Backus, Chas. 70
- Bailey, Fred. 351
- Bailey, Geo. W. 60
- Baird, I. W. 203
- Baldwin, Archie 219
- Baldwin, Louis 315
- Ball, Stephen B. 67
- Bamford, A. 142
- Banker, Ed. H. 115
- Barbour, W. W. 203
- Barlow, Bill 223
- Barlow, Billie 272
- Barlow, James 223
- Barlow, Milt. G. 159
- Barnes, Stuart 322
- Barnum, P. T. 23
- Barry, Billy 224
- Bartley, John 142
- Barton, Chas. 276
- Basquin, J. A. 72
- Beach, Bobby 267
- Beard, Billy 358
- Beban, Geo. 339
- Behman, Louis 266
- Belasco, David 280
- Belknap, W. S. 238
- Bell, Frank 159
- Bell, Fred. A. 279
- Benedict, Lew. 132
- Benham, Earl 364
- Benson, Billy 296
- Berger, Paul 55
- Bernard, Sam. 318
- Bernard, Wm. H. 71
- “Bernardo,” 210
- Berthelon, Dick 80
- Bidaux, Theodore Gustave 76
- Birch, Billy 2-68
- Birch, Walter 84
- Birdue, Bob 212
- Black, W. W. 308
- Blackford, John 279
- Blair, Billy 74
- Blakely, Harry 279
- Blakely, Thos. 6
- Blakeney, Wm. 78
- Bloodgood, Harry 176
- Blue, John J. 362
- Bogert, Eddie 335
- Bohee, Jas. D. 142
- Booker, Harry 222
- Booker, Johnny 74
- Booth, Edwin 91
- Bortell, Chas. 155
- Bowers, Fred. V. 348
- Bowers, Nick. 54
- Bowers, Otis 230
- Bowman, Jas. M. 350
- Bowman, John 154
- Bowman, Wm. T. 350
- Boyce, John T. 131
- Boyd, Billy 80
- Boyd, Clarence 299
- Bradley, Jas. B. 311
- Braham, Dave 66
- Bray, Walter 146
- Brickwood, Chas. 235
- Briggs, J. Harvey 318
- Briggs, Tom 46
- Brimmer, Lew 151
- Brockway, Wm. H. 108
- Brooks, Jos. 215
- Brower, Frank 11-15
- Brower, Thos. P. 71
- Brown, Ben. 188
- Brown, Geo. 96
- Brown, Joe 72
- Brown, John G. 47
- Bruno, Gus. 202
- Bryant, Billy 248
- Bryant, Dan. 64-87-98-248-295
- Bryant, Fred. 215
- Bryant, Jerry 58
- Bryant, Neil 106
- Bryant, Wm. H. 220
- Bryant, Wm. T. 72
- Buckley, Billy 298
- Buckley, Fred 18
- Buckley, Geo. Swayne 18-83
- Buckley, James 15
- Buckley, Joe. 104
- Buckley, J. K. 134
- Buckley, R. Bishop 16
- Buckley, R. Jean 92
- Budd, Jake 103
- Budworth, Harry 218
- Budworth, Jas. 64-79-295
- Budworth, W. S. 114
- Bugbee, Chas. R. 299
- Bulger, Harry 324
- Burbank, Otto 72
- Burgess, “Cool” 138
- Burgess, Fred. 52
- Burgess, Neil. 188
- Burk, Major 159
- Burnham, Chas. D. 146
- Burr, Billy 135
- Burton, Clarence 287
- Butler, “Picayune” 30
- Byrne, J. H. W. 270
-
- C
-
- Cain, John E. 308
- Callender, Chas. 54
- Cameron, Al. 319
- Campbell, Geo. F. 252
- Campbell, J. C. 174
- Campbell, J. K. 103
- Campbell, M. C. 26
- Campbell, Sher. 60
- Canfield, Eugene 222
- Carle, Jno. H. 48
- Carle, Richard 324
- Carmichael, Bob. 310
- Carncross, John L. 92
- Carnes, Boardman 326
- Carroll, Jas. 59
- Carroll, Richard F. 318
- Carroll, R. M. 80
- Carroll, Wm. J. 250
- Carson, Dave. 66
- Carter, Billy 94
- Carter, Jim 30
- Casey, Frank 299
- Cassady, Eddie 359
- Castle, Wm. 110
- Cave, John Arnold 34
- Cawthorne, Herbert 296
- Cawthorne, Joe 323
- Ceda, Bill 24
- Chace, Billy 272
- Chambers, Billy 91
- Charles, Geo. W. 124
- Chase, Frank V. 315
- Cheevers, Joe. 200
- Chestnut, Mast. 6
- Childs, Joe. H. 134
- Chipman, E. W. 335
- Chirgwin, Geo. A. 343
- Christian, Tom. 23
- Christie, Arthur 296
- Christie, Chas. 55
- Christy, E. Byron 22
- Christy, Edwin P. 19
- Christy, Geo. N. 20
- Christy’s Minstrels 19
- Christy, Wm. A. 22
- Church, Chas. L. 92
- “Cincinnatus” 220
- Clapham, Geo. T. 207
- Clapham, Harry J. 142
- Clapp, W. W. Jr. 6
- Clark, Billy 354
- Clark, Geo. M. 84
- Clark, Jimmy 142
- Clark, S. E. 30
- Clark, Willis 246
- Clarke, Kit. 124
- Claudius, Dana H. 352
- Cleveland, Wm. S. 306
- Clifford, Billy S. 340
- Clifford, J. H. 147
- Cluskey, John 72
- “Coal Oil Johnny” 282
- Coburn, J. A. 331
- Coes, Geo. H. 58
- Cogill, C. W. 210
- Cohan, Geo. M. 356
- Cohan, Jerry 203
- Cohen, Sallie 280
- Cole, Sam. 126
- Coleman, Billy 60
- Coleman, “Pickaninny” 28
- Collier, Willie 330
- Collins, Ben. 244
- Collins, D. W. 114
- Collins, John H. 28
- Collins, “Punch” 48
- Collyer, Dan 240
- Comfort, Vaughn 360
- Connors, Jimmy 279
- Converse, Frank B. 119
- Conway, Billy 254
- Cook, Arthur 158
- Cook, James 312
- Cooke, Aynsley 95
- Cooper, Jas. H. 118
- Corbett, Jas. J. 343
- Corbin, Edmond G. 282
- Cornu, E. J. 116
- Cotton, Ben. 62
- Cotton, Ben. Jr. 212
- Courtright, Billy 203
- Cox, John S. 82
- Crane, Wm. H. 182
- Crimmins, John 300
- Crimmins, Mike. 300
- Crimmins, Steve 300
- Crocker, John P. 95
- Cronin, Tim. 278
- Crosby, L. V. H. 50
- Crosher, John 147
- Cummings, Jas. H. 239
- Cunningham, Geo. W. 311
- Cunningham, Jerry 292
- Cushman, Frank 168-243
-
- D
-
- Dailey, Peter F. 302
- Daly, Bill 247
- Daly, Dan 303
- Daly, John 287
- Daly, Tom 247
- Dart, Fred. 272
- Davis, Lewis H. 224
- Davis, Ned. 90
- Davis, Will J. 282
- Day, Chas. H. 151
- Day, Geo. W. 319
- De Angelis, Jeff 292
- De Angelis, Johnny 87
- Deaves, Edwin 27
- Decker, Al. 256
- Decker, Jas. H. 218
- Delehanty, Wm. H. 184
- Delmanning, Dent. 208
- Delmore, Len. 271
- Deming, Arthur 323
- De Rue, Billy 348
- De Rue, Bobby 348
- Detzel, Pete. 350
- De Vere, Geo. M. 300
- Devere, Sam. 152
- Devere, Tommy 220
- Devere, Wm. 220
- Devlin, Jimmy 355
- Diamond, Billy 224
- Diamond, John 40
- Diamond, Lawrence 254
- Diamond, Matt. 254
- Dicken, C. Edward 294
- Dickinson, Commodore 98
- Dingess, John A. 52
- Dixey, E. Freeman 86
- Dixey, Henry E. 294
- “Dixie”, origin of 314
- Dixon, Thos. B. 198
- Dixon, Geo. Washington 6
- Dobson, Chas. E. 132
- Dobson, Edw. C. 288
- Dockstader, Chas. 207
- Dockstader, Lew. 2-4-46-138-274-302
- Dockstader, W. L. 303
- Donaldson, Wm. B. 36
- Donnelly, Lewis J. 134
- Donnelly, Tommy 318
- Donniker, John B. 83
- Dooley, Larry 307
- Doty, J. Arthur 300
- Dougherty, Hughey 170
- Dove, Johnny 359
- Doyle, J. Marcus 236
- Dresser, Paul 212
- Dukelan, “Slim Jim” 168
- Duley, John H. 91
- Dumont, Frank 198
- Dunn, Arthur 322
- Duprez, Chas. H. 72
- Durand, Lansing 34
- Durell, Frank 294
- Dwyer, Wm. 136
-
- E
-
- Eagan, Hubert W. 150
- Early, John W. 327
- Edwards, Bob. 36
- Eldredge “Press” 226
- Ellis, Harry A. 354
- Eltinge, Julian 363
- Emerson, Billy 186-207
- Emerson, Mort. 246
- Emmett, Billy 170
- Emmett, Dan. 11-14
- Emmett, J. K. 150
- Emmett, “Young Dan” 66
- English, Tom 304
- Ernest, Chas. M. 219
- “Eugene” 111
- “Eustache” 218
- Evans, Chas. E. 271
- Evans, Geo. 339
- Evarts, Harry 76
-
- F
-
- Fagan, Barney 216
- Farrell, Bob 6
- Field, Al. G. 214
- Fields, John F. 251
- Fields, Lew. 328
- Fields, Wm. 118
- Filkins, Robert J. 182
- Fish, Fred. C. 260
- Fish, Wm. B. 47
- Fisher, Harry 207
- Florence, W. J. 96
- Foley, Johnny 366
- Foley, Mike 155
- Foley, Willie 366
- Foote, Wm. 174
- Forde, Stanley 356
- Forrest, Edwin 23
- Fostelle, Chas. 180
- Foster, Dave 264
- Foster, Stephen C. 51
- Fox, Charley 56
- Fox, Eddie 195
- Fox, Jas. 212
- Fox, Joe. 235
- Fox, Ned. 178
- Foy, Eddie 218
- Foy, Dave. 215
- France, Sid. C. 122
- Fraser, Bob. 152
- Frear, Billy 210
- Frear, Fred. 219
- Frear, Jas. B. 211
- Freeth, Jabez 215
- Freeze, Larry 340
- Freeze, Billy 340
- French, Chas. K. 298
- French, Edwin 243
- Friganza, Trixie 354
- Frohman, Chas. 264
- Frohman, Daniel 264
- Frohman, Gus. 264
- Frothingham, Geo. 174
- Fulton, Jas. C. 336
- Fulton, Wm. T. 336
-
- G
-
- Gallagher, Denny 66
- Gale, Geo. 211
- Gale, Peter 302
- Gardner, Charley 130
- Gardner, Dan 26
- Gardner, Sam. 28
- Gaylor, Chas. 98
- Gaylord, Low. 110
- Gaynor, James 131
- Geary, Gustave 147
- Gentry, Jas. B. 310
- Germon, Francis 24
- Gettings, Tommy 162
- Geyer, Frank C. 266
- Gibbons, Chas E. 136
- Gibbs, Clark M. 116
- Gibbs, Wally 216
- Gibson, Alf. 284
- Gilbert, John D. 283
- Gilday, Chas. 291
- Gildea, Edw. P. 304
- Gill, Wm. S. 4
- Gilmore, Barney 344
- Gilmore, P. S. 62
- Ginniven, Billy 260
- Girard, Eddie 286
- Girard, Frank 140
- Girard, Willie 286
- Glenn, Jas. 128
- Glidden, Charley 211
- Golden, Billy 288
- Golden, Geo. Fuller 346
- Golden, Richard 242
- Goldrich, Pete. 199
- Goodman, “Hank” 95
- Goodwin, Nat. C. 268
- Goodyear, Chas. 179
- Gorman, Geo. 232
- Gorman, James 232-355
- Gorman, John 232
- Gorton, Jos. Jr. 356
- Gorton, Jos. Sr. 108
- Goss, Ned. 212
- Gould, Billy 339
- Gould, Julia 46
- Gould, Napoleon W. 28
- Granger, Tommy 231
- Granville, “Bun” 364
- Graupner, Mr. 5-6
- Gray, Billy 136
- Gray, Geo. 151
- Gray, William 296
- Green, J. E. 86
- Greenland, Ned. 67
- Griffin, G. W. H. 59-83
- Griffin, Jas. H. 268
- Guy, Albert 320
- Guy, Arthur L. 346
- Guy, Mrs. Arthur L. 351
- Guy, Chas. 296
- Guy, Edwin 326
- Guy, Geo. 36
- Guy, Geo. R. 263
- Guy, Willie 242
-
- H
-
- Hague, Sam. 56
- Haines, Nat. 307
- Haley, Maurice 278
- Hall, Artie 355
- Hall, Bob. 82
- Hall, E. M. 183
- Hall, Geo. L. 56
- Hall, Wm. D. 330
- Hall, Wm. M. 6
- Hallen, Fred. 270
- Hallen, Geo. 308
- Hallett, Wm. H. 332
- Hamall, Hugh 183
- Hamilton, Wm. H. 147
- Hanson, Frank 251
- Hapgood, Harry 47
- Harley, Edwin 218
- Harold, Donald 266
- Harper, Ned. 24
- Harrigan, Ned. 263
- Harrington, Geo. A. 30
- Harrington, J. C. 288
- Harris, Chas. K. 322
- Harris, Tommy 267
- Harris, Wm. 154
- Hart, Al. 324
- Hart, B. C. 182
- Hart, Billy 83-151
- Hart, Bob 83
- Hart, Jerry 272
- Hart, Joe. 306
- Hart, John 90
- Hart, Tony 263
- Haverly, Burt. 244
- Haverly, J. H. 120
- Hawkins, D. R. 148
- Hawkins, Lew. 244
- Hayes, Ben. 150
- Hayes, Tim. 151
- Hayman, Al. 208
- Haywood, Charlie 304
- Heath, Thos. K. 255-262
- Height, Bob. 228
- Hengler, Thos. M. 184
- Hennessy, Michael F. 271
- Henry, Chas. 104
- Henry, Hi. 172
- Henshaw, John E. 216
- Herbert, “Pot Pie” 6
- Herman, Geo. W. 63
- Herman, J. A. 42
- Hernandez, A. M. 82
- Herne, Jas. A. 148
- Heusel, Emil 324
- Heywood, Chas. 199
- Hicks, Chas. B. 147
- Higgins, Joe. 303
- Higgins, Wm. 303
- Hilliard, Chas. 364
- Hilton, J. W. 107
- Hines, Wm. E. 290
- Hitchcock, Raymond 335
- Hobbs, W. L. 82
- Hoey, Jas. F. 302
- Hoey, Wm. F. 264
- Hogan, Gus. 276
- Hogan, Harry 276
- Hogan, John P. 190
- Holland, Geo. 22
- Holly, Jas. 230
- Holmes, Edwin 67-83
- Holmes, Wm. F. 235
- Holt, Dan. 66
- Hooley, Bob. 278
- Hooley, John 75
- Hooley, R. M. 38
- Hopper, De Wolf 323
- Horan, Eddie 332
- Horn, Eph. 27
- Horn, Geo. 227
- Horwitz, Chas. 323
- Howard, Charley 51
- Howard, Frank (A., C. & H.) 215
- Howard, Frank (Hurd) 148
- Howard, Frank (Martindale) 180
- Howard, Gus. 134
- Howard, Patsy 258
- Howard, Rollin 83-127
- Howard, Seth. 76
- Huber, Fred. 252
- Hughes, Archie 78
- Hughes, Artie 264
- Hughes, Joe. 315
- Hughes, Mark 136
- Hughes, Ruey. 202
- Huntington, Harry (see “Young Dan Emmett.”)
-
- Huntley, C. L. 42
- Huntley, J. T. 43
- Huntley, Mrs. J. T. 83
- Huntley, Wm. A. 160
- Hurley, J. 230
- Hussey, Frank 91
- Hutton, Laurence 5-6
- Hyde, Richard 266
- Hyde, Tommy 360
-
- I
-
- Irwin, Max 87
- Isaacs, P. B. 78
-
- J
-
- Jackson, Theodore 110
- Jamison, Neil 6
- Jansen, J. Melville 187
- “Japanese Tommy” 116
- Jefferson, Jos. 60
- Jefferson, Tommy 116
- Jenkins, Charley 6
- Jennings, John 251
- Jerome, Billy 322
- Johnson, Arthur 304
- Johnson, Carroll 230
- Johnson, Jim. 50
- Johnson, Sam. 23
- Jolson, Al. 363
- Jolson, Harry 362
- Jones, Albert 66
- Jones, Geo. 362
- Jose, Richard J. 338
-
- K
-
- Kanane, Mike 67
- Kayne, E. M. 187
- Keating, John J. 262
- Keefe, Matt. 326
- Keegan, John T. 292
- Kellerd, John E. 307
- Kelly, Edwin 143
- Kelly, Jimmy 279
- Kelly, J. J. 160
- Kelly, John T. 264
- Kelly, J. W. 278
- Kelly, Nolan 220
- Kemble, J. R. 124
- Kennedy, Edw. J. 200
- Kennedy, Harry 267
- Kennedy, “Memphis” 228
- Kent, Frank 2-71
- Kernell, Harry 187
- Kerns, Frank 155
- King, John H. 334
- Kneass, Nelson 26
- Knowles, R. G. 291
- Koppitz, Chas. 66
- Kunkel, Geo. 39
- Kurtz, Melvin S. 175
-
- L
-
- Lackaye, Wilton 296
- Lacy, Harry 270
- Lafayette, The Great 4
- Lamont, Jas. W. 123
- Landis, John 30
- Lane, Pete 75
- Lang, Joe. 154
- Lang, John 183
- Langdon, Geo. 76
- Lansing, Harry 220
- La Rue, D. C. 95
- Latell, Ed. 339
- La Verne, Lucille 323
- Lawrence, Billy 79
- Lea, Geo. 30
- Leavitt, Andy 35
- Leavitt, M. B. 158
- Le Clair, Harry 270
- Lee, Dinner 96
- Lee, John H. 215
- Lee, Pete 123
- Lee, Philip 96
- Lee, Sam 318
- Lehr, Harry 67
- Leicester, ---- 6
- Leighton, Bert. 358
- Leighton, Frank 356
- Leighton, Harry 78-322
- Leighton, Joe. 358
- Le Mack, Tom 316
- “Leon” 123-143
- Leon, Dan. 51
- Leonard, Eddie 351
- Leslie, Bert. 346
- Leslie, Tom. 91
- Lester, Billy 247
- Lewis, Charley 91
- Lewis, Frank 295
- Lewis, Geo. W. 314
- Lewis, Tom. 71-296
- “Little Mac” 162
- Lockwood, Chas. 147
- Long, Chas. G. 52
- Lorraine, Chas. F. 207
- “Lotta” 179
- Lovely, Joe. 212
- Lynch, Frank 32
- Lyons, Dan. E. 291
-
- M
-
- Mack, Andrew 315
- Mack, James 286
- Mack, Jas. W. 183
- Mack, Johnny 242
- Mack, John A. 114
- Mack, Jos. H. 207
- Mack, Keller 336
- Mack, Pete 280
- Mack, Will. G. 198
- Mackin, Jas. F. 258
- Mackney, E. W. 47
- Magee, Richard Jr. 228
- Maguire, Tom. 43
- Malcolm, Fred. B. 227
- Mallory, Ben. 62
- Manchester, Bob. 251
- Mann, Harry 3-287
- Manning, Billy 128-248
- Manning, Eddie 303
- Manning, Jas. H. 335
- Marble, Ed. 187
- Marion, Bert. 327
- Marion, Geo. 294
- Marion, Herman 355
- Marks, Clarence 343
- Marks, Eddie 310
- Marr, Billy 230
- Martin, Geo. T. 300
- Martin, Tom. 307
- Mason, Chas. A. 299
- Mason, Dan. 271
- Mason, “Hank” 40
- Mason, Hen. 148
- “Master” Barney 128
- “Master” Juba 48
- “Master” Martin 284
- “Master Tommy” 206
- Maxwell, Barry 179-199
- Mayland, Rowland H. 204
- Mazier, Eddie 347
- McAllister, Billy 158
- McAndrews, J. W. 79
- McCabe, D. W. 298
- McCullough, John 98
- McElroy, Matt. 304
- McGee, Joe B. 362
- McGowan, Dick 130
- McGown, Bobby 226
- McIntyre, Jas. 255-262
- McKee, Andy 171
- McKee, Frank 304
- McMahon, Tim. 335
- McMahon, Walter 346
- McMillan, Jerry 142
- McNally, Tom. 119
- McNish, Frank E. 240
- McVeigh, Johnny 179
- McWade, Robert 139
- McVickar, John 232
- Melville, Chas. 102
- Melville, E. J. 50
- Mestayer, Harry 6
- Meyers, Lew. 103
- Mills, Gus. 242
- Milton, Chas. W. 344
- Mitchell, Mike 66
- Monroe, Chas. L. 142
- Monroe, Ned. 332
- Montague, Harry 98
- Montgomery, Dave 342
- Montgomery, “Scamp” 327
- Moore, Geo. F. 211
- Moore, “Pony” 31
- Moran, Frank 2-54
- Moreland, Arthur 58-191
- Morgan, Duke 72
- Morningstar, Chas. A. 71
- Morrell, Frank 352
- Morris, Billy 64
- Morris, Chas. A. 64
- Morris, D. L. 139
- Morris, Lon. 64
- Morris, Tim. 94
- Morrisey, L. 135
- Morse, Harry M. 242
- Mortimer, Jos. 63
- Morton, Jos. 262
- Morton, J. W. 204
- Morton, Will H. 218
- Moxley, Thos. L. 59
- Mudge “Hank” 138
- Mullally, W. S. 178
- Mulligan, John 55
- Murphy, Con. T. 162
- Murphy, Joe 106
- Murphy, J. B. 63
- Murphy, J. C. 183
- Murphy, J. H. 144
- Murphy, John E. 262
- Murphy, Jos. D. 42
- Murphy, Mark 304
- Myers, “Ole Bull” 23
-
- N
-
- Newcomb, Bobby 1-58-194
- Newcomb, W. W. 40
- Newman, Wm. G. 308
- Nicholls, Geo. 6
- Niles, P. J. 271
- Nish, Anthony 63
- Noble, Chas. 75
- Norcross, Jos. M. 150
- Norris, James 138
- Norton, John 122
- Norton, Tim. 122
- Norton, Wash. 122
-
- O
-
- Oakland, Fred. 252
- Oakland, Will 362
- Oberist, John F. 111
- O’Brien, Mike 67
- O’Brien, Neil 330
- O’Day, Billy 238
- Olcott, Chauncey 282
- O’Neill, Charley 75
- Ordway, John P. 44
-
- P
-
- Paine, Ira 116
- Parker, Dick 114
- Parker, Lew. 204
- Parmley, “Hank” 106
- Parrow, Wm. 31
- Pastor, Tony 84
- Patti, Greg 324
- Payne, Billy 298
- Payton, Corse 331
- Pearl, Billy 312
- Pearl, Charley 239
- Peasley, John A. 136
- Peel, “English Tommy” 146
- Peel, Matt. 75
- Peel, Mrs. Matt., (see Mrs. J. T. Huntley)
-
- Peel, Tommy 148
- Pelham, Dick 11-12
- Pell, Frank 148
- Pell, Gilbert W. 48
- Pell, Harry 72
- Pell, Jas. 294
- Pell, Johnny 84
- Pendy, John 140
- Percy, Harry 178
- Petrie, Chas. 86
- Petrie, Will O. 260
- Pettengill, Charley 156
- Pettengill, Joe. 302
- Pettitt, Seamon S. 232
- Phelps, Lucius M. 178
- Philbrick, Will 358
- Phillips, Augustus 347
- Phillips, Will, F. 346
- Pierce, Earl 43
- Pierce, Johnny “Froggy” 131
- Pierce, W. W. 118
- Pike, Marshall S. 28
- Pixley, Gus. 323
- Polk, J. S. 98
- Porter, Wm. A. 38
- Powers, Geo. W. 192
- Powers, James 51
- Powers, Jas. T. 323
- Prendergast, John 188
- Prendergast, Tom. 66
- Price, Harry M. 283
- Price, Neil 140
- Price, Sam. 114
- Primrose, Geo. H. 4-236
- Pringle, C. W. 136
- Prosser, Rees 327
- Purdy, S. S. 110
-
- Q
-
- Queen, Chas. 254
- Queen, John 323
- Queen, Johnny 135
- Quigley, “Doc” 348
- Quilter, Dick 199
- Quinlan, Dan. 316
- Quinn, Billy 118
- Quinn, Paul 334
-
- R
-
- Rainer, Jos. H. 47
- Raleigh, Tom. 30
- Ralph, Dick 174
- Rankin, Carl 262
- Rankin, Rit. 262
- Rankin, Will 262
- Rattler, Lew 76
- Raymond, Maude 334
- Raynor, Geo. 34
- Raynor, J. W. 39
- Reece, “Pop” 64
- Reed, Charley 267
- Reed, Dave 67
- Reed, Ned. 136
- Reeves, Al. 319
- Remington, Billy 136
- Reynolds, Chas. 239
- Reynolds, Charley 115
- Reynolds, Geo. 239
- Ricaby, Sanford B. 330
- “Ricardo” 175
- Rice, Billy 163-207
- Rice, “Daddy” 7-74
- Rice, Dan. 42
- Rice, Edw. Le Roy 1
- Rice, Geo. 6
- Rice, Geo. W. 276
- Rice, Johnny 206
- Rice, John C. 268
- Rice, Philip 30
- Rice, Wm. Henry 31-74-163
- Richards, Geo. 258
- Richards, Vic. 292
- Richards, Warren 134
- Richardson, Billy 220
- Richardson, Sage 202
- Richmond, Harry G. 140
- Rickey, Sam. 280
- Rigby, Arthur C. 328
- Roberts, James 6
- Robinson, Geo. (see “Eustache”)
-
- Robinson, Harry 91
- Robinson, “Hop” 6
- Robson, Andrew 4
- Rockefeller, Geo. W. 156
- Rogers, Neil 176
- Rogers, Stevie 171
- Romain, Manuel 346
- Roome, Jas. 116
- Rosenbaum, Ed. 306
- Ross, Jasper H. 51
- Rudolph, Carl 132
- Rudolph, W. Jackson 52
- Rumsey, Hy. 59
- Rumsey, Zenas 28
- Rushby, Horace 146
- Russell, James 266
- Russell, Jas. G. 135
- Russell, John 266
- Ryman, Add. 122
-
- S
-
- Sadler, Tom. 276
- Sanderson, Harry 295
- Sandford, Jim 23
- Sands, Dick 147
- Sands, Edw. 262
- Sanford, Jas. 152
- Sanford, Sam. 34-364
- Sarrissey, “Dad” 62
- Sarsfield, Steve 299
- Schoolcraft, Luke 58-192
- Scott, Ainsley 108
- Seamon, Chas. V. 214
- Sexton, Mert. 76
- Seymour, Nelse. 50-64-95-98-295
- Sharpley, Chas. 315
- Sharpley, Fred. 219
- Sharpley, James 182
- Sharpley, Sam. 64-76
- Shattuck, Chas. F. 90
- Shay, Harry 230
- Shay, Johnny 179
- Sheffer, “Buck” 279
- Shelby, Dan. 122
- Shepard, Burt. 227
- Sheppard, Billy 147
- Sheppard, Bob. 35
- Sheppard, Frank 291
- Sheridan, John F. 183
- Shirley, Harry 230
- Shorey, J. G. H. 90
- Shunk, Harry C. 347
- Silver, Dick 76
- Silver, J. K. 135
- Simmons, Lew. 1-126
- Simpson, John 72
- Sitgreaves, Beverly 354
- Sivori, John 83
- Skiff, M. T. 96
- Skinner, Otis 316
- Slavin, Bob. 2-250
- Sliter, Dick 50
- Slocum, E. N. 111-294
- Smith, Bob. 75
- Smith, Ed. C. 270
- Smith, Harry W. 356
- Smith, John P. 82
- Smith, John W. 24
- Smith, Sol. 6
- Smith, Wm. 248
- Smith, Wm. H. 44
- Smith, Wm. N. 67
- Sommers, Tom. 214
- Sothern, Mr. 96
- Spalding, Dr. G. R. 23
- Spencer, Lew. 198
- Spooner, Cecil 355
- Spooner, Edna May 346
- Sprung, Fred. 140
- Stanley, Burton 228
- Stanwood, Harry 152
- Steele, John W. (see “Coal Oil Johnny”)
-
- Stewart, “Fatty” 95
- Stiles, Billy 276
- Stine, Chas. J. 320
- Stone, A. C. 140
- Stone, Fred. 342
- Stone, H. D. 6
- Stout, John S. 180
- Stratton, Eugene 320
- Strickland, W. H. 147
- “Stuart” 344
- Studley, J. B. 82
- Subers, Emil 355
- Sullivan, J. F. 148
- Sullivan, John L. 339
- Sullivan, Mark 287
- Sully, Lew. 311
- Sully, Wm. J. 283
- Sun, Gus. 334
- Surridge, J. H. 126
- Sutton, Charley 176
- Sweatnam, Willis P. 3-179
- Swor, Bert 343
- Sweeney, Dick 24
- Sweeney, Joe. 22
- Sweet, O. P. 110
- Symonds, Jack 303
-
- T
-
- Talbott, Jack 144
- Tatnall, Sam. 6
- Templeton, Chas. 104
- Ten Brooke, James 286
- Tenney, Ernest 328
- Thatcher, Geo. 3-188
- Thatcher, Ned. 294
- Thayer, Ambrose A. 118
- Thayer, “Bije” 44
- Thomas, Wally 134
- Thompson, Dan. 278
- Thompson, Denman 106
- Thompson, Johnny 155
- Thompson, John W. 131
- Thompson, Matt. 96
- Thompson, Wm. H. 338
- Tierney, Jas. (T. & W.) 326
- Tierney, Jas. M. (T. & C.) 272
- Trowbridge, Jos. T. 39
- Turner, Chas. 303
- Turner, Frank 208
- Turner, John 223
- Turner, John M. 210
- Turner, Tommy 239
-
- U
-
- Unsworth, James 50-64-107-295
- Unsworth, John 175
-
- V
-
- Van, Billy 312
- Van, Billy B. 342
- Vaughn, Tom. 43
- Vetta, Franz 311
- Vidocq, Will 322
- Vogel, John W. 312
- Vokes, Harry 323
- Von Bonhorst, Julius A. 30
-
- W
-
- Wagner, “Happy” Cal. 146
- Waldron, Dan. 248
- Wallace, Jake 110
- Walters, Charley 204
- Walz, Fred. 239
- Wambold, Dave. 70
- Wambold, Jas. 92
- Wambold, Ned. 211
- Ward, Frank 208
- Ward, “Hap” 323
- Ward, John H. 139
- Ward, Wm. H. 235
- Warfield, Tom. 135
- Warren, Mickey 59
- Waterbury, Edw. M. 328
- Waterbury, Geo. N. 328
- Waters, Tom. 348
- Watson, Harry 212
- Wayne, Burt. 212
- Wayne, Chas. 326
- Weaver, Add. 87
- Weber, Jos. 328
- Welby, Jake 239
- Welch, Billy 206
- Welch, Fayette 123
- Wells, Frank 95
- Wells, Jimmy 51
- Wells, Sam. 51
- Weslyn, Everett 235
- West, Charley 219
- West, Luke 52
- West, Wm. 135
- West, Wm. H. 71-207-246
- Weston, Horace 46
- Weston, Wm. R. 280
- Wheeler, Matt. 162
- White, Archie 226
- White, Chas. O. 111
- White, Chas. T. 5-35
- White, “Cool” 34
- White, Frank H. 228
- White, G. Warren 26
- White, “Hank” 84
- Whiteside, Walker 4
- Whitlock, Billy 11-12
- Wild, Billy 176
- Wild, John 155
- Wilkes, Geo. 140
- Williams, Barney 44
- Williams, Bert. 350
- Williams, Billy 256
- Williams, Jack. 294
- Williams, Percy G. 271
- Willis, Oscar 155
- Wills, Nat. 335
- Wilson, Chas. 152
- Wilson, Chas. D. 347
- Wilson, Dave. 139
- Wilson, Francis 258-344
- Wilson, Fred. 55
- Wilson, Fred., (D. & W.) 271
- Wilson, Geo. 172
- Winnett, Tommy 232
- Winship, Geo. 47
- Winter, Banks 283
- Withers, Ike 182
- Witmark, Julius P. 342
- Wood, Billy 290
- Wood, Henry 74
- Woodruff, Tim. 46
- Woods, Geo. W. 206
- Woodson, Harry 238
- Wray, Billy 86
- Wright, Billy 75
- Wyatt, Andrew 82
-
- Y
-
- Yale, Chas. H. 276
- Yeamans, Jennie 310
- Young, Charley 254
-
- Z
-
- Zanfretta, Alexander 72
-
-
-
-
-INDEX TO ILLUSTRATIONS
-
-
- A
-
- Abecco, Raphael 217
- Abel, Neal 145
- Adams, Jas. E. 289
- Allen, Billy 233
- Allen, Hen 177
- Allen, Johnny 113
- Allen, Paul 21
- Ames, Emil 29
- Arbuckle, Maclyn 196
- Arlington, Billy 41
- Armstrong, Harry 221
- Arnold, Amos 157
- Arnold, Billy 157
- Arnold, Frank 157
- Ashcroft, Wm. J. 301
- Austin, Ralph 196
-
- B
-
- Backus, Chas. 117
- Bailey, Fred. 196
- Ball, Wm. 165
- Bamford, A. 73
- Banker, Ed. H. 97
- Barlow, Milt. G. 41
- Barnum, P. T. 49
- Barry, Billy 73
- Basquin, J. A. 73
- Beban, Geo. 197
- Belasco, David 197
- Bell, Frank 85
- Benedict, Lew. 85-225
- Benham, Earl 257
- Bernard, Sam. 196
- Bernard, Wm. H. 117
- Bidaux, Theodore Gustave 141
- Birch, Billy 117
- Birdue, Bob 349
- Bishop, Gonsalvo 141
- Black, W. W. 229
- Blakely, Harry 301
- Blakeney, Wm. 165
- Blossom, Nat. 173
- Blue, John J. 229
- Bogert, Eddie 177
- Booker, Harry 349
- Booker, Johnny 65
- Booth, Edwin 49
- Bowers, Fred. V. 197
- Bowman, Jas. M., Facing 351
- Bowman, John 177
- Bowman, Wm. T., Facing 351
- Bradley, Jas. B. 305
- Brandisi, Sig. 165
- Brimmer, Lew. 265
- Brockway, Wm. H. 333
- Brower, Frank 13
- Brown, Joe. 229
- Bruno, Gus. 57
- Bryant, Dan 99-149-225
- Bryant, Mrs. Dan 209
- Bryant, Fred. 177
- Bryant, Jerry 93
- Bryant, Neil. 65
- Buckley, Fred. 13
- Buckley, Mrs. Fred 209
- Buckley, Geo. Swayne 13
- Buckley, James 13
- Buckley, Joe. 181
- Buckley, R. Bishop 13
- Budworth, Jas. 161
- Budworth, Mrs. Jas 209
- Budworth, W. S. 265
- Bugbee, Chas. R. 365
- Bulger, Harry 197
- Burgess, “Cool” 245
- Burgess, Neil. 49
- Burton, Clarence 53
-
- C
-
- Cain, John E. 145
- Campbell, J. C. 221
- Campbell, J. K. 221
- Campbell, Sher. 221
- Canfield, Eugene 349
- Cardella, Frank 105
- Carle, Richard 196
- Carncross, John L. 181
- Carroll, R. M. 341
- Carter, Billy 37
- Carter, Jim 21
- Carter, Otis 217
- Casey, Frank 317
- Cassady, Eddie 169
- Castle, Wm. 49
- Catlin, E. N. 105
- Cawthorne, Joe. 196
- Chace, Billy 321
- Christy, E. Byron 85
- Christy, Edwin P. 45
- Christy, Geo. N. 45
- Clapham, Harry J. 365
- Clark, Willis 337
- Claudius, Dana H. 265
- Clifford, Billy S. 196
- Coes, Geo. H. 357
- Cogill, C. W. 253
- Cohan, Geo. M. 196
- Cohan, Jerry 196
- Cohen, Sallie 273
- Collier, Willie 197
- Collins, Ben. 133
- Collins, Frank 361
- Collins, Lew. 361
- Comfort, Vaughn 313
- Connors, Jimmy 253
- Constantine, Harry 201
- Converse, Frank B. 349
- Cook, James 361
- Cooper, Fred. 253
- Corbett, Jas. J. 125, 196
- Corbin, Edmond G. 53
- Cornu, E. J. 105
- Cotton, Ben. 89
- Cotton, Ben. Jr. 349
- Courtright, Billy 165
- Cox, Will (see Wm. West) 101
- Crane, Wm. H. 197
- Cronin, Tim. 357
- Cummings, Jas. H. 81
- Cunningham, Geo. W. 321
- Cushman, Frank 77
-
- D
-
- Daly, Bill 337
- Daly, Dan 49
- Daly, John 293
- Daly, Tom 337
- Dart, Fred. 109
- Davis, Lewis H. 321
- Day, Chas. H. 365
- De Angelis, Jeff 197
- Delehanty, Wm. H. 301
- Delmanning Bros. 289
- Deming, Arthur 129
- De Rue, Billy 137
- De Rue, Bobby 137
- De Vere, Geo. M. 29
- Devere, Sam. 37
- Dixey, E. Freeman 113
- Dixey, Henry E. 197
- “Dixie”, first performance of 185
- Dixon, Thos. B. 281
- Dockstader, Chas. 249
- Dockstader, Lew 249, Facing 274
- Donniker, John B. 105
- Doty, J. Arthur 201
- Dougherty, Hughey 85
- Dove, Johnny 341
- Dukelan, “Slim Jim,” 305-309
- Dumont, Frank 313
- Duprez, Chas. H. 141
- Du Rell, Ed 337
- Du Rell, Frank 337
-
- E
-
- Eagan, Hubert W. 41
- Edwards, Bob. 21
- Edwards, Geo. 41
- Ellis, Harry A. 25-305
- Ellwood, Lincoln 241
- Emerson, Billy 29-237
- Emerson, Mrs. Billy 209
- Emerson, Mort 337-361
- Emmett, Dan. 13
- Emmett, J. K. 49
- English, Tom 149
- Ernest, Chas. M. 89
- Escott, Dick 309
- “Eugene” 109-241
- Evans, Chas. E. 249
- Evans, Geo. 293
- Ewers, Wm. 309
-
- F
-
- Fagan, Barney 341
- Field, Al. G. 121
- Fields, John F. 277-317
- Fields, Lew. 197
- Foley, Johnny 305
- Foley, Willie 305
- Foote, Wm. 365
- Forrest, Edwin 49
- Fox, Charley 353
- Fox, Eddie 105
- Fox, Jas. 277
- Fox, Joe. 33
- Foy, Eddie 196
- France, Sid. C. 149
- Fraser, Bob. 181
- Fredericks, Chas. 165
- Freeze, Billy 137
- Freeze, Larry 137
- French, Chas. K. 149
- French, Edwin 53
- Friganza, Trixie 273
- Frohman, Chas. 197-285
- Frohman, Daniel 197
- Frohman, Gus. 285
- Frothingham, Geo. 125
-
- G
-
- Gale, Geo. 193
- Gardner, Charley 25
- Gardner, Sam. 333
- Gaylord, Low, facing 118
- Germon, Francis 69
- Gettings, Tommy 233
- Geyer, Frank C. 177
- Gibbs, Clark M. 101
- Gibson, Alf. 169
- Gilbert, John D. 177
- Gilmore, Barney 196
- Gilmore, P. S. 49
- Girard, Eddie 57
- Girard, Frank 73
- Girard, Willie 57
- Gladdish, Fred. 305
- Glenn, Jas. 181
- Golden, Richard 49
- Goldrich, Pete. 33
- Goodman, “Hank” 65
- Goodwin, Nat. C. 196
- Gorman, Geo. 157
- Gorman, James 157
- Gorman, John 157
- Goss, Ned. 277
- Gould, Julia 145
- Granger, Tommy 161
- Gray, Billy 229
- Gray, Geo. 217
- Green, J. E. 229
- Greenland, Ned. 365
- Grier, W. P. 165
- Griffin, G. W. H. 333
- Griffin, Jas. H. 277
- Guy, Arthur L. 257
- Guy, Mrs. Arthur L. 81
- Guy, Geo. R. 121-133
- Guy, Willie 133
-
- H
-
- Hague, Sam. 97
- Haines, Nat. 77
- Hall, Artie 273
- Hall, Bob 105
- Hall, E. M. 265
- Hallett, Wm. H. 305-313
- Hanson, Frank 317
- Harley, Geo. W. 281
- Harper, Ned. 9
- Harrigan, Ned. 289
- Harrington, Geo. A. 69
- Harrington, J. C. 253
- Harris, Chas. K. 197
- Harris, Wm. 197
- Hart, Bob. 85
- Hart, Jerry 169
- Hart, John 29
- Hart, Tony 289
- Haverly, Burt. 97
- Haverly, J. H., facing 118
- Haverly, Mrs. Jack 209
- Hawkins, Lew. 133
- Hayes, Tim. 233
- Heath, Thos. K., facing 255
- Hengler, Thos. M. 301
- Henry, Chas. 217
- Henry, Hi., facing 118
- Herman, J. A. 217
- Herne, Jas. A. 49
- Heywood, Chas. 241
- Hilliard, Chas. 269
- Hines, Wm. E. 173
- Hitchcock, Raymond 125-196
- Hodges, D. B. 365
- Hoey, Wm. F. 277
- Hogan, Gus. 357
- Hogan, Harry 357
- Hogan, John P. 133
- Holden, Jas. 105
- Holmes, Edwin 141
- Hooley, R. M. 121
- Hopper, De Wolf 196
- Horan, Eddie 341
- Horn, Eph. 181-225
- Horwitz, Chas. 197
- Howard, Charley 353
- Howard, Frank (Martindale) 193
- Howard, Harry 305
- Howard, Rollin 109
- Huber, Fred. 113
- Hughes, Archie 113
- Hughes, Artie 177
- Hughes, Ruey. 133
- Hunneman, Chas. 105
- Huntley, Wm. A. 53
- Hyde, Tommy 341
-
- J
-
- Jansen, J. Melville 57
- “Japanese Tommy” 165
- Jefferson, Jos. 49
- Jerome, Billy 196
- Johnson, Arthur 253
- Johnson, Carroll 205
- Jolson, Al., facing 363
- Jolson, Harry 257
- Jose, Richard J. 193
-
- K
-
- Kanane, Mike 233
- Kayne, E. M. 333
- Kellerd, John E. 197
- Kelly, Chas. 165
- Kelly, Ed. 253
- Kelly, Edwin 165
- Kelly, Jimmy 253
- Kelly, J. W. 49
- Kelly, Nolan 361
- Kemble, J. R. 333
- Kemble, Mrs. J. R. 209
- Kennedy, Edw. J. 177
- Kent, Frank 141
- Kernell, Harry 40
- Kerns, Frank 25
- King, John H., facing 118
-
- L
-
- Lackaye, Wilton 197
- Lamont & Ducrow 133
- Lang, John 281
- Lansing, Harry 201
- La Rue, D. C. 121
- Latham, Mike 305
- Lavake, Will 101
- Lee, John H. 289
- Lee, Pete. 113
- Lee, Sam 257
- Lehr, Harry 145
- Leighton, Bert. 137
- Leighton, Frank 137
- “Leon” 109-165
- Leonard, Eddie 305
- Leslie, Bert. 196
- Leslie, Tom. 217
- Lester, Billy 21
- Lewis, Tom. 33
- Lewis, W. H. 141
- Linden, Ernest 241
- “Little Mac” 73
- Livermore, C. 213
- Livermore, G. 213
- Livermore, H. 213
- Livermore, L. 213
- Lockwood, Chas. 217
- Lorraine, Chas. F. 213
- “Lotta” 273
- Lovely, Joe. 349
- Lyons, Billy 241
-
- M
-
- Mack, Andrew 197
- Mack, James 201
- Mack, Jas. W. 349
- Mack, John A. 65
- Mack, Keller 33
- Mackin, Jas. F. 153-293
- Malcolm, Fred. B. 241
- Manning, Billy 237
- Manning, Mrs. Billy 209
- Marion, Herman 321
- Marks, Clarence 257
- “Master” Barney 129
- Maxwell, Barry 89
- Mazier, Eddie 257
- McAllister, Billy 41
- McAndrews, J. W. 161
- McElroy, Matt. 29
- McGee, Joe B. 169
- McIntyre, Jas., facing 255
- McKee, Andy 321
- McNish, Frank E. 25
- Melville, Chas. 217
- Meyering, Frank 309
- Mills, Gus. 201
- Monroe, Ned. 33
- Montgomery, Dave 153-196
- Montgomery, “Scamp” 329
- Moore, “Pony” 65-225
- Moran, Frank 85
- Moreland, Arthur 313
- Morrell, Frank 193
- Morris, Billy 117
- Morris, Chas. A. 121
- Morris, Lon. 117
- Morse, Harry M. 313
- Morton, J. W. 301
- Morton, Will H. 333
- Mudge, “Hank” 149
- Mullally, W. S. 105
- Mulligan, John 41
- Mulligan, Mrs. John 209
- Murphy, Joe. 113-153
- Murphy, J. B. 217
- Myers, “Ole Bull” 21
-
- N
-
- Newcomb, Bobby 233
- Newcomb, Mrs. Bobby 209
- Newcomb, W. W. 65
- Niles, P. J. 249
- Norcross, Jos. M. 313
- Norman, Harry 165
- Norton, Wash. 233
-
- O
-
- Oakland, Will 249
- Oberist, John F. 217
- O’Brien, John 253
- O’Brien, Neil 305, facing 330
- O’Day, Billy 329
- Olcott, Chauncey 196
-
- P
-
- Palmer, Chas. C. 309
- Parker, Lew. 41
- Parr, Chas. 305
- Pastor, Tony 49
- Patti, Greg. 145
- Payton, Corse 196
- Pearl, Charley 289
- Peasley, John A. 81
- Peel, Matt. 65
- Peel, Tommy 349
- Pelham, Dick 13
- Pell, Gilbert W. 69
- Pell, Harry 85
- Pell, Jas. 33
- Pell, Johnny 117
- Pendy, John 41
- Pettengill, Charley 353
- Pettengill, Mrs. Charley 209
- Pickert, Willis 341
- Powers, Jas. T. 197
- Prendergast, Tom. 217
- Primrose, Geo. H. 293-305
- Purdy, S. S. 149
-
- Q
-
- Queen, Chas., facing 118
- Queen, John 81
- Queen, Johnny 173
- Quilter, Dick 33
-
- R
-
- Ralph, Dick 221
- Raymond, Maude 273
- Raynor, J. W. 93
- Read, Beaumont 165
- Reed, Charley 353
- Reed, Dave. 113
- Reynolds, Chas. 317
- Reynolds, Charley 353
- Reynolds, Geo. 317
- “Ricardo,” 201
- Rice, Billy 73-161
- Rice, Mrs. Billy 209
- Rice, “Daddy” 9
- Rice, Dan. 49
- Rice, Edw. Le Roy, Frontispiece, 2-305
- Rice, Johnny 57
- Rice, John C. 196-277
- Rice, Wm. Henry 81-141-237
- Richardson, Billy 85
- Richmond, Harry G. 89
- Rickey, Sam. 129
- Rigby, Arthur C. 129
- Robinson, Harry 121
- Robinson, Justin 241
- Rockefeller, Geo. W. 145
- Roe, Harry W. 281
- Rogers, Neil 89
- Rogers, Stevie 321
- Romain, Manuel 193
- Rumsey, Hy. 53
- Rushby, Horace 281
- Russell, Jas. G. 165
- Ryman, Add. 245
-
- S
-
- Sandford, Jim 21
- Sands, Edw. 177
- Sanford, Jas. 81
- Sanford, Sam. 37
- Schoolcraft, Luke 357
- Scott, Wm. 305
- Seamon, Chas. V. 177
- Seymour, Nelse 65-99
- Sharpley, Sam. 37
- Shaw, Raymond 281
- Shay, Johnny 97
- Sheffer, “Buck” 301
- Shelby, Dan. 41
- Shepard, Burt. 241
- Sheppard, Billy 233
- Sheppard, Bob. 181
- Sheppard, Frank 361
- Sheridan, John F. 349
- Shirley, Harry 281
- Shunk, Harry C. 77
- Simmons, Lew. 173
- Sinclair, Geo. 305
- Sitgreaves, Beverly 273
- Skiff, M. T. 97
- Skinner, Otis 197
- Slavin, Bob. 97
- Sliter, Dick 233
- Slocum, E. N. 333
- Slocum, Mrs. E. N. 209
- Smith, Harry W. 101
- Smith, John P. 365
- Smith, Wm. H. 365
- Spooner, Cecil 273
- Spooner, Edna May 273
- Stanley, Burton 201
- Stanwood, Harry 265
- Stanwood, Moody 69
- Stine, Chas. J. 77
- Stone, Fred. 153-196
- Stratton, Eugene 97
- Strickland, W. H. 365
- “Stuart” 201
- Sullivan, John L. 196
- Surridge, J. H. 165
- Sutton, Charley 353
- Sweatnam, Willis P. 29
- Sweeney, Dick 9
- Sweeney, Joe. 9-185
-
- T
-
- Talbott, Harry 113
- Templeton, Chas. 217
- Thatcher, Geo. 293
- Thomas, Wally 233
- Thompson, Denman 197
- Thompson, Johnny 25
- Thompson, John W. 97
- Tierney, Jas. (T. & W.) 173
- Tierney, Jas. M. (T. & C.) 357
- Tilla, Haydon 281
- Trowbridge, Jos. T. 117
- Turner, Tommy 177
- Tyrrell, Bob. 281
-
- U
-
- Unsworth, James 85
-
- V
-
- Van, Billy 169
- Van, Billy B. 197
- Vaughn, Tom. 45
- Vernon, Paul 241
- Vokes, Harry 197
-
- W
-
- Wagner, “Happy” Cal. 97-161
- Waldron, Dan. 29
- Wallace, Franklyn 305
- Wambold, Dave. 117
- Ward, Frank 25
- Ward, “Hap” 197
- Ward, Wm. H. 33
- Warfield, Tom. 265
- Warner, Chas. F. 309
- Waters, Tom, (Waters & Kelly) 361
- Waters, Tom. 89
- Wayne, Burt. 349
- Wayne, Chas. 173
- Weaver, Add. 245
- Weber, Jos. 197
- Welby, Jake 289
- Welch, Billy 57-285
- Welch, Fayette 65
- Wells, Sam. 333
- Weslyn, Everett 317
- West, Luke 129
- West, Ned 129
- West, Wm. (see Will Cox) 173
- West, Wm. H. 333
- Wheeler, Matt. 101
- White, Archie 205
- White, Chas. T. 229
- White, “Cool” 21-245
- White, Frank H. 173
- White, Wm. 69
- Whitlock, Billy 13
- Wild, Frank 245
- Wild, John 245
- Wilkes, Geo. 201
- Williams, Barney 49
- Williams, Bert. 297
- Williams, Billy 177
- Williams, Percy G. 196
- Williams, Tom. 221
- Willis, Oscar 53
- Wills, Nat. 196
- Wilson, Chas. 81
- Wilson, Dave. 101
- Wilson, Francis 153-197
- Wilson, Fred. 225
- Wilson, Geo. 293
- Winter, Banks 193
- Wood, Billy 361
- Woodson, Harry 205
-
- Y
-
- Yeamans, Jennie 273
-
-
-
-
-MINSTREL ORGANIZATIONS, THEATRES AND PROGRAMS
-
-
- Barlow, Wilson & Rankin’s 261
- Bryant’s (Program) 185
- Callan, Haley & Callan’s 213
- Callender’s 285
- Campbell’s 93
- Christy’s 45
- Christy’s 17
- Cohan & Harris’ 325
- Duprez & Green’s 141
- Eleventh Street Opera House, Philadelphia 61
- Ethiopian Serenaders 69
- Federal Theatre, Boston 5
- “Lambs” Minstrels 345
- Mechanics Hall, New York 61
- Morris Bros., Pell & Trowbridge’s, Boston 117
- Robinson’s Harry 189
- San Franciscos, New York 117
- Sweeney, Joe (Program) 185
- Virginia Serenaders 21
-
-
-
-
-SKETCH OF THE AUTHOR, WITH PERSONAL RECOLLECTIONS.
-
-
-[Illustration: “THE INCEPTION OF NEGRO MINSTRELSY.”]
-
-Let me begin by saying that I am not a “Monarch of Minstrelsy,” not
-even a duke or prince; as a matter of fact I am a mere subject, perhaps
-it would be more exact to say I am a slave, for I cannot recall the
-time when the curtain having been rung up on the first part, the
-interlocutor saying, “Gentlemen, be seated,” that it did not thrill me
-through and through; in all probability they would have been seated
-without his invitation, but still, disappointment would have been keen
-had he not have done so. Then the overture accompanied by the bones and
-tambos; but that part of the performance seems to be obsolete now; and
-how I yearn for it. The second son of the late Wm. Henry Rice, who put
-on cork for nearly fifty years, I was born in New York City, August 24,
-1871, on Fourteenth Street, nearly opposite the Armory, above Sixth
-Avenue. If you happen to see a crowd around there at any time, you will
-know it is part of the excited populace trying to carry away portions
-of the building which housed me on my first appearance in any country.
-
-I can remember, as a youngster even before my school days began, my
-father asking me if I wanted to be a minstrel? I knew that my mother
-was averse to it and, as they both looked at me awaiting my reply, I
-vehemently said NO; that was the first lie I ever told. I have done
-better subsequently, but they have no bearing on this matter. When I
-was about six or eight years of age, my father, wishing to celebrate
-the occasion in a fitting manner, took me down town (Philadelphia) and
-giving me my choice to go in one direction and see “Jack the Giant
-Killer,” or take another route and see the minstrels. I had heard a
-whole lot about the youthful prodigy who made a business of trimming
-big husky gents for the sake of getting an appetite that he might
-better enjoy his meals, and confess to a feeling of curiosity; but it
-was the “nigger singers” for mine, and it was there that I obtained my
-first recollection of any individual performer. It was Bobby Newcomb
-doing Topsy. Whether it was an “Uncle Tom” show, with which the late
-minstrel was prominently identified at one time, or whether it was a
-burletta on Mrs. Stowe’s immortal work, I never learned, but Newcomb’s
-dress, a ragbag affair, I remember distinctly, subsequently, one made
-from an American flag, finishing with the well-known suit of white
-duck in knee-breeches. That was the beginning. I decided then that a
-minstrel’s life was the life for me, and for years I importuned my
-father to take me on the road with him, finally obtaining a promise
-to go the next time he took a show out. This was somewhat hazy, but
-I clung to it tenaciously, and when in July, 1890, he organized
-the World’s Fair Minstrels, my happiness was unbounded. I was in
-Philadelphia at the time, passing cigars and tobacco over the counter
-of a Smoke Emporium presided over by Lew Simmons, one of the oldest
-active minstrels in harness to-day; observe the date again, please.
-July, 1890, was it not? At that time Lew had given up the minstrel
-business entirely. I recall Lew Dockstader dropping in one day and
-inquiring how he (Simmons) liked the business? “Like it?” said the
-senior Lew, “why I am perfectly happy; I wouldn’t go back in the
-business again for $100 per week.” (I remember it was PER week.) But he
-did, a couple of years later, and from all appearances looks good for a
-few more. I joined my father’s troupe. We opened at Elizabeth, N. J.,
-on July 17th. In the company were Billy Birch, Frank Moran, Frank Kent
-and Bob Slavin; all since passed away.
-
-Old minstrel _habitues_ will recall that nigger-act wherein one of the
-performers declares loudly to his friends that he is boss in his own
-home, how he rules the ranch and so on; and just as he is saying it
-his wife would show up then he would inflict dire punishment upon her,
-she comes running down the aisle from the front of the house saying,
-“Where’s my husband?” gathers her lesser half by the ear and amidst the
-jeers of his companions, carries him away.
-
-[Illustration: Being a Truthful Portrayal of the Author’s First
-Appearance on Any Stage; Morristown, N. J., July 18, 1890.]
-
-At the second performance, at Morristown, N. J., I was cast for the
-enraged spouse. I believe I was made up for the part fully an hour
-before the house opened. How nervous I was awaiting my cue, but when
-it came, my ears seemed to hear nothing but wife, wife, wife, and
-instead of saying, “Where’s my husband?” I said, “Where’s my wife?”
-* * * I won’t repeat what my father said, but what with the tears of
-mortification that flowed from my eyes and the perspiration from the
-pores of my face, almost made washing-up a superfluity.
-
-After that awful first night I got away with the part without any
-trouble, and even indulged in conversations while awaiting my cue,
-which I had always thought to be a physical impossibility.
-
-Billy Birch, who was with us, used to suffer severely from rheumatism,
-and just before parade would say to me, “‘Cully,’ would you mind
-going over to the hotel, on the bureau, right hand side, and get my
-medicine?” Would I go? I felt honored.
-
-At the opening performance we had a song and dance team who, like
-myself, were just breaking into the business. Their act was not an
-unqualified success and extra tickets to Morristown were not purchased.
-Some one asked Bob Slavin what he thought of the act, to which he
-replied: “As a success, they’re a failure; as a failure, they’re a
-success.”
-
-The company closed early in November and a couple of weeks before
-Christmas I consented to wrap parcels at Wanamaker’s store in
-Philadelphia for a small weekly stipend. It was hard to work for wages
-after having received a salary.
-
-Various mercantile positions were mine until the Fall of 1894, when the
-late Harry Mann opened the old Arch Street Theatre in Philadelphia for
-the production of the old farces such as “Box and Cox” and others of a
-like nature. I had heard that there were to be specialties between the
-acts, wrote for an engagement and shortly afterwards received a reply
-from Mr. Mann asking me to call. (I have that letter yet.) I told him
-that I had a black-face monologue that was absolutely original; he told
-me that he could get Willis P. Sweatnam, but decided to give me the
-preference, I was quick to reply that I wasn’t as good as Sweatnam.
-(I was frightfully modest those days.) However, I was engaged, and
-was to receive $10 for my week’s services; I was certain he could not
-get Sweatnam for less than $12.50 or possibly $15. Monday, September
-24, we opened; I wore a pale-blue suit and a pleasant expression; on
-Tuesday I still had the suit, but had lost the expression, caused by
-the sudden closing of the house. I have always maintained that if I
-had been billed stronger, the house might have remained open longer;
-possibly another night; the $1.67 due me for my one performance, I
-never received, but as compensation, one of the papers said that my
-monologue, besides being good in itself, was excellently rendered. It’s
-not true that the reporter who wrote this, attended a prizefight that
-evening. I banked a whole lot on that blue suit; it was part of my plan
-to be different from any other monologist, and I still think I was.
-Instead of making my entrance in the conventional manner, I hit upon
-the idea of having one of the scenes part in the centre, and then walk
-on saying, “I just blew in,” carelessly pointing to my blue suit at the
-same time.
-
-The more I thought of this, the greater the sensation I was sure I
-would create; I pictured the reserves being called upon to quell the
-riot; I saw myself taking encore after encore, and conjured the immense
-audience rising in their seats as one, begging for just one more
-glimpse of that blue suit; I was so sure of my success to be, that in a
-burst of confidence, I told a friend about my idea, and was horrified
-to learn that George Thatcher had done the self-same thing some time
-before. Here was a dilemma, what was I to do? I had known Thatcher
-from boyhood, and the idea of utilizing any of his ideas was not to
-be thought of; fortunately, about this time, he (Thatcher) played an
-engagement at the National Theatre (Philadelphia), and I decided to
-see him and explain the situation thoroughly. I found him one evening
-standing on the steps of the theatre; I told the whole story, reserving
-nothing, and explained that I was willing to relinquish my idea if he
-thought it would conflict with him in any way, but with rare generosity
-he agreed not to prosecute me for plagiarism or piracy.
-
-A week later I opened at Easton, Pa. I had a cold in the head and an
-old wig; the cold I obtained in Philadelphia, the wig in Easton, it
-was an old one (the wig) having lost my good one in Philly the week
-previous. * * * An uncle of mine graciously advanced me the price of
-a ticket to Philadelphia. * * * The watch was worth considerably more
-than $2. Six months later I might have been seen doing my specialty in
-Paterson, N. J.; provided you came Monday afternoon. * * * A performer
-in the same dressing-room asked me how much I paid for my trunk,
-which was a duplicate of his; $6 I said; why, I paid $12 for mine, he
-averred. And that was all I got out of the engagement. But that suit,
-little did the young lady who made it for me dream it would one day
-become historical; she is now a sedate matron in Detroit. Wonder if she
-still remembers it?
-
-In the fall of 1898 I was a member of one of the many California
-Minstrel organizations that have invaded the country in the past fifty
-years. The Spring and Summer of 1900 found me selling pasteboards to
-the Southerners while with the Primrose & Dockstader Minstrels; in the
-Fall of 1900 I was agent for Andrew Robson in “The Royal Box;” 1901-02,
-agent for “Pud’dnhead Wilson,” with William S. Gill in the name part,
-Walker Whiteside, and a return to Primrose & Dockstader; 1902-03,
-manager, Western Alphonse & Gaston Co.; 1903-04, treasurer, Great
-Lafayette Company.
-
-At various times I acted as usher and lithographer at the Park, Walnut
-and Arch Street Theatres in Philadelphia; Columbus Theatre, New York
-City, and the Park in Brooklyn.
-
-In July, 1907, I conceived the idea of appearing daily at the ball
-games in New York City, and in the following afternoon’s paper give
-an accurate account of the conversations entered into, together with
-the description of the parties spoken to; in addition having my own
-features reproduced daily together with an accurate description of
-myself; to any party who could single me out was given a free pass to
-all the ball games on the ground where I was detected.
-
-Under the title of the “Man in the Bleachers” I ran those on the New
-York _Evening World_ with great success for five weeks.
-
-Then came the idea of giving to the world the lives and careers of the
-minstrels, thus “presenting to the public and preserving to posterity
-the peculiarities and personalities of prominent performers of the past
-and present;” and here it is, after three years’ exhaustive and patient
-labor. Now for the big show.
-
-
-
-
-THE FIRST BLACK-FACE PERFORMER.
-
-
-The late Laurence Hutton in “The Negro on the Stage,” states that
-Shakespeare’s Othello was one of the earliest black-face stage
-characters; giving the date of the appearance at the Globe Theatre,
-London, England, on April 30, 1610; Oronoko followed in 1696. But
-several hundred years before the jealous Moor’s appearance, a couple of
-young men, named Cain and Abel respectively, did a brother act, though
-not necessarily a brotherly act, for the first-named gentleman one day
-in a fit of peevishness did smite Master Abel with such force that the
-breath did leave his body; Cain was punished, as he should have been;
-his complexion was changed from Caucasian to Ethiopian; this was the
-_first black face turn_. Anyway, that’s how the story runs. With the
-reader’s permission we will skip about 1,700 years, and come down to
-the comparative present.
-
-The late Charles T. White, who made a study of minstrelsy all his life
-and was himself contemporaneous with it from its inception, stated that
-according to Russell’s Boston _Gazette_ of December 30, 1799, at the
-Federal Theatre, Boston, a Mr. Graupner sang a song called “The Negro
-Boy.”
-
-[Illustration: FEDERAL THEATRE, BOSTON, MASS.
-
-The First Recorded Black-Face Act Was Given Here December 30, 1799.]
-
-W. W. Clapp, Jr., in his “History of the Boston Stage,” avers that this
-would be impossible, as the news of George Washington’s death, December
-14, 1799, did not reach Boston until December 24, and that the theatre
-was closed a week in consequence thereof. Granting this, six days would
-have elapsed, and the performance undoubtedly was given, for had it
-not, the advertisement which was inserted announcing the performance
-for that evening, would not under any circumstances have been printed.
-However, for the sake of argument, let us concede that the first
-black-face appearance (the term black-face as used here has reference
-to a single performer doing a specialty) was not on the date specified.
-
-The next mention of a black-face performer, by Mr. White, was in
-1815, when an actor known as “Pot Pie” Herbert sang “The Battle of
-Plattsburg” in Albany; Mr. H. D. Stone in the “Drama,” published
-in Albany in 1873, credits one “Hop” Robinson as the singer of the
-song; while “Sol” Smith, a reputed eye-witness, in his (Smith’s)
-autobiography, published in 1868, credits it to Andrew Jackson Allen,
-claiming that Allen sang it at the Green Street Theatre, Albany, 1815,
-playing a black-face character. Obviously there could be but one
-“first” and a period of fifteen years had apparently elapsed between
-the reputed appearance of Mr. Graupner and the last named gentleman; in
-other words, no claims have been made for others between 1799 and 1815.
-Nevertheless, there _was_ an appearance between these dates, and by
-none other than Mr. Graupner himself, who, on September 4, 1809 (while
-“Daddy” Rice was an infant in swaddling clothes), appeared as the
-“Gay Negro Boy” in a circus at Taunton, Mass.; the honor then beyond
-any doubt is Mr. Graupner’s; and equally certain is the fact that he
-appeared in Boston, December 30, 1799. Black-face performers sprang up
-rapidly, and in earlier days no circus was considered complete without
-at least one of them.
-
-
-
-
-SOME EARLY BLACK-FACE PERFORMERS.
-
-The following were all popular performers preceding minstrelsy proper;
-unfortunately the dates of their deaths are practically shrouded in
-oblivion:
-
-George Nichols; Bob. Farrell, the original “Zip Coon”; Sam Tatnall,
-Barney Burns, Bill Keller, Horatio Eversell, George Rice (brother of
-T. D. Rice), William M. Hall, Thomas Blakely, Leicester, etc. Andrew
-Jackson Allen, already mentioned, was born in New York City in 1776,
-and according to Laurence Hutton was the costumer, dresser and personal
-slave of Edwin Forrest for many years; he was quite deaf, and was
-commonly known as “Dummy” Allen. He died in New York City, October
-29, 1853. James Roberts, by the same authority, sang a song in negro
-character as early as October 7, 1824; he died in 1833.
-
-George Washington Dixon sang “Coal Black Rose,” the air of which was
-appropriated from an old ballad, as early as 1827. His first New York
-appearance was of the Lafayette Theatre, July 19, 1828. He later became
-notorious as a filibuster during the Yucatan disturbances, and died in
-New Orleans in 1861. Some prominent early minstrel performers whose
-records and deaths were likewise lost in oblivion are: Charley Jenkins,
-Master Chestnut, Harry Mestayer, Neil Jamison and many more. There are
-others, too, of nearly every decade of whom the author has made every
-research to gather some knowledge, but without success.
-
-
-
-
-“DADDY” RICE.
-
-
-Thomas Dartmouth Rice was the original “Jim Crow,” the story has been
-told in many ways, but the authentic version appeared in the _Atlantic
-Monthly_ in 1867, and herewith is reproduced verbatim; it is from the
-pen of Robert P. Nevin.
-
-“Thirty-six years ago a young man, about twenty-five years of age,
-of a commanding height--six feet full, the heels of his boots not
-included in the reckoning--and dressed in scrupulous keeping with
-the fashion of the time, might have been seen sauntering idly along
-one of the principal streets of Cincinnati. To the few who could
-claim acquaintance with him he was known as an actor, playing at the
-time referred to a short engagement as light comedian in a theatre
-of that city. He does not seem to have attained to any noticeable
-degree of eminence in his profession, but he had established for
-himself a reputation among jolly fellows in a social way. He could
-tell a story, sing a song, and dance a hornpipe, after a style which,
-however, unequal to complete success on the stage, proved, in private
-performance to select circles rendered appreciative by accessory
-refreshments, famously triumphant always. If it must be confessed
-that he was deficient in the more profound qualities, it is not to
-be inferred that he was destitute of all the distinguishing, though
-shallower, virtues of character. He had the merit, too, of a proper
-appreciation of his own capacity; and his aims never rose above that
-capacity. As a superficial man he dealt with superficial things, and
-his dealings were marked by tact and shrewdness. In his sphere he was
-proficient, and he kept his wits upon the alert for everything that
-might be turned to professional and profitable use. Thus it was that,
-as he sauntered along one of the main thoroughfares of Cincinnati,
-as has been written, his attention was suddenly arrested by a voice
-ringing clear and full above the noises of the street, and giving
-utterance, in an unmistakable dialect, to the refrain of a song to this
-effect:
-
- “Turn about an’ wheel about an’ do jis so,
- An’ ebery time I turn about I jump Jim Crow.”
-
-Struck by the peculiarities of the performance, so unique in style,
-matter, and “character” of delivery, the player listened on. Were not
-these elements--was the suggestion of the instant--which might admit
-of higher than mere street or stable-yard development? As a national
-or “race” illustration, behind the footlights, might not “Jim Crow”
-and a black face tickle the fancy of pit and circle, as well as the
-“Sprig of Shillalah” and a red nose? Out of the suggestion leaped
-the determination; and so it chanced that the casual hearing of a
-song trolled by a negro stage-driver, lolling lazily on the box of
-his vehicle, gave origin to a school of music destined to excel in
-popularity all others, and to make the name of the obscure actor, T. D.
-Rice, famous.
-
-As his engagement at Cincinnati had nearly expired, Rice deemed it
-expedient to postpone a public venture in the newly projected line
-until the opening of a fresh engagement should assure him opportunity
-to share fairly the benefit expected to grow out of the experiment.
-This engagement had already been entered into; and accordingly, shortly
-after, in the Autumn of 1830, he left Cincinnati for Pittsburg.
-
-The old theatre of Pittsburg occupied the site of the present one,
-on Fifth Street. It was an unpretending structure, rudely built of
-boards, and of moderate proportions, but sufficient, nevertheless, to
-satisfy the taste and secure the comfort of the few who dared to face
-consequences and lend patronage to an establishment under the ban of
-the Scotch-Irish Calvinists. Entering upon duty at the “Old Drury”
-of the “Birmingham of America,” Rice prepared to take advantage of
-his opportunity. There was a negro in attendance at Griffith’s Hotel,
-on Wood Street, named Cuff--an exquisite specimen of his sort--who
-won a precarious subsistence by letting his open mouth as a mark
-for boys to pitch pennies into, at three paces, and by carrying the
-trunks of passengers from the steamboats to the hotels. Cuff was
-precisely the subject for Rice’s purpose. Slight persuasion induced
-him to accompany the actor to the theatre, where he was led through
-the private entrance, and quietly ensconced behind the scenes. After
-the play, Rice, having shaded his own countenance to the “contraband”
-hue, ordered Cuff to disrobe, and proceeded to invest himself in the
-cast-off apparel. When the arrangements were complete, the bell rang,
-and Rice, habited in an old coat forlornly dilapidated, with a pair of
-shoes composed equally of patches and places for patches on his feet,
-and wearing a coarse straw hat in a melancholy condition of rent and
-collapse over a dense black wig of matted moss, waddled into view.
-The extraordinary apparition produced an instant effect. The crash of
-peanuts ceased in the pit, and through the circles passed a murmur and
-a bustle of liveliest expectation. The orchestra opened with a short
-prelude, and to its accompaniment Rice began to sing, delivering the
-first line by way of introductory recitative:
-
- “O, Jim Crow’s come to town, as you all must know,
- An’ he wheel about, he turn about, he do jis so,
- An’ ebery time he wheel about he jump Jim Crow.”
-
-The effect was electric. Such a thunder of applause as followed was
-never heard before within the shell of that old theatre. With each
-succeeding couplet and refrain the uproar was renewed, until presently,
-when the performer, gathering courage from the favorable temper of
-his audience, ventured to improvise matter for his distiches from
-familiarly known local incidents, the demonstrations were deafening.
-
-Now it happened that Cuff, who meanwhile was crouching in _dishabille_
-under concealment of a projecting _flat_ behind the performer, by
-some means received intelligence, at this point, of the near approach
-of a steamer to the Monongahela Wharf. Between himself and others of
-his color in the same line of business, and especially as regarded a
-certain formidable competitor called Ginger, there existed an active
-rivalry in the baggage-carrying business. For Cuff to allow Ginger the
-advantage of an undisputed descent upon the luggage of the approaching
-vessel would be not only to forfeit all “considerations” from the
-passengers, but, by proving him a laggard in his calling, to cast
-a damaging blemish upon his reputation. Liberally as he might lend
-himself to a friend, it could not be done at that sacrifice. After a
-minute or two of fidgety waiting for the song to end, Cuff’s patience
-could endure no longer, and, cautiously hazarding a glimpse of his
-profile beyond the edge of the flat, he called in a hurried whisper:
-“Massa Rice, Massa Rice, must have my clo’se! Massa Griffif wants
-me--steamboat’s comin’!”
-
-The appeal was fruitless. Massa Rice did not hear it, for a happy
-hit at an unpopular city functionary had set the audience in a roar
-in which all other sounds were lost. Waiting some moments longer,
-the restless Cuff, thrusting his visage from under cover into full
-three-quarter view this time, again charged upon the singer in the same
-words, but with more emphatic voice: “Massa Rice, Massa Rice, must have
-my clo’se! Massa Griffif wants me--_steamboat’s comin’_!”
-
-[Illustration:
-
- “DADDY” RICE
-
- NED HARPER
-
- JOE. SWEENEY
-
- DICK. SWEENEY
-
-BLACK-FACE PERFORMERS WHO ANTEDATED MINSTRELSY PROPER.]
-
-A still more successful couplet brought a still more tempestuous
-response, and the invocation of the baggage-carrier was unheard and
-unheeded. Driven to desperation, and forgetful in the emergency of
-every sense of propriety, Cuff, in ludicrous undress as he was, started
-from his place, rushed upon the stage, and laying his hand upon the
-performer’s shoulder, called out excitedly: “Massa Rice, Massa Rice,
-gi’ me nigga’s hat--nigga’s coat--nigga’s shoes--gi’ me nigga’s t’ings!
-Massa Griffif wants ’im--STEAMBOAT’S COMIN’!!”
-
-The incident was the touch, in the mirthful experience of that
-night, that passed endurance. Pit and circles were one scene of
-such convulsive merriment that it was impossible to proceed in the
-performance; and the extinguishment of the footlights, the fall of the
-curtain, and the throwing wide of the doors for exit, indicated that
-the entertainment was ended.
-
-Such were the circumstances--authentic in every particular--under which
-the first work of the distinct art of Negro Minstrelsy was presented.
-
-Next day found the song of Jim Crow, in one style of delivery or
-another, on everybody’s tongue. Clerks hummed it serving customers at
-shop counters, artisans thundered it at their toils to the time-beat
-of sledge and of tilt-hammer, boys whistled it on the streets, ladies
-warbled it in parlors, and house-maids repeated it to the clink of
-crockery in kitchens. Rice made up his mind to profit further by its
-popularity: he determined to publish it. Mr. W. C. Peters, afterwards
-of Cincinnati, and well known as a composer and publisher, was at that
-time a music dealer on Market Street in Pittsburg. Rice, ignorant
-himself of the simplest elements of musical science, waited upon Mr.
-Peters, and solicited his co-operation in the preparation of his song
-for the press. Some difficulty was experienced before Rice could be
-induced to consent to the correction of certain trifling informalities,
-rhythmical mainly, in his melody; but, yielding finally, the air as
-it now stands, with a pianoforte accompaniment by Mr. Peters, was put
-upon paper. The manuscript was put into the hands of Mr. John Newton,
-who reproduced it on stone with an elaborately embellished title-page,
-including a portrait of the subject of the song, precisely as it has
-been copied through succeeding editions to the present time. It was the
-first specimen of lithography ever executed in Pittsburg.
-
-Jim Crow was repeated nightly throughout the season at the theatre;
-and when that was ended, Beale’s Long Room, at the corner of Third and
-Market Streets, was engaged for rehearsals exclusively in the Ethiopian
-line. “Clar de Kitchen” soon appeared as a companion piece, followed
-speedily by “Lucy Long,” “Sich a Gittin’ up Stairs,” “Long-Tail Blue,”
-and so on, until quite a repertoire was at command from which to select
-for an evening’s entertainment.
-
-Rice remained in Pittsburg some two years. He then visited
-Philadelphia, Boston, and New York, whence he sailed for England, where
-he met with high favor in his novel character.
-
-Before he sang “Jim Crow,” Rice was considered only a mediocre
-performer. Jos. N. Ireland, in his “Records of the New York Stage,”
-says that he drew more money to the Bowery Theatre than any other
-performer in the same period of time. His appearances were generally
-with dramatic organizations, where he usually performed between the
-acts. His minstrel performances were comparatively few, and mostly
-confined to Charley White’s Serenaders; though he played a star
-engagement at Wood’s Minstrels in August, 1858, also in New York. At
-the Bowery Theatre in the Metropolis, he appeared with much success
-for several weeks as Uncle Tom, commencing January 16, 1854. He was
-the author of several early negro farces, the most popular being, “Oh,
-Hush!” “The Mummy” and “Bone Squash.” The first New York performance of
-“O, Hush” was given August 15, 1832. He was noted for his eccentricity
-of dress; the buttons on his coat and vest were five and ten dollar
-gold pieces, which he would give away indiscriminately as souvenirs. He
-married a Miss Gladstone in England, June 18, 1837. “Daddy” Rice was
-born in New York City, May 20, 1808. He died there September 19, 1860.
-
-
-
-
-THE FIRST MINSTREL PERFORMANCE.
-
-
-There has always been considerable discussion as to the exact date
-when this interesting event took place; two things are certain, and
-have never been disputed, viz.: that it actually did occur, and that
-the initial presentation was in New York City, between January 31 and
-February 17, 1843.
-
-That the idea of amalgamating the respective talents of the original
-four, Emmett, Brower, Pelham and Whitlock, was conceived by the latter,
-there is no doubt; the following was furnished by him many years before
-his death.
-
-“The organization of the minstrels I claim to be my own idea, and it
-cannot be blotted out. One day I asked Dan Emmett, who was in New
-York at the time, to practice the fiddle and the banjo with me at his
-boarding-house in Catherine Street. We went down there, and when we
-had practiced, Frank Brower called in by accident. He listened to our
-music, charmed to his soul! I told him to join with the bones, which
-he did. Presently Dick Pelham came in, also by accident, and looked
-amazed. I asked him to procure a tambourine and make one of the party,
-and he went out and got one. After practicing for a while we went to
-the old resort of the circus crowd--the ‘Branch,’ in the Bowery--with
-our instruments, and in Bartlett’s billiard-room performed for the
-first time as the Virginia Minstrels. A program was made out, and the
-first time we appeared upon the stage before an audience was for the
-benefit of Pelham at the Chatham Theatre. The house was crammed--jammed
-with our friends; and Dick, of course, put ducats in his purse.”
-
-The house on Catherine Street was No. 37, and was kept by a Mrs.
-Brooks. The “Branch” was a hotel opposite the Bowery Amphitheatre.
-
-On January 31, 1843, Dick Pelham did have a benefit, but the
-performance was of the ordinary nature; nothing unusual, such as a
-quartet of black-face performers appearing at one time, which would
-have caused considerable stir; thus may we eliminate January 31, 1843,
-as the date of the first performance in public.
-
-The following announcement appeared on February 6:
-
- BOWERY AMPHITHEATRE,
-
- Monday evening, Feb. 6. 1843, first night of the novel, grotesque,
- original and surpassingly melodious Ethiopian Band entitled
-
- THE VIRGINIA MINSTRELS
-
- Being an exclusively minstrel entertainment combining the banjo,
- violin, bone castanets and the tambourine, and entirely exempt from
- the vulgarities and other objectionable features which have hitherto
- characterized negro extravaganzas.
-
-[Illustration: 11:45 FROM THE HOTEL]
-
-The New York _Herald_ commented on the performance for the first time
-on February 9.
-
-The quartet remained at the Bowery Amphitheatre until February 11;
-five days later they were over Cornucopia Hall, at No. 28 Park Row;
-February 22, they began an engagement at the Park Theatre, and shortly
-afterwards went to Boston, where they played at Melodeon Hall for a
-few weeks, and sailed from New York, April 21, 1843. May 21, they gave
-their first performance at Liverpool, England, at the Concert Rooms on
-Concert Street; subsequently playing a week in Manchester, and thence
-to the Adelphi in London, where they remained one month; the original
-four disbanded then.
-
-
-BILLY WHITLOCK
-
-was a typesetter on the New York _Herald_, and appeared at various
-theatres in the evening, while retaining his position during the day.
-
-He made his first appearance in New York City in 1835, as Cuff in “O,
-Hush.” He resigned from the _Herald_ in 1837, and went with a circus;
-he returned to New York, and in the Winter of 1839 was engaged by P. T.
-Barnum to play the banjo for John Diamond, the great dancer.
-
-Mr. Whitlock was the first to return to the United States after the
-dissolution of the original company; he arrived about August, 1844;
-subsequently appearing with various small organizations and circuses.
-
-For many years he traveled as a Yankee comedian, and was also an actor
-at the Bowery Theatre about 1853; he was the composer of “Lucy Long,”
-one of the great songs of early minstrelsy. His last appearance was
-with Dan Rice’s Circus in 1855.
-
-His daughter married Edwin Adams, the great actor.
-
-It is a strange thing that no one seems to know where Mr. Whitlock is
-buried. Billy Whitlock was born in New York City, 1813; he died at Long
-Branch, N. J., March 29, 1878.
-
-
-DICK PELHAM (Richard Ward Pell),
-
-like Billy Whitlock, made his first appearance in his native city in
-“O, Hush,” in 1835. February 13, 1840, he danced against John Diamond
-in New York City.
-
-November 14, 1842, he appeared at the Franklin Theatre in New York, and
-on January 16, 1843, he had a benefit at the Amphitheatre, on which
-occasion he appeared in sixteen songs and dances, and played in the
-farce “Negro Assurance;” yet we think continuous performances are of
-recent origin. After the dissolution of the original four in England,
-Mr. Pelham played an extended engagement at Sadler’s Wells Theatre in
-London. April 22, 1844, in conjunction with Dan. Emmett, Frank Brower
-and Joe Sweeney, they reorganized their little band and opened in
-Dublin, Ireland; at the Theatre Royal, afterwards, appearing in Cork,
-Belfast, Glasgow and Edinburgh, after which they disbanded.
-
-Mr. Pell subsequently organized Pell’s Serenaders, and played all
-the large cities in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. His last
-appearance was at Birmingham, England, August 19, 1856.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- BILLY WHITLOCK
-
- DICK PELHAM
-
- DAN. EMMETT
-
- FRANK BROWER]
-
-The above four performers gave in New York City, February 6, 1843, the
-first minstrel performance ever given; they were known as the Virginia
-Minstrels.
-
- [Illustration:
-
- R. BISHOP BUCKLEY
-
- JAS. BUCKLEY
-
- SWAINE BUCKLEY
-
- FRED. BUCKLEY
-
-THE ORIGINAL BUCKLEY SERENADERS.]
-
-Dick Pelham was born in New York City, February 13, 1815; he died in
-Liverpool, England, October 8, 1876.
-
-
-DAN. EMMETT (Daniel Decatur Emmett)
-
-was better known to the general public than any of his associates,
-from the fact that he outlived nearly all his contemporaries, and the
-more important one that he was the author of “Dixie,” which will live
-forever.
-
-[Illustration: TOWN HALL TO-NIGHT--MINSTRELS.]
-
-Mr. Emmett first blacked up at the age of sixteen, and two years later
-joined Sam. Stickney’s Circus. At the age of twenty-five, he learned to
-play the banjo, and traveled with Angevine’s Circus until he reached
-New York, in 1842.
-
-In 1843, after leaving his three associates in England, he performed at
-Bolton, Lancashire; he rejoined Pelham and Brower in Dublin, Ireland,
-April 22, 1844, and played with them and Joe Sweeney for several weeks.
-
-Returning to the United States, he appeared with various circus and
-minstrel companies.
-
-In 1853-54 he was part proprietor of White’s Minstrels in New York;
-in 1855 he opened the first minstrel hall in Chicago, at 104 Randolph
-Street.
-
-Emmett’s Minstrels opened at St. Paul, Minn., April 26, 1858; he was
-also associated with Frank Brower in a minstrel company in the 50’s.
-
-Mr. Emmett joined Bryant’s Minstrels in New York City in 1858, and
-remained several years; after Dan Bryant’s death in 1875, he accepted a
-position as leader in the Star Varieties, Chicago. In the Fall of 1881
-he went out with Leavitt’s Minstrels, where in conjunction with several
-old timers, they gave a reproduction of the original Virginia Minstrels
-of 1843.
-
-His last engagement was a tour of the country with Al. G. Field’s
-Minstrels about ten years ago.
-
-An account of the famous song of “I Wish I Was in Dixie,” will be found
-elsewhere.
-
-Dan Emmett was born in Mt. Vernon, Ohio, October 29, 1815, where he
-died, June 28, 1904.
-
-
-FRANK BROWER,
-
-the junior member of the first minstrel company, made his first
-appearance at Dick Myers’ Museum in Philadelphia, doing a song and
-dance, about 1838; subsequently he joined John Robinson’s Circus, and
-later Raymond & Waring’s Circus.
-
-After the separation of the original minstrel company in London in
-1844, Mr. Brower traveled with Cook’s Circus in England; and in the
-Spring of 1844, with Pelham, Sweeney and Emmett, they gave their old
-performance, opening in Dublin, Ireland, April 22, 1844, and playing
-engagements in Cork, Belfast, Glasgow and Edinburgh, after which he
-returned to America and played with some of the principal minstrel and
-circus organizations.
-
-In 1851 he revisited England, appearing as clown with Welch’s Circus.
-February 28, 1856, he opened at Sanford’s Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-His last engagement in minstrelsy was with Tunnison’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia, November 2, 1867; and his last appearance on the stage
-was in the same city, November 22, 1867, at the Walnut Street Theatre,
-in “The Lottery of Love.”
-
-Mr. Brower’s “Happy Uncle Tom” was as perfect a piece of acting, it has
-been said, that has ever been seen on any stage. He was original to a
-degree, and never stooped to vulgarity in any form.
-
-Frank Brower was born in Baltimore, Md., November 20, 1823; he died in
-Philadelphia, June 4, 1874.
-
-
-THE BUCKLEY SERENADERS.
-
-JAMES BUCKLEY, the father of R. Bishop, G. Swayne and Fred Buckley
-was the organizer of the justly famous Buckley Serenaders; they were
-originally known as the Congo Melodists; subsequently upon playing an
-extended engagement in New Orleans, they adopted the title of “New
-Orleans Serenaders”; later using the name they were ever after known by.
-
-Mr. Buckley was leader at Harrington’s Museum in Boston in 1840.
-
-In 1843 he organized the Congo Melodists in Boston, and gave their
-first performance at the Tremont Theatre; in October they were playing
-the Tabernacle, the present site of the Howard Athenaeum. Their
-first New York appearance was in 1845; the following year they went
-to England, where they remained about two years. For family reasons
-each of the four Buckleys adopted different names on this trip, and
-retained them for a time after their return to the United States in
-1848; James Buckley was known as James Burke.
-
-Their metropolitan reappearance was made at the Society Library Rooms,
-corner Broadway and Leonard Street; they played here as early as
-January 3, 1849.
-
-The Buckleys were the first recognized company from the East to visit
-California, which they did in 1852; they played in tents at $3 per
-ticket. In June, 1853, they made their third New York appearance at the
-Chinese Assembly Room, 539 Broadway, which they leased and made into a
-minstrel hall; they remained three years. August 25, 1856, they opened
-at 585 Broadway; their last performance there was January 9, 1858;
-subsequently they played a brief engagement at 444 Broadway, commencing
-two days later.
-
-In May, 1858, they began a brief engagement at the Ordway Hall in
-Boston, and in November, same year, they began a short season at
-Allston Hall on Tremont Street; subsequently returning to New York at
-585 Broadway, opening July 11, 1859.
-
-On March 21, 1860, they sailed again for England, where they met with
-pronounced success; in this engagement they played under their own
-names.
-
-As a matter of actual fact, their success was so great, that rival
-managers became jealous, and succeeded in digging up an old law which
-prevented an opera other than the Royal Opera from being given; as the
-Buckley’s success depended on the production of these operas, which
-they produced on a lavish scale, they were compelled to return to
-America, which they did in 1861. After playing several engagements,
-they returned to Boston and opened at Allston Hall, October 13, 1862.
-December 22, same year, they began an engagement at the Palace of
-Music, New York (the present site of the Fourteenth Street Theatre),
-and June 15, 1863, they again visited Boston, appearing at the new
-hall, corner Chauncey and Summer Streets, remaining until April 9, 1866.
-
-The retirement of James Buckley and the deaths of R. Bishop and Fred
-Buckley, left only G. Swayne Buckley, who reorganized the company and
-toured with intermittent success and failure until about 1876, when the
-Buckley’s Serenaders passed into oblivion.
-
-Such is the history of this famous family whose talents and versatility
-are beyond comprehension to the present generation.
-
-They were the first company to produce burlesque opera, which they did
-on a scale of magnificence never since duplicated.
-
-The company originally consisted of the four members of the family;
-later they were augmented by Sam Sanford and J. C. Collins; this was
-about 1846; in after years many of the prominent lights of the minstrel
-profession appeared on their roster. Mr. Jas. Buckley was the only
-member of the organization who was not active up to the time of his
-death.
-
-James Buckley was born in Manchester, England, 1803; he died in Quincy,
-Mass., April 27, 1872.
-
-
-R. BISHOP BUCKLEY, began his career in 1843 in Boston as member of the
-original Buckley Serenaders.
-
-He was an excellent mimic, accomplished musician and good actor.
-
-He was best known for his performance on the Chinese fiddle, which was
-never equaled except by a native Chinaman. He was the possessor of a
-good tenor voice, which he used easily and gracefully.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- Scenes From
- _THE ORIGINAL CHRISTY MINSTRELS_
- AT MECHANICS HALL, 472 BROADWAY N.Y. IN 1847]
-
-Mr. Buckley was known as J. C. Rainer in the late 40’s while in Europe
-and shortly after their return.
-
-R. Bishop Buckley was born in England, 1826; he died in Quincy, Mass.,
-June 6, 1867.
-
-
-GEORGE SWAYNE BUCKLEY, the most versatile of the famous Buckley family,
-made his first appearance as a prodigy at Harrington’s Museum in
-Boston, in 1840.
-
-Later, while learning to play the banjo, the famous Joe. Sweeney took
-an interest in him, and “starred” him for a lengthy period through the
-country as “Young Sweeney,” which title he used as late as May 15, 1845.
-
-Some idea of Mr. Buckley’s versatility may be gleaned from the fact
-that in one performance he sang a song and done a banjo solo in the
-first part, played a solo on the kitchen bellows in a burlesque on the
-Julien Concerts; gave Locust Hum in the third part; played a part in
-the burlesque opera; danced with two others in the finale, and gave
-his bone solo, which was a wonderful performance; with them he gave
-imitations of the drums, the march, the reveille, etc., concluding with
-imitations of two horses running a race. It must be understood that all
-these performances were given in an artistic manner; and this was about
-sixty-five years ago.
-
-Probably Swayne Buckley’s chief fame rests on the act he did in later
-years; it was called “Musical Moments;” in it he performed on twelve
-different instruments, playing several at one time.
-
-July 8, 1867, he reorganized in Boston the Buckley Serenaders with
-himself as the one remaining member of the famous family in its company.
-
-In 1870 Mr. Buckley played an engagement with the San Francisco
-Minstrels in New York City; and on September 3, 1872, with Sam Sharpley
-he organized a company and gave minstrelsy on new lines, eliminating
-the time-honored first part.
-
-The two following seasons saw Buckley’s Serenaders on the road, and on
-September 13, 1875, he opened with the minstrels at Beethoven Hall,
-Boston; their stay was brief; a road tour was even less successful.
-
-In 1871 he played in a sensational melodrama called “On the Track;” in
-this he portrayed seven characters. Mr. Buckley’s last appearance was
-at the Walnut Street Theatre, Philadelphia, playing Zip, a negro, in
-“Devotion.”
-
-George Swayne Buckley was born in Bolton, England, August; 1829; he
-died in Quincy, Mass., June 25, 1879.
-
-
-FRED BUCKLEY came to America with his father and brothers in 1839;
-when, as previously stated, the family changed their names, Mr. Buckley
-was known as Master Ole Bull.
-
-He was leader of the orchestra in their organization for many years.
-
-Some of the famous ballads of early minstrelsy were composed by him,
-such as “We Are Growing Old Together,” “I’d Choose to Be a Daisy,”
-“Laughing Jennie,” “I See Her Still in My Dreams,” “I’m Turning Gray,
-Dear Kate,” and numerous others.
-
-Mr. Buckley married Fanny Brown, the actress, January 29, 1857.
-
-Fred Buckley was born in Bolton, England, October 12, 1833; he died in
-Boston, Mass., September 12, 1864.
-
-
-CHRISTY’S MINSTRELS
-
-were originated and first organized by Edwin P. Christy, and after
-that gentleman retired from the profession, a few years later, part
-of his old company organized and went to Europe, giving their first
-performance there August 3, 1857; they were called the “Christy”
-Minstrels. From this company several others sprung, and for a
-great many years all minstrel organizations in England were called
-“Christy’s.”
-
-E. P. Christy had a “card” on his program for many years, stating that
-his was the first minstrel company organized, the date given as 1842.
-In support of this at one time gave a statement of receipts covering a
-period of six months in 1842, and up to January 1, 1848.
-
-It is a noteworthy fact that Mr. Christy’s “card” did not appear until
-after Wood’s, likewise Campbell’s--two permanent minstrel organizations
-like his own in New York City, had prospered and made their presence
-felt.
-
-As has been stated elsewhere, black-face performers there were a-plenty
-long before the original four gave their first joint performance; they
-played chiefly in circuses and dance houses, and it was in one of the
-latter that Mrs. Harrington, mother of George Christy, and subsequent
-wife of E. P. Christy, kept, where these performances were given, and
-were very common occurrences at that time, and this was the only basis
-that Mr. Christy had of ante-dating the original company. There is no
-doubt that after the intelligence reached Buffalo of the success of
-Pelham, Whitlock, Emmett and Brower, that Mr. Christy, like scores of
-others, formed a company and called them Christy’s Minstrels; the date
-of this interesting event has never been made public, if indeed it was
-ever recorded. The first record of the company that the author has been
-able to find was in Albany, N. Y., May, 1844. On Sunday, August 17,
-1845, R. M. Hooley is said to have led the orchestra for them at the
-Assembly Room in Buffalo, N. Y.
-
-Their first metropolitan appearance was at Palmo’s Opera House, April
-27, 1846; they subsequently played at the Society Library Rooms and
-later at the Alhambra, all in the same city.
-
-But it was at Mechanics Hall, 472 Broadway, New York, that the name
-of Christy’s Minstrels became famous; they opened there on February
-15, 1847, and remained until July 15, 1854. On September 20, 1854, the
-company sailed for California; they played a few weeks at Pratt’s Hall
-in San Francisco, but were not overly successful.
-
-Such is the story of E. P. Christy’s Minstrels; the original company
-consisted of E. P. Christy, George Christy, Tom Vaughn and Lansing
-Durand; the careers of most of these performers, also their portraits,
-will be found elsewhere.
-
-It was the withdrawal of George Christy from E. P. Christy’s Company
-that caused their dissolution.
-
-
-EDWIN P. CHRISTY was best known as a ballad singer, although he played
-the banjo acceptably and played parts in his entertainments; he made a
-specialty of singing Stephen C. Foster’s songs.
-
-He returned from California early in 1855, and never appeared again
-professionally; nor did he ever play in England, although his name is a
-household word there yet even to this day.
-
-Edwin P. Christy was born in Philadelphia, November 28, 1815; he died
-(suicide) in New York City, May 21, 1862.
-
-
-GEORGE N. CHRISTY (Harrington), is conceded to have been one of the
-greatest performers that ever graced the minstrel stage; he was
-versatile by all the term applies; had he deemed to use his talents
-otherwise, his name might have been enrolled as one of America’s great
-actors.
-
-His career began at Buffalo, N. Y., in 1839; although he had not yet
-entered his teens, he was rated a fine jig dancer.
-
-He was associated with E. P. Christy a few years before the latter
-organized his minstrel company.
-
-George Christy was with Christy’s Minstrels in New York from February
-15, 1847, until October 29, 1853, during which period he played every
-conceivable part; male and female equally well; he was a great endman
-and as a bone player ranked with the best.
-
-Owing to a misunderstanding, he left E. P. Christy on October 29, 1853,
-and two days later he joined forces with Henry Wood at 444 Broadway,
-where as Wood and Christy’s Minstrels they held forth many years.
-
-During the 50’s Wood and Christy took the house vacated by E. P.
-Christy, put a show in there and ran both establishments for several
-months; Billy Birch and Christy played on the ends in their respective
-houses, after which each would go to the other theatre and contribute
-to the rest of the entertainment.
-
-December 2, 1854, “444” was destroyed by fire, and the company after a
-brief tour, resumed at “472.” “444” was rebuilt and reopened October 1,
-1855.
-
-Subsequently the company opened at Wood’s Marble Palace, 561-563
-Broadway, which was especially built for them, October 31, 1857; the
-other houses were then closed.
-
-Christy withdrew from Wood on May 1, 1858, and went to California,
-opening at San Francisco under the management of Tom Maguire, June
-7; the company was known as Christy’s Minstrels; they remained in
-California several months; subsequently Christy and R. M. Hooley formed
-a partnership and returned to New York, opening at 444 Broadway, May
-23, 1859. Christy had previously signed an agreement with Henry Wood
-not to appear within 100 miles of New York for a period of eighteen
-months, commencing May 1, 1858.
-
-When George Christy attempted to perform, he was enjoined from doing so
-by Wood; Christy then took the road until the time limit had expired,
-opening at Niblo’s Saloon, November 7, 1859; he played here about one
-year, and subsequently moved opposite to 585 Broadway.
-
-In 1864 he was with J. W. Raynor’s Company; and on September 4, 1865,
-he began an engagement with Hooley in Brooklyn; a year later he opened
-with Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels at 720 Broadway; this was the initial
-performance of the latter company in the metropolis.
-
-January 16, 1867, with G. W. H. Griffin, he organized Griffin and
-Christy’s Minstrels, opening at the Fifth Avenue Theatre (late Madison
-Square Theatre); they closed June 27, went on tour and reappeared in
-New York, July 29, at Union Hall, Fifth Avenue and Twenty-third Street;
-they closed on September 23 and went traveling.
-
-His last appearance was with Hooley’s Minstrels, May 2, 1868, in
-Brooklyn, N. Y.
-
-George Christy was born in Palmyra, N. Y., November 6, 1827; he died in
-New York City, May 12, 1868.
-
-[Illustration: THE VIRGINIA SERENADERS, 1843.
-
-Reading from left to right, in later years the above performers were
-familiarly known as Jim Sanford, “Ole Bull” Myers, Jim Carter, Bob
-Edwards and “Cool” White.]
-
-[Illustration:
-
- BILLY LESTER
-
- PAUL ALLEN
-
-LESTER AND ALLEN--They came later.]
-
-
-WILLIAM A. CHRISTY, the younger son of E. P. Christy, was a comedian,
-and a fair end man.
-
-His greatest proficiency was in the delineation of the female character.
-
-Late in 1860 “Christy’s” Minstrels, under his management, toured for a
-brief season; they closed, and on July 4, 1861, they reorganized and
-opened at the Athenaeum, Brooklyn, N. Y.
-
-William A. Christy died in New York City, December 8, 1862, aged 22
-years.
-
-
-E. BYRON CHRISTY was a son of E. P. Christy; he was a comedian, and
-best known for his stump speeches. He played with Sanford’s Minstrels
-in Philadelphia in 1859, and with George Christy’s Minstrels same
-year, after the latter’s return from California. In 1865 “Christy’s”
-Minstrels made a tour under his management.
-
-He died in New York City, April 6, 1866, aged 28 years.
-
-
-JOE SWEENEY (Joel Walker Sweeney)
-
-was the “father of the banjo” and one of the earliest black-face
-performers.
-
-Mr. Sweeney and two brothers traveled in a wagon through the South
-in the early 30’s, and certainly as early as 1838 when he was with a
-circus that played in Lynchburg, Va.
-
-He played many subsequent engagements with circuses, notably with the
-John Robinson Show.
-
-About 1843 he went to England, where he traveled with Cook’s Circus.
-
-April 19, 1844, with Brower, Pelham and Emmett, he formed again the
-Virginia Minstrels; they played in Dublin two weeks, and several
-other cities, after which the quartette broke up; Pelham and Sweeney
-then performed in the principal cities of the United Kingdom, Sweeney
-returning to the United States about 1845.
-
-He subsequently organized Joe Sweeney’s Opera Troupe and traveled
-chiefly through the South at intermittent periods up to within about a
-year or two of his death.
-
-In April, 1852, he played an engagement with Charley White’s Minstrels
-in New York. Up to the time of Joe Sweeney, the banjo, so-called, was
-made from a gourd and had four strings only; he took an old cheese box,
-cut it in half, covered it with a skin and added another string; the
-fine instruments we see to-day are the evolution of the crude affair
-just described; this was about 1830.
-
-Joe Sweeney was born at Appomattox, Va., 1813; where he died October
-27, 1860.
-
-
-GEO. HOLLAND, father of the late Geo. Holland, and of E. M. and Jos.
-Holland, and who was known as one of the great comedians of the old
-stock days, made his appearance with Wood and Christy’s Minstrels in
-New York City, December 21, 1857, playing female parts in black-face,
-and remained with the company six months.
-
-The famous “little church around the corner” gained its name and fame
-through the death of this great old actor.
-
-George Holland was born near London, England, December 6, 1791; he died
-in New York City, December 20, 1870.
-
-
-EDWIN FORREST, America’s first great actor, at the Globe Theatre,
-Cincinnati, Ohio, July 17, 1823, played Cuff, a Kentucky negro, in the
-“Tailor in Distress.”
-
-In this play Mr. Forrest imitated the black man in dress, accent, gait,
-dialect and manner; and was said to be the first actor to do so.
-
-Edwin Forrest was born in Philadelphia, March 9, 1806; he died there
-December 12, 1872.
-
-
-“OLE BULL” MYERS (J. Richard Myers) was one of the earliest and best
-violinists in minstrelsy.
-
-He entered the profession in 1835, and was with numerous black-face
-companies, notably the Virginia Serenaders in 1843; this organization,
-a photograph of which will be found elsewhere, played an engagement at
-the Chatham Theatre, New York, January 24, 1844.
-
-“Ole Bull” Myers was born in Baltimore, Md., May 9, 1909; he died in
-Philadelphia, September 10, 1874.
-
-
-P. T. BARNUM, the great circus man, in the fall of 1836 while traveling
-with a small show of his own, had the misfortune to lose the services
-of Jim Sandford, one of his principal “cards,” who was doing “nigger”
-business; but rather than disappoint his audience, Barnum “blacked up”
-and sang “Such a Gittin Up Stairs,” and other songs that were popular
-that day.
-
-P. T. Barnum was born in Bethel, Conn., July 5, 1810; he died at
-Bridgeport, Conn., April 7, 1891.
-
-
-TOM CHRISTIAN, one of the first, also one of the best to do Tyrolean
-warbling in minstrelsy, joined E. P. Christy’s Minstrels in New York in
-1847, and continued as a member of that organization until it disbanded
-in 1854; subsequently he joined Sanford’s Minstrels in Philadelphia,
-and Raynor’s “Christy” which toured the country until they sailed for
-England in June, 1857, when Christian went with them; he remained with
-the organization which afterwards was known as Moore, Crocker and
-Ritter’s Minstrels, until his death.
-
-Tom Christian died in London, England, January 29, 1867; aged 59 years.
-
-
-DR. G. R. SPALDING, whose “Floating Palace” and steamers “Banjo” and
-“Gazelle” and “James Raymond” gave minstrel performances on the rivers
-for many years, commencing about 1855, was a native of Coeymans, N. Y.;
-he died in New Orleans, La., April 6, 1886, aged 68 years.
-
-
-SAM JOHNSON (Isaac Ray) was one of the earliest minstrel performers;
-as early as the Summer of 1844 he appeared in Hoboken, N. J., at Otto
-Cottage as one of the Operatic Brothers and Sisters.
-
-He died at River View, Ky., about November 1, 1876, aged 62 years.
-
-
-JIM SANDFORD (Blandford) was one of the earliest jig dancers of
-minstrelsy. He appeared with small companies as early as 1843; and for
-several years traveled with the great John Diamond. He was noted for
-his fastidiousness in dress.
-
-He was born in Baltimore, Md.; he died in Philadelphia, September 2,
-1855; aged 41 years.
-
-
-JOHN WASHINGTON SMITH was one of the earliest and best negro
-delineators ante-dating minstrelsy proper, although he was later
-associated with several prominent organizations.
-
-His earliest recorded appearance was with the Lion Circus in
-Cincinnati, December, 1838.
-
-The following year he played in New York, and a year later went to
-Europe, where he performed with “Pickaninny” Coleman. Returning to
-America, he played at the Bowery Amphitheatre, April 25, 1842.
-
-In 1849 he wrote and first sung the song that was afterwards in the
-repertoire of many famous minstrels--“Old Bob Ridley;” this occurred in
-New Orleans, La.
-
-In the Fall of 1855 he was with the original San Francisco Minstrels in
-the California metropolis. He subsequently went to Australia and other
-foreign countries, where for many years he piloted various minstrel
-organizations.
-
-John Washington Smith was born in the United States about 1815; he died
-in S. Yarra, Australia, August 31, 1877.
-
-
-FRANCIS GERMON was one of the early comedians and tambourinists in
-minstrelsy.
-
-December 25, 1839, at Taunton, Mass., in a concert there he was singing
-the old song of “Sittin’ on a Rail.”
-
-About 1844 he joined the Ethiopian Serenaders, and continued as a
-member of that party several years.
-
-September 15, 1845, Mr. Germon and the company, as shown on another
-page, began an engagement at Palmo’s Opera House, New York.
-
-Francis Germon died in Philadelphia, it is said, in the 50’s.
-
-
-NED HARPER was one of the early black-face performers who ante-dated
-minstrelsy proper.
-
-He was the author of “Jim Along Josey,” and the first to sing it in his
-drama, the “Free Nigger of New York,” about 1838.
-
-February 22, 1837, at the Lion Theatre, Boston, he played Gumbo Cuff in
-“O’ Hush.”
-
-He died in England about fifty years ago.
-
-
-“BILL” CEDA (Wm. Price), up to the time of his death was the oldest
-living minstrel in England, where he had been since 1848; he was a
-comedian and general performer, and made his first appearance at the
-Bowery Theatre, New York, in 1840; in June, 1848, he was with the
-Virginia Harmonists.
-
-Bill Ceda was born in the United States; he died in Liverpool, England,
-March 9, 1873.
-
-
-DICK SWEENEY, a brother of the famous Joe Sweeney, and who traveled
-with him in the 30’s and 40’s, giving concerts in black-face, died in
-Washington, D. C., in 1860, it is said. He was born in Virginia about
-1815.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- FRANK WARD
- (of the Original Clipper Quartette)
-
- HARRY A. ELLIS
- (of the Original “The Quartette”)
-
- JOHNNY THOMPSON
-
- FRANK KERNS
-
- (Thompson & Kerns were the original double song and dance team; 1862.)
-
- CHARLEY GARDNER
- (Original “Hop Light Loo”)
-
- FRANK E. McNISH
- (Original “Silence and Fun”)
-
-“SOME ORIGINALS.”]
-
-
-NELSON KNEASS’ fame has been handed down to posterity for his
-association with the song of Ben Bolt, which was composed by Thomas
-Dunn English; an old German tune was supplied by Mr. Kneass, and
-through it the verses have become immortalized.
-
-Mr. Kneass followed the profession of negro minstrelsy for many years.
-
-February 1, 1841, he was leader of the “orchestra” at the opening
-of the Museum, Albany, N. Y. In 1846 he was a member of the Sable
-Harmonists; in 1853 with Sanford’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, and on
-June 2, 1854, Mr. Kneass and his daughter, Annie, who later married
-J. N. Rentfrow, of Rentfrow’s Jolly Pathfinders, were with Wood and
-Christy’s Minstrels in New York, the former as Aunt Chloe, and the
-latter as Eva in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.”
-
-In 1859 he was with a minstrel company in Chicago, and late that same
-year was with Dan Scott’s Dramatic Company.
-
-Nelson Kneass was born in Philadelphia; he died in Chillicothe, Ohio,
-September 10, 1869.
-
-
-G. WARREN WHITE was a famous vocalist in the early days of minstrelsy.
-He began as a boy singer, and later was with Dumbleton’s Serenaders;
-also with Ordway’s Aeolians in Boston.
-
-His later years were spent with the Campbell-Castle Opera Company, and
-the Kellogg Opera Company.
-
-Mr. White was born in Boston, Mass., in 1816; he died in Somerville,
-Mass., in March, 1886.
-
-
-DAN GARDNER was equally at home as a clown in a circus, or as a
-minstrel.
-
-At the age of 13, on the 13th of the month, he ran away from home, and
-after walking thirteen miles, joined a canal boat show.
-
-He soon after returned to his heath, and subsequently held the position
-of assistant property man at Mt. Pitt Circus in New York, on the site
-that is now occupied by the Hoe Printing Press Company. Mr. Gardner
-began his clown business there.
-
-As early as 1835 he did a wench character; it is considerably more
-than probable that he was the first performer to do a female part in
-black-face. And he was absolutely the first to do Lucy Long, a famous
-characterization in early minstrelsy.
-
-In every decade commencing in the 30’s, Mr. Gardner was prominently
-identified with minstrelsy. He was with Sam Sanford’s Minstrels as
-early as 1844, and when the latter took the present Eleventh Street
-Opera House in Philadelphia, he played numerous engagements there in
-the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.
-
-In 1845 he was one of the famous Operatic Brothers and Sisters in New
-York City.
-
-Mr. Gardner was the father of W. H. Gardner, prominent in circus
-business; also Lida Gardner, who was the original Mabel Santley of the
-Rentz-Santley Burlesquers.
-
-Dan Gardner was born in New York City, October 28, 1816; he died in
-Atlantic City, N. J., October 7, 1880.
-
-
-M. C. CAMPBELL (Cainan), one of the great ballad singers in the early
-days of minstrelsy, first appeared prominently at Wood’s Minstrels
-in New York in 1851; he remained successively a member of Wood and
-Christy’s; Wood’s; and George Christy’s Minstrels, covering a period of
-about nine years.
-
-In February, 1861, he organized a company with James Budworth.
-
-On November 10, 1862, he gave the first performance of Campbell’s
-Minstrels at what is now known as the Fourteenth Street Theatre, New
-York; June 27, 1864, his company opened at what is now known as the
-People’s Theatre, New York; January 16, 1865, R. M. Hooley became
-associated in the management, and in the Spring of the same year he
-disposed of his interest to Hooley.
-
-Mr. Campbell had various minstrel companies until about 1870, when he
-retired; subsequently he was identified with the _Evening News_, New
-York City.
-
-M. C. Campbell was born in London, England, 1817; he died in New York,
-January 6, 1883.
-
-
-EDWIN DEAVES was associated with some of the very earliest minstrel
-companies in existence in his native and other Eastern cities in the
-middle 40’s.
-
-About 1850 he went to California, where he remained many years. When he
-first played in the great coast metropolis, the “theatre” was a tent.
-
-Edwin Deaves had a pleasing personality and a commanding presence,
-which eminently fitted him for the position of “middle-man” in the
-various companies in which he was associated. Mr. Deaves was among the
-first to sing the lamented Foster’s ballads, such as “Old Dog Tray,”
-“Nellie Gray” and others.
-
-When George Christy and his company arrived in San Francisco in the
-Summer of 1858, Mr. Deaves at once became a member. Likewise was
-he associated there with Birch, Wambold, Bernard, Backus and many
-other burnt cork luminaries many years before these artists made a
-metropolitan reputation.
-
-Edwin Deaves was born in Philadelphia, in 1817; he died in New York
-City, July 19, 1890.
-
-
-EPH. HORN (Evan Evans Horn) was a name to conjure with for many years.
-
-His professional career began more than seventy years ago. He first
-appeared in New York City about 1847 as a member of the Ethiopian
-Serenaders.
-
-In conjunction with Charley White, they formed Horn and White’s
-Minstrels, opening in New York, April 2, 1851. Subsequently he was
-identified with practically all the famous permanent minstrel companies
-in the metropolis, including Wood’s, Campbell’s, Buckley’s, Bryant’s,
-and E. P. Christy’s; with the latter he went to San Francisco, Cal.,
-in the Fall of 1854, where he remained eighteen months. Subsequently
-he appeared as clown in a circus, in black face. In 1858 he played an
-engagement with Ordway’s Aeolians in Boston. Mr. Horn was a fine end
-man in his day, and all-round general comedian.
-
-In the Summer of 1865 he went to London, where he played a brief
-engagement.
-
-Eph. Horn was born in Philadelphia, Pa., 1818; he died in New York,
-January 1, 1877.
-
-
-SAM GARDNER (Sylvester Gardner) was a prominent minstrel interlocutor
-for forty years; he was likewise a splendid bass singer, and had been
-identified with many prominent organizations, notably Wm. Henry Rice’s
-Minstrels in Cincinnati, with whom he opened September 2, 1872. He had
-been a resident of Omaha, Neb., where he died March 10, 1888, for many
-years. He was born in New York City about 1818.
-
-
-ZENAS RUMSEY was one of the early minstrel performers of the ’40’s.
-He possessed a good tenor voice, and from 1847 to 1850 he sang at the
-Bowery Theatre.
-
-That year he married Mary Van Keuren, and retired from the profession.
-
-He was born in Shawangunk. N. Y.; he died in Ellenville, N. Y.,
-December 10, 1891, aged 73 years.
-
-
-MARSHALL S. PIKE was one of the pioneers of minstrelsy, as well as one
-of the first female impersonators. In 1843 in conjunction with the
-Powers Brothers and L. V. H. Crosby, they formed a little company, and
-appearing with whitened faces and flaxen wigs, styled themselves the
-Albino Family subsequently they changed to blackened features, and were
-known as the Harmoneon Family, afterwards the Harmoneons. It was this
-company that sang for President Polk in the White House in 1847.
-
-Mr. Pike married in 1849, and in that same year joined Ordway’s
-Aeolians in Boston, and continued with them for several seasons,
-leaving in 1857 and organizing “Pike’s Harmoneons.”
-
-Subsequently he was identified with various dramatic companies, Mr.
-Pike was the author of more than 100 songs, the most popular of which
-was “Home Again,” written in 1849.
-
-Marshall S. Pike was born in Westboro, Mass., May 20, 1818; he died in
-Upton, Mass., February 13, 1901.
-
-
-NAPOLEON W. GOULD, famous as a vocalist and guitarist in many minstrel
-companies, came to the United States in 1848.
-
-He joined E. P. Christy’s Company in New York about 1850, remaining
-about four years.
-
-In 1859 he became a member of Bryant’s Minstrels, same city, and
-continued there for several seasons. His last professional appearance
-was with George Christy’s Minstrels in New York about fifteen years
-previous to his death.
-
-Napoleon W. Gould was born in London, England, June 7, 1819; he died in
-New York, May 23, 1881.
-
-
-JOHN H. COLLINS was a well-known vocalist with various minstrel
-companies.
-
-He was the husband of Julia Gould, the prima donna of Buckley’s
-Minstrels.
-
-In the Spring of 1860 he was with Wood’s Minstrels, and in the Fall of
-that year he joined Rumsey and Newcomb’s Company, going to Cuba with
-them, where he died in December, 1860.
-
-
-“PICKANINNY” (Thomas E.) COLEMAN was one of the early black-face
-performers ante-dating minstrelsy proper.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- JOHN HART
- EMIL AMES
- WILLIS P. SWEATNAM
-
- BILLY EMERSON
- (1869)
-
- DAN. WALDRON
- (Of Original Big 4)
-
- GEO. M. DE VERE--MATT McELROY
- 1878.]
-
-He played many engagements in New York in the early 40’s, with John W.
-Smith, with whom he made a trip to England in 1840.
-
-He died in Newark, N. J., July 5, 1859.
-
-
-JOHN LANDIS was one of the old-time minstrels and general black-face
-performers; he was with Sam Sanford’s Minstrels in 1859, and at one
-time was prominently identified with his own company. He died in
-Philadelphia, September 19, 1863.
-
-
-S. E. CLARK was one of the early interlocutors, or “middle-men” of
-minstrelsy; he was rated an excellent bass vocalist, and was with the
-Bryant’s in New York in 1857.
-
-He died in New Haven, Conn., February 3, 1860.
-
-
-JULIUS A. VON BONHORST was one of the early banjo players of
-minstrelsy, and practically his entire career was spent with Sanford’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-He married a Miss Luther about 1854, and three years later retired from
-the profession.
-
-He died at Reading, Pa., February 16, 1869, aged 40 years.
-
-
-JIM CARTER, one of the earliest of black-face performers, and whose
-portrait may be seen on another page, was also one of the original
-Campbell’s Minstrels, organized June, 1847.
-
-He died many years ago.
-
-
-PHILIP RICE was one of the pioneer banjo players of minstrelsy.
-
-In the very early days he constructed an instrument by tacking a skin
-over a peck measure that had been sawed in half; this attracted wide
-attention.
-
-June 18, 1856, he was with Dave Reed’s Minstrels on board the steamer
-“James Raymond,” which traveled on the Mississippi River.
-
-He died at Grand Lake, Ark., December 4, 1857.
-
-
-TOM RALEIGH (T. R. Mahan), one of the musicians of the real early
-days of minstrelsy, was accidentally shot and killed by Frank Hussey,
-comedian, in San Francisco, December 5, 1859.
-
-
-GEORGE LEA, one of the pioneers of the variety theatre business in New
-York City, was the proprietor of Lea’s Minstrels at 185 Chatham Street,
-in the Fall of 1853.
-
-He died at Port Jervis, N. Y., August 20, 1902.
-
-
-“PICAYUNE” BUTLER (John Butler), one of the best of the early
-banjoists, and who made famous the song “Picayune Butler’s Comin’ to
-Town,” had considerable vogue in the 50’s.
-
-He died in New York City, November 18, 1864.
-
-
-GEORGE A. HARRINGTON was one of the members of the Ethiopian
-Serenaders who appeared in New York, September 15, 1845. The following
-year they appeared in London, England.
-
-He was a good bass singer and banjoist, and was the first to sing “Lucy
-Neal.”
-
-He died in Philadelphia, January, 1859.
-
-
-WILLIAM PARROW, who was with Joe. Sweeney’s Minstrels in the 40’s, and
-was said to be the original Old Bob Ridley, was murdered at Lebanon,
-Tenn.; he died November 29, 1870.
-
- * * * * *
-
-WM. HENRY RICE, long famous for his burlesque female impersonations,
-sat on the end with his own minstrel company in Cincinnati, September,
-1872.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-“PONY” MOORE (George Washington Moore). This unique character in
-minstrelsy, up to the time of his death, enjoyed the double distinction
-of being the oldest living minstrel, as well as having attained greater
-longevity than any other known black-face performer.
-
-There have been many versions of the veteran’s interesting career. Mr.
-Moore in a letter to the author, dated December 3, 1908, says his first
-appearance was in New York with Welch and Delevan at the old Broadway
-Circus in negro opera, playing in black-face, in 1844.
-
-In a series of articles commencing August 1, 1909, in Lloyd’s _Weekly
-News_ (London, England), Mr. Moore stated that he must have been about
-twenty-one when he first blacked his face, and speaks of Frank Brower,
-who was in the same company with him as having got the idea of making
-the first set of “bones” then known.
-
-This would make the date 1841, and as the incident concerning Brower
-actually did occur while with Roger’s Circus, during the week of July
-4, that year, the date of his first appearance in black-face may be
-safely stated to have been in 1841. Previous to this, however, he had
-been associated in many capacities with various circuses, but chiefly
-as a driver; it had been said that he handled as many as forty horses
-at one time, and in that way received the sobriquet of “Pony,” which
-clung to him all his life.
-
-It was in 1844 that his first prominent engagement as a black-face
-performer, however, occurred.
-
-Mr. Moore further stated that “he joined Haworth and Horton’s Opera
-Troupe, September 13, 1854, and the year following organized Hunter,
-Hedden and Moore’s Troupe.”
-
-It is a fact that J. Hunter and William Hedden, the one a comedian
-and the other a fine dancer, were with Raynor’s “Christy” Minstrels
-as late as May 1, 1856, as likewise was “Pony” Moore. The Raynor
-Company returned to New York and opened there on February 2, 1857,
-playing about a month, after which they took a tour previous to their
-departure for England; Mr. Moore left the company at the conclusion of
-the New York engagement, and at once joined Matt. Peel’s Minstrels;
-he continued with this company until in the Summer of 1858, they
-played an engagement in New York. A short time later Matt. Peel left
-the organization which subsequently was known as Sniffen’s Campbell’s
-Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Moore continued with this troupe until February 12, 1859, on which
-date he left to rejoin Matt. Peel’s company, continuing with the latter
-until his (Peel’s) death, May 4, 1859; after which he became a member
-of Burtis’ Varieties in Brooklyn, N. Y.
-
-One month later Earl Pierce died in London, England. Pierce had been a
-great favorite in the British Metropolis, and J. W. Raynor sent for W.
-W. Newcomb, the well-known comedian, to take the place of the deceased.
-
-Evidently Mr. Newcomb did not relish the idea of a sea trip, and “Pony”
-Moore, on his own initiative, went to London and presented himself to
-his former manager. It is an odd fact that on this occasion Mr. Moore
-had to sign an agreement “not to be too funny.”
-
-It had been remarked that during the period of Pierce’s death and the
-subsequent occupation of his chair by Moore, that it remained vacant.
-This is inaccurate. Pending the advent of “Pony” Moore, it was occupied
-by W. P. Collins, a member of the company. Mr. Moore continued with the
-company for one year, at the expiration of which, Mr. Raynor retired to
-private life. Several companies sprang from the parent organization,
-one of which, Wilsom and Montague’s “Christy’s,” Mr. Moore joined.
-
-It is pertinent at this juncture to remark that from this period, all
-minstrel organizations were known as “Christy’s” in England.
-
-Mr. Moore continued with Wilsom and Montague for about four years, and
-immediately after, in conjunction with Johnny Ritter, J. P. Crocker
-and Henry Hamilton, organized a company bearing their names; with the
-exception of the latter, all were performers. They gave their first
-performance at Chester, England, November 14, 1864.
-
-After playing through the provinces for several months, they opened in
-London, at St. James Hall, September 18, 1865. Subsequently through
-purchase and death’s intervention, Mr. Moore was sole owner of the
-company. Later, Fred. Burgess was taken in partnership, and as Moore
-and Burgess’ Minstrels flourished several years. Mr. Moore’s last
-appearance with his own company was in January, 1894.
-
-April 9, 1904, saw the last of permanent minstrelsy in London. It
-seemed that a minstrel show at St. James Hall without “Pony” Moore was
-like “Hamlet” without Hamlet.
-
-Mr. Moore’s last appearance was made in London at the Pavilion for the
-benefit of Mr. Frank Glenister.
-
-Mr. Moore was twice married; first about 1860, and subsequently in
-1884. Three daughters were the result of the first union. They married
-Fred. Vokes, of the famous theatrical family of that name; Charles
-Mitchell, the former champion pugilist, and Eugene Stratton, the
-premier black-face vaudeville artist in England. With the exception of
-the latter, all were English born.
-
-“Pony” Moore was born in New York City, February 22, 1820; he died in
-London, England, October 1, 1909.
-
-
-FRANK LYNCH was one of the great dancers of early minstrelsy. He
-traveled with Barnum in the 40’s as “John Diamond,” after the great
-showman had had difficulties with the original Diamond. Lynch was last
-heard of in St. Louis, Mo., in 1859.
-
-
-MORRIS ABRAMS is one of the oldest living black-face performers. He did
-nigger business on the style of “Daddy” Rice in England, after Rice’s
-phenomenal success there in the 30’s.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- JOE--FOX & WARD--WM. H.
- (The oldest team of theatrical partners in existence)
-
- NED--MONROE & MACK--KELLER
-
- DICK--QUILTER & GOLDRICH--PETE
-
- JAS.--PELL & LEWIS--TOM
- (Portraits reserved)]
-
- Mr. Abrams is said to be living in retirement in Brighton, England.
-
-
-LANSING DURAND, one of the four original performers of E. P. Christy’s
-Minstrels, was a jig dancer of exceptional merit. In later years he was
-of the team of Painter and Durand, gymnasts. He was living as late as
-1872.
-
-
-JOHN ARNOLD CAVE is probably the oldest living black-face performer.
-
-He made a reputation in England more than sixty years ago doing nigger
-acts with the late E. W. Mackney.
-
-Mr. Cave is said to be at present a guest of the Charter House, where
-he obtained through the late King of England. He (Cave) was formerly
-proprietor of the Old Vic Theatre, London, England.
-
-
-GEORGE RAYNOR was a well-known minstrel vocalist, and a brother of J.
-W. Raynor, the famous manager. He was with Wood’s Minstrels in 1860,
-also other prominent organizations.
-
-He died in Brooklyn, N. Y., April 2, 1864, aged 43 years.
-
-
-SAM SANFORD, whose correct name is said to have been Lindsay, was one
-of the pioneer minstrel managers and performers.
-
-His first appearance was at the age of nine years. He subsequently
-joined a circus, and on February 16, 1843, for the first time assumed
-managerial duties. About 1846 he joined Buckley’s Company, and went to
-England with them, returning late in 1848.
-
-Mr. Sanford left the Buckleys about two years later.
-
-He built the first theatre ever constructed especially for a minstrel
-company, at Twelfth and Chestnut Streets, Philadelphia, Pa., which he
-opened August 1, 1853; it was destroyed December 9, following. April
-23, 1855, Sanford’s Minstrels opened at the Eleventh Street Opera
-House, that city; he continued until the Spring of 1862.
-
-Subsequently Mr. Sanford had other theatres in the Quaker City, and one
-in Harrisburg, Pa., as well as many traveling minstrel organizations.
-
-About 1875 he essayed the role of Uncle Tom, and played that character
-at intervals for several years. In his day Mr. Sanford was rated as one
-of the best comedians of his time. Sam Sanford was born in New York
-City January 1, 1821; he died in Brooklyn, N. Y., December 31, 1905.
-
-
-COOL WHITE (John Hodges) was one of the pioneers of minstrelsy; he
-entered it at its inception, and for many years was one of the most
-brilliant luminaries. Mr. White was a grand interlocutor, and an actor
-of no ordinary merit.
-
-As early as 1838 he appeared at the Walnut Street Theatre in his native
-city, singing songs in black-face between the acts. He portrayed the
-dandy negro, and as such was very successful.
-
-In 1843 he organized the Virginia Serenaders. Later he organized the
-Sable Melodists, and subsequently Sliter’s Empire Minstrels, and was
-with them four years. He then appeared as a Shakespearian clown with
-Spalding and Rogers Circus, and after engagements with some other
-minstrel companies, he joined Sam Sanford’s Minstrels in Philadelphia
-about 1855, and continued there about four years.
-
-He then went to New York, and later organized Cool White’s Broadway
-Minstrels, and on September 12, 1870, in Brooklyn, N. Y., with Archie
-Hughes and Fayette Welch, started a permanent minstrel company in that
-city.
-
-In the Fall of 1879 he played Uncle Tom. For several years prior to his
-death he had been connected with Hooley’s Theatre in Chicago.
-
-Cool White was born in Philadelphia July 28, 1821; he died in Chicago,
-April 23, 1891.
-
-
-CHARLES T. WHITE was one of the greatest men that minstrelsy produced.
-His career began with minstrelsy in 1843, at which time he appeared
-with various small companies.
-
-The following year he organized the Kitchen Minstrels, and was with
-many companies until November 24, 1846, when he opened the Melodeon at
-53 Bowery, New York. He was twice burnt out, but rebuilt each time.
-
-The place finally closed April 22, 1854, and on August 7 following he
-opened a place at 49 Bowery; each establishment was run as a minstrel
-show; the admission was 6¼ and 12½ cents. Mr. White was again burnt
-out, and later opened places at 585 and 598 Broadway. He was with Mrs.
-Matt. Peel’s Minstrels about 1861.
-
-He was the author of innumerable minstrel sketches, some of which are
-yet in use. For several seasons he had traveled with the “White Slave,”
-and at the time of his death was a member of Edward Harrigan’s Company,
-playing Mrs. Jackson in “Reilly and the 400,” a black-face part.
-
-Mr. White was twice married.
-
-Charles T. White was born in New York June 4, 1821; he died there
-January 4, 1891.
-
-
-BOB SHEPPARD. This famous old-time performer began his career as a jig
-dancer in his native city in 1832; the “theatre” where he made his
-debut being no less a place than his father’s slaughter-house: the
-admission 6¼ cents, with the privilege of looking at the cattle; the
-audience usually had a “bully” time.
-
-In 1856 he opened a concert hall in Philadelphia, where many artists of
-prominence in later years made their appearance.
-
-In Bob Sheppard’s day, performers had to be versatile; and as a dancer
-and tambourine player, he had no superior in his time; but in the
-delineation of Old Bob Ridley, he excelled.
-
-He was with some notable organizations, including Shorey’s Minstrels in
-1863.
-
-Bob Sheppard was born in Philadelphia, in 1821; he died there August
-15, 1898.
-
-
-ANDY LEAVITT made his first stage appearance April 8, 1837.
-
-In 1842 he leased Bleeker Hall in Boston and transformed it into
-Leavitt’s Opera House. As early as 1858 he traveled with Leavitt’s
-Ethiopian Troupe, and that same year he opened a small theatre at 22
-Beaver Street, Albany, N. Y.
-
-March 30, 1859, he leased the Gayety Theatre on Green Street, in the
-same city. In the early 70’s he went to the Howard Athenaeum in Boston,
-where for many years he remained. He was especially clever in the acts
-with Harry Bloodgood; the latter doing the comedy.
-
-Andy Leavitt was an unusually intelligent performer, and was the author
-of several negro farces that were widely used.
-
-He was likewise responsible for the song “Ham Fat,” that achieved great
-vogue several years ago.
-
-In 1882 and 1889 he played white-face parts with “Joshua Whitcomb”
-and “Two Sisters” respectively; his stage career ended about this
-time. About 1891 he secured a position as stage door man at the Hollis
-Theatre, Boston, which he retained five years.
-
-Andy Leavitt was born in Boston, Mass., in 1822; he died there February
-1, 1901.
-
-
-WILLIAM B. DONALDSON was the inventor of the jawbone used as a musical
-instrument by black-face performers several years before the first
-minstrel performance was given.
-
-He was associated with minstrel and circus organizations for forty
-years, and was the first black-face clown to appear in a ring.
-
-Like most performers of his day, he played the banjo; but Mr. Donaldson
-created a sensation by playing it with his left hand.
-
-His professional debut was made in Poughkeepsie, N. Y., in 1836, as
-“Young Jim Crow,” after the style of “Daddy” Rice. In June, 1847,
-he was one of the five original members of the _first_ Campbell’s
-Minstrels.
-
-About three years before his death he became proprietor of the Lockwood
-House in Poughkeepsie, N. Y.
-
-William B. Donaldson was born October 13, 1822; he died in
-Poughkeepsie, N. Y., April 16, 1873.
-
-
-BOB EDWARDS (Dean) was one of the earliest bone players, and in his
-youth was known as “Master” Edwards.
-
-In 1841-42 he traveled though Pennsylvania as a jig dancer. In 1843
-and 1844 he was a member of the famous Ethiopian Serenaders, a group
-picture of which will be found on another page.
-
-Subsequently he withdrew from that company, and joined Sanford’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia, where he remained for a long time.
-
-In 1862 he had the Gayety Music Hall in Harrisburg, Pa., and a few
-years before his death was proprietor of his own company.
-
-Bob Edwards was born in Philadelphia in 1822; he died in Buffalo, N.
-Y., July 24, 1872.
-
-
-GEORGE GUY was the founder of the famed Guy Bros. Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Guy, who was an excellent baritone vocalist, had the unique
-distinction of sitting in the first part with his six sons; an
-occurrence that had no parallel in minstrelsy.
-
-The original Guy family of entertainers consisted of father, mother,
-daughter and six sons.
-
-Mr. Guy’s principal engagements were with Christy’s, and Kelly and
-Leon’s Minstrels. About 1874 he organized the Guy Brothers Minstrels as
-a permanent institution, and as such it has continued ever since.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- SAM. DEVERE
-
- SAM. SANFORD
-
- BILLY CARTER
-
- SAM. SWAIN
-
- SAM. SHARPLEY
-
-BILLY CARTER SURROUNDED BY SOME CELEBRATED “SAMS.”]
-
-Mr. Guy married Amelia Evans in London, England, in 1851.
-
-George Guy, Sr., was born in London, England, January 20, 1822; he died
-in Springfield, Mass., February 23, 1895.
-
-
-R. M. HOOLEY was associated with all that was best in minstrelsy.
-
-He came to America in 1844, and on August 17, the following year, he
-played his first engagement in Buffalo, N. Y., as “leader” of E. P.
-Christy’s Minstrels; he remained with Christy for two years.
-
-About 1851 he organized his own company, and took same to Europe, where
-he played Paris, Boulogne, Brussels and other Continental cities.
-During the 50’s he was associated in the management of Maguire’s
-Minstrels in California, and in 1858 was proprietor with Maguire of
-George Christy’s Minstrels in San Francisco.
-
-Returning to New York in 1859, he soon separated from Christy, and
-on February 6, 1860, in co-partnership with Sher. Campbell and G. W.
-H. Griffin, organized Hooley and Campbell’s Minstrels; this company
-disbanded in July, 1861, and the following year Mr. Hooley opened his
-famous minstrel hall in Brooklyn, where he continued for several years.
-
-During the above period Hooley had a company in Philadelphia at the old
-Seventh Street Theatre, from September 7 to October 17, 1868.
-
-October 19, 1868, he opened another minstrel show in Brooklyn, at the
-Odeon, the present site of the Novelty Theatre.
-
-The home of the original Hooley Company was destroyed by fire May 12,
-1865, and that same month the energetic manager opened at 201 Bowery,
-New York, the present site of the People’s Theatre. January 2, 1871,
-Mr. Hooley opened Bryan Hall, the present Grand Opera House in Chicago,
-and remained several months.
-
-The big fire of October, 1871, having destroyed his theatre, Mr. Hooley
-thereupon built what is now known as Power’s Theatre, Chicago, which he
-opened with his company in 1872, and flourished about three years, when
-he returned to his old love in Brooklyn, and began an engagement in
-1875.
-
-In the Spring of 1876 in conjunction with Billy Rice, he formed Rice
-and Hooley’s Minstrels for a road tour; December, 1876, they opened
-at Hooley’s old Opera House in Brooklyn for a limited engagement. Mr.
-Hooley again went to Chicago, and on March 1, 1880, opened with a
-minstrel company at the Novelty Theatre.
-
-In September, 1882 he associated with Rice; and Billy Rice and Hooley’s
-Minstrels opened in Joliet, Ill., but disbanded after a few months.
-
-Mr. Hooley married Miss Rosina Cramer of New York, in San Francisco,
-about 1856, after a brief but romantic courtship.
-
-R. M. Hooley was born in Ballina, Ireland, April 13, 1822; he died in
-Chicago, Ill., September 8, 1893.
-
-
-WILLIAM A. PORTER, one of the earliest members of E. P. Christy’s
-Minstrels, made his first theatrical appearance as a supernumerary in
-the old Chatham Theatre, New York, in the fall of 1841.
-
-His debut as a black-face performer occurred in the Spring of 1844 with
-the Clark Brothers Panorama Show.
-
-Mr. Porter made his first appearance with E. P. Christy’s Minstrels at
-the Eagle Street Theatre, Buffalo, N. Y., April 5, 1845.
-
-February 15, 1847, he opened with the company at Mechanic’s Hall, New
-York, and remained there until 1853, after which, in the Fall of that
-year, he became a member of George Christy and Henry Wood’s Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Porter subsequently went to California and identified himself with
-Backus’ Minstrels there.
-
-Early in 1855 he rejoined E. P. Christy’s Company in San Francisco,
-acting as business manager.
-
-In August, same year, he set sail for Australia with Backus’ Minstrels;
-he remained in that country until 1859, during which period he engaged
-in mining and mercantile pursuits, as well as following his profession.
-
-Mr. Porter returned to New York about September, 1870, later making his
-home at Johnsonburg, N. Y., where he died January 18, 1906.
-
-William A. Porter was born in Hartford, Conn., May 4, 1822.
-
-
-J. W. RAYNOR (Rea) came to America at the age of ten years.
-
-His first professional appearance was as a vocalist in New York City
-about 1845. In June, 1847, Mr. Raynor was one of the original members
-that comprised the _first_ Campbell’s Minstrels.
-
-Not long after this he joined E. P. Christy’s Minstrels in New York
-City, and continued with them until the dissolution of the company in
-that city, July, 1854. Mr. Raynor then organized a “Christy Minstrels”
-and for three years traveled successfully in the United States and
-Canada. July 11, 1857, in partnership with Earl Pierce, he sailed with
-a company for England, where they opened in London, August 3, following.
-
-He met with immediate and lasting success, and exactly three years from
-the date he left America, Mr. Raynor announced his retirement, and
-returned to the United States, arriving August 15, 1860.
-
-Less than four years later the old fever came back to Mr. Raynor, and
-he organized another “Christy’s” Minstrels, and continued at its head
-until about January 1, 1866, when he laid aside business cares of that
-nature for good and all, settling down in Paterson, N. J., where he
-became one of its most honored citizens.
-
-J. W. Raynor was born in Ireland March 31, 1823; he died in North
-Paterson, N. J., April 5, 1900.
-
-
-GEORGE KUNKEL began his career as a black-face performer in 1844.
-In 1853 he organized a minstrel company that became famous as the
-Nightingale Serenaders; they traveled until 1855.
-
-In the latter year Mr. Kunkel became manager of a theatre in Baltimore,
-and continued in such until 1861, when he again reorganized his
-minstrel company for a tour. In 1866 the company was formed for the
-third time for a brief engagement, after which Mr. Kunkel played Uncle
-Tom, and for many years, or until shortly before his death, he appeared
-in that role, in which he was eminently successful.
-
-He married Ada Proctor, the actress, about 1861.
-
-George Kunkel was born in Green Castle, Pa.; he died in Baltimore, Md.,
-January 25, 1885; aged 62 years.
-
-
-JOSEPH T. TROWBRIDGE was prominent as a bass singer and interlocutor.
-
-He joined Ordway’s Aeolians in Boston in 1852, and continued with them
-until December, 1857, when Johnny Pell, Lon and Billy Morris and John
-T. Huntley, organized a company bearing their names, and opened in
-Boston. Mr. Trowbridge was with them. Mr. Huntley withdrew about March,
-1859, and the company was thereafter known as that of Morris Bros.,
-Pell and Trowbridge, and as such it continued until 1867. He later
-became identified in the management of two Boston theatres. About 1872
-he retired from active business.
-
-Jos. T. Trowbridge was born in Newtonville, Mass., September, 1823; he
-died in Chelsea, Mass., Jan. 11, 1891.
-
-
-HANK MASON was familiarly known as “Hank, the Mason.” He was one of the
-foremost jig dancers in the early days of minstrelsy. He was born April
-18, 1823; he died in Brooklyn, N. Y., October 9, 1885.
-
-
-W. W. NEWCOMB (Coomb) was one of the best known performers of
-minstrelsy.
-
-As a boy he traveled with circuses. In the late 40’s he formed a
-partnership with Bije Thayer, of Boston, and successfully conducted a
-minstrel company about four years.
-
-He made his first New York appearance in December, 1851; subsequently
-playing with Fellowe’s Minstrels, and later Wood’s Minstrels, in New
-York, with whom he remained until July, 1853. That same year he went
-with Campbell’s Minstrels, and continued four years with them.
-
-In 1857 with Hy. Rumsey he organized Rumsey and Newcomb’s Minstrels,
-playing in the United States, Canada, Cuba, England and Germany. The
-organization broke up in London in the Spring of 1862.
-
-Mr. Newcomb and Eph. Horn organized a company the following year; Mr.
-Horn soon dropped out, and Newcomb’s Minstrels continued until 1871.
-
-April 17, that year, Newcomb and Arlington’s Minstrels opened in New
-York, on the present site of the Fifth Avenue Theatre.
-
-Mr. Newcomb subsequently appeared with various companies, his last
-appearance being at Hooley’s Theatre in Brooklyn, N. Y., February 17,
-1877.
-
-“Bill” Newcomb was the originator of the “Essence of Old Virginny”
-dance; a great end man; and he was especially noted for his stump
-speeches.
-
-W. W. Newcomb was born in Utica, N. Y., Aug. 4, 1823; he died in New
-York May 1, 1877.
-
-
-JOHN DIAMOND was one of, if not the greatest jig dancers that the world
-ever knew.
-
-At a very early age he gave evidence of the wonderful talents he
-possessed, but it was not until the late P. T. Barnum took him in hand,
-and at Vauxhall Garden, New York, in the Spring of 1840, and brought
-him out, and subsequently took him all over the Union, and later to
-Europe, that he achieved the recognition he so richly deserved.
-
-After the original four had given their first minstrel performance in
-February, 1843, Diamond was called upon to strengthen the quartette at
-a subsequent performance, a very short time later.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- JOHN MULLIGAN
-
- MILT. G. BARLOW
-
- LEW. PARKER
-
- JOHN PENDY
-
- BILLY ARLINGTON
-
- DAN. SHELBY
-
- GEO. EDWARDS
-
- HUBERT W. EAGAN
-
- BILLY McALLISTER
-
-PROMINENT PERFORMERS OF THE PAST AND PRESENT.]
-
-On July 8, 1844, he danced a contest with Master Juba, the colored
-dancer, and the greatest his race ever knew.
-
-He was feted and courted for many years, but dissipation and riotous
-living carried him to an early grave.
-
-John Diamond was born in New York City, in 1823; he died in
-Philadelphia, October 29, 1857.
-
-
-J. A. HERMAN (Simonson) was one of the very earliest ballad singers in
-minstrelsy; he was the possessor of a sweet tenor voice which he used
-in rendering the old songs to excellent advantage.
-
-Mr. Herman’s first appearance was in New York, at the Olympic Theatre,
-in 1839, singing “Norah McShane.”
-
-His first minstrel engagement was with the “Campbell’s”; he was with
-this company in New York as early as October 17, 1848.
-
-Subsequently he was associated with Wood and Fellowe’s; Henry Wood in
-1852; Wood and Christy from 1853 to 1858; in the Fall of that year
-he joined Sniffen’s “Campbell’s” Minstrels, and when George Christy
-returned from California in the Summer of 1859, Mr. Herman went with
-him, and continued with Christy for a long period.
-
-About 1863 he joined Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, and remained with
-them several years; barring the time Hooley was in Chicago.
-
-Mr. Herman’s two brothers, George W. and William H., were both old-time
-minstrels. Mr. Herman retired from the profession a great many years
-before his death.
-
-J. A. Herman was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., January 1, 1823; he died at
-Wood Haven, Long Island, N. Y., January 23, 1901.
-
-
-DAN RICE (McLaren), the world-famous clown, in conjunction with Sam
-Sanford and others, in blackface, appeared in New York City at Palmo’s
-Opera House in the spring of 1843.
-
-He was born in New York City, January 25, 1823; he died in Long Branch,
-N. J., February 22, 1900.
-
-
-JOSEPH D. MURPHY (Donnelly) began his minstrel career in the middle
-40’s as a member of the Sable Harmonists: he was then a ballad singer.
-
-On the 17th day of July, 1850, Mr. Murphy, Luke West, Matt. Peel and
-James Norris formed an organization known as the “Original Campbell
-Minstrels;” subsequently Mr. Norris retiring, the company flourished
-for several seasons as Murphy, West and Peel’s Minstrels.
-
-About 1860 Mr. Murphy retired from minstrelsy and assumed various
-executive positions, notably as business manager at the Arch Street
-Theatre in Philadelphia, where he remained for fifteen years.
-
-Mr. Murphy was a half brother of Jno. F. Donnelly.
-
-Jos. D. Murphy was born in Philadelphia, January 11, 1823; he died
-there January 1, 1884.
-
-
-C. L. HUNTLEY, a member of Thayer’s Boston Sable Harmonists about 1850,
-was a fine guitar player, and very proficient in the manipulation of
-the bones.
-
-He died in Boston, Mass., April 13, 1883; aged about 60 years.
-
-
-TOM VAUGHN was one of the earliest banjoists of minstrelsy. When
-sixteen years of age he made his professional debut with Holt and
-Nichols Circus; later he joined Turner and Rockwell’s, and Welch and
-Mann’s Circuses. After this he went to Buffalo, and met E. P. Christy,
-and when the latter formed the minstrel company that bore his name,
-Mr. Vaughn was one of the four original members. He continued with Mr.
-Christy until the dissolution of the company in July, 1854, and a few
-months later went with Christy’s Minstrels to California.
-
-Mr. Vaughn returned to New York in 1855, and opened Vaughn’s Minstrels
-there that same year. Subsequently he was with Wood and Christy’s and
-George Christy’s Minstrels for several years, mostly in the Metropolis.
-
-Tom Vaughn was born in New York, September 5, 1823; he died in
-Zanesville, Ohio, September 3, 1875.
-
-
-J. T. HUNTLEY was one of the early wench dancers of minstrelsy.
-
-In December, 1857, he, with Lon and Billy Morris and Johnny Pell,
-seceded from Ordway’s Aeolians in Boston, and organized in that city a
-minstrel company bearing their names, which they conducted successfully
-for about two years, after which Mr. Huntley organized his own minstrel
-company and played an engagement at the Eleventh Street Opera House in
-Philadelphia in the Spring of 1859.
-
-August 23, 1859, he married the widow of Matt. Peel, and at once
-assumed the management of Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Campbell’s Minstrels, and
-continued in that capacity for about four or five years, after which he
-retired to private life.
-
-J. T. Huntley was born in New York, June 24, 1824; he died in
-Mamaroneck, N. Y., August 4, 1895.
-
-
-EARL HORTON PIERCE was one of the greatest minstrel comedians of his
-day. April 8, 1850, he opened his own minstrel company in New York;
-it was subsequently Pierce and Fellowe’s Minstrels. Later, Mr. Pierce
-was with E. P. Christy’s Company in New York, and Ordway’s Aeolians
-in Boston. August 3, 1857, with J. W. Raynor, they opened in London,
-England, as “Christy’s Minstrels;” this was the first company to play
-under that title in England. Subsequently all minstrel companies were
-called “Christy’s.” Mr. Pierce made a tremendous hit singing a topical
-song called “Hoop de-Dooden-Do.” After his death his chair on the end
-remained vacant for three days, during which time it was draped.
-
-Earl H. Pierce was born in New York in 1823; he died in London,
-England, June 5, 1859.
-
-
-TOM MAGUIRE never got the credit due him for placing minstrelsy in
-California on the high plane it once enjoyed. Mr. Maguire went to San
-Francisco in 1849, and a year later built the Jenny Lind Theatre there.
-
-It was Maguire who brought George Christy and Company to California in
-1858, and it was Maguire a dozen years or so later that paved the way
-for the success that later came to Billy Emerson, with whom Maguire was
-associated until the late 70’s.
-
-And when Emerson made his first trip to Australia about 1873,
-Maguire’s Minstrels flourished on in San Francisco. Yes, the great
-coast metropolis owes much to Tom Maguire. Mr. Maguire died in New
-York, January 20, 1896; aged 72 years.
-
-
-DR. JOHN P. ORDWAY was one of the earliest prominent managers engaged
-in permanent minstrelsy in one particular city.
-
-He was the founder of the Aeolians, a famous minstrel organization who
-gave their first performance in Harmony Hall, Boston, Mass., December
-16, 1849, and played in that city until September, 1859.
-
-December 12, same year, he appeared with Anderson’s Minstrels for a few
-nights only; this was his last professional appearance.
-
-Dr. Ordway was a skilled musician, and the composer of many popular
-ballads. While with his company he usually played the piano in the
-first part and invariably in white-face.
-
-After retiring from the stage, he practiced medicine for several years,
-and in 1868 was a member of the Massachusetts Legislature.
-
-He was the founder of the Massachusetts Anglers (now Fish and Game)
-Association.
-
-Dr. John P. Ordway was born in Salem, Mass., in 1824; he died in
-Boston, Mass., April 27, 1880.
-
-
-WILLIAM H. SMITH, the well-known manager, went to California in 1850,
-and in 1856 opened the Varieties Theatre in San Francisco. In 1860 he
-organized the California Minstrels and took them to South America,
-Australia and Europe.
-
-In 1865 he was associated in the management of Cotton and Murphy’s
-Minstrels, frequently acting as interlocutor.
-
-In 1880 he went to St. Louis, Mo., and at various times was manager of
-the Comique, Peoples and Standard Theatres there.
-
-On September 24, 1866, Mr. Smith married Clara Sages in San Francisco.
-
-William H. Smith was born in Norwich, Conn., August 10, 1824; he died
-in St. Louis, Mo., December 1, 1901.
-
-
-“BIJE” (Amidon L.) THAYER was one of the pioneers of minstrelsy; his
-operations were confined to Boston and contiguous territory chiefly.
-
-Thayer’s Minstrels and Thayer and Newcomb’s Minstrels existed from the
-middle 40’s to the early 50’s.
-
-To Mr. Thayer belongs the credit of being the first to establish a
-_permanent_ minstrel company in Boston, although the Buckleys had
-preceded him in giving entertainments there.
-
-“Bije” Thayer died in Boston, Mass., February 20, 1864; aged 41 years.
-
-
-BARNEY WILLIAMS (Bernard O’Flaherty), who was one of America’s greatest
-legitimate Irish comedians, in his _very_ early days was equally
-prominent as a burnt-cork performer.
-
-July 8, 1845, at the Elysian Fields in Hoboken, N. J., he was
-advertised as “master of the tambourine.” September 6, same year, at
-Castle Garden, New York, he portrayed the great black-face part of
-“Dandy Jim, of Caroline.”
-
-Barney Williams was born in Cork, Ireland, July 20, 1824; he died in
-New York City, April 25, 1876.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- TOM. VAUGHN
-
- EDWIN P. CHRISTY
-
- GEO. CHRISTY
-
-THE ORIGINAL CHRISTY MINSTRELS (Organized about 1844).
-
-The company at its inception comprised Edwin P. Christy (the founder),
-Geo. Christy, Tom Vaughn and Lansing Durand. The other photos here
-represent minstrel scenes of that day.]
-
-
-TOM BRIGGS was one of the earliest and greatest banjo performers in
-minstrelsy; when he first went on the stage, in the early 40’s, he
-traveled under the name of Fluter.
-
-He invented the banjo thimble in 1848, and it came into general use
-three years later.
-
-He was the first to do the bell chimes, and gave imitations of a
-horse-race on the banjo.
-
-He played successful engagements in the 40’s and 50’s with Wood’s
-Minstrels, likewise Buckley’s Serenaders. September 20, 1854, he left
-New York with E. P. Christy’s Minstrels to play an engagement in San
-Francisco; he contracted an illness on the way, and was unable to play.
-
-Tom Briggs died in San Francisco October 23, 1854; aged 30 years.
-
-
-JULIA GOULD was the first woman to achieve prominence in minstrelsy;
-she was with the famous Buckley Serenaders, and played several
-engagements with them in the 50’s; she was also with Maguire’s San
-Francisco Minstrels in San Francisco, July 11, 1864.
-
-She essayed the principal female roles in the great operatic burlesque
-that made the Buckleys famous; always appearing in black-face.
-
-Miss Gould’s first husband was A. T. Gregory Hall; she subsequently
-married John H. Collins, a prominent minstrel singer.
-
-She was an actress and singer of rare and versatile talents.
-
-Julia Gould was born in London, England, August 28, 1824; she died in
-Kinamundy, Ill., January 29, 1893.
-
-
-HORACE WESTON, a colored man, was one of the world’s greatest
-banjoists; in addition he was a good general musician and dancer; a
-fact that is not generally known.
-
-He served in the Army, and in July, 1863, was discharged, after which
-he joined Buckley’s Serenaders in Boston, and later traveled with
-them. About 1867 he became a member of the Georgia Minstrels, a famous
-colored organization.
-
-In 1878 he went to Europe with an “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” Company; he
-played the principal Continental cities, and was a sensation.
-
-Returning to America he joined Haverly’s Georgia Minstrels. The balance
-of his career was spent mostly in the variety theatres.
-
-Horace Weston was born in Derby, Conn., in 1825; he died in New York,
-May 23, 1890.
-
- * * * * *
-
-The honor and distinction (and the pleasant sensation) of having
-received the highest salary ever paid to any black-face single
-performer belongs to Lew Dockstader.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-TIM WOODRUFF appeared mostly in the West, where he was recognized as a
-truly great comedian.
-
-His first appearance was made in Cincinnati, March 15, 1842; in an act
-called “Spirit Rappings,” later more generally known as the “Haunted
-House;” he achieved great success in this, and was forever identified
-with it.
-
-He was at various times associated with Woodruff’s Minstrels;
-Woodruff, Brown and Jones’ Minstrels, and Woodruff and Foster’s
-Minstrels; these companies were mostly in existence in the 50’s.
-
-About 1860 he entered the variety business, and continued with it
-practically up to his death.
-
-Tim Woodruff was born in Hamilton, Ohio; he died in Cincinnati, Ohio,
-November 12, 1872.
-
-
-E. W. MACKNEY was England’s earliest representative of the negro
-character.
-
-He appeared in sketches with J. A. Cave, fully ten years before the
-first minstrel company invaded England in 1843.
-
-He was prompted by the pronounced success achieved by “Daddy” Rice, of
-Jim Crow fame.
-
-Mr. Mackney died in England, March 26, 1909; aged 84 years.
-
-
-WILLIAM B. FISH was one of the “Sable Harmonists” of the 40’s. He died
-in Argenta, Ark., July 29, 1875.
-
-
-JOHN G. BROWN was a celebrated tambourinist and comedian in the
-earliest days of minstrelsy.
-
-He was with the Buckleys when they played New York, May 9, 1844; at
-that time they were known as the Congo Melodists. In the Fall of 1848
-he was with Thayer’s Minstrels, one of the famous Boston companies.
-
-He died in New Bedford, Mass., October 8, 1858.
-
-
-JOSEPH H. RAINER was one of the earliest vocalists and interlocutors.
-He was with Wood’s Minstrels in New York in 1852, and with Horn and
-Newcomb’s Company in 1863. He first appeared professionally in the late
-40’s. He had been a resident of Lockport, N. Y., for many years.
-
-Mr. Rainer was born in Lancaster, England, May 11, 1825; he died in
-Philadelphia, Pa., March 11, 1906.
-
-
-GEORGE WINSHIP was one of the pioneers of minstrelsy. As early as
-1849 he occupied the bone end with the New York Serenaders, a famous
-minstrel company of that day.
-
-He was long associated with J. W. McAndrews, the famous “Watermelon
-Man.”
-
-About 1873 he was stage manager and performer at the Opera House,
-Rondout, N. Y., he had not appeared professionally much since then.
-
-Mr. Winship had long been a resident of Fruitvale, Cal., where he died
-October 19, 1900.
-
-
-HARRY HAPGOOD was, up to the time of his death, the oldest living
-minstrel agent.
-
-In his youth he was known as “Handsome Harry.”
-
-His professional career began as an actor in Philadelphia in 1843. He
-subsequently became a manager and agent for various companies, and in
-the latter capacity was with Rumsey and Newcomb’s Minstrels about four
-years. He then was associated with Mr. Rumsey in the Rumsey Minstrels
-in 1863.
-
-Harry Hapgood was born in Elizabethtown, N. Y., February 26, 1825; he
-died at Amityville, Long Island, N. Y., July 10, 1910.
-
-
-MASTER JUBA (William H. Lane) was a colored man, and as a jig dancer it
-is said that the world never saw his equal.
-
-He played the tambourine with the Georgia Champions Minstrels in 1843,
-and several engagements with Charley White’s Minstrels in New York.
-
-He went to Europe about 1848, and in the Spring of the following year
-played an engagement with Pell’s Serenaders at the Surrey Theatre in
-London. He was lionized in Europe, and took the Britishers by storm. He
-married a white woman there.
-
-“Master” Juba died in London, England, about 1852; he was born in the
-United States about 1825.
-
-
-GILBERT W. PELL was a brother of Dick Pelham, one of the original
-minstrels of 1843.
-
-As a member of the Ethiopian Serenaders, he went to England in 1846.
-The success of the company was so great in London that morning
-performances had to be given, and in addition they appeared at private
-residences of the rich. Mr. Pell, who played the bone end, and the
-company, whose portraits adorn another page, played an engagement at
-Palmo’s Opera House, New York, September 15, 1845.
-
-In 1849 he was in England with his brother’s company, known as Pell’s
-Serenaders. Subsequently he returned to the United States, but early in
-1859 he again went to Europe, where he remained until his death.
-
-Gilbert W. Pell was born in New York City; he died in Lancashire,
-England, December 21, 1872, aged 47 years.
-
-
-JNO. H. CARLE, famous for the singing of “The Lively Old Flea,”
-accompanied by the banjo, was one of the early prominent proprietors of
-a minstrel show. In the 50’s he was associated with J. G. H. Shorey and
-Chas. Duprez; on July 4, 1856, he withdrew from the partnership, and
-for many years played minstrel and variety engagements.
-
-About 1876 he went to fill a two weeks’ engagement at Flood’s New Park
-Theatre, Curtis Bay, Md. He remained there until the time of his death,
-nearly a quarter of a century, and he had the distinction at that time
-of being the oldest active banjoist and vocalist before the public,
-retaining his vivacity all the while.
-
-John H. Carle was born at Portland, Me.; he died at Curtis Bay, Md.,
-September 20, 1900; age 75 years.
-
-
-“PUNCH” COLLINS (W. Pearson Collins), the well-known comedian of the
-early minstrel days, first appeared prominently with Sam Sanford’s
-Minstrels April 1, 1850, at the Astor Place Opera House, New York
-City, and was at the opening of the first theatre ever built expressly
-for minstrelsy, also by Sanford, August 1, 1853; subsequently he was
-with Earl Pierce’s Minstrels in New York in 1855; on August 3, 1857,
-he opened in London, England, with Raynor and Pierce’s “Christy”
-Minstrels. This was the first minstrel organization that ever played in
-England under the title of “Christy.”
-
-After the death of Earl Pierce Mr. Collins occupied the end chair
-formerly occupied by Pierce.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- EDWIN BOOTH
-
- JAS. A. HERNE
-
- P. S. GILMORE
-
- EDWIN FORREST
-
- BARNEY WILLIAMS
-
- JOS. JEFFERSON
-
- WM. CASTLE
-
- TONY PASTOR
-
- DAN. DALY
-
- P. T. BARNUM
-
- RICHARD GOLDEN
-
- HARRY KERNELL
-
- DAN. RICE
-
- J. W. KELLY
-
- NEIL. BURGESS
-
- J. K. EMMETT
-
-FAMOUS ARTISTS OF THE PAST--THEY ALL BLACKED UP.]
-
-Mr. Collins later withdrew from this company, and with “Tony” Nish
-organized another “Christy” company, opening in London, England, at Her
-Majesty’s Concert Hall Monday, March 18, 1861; subsequently he sold his
-interest in this company, returned to London, and organized another
-troupe; they played at Polygraphic Hall as early as April 14, 1862.
-
-In September, 1863, he sailed for India, playing the principal cities.
-In July, 1866, he returned to America, later going to England, where
-he married; subsequently he returned to Pittsburgh, where he remained
-until his death. He had not appeared professionally for several years
-prior to that.
-
-Mr. Collins did an “end”, a stump speech and a female impersonation
-equally artistic.
-
-W. P. Collins died at Pittsburgh, Pa., November 1, 1881; age about 55
-years.
-
-
-L. V. H. CROSBY has been credited as being the first interlocutor,
-then called “middle man” of minstrelsy; this was about 1845, when
-he organized the Boston Harmoneons. This company gave a special
-performance at the White House in Washington, D. C., June 18, 1846, for
-President Polk.
-
-Mr. Crosby was composer of several songs, and a basso of unusual
-ability. His late years were devoted almost exclusively to concert work.
-
-L. V. H. Crosby died at Reynolds, Ga., March 26, 1884; age about 60
-years.
-
- * * * * *
-
-JAMES UNSWORTH and NELSE SEYMOUR were born and died within thirty days
-of each other.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-E. J. MELVILLE (Edward John Robbins), a well-known singer of the
-early days of minstrelsy, came to the United States in 1849; shortly
-afterwards he sang in the choir of a church in Cleveland, O., where he
-was known as the best tenor in that city. His principal engagements
-were with Hooley’s Minstrels, Hooley and Campbell’s Minstrels (being
-with them at their inception, May 6, 1860), Lloyd’s Minstrels,
-Carncross and Dixey, and Duprez and Benedict. He also played an
-engagement at the Canterbury Music Hall, New York City, in October,
-1861.
-
-Mr. Melville was married to Miss Amelia Nash, October 1, 1848, by whom
-he had three daughters, one of whom became the wife of Edwin French,
-the banjoist.
-
-Mr. Melville’s private life was a most happy one; he was generous,
-cheerful and a true friend.
-
-E. J. Melville was born in London, England, February 4, 1825; he died
-in Buffalo, N. Y., January 18, 1903.
-
-
-“JIM” JOHNSON (Gallagher), an old-time banjoist, well known in his day
-and popular on the steamer “Banjo”, was born in New York about 1825; he
-died in New Orleans, La., November 22, 1875.
-
-
-DICK SLITER was one of the world’s greatest jig dancers. His
-professional career commenced in the late 30’s, and he had been with
-many of the early famous organizations, notably Sanford’s Minstrels in
-1859.
-
-He also, with Johnny Booker, organized Booker and Sliter’s Minstrels,
-which was quite successful. Dick Sliter died in Jackson, Mich., May 21,
-1861.
-
-
-JASPER H. ROSS was famed as a musical director and composer. His
-professional career began in 1847 with Spalding and Rogers’ Circus.
-Subsequently he played extended engagements with the minstrel companies
-of Carncross, Bryant’s, White’s, Rumsey and Newcomb’s and the San
-Franciscos.
-
-He was born in Northampton, Mass., in 1826; he died in New York,
-September 8, 1889.
-
-
-JIMMY WELLS, once well-known as a manager, was a member of Ordway’s
-Aeolians in Boston for a lengthy period in the early 50’s.
-
-He was born in New York in 1826; he died in Grand Rapids, Mich., March
-16, 1893.
-
-
-SAM WELLS was prominent as a bass vocalist and interlocutor. He went
-to Europe in the middle 40’s with the Ethiopian Serenaders, and they
-created a sensation.
-
-He was with several prominent minstrel companies located in New York
-up to 1855, when he sailed for California, where he was located with
-George Christy’s and other minstrel companies until December, 1863,
-when he went to New York, and after playing one week with Bryant’s
-Minstrels, returned to California.
-
-Mr. Wells’ death was caused by being thrown from a horse in California,
-August 27, 1864; he was 38 years of age.
-
-
-CHARLEY HOWARD has been given credit of being the first to represent
-the aged darkey on the stage. At the age of ten years he traveled
-with Joe Sweeney’s company, giving concerts in the Southern States,
-appearing in barns and churches, and traveling by coaches.
-
-Mr. Howard was with many prominent minstrel organizations, and when
-Haverly separated from Cal. Wagner in 1873, Howard was one of the first
-engaged for the Haverly Minstrels.
-
-Charley Howard was born in Virginia, June 5, 1826; He died in Brooklyn,
-N. Y., April 28, 1895.
-
-
-STEPHEN COLLINS FOSTER, whose simple and homely ballads contributed
-as much as any other cause to the placing of early minstrelsy on a
-permanent and successful basis, was the author, among others, of
-“Willie, We Have Missed You”, “Old Uncle Ned”, “My Old Kentucky Home”,
-“Old Dog Tray”, “Massa’s in de Cold, Cold Ground”, “Ellen Bayne” and
-“Old Black Joe.”
-
-He was born in Allegheny, Pa., July 4, 1826; he died in New York City,
-January 13, 1864.
-
-
-JAMES POWERS was one of the real early minstrels, and a member of the
-Boston Harmoneons, which were especially well known in Massachusetts.
-With his brother John, he was with the above organization several
-seasons, commencing in the early 40’s.
-
-Mr. Powers was the author of “She Sleeps in the Grave” and “Faded
-Flowers”, favorite ballads of days now forgotten.
-
-James Powers died in Boston, Mass., January 5, 1890; age 64 years.
-
-
-DAN LEON, a real old-time black-face comedian and general performer,
-died in New York City, April 27, 1863; he was born March 1, 1826.
-
-
-W. JACKSON RUDOLPH, one of the pioneers of minstrelsy, made his
-first appearance in his native city early in 1846 in black-face as a
-banjoist; the following year he was one of the Sable Harmonists; in
-1849 he was with the Virginia Minstrels, and up until 1855, when he
-joined Sanford’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, he was almost continuously
-associated with one or the other of the many minstrel bands that were
-then in evidence.
-
-He later went on the legitimate stage, but subsequently, in 1864,
-joined Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-About 1870 he played his last minstrel engagement with Simmons and
-Slocum, also in the Quaker City. November 3, 1880, he made his last
-appearance on the stage of Wood’s Museum in Philadelphia.
-
-W. Jackson Rudolph was born in Philadelphia, 1826; he died there
-September 5, 1881.
-
-
-JOHN A. DINGESS. After the dissolution of the Duprez and Green’s
-Minstrels as an organization in 1865, Mr. Dingess formed a partnership
-with Jno. E. Green and organized Dingess and Green’s Minstrels, opening
-at Chattanooga, Tenn., November 18, 1866; their existence was short
-lived. He was subsequently, and for many years, engaged in an executive
-capacity in the circus business.
-
-John A. Dingess was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1826; he died in New
-York City, April 14, 1901.
-
-
-LUKE WEST (William Sheppard) was the first performer to do a whistling
-solo in minstrelsy, which he did as early as 1845 at Otto Cottage,
-Hoboken, N. J.
-
-In the Fall of 1848 he was one of the organizers of the Campbell’s
-Minstrels; November 29, 1849, he joined the E. P. Christy’s Minstrels
-in New York, resuming his own name of Sheppard. On August 15, 1850,
-in conjunction with Matt. Peel, Joseph D. Murphy and James Norris,
-“Campbell’s Minstrels” gave their first performance. Subsequently the
-organization was known as Murphy, West and Peel’s Minstrels, and as
-such continued until his death. In addition to his whistling ability,
-Mr. West was an accomplished comedian, dancer and banjoist.
-
-Luke West was born in Philadelphia, 1826; he died in Boston, Mass., May
-26, 1854.
-
-
-CHARLES G. LONG, who was for nearly forty years associated in the
-management of the Academy of Music, in Selma, Ala., with George T.
-Rees, the present incumbent, was one of the pioneers of minstrelsy.
-
-About 1844 or 1845 he became a member of the Virginia Serenaders, a
-full page photograph of which is shown elsewhere. The company traveled
-by wagon through Pennsylvania and New York chiefly.
-
-It has been stated that Mr. Long joined this company when he was ten
-years of age; this is clearly erroneous, as the little band was not
-organized until 1843, probably in the late Spring or early Summer.
-
-Mr. Long played a banjo, one of his own making.
-
-Charles G. Long was born in Carlisle, England, December 20, 1827; he
-died in Selma, Ala., January 28, 1908.
-
-
-FRED BURGESS was for many years co-proprietor with “Pony” Moore at St.
-James Hall, London, England, of Moore and Burgess’ Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Burgess was a shrewd business man, and possessed intellect out of
-the ordinary. At one time he was a member of Kunkel’s Nightingales, an
-early minstrel company in the United States.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- CLARENCE BURTON
-
- HY. RUMSEY
-
- BILLY HUNTLEY
-
- EDWIN FRENCH
-
- OSCAR WILLIS
-
- EDMOND G. CORBIN
-
-BRIGHT LIGHTS OF THE BANJO.]
-
-In the fall of 1864, at Glasgow, Scotland, he was engaged as agent for
-Moore, Crocker, Hamilton and Ritter’s Minstrels; about a year later
-he secured St. James Hall, in the British metropolis, and a few years
-later, “Pony” Moore having bought out Hamilton and Ritter, and the
-death of Crocker paved the way for a partnership; the organization
-subsequently and for many years was known as Moore and Burgess’
-Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Burgess was twice married; his second wife was Miss Ellen Meyrick.
-
-Fred Burgess was born in Providence, R. I.; he died at Finchley,
-England, July 26, 1893; age 66 years.
-
-
-CHARLES CALLENDER, proprietor and manager of the famous colored
-organization that bore his name, played many seasons on the road,
-commencing about 1872; several years later Haverly purchased his
-interests; the company subsequently became the property of Charles and
-Gustave Frohman.
-
-Mr. Callender had retired from active theatricals some years before his
-death.
-
-Charles Callender died at Chicago, Ill., February 24, 1897; age 70
-years.
-
-
-FRANK MORAN came to the United States at the age of four years; it was
-not until later that he did a stump speech.
-
-His first appearance professionally was about 1848, as a comic
-singer in Philadelphia with Raymond and Waring’s Circus. He was with
-several small minstrel shows before going to California in 1850, and
-subsequently to Australia.
-
-Some time after his return from the Antipodes, he joined Sanford’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia, and later was with Carncross and Dixey at
-different periods, aggregating a number of years.
-
-September 5, 1864, he opened Moran’s Minstrels on Chestnut Street,
-Philadelphia. Later he was with Bryant’s, and Kelly and Leon’s
-Minstrels in New York; Hooley’s in Brooklyn, and Moore and Burgess’ in
-London.
-
-As Moran and Dixey’s Minstrels, the famous Eleventh Street Opera House
-in Philadelphia opened October 2, 1871; in September, the following
-year, the company was known as Moran’s Minstrels.
-
-Subsequently Moran and Billy Manning’s Minstrels made a brief tour.
-Of later years Mr. Moran was associated with Ned Thomas in a minstrel
-company, and on July 17, 1890, he began an engagement with Wm. Henry
-Rice’s World’s Fair Minstrels.
-
-Frank Moran was a natural born comedian, and at times was rather
-caustic in his wit; but underneath a seeming rough exterior was a heart
-that was never known to fail a fellow performer in distress.
-
-As a stump orator he was different from all others, and he did this act
-almost up to the time of his death.
-
-Mr. Moran was twice married; his first wife died a few years prior to
-his marriage to Miss Jessie Millar, February 1, 1898.
-
-Frank Moran was born in Ireland, September 15, 1827; he died in
-Philadelphia, December 14, 1898.
-
-
-“NICK” BOWERS (Edward Bowers), one of the ablest and most efficient
-middle men and stage directors of minstrelsy, made his first appearance
-at Charley White’s in New York, in the early 50’s; subsequent
-engagements were with Ordway’s Aeolians, Morris Bros., Pell and
-Trowbridge and Wood and Christy’s Minstrels.
-
-In 1858, in conjunction with Billy Birch and Charley Fox, they
-presented Birch, Bowers and Fox’s Minstrels, and in 1864, with Tom
-Prendergast, launched a company that had a brief existence. For some
-time he played star engagements with John Mulligan.
-
-His last appearance was in New York City, February 11, 1865.
-
-Nick Bowers died in Brooklyn, N. Y., February 27, 1865; age 38 years.
-
-
-PAUL BERGER was one of the greatest bass singers in minstrelsy, and at
-the requests of Presidents Tyler and Van Buren, he sang before those
-chief executives.
-
-He was with Matt. Peel’s Minstrels in 1858; with Sanford’s Minstrels
-in Philadelphia, and later with Carncross and Dixey’s Co. in the
-same city. Mr. Berger was business manager for Fox’s Theatre in
-Philadelphia, in 1876.
-
-Paul Berger died in Philadelphia, October 8, 1894; age 67 years.
-
-
-JOHN MULLIGAN was an altitudinous comedian, and in the old nigger
-acts with performers of immature stature, in the ludicrous make-up he
-invariably affected, he was screamingly funny. His first professional
-appearance was with Raymond and Waring’s Circus; his first minstrel
-engagement was with the Perham Company more than fifty years ago. Mr.
-Mulligan appeared for several seasons in the various variety houses
-controlled by George Lea.
-
-In June, 1866, he commenced an engagement at Hooley’s Minstrels in
-Brooklyn, remaining fifteen months; subsequently he was with the San
-Franciscos in New York.
-
-January 2, 1871, when Hooley invaded Chicago, Mr. Mulligan was with his
-company.
-
-Mr. Mulligan was most happily married, and his domestic life was an
-ideal one.
-
-John Mulligan was born in New York City, 1827, where he died July 28,
-1873.
-
-
-CHARLES CHRISTIE, who had various companies bearing his name, notably
-one in England about 1866, died in Kansas City, Mo., February 12, 1897;
-age 69 years.
-
-
-FRED WILSON. The distinction of being the oldest living minstrel
-undoubtedly belongs to the subject of this sketch, who made his first
-appearance about 1843, and for four or five years allied himself with
-many of the various minstrel companies that sprang up after the success
-of the parent organization.
-
-In 1848 he joined “Bije” Thayer’s Minstrels, a prominent Boston Company.
-
-While Mr. Wilson was not the first to do clog dancing in this country,
-he was undoubtedly the first to do so in a minstrel company.
-
-In the Fall of 1858 he joined Bryant’s Minstrels in New York, and about
-December 1, that year, made his first appearance in Boston with the
-Morris Bros., Pell and Trowbridge’s Minstrels, where he made a lengthy
-stay.
-
-April 29, 1861, he opened with Lloyd’s Minstrels in New York, closing
-May 25, following. Later he went to China in a government capacity, but
-not liking the cooking in the Celestial Empire, returned to the United
-States, arriving January 25, 1864.
-
-(Charley) Morris and Wilson’s Minstrels opened at their permanent
-home in St. Louis, April 10, 1865; the partnership was dissolved in
-February, 1867.
-
-Fred Wilson’s Minstrels toured for two or three years, and then Mr.
-Wilson made another foreign trip; but returned in the Summer of 1871.
-
-In 1872 he was with Cal. Wagner’s Minstrels, and in 1875 made another
-foreign invasion, remaining abroad five years, returning in 1880 and
-joining Haverly’s Minstrels. Subsequently Mr. Wilson, whose specialty
-for many years had been clog dancing, except in 1852 when he was a
-clown in a circus, took up executive duties with many minstrel and
-other organizations. He also promoted several attractions of his own.
-
-Fred Wilson was born in Boston, Mass., November 9, 1827.
-
-
-SAM HAGUE, the famous English minstrel manager, began his career as a
-clog dancer.
-
-He visited the United States in 1850 with his brothers Thomas and
-William; later he was a partner of Dick Sands, also Tim Hayes.
-
-He toured the United States for several seasons with Hague’s Concert
-Company, and in 1865, with Cal. Wagner, formed Wagner and Hague’s
-Minstrels.
-
-He also organized Hague’s Georgia Minstrels, a company of negro
-performers, and gave the first performance at Macon, Ga.
-
-Later they sailed for England, and opened at Liverpool, July 9, 1866,
-and scored a failure. Subsequently Mr. Hague engaged white performers
-for the principal parts, and retaining some of the colored men, gave a
-performance that achieved success.
-
-He organized a permanent minstrel company in Liverpool, and opened
-there in St. James Hall, October 31, 1870, and remained eighteen years,
-after which they made brief tours, up to the time of Mr. Hague’s death.
-
-He visited the United States with Hague’s British Operatic Minstrels,
-opening in Philadelphia, September 12, 1881.
-
-Sam Hague was born in Sheffield, England, in 1828; he died in
-Liverpool, England, January 7, 1901.
-
-
-GEORGE L. HALL has the distinction of being the oldest living minstrel
-balladist. His first appearance was at Georgetown, D. C., October 14,
-1848, with the Beck Family.
-
-Mr. Hall has long since retired from active theatricals, but during
-his long career as a vocalist he was associated with some of the most
-famous organizations in minstrelsy.
-
-Among the most prominent ones that may be mentioned are: Sanderson’s,
-in Baltimore; Sanford’s, in Philadelphia; George Christy’s, and
-Bryant’s, in New York; Skiff and Gaylord’s, Johnny Booker’s, Sam
-Price’s and Boyce and Mudge’s.
-
-Wm. D. Hall, the well-known minstrel and author, in Philadelphia, is a
-son of Mr. Hall.
-
-Geo. L. Hall was born in Baltimore, Md., May 5, 1828.
-
-
-CHARLEY FOX was one of the most popular comedians and banjoists of his
-day.
-
-His first appearance was in 1848. About 1854 he came to New York, and
-for many years was identified with the best permanent organizations. He
-was of the original company of Bryant’s Minstrels, New York, February
-23, 1857.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- BILLY WELCH
-
- JOHNNY RICE
-
-(WELCH & RICE.)
-
- EDDIE GIRARD
-
- WILLIE GIRARD
-
-(GIRARD BROS.)
-
- J. MELVILLE JANSEN
-
- GUS. BRUNO
-
-(KNOWN AS JOHNSON & BRUNO.)]
-
-He was with Lloyd’s Minstrels in 1861, and several seasons with Wood’s
-Minstrels; all in the metropolis. His last appearance was December 22,
-1864.
-
-Charley Fox was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., November 15, 1828; he died in
-New York City December 26, 1864.
-
-
-GEORGE H. COES was a splendid “straight man”, possessed a fine voice,
-and was an excellent banjoist.
-
-He went to California about 1852 from the east, and identified himself
-with several minstrel companies there. He remained a few years, and
-then returned to New York, where he opened with Wood and Christy’s
-Minstrels, October 15, 1857. In the Spring of the following year he
-again went to California, where he appeared with George Christy’s
-Minstrels. In 1859, with Sam Wells, he organized Coes and Wells’
-Minstrels in California.
-
-A few years later he again came East, subsequently joining the Morris
-Brothers’ Minstrels in Boston. He left them February 13, 1866, and on
-the following March 5, he was at the opening of Seaver’s Minstrels
-in Brooklyn, N. Y., in the theatre that is now known as the Novelty.
-A year later, with S. S. Purdy and Frank Converse, Purdy, Coes and
-Converse’s Minstrels were organized.
-
-Mr. Coes flayed stock engagements at Pastor’s, Bob Butler’s and
-John Hart’s theatres in New York City for many years. He formed a
-partnership with Luke Schoolcraft in 1874, which terminated in 1889.
-
-George H. Coes was born in Providence, R. I., about 1828; he died in
-Cambridge, Mass., March 16, 1897.
-
- * * * * *
-
-Arthur Moreland, Bobby Newcomb and Luke Schoolcraft were born on three
-successive days, respectively, in 1847.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-JERRY BRYANT (O’Brien) was the oldest of the famous Bryant Brothers; he
-was an excellent comedian, and was especially good on the “bone end” of
-the minstrel first part.
-
-He made his initial appearance as a ballad singer in 1842. Billy
-Whitlock, the “father of minstrelsy,” first brought him before the
-public.
-
-In 1844 he became a member of the Ethiopian Serenaders, subsequently
-appearing with the Operatic Brothers and Sisters. In June, 1847, he
-formed one of the _original_ Campbell’s Minstrels, organized in New
-York City.
-
-The following year he played in London, England, with Major Dumbleton’s
-Ethiopian Serenaders. In 1849 he returned to America and made a tour
-of the country, and on April 8, 1850, he opened with Earl Pierce’s
-Minstrels at No. 442 Broadway, New York City; subsequently he went to
-Boston, where he met with much success with Ordway’s Aeolians.
-
-When George Christy seceded from the E. P. Christy Minstrels, in New
-York, October 1854, Jerry Bryant took his (Christy’s) place, and
-remained with the company until it disbanded, on July 15, 1854; in
-September, the same year, he went with E. P. Christy’s Minstrels to
-California, and continued until the final dissolution of that company
-took place, a short time after their arrival. In San Francisco he
-next managed the San Francisco Minstrels, in conjunction with Eph.
-Horn and Sher. Campbell. In 1855 they went to Australia, subsequently
-returning to the United States, and on Monday, February 23, 1857, in
-conjunction with his brothers, Dan and Neil, and about ten others, the
-first performance of Bryant’s Minstrels was given in New York City, at
-Mechanics’ Hall, No. 472 Broadway.
-
-Mr. Bryant was married in the Spring of 1859; his widow subsequently
-became the wife of Thomas Donaldson, proprietor of the London Theatre,
-New York.
-
-Of Jerry Bryant it may be truthfully said that he was one of the most
-capable and popular performers that ever blacked up.
-
-His last appearance was with his own company, April 2, 1861.
-
-Jerry Bryant was born in Chesterfield, N. Y., June 11, 1828; he died in
-New York City April 8, 1861.
-
-
-MICKEY WARREN was one of the most famous of the early jig dancers. He
-appeared with Charley White’s Minstrels in New York City in 1849, and
-was for a long time with Bryant’s Minstrels in the same city.
-
-He died in New York City May 14, 1875; age 47 years.
-
-
-HY. RUMSEY was one of the greatest banjoists of his day. In the middle
-50’s he joined Campbell’s Minstrels, and continued with them until
-1857, when, with W. W. Newcomb, he organized a company bearing their
-names, which traveled in the United States and Europe until 1862.
-
-Mr. Rumsey subsequently organized Rumsey’s Minstrels, and traveled with
-it for several seasons.
-
-He was one of the earliest performers to give imitations of the bell
-chimes on the banjo, and unlike most of his contemporaries, Mr. Rumsey
-invariably played while in a standing position.
-
-Hy. Rumsey was born July 12, 1828; he died in Newburgh, N. Y.,
-September 9, 1871.
-
-
-THOMAS L. MOXLEY was known as “Master Floyd” in his earlier career,
-which began with Kunkel’s Nightingales in the 50’s; he remained with
-them several seasons, chiefly as a female impersonator. He was the last
-survivor of that famous company.
-
-He was born in Baltimore, Md., and died there July 7, 1890; age 62
-years.
-
-
-JAMES CARROLL was a capable and efficient “middle man” and vocalist of
-Bryant’s Minstrels in New York City at the time of his death there,
-April 11, 1861; age 32 years.
-
-
-G. W. H. GRIFFIN was one of the prominent men of minstrelsy; he
-excelled as an interlocutor, had a fine voice, was an actor of merit
-and was intellectual to a degree.
-
-His first appearance was in 1850 with the Boston Harmonists in Palmyra,
-N. Y. In 1853 he joined Wood’s Minstrels in New York, and continued
-with them when the organization, a few months later, was known as
-Wood and Christy’s Minstrels. With the latter company he remained
-until May, 1854, when he went to California with George Christy’s
-Minstrels. A year later he returned East, and on February 6, 1860, in
-conjunction with Sher. Campbell and R. M. Hooley, he organized Hooley
-and Campbell’s Minstrels. This company continued until July 13, 1861.
-
-October 28, following, Mr. Griffin and Mr. Hooley organized the famous
-Hooley Minstrels, giving the first performance in New York on that date.
-
-Mr. Griffin severed connection with this company in August, 1862.
-
-Season of 1862-63 he was with Bryant’s Minstrels in New York, and the
-following one with Hooley in Brooklyn, N. Y., and continued with him
-until 1866.
-
-Early in 1867 Mr. Griffin and George Christy’s Minstrels were
-established in New York, where their final appearance was made
-September 23, same year.
-
-Later Mr. Griffin was identified with the following well-known minstrel
-organizations: Kelly and Leon’s; Hooley, in Chicago, and Unsworth’s.
-
-His last minstrel appearance was in Brooklyn, N. Y., January 8, 1875,
-with a venture of his own.
-
-Subsequently he appeared in the variety theatres. His last engagement
-was with Harrigan and Hart Company, in Boston, Mass., June 7, 1879.
-
-G. W. H. Griffin was born in Gloucester, Mass., March 21, 1829; he died
-in Brooklyn, N. Y., July 11, 1879.
-
-
-JOSEPH JEFFERSON.--This famous American comedian, whose long
-association in the character of Rip Van Winkle endeared him to the
-hearts of thousands, at the age of four years, in Washington, D. C.,
-was brought on the stage by the immortal “Daddy” Rice, and danced Jim
-Crow before an admiring audience.
-
-Joseph Jefferson was born in Philadelphia, February 20, 1829; he died
-at Palm Beach, Fla., May 23, 1905.
-
-
-BILLY COLEMAN, a good general black-face performer and banjoist, a
-favorite of Charley White’s Melodeon in New York City in the 50’s, at
-one time associated with George W. Charles, the wench dancer, died
-in New York City June 4, 1867; age 38 years. He had retired from the
-profession about five years prior to this.
-
-
-SHER. CAMPBELL (Sherwood Coan) was conceded to be the greatest baritone
-singer that minstrelsy ever knew, although in his earlier days he had a
-fine alto voice. His first appearance was with Campbell’s Minstrels in
-1849, in New York City, where he remained several years, subsequently
-joining Murphy, West and Peel’s Minstrels, with whom he continued a
-few seasons; later he was with E. P. Christy’s Minstrels in New York,
-and went to California with them in 1854, afterwards joining Backus’
-Minstrels there, going to Australia with that company.
-
-Returning to San Francisco in 1856, he remained there with different
-companies until 1858, when he joined George Christy’s Minstrels,
-returning to New York in May, 1859. The following year, with G. W.
-H. Griffin and R. M. Hooley, they organized Hooley and Campbell’s
-Minstrels.
-
-August 5, 1861, he opened with Bryant’s Minstrels in New York; he
-remained two years; this was his last minstrel engagement. Later
-the Castle-Campbell Opera Company was organized, and Mr. Campbell’s
-success in that form of entertainment was in every respect equal to his
-minstrel triumphs.
-
-Sher. Campbell was born in New Haven, Conn., May 16, 1829; he died in
-Chicago, November 26, 1874.
-
-
-GEORGE W. BAILEY, one of the early minstrel performers, who was with
-Sharpley’s and other first-class organizations, and who was a clever
-“straight” man and interlocutor, died at Milford, Mass., July 2, 1891;
-age 62 years.
-
-[Illustration: The 11TH ST. OPERA HOUSE, PHILADELPHIA.
-
-Now and for nearly sixty years a home of permanent minstrelsy.]
-
-[Illustration: MECHANICS HALL; 1857.
-
-472 Broadway, New York City; for many years the home of Bryant’s
-Minstrels. Only a memory now.
-
-TWO FAMOUS MINSTREL EDIFICES; PAST AND PRESENT.]
-
-
-P. S. GILMORE, who organized and led for many years the famous band
-bearing his name, was a member of Ordway’s Aeolians in Boston, 1851,
-where he sat on the end and played the tambourine. June 24, 1851, he
-began an engagement in Hartford, Con., with the above company.
-
-P. S. Gilmore was born near Dublin, Ireland, December 25, 1829; he died
-at St. Louis, Mo., September 24, 1892.
-
-
-“DAD” SARRISSEY (William H. Blackledge), an old-time banjoist and
-comedian, played several engagements at Charley White’s in New York,
-also Bryant’s Minstrels in the same city. His last appearance was about
-1869.
-
-He was born in New York City in 1829; he died there December 15, 1889.
-
-
-BEN MALLORY was especially well known as a dancer. He was with E. P.
-Christy’s Minstrels in New York, and in the same city was one of the
-original members of Bryant’s Minstrels in 1857.
-
-He was born in New York in 1829; he died in Savannah, Ga., November 2,
-1859.
-
-
-BEN COTTON. One of the truly great names in minstrelsy was Ben
-Cotton--not so great in 1845, when running away from home, yet early
-in his teens, he joined the Amburgh Circus, as in 1906 he made his
-final appearance at Tony Pastor’s, New York City, doing, not the aged
-darky act, by which character he was most familiarly known, but the
-dandy of the present; the beard he had been wont to wear for many years
-was shorn for this occasion. It was no longer “old Ben Cotton,” but
-“young Ben Cotton” that the audience received and applauded. Only the
-initiated could have known that the “darkey” before them was 76 years
-of age, and it is the writer’s proud boast that he was at Pastor’s
-to give Ben Cotton a “hand” on his entrance, and remaining until the
-evening performance, again led with the veteran’s reception; and Ben
-Cotton “made good.”
-
-When Julian’s Serenaders opened the famous Eleventh Street Opera House
-(then known as Cartee’s Lyceum), in Philadelphia, December 4, 1854, he
-was a member of the company. His next prominent engagement was with
-Matt Peel’s Minstrels. Here he made a big success as “Old Bob Ridley”,
-a character portraying the aged negro, which he did with remarkable
-fidelity. Afterwards he was on the steamer “Banjo”, which plied the
-Mississippi River, giving entertainments on board, stopping at the
-various towns on its course. This engagement gave him an opportunity to
-study the negro at close range, which he was quick to take advantage
-of, and it served him in good stead during his entire career.
-
-Returning to New York, Birch and Cotton’s Minstrels played a successful
-engagement at No. 444 Broadway; and in 1862 they went to San Francisco,
-this being Cotton’s first appearance there. He remained under Tom
-Maguire’s management for three years.
-
-With Joe Murphy, Cotton and Murphy’s Minstrels were organized about
-March 1, 1865; the organization continued two years, when, Murphy
-retiring, it became Cotton’s Minstrels.
-
-In 1870 he joined Manning’s Minstrels in Chicago, playing an extended
-engagement there. Later Arlington, Cotton and Kemble’s Minstrels were
-launched in the same city, and met with such success that a theatre was
-built especially for them. Accordingly, Myers Opera House, Chicago, was
-opened with this company September 23, 1872.
-
-Early in 1875 he was with Billy Emerson’s Minstrels at Hooley’s
-Theatre, Chicago, and that same year, with Dave Reed, opened the
-Twenty-third Street Opera House, New York, which had lately been
-vacated, owing to the death of Dan Bryant. The company was known as
-Cotton and Reed’s Minstrels.
-
-A short season of management at Wood’s Museum, Chicago, not proving
-successful, with his wife and daughter he produced and played for many
-years “Faithful Bob”; later this play was known as “True Devotion”.
-
-In 1878 he returned to minstrelsy for a few months, forming an alliance
-with Cal Wagner, known as Cotton and Wagner’s Minstrels.
-
-In 1886 Birch and Cotton’s Minstrels again took the road; following
-this, he played a few seasons in California with a repertoire company.
-
-Engagements of late years were character parts in “The War of Wealth”,
-“The New South” and “As Ye Sow”.
-
-Ben Cotton was thrice married.
-
-Ben Cotton, Jr., who is dead, and Idalene Cotton, who is the wife of
-Nick Long, are his children.
-
-Ben Cotton was born in Pawtucket, R. I., July 27, 1829; he died in New
-York City, February 14, 1908.
-
-
-ANTHONY NISH was well known for many years as a minstrel “leader.”
-
-His first theatrical appearance was in the 50’s, with Parham’s
-Minstrels. July 11, 1857, he sailed for England with Raynor and
-Pierce’s “Christy” Minstrels, opening in London, August 3, following.
-
-He continued with this company for a lengthy period, later organizing
-a troupe of his own. He finally returned to London, and was with Moore
-and Burgess’ Minstrels for many years.
-
-He was born in New Castle, England; he died in London, England, October
-3, 1874; age 39 years.
-
-
-J. B. MURPHY was a well-known composer, vocalist and manager. He had
-been with Beler’s Campbell Minstrels in 1861, and with Lloyd and
-Bidaux’s, where he commenced an engagement January 21, 1867.
-
-He died in Jersey City, N. J., July 13, 1871.
-
-
-GEORGE W. HERMAN (Simonson), well and favorably known as a black-face
-comedian and banjoist, and a brother of J. A. Herman, died in Brooklyn,
-N. Y., about August, 1882.
-
-
-JOSEPH MORTIMER (Mocherman) began his professional career in the
-variety theatres as a black-face banjo player; later he was with
-Gardner and Forepaugh’s Circus.
-
-His first managerial experience was with the Canterbury in Philadelphia
-in 1864.
-
-Subsequently he assumed control of what is now known as the National
-and Casino Theatres in the same city, the former on February 6, 1871;
-the latter August 23, 1873.
-
-He retired from the management of the Grand Central Theatre, June 24,
-1876, and took the management of Matt Morgan’s Variety Company. This
-was his last theatrical enterprise.
-
-Mr. Mortimer was twice married--first to Effie Walters, who was
-later known as Florence Stover, and later to Ida Morris; both were
-professional ladies.
-
-Wm. A. Mortimer, the well-known actor of Corse Payton’s Stock Company,
-is his son.
-
-Joseph Mortimer was born in Harrisburg, Pa.; he died there January 6,
-1880.
-
-
-THE MORRIS BROTHERS.
-
-The careers of LON and BILLY MORRIS were practically contemporaneous.
-
-Their first professional appearance was made at Charlotte, N. Y., in
-1845, at a very early age.
-
-About 1852 they joined Ordway’s Aeolians in Boston, where they remained
-five years, and met with such success that, in conjunction with Johnny
-Pell and J. T. Huntley, they organized a company bearing their names,
-and opened at the Howard Athenaeum in Boston, December 25, 1857.
-
-Early in 1859 Mr. Huntley withdrew from the organization, and Jos.
-Trowbridge was taken as a partner.
-
-Subsequently, through the death of Pell and the retirement of
-Trowbridge, the company was known as the Morris Minstrels, and as such
-they opened in St. Louis, Mo., November 6, 1867.
-
-About two years later the organization disbanded, and Lon and Billy
-Morris took up other pursuits.
-
-Both were comedians of ability; Lon was the tambourinist and Billy the
-bones of the troupe.
-
-
-CHARLEY MORRIS, who was at various times agent, performer and manager,
-began his theatrical career simultaneously with his brothers in 1845,
-and was associated with them practically until July 27, 1861, when,
-in conjunction with W. H. Brockway and John E. Taylor, he organized a
-company, opening at Gloucester, Mass.
-
-In 1863 Mr. Morris was associated in the management of the Morris
-Minstrels with Add Weaver; April 10, 1865, with Fred Wilson, he opened
-in St. Louis, Mo., a permanent minstrel company that was successfully
-run until the dissolution of the partnership, February, 1867.
-
-Mr. Morris subsequently conducted his own minstrel companies until
-about 1878, and about a year or so later retired from active management.
-
-Mr. Morris excelled as a banjoist.
-
-Lon Morris was born in Fort Erie, N. Y., May 15, 1830; he died in New
-York, May 6, 1882.
-
-Billy Morris was born in Rochester, N. Y., April 11, 1831; he died in
-Boston, Mass., October 11, 1878.
-
-Charles A. Morris was born in Rochester, N. Y., March 27, 1834; he is
-now a guest of the Actors Home in Staten Island, N. Y.
-
- * * * * *
-
-SAM SHARPLEY, NELSE SEYMOUR, JAMES UNSWORTH, JAMES BUDWORTH and DAN
-BRYANT--all died within a hundred days in 1875.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-“POP” REECE (Lewis M. Reece) was an old-time performer. As early as
-June 18, 1856, he was a member of Dave Reed’s Minstrels on the steamer
-“James Raymond.”
-
-He died in Brooklyn, N. Y., December 18, 1890; age about 60 years.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- HANK. GOODMAN
-
- MATT. PEEL
-
- W. W. NEWCOMB
-
- JOHNNY BOOKER
-
- FAYETTE WELCH
-
- NELSE. SEYMOUR
-
- JOHN A. MACK
-
- “PONY” MOORE
-
- NEIL. BRYANT
-
-THE OLD GUARD.]
-
-
-DAVE BRAHAM, whose catchy melodies did so much to make Harrigan
-and Hart’s series of plays so successful, was long in the minstrel
-business, and as early as May 13, 1862, played at the Academy of Music,
-New York.
-
-He was born in England, and died in New York City, April 11, 1905; age
-65 years.
-
-
-“YOUNG DAN EMMETT” (Harry Huntington), a comedian who was with several
-minstrel companies, died in Elmira, N. Y., July 15, 1861.
-
-
-DENNY GALLAGHER, one of the best known of black-face performers about
-fifty years ago, entered the profession about 1848, doing Irish songs
-and dances in white face.
-
-In conjunction with Andy Leavitt and John Mulligan, they formed a trio
-which for genuine black-face comedy has never been excelled. They
-played three years at the Melodeon in New York.
-
-Denny Gallagher was born in New York in 1830; he died in Philadelphia,
-November 23, 1868.
-
-
-MIKE MITCHELL was one of minstrelsy’s greatest dancers.
-
-He had his own minstrel company on the road in the 50’s, and had been
-associated with many first-class organizations.
-
-He died in Victoria, B. C., January 13, 1862; age 32 years.
-
-
-CHARLES KOPPITZ, a famous musician, who achieved prominence in other
-lines, was with George Christy’s Minstrels in California in 1858 in the
-capacity of musical director.
-
-He was born in Holstein, Germany; he died in St. Johns, N. B., June 22,
-1873; age 43 years.
-
-
-DAVE CARSON was another performer and manager who was best known
-abroad. He sailed for Australia in 1853, and for many years played in
-every section of that country.
-
-He returned to New York about 1869, and after appearing here for a
-while he again went abroad.
-
-He was born in New York about 1830; he was living as late as 1875.
-
-
-DAN HOLT, a well-known black-face performer in the South many years
-ago, died in New Orleans, La., October 10, 1867.
-
-
-TOM PRENDERGAST was a prominent tenor vocalist.
-
-He was one of the original members of Bryant’s Minstrels in New York,
-opening February 23, 1857. In 1864 he was with Hooley in Brooklyn, and
-had been associated in minstrel ventures with Cool. Burgess, Archie
-Hughes and D. C. La Rue.
-
-He retired about a year previous to his death, which occurred in Utica,
-N. Y., March 6, 1869; age 39 years.
-
-
-ALBERT JONES (Silcox) was a good comedian and general performer; in
-Boston and Chicago, he was especially well known, having been connected
-with prominent companies in those cities.
-
-He died in Boston, Mass., November 25, 1866; age 36 years.
-
-
-WILLIAM N. SMITH at the time of his death was considered one of the
-greatest bone players in minstrelsy.
-
-He had played many engagements with various companies. He was the first
-to give imitations of the snare drums with the bones.
-
-Owing to an accident, he was compelled to retire from the profession,
-which he did April 18, 1867. He died in New York, February 4, 1869.
-
-
-MIKE O’BRIEN, an old-time banjoist and ballad singer, who had been with
-Sanford’s and other minstrel companies, died at Algiers, La., April 28,
-1869.
-
-
-EDWIN HOLMES, a popular minstrel tenor, who was with Duprez and
-Green’s and later Duprez and Benedict’s Minstrels for about six years,
-commencing in 1862, died in Boston, Mass., July 11, 1879.
-
-
-NED GREENLAND was one of the best beloved characters in theatredom.
-Though many years dead, his praises are yet sung to-day. He was
-treasurer and business agent for Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y.,
-for several seasons.
-
-He died in Brooklyn, N. Y., August 4, 1883.
-
-
-MIKE KANANE, a famous dancer in the good old minstrel days, died in San
-Francisco, Cal., December 7, 1886.
-
-
-STEPHEN B. BALL was a famous vocalist of Ordway’s Aeolians in Boston as
-early as 1851; he retired about 1856, and became director of the choir
-of the Old School Street Church in that city. He was a fine singer and
-vocal teacher.
-
-He died in Boston, Mass., September 27, 1881.
-
-
-HARRY LEHR. Of this famous minstrel’s talents and abilities there was
-no divergence of opinion; manager, critic and performers were unanimous
-in their verdict that he never had a superior as a comedian. One
-manager, John L. Carncross, went further and declared that he never had
-an equal.
-
-His first professional appearance was with a small minstrel company in
-Camden, N. J., February 22, 1846.
-
-At the age of 16 he organized a troupe of his own.
-
-In 1852 he was with Kunkel’s Nightingales, and subsequently with
-Rumsey and Newcomb’s Minstrels, with whom he remained until the Spring
-of 1861. Subsequently he became a member of Hooley’s Minstrels in
-Brooklyn, N. Y., and in 1864 joined Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia and remained there for seven seasons.
-
-In 1871-72 he was with Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels, also in
-Philadelphia. In 1872 he re-joined Carncross and Dixey, and continued
-with them until November, 1875, when he made his final stage appearance.
-
-Mr. Lehr was thoroughly legitimate in each character he portrayed; he
-was the “darky” in life as well as color.
-
-Harry Lehr was born in Philadelphia, October 7, 1830; he died there
-September 10, 1881.
-
-
-DAVE REED. The career of this famous old-timer practically began with
-minstrelsy itself.
-
-He it was, with Dan Bryant, who did so much to popularize “Shoo
-Fly” more than forty years ago; and “Sally Come Up” will always be
-identified with his memory.
-
-But as a bone player, Dave Reed is probably best remembered; his
-imitations of drums, horses running and the like were wonderful; the
-art practically died with him. Mr. Reed’s career began about 1844 with
-a small traveling company. He played in and around New York for several
-seasons and later went West.
-
-June 18, 1856, Dave Reed’s Minstrels were the feature performance on
-board the steamer “James Raymond”, plying the Mississippi.
-
-Mr. Reed was with Hooley’s Minstrels in New York in 1861; subsequently
-with the latter in Brooklyn. He joined Bryant’s Minstrels in New York
-in 1863; he was there when Dan Bryant died, April 10, 1875. In between,
-about 1868, he was with Kelly and Leon, also in New York.
-
-About twenty-five years ago Dave Reed, his wife and four clever
-children made their appearance in vaudeville as the Reed Family; later
-they were known as the Reed Birds. He retired in 1903.
-
-Dave Reed, Jr., the popular song composer, is his son.
-
-Dave Reed was born in New York, November 18, 1830; he died there
-December 5, 1906.
-
-
-BILLY BIRCH was a name to conjure with for many years, especially in
-the Metropolis. He made his first appearance in New Hartford, N. Y., in
-1844 with a minstrel show, as an amateur.
-
-His initial professional appearance was with the Raymond Minstrels at
-Stamford, Conn., in 1846.
-
-Subsequently he was identified with many prominent organizations until
-1850, when he appeared first in New York with Fellowe’s Minstrels.
-
-When Wood and Christy were running two houses on Broadway, 444 and 472,
-Birch and Geo. Christy would simultaneously appear at their respective
-theatres in the first part, and would then proceed to the other theatre
-and finish their performance for the evening; this was about 1855. In
-1851, with Sam Wells and Dick Sliter, he opened in San Francisco with
-Birch, Wells and Sliter’s Minstrels, and remained six years; under the
-management of Tom Maguire.
-
-August 20, 1857, Mr. Birch sailed for New York, and a few days later
-was wrecked off the coast of Charleston, S. C.; he finally made his
-way to New York, where he played a brief engagement with Bryant’s
-Minstrels, commencing September 28.
-
-In February, 1858, Birch’s Minstrels opened in Chicago; subsequently
-he was one of the performers on the steamer “Banjo,” which plyed the
-Mississippi River. Afterwards Mr. Birch was associated in several
-minstrel ventures with J. B. Donniker, Joe Murphy, Sam Sharpley and
-Ben Cotton. With the latter he formed Birch and Cotton’s Minstrels in
-San Francisco in 1862; likewise nearly a quarter of a century later
-(July, 1886) did these old minstrels reunite, and the great California
-metropolis again saw Birch and Cotton’s Minstrels.
-
-September 15, 1864, Birch, Dave Wambold and Charley Backus opened in
-San Francisco as the San Francisco Minstrels, and in January, 1865, Wm.
-H. Bernard joined the organization. In March following they sailed for
-New York, and on May 8th, 1865, gave their first performance at 585
-Broadway; four days previous they appeared in Newark, N. J.
-
-The company continued at 585 until April 27, 1872; on August 28, 1872,
-as Birch, Wambold and Backus’ Minstrels, they opened at St. James Hall,
-the present site of the 5th Avenue Theatre; season of 1873-74 the
-company traveled, and on September 3, 1874, they opened at their own
-new theatre on Broadway, until when recently demolished, known as the
-Princess Theatre.
-
-[Illustration: ETHIOPIAN SERENADERS; 1847.
-
-Their full names were, respectively, Gilbert W. Pell, Geo. A.
-Harrington (not Geo. Christy), Wm. White, Moody Stanwood, Francis
-Germon.]
-
-They continued until 1880, when the company was known as Birch and
-Backus’ Minstrels, and remained as such until late in 1882, when it
-became Birch, Hamilton, and Backus’ Minstrels; this alliance was
-short lived, and the season of 1882-83 finished as Birch and Backus’
-Minstrels.
-
-August 27, 1883, Birch’s San Francisco Minstrels opened; December 3,
-“Jack” Haverly became a partner, but on December 29, 1883, the last
-performance of the famous San Francisco Minstrels was given in New York.
-
-In the fall of 1884 with Harry Kennedy he again launched Birch’s San
-Francisco Minstrels, but lasted only a few weeks; in November, 1886, he
-returned to his “old home” as a member of Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels,
-for a short sojourn. In 1889 with Frank Moran he organized Birch and
-Moran’s Minstrels, and on July 17, 1890, he began his last minstrel
-engagement with Wm. Henry Rice’s World’s Fair Minstrels.
-
-Birch was a typical comedian of the old school of minstrelsy.
-
-Billy Birch was born in Utica, N. Y., February 26, 1831; he died in New
-York City, April 20, 1897.
-
-
-CHARLES BACKUS, of the famous San Francisco Minstrels “quartette,” and
-one of the principal comedians of the organization, achieved wide fame
-for his impersonations of prominent actors, in which he was an adept.
-
-He went to California in 1852, and two years later organized Backus’
-Minstrels there; in 1855 he took the company to Australia, and a few
-years later organized Horn and Backus’ Minstrels; in 1859 he again went
-to Australia, and appeared as a negro clown in Burton’s Circus.
-
-He returned to San Francisco in 1861, and after playing several
-engagements there, on September 15, 1864, was one of the organizers of
-Birch, Wambold and Backus’ Minstrels; his career from that time until
-his death was linked with that of Billy Birch.
-
-Mr. Backus was married to Leo Hudson, the famous equestrienne; he was
-divorced in March, 1866; subsequently he married Miss Kate Newton, the
-well-known actress.
-
-On October 17, 1876, in Philadelphia, he married Miss Tizzie Mason.
-
-Charles Backus was born in Rochester, N. Y., in 1831; he died in New
-York City, June 21, 1883.
-
-
-DAVE WAMBOLD, universally conceded as minstrelsy’s greatest balladist,
-made his first appearance with a small minstrel company in 1849; his
-New York debut was made with Donaldson’s Minstrels four years later; he
-subsequently appeared with Charley White’s Minstrels in the same city
-for two years.
-
-In August, 1857, he opened with Raynor and Pierce’s Minstrels in
-London, England, and remained in Europe with various organizations for
-several years.
-
-In addition to being a remarkable singer, it is not generally known,
-but nevertheless a fact, that Mr. Wambold was the first performer to do
-a Dutch part in black-face; his dialect was one of the best.
-
-September 15, 1864, he organized with Birch and Backus the San
-Francisco Minstrels, opening in New York in May, 1865; he continued
-with the organization until May 1, 1880, when owing to ill health, he
-retired from minstrelsy, at Holyoke, Mass.
-
-Mr. Wambold married Miss Isabella Young in Philadelphia, April 25, 1859.
-
-Dave Wambold was born in Elizabethtown, N. J., April, 1836; he died in
-New York City, November 10, 1889.
-
- * * * * *
-
-Tom Lewis says that when making the parade in Lynchburg, Va., about ten
-or twelve years ago, a “rube” asked him (Lewis) what “society” it was.
-“Sons of Poor Parents,” replied Lewis.
-
-Billy West, who happened to overhear the retort, also said something.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-WM. H. BERNARD (White) was the greatest interlocutor, or middle-man,
-that minstrelsy has ever known.
-
-He is credited with having organized the first minstrel company in San
-Francisco; this was in August, 1849; performances were in the Parker
-House, and patrons gladly paid $5.00 per ticket for the privilege of
-seeing the minstrels. “Those were the happy days.”
-
-In the winter of 1849 he made a trip to the Sandwich Islands as one of
-the “New York Serenaders,” and in 1850 he went to Sydney, Australia,
-and gave the first minstrel performance that the big island ever
-saw; subsequently he went to India, and was the first to introduce
-minstrelsy there.
-
-In January, 1865, he joined Birch, Wambold and Backus with their
-company in San Francisco, and until the Spring of 1872, when he retired
-permanently from the profession he so long and ably graced, he was
-associated in partnership with those gentlemen.
-
-William H. Bernard was born in New York City, in 1830; he died there
-January 5, 1890.
-
-
-CHARLES A. MORNINGSTAR, a well-known agent and manager of the 60’s,
-and proprietor of Morningstar’s Minstrels in 1863, was murdered near
-Mobile, Ala., December 27, 1871.
-
-
-FRANK KENT was one of the early female impersonators, or wench dancers,
-as these performers were originally known.
-
-In December, 1842, at the Franklin Theatre in New York, Master Kent
-appeared in a variety entertainment.
-
-For many years he appeared with the various minstrel companies, notably
-Howard Burlesque Opera Troupe; San Franciscos in New York; Duprez and
-Benedict, in Philadelphia; Duprez and Green’s; Arlington, Cotton and
-Kemble’s in Chicago, and Morris Brothers, Pell and Trowbridge, in
-Boston. In all probability his last appearance in minstrelsy was with
-Wm. Henry Rice’s Company, commencing July 17, 1890.
-
-Frank Kent was born in Salem, Mass.; he died in Cooperstown, N. Y.,
-August 15, 1906; age about 75 years.
-
-
-THOMAS P. BROWER, a brother of Frank Brower, one of the organizers of
-the first minstrel show, and himself a performer of ability, died in
-Philadelphia, March 15, 1867; age 37 years.
-
-
-DUKE MORGAN, an old-time violinist and musician of the real early days
-of minstrelsy, died in New York City in October, 1881.
-
-
-OTTO BURBANK was one of the best jig dancers in the early minstrel
-days, likewise a good comedian. He was prominently identified with
-some of the best minstrel organizations, notably Collins’ “Christy”
-Minstrels, in London, England, in 1862.
-
-He died at Peoria, Ill., February 13, 1882.
-
-
-HARRY PELL, an old-time black-face comedian, who was an excellent stump
-orator, played several minstrel engagements, notably with the Morris
-company in 1863.
-
-He died in New York City, June 1, 1866.
-
-
-JOHN CLUSKEY, at one time rated as one of the best dancers of his day,
-died at Albany, N. Y., September 17, 1864.
-
-
-ALEXANDER ZANFRETTA, the famous pantomimist, played important minstrel
-engagements, notably with Simmons and Slocum’s, in Philadelphia, and
-with Haverly.
-
-He died in Brooklyn, N. Y., May 14, 1899.
-
-
-CHARLES H. DUPREZ was one of the great managers of early minstrelsy.
-
-In 1852 he made his _entre_ into the profession at New Orleans, La.,
-with the company that was afterwards known as Carle, Duprez and
-Green’s Minstrels. In 1858 the organization was known as Duprez and
-Green’s, and it remained as such until 1865 at Green Bay, Wis., when
-Mr. Green retiring, Lew Benedict purchased his interest, and Duprez
-and Benedict’s Minstrels were organized; Mr. Benedict retired from
-the company in 1876; Mr. Duprez continued on with the same trade-mark
-until about 1885, when retiring from minstrelsy he went into the hotel
-business in Lowell, Mass.
-
-Charles H. Duprez was born in Paris, France, March 13, 1830; he died in
-Providence, R. I., August 31, 1902.
-
-
-J. A. BASQUIN, a well-known minstrel singer, who was also known at
-various times as J. J. Roberts and J. Waterman, was a prominent member
-of Buckley’s Serenaders in the 60’s and early 70’s, also with Unsworth
-and Eugene in England in 1868.
-
-J. A. Basquin was born in France; he died in Brooklyn, N. Y., January
-27, 1872; age 42 years.
-
-
-JOHN SIMPSON, prominent for many years as business manager of Bryant’s
-Minstrels, in New York City, died November 15, 1881.
-
-
-WM. T. BRYANT (O’Brien), a brother of Dan, Neil and Jerry, a mediocre
-performer, was with Bryant’s Minstrels in New York at the time of his
-death, September 23, 1865.
-
-
-JOE BROWN, one of the world’s greatest jig dancers, made his first
-appearance at Albany, N. Y., in 1844. His first New York engagement
-was in the fall of 1852; August 3, 1857, he opened with “Christy’s”
-Minstrels in London, England, remaining with, them until about 1860,
-when he joined Nish’s “Christy” Minstrels, opening in Cape Town, South
-Africa, August 20, 1862. Prior to the opening he and the company were
-shipwrecked, losing everything except his clothes; a handsome silver
-belt he won from Dick. Sliter in 1856 was amongst the things lost.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- J. A. BASQUIN
-
- A. BAMFORD
-
- FRANK GIRARD
-
- BILLY BARRY
-
- “LITTLE MAC”
-
- BILLY RICE
-
-“MERRY MINSTREL MEN.”]
-
-Returning to England in 1863, he organized Joe Brown’s “Christy”
-Minstrels, visiting Egypt and India; returning to London, opened at St.
-James Hall, June 11, 1866. In 1868 he paid a brief visit to the United
-States, then returned to England.
-
-Joe Brown was born in Buffalo, N. Y., January 2, 1830; he died in
-Glasgow, Scotland, October 25, 1883.
-
-
-C. D. ABBOTT was a prominent musician of the early days of minstrelsy,
-when those performers were artists in their respective lines, and each
-one was a soloist.
-
-He died at La Salle, Ill., May 20, 1864.
-
- * * * * *
-
-WM. HENRY RICE made his first minstrel appearance September 19, 1859;
-“Daddy” Rice died exactly one year later.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-BILLY BLAIR, the old-time general minstrel performer who was
-with Christy’s Minstrels as early as May, 1856, also many other
-organizations, was a good “Bob Ridley” and end man. He died in
-Brooklyn, N. Y., January 19, 1888.
-
-
-JOHNNY BOOKER (Sam. Roberts), was one of the early minstrel comedians
-and managers.
-
-In the middle 50’s he toured with Booker and Evart’s Minstrels;
-subsequently Booker and Sliter’s and intermittently with Johnny
-Booker’s Minstrels. In the early days he made famous a song that had
-great vogue called “Meet Johnny Booker at the Bowling Green.” He was a
-member of Dave Reed’s Minstrels on board the Steamer “James Raymond,”
-June 18, 1856. Among the notable minstrel organizations he was with
-were Hooley’s, in Brooklyn, N. Y., 1862; Lloyd and Bidaux’s, 1867, and
-Arlington’s, in 1870.
-
-Johnny Booker was born in Bowling Green, Ky., October, 1830; he died at
-Dayton, Ohio, October 25, 1898.
-
-
-HENRY WOOD was one of the most famous of New York City minstrel
-managers. He entered the theatrical field at 444 Broadway, in 1851,
-with Jerome B. Fellowe, and conducted Wood and Fellowe’s Minstrels
-until February, 1852, when he had the show to himself.
-
-Wood’s Minstrels continued there until October 31, 1853, when he formed
-an alliance with George Christy, and as Wood and Christy’s Minstrels
-they flourished until May, 1858.
-
-“444” burned down December 2, 1854, the company then going shortly
-after to “472” Broadway.
-
-Later, for a brief period, both houses were run simultaneously.
-
-October 1, 1855, “444” reopened, and on October 31, 1857, they moved
-to their new Marble Palace, 561-63 Broadway; this house was closed
-September 3, 1859. Nine days later Mr. Wood returned to “444,” where
-he remained practically until July 7, 1862, when he moved his company
-to 514 Broadway.
-
-Wood’s Minstrels ceased as an institution about 1866.
-
-Mr. Wood was a brother of Fernando Wood, once Mayor of New York.
-
-Henry Wood is _said_ to have died about twenty-eight years ago; he is
-also said to be living.
-
-
-PETE LANE was a great jig and a good general dancer. He was with
-Sanford’s Minstrels in Philadelphia in 1856; he died there June 27,
-1858.
-
-
-CHARLES NOBLE, the well-known minstrel bass singer who was with
-Thatcher, Primrose and West’s, and other well known minstrel
-organizations, died in New York City, June 8, 1892; age 62 years.
-
-
-BOB SMITH, the old-time minstrel performer, was associated with many of
-the best performers of his day.
-
-As a tambourine manipulator he achieved particular prominence, and
-ranked with the best.
-
-He died at St. Johnland, Staten Island, N. Y., April 20, 1900; age
-about 70 years.
-
-
-BILLY WRIGHT, an old-time comedian, had some prominence as a “knife
-thrower.” His chief claim to fame lies in the fact that he was
-instrumental in obtaining an opportunity for the embryonic talents of
-Francis Wilson to be given recognition, which he did about 1865.
-
-He died in Philadelphia, March 10, 1879.
-
-
-MATT. PEEL (Flannery). There are few who are alive to-day who remember
-the performances of this sterling young versatile performer, whose
-first professional appearance was made in New York in 1840. A few years
-later he joined Campbell’s Minstrels, the only organization at that
-time bearing that name.
-
-He continued with this company several years, and on July 17, 1850, in
-company with James Norris, Jos. D. Murphy, and Luke West, organized
-another company; with the exception of the first named, all were
-performers. Subsequently and for a few years the organization was known
-as Murphy, West and Peel’s Minstrels, and later Matt. Peel’s Minstrels,
-by which it was known until the death of Mr. Peel.
-
-Mr. Peel was one of the first minstrel performers to sing an Irish song
-on the end.
-
-Matt. Peel was born in New York, January 15, 1830; he died in Buffalo,
-N. Y., May 4, 1859.
-
-
-CHARLEY O’NEILL, a well-known comedian who was with Unsworth’s
-Minstrels in 1861, and subsequently with Hooley in Brooklyn, N. Y.,
-committed suicide by drowning, in St. Louis, Mo., July 21, 1863.
-
-
-JOHN HOOLEY, a brother of the famous manager, R. M. Hooley, ran a
-minstrel company in Brooklyn, N. Y., in 1873.
-
-He died there April 12, 1891.
-
-
-MERT. SEXTON was prominent as a comedian and dancer; his chief fame
-rested in his ability to dance the “Essence of Old Virginia.” He played
-with many famous organizations, notably Matt. Peel’s in 1858; Fox and
-Worden’s in 1859, and Collins’ “Christy” Minstrels in 1862; the two
-latter companies were in England.
-
-Mert. Sexton is said to have died in Long Island City, N. Y., in May,
-1866.
-
-
-SETH HOWARD, one of the old-time interlocutors and straight men, who
-was one of the original Bryant’s Minstrels at Mechanics Hall in New
-York City in 1857, died at Hornellsville, N. Y., February 11, 1860.
-
-
-GEORGE LANGDON, an aged darky impersonator and singer, and who sang
-duets with John L. Carncross in Philadelphia before Carncross joined
-Sanford’s Minstrels in that city, died at Pawtucket, Mass., May 12,
-1859.
-
-
-HARRY EVARTS, who was associated with Johnny Booker with Booker and
-Evarts’ Minstrels in the 50’s, and was considered a good general
-performer, was in later years prominently identified with several
-companies in an executive capacity.
-
-He was killed in a wreck near Hamilton, Canada, April 28, 1889.
-
-
-DICK (Richard) SILVER, was an early member of the famous Morris Bros.,
-Pell and Trowbridge’s Minstrels in the 60’s.
-
-At the time of his death he had been in the theatrical profession about
-seventy years.
-
-Mr. Silver was born in Groton, Vt., he died in Traverse City, Mich.,
-October 10, 1909.
-
-
-LEW RATTLER, long associated in the early days of minstrelsy in
-California, and a member of an organization of the same name in 1859,
-was a comedian of merit.
-
-He died in San Francisco, Cal., March 27, 1905.
-
-
-THEODORE GUSTAVE BIDAUX who ranked with the great baritone singers of
-minstrelsy, came to America in 1858, and appeared with much success
-with the following well-known burnt cork organizations--Sanford’s, in
-Philadelphia; Lloyd and Bidaux’; Duprez and Green’s; George Christy’s;
-Manning’s; Haverly’s, and Wm. Henry Rice’s in Cincinnati.
-
-Mr. Bidaux married a Mrs. Ayleen in 1867.
-
-Theodore Gustave Bidaux was born near Paris, France, March 12, 1830; he
-died at Hatboro, Pa., March 5, 1886.
-
-
-SAM SHARPLEY (Sharpe) was one of the most famous minstrel comedians and
-banjoists of his day. He first appeared professionally at the age of 16.
-
-In 1858 he went to Sanford’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, where he became
-a great favorite. In 1860 he associated himself with John L. Carncross
-in Carncross and Sharpley’s Minstrels; that same year he also was
-partner with Birch and Sharpley’s Minstrels.
-
-In the Fall of 1862 he launched his famous “Iron Clads” Minstrels.
-From 1865 to 1867 he was associated with Tony Pastor in the management
-of what is now known as the People’s Theatre in New York. In 1872 he
-formed an alliance with Swaine Buckley, and subsequently with Sheridan
-and Mack in minstrel organization bearing their names. He was a natural
-wit and a great entertainer.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- FRANK CUSHMAN
-
- HARRY C. SHUNK
-
- NAT. HAINES
-
- CHAS. J. STINE
-
-A QUARTETTE OF CORKERS.]
-
-Sam Sharpley was born in Philadelphia, June 13, 1831; he died in
-Providence, R. I., January 1, 1875.
-
- * * * * *
-
-HARRY LEIGHTON, long and favorably known as a vocalist, did an end with
-Vogel’s Minstrels, April 16, 1908.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-ARCHIE HUGHES (Arthur Hughes), was one of the biggest favorites of
-Hooley’s great minstrel company in Brooklyn, N. Y., many years ago.
-
-There is a difference of opinion as to when and where he made his first
-appearance, but it is certain he was with Sam Sanford’s Minstrels,
-traveling in 1859; and equally certain that one evening during a
-performance with that company, a man in the audience became so enthused
-with Hughes’ dancing, that he took his watch from his pocket and gave
-it to him (Hughes); he finished the season at Sanford’s Theatre in
-Philadelphia in the Spring of 1860. About June following he joined
-Mrs. Matt Peel’s Minstrels; subsequently returning to Sanford’s in
-Philadelphia.
-
-September 29, 1862, he opened with Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, at
-the initial performance of the organization.
-
-In November, 1864, he began an engagement with Wood’s Minstrels in New
-York, and the following year was one of the proprietors of (Cool.)
-Burgess, (Tom) Prendergast, Hughes and (D. C.) La Rue’s Minstrels.
-
-May 28, 1866, he returned to Hooley’s, and at the ending of the season
-of 1868-69, he went to England with Smith and Taylor’s Minstrels.
-
-September 12, 1870, with Fayette Welch, and Cool. White, he opened
-Welch, Hughes and White’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, on the site now
-occupied by a large carpet store; the organization continued there for
-several months. In 1873 Mr. Hughes was with Sharpley, Sheridan and
-Mack’s Company, and two years later he rejoined Hooley in Brooklyn.
-
-In December, 1880, he was a member of Kyle’s “Christy” Minstrels in
-Boston, and in September, 1881, he began his last engagement with
-Leavitt’s Gigantean Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Hughes was a splendid comedian and a fine dancer; he specialized
-singing Irish songs on the end.
-
-Archie Hughes was born in Albany, N. Y., about 1830; he died in
-Buffalo, N. Y., October 18, 1881.
-
-
-P. B. ISAACS was one of the early minstrel leaders, and a fine
-musician. He was one of the original members of Bryant’s Minstrels in
-New York at their opening, February 23, 1857.
-
-He was born in London, England, 1831; he died in San Francisco,
-September 6, 1865.
-
-
-WILLIAM BLAKENEY. The distinction of being the oldest minstrel leader
-in all probability belongs to William Blakeney, who made his first
-appearance with the Western Minstrels, an amateur organization in
-Pittsburg, Pa., in 1847.
-
-He was five years with the Yankee Robinson Circus.
-
-Late in 1860 he joined William Christy’s Minstrels, and in the Spring
-of 1861, went to Europe with Rumsey and Newcomb’s Minstrels.
-
-Subsequently he was with Morris and Wilson’s Minstrels in St. Louis,
-and continued with them four years. In Philadelphia he was with Simmons
-and Slocum’s Minstrels two years. February 2, 1878, he sailed with
-Kelly and Leon and their minstrel company for Australia; he continued
-with them until their dissolution, after which he was associated with
-the Victoria Loftus Troupe.
-
-Mr. Blakeney’s most important engagement was with the San Francisco
-Minstrels in New York, with whom he remained five years.
-
-William Blakeney was born in Elfin, Ireland, October 30, 1831.
-
-
-BILLY LAWRENCE, an old-timer who had his own minstrel show in Chicago
-as early as 1858, and for many years after appeared with other
-companies, died in Chicago, Ill., August 21, 1900; age 69 years.
-
-
-J. W. MCANDREWS (Walter James McAndrews), famous for many years as the
-“Watermelon Man,” the latter appellation being the title of the sketch
-he performed for about three decades with astonishing success.
-
-His first professional appearance was made in his native city at the
-Richmond Theatre, at the age of 13, in black-face and singing that
-early favorite, “Jim Along Josie.”
-
-Subsequently and for many years he did “nigger” acts in circuses and
-small minstrel companies.
-
-About 1857 he joined Buckley’s Serenaders, remained with them for
-a considerable period, and went to England with them in 1860. Mr.
-McAndrews played sundry engagements until he joined Kelly and Leon’s
-Minstrels. About 1866, while with that company in Cincinnati, “Pastimes
-on the Levee” was first put on; it was not until three or four years
-later that the skit got the title that made it so popular; Dan Bryant
-did the christening, and McAndrews played three years with Bryant’s
-Minstrels in New York.
-
-He went to England with Haverly’s Mastodons, and opened at Her
-Majesty’s Theatre, London, July 31, 1880; subsequently, July 17, 1882,
-he played at the Pavillion in the English Metropolis, opening with
-great success.
-
-The succeeding years of his career were spent with the many prominent
-minstrel and variety organizations, as well as playing innumerable
-engagements in the variety theatres.
-
-J. W. McAndrews was born in Richmond, Va., November, 1831; he died at
-Elgin, Ill., December 29, 1899.
-
-
-JAMES BUDWORTH, in addition to being a great minstrel, was a good
-actor. His debut was made at the Park Theatre, in New York City, in
-1848, as vocalist and mimic.
-
-May 26, 1860, James Budworth, Frank Budworth (his son, who afterwards
-developed into one of the best Chinese impersonators) and his brother,
-W. S. Budworth, appeared with Wood’s Minstrels, at the same time.
-
-One year prior to this, he was the principal comedian with George
-Christy’s Minstrels in New York, Christy had been enjoined from
-appearing.
-
-In 1862 he was with Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Minstrels; September, 1864, found
-him with Hooley’s, in Brooklyn, N. Y.
-
-Monday, August 27, 1866, with his brother William, he opened the 5th
-Avenue Theatre (until recently, when it was demolished, known as the
-Madison Square Theatre), New York City; they remained several months.
-
-Mr. Budworth was with Sam Sharpley’s Minstrels in the Summer of 1869,
-and in September, 1872, he became a member of Frank Moran’s Minstrels
-in Philadelphia; he was likewise with several of the other prominent
-companies of his time. He also played the title role in “Pomp” and star
-roles in other plays.
-
-Mr. Budworth was best known for his imitations of actors, in which he
-had no peer.
-
-As a banjoist he gained renown, and played with equal proficiency the
-Japanese and Chinese fiddle.
-
-As a Dutch comedian he was great; his John Schmidt in “The Persecuted
-Dutchman” at the Park Theatre, Brooklyn, N. Y., in 1865, received
-lavish praise from press and public.
-
-James Budworth was born in Philadelphia, December 24, 1831; he died in
-New York City, March 15, 1875.
-
-
-DICK BERTHELON, an old-time black-face performer, appeared mostly in
-variety houses for many years; he was good in the old-time “nigger”
-acts, and was proficient as a manipulator of the bones and tambourine.
-
-He died in Brooklyn, N. Y., September 25, 1891; age 60 years.
-
-
-BILLY BOYD was a capable minstrel performer of the old school; he was
-with Hunt and Company’s Minstrels in 1855, and was very well-known in
-Philadelphia, where he was born in 1831; he died in New York, April 21,
-1869.
-
-
-R. M. CARROLL, or “Dick” as he is better known, or “Master Marks” as
-he was originally known to the profession, probably has the greatest
-number of years of theatrical service of any one in minstrelsy.
-
-Mr. Carroll is best remembered as a dancer, and he was one of the
-world’s greatest; but in his early career he was a splendid wench
-performer; he was the third one to do “Lucy Long”; a great feature of
-old-time minstrelsy.
-
-Mr. Carroll’s first public appearance was at Tinkham Hall on Grand
-Street, New York City; the occasion was the benefit of an elderly Irish
-lady, long since departed--this was in 1837. For many years he danced
-at balls and parties. About 1845 he first appeared professionally
-at the Bowery Amphitheatre, New York City, in a circus, and shortly
-after this at the Bowery Theatre he blacked up for the first time with
-“Daddy” Rice, playing in “Bone Squash.”
-
-The year following he played his initial minstrel engagement with
-Charley White’s Company, also in New York; he remained with White
-several seasons.
-
-In 1854 he was with Buckley’s Serenaders in New York; in 1858 with
-Sniffen’s Campbell’s Minstrels, likewise in the metropolis.
-
-February 14, 1859, he made his first appearance as a member of Morris
-Bros., Pell and Trowbridge’s Minstrels in Boston, where he became a
-great favorite, remaining about three years.
-
-In his long career Mr. Carroll played with many prominent minstrel
-organizations, notably Kelly and Leon’s; at Hooley’s, at the latter’s
-theatre in Brooklyn, N. Y., with little Dick, his son, he began an
-engagement there March 14, 1870.
-
-Subsequently with Dick, Jr., and Dick’s brothers, Edwin and Bennie,
-they played for several years in the principal variety theatres of the
-country.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- JOHN QUEEN
-
- MRS. ARTHUR L. GUY
- In Select Company
-
- JAS. CUMMINGS
-
- JOHN PEASLEY
-
- JAS.--SANFORD AND WILSON--CHAS.
- (_Portraits Reversed._)
-
- WM. HENRY RICE]
-
-In September, 1878, he opened Carroll’s Comique, in Brooklyn, N. Y.,
-and several weeks later, with his sons, began an engagement with Cotton
-and Wagner’s Minstrels. It may be interesting to know that Mr. Carroll,
-and the late J. K. (Fritz) Emmett, had a minstrel show once; Carroll
-and Emmett’s Minstrels opened at De Bar’s Opera House, St. Louis, Mo.,
-June 1, 1868.
-
-R. M. Carroll and John Queen (afterwards Queen and West), were the
-first to do a double clog dance, about 1862. Mr. Carroll likewise
-originated the famous song “Me Father Sold Charcoal.”
-
-His sons, Bennie and Edwin, died in New York City, September 18, 1877,
-and at Denver, Colo., March 5, 1905, respectively.
-
-Mr. Carroll played the variety houses for several years with his well
-known dancing specialty “Mortar and Bricks.”
-
-R. M. Carroll was born in New York City April 10, 1832.
-
-
-W. L. HOBBS, the well known minstrel “leader” was associated with Frank
-Moran’s Minstrels in Philadelphia in 1872; he was also with Carncross
-and Dixey’s Company in the same city, and for several seasons was
-connected with Bryant’s Minstrels in New York.
-
-W. L. Hobbs died in Philadelphia, July 12, 1874; age 45 years.
-
-
-BOB HALL, who had been connected with many minstrel companies during
-his long career, and who had also been with Harrigan and Hart, died in
-Baltimore, Md., June 29, 1882; age 50 years.
-
-
-ANDREW WYATT, an old-time minstrel leader, who was with Sanford’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia as early as 1856, and for eight years prior
-to his death with Whitmore and Clark’s Minstrels, died in Salem, Mass.,
-August 5, 1874; age 41 years.
-
-
-A. M. HERNANDEZ was famous as a pantomimist and acrobat; but it was as
-a guitarist and vocalist he was best known; he was capable of playing
-practically every known instrument.
-
-In 1852 he was with Hayworth and Horton’s variety show doing a knife
-throwing act. The following year he was with Parrow’s Minstrels and
-subsequently with Matt. Peel’s and Sniffen’s Campbell’s Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Hernandez was born in Havana, Cuba; he died in Montevideo, Uruguay,
-S. A., October 25, 1874.
-
-
-J. B. STUDLEY, the famous old legitimate actor, played, “Pomp, or
-Cudijos Cave” in New York, April 11, 1864, and in the same city played
-Uncle Tom, in Uncle Tom’s Cabin, October 20, 1879.
-
-Mr. Studley was born in Boston, Mass., October 8, 1832; he died in New
-York, August 6, 1910.
-
-
-JOHN S. COX, the old-time minstrel leader of Simmons and Slocum’s in
-Philadelphia, and other well known companies, died in August, 1902; age
-70 years.
-
-
-JOHN P. SMITH, familiarly known as “Cully” Smith, began his
-professional career as a member of old Joe Sweeney’s Company in 1845;
-he was then Master Smith.
-
-In 1850 he was with the “Old Dominion” Minstrels, playing the bones,
-under the name of “John P. Weston”; subsequently he was with Parrow’s
-Minstrels, and Smith and Hernandez Minstrels. Later he was identified
-with the Buckley’s, and George Christy’s Minstrels in an executive
-capacity, and of recent years was associated in a like manner with
-several prominent legitimate attractions.
-
-John P. Smith was born in Richmond, Va., August 3, 1832; he died in New
-York City, November 12, 1897.
-
- * * * * *
-
-SWAYNE BUCKLEY, ROLIN HOWARD, EDWIN HOLMES, BILLY HART and G. W. H.
-GRIFFIN, all died within thirty days in 1879.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-MRS. J. T. HUNTLEY was the grand-daughter of the late Colonel Jacob
-Deems, a prominent figure of old Baltimore.
-
-She became the wife of the famous Matt. Peel just one year before
-the latter’s death; subsequently she married J. T. Huntley, another
-old-time minstrel.
-
-After Matt. Peel’s demise, Mrs. Peel, a few months later re-organized
-the company, and as Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Minstrels, she conducted its
-affairs successfully for several seasons.
-
-As Mrs. Peel she also had the additional distinction of being the first
-woman that ever sold tickets for a minstrel show; this was more than
-fifty years ago, when the companies played in halls, and carried their
-own treasurers.
-
-Mrs. Huntley is living, active, and is happy in the thought that she is
-earning her own livelihood.
-
-Mrs. J. T. Huntley was born in Baltimore, Md., August 4, 1832.
-
-
-BOB HART (James M. Sutherland) famous as a stump speaker, made his
-professional debut at “444” Broadway, New York, in 1859; prior to this
-he had been a Methodist minister.
-
-In 1863 with Lew Simmons he was proprietor of Hart and Simmons’
-Minstrels; he was also prominently identified with the San Francisco
-Minstrels in New York; Bryant’s, in the same city; Emerson and
-Manning’s in Chicago, and subsequently, in 1871, with Manning’s
-Minstrels, also in Chicago.
-
-His last appearance in minstrelsy was with Dan Bryant’s company in
-1875. In 1878 he again took up evangelical work and continued at it
-until his death.
-
-Bob Hart was born in New York State, February 9, 1832; he died
-(suicide) in New York City, April 6, 1888.
-
-
-JOHN SIVORI (Wheeler) who was one of the original Bryant’s Minstrels
-of February 23, 1857, in New York City, and was for several years
-associated with them; gave up the profession many years ago, and is
-said to have become a doctor or dentist.
-
-He was reported dead about ten years back.
-
-
-JOHN B. DONNIKER was one of the oldest as well as the best “leaders” in
-minstrelsy.
-
-He was associated with many of the famous organizations, including some
-of his own. In 1854 he was “leader” with Ordway’s Aeolians in Boston;
-subsequently he went to California, and while there was one of the
-proprietors of Birch (Billy) and Donniker’s Minstrels, 1859.
-
-In 1861 he was with “Eugene” and Unsworth, proprietor of Unsworth’s
-Minstrels. In 1862 he had a half interest in Arlington (Billy) and
-Donniker’s Minstrels; and in 1865 he was associated with Burgess
-(“Cool”), Prendergast (Tom), Hughes (Archie) and Donniker’s Minstrels.
-
-He was with Morris Bros., Pell and Trowbridge, in Boston, and with
-Bryant’s, and Wood and Christy’s in New York; likewise for several
-seasons was he intermittently with the famous San Francisco Minstrels,
-also in New York.
-
-In the late 70’s he was engaged as leader at the London Theatre, New
-York City, remaining a few seasons.
-
-Of late years, having lost the use of his arm, he took pupils, giving
-lessons on the violin.
-
-John B. Donniker died at Penn Yan, N. Y., July 17, 1902; age 69 years.
-
-
-TONY PASTOR (Antonio Pastorius), during his long career as manager in
-New York City, occupied three different theatres, each of which had
-previously been used by a permanent minstrel company.
-
-Mr. Pastor’s early days, about 1846-47, were spent as a minstrel.
-
-Tony Pastor was born in New York, May 28, 1832; he died at Elmhurst, L.
-I., N. Y., August 26, 1908.
-
-
-“HANK” (Azro) WHITE, a famous old-time minstrel, had been in the
-profession about forty years; twenty-five of which were spent with
-Whitmore and Clark’s Minstrels.
-
-He died in Windsor, Vt., February 14, 1900; age 68 years.
-
-
-WALTER BIRCH (Smith), was a well-known tenor vocalist with Christy’s
-Minstrels in 1862 and 1865; in 1863 he was with Horn and Newcomb’s
-Minstrels. He was likewise associated with several operatic companies.
-
-He died in Jersey City, N. J., January 29, 1880; age 47 years.
-
-
-JOHNNY PELL (Gavin), a prominent young comedian, spent the best part
-of his professional career in Boston. His first appearance was with
-Charley White’s company in New York in the early 50’s.
-
-In 1854 he went to Boston, and became a member of Ordway’s Aeolians,
-remaining until 1857, when in conjunction with Lon and Billy Morris
-and J. T. Huntley, they organized a company bearing their names; about
-two years later it was known as Morris Bros., Pell and Trowbridge’s
-Minstrels, and as such continued until the demise of Mr. Pell.
-
-Two days prior to his death, he married Miss Moore, of Boston.
-
-Johnny Pell died in Boston, Mass., January 24, 1866; age 33 years. He
-was born in New York.
-
-
-GEO. M. CLARK entered the field of minstrelsy about 1860; subsequently
-with his partner he organized Whitmore and Clark’s Minstrels, and
-traveled successfully for many years.
-
-He was born in 1833, and died in Felchville, Vt., June 6, 1885.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- BYRON CHRISTY
-
- HUGHEY DOUGHERTY
-
- JAMES UNSWORTH
-
- HARRY PELL
-
- FRANK MORAN
-
- BOB. HART
-
- BILLY RICHARDSON
-
- FRANK BELL
-
- LEW BENEDICT
-
-ORATORS OF THE OLD DAYS.]
-
-
-CHARLES PETRIE was one of the old time banjoists, and one of the first
-to open a variety theatre in Chicago.
-
-He was associated with the minstrel companies of Arlington, Kelly, Leon
-and Donniker, Lew Benedict’s and others.
-
-He was born in Lockport, N. Y., in 1833; he died in Dallas, Texas,
-November 12, 1881.
-
-
-J. E. GREEN was known as “Mocking Bird Green,” from the fact that he
-was so long identified with singing of the song of that name, and
-whistling imitations of same. He entered the profession about 1856,
-as a member of the minstrel firm of Shorey, Carle, Duprez and Green;
-subsequently it became Duprez and Green’s Minstrels, and continued
-until 1865 under that trade-mark, when he sold his interest to Lew
-Benedict. He subsequently had several companies of his own and was
-associated in another with “Hop Light Loo” Charley Gardner.
-
-At the time of his death he was musical director with Archie White’s
-“Duprez and Benedict’s” Minstrels.
-
-J. E. Green was born in Portsmouth, N. H., April 9, 1833; he died in
-New York, November 30, 1886.
-
-
-BILLY WRAY, the father of Mrs. John Wild, was one of the most versatile
-of performers; as an end man and stump speaker he excelled; he was
-likewise a clever magician.
-
-With his wife (Louise Payne) and daughter, Ada, already referred to, he
-traveled in 1862, giving an entire performance by themselves.
-
-Billy Wray was born in New York, July 25, 1833; he was lost in the
-wreck of the Steamer “Evening Star” between New York and New Orleans,
-October 3, 1866.
-
-
-E. FREEMAN DIXEY--his was a household word in Philadelphia, where
-practically his whole professional career, and the major portion of his
-life was spent.
-
-His first engagement was in Boston, at the age of eighteen;
-subsequently he went to Philadelphia, and opened there at Cartee’s
-Lyceum, the present site of the 11th Street Opera House, with the
-Julien Serenaders, December 4, 1854.
-
-On April 23, 1855, the house was opened as Sanford’s Opera House, by
-Sam Sanford, and Mr. Dixey was a member of the company, and continued
-with Sanford until the latter drew away from its management, April
-14, 1862, when Mr. Dixey and Mr. Carncross opened it under the name
-of Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels; Robert Simpson was the financial
-man. The firm of Carncross and Dixey continued until June 17, 1871; Mr.
-Carncross retiring on that date.
-
-October 2, 1871, Mr. Dixey in conjunction with Frank Moran opened the
-house as Moran and Dixey’s Minstrels. The second season commenced
-August 26, 1872, and on September 24, Mr. Dixey retired from the firm.
-September 1, 1873, again saw Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels installed;
-they continued until March 16, 1878; after a supplemental tour that
-terminated May 11, 1878, Mr. Dixey retired to private life.
-
-Mr. Dixey was one of minstrelsy’s greatest bone players, and in his
-earlier days he excelled in the delineation of wench characters.
-
-He was a student of the negro, as well as a student in private life; a
-gifted, intellectual, cultured gentleman was Edward Freeman Dixey.
-
-E. Freeman Dixey was born in Marblehead, Mass., July 29, 1833; he died
-in Philadelphia, March 2, 1904.
-
-
-MAX IRWIN was a well-known comedian, stump orator and general performer.
-
-In 1858 and 1859 he was a member of Matt. Peel’s Minstrels.
-
-In the latter year he also played variety engagements with “Young
-America” (E. Richardson). May 16, 1859, he married Gussie Lamoreux, the
-well-known dancer, in Philadelphia.
-
-Mr. Irwin who was at one time known as P. Maxey, was born in
-Cincinnati, O.; he died in Adelaide, Aus., August 9, 1864; age 33 years.
-
-
-ADD. WEAVER (Addison Weaver), was one of the real old-time minstrel
-comedians.
-
-It is said he entered the profession in 1845. In 1858 he was with the
-Metropolitan Minstrels; in 1861 with Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Minstrels, and
-in 1863, in conjunction with Charley Morris, was proprietor of the
-Morris Minstrels. In the 60’s, and for several years, he did sketches
-with Master Barney; subsequently he had many pupils who were known as
-Master Add. Weaver; one of these was Fred Hallen.
-
-In the fall of 1876 he succeeded Lew Dockstader in the management of
-the Adelphi, formerly Newton’s Varieties, in Hartford, Conn.
-
-Add. Weaver was a good end man, and was noted for his stump speeches.
-The writer’s last recollection of the veteran minstrel was with “The
-House With Green Blinds,” at the Walnut Street Theatre, Philadelphia,
-about September, 1893; he appeared in the initial production in a
-black-face part, but only played one or two performances, when he was
-succeeded by the author, Scott Marble.
-
-On July 22, 1887, he was married to Mrs. Abigail F. Harris, in New York
-City.
-
-Add. Weaver was born in Cattaraugus County, New York, about 1833; he
-died in Staten Island, N. Y., February 2, 1903.
-
-
-JOHNNY DE ANGELIS was one of the early black-face performers in
-California. He was well-known as a good general comedian in San
-Francisco, where he played many years.
-
-He was the father of Jeff DeAngelis, the present light opera star.
-
-Johnny De Angelis was born in Philadelphia, about 1833; he died in San
-Francisco, Cal., December 25, 1877.
-
-
-DAN BRYANT (Daniel Webster O’Brien). The profound esteem in which this
-black-face comedian was held can be told in no better way than in
-citing the fact that within three weeks of the date of his death, the
-entire theatrical profession in New York City gave no less than eleven
-testimonial benefits in as many different theatres in the Metropolis on
-the afternoon of April 29, 1875; for Dan Bryant’s hand was ever in his
-pocket for those less fortunate than himself, and no one ever appealed
-to him in vain; he was a lovely character, was Dan Bryant--and yet his
-grave remains unmarked; so it is said.
-
-His first appearance was in New York City in 1845 at Vauxhall Garden,
-at his brother Jerry’s benefit; he was with various companies until
-1848, when he joined Losee’s Minstrels; subsequently he was with the
-Sable Harmonists, and in 1850 he joined Charley White’s company in New
-York, remaining a year.
-
-Next he appeared with Wood and Fellowe’s Minstrels in New York, and
-when Mr. Fellowe withdrew, he continued with Henry Wood’s Minstrels,
-same city; he was with them as late as July, 1852.
-
-Later he joined Campbell’s Minstrels, and in the Summer of 1856, he
-managed Bryant’s “Campbell’s” Minstrels; in September, same year,
-he made a pronounced hit in Philadelphia, and on February 23, 1857,
-Bryant’s Minstrels gave their first performance in New York City, at
-Mechanic’s Hall; their last appearance there was June 2, 1866.
-
-August 10, 1867, Dan Bryant and his Minstrels sailed for California;
-they played in San Francisco under the management of Tom Maguire; they
-remained away until May 18, 1868, when they opened at the Tammany
-Building (present Olympic Theatre), New York City; Bryant’s Minstrels
-next home was on 23rd Street, above 6th Avenue; they opened there
-November 23, 1870, and continued until Dan Bryant’s death.
-
-While Dan Bryant’s name and fame will go down to posterity as a
-minstrel, yet he was recognized as a fine Irish comedian. At a benefit
-performance for William R. Floyd in New York, July 2, 1863, Mr. Bryant
-gave a performance of Handy Andy in the play of that name, the equal
-of which had not been seen in some time, and during the Summer seasons
-for several years played in various Irish dramas with success; in May,
-1865, he sailed for Europe, and in Dublin, Ireland, and Liverpool,
-England, he gave several performances of Celtic characters.
-
-Although a good general performer, Dan Bryant’s chief fame rests in his
-“Essence of Old Virginny” dance; it is not claimed that he originated
-it, but it is universally conceded that he excelled all others in it’s
-execution; he likewise gained prominence in the famous “Shoo Fly” song
-and dance with Dave Reed.
-
-It has been shown that Dan Bryant was an actor in _white-face_, but
-that he equally was an actor behind his mask of cork, I submit the
-following from _Harper’s Magazine_, written a few years before the
-lamented minstrel’s death. * * *
-
- “Edwin Forrest was never weary of seeing Dan Bryant play the part of
- the hungry negro in “Old Times, Rocks,” and the verdict of the great
- player was that there was not a finer bit of tragic acting to be seen
- in America at that time than Dan in this broadly funny bit. Who that
- remembers the performance need be told how tears were constantly
- checking laughter in this little scene of the black man’s suffering
- through hunger, and how one’s sympathies were irresistibly wrung by
- the pathos of the minstrel’s voice when, on being questioned as to
- when he had eaten a square meal, he answered, humbly ‘I had a peanut
- last week.’ It was side-splitting--it was heartbreaking.”
-
-Mr. Bryant married Miss Ellen Fitzgibbons of St. Louis, Mo., in that
-city, July 29, 1860.
-
-Dan Bryant was born in Troy, N. Y., May 9, 1833; he died in New York
-City, April 10, 1875.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- BEN. COTTON
-
- TOM. WATERS
-
- BARRY MAXWELL
-
- HARRY G. RICHMOND
-
- CHAS. M. ERNEST
-
- NEIL. ROGERS
-
-STUDIES IN BLACK AND WHITE.]
-
-
-JOHN HART, jolly “fat” John Hart, as he was universally known, first
-appeared professionally in 1854 as a member of Eisenbeice’s Minstrels;
-the company stranded in Syracuse, N. Y., and that was the end of
-Eisenbeice.
-
-Some time later he was stock comedian at Trimble’s Varieties in
-Pittsburg, Pa.
-
-His first New York appearance was at Josh Hart’s Comique in 1869. In
-1871, Hart, Ryman and Barney’s Minstrels were organized.
-
-Mr. Hart also was with Haverly; Kelly and Leon; Morris Bros., and other
-first-class minstrel companies.
-
-In 1888 he was the original Hiram Pepper in the “Two Sisters” Company.
-
-In September, 1887, he was one of the organizers of (Wm. Henry) Rice,
-Hart and (Add) Ryman’s Minstrels.
-
-He toured with the “Two Johns” for three years.
-
-John Hart was screamingly funny in the old-time nigger acts he used to
-do with Arthur Moreland at various times.
-
-He also played an engagement with Augustin Daly in the play of the
-“Royal Middy.”
-
-John Hart was born in Monongahela City, Pa., July 10, 1833; he died in
-New York City, June 4, 1904.
-
-
-J. G. H. SHOREY was one of the early minstrel proprietors and comedians.
-
-The first record of Mr. Shorey’s career as a black-face performer was
-in his father’s barn at the age of nine years; pins were the admission
-fee, and it is said that no one ever complained of being stuck. A few
-years later he joined a dramatic company, and later a circus; after
-that came Shorey’s Southern Minstrels.
-
-In the middle 50’s he formed an alliance with Duprez, Carle and Green,
-playing for a few seasons under the firm name. In later years he
-was identified with several prominent organizations in an executive
-capacity, as well as playing the variety theatres.
-
-Mr. Shorey is reputed to have been the proprietor of the first Dime
-Museum ever opened in Boston.
-
-J. G. H. Shorey was born in Great Falls, N. H., April 10, 1833; he died
-in Lynn, Mass., May 23, 1886.
-
-
-CHARLES F. SHATTUCK was one of the oldest and most noted of minstrel
-bassos. He was the author of the song, “One Hundred Fathoms Deep,” and
-had made many beautiful minstrel arrangements.
-
-He had been associated with such well-known minstrel organizations as
-Newcomb’s; Buckley’s; Simmons and Slocum’s; Geo. Wilson’s and numerous
-others. Mr. Shattuck died in New York, November 29, 1905; age 69 years.
-
-
-NED DAVIS was an old-time comedian; it was his company, known as the
-Olio Minstrels, that were the first to perform on the steamer “Banjo,”
-giving their first performance at Lawrenceburg, Miss., October, 1855.
-Mr. Davis traveled with his minstrel company for many years, also
-appearing with other companies at times, notably Campbell’s Minstrels
-in New York, with whom he opened July 6, 1863.
-
-He died at Mott Haven (New York City) June 29, 1872; age 48 years.
-
-
-EDWIN BOOTH, the great American tragedian, in 1850, at the court-house
-in his native town, gave an entertainment in which he blackened his
-face and sang negro songs, accompanied by the banjo and bones. This was
-one year after his dramatic debut in Boston.
-
-Edwin Booth was born in Belair, Md., November 13, 1833; he died in New
-York City, June 7, 1893.
-
-
-TOM LESLIE, once prominent as a bass singer with Morris Bros., Pell
-and Trowbridge’s Minstrels in Boston, was the father of Eddie and Joe
-Leslie; the former, well known as a mimetic comedian, and the latter
-long associated with Cohan and Harris’ attractions.
-
-Mr. Leslie was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, December 29, 1833; he died
-in Boston, Mass., June 6, 1899.
-
-
-CHARLEY LEWIS, an old-time comedian who was with William Christy’s
-Minstrels in 1860, and who married Miss O’Keefe, of Portage City, Wis.,
-at Milwaukee, July 20, 1861; died at Portage Lake, Wis., November 28,
-1864; age 31 years.
-
-
-JOHN H. DULEY was a well-known comedian half a century ago; his
-“Old Bob Ridley” is said to have compared favorably with the best
-performances of that favorite old-time act.
-
-He had been with Hooley and Campbell’s Minstrels in New York in 1861,
-and went to England with Rumsey and Newcomb’s Company that same year.
-
-July 10, 1859, he married Mrs. Mattie Robinson, an actress.
-
-John H. Duley was born in Philadelphia, Pa., 1834; he died in London,
-England, May 31, 1864.
-
-
-FRANK HUSSEY was a well-known comedian and versatile performer.
-
-His operations were chiefly confined to California and foreign
-countries.
-
-His first appearance was with a minstrel company known as the “Sable
-Brothers,” in 1848. There is practically no country on the globe that
-Hussey has not appeared in.
-
-He was born in Nantucket, Mass., October 26, 1834; he was last heard of
-as a member of Leslie’s Anglo-American Minstrels in Africa, July 30,
-1883.
-
-
-BILLY CHAMBERS, an old-time banjoist and comedian, was with Sam
-Sharpley’s Minstrels, in 1865, and played his last engagement, about
-1870, with Sam Sanford; he died in Philadelphia, September 7, 1879; age
-45 years.
-
-
-HARRY ROBINSON (Bishop), famous in minstrelsy as the “Man With the
-Silver Horns,” came to the United States about 1861, and subsequently
-appeared with George Wood’s Minstrels as a cornetist; later he was with
-Cal. Wagner’s Company.
-
-About 1870 he organized Harry Robinson’s Minstrels, and toured for
-several seasons. He was an excellent musician, and was married three
-times.
-
-Mr. Robinson was born in England; he died (suicide) at Bloomington,
-Ill., May 5, 1889; age 55 years.
-
-
-CHARLES L. CHURCH was a prominent balladist of the 60’s and 70’s.
-
-For many years he was actively associated with Sharpley’s, and Morris
-Bros. Minstrels.
-
-A son of the same name is also a well-known vocalist.
-
-He was born in England, and died in Cambridge, Mass., June 4, 1910; age
-76 years.
-
-
-JAMES WAMBOLD was a brother of Dave Wambold, and achieved prominence as
-a banjoist. His first appearance was in his native city with a local
-minstrel troupe in the early 50’s.
-
-Subsequently he played on the “Floating Palace”; Backus’ Minstrels, and
-Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Minstrels, in 1861.
-
-Mr. Wambold was an expert whistler and gave imitations of birds and
-animals, accompanied by the banjo. He played many engagements with
-circuses, and it was while with one of these in the Spring of 1875 that
-he received injuries that compelled his retirement from the profession.
-
-James F. Wambold was born in Newark, N. J., March 4, 1834; he died
-there June 15, 1901.
-
-
-JOHN L. CARNCROSS, famous for his long association at the old Eleventh
-Street Opera House in Philadelphia, was one of the greatest singers in
-minstrelsy; his voice, a pure tenor, is yet recalled by many of the old
-residents of the Quaker City. Originally he appeared at the various
-concert halls in his native city as “Billy” Warren.
-
-On January 4, 1858, he made his first appearance with Sanford’s
-Minstrels at the latter’s theatre in Philadelphia. Mr. Carncross
-continued there until the Spring of 1860, when the season having
-closed, with Sam Sharpley he organized Carncross and Sharpley’s
-Minstrels in the same city at the Continental Theatre, which was on the
-present site of the Casino Theatre, and gave their first performance
-August 22, 1860; after playing a few weeks they left there and
-reappeared October 1.
-
-April 14, 1862, Mr. Carncross and E. F. Dixey opened there under the
-firm name of Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels, and continued as such
-until April 18, 1871, when the regular season closed; this was followed
-by a supplemental tour, which terminated on June 17, on which date Mr.
-Carncross retired from the firm, and entered the mercantile business.
-
-Mr. Dixey subsequently also retired from the company, but on September
-1, 1873, Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels again opened.
-
-Dixey retired permanently in 1878, and Mr. Carncross continued there
-until January 25, 1896, as Carncross’ Minstrels, on which date he
-finally retired to private life at his residence in the city of his
-birth.
-
-John L. Carncross was born in Philadelphia, about 1834.
-
-
-R. JEAN BUCKLEY (Alexander W. Moody), one of the good old-timers, made
-his first appearance at the old Marshall Theatre, Richmond, Va., in
-October, 1847, as a ballad singer. The following year he joined Joe
-Sweeney’s Minstrels, and at that time he was not only the youngest
-living banjo player, but one of the very few living players.
-
-Mr. Buckley was many years stage manager at the Odeon Theatre,
-Baltimore, Md., and for twenty-two years he was associated with Tim
-Morris, though he also worked with some of the best comedians in the
-country.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- J. W. RAYNOR
-
- JERRY BRYANT
-
-CAMPBELL’S MINSTRELS (1848)
-
-The original company was organized in June, 1847. Jerry Bryant and J.
-W. Raynor were two of the original company. The other photos represent
-minstrel scenes of that day.]
-
-While Mr. Buckley was probably best known in minstrelsy, he also
-traveled extensively with several prominent dramatic and circus
-organizations. He is a skilled general musician, but was well known
-for his performances on the banjo and guitar; as an interlocutor and
-“straight” man, he ranked high.
-
-Mr. Buckley retired from active theatricals in 1907, after sixty years
-of active theatrical life; truly a remarkable record.
-
-R. Jean Buckley was born in Williamsburg, Va., November 24, 1834.
-
-
-BILLY CARTER was not the father of the banjo, but he adopted it at an
-early age, and has had it in his possession ever since.
-
-Mr. Carter first appeared in New Orleans as a performer, in the early
-60’s; he did black and white-face business at three dollars per
-evening, which wasn’t bad for a raw amateur. In 1865 your Uncle Bill
-sat in the middle and played the banjo with the Louisiana Serenaders;
-this was his first minstrel troupe, and “Codfish Aristocracy” was the
-soul-inspiring ballad that stirred his auditors.
-
-After the affair in which he sang about the “Finny 400,” he joined
-the Great Western Opera Bouffe Company; this sounded good enough for
-a four years engagement, but the truth of the matter is, it flopped
-in Lynchburg, Va., in _nearly_ four years less than that time;
-subsequently Mr. Carter and dear departed Luke Schoolcraft (who was a
-member of the company) arrived in Philadelphia in somewhat distressed
-financial circumstances; fortunately our banjo comique had a relative
-in the Quaker City; an _uncle_, I believe, and hunting him up, he took
-a violin and showed it to him. * * * With this 85 cents they arrived in
-New York (Mr. Great Western had considerately purchased transportation
-to the metropolis), and shortly after, he secured an engagement at
-Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, where he met with instant success.
-
-His next important minstrel engagement was with Simmons and Slocum in
-Philadelphia, where he opened February 16, 1874. In 1878 he joined
-Haverly’s Minstrels in Chicago; two years later he engaged with the
-latter’s Mastodons for the London invasion, but William was a bad
-sailor, and at the last minute renigged. Subsequently he appeared with
-Thatcher, Primrose and West’s and with Barlow, Wilson & Company’s
-Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Carter was several years with Harrigan and Hart’s Company in New
-York; with this company he originated the famous “Skidmore Guards,”
-that had such a vogue for a long time. He has played all the principal
-_variety_ houses, and most of the prominent vaudeville theatres. Will
-somebody please notice this nice distinction?
-
-Billy Carter was born at Parish St. Bernard, La., December 16, 1834.
-
-
-FRED ABBOTT, a well-known and clever female impersonator, associated
-for several seasons with Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, Chicago, and
-the road tours; died in Boston, Mass., May 28, 1871; age 37 years.
-
-
-TIM. MORRIS, an old-time performer who achieved recognition for his
-delineation of the plantation “darky,” was with many minstrel troupes
-prior to his death in Providence, R. I., March 6, 1880. He was about 46
-years of age.
-
-
-“FATTY” STEWART (J. S. Crossy), famed for many years as one of the
-original “Two Johns,” made his first professional appearance in New
-York in 1848 as a comic singer.
-
-About two years later he was a member of the Sable Harmonists. In 1854
-he launched Stewart’s Minstrels; and in 1873 he played an engagement
-with Sam Hague’s Minstrels in Liverpool, England. Mr. Stewart was the
-author of many black face sketches, all of which have had considerable
-vogue. He also built or managed several theatres, notably in St. Louis,
-Providence and Philadelphia. Mr. Stewart died in St. Louis, Mo., May
-23, 1905; age 71 years.
-
-
-JOHN PAUL CROCKER was one of the proprietors of Moore, Crocker, Ritter
-and Hamilton’s Minstrels, who gave their first performance at Chester,
-England, November 14, 1864.
-
-Mr. Crocker was a good comedian and well liked personally; he continued
-as a partner of the organization up to the time of his death.
-
-John Paul Crocker was born in the United States; he died in London,
-England, December 17, 1869; age 35 years.
-
-
-AYNSLEY COOKE, who was well and favorably known in operatic circles,
-was a prominent singer with Bryant’s Minstrels in New York City in 1861.
-
-He was born in London, England; he died in Liverpool, England, February
-16, 1894; age 60 years.
-
-
-FRANK WELLS (Bernard Mundy) was a well-known and capable female
-impersonator.
-
-He was for a long time with Morris and Wilson’s Minstrels in St. Louis,
-also with Charley Morris and Add Weaver’s Company, in 1863; later he
-was with LaRue’s Minstrels.
-
-He died in Brooklyn, N. Y., April 25, 1874; age 39 years.
-
-
-D. C. LARUE, a well-known minstrel manager, who had his own companies
-in the 60’s, and during the same period was associated in minstrel
-ventures with J. B. Donniker, Tom Prendergast, Archie Hughes and Cool
-Burgess, died in Charleston, S. C., March 15, 1875; age about 40 years.
-
-
-“HANK” GOODMAN, the old-time comedian, was a member of Gorton’s New
-Orleans Minstrels for many years.
-
-In 1887 he retired, and later assumed the management of Goodman’s Opera
-House in Friendship, N. Y., continuing there until his death, which
-occurred in that city May 14, 1908.
-
-
-NELSE SEYMOUR (Thos. Nelson Sanderson), made his first appearance
-in his native city as a clown in a circus. His initial black-face
-appearance was in the same city in 1861 as a member of Kunkel’s
-“Nightingales,” a prominent minstrel organization, with whom he
-remained the season.
-
-The following year he joined Bryant’s Minstrels in New York; January
-26 following he opened with Wood’s Minstrels, same city. He rejoined
-Bryant’s in 1863, and continued with them until the Fall of 1866, when
-he became a member of Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels, also in New York; he
-remained until May, 1868.
-
-That same month he again joined Bryant’s, and a few weeks later went to
-England, where he opened with Moore and Crocker’s Minstrels. November
-23, 1870, found him back to Bryant’s, where he continued until his
-death.
-
-Mr. Seymour was exceedingly tall, and correspondingly slender, and in
-the various acts in which he worked with Dan Bryant he was very funny.
-He was equally at home, sitting on the end or in the middle on the
-first part.
-
-Nelse Seymour was born in Baltimore, Md., June 5, 1835; he died in New
-York, February 2, 1875.
-
-
-MATT THOMPSON, a good general performer and “Essence” dancer, who was
-with Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Minstrels in 1861; died in New Orleans, La.,
-August 21, 1867; age 32 years.
-
-
-M. T. SKIFF was a well-known and prominent manager of minstrel
-companies. He organized a company bearing his name September 26, 1863,
-at Alexandria, Va. In November the following year, with Low Gaylord, he
-formed Skiff and Gaylord’s Minstrels, and as such traveled for several
-seasons.
-
-Mr. Skiff formed a partnership with Eph. Horn and Walter Bray in
-August, 1869, and gave minstrel performances for a brief period. In
-1871 Mr. Skiff called his company the “Albinos.” He later deserted the
-minstrel field, and for several years traveled in an executive capacity
-with legitimate attractions.
-
-M. T. Skiff was born in New Bedford, Mass.; he died in Baltimore, Md.,
-June 13, 1890; age 55 years.
-
-
-THE FAMOUSLY FUNNY LEE DINNER, as told by the late W. J. Florence to
-_Seen and Heard_; Philadelphia:
-
- “Philip Lee,” said he, “was the husband of the beautiful and gifted
- Adelaide Neilson, since whose death we have never seen a Juliet upon
- the stage to equal her. Lee was the son of an English clergyman, and
- in demeanor and apparel was a gentleman. He accompanied his wife to
- this country, not as her business manager, but simply as her husband.
- He was a harmless, pleasant, gentlemanly fellow, with but little
- knowledge of American ways. It is not true, as has frequently been
- stated, that he knew so little of this country that he expected to
- see buffaloes plunging down Broadway and Indians tomahawking people
- in Central Park, New York, nor was his astonishment at the absence
- of such surprising adventures the inspiring cause of the joke of
- which he was made the victim. Its inception was in this way: At
- the time Lee was in New York City, in the Fall of 1877, he was a
- patron of the Fifth Avenue Hotel, where I was also staying, as I had
- been for years, and Mr. Sothern was quartered at the Gramercy Park
- Hotel. One night the three of us met at the Lotos Club, which was
- then far down town, and, as we were about leaving there, Sothern and
- myself, desiring to pay the Englishman some attention, invited him to
- accompany us to the old chop house kept by George Brown, and there
- have a bite and sup before going to bed. We walked up Fifth Avenue
- together, and, as we were opposite the Glenham Hotel, our attention
- was attracted by a disturbance across the way, evidently caused by a
- brawl between a policeman and some jovial young blades. Lee, who was
- very curious about everything he saw, exclaimed, ‘Bless me! what’s
- that?’ Mr. Sothern replied in the most nonchalant manner, as he
- continued walking on, ‘Oh, only another dead man.’
-
-[Illustration:
-
- BOB. SLAVIN
-
- ED. H. BANKER
-
- “HAPPY” CAL WAGNER
-
- BURT. HAVERLY
-
- SAM. HAGUE
-
- EUGENE STRATTON
- (1878)
-
- JOHNNY SHAY
-
- M. T. SKIFF
-
- JOHN W. THOMPSON
-
-A GROUP OF GENUINES.]
-
- “‘Another dead man!’ gasped Lee; ‘Lord bless me, what do you mean?’
-
- “‘Oh, that’s nothing,’ exclaimed Sothern, with a wave of his hand;
- ‘I stumble across them every night on my way home. They are killing
- men around here all the time. I trip over them, but pay no attention
- to them, but keep right on my way home. I don’t care to be summoned
- as a witness before the Coroner every day of my life.’ ‘Bless me!’
- exclaimed Lee; ‘what a remarkable country!’
-
- * * * * *
-
- “We finally reached Brown’s, and, having secured a table, we ordered
- chops and ale. Sothern and myself had not prearranged any joke upon
- our guest, but he had given me a wink, which I knew meant mischief,
- and I was ready to play second to any part he proposed performing.
- While we were eating, Sothern suddenly reached over and placed his
- fork in one of my chops, attempting to remove it to his plate. I
- prevented this by the insertion of my own fork, and then said, in
- calm but determined tones, ‘Ned, I don’t like that,’ to which Lord
- Dundreary responded, but not in the feeble tones of that stuttering
- stage nobleman, ‘Mr. Florence, I don’t care whether you like it or
- not; I want that chop!’
-
- “With that I sprang upon him with uplifted knife and grabbed my
- dearly beloved friend by the throat, and he seized me in a similar
- way, while he apparently made desperate efforts to cut my jugular
- vein. In the melee which ensued the table was upset, and chops, ale,
- dishes, knives, forks and all the other appurtenances descended upon
- poor Lee in a shower. Brown, the proprietor of the establishment, who
- knew us both intimately, rushed forward and separated us, and at his
- solicitation, he thinking we were entirely in earnest, we finally
- shook hands and renewed our vows of eternal friendship upon one
- another’s bosoms.
-
- * * * * *
-
- “That was the inception of the famous Lee dinner hoax. Sothern
- came to me afterward and said he desired to give the Englishman a
- dinner at the Gramercy Park Hotel, in order to introduce him to the
- customs of the great American people, and said that the only part
- he desired me to take in it was to be sure that Lee should be on
- hand at the appointed hour, which was noon of the following Sunday.
- To this I agreed. I knew, of course, that some sort of a joke was
- to be perpetrated upon Miss Neilson’s husband, but I pledge my word
- that I was not fully let into the secret, and was not advised of
- the programme. At the designated time I escorted Lee to the banquet
- room, which was on the first floor in the rear of the hotel office. I
- found out afterward that by special arrangement with Mr. Judson, the
- proprietor, the doors and windows had been well padded and covered
- so that no noise within could reach beyond them. The apartment was
- lighted with wax candles. Those assembled were John McCullough,
- Harry Montague, J. S. Polk, Charles Gaylor, all of whom had achieved
- fame upon the stage; Dan Bryant and Nelson Seymour, the most famous
- negro minstrels of their day; Commodore Dickinson, of the New York
- Yacht Club; George Brown, of the chop house, which bore his name; a
- gentleman named Cooper and, of course, Sothern, Lee and myself. None
- other than these was present.
-
- * * * * *
-
- “The oysters had been disposed of,” continued Florence, “and the soup
- had just been placed on the table, when Charley Gaylor arose, and, in
- very impressive tones, spoke about as follows: ‘Gentlemen, I think
- this is a most auspicious occasion to bring about peace between two
- men who, while strangers, were once devoted friends. I do not think
- that rancor could exist in any heart at a gathering of this kind. To
- be sure, it may ill become me to act the part of a peacemaker, for,
- while it is true I have shed human blood, that my right hand has been
- red with, the gore of another, it must also be borne in mind that
- I was triumphantly acquitted of the offense, and that a jury of my
- peers said that I had acted only in self-defense.’
-
-[Illustration:
-
- DAN BRYANT
- AND
- NELSE SEYMOUR.]
-
- “You can readily imagine that this took the breath out of my friend
- Lee, who had been seated upon my left. He whispered to me, ‘What has
- he done? Did he kill anyone?’ I looked at him warningly, and put a
- finger on my lips as I whispered back, ‘Sh-h-h! It was nothing; only
- his mother!’ I heard him mutter, ‘My God!’ as he shrunk in his chair,
- and then he leaned toward me and whispered, ‘Of whom is he speaking?’
- As I didn’t know myself, I couldn’t well tell him, but I warned him
- off by saying, ‘You will learn it all in a moment. His words might
- apply to any two men about the board, because every fellow here has
- killed his man.’
-
- * * * * *
-
- “Just then Gaylor threw light upon the subject by saying, as he
- pointed with one hand to that clever negro minstrel, Dan Bryant, and
- the other toward that equally famous delineator of cork humor, Nelse
- Seymour, ‘Of course, gentlemen, it is hardly necessary for me to say
- that I refer to America’s most famous poet, William Cullen Bryant,
- and that equally distinguished gentleman, M. Seymour, the son of the
- talented ex-Governor of the State of New York, Horatio Seymour, and I
- now request that these two gentlemen shake hands across the table and
- let the bloody feud which has existed between them end here!’
-
- “I had scarcely time to give an affirmative reply to Lee’s whispered
- inquiry. ‘Is that really William Cullen Bryant?’ when there ensued
- the most remarkable scene which I ever witnessed in my life. I
- cannot, even after many years have elapsed, think of it without the
- tears of laughter coming to my eyes. Seymour was a man over six feet
- in height, and with legs the length of which were absurdly out of
- proportion to the rest of his body. He appeared to be split up almost
- to his neck. One of his most famous feats upon the minstrel stage
- was to suddenly throw one of his feet about a man’s neck and draw
- the other fellow toward him. Upon this occasion Bryant, in obedience
- to Gaylor’s summons, had reached forth his right hand, when Seymour
- suddenly threw that dreadful right leg of his across the table,
- caught his friend and fellow-minstrel by the back of the neck, drew
- him toward him and hit him squarely between the eyes. In another
- instant both men were on top of the table amid the soup dishes, and
- were snarling and biting and tearing at one another like a pair of
- bulldogs. Cooper and Dickinson, who were not in the secret, became so
- alarmed that they got under the table, while I could only hold Lee in
- his chair by main force. In the midst of the contest the table upset
- and the poor Englishman was almost drowned in soup. While Bryant
- and Seymour were making a mockery of struggling beneath the debris,
- Seymour, by wetting his fingers of one hand, secured a quantity
- of blacking from one of his shoes, and with this gave himself the
- semblance of a black eye. When some appearance of order had been
- obtained a truce was patched up between the combatants, and, after
- Seymour’s blackened eye had been bandaged, they were induced to shake
- hands, whereupon the other members of the company, who were in the
- secret, exclaimed admiringly, ‘Once a gentleman, always a gentleman!’
- and declared that ‘a true American gentleman can always be told by
- his willingness to settle a little difference amicably.’
-
- “Lee whispered to me in tremulous indignation, ‘This is most
- shameful!’ to which I replied, ‘I don’t see how you say that. There
- was no one killed.’ Thereupon he amended his remark by saying, ‘At
- least, it was most unfortunate. I am dreadfully sorry it occurred.’
-
-[Illustration:
-
- MATT. WHEELER
-
- DAVE WILSON
-
- WILL COX
-
- CLARK GIBBS
-
- HARRY W. SMITH
-
- WILL LAVAKE
-
-“Wheeler & Wilson,” “Will Cox & Gibbs,” and some “Singers”; nearly all
-“Domestics.” Try to play this on the machine.]
-
- * * * * *
-
- “The table was got in shape again, and things moved along smoothly
- and pleasantly for some time, until Polk and Sothern became engaged
- in apparently a very angry and excited dispute about the merits of
- the North and South, in the midst of which Mr. Sothern suddenly arose
- to his feet, and, drawing a revolver, fired it directly over Polk’s
- head. Immediately a scene of the wildest excitement ensued. In less
- than twenty minutes twenty shots from revolvers had been fired across
- the table. Polk, Gaylor, McCullough, Montague, Seymour, Bryant and
- Sothern were not only firing blank cartridges from revolvers, but
- were brandishing huge knives over one another’s heads. Dickinson,
- Cooper and Brown had by this time discovered the affair was a joke
- and simply added to the tumult. The terror of the Englishman was
- almost pitiable. He begged to be allowed to go, but his friends were
- so thoroughly in love with him that they would not let him depart.
- There was upon the table at this particular juncture a large dish of
- asparagus, covered with drawn butter, and most of the combatants, who
- were crawling across the table to carve one another’s hearts out,
- managed to get their hands into this mess, and, while thus besmeared,
- they could take turns in jumping around to where I was holding Lee
- in place, and, bringing their palms down upon his shoulders, would
- beg of him to be seated and assured him that the difficulty was
- simply a trifling one, and that they would regret it to their dying
- day should he leave them. So frequent were these expressions of
- hospitality that Lee was smeared from head to foot with drawn butter.
- I shall never forget the spectacle that the lamented John McCullough
- presented on that occasion. Having fired his revolver, he drew a long
- Roman sword from his boot, and, with a swirl, cut off the neck of a
- champagne bottle as if he were decapitating a foe, and then waving
- it threateningly over the heads of Lee and myself, he exclaimed,
- ‘Why does not the gallant Florence stand by his friends? Where is
- his revolver to-night? I have traveled with him through the West,
- and then he never went without his arsenal and scarcely a day passed
- without his killing a man.’
-
- * * * * *
-
- “In the midst of the fracas, Seymour, who had temporarily
- disappeared, appeared in the doorway attired in a white hat and
- apron, which he had procured from the hotel chef, and announced that
- the landlord declared that the entire party must vacate the room. He
- had not finished his speech when everything on the table, including
- even the large, heavy dishes, was hurled at him, and it is really
- a wonder that he escaped the shower unhurt. By this time everyone
- in the room, and especially the Englishman, was a lamentable sight
- to behold. Each one was smeared and crushed and tumbled and torn
- from head to foot. Lee could stand it no longer. He got on his feet
- finally and managed to say that while he had heard such scenes as he
- had witnessed were enacted in the purlieus of the great cities of
- America, he was astounded and disappointed to find that they were
- the custom among gentlemen, and further said that he would have to
- leave to keep a dinner engagement. It was 4 o’clock. I escorted him
- to the street and put him in a carriage to conceal his dilapidated
- condition. When we came to settle for this little joke, we found that
- our bill was $600. The item for breakage alone amounted to $80.”
-
- Men will sometimes become boys again; and very silly boys.
-
- * * * * *
-
-Note.--Mr. Florence was in error in giving the date of the foregoing as
-the Fall of 1877. Dan Bryant died in the Spring of 1875.--Author.
-
-
-CHARLES MELVILLE was of late years best known as a manager and agent,
-but in his earlier days achieved considerable fame as a balladist in
-minstrelsy.
-
-As early as May 1, 1856, he was with Raynor’s “Christy” Minstrels, and
-in November, same year, he was a member of Turner’s Southern Serenaders.
-
-The following year he was with Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Minstrels in the
-Summer; in November, 1860, Charles Melville’s Minstrels were on tour.
-
-October 14, 1861, he began a brief engagement with Fox and Sharpley’s
-Minstrels in New York.
-
-In an executive capacity he was associated among others with Col. T.
-Allston Browne and Shook and Palmer.
-
-In February, 1894, Mr. Melville occupied the position as ticket taker
-at the Arch Street Theatre in Philadelphia, at the opening of that
-theatre in a revival of old stock plays by George Learock.
-
-Charles Melville died in Newark, N. J., July 10, 1901; age about 65
-years.
-
-
-LEW. MEYERS (Buhmeir), is a name that is practically unknown to
-minstrel lovers of to-day; yet to him belongs the credit of being
-the original “musical moke,” long familiar to variety and minstrel
-_habitues_. His first performance of the act was given in Newark, N.
-J., during the season of 1852-53.
-
-He was likewise the first to perform the harmonica on the stage. He
-went to Europe in 1866 with Hussey, Sweney and Felton’s Minstrels.
-His last appearance was at Los Angeles, Cal., January 27, 1874,
-where he gave an entire evening’s entertainment of one and a half
-hours’ duration, during which he performed on twenty-six different
-instruments; and on one occasion four at one time.
-
-Lew Meyers was born in Minden, Prussia; he died in Pottsville, Pa.,
-July 11, 1875; age 40 years.
-
-
-JAKE BUDD (Zebley), the old-time comedian, was with Buckley’s
-Serenaders in England, about 1855; subsequently with Dan Howard
-he ran Canterbury Hall in Harrisburg, Pa., for several years; in
-1862 he rejoined Buckley’s; he also directed minstrel companies in
-Baltimore and Washington. In 1872 he was part owner of Brant’s Hall
-in Harrisburg, Pa.; in 1874 he was stage manager of the Comique in
-Washington, D. C.; subsequently becoming the manager.
-
-The distinction of bringing before the public that famous song and
-dance team, Welch and Rice, in the 60’s, belongs to Mr. Budd, and while
-it has been said that he was the first to do a monologue in minstrelsy,
-the writer has no means of substantiating the assertion.
-
-Jake Budd was born in Philadelphia; he died in Washington, D. C.,
-October 11, 1888; age 53 years.
-
-
-J. K. CAMPBELL (John Kelly), celebrated as a banjoist and comedian,
-made his first appearance at Wright’s Music Hall in New York City, in
-1846, as a youth, and playing under his own name. About 1851, George
-Lea, the well-known variety manager, suggested that Kelly take the
-name of Cameron, the same as the prominent theatrical printer; a
-typographical error made it appear Campbell; and as Campbell it always
-remained, except for a brief period in 1859 and 1860, when he was with
-George Christy’s Minstrels at Niblo’s Saloon in New York; here he sat
-on the opposite end to Christy, and was on the programme as J. K.
-Edwards.
-
-In 1870, he was a prominent member of Hooley’s Minstrels, in Brooklyn,
-N. Y., and when Hooley opened in Chicago on January 2, 1871, Mr.
-Campbell went with him; with this company he did a song and dance with
-John Hogan, of Hogan and Hughes; the latter being unable to play on
-account of illness.
-
-He was many years associated with the late “Fatty” Stewart, and
-identified with such prominent organizations as Moore and Burgess, in
-London, England, and Buckley’s, in Boston, where he opened in August,
-1864.
-
-Mr. Campbell was one of the great cards of minstrelsy; as a banjoist
-he ranked with the best; his “Essence of Old Virginny” was A1; he was
-versatile to a degree, and wrote several sketches, amongst them “The
-Rival Lovers” and “The Lawyer’s Clerk.”
-
-Miss Fanchon Campbell, the talented young actress of the present, and
-who was a clever child actress at the time of Mr. Campbell’s death, is
-a daughter of his.
-
-J. K. Campbell was born in New York City, 1835; he died in Pittsburg,
-Pa., February 6, 1878.
-
-
-JOE. BUCKLEY (Timothy Clancy), was a good general black-face performer.
-In 1857, he was with G. N. Eldridge’s Great Southern Circus, and for
-many years was associated with that style of entertainment.
-
-In his earlier days he was associated with Joe Chatfield and Harry
-Wells. Mr. Buckley, likewise, was in the stock at Tony Pastor’s at 585
-Broadway, New York City, also with Harrigan and Hart’s Company. At the
-time of his death he was not engaged in his profession.
-
-Joe. Buckley was born in Philadelphia, September 7, 1835; he died in
-New York City, July 19, 1884.
-
-
-CHARLES HENRY, one of the oldest ballad singers in minstrelsy, was
-living as late as 1886; he is said to have died in England.
-
-
-CHARLES TEMPLETON (Broughton). This well-known popular vocalist of
-minstrelsy, began his career in Dundee, Scotland, in 1857, with Tom
-Lee’s Minstrels; other succeeding European engagements were with the
-Pelham Bros.’ Minstrels and Templeton’s African Opera Troupe, the
-latter in the Spring of 1859; it was here that he took the name of
-Campbell, emulating the distinguished Sher. Campbell.
-
-In the Fall of 1859 he came to America and was engaged by Dan Bryant
-for Bryant’s Minstrels, at 472 Broadway, New York City; at the
-suggestion of Bryant, he took the name of Glendale, so as not to
-conflict with Sher. Campbell, a warm personal friend of Bryant’s.
-
-Late in 1859 he joined Sanford’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, resuming
-the name of Campbell; he remained there three years. Subsequently he
-became a member of the following well-known minstrel organizations:
-Hooley’s, in Brooklyn; San Franciscos, in New York, six years; a second
-and third engagement at Bryant’s, also Hooley’s; Geo. Christy’s, one
-year; Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s; Cotton and Reed’s; Cool
-Burgess’; Carncross, in Philadelphia; Neil Bryant’s and Cleveland’s.
-Also with such operatic companies as Pauline Hall’s, and E. E. Rice’s;
-his last engagement was with Camille D’Arville Company, about 15 years
-ago.
-
-Charles Templeton was born at South Kirby, England, January 1, 1835.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- JAS. HOLDEN
-
- E. N. CATLIN
-
- FRANK CARDELLA
-
- BOB. HALL
-
- EDDIE FOX
-
- W. S. MULLALLY
-
- E. J. CORNU
-
- J. B. DONNIKER
-
- CHAS. HUNNEMAN
-
-SOME LEADING LEADERS OF MINSTRELSY.]
-
-
-DENMAN THOMPSON, famous for many years for his unique characterization
-of Joshua Whitcomb, in the “Old Homestead,” sat on the end with a
-minstrel show many a time over 50 years ago; and at the Royal Lyceum,
-Toronto, Canada, February 6, 1857, he played Uncle Tom, in “Uncle Tom’s
-Cabin.”
-
-
-“HANK” PARMLEY, the well-known old-time minstrel agent, died in Newark,
-N. J., May 7, 1902; age 67 years.
-
-
-NEIL BRYANT (Cornelius A. O’Brien), was the youngest and the last
-of the three famous brothers of his name that organized Bryant’s
-Minstrels, in 1857.
-
-Oddly enough, less is known about the early career of Neil Bryant than
-either of his brothers.
-
-The earliest authentic record obtainable by the author is at the
-American Hall, Hartford, Conn., June 25, 1851, as a member of Ordway’s
-Aeolians, a famous Boston organization; it is highly probable that
-Mr. Bryant was with this company prior to the above date in the
-Massachusetts metropolis.
-
-He continued with Bryant’s Minstrels in New York until the death of
-his brother Dan, April 10, 1875; subsequently he organized Bryant’s
-Minstrels, and gave intermittent performances on the road for a period
-of about seven years. In 1851, the programme gave Neil Bryant as giving
-an accordeon solo; in later years he was almost exclusively identified
-with his performance on the flutina.
-
-About 1882 he secured a government position in Washington, D. C., which
-he retained until two years prior to his death.
-
-July 11, 1859, Mr. Bryant married Miss Gertrude E. Ransom.
-
-Neil Bryant was born in Keesville, N. Y., 1835; he died in Brooklyn, N.
-Y., March 6, 1902.
-
-
-JOE. MURPHY (Wm. L. Murphy). It is pretty well known to theatre goers
-in general, that Mr. Murphy’s early career was spent as a minstrel in
-California, where he drifted in the 50’s.
-
-As late as 1858 he was with the California Minstrels, with whom he was
-associated many months in San Francisco.
-
-In 1860 with Billy Birch, a company bearing the name of Birch and
-Murphy’s Minstrels toured. In 1864 Murphy and (Walter) Bray’s Minstrels
-were in existence. Mr. Murphy then came East, and with Ben Cotton
-formed Cotton and Murphy’s Minstrels, opening at Fall River, Mass.,
-about March 1, 1865.
-
-In 1867 he again went West, and late that year was with Dan and Neil
-Bryant’s Minstrels, in San Francisco. A few months later he joined
-Morris Brothers’ Company, in Boston, and on April 20, 1868, made his
-appearance in New York with Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels.
-
-Once more did Mr. Murphy take Horace Greeley’s advice, and went West,
-where in August, 1869, at Salt Lake City, Utah, with Johnny Mack,
-organized Murphy and Mack’s Minstrels.
-
-His first appearance as a legitimate performer was made in San
-Francisco, September 16, 1867, as Pat Murphy in “The Happy Man.”
-
-It was in New York City, May 8, 1871, that Mr. Murphy first produced
-his play of “Help,” in which he impersonated a negro and other
-characters.
-
-Subsequently “Shaun Rhue” and “Kerry Gow” brought him name and fame, as
-well as wealth.
-
-Mr. Murphy married Miss Martha Shattuck in the early 60’s.
-
-At San Antonio, Texas, November 11, 1909, he wedded Miss May Firmier,
-an actress.
-
-Joe Murphy was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., May 16, about 1835.
-
-
-J. W. HILTON was one of the favorite bass singers in minstrelsy.
-
-He was with Bryant’s Minstrels in New York, in 1860, and continued with
-them intermittently for several seasons. In the Summer of 1869 he went
-to Liverpool, England, with Smith and Taylor’s Minstrels, opening there
-June 21.
-
-J. W. Hilton was born in the United States; he died in Liverpool,
-England, January 2, 1871; age 36 years.
-
-
-JAMES UNSWORTH, or just “Unsworth” as he was more familiarly known,
-was one of those rare performers who were concededly away ahead of the
-times in which they flourished.
-
-The word “great” may be truly applied to him, for while he excelled in
-all he undertook, he was famous for his stump speeches, for his banjo
-solos, and for his singing of Irish songs on the end, of which he was
-one of the first.
-
-His professional debut was made with Sanford’s Minstrels, in
-Philadelphia, August 10, 1857; he continued there until January 2,
-1858, when he left and joined Bryant’s Minstrels in New York that same
-month. After a few months with that company he went with Matt. Peel’s
-Minstrels for a road tour, and opened with them in New York, October 5,
-1858; a few weeks later the company was known as Sniffen’s Campbell’s
-Minstrels, with whom Mr. Unsworth continued for several weeks.
-
-December 6, he rejoined Bryant’s for the season; again opening there
-the following Fall; he left September 19, 1859, and later joined
-Anderson’s Minstrels, which had a brief existence. Early in 1860 he
-opened with Hooley and Campbell’s Minstrels: here he met “Eugene,” and
-a business alliance was formed which continued uninterruptedly until
-death intervened, fifteen years later.
-
-He closed with Hooley and Campbell in New York City, January 26, 1861,
-and with “Eugene” and J. B. Donniker organized Unsworth’s Minstrels. A
-few months later he sailed for Europe, and subsequently joined Rumsey
-and Newcomb’s Minstrels in Liverpool; later going to Germany with them.
-Mr. Unsworth remained abroad playing the Music Halls, also a long
-engagement with Wilsom and Montague’s Minstrels, until the Spring of
-1868, when he returned to America, and again joined Bryant’s Minstrels
-in New York: he remained two years.
-
-In the Fall of 1870 he joined Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y.,
-and later went with that company to Chicago, opening January 2, 1871,
-for the balance of the season.
-
-Unsworth’s Minstrels again took the road, opening September 2, 1871,
-at Paterson, N. J.; December 18, he returned to Hooley’s, in Brooklyn,
-N. Y. In 1872, he was successively with Moran and Dixey’s; and Moran’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-In the Spring of 1873 he joined Moran and Manning’s Minstrels, and in
-the Fall of that year again became a member of Bryant’s Company in New
-York for the season. Mr. Unsworth sailed for England in 1874, opening
-with Sam Hague’s Minstrels in Liverpool in the Fall of that year; he
-remained with the company until his death.
-
-James Unsworth was born in Liverpool, England, July 2, 1835; he died
-there, February 21, 1875.
-
-
-MAZZELLAH AINSLEY SCOTT is one of the oldest, and at the same time one
-of the youngest looking minstrels. Mr. Scott, who has a keen sense of
-humor, gravely declares that he was born in Nashua, N. H., July 26,
-1820; he looks 60.
-
-Mr. Scott sometime ago told the author that he (Scott) made his first
-appearance on the stage at the age of three years as the child in
-“Pizarro”; then Mr. Scott had to catch a train, the author caught a
-cold, but managed to get the following data:
-
-In 1858 he was with the New Orleans Opera Troupe (a minstrel company),
-the following year he was at Bryant’s Minstrels in New York; he has the
-distinction of being the only one living who was on the programme the
-night that “Dixie” was first sung, September 12, 1859.
-
-Mr. Scott was in partnership with Cool Burgess in a minstrel show in
-1867; the same year he was with LaRue’s Minstrels, also Lloyd and
-Bidaux’s Minstrels.
-
-In 1862 he was with Sanford’s Minstrels; in 1864 at the opening of M.
-C. Campbell’s Minstrels, in New York, June 27. He was with the San
-Franciscos, also in New York, and with Duprez and Green’s Company.
-
-In 1884 he was with the opera of “Princess Ida”; in 1892 with Miss
-Sidonie, as Scott and Sidonie played a sketch in vaudeville, called
-“Roundsey, the Copper.”
-
-Mrs. Ainsley Scott died May 31, 1867.
-
-When last heard of, a short time ago, Mr. Scott was a pedestrian.
-
-
-WM. H. BROCKWAY was a well-known interlocutor of minstrelsy. He was
-with Morris Bros; Pell and Trowbridge’s Minstrels in Boston in the
-Spring of 1859, and continued with them practically until July 27,
-1861, when in conjunction with Charley Morris and Jno. E. Taylor, they
-formed a minstrel company, opening in Gloucester, Mass., on the above
-date.
-
-Mr. Brockway joined Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels in New York early
-in 1868, and continued with them about a year. He joined Bryant’s
-Minstrels in New York about 1871, and remained with them until the
-death of Dan Bryant, April 10, 1875.
-
-Mr. Brockway joined Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn about December 1875.
-He had not appeared professionally for about ten or twelve years prior
-to his death.
-
-W. H. Brockway was born in New York; he died in Boston, Mass., May 25,
-1888, age 53 years.
-
-
-JOSEPH GORTON, SR., entered the theatrical business in 1854, and has
-the distinction of being the oldest manager, in point of service, of
-any man in the annals of minstrelsy.
-
-Mr. Gorton assumed the management of the New Orleans Minstrels in
-November, 1867; the company subsequently became known as Gorton’s
-Minstrels, and as such has continued up until the present year.
-
-Joseph Gorton, Sr., was born in Friendship, N. Y., February 21, 1835.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- “EUGENE”
- (1858)
-
- “THE ONLY LEON”
- (1860)
-
- ROLLIN HOWARD
-
- FRED. DART
-
-THEY WERE FAMOUS IN FEMALE FRIVOLITIES.]
-
-
-O. P. SWEET, or Dr. O. P. Sweet as it is now, began his professional
-career as a member of Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Minstrels in 1860; at that time
-he was known as Tom Leslie.
-
-The next four years were given to concert work. Mr. Sweet joined
-Haverly’s Minstrels late in 1864; March 17, 1865, he opened with
-Arlington’s Minstrels, in Chicago; two years later he was also with
-Arlington. Another two years saw him a member of Buckley’s Serenaders.
-
-April 17, 1871, he opened in New York with Newcomb and Arlington’s
-Minstrels; a year later he was with Mike Leavitt’s Minstrels.
-
-Dr. Sweet has been practicing his profession for many years, but is
-always glad to recall “Auld Lang Syne.”
-
-Dr. Sweet has passed the allotted three score years and ten--and some
-more.
-
-
-THEODORE JACKSON, the old-time interlocutor, who in his day was
-prominently identified with many famous minstrel organizations, is said
-to have died in Brooklyn, N. Y., a few years ago.
-
-
-WILLIAM CASTLE (J. C. Reeves), the great operatic tenor, and long
-prominent in musical circles in Chicago, was with several famous
-minstrel organizations, notably Hooley & Campbell’s in 1860-61, and
-George Christy’s in 1862. Mr. Castle was born in England, December 20,
-1836; he died in Chicago, Ill., March 31, 1909.
-
-
-JAKE WALLACE, the famous old banjoist and black-face performer, is said
-to be living on a ranch in Southern California, in the neighborhood of
-San Diego.
-
-The author is willing to admit he envies Mr. Wallace.
-
-
-S. S. PURDY was a well-known and prominent comedian; he excelled in the
-song and dance of “Nicodemus Johnson,” and as early as February, 1868,
-in a controversy, he claimed to have been the originator of it.
-
-In 1867 he was co-proprietor of Purdy, Coes and Converse’s Minstrels,
-and in 1872 of Purdy, Scott and Fostelle’s Minstrels.
-
-In 1863-64 he was with Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, and in
-1867-68-69 with Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels.
-
-About February 1, 1876, he took out a company called the Purdy
-Combination, which had a brief existence.
-
-S. S. Purdy was born in Troy, N. Y., February, 1836; he died in
-Chicago, Ill., March 1, 1876.
-
-
-LOW GAYLORD (Lowrenzo Gaylord) began his theatrical career at the age
-of twelve as a ballad singer with Green’s Circus.
-
-In the early 50’s he organized Gaylord and Dupont’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia, where they remained for several years.
-
-With M. T. Skiff they organized Skiff and Gaylord’s Minstrels, giving
-their first performance in 1864, and continued as an organization
-intermittently until 1878.
-
-Low Gaylord was born in Westfield, Mass., January 19, 1836; he died in
-Philadelphia, April 7, 1878.
-
-
-JOHN P. OBERIST was a well-known vocalist, and as a Tyrolean warbler,
-was one of the best.
-
-His first theatrical appearance was with the Twilight Serenaders at
-Erie, Pa., June 25, 1860.
-
-In 1865 he opened with Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels in New York, and
-continued with them about three years.
-
-Subsequently he was with Newcomb’s Minstrels in 1869, and in 1870
-joined the San Francisco Minstrels for the season.
-
-Later he joined Harrigan and Hart’s Company in New York, where he
-remained until his death.
-
-He was born in Buffalo, N. Y., 1836; he died in New York, January 17,
-1882.
-
-
-E. N. SLOCUM was one of the best interlocutors and actors in
-minstrelsy. His first appearance was with an amateur company in Warren,
-O., in 1849.
-
-About 1855 he played on the Steamer “Banjo” with Ned Davis’ Minstrels;
-subsequently he was with Hooley, in Brooklyn, N. Y., Duprez and
-Green’s; Skiff and Gaylord’s and Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia, where he remained several years. August 29, 1870, he
-opened with Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels at their own theatre in
-Philadelphia, where he continued until 1877, when he joined Carncross’
-Minstrels in the same city, and remained several seasons.
-
-About 1887 he joined Dockstader’s Minstrels in New York; this was his
-last professional engagement, after which he entered the mercantile
-business.
-
-E. N. Slocum was born in Columbus, O., April 26, 1836; he died in
-Philadelphia, October 17, 1895.
-
-
-CHARLES O. WHITE, the great theatrical manager, who had at various
-times theatres in Washington, Memphis, Nashville, New Orleans, Brooklyn
-and Detroit, began his professional career in 1852 in Washington, D.
-C., as a member of the Cosmopolitan Minstrels; later he was with the
-famous Euterpians, and Sweeney and Parrow’s Minstrels.
-
-Mr. White was born in Alexandria, Va., December 25, 1836; he died in
-Detroit, Mich., January 2, 1889.
-
-
-“EUGENE” (Eugene D’ Ameli) was one of the most wonderful artists in his
-line that minstrelsy ever knew; his delineations of female characters
-were so finished, so true to life, that the Germans in Berlin during an
-engagement there in April, 1862, were emphatic in their declarations
-that he was a woman.
-
-“Eugene’s” debut was made with Wood’s Minstrels in New York, May 16,
-1853; five months later, George Christy joined the company, which was
-known as Wood and Christy’s Minstrels until May, 1858. Eugene continued
-as a member all during this period.
-
-Early in May, 1858, he went to California with George Christy, and
-several others; they opened in San Francisco, June 7, under the
-management of Tom Maguire. In January, 1859, he left there, under the
-management of R. M. Hooley and George Christy; returning to New York,
-he opened May 23, and continued until July, when he went on tour with
-the company; they subsequently returned to New York, where on January
-28, 1860, they disbanded.
-
-On February 6, Mr. Eugene opened with Hooley and Campbell’s Minstrels
-in Boston, at their inaugural performance there; with this company
-he met James Unsworth, and the two formed a business alliance that
-continued until the death of the latter, just fifteen years later.
-
-Early in 1861, Eugene, Unsworth and J. B. Donniker organized Unsworth’s
-Minstrels; they disbanded at Ogdensburg, N. Y., in the Spring; shortly
-after, Eugene and Unsworth sailed for Europe. On August 5, 1861,
-they opened with Rumsey and Newcomb’s Minstrels in Liverpool, Eng.;
-subsequently they played through the provinces and Germany.
-
-Later they returned to London, where they played the music halls for
-three years; after which they joined Wilsom and Montague’s Minstrels in
-Liverpool, and played there for four years; their last engagement there
-was April 7, 1868. Mr. Eugene and his partner arrived in the United
-States on April 28, and a few weeks later opened the season of 1868 at
-Bryant’s Minstrels in New York, and continued there for two years.
-
-In the fall of 1870 he joined Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, and on
-January 2, 1871, when the latter opened in Chicago, Mr. Eugene was with
-him, and continued for several months.
-
-September 2, 1871, he opened at Paterson, N. J., with Unsworth’s
-Minstrels at their first performance. December 18, they reopened with
-Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, remaining several weeks.
-
-February 26, 1872, he began an engagement with Moran and Dixey’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia, and remained until the end of the season.
-
-In August he opened a three-months’ engagement at the Howard Athenaeum,
-in Boston, and on November 25, joined Frank Moran’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia. At the conclusion of the regular season, the company went
-on tour; it was known as Moran and Manning’s Minstrels, and “Eugene”
-was a member of the company.
-
-The season of 1873-74 was spent with Bryant’s Minstrels in New York;
-in 1874 he went to England and opened with Sam Hague’s Minstrels in
-Liverpool, where he remained until the death of his partner, February
-21, 1875.
-
-“Eugene” returned to New York the same year, and on September 13,
-commenced a short season there with Cotton and Reed’s Minstrels.
-November 15 he began an engagement with Carncross and Dixey’s company
-in Philadelphia, and continued there for four years; the last season
-the company was known as Carncross Minstrels.
-
-June 4, 1879, he sailed for England for a period of much needed rest,
-playing but a few engagements.
-
-In 1881 he returned to America, and on October 17, he opened with
-Emerson’s Minstrels in San Francisco, closing in January, 1882;
-subsequently sailing for a Trans-Pacific trip with a variety company,
-opening at Honolulu, May 13. The company disbanded in Shanghai,
-China, in August, and “Eugene” returned to the United States in March
-following.
-
-A year later he began his final engagement with the Leon and Cushman
-company, and in May, 1884, he made his last appearance on any stage.
-
-Thus after a successful career of exactly thirty-one years, this
-brilliant luminary of the minstrel firmament retired to private life.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- ARCHIE HUGHES
-
- HARRY TALBOTT
-
- PETE LEE
-
- JOHNNY ALLEN
-
-THEY TICKLED THE TAMBOURINE.
-
- “KERRY GOW” JOE MURPHY
- (1865)
-
- DAVE REED
-
- E. F. DIXEY
-
- FRED HUBER
-
-THEY BANGED THE BONES.]
-
-“Eugene” was born in New York City, June 4, 1836; he died in Brooklyn,
-N. Y., January 18, 1907.
-
-
-DICK PARKER, whose “banjoisms” attained wide popularity in the
-Metropolis more than thirty years ago, began his professional career
-about 1854.
-
-He was stock comedian at various times in New Orleans, Baltimore,
-Washington, St. Louis, Boston and New York.
-
-In 1871 in conjunction with J. E. Edwards and Jack Talbott, he formed a
-minstrel organization bearing their names.
-
-In 1889 he went to Paris, opening there with the American Circus.
-Appearing in evening clothes, preceded by four supers, and announced by
-the ring-master, Mr. Parker created a sensation.
-
-In 1879 he opened what is now known as Keeney’s Theatre in New York,
-and controlled its destinies about four years.
-
-Dick Parker was born in Troy, N. Y., in 1836; he died at Staten Island,
-N. Y., August 28, 1908.
-
-
-JOHN A. MACK was a well-known comedian and song and dance performer of
-the genteel order. He was especially well-known in California.
-
-He was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., in 1836; he died in San Rafael, Cal.,
-July 23, 1870.
-
-
-D. W. COLLINS (Carpenter), who was associated with Jack Haverly in
-Toledo, O., in the latter’s early managerial days, died at Brooklyn, N.
-Y., May 20, 1869; age 33 years.
-
-
-WM. S. BUDWORTH was well known as a banjoist and comedian, and had some
-repute for his Dutch delineations; his “Fight Mit Siegel” was best
-known.
-
-In the Spring of 1860 he was with Wood’s Minstrels on a road tour.
-
-Mr. Budworth was with Hooley’s Minstrels in April, 1864, in Brooklyn,
-and the following year he was also with Hooley at 201 Bowery, New York
-City. He was stage manager for Tunison’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, in
-the 60’s; with the Globe Minstrels at 728 Broadway, New York, in the
-Fall of 1871, and in the same city with the San Francisco Minstrels in
-1877.
-
-Mr. Budworth was also with Emerson’s Minstrels, and played frequent
-variety engagements. His last appearance was with Tony Pastor about
-twenty-five years before his death.
-
-Wm. S. Budworth was born in Philadelphia, November 25, 1836; he died at
-Mount Vernon, N. Y., January 24, 1908.
-
-
-SAM PRICE (Valleau), was a famous old-time comedian, and especially
-clever in the old negro act of the “Haunted House.” He was a great
-favorite in the South, where the colored folks would wildly enthuse
-over his performances. Mr. Price was with Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Minstrels
-in 1860, where he made a hit singing “Pretty Gal in Blue,” and playing
-the tambourine end.
-
-October 1, 1866, he opened with Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels in New
-York at their initial performance there; he continued with them for a
-lengthy period, subsequently joining Arlington, Cotton and Kemble’s
-Minstrels in Chicago. Mr. Price was also associated with many other
-prominent minstrel organizations, but had not appeared much for some
-years prior to his death.
-
-Sam Price was born in New York State, September 6, 1836; he died in
-Brooklyn, N. Y., August 28, 1907.
-
-
-CHARLES EDWIN REYNOLDS was one of the most original and unctuous
-comedians.
-
-As early as 1859 he was with the Metropolitan Ethiopean and Burlesque
-Troupe, and about 1862 was associated with Cool Burgess, and later
-Wally Thomas in a company of his own. Subsequently he was with Duprez
-and Green, Duprez and Benedict’s; Lloyd and Bidaux’; Newcomb and
-Arlington’s, and Sweatnam’s Minstrels.
-
-He was with Haverly in 1869 and 1879.
-
-Charles Edwin Reynolds was born in Belfast, Me., August 8, 1836; he
-died in Vineland, N. J., May 19, 1910.
-
-
-BILLY ARLINGTON (Valentine Burnell), was one of the great luminaries
-of minstrelsy. He achieved fame as a comedian, as a stump speaker
-and banjoist; he was a good all round performer. Mr. Arlington’s
-professional career began in the 50’s.
-
-February 20, 1860, he opened in New York with George Christy’s
-Minstrels, and was associated with the latter practically until the
-formation of Arlington and Donniker’s Minstrels in August, 1862; the
-organization was subsequently known as Arlington, Leon, Kelly and
-Donniker’s. Arlington’s Minstrels opened in Chicago in September, 1867.
-
-October 3, 1870, Mr. Arlington commenced an engagement with Welch,
-Hughes, and White’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y.
-
-April 17, 1871, Newcomb and Arlington’s Minstrels opened in New York
-for a run, subsequently for a road tour; November the same year,
-Arlington’s Minstrels again opened in Chicago; the company subsequently
-evolved into Arlington, Cotton and Kemble’s Minstrels, and as such
-continued about three years. Mr. Arlington was with Emerson’s Minstrels
-in Chicago in the Spring of 1875, subsequently touring with them.
-
-About Mr. Arlington’s last minstrel engagement was with Bartlett’s
-California Minstrels in November, 1898. Billy Arlington was born about
-1836.
-
-
-ED. H. BANKER, one of the old and tried, and “not found wanting”
-black-face performers, began his professional career at the age of 10
-years with Sam Stickney’s circus as a drummer; later he did nigger
-business in the ring.
-
-He made his first appearance in New York at “Daddy” Rice’s benefit in
-1853, doing a bone solo.
-
-Mr. Banker was with George Christy in 1865; and for some time stage
-manager at Harry Enoch’s Varieties in Philadelphia, and subsequently at
-the Olympic in New Orleans.
-
-He was the author of several successful farces, notably--“Too Hot For
-Comfort,” the “Wig Maker” and the “Colored Policeman.”
-
-Mr. Banker is also credited with being the first performer of changing
-from black to white and back again in a few seconds.
-
-At the time of his death, which occurred under suspicious
-circumstances, he was with “The Night Before Christmas” Company.
-
-Ed. H. Banker was born in New Orleans, La., December 23, 1836; he died
-at Minneapolis, Minn., October 3, 1902.
-
-
-JAPANESE TOMMY (Thomas Dilverd), was a colored man, whose height of 37
-inches made him a valuable acquisition to the many companies he was
-associated with; he was not dependent on this for his success, for he
-was a good comedian, and played male and female roles equally as well.
-
-Some of his principal engagements were with the minstrel organizations
-of Morris Brothers, Pell and Trowbridge; Kelly and Leon’s; Emerson’s
-and Sam Hague’s. His last appearance was probably with the Criterion
-Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y., March 5, 1887.
-
-Japanese Tommy was born in Brooklyn, N. Y.; he died in New York City,
-July 9, 1887; age about 50 years.
-
-
-PROF. E. J. CORNU, the well-known and efficient musical director, came
-to the United States in the late 60’s, and at once associated himself
-with Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y. When the company went to
-Chicago, opening there January 2, 1871, Mr. Cornu went with them, and
-was with Mr. Hooley several years.
-
-Mr. Cornu had been engaged by Mr. Hooley when the latter was abroad,
-for Hooley’s “Opera House”; Mr. Cornu being under the impression he was
-to be associated with a regular opera company. When he found he had to
-put cork on his face, for a long time he was inconsolable.
-
-Prof. Cornu was born in Brussels, Belgium; he died in Brooklyn, N. Y.,
-March 28, 1889.
-
-
-TOMMY JEFFERSON, an old-time banjoist and minstrel performer, who was
-with Kelly and Leon’s Company in Chicago in 1869, as well as many other
-like organizations, had been retired many years from the profession
-prior to his death at Seattle, Wash., November 1, 1897; he was 70 years
-of age.
-
-
-JAMES ROOME was a fine banjoist and good general performer. He played
-with various companies, notably Ned Davis’ Minstrels in 1867.
-
-He was born in 1837, and died in Brooklyn, N. Y., February 3, 1885.
-
-
-CLARK M. GIBBS was long recognized as an able black-face comedian.
-
-His earliest professional appearance was with a circus when he was
-eleven years of age.
-
-He had been associated with some of the best minstrel companies, and
-worked with several well-known comedians in acts, notably Cool. Burgess
-and Lew Simmons.
-
-He was twice married; a son, Clark Gibbs, Jr., who was also in the
-profession for a time, is in Trenton, N. J.
-
-Clark M. Gibbs was born in Chillicothe, Ohio, March 6, 1837; he died in
-Trenton, N. J., August 20, 1901.
-
-
-IRA PAINE, the famous sharpshooter, played several minstrel engagements
-as a ballad singer, notably Carncross and Dixey’s in Philadelphia in
-1862, and the San Franciscos in New York, in August, 1869.
-
-[Illustration: A PROMINENT BOSTON COMPANY; 1859.
-
- LON MORRIS
-
- J. T. TROWBRIDGE
-
- JOHNNY PELL
-
- BILLY MORRIS]
-
-[Illustration: A FAMOUS NEW YORK ORGANIZATION; 1865.
-
- BILLY BIRCH
-
- DAVE WAMBOLD
-
- WM. H. BERNARD
-
- CHARLEY BACKUS]
-
-He was born at Hebronville, Mass., February 17, 1837; he died in Paris,
-France, September 10, 1889.
-
-
-W. W. PIERCE (Billy McMahon), was a well-known young comedian of
-promise.
-
-In the Spring of 1860 he played an engagement at Bob Butler’s Variety
-Theatre in New York, where he made a pronounced hit dancing the “Essence
-of Old Virginny.”
-
-He died in Herkimer, N. Y., January 2, 1864; age 27 years.
-
-
-AMBROSE A. THAYER, a young singer who was prominent with the Morris
-Brothers, Pell and Trowbridge Minstrels, in Boston, died there, June 10,
-1863; age 26 years.
-
-
-BILLY QUINN was one of the best dancers of his day, and played
-conspicuous minstrel engagements, notably with Bryant’s in New York,
-commencing October 12, 1857.
-
-He was the husband of the celebrated danseuse, Mary Blake, who
-subsequently married Bobby Newcomb.
-
-Billy Quinn died in New York City, November 29, 1863; age 26 years.
-
-
-COOPER AND FIELDS were one of the very best double clog dancing teams in
-minstrelsy, as well as one of the earliest.
-
-In 1864 they were with the Raynor “Christy” Minstrels, and the
-following year they joined the San Francisco minstrels in New York;
-subsequently they were with Kelly and Leon’s, and Buckley’s Minstrels
-in the same city. They played an engagement with Haverly’s Minstrels in
-June, 1869.
-
-James Cooper was in business in Paterson, N. J., several years prior to
-his death. His last professional appearance was also in Paterson.
-
-James H. Cooper died in Paterson, N. J., January 24, 1905, age 68 years.
-
-William Fields died in New York City November 18, 1883.
-
-
-SIG. RAPHAEL ABECCO gained distinction in minstrelsy chiefly for his
-excellent performance on the harp; but was also a fine tenor singer,
-and a composer of repute.
-
-As early as October 20, 1857, he was with Matt. Peel’s Minstrels, and
-continued with Peel until the latter’s death in 1859. August 27, 1860,
-he began a season’s engagement at Sanford’s Minstrels in Philadelphia;
-in the Spring of 1861 fulfilling a short season with Unsworth’s
-Minstrels; he returned to Sanford’s for the season of 1861-62.
-
-July 7, 1862, he opened with Wood’s Minstrels in New York City, and
-in 1863 Birch, Cotton, Wells and Abecco’s Minstrels inaugurated their
-season in San Francisco. In 1865 he sailed for Australia and remained
-abroad until 1872. January 9, 1875 he opened with Simmons and Slocum’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia, and the following season was a member of
-Simmons, Slocum and Sweatnam’s Minstrels in the same city. His last
-engagement was with Emerson’s Minstrels, December 25, 1878.
-
-Sig. Abecco was of foreign birth; he died in Chicago, Ill., January 3,
-1879; age 42 years.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- HI. HENRY
-
- LOW. GAYLORD
-
- “JACK” HAVERLY
-
- JOHN KING
-
- CHAS. QUEEN
-
-ALL GOOD DRAWING CARDS--=HI=, =LOW=, =JACK=, =KING= and =QUEEN=.]
-
-
-FRANK B. CONVERSE. The name of Converse is indissolubly associated with
-all that is great in banjo playing.
-
-Mr. Converse began the study of music at the immature age of 6; at 14
-he took up the banjo, devoting all his spare time to study. His first
-professional appearance was with McFarland, in Detroit.
-
-He joined Matt. Peel’s Minstrels in 1856, remaining until the Spring of
-1858.
-
-Subsequently he gave banjo lessons in Memphis, Tenn. Later he joined
-Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Minstrels; March 19, 1867, with George Coes and Sam
-Purdy, organized Purdy, Coes and Converse’s Minstrels. Mr. Converse at
-various times had schools in St. Louis, San Francisco and New York.
-
-He was the author of many high-class works on the banjo, including a
-book for beginners.
-
-Frank B. Converse was born in Westfield, Mass., June 17, 1837; he died
-in New York City, September 5, 1903.
-
-
-“CHUCK” (CHARLES H.) ATKINSON, one of the great bone players of
-minstrelsy, when the artistic handling of them was an art, began his
-professional career in 1847, being then known as Master Charles, a
-singer with one of the early organizations; shortly afterwards he was
-with the famous “Yankee” Locke for a period of five weeks. What might
-be termed his regular career began a little later with John Carle
-(Uncle John, the “Lively Flea”); he remained with Carle three years;
-subsequently going to Boston, where he was several years in stock.
-
-He played frequently with the Morris Brothers in Boston, and succeeded
-Joe Murphy after the latter had separated from Ben Cotton; Murphy
-himself was a great bone performer, and Atkinson simply had to be good
-to hold the position he did with so much credit.
-
-Other engagements were Boyce & Mudge’s Minstrels, 1866, and “Green’s
-Mocking Bird Minstrels” in 1871; his last minstrel engagement was with
-Sam Sharpley. He retired from the profession about 20 years before his
-death.
-
-Charles Atkinson was born at Limington, Maine, December 1, 1837; he
-died at Brookline, Mass., February 2, 1909.
-
-
-TOM MCNALLY was one of the premier “leaders” and violinists of
-minstrelsy.
-
-In 1859 he was at Burtis’ Varieties in Brooklyn, N. Y.; the following
-year he joined Cool White’s Broadway Minstrels.
-
-In 1861 he was with George Christy’s company, and the same year was
-also with William Christy’s and Fox and Sharpley’s Minstrels.
-
-October 28, 1861, he was with Hooley’s Minstrels at their first
-performance in New York. Mr. McNally was with Hooley also when the
-latter went to Brooklyn, N. Y., opening in September, 1862; he
-continued with Hooley several seasons.
-
-Early in 1866 he was with Wood’s Minstrels, and on October 21, that
-year, he sailed for Europe with the American Minstrels; they opened in
-London, December 5, 1866.
-
-Subsequently Mr. McNally returned to the United States, and at various
-times was associated with several prominent minstrel organizations.
-
-Tom McNally was born in Albany, N. Y.; he died in Brooklyn, N. Y., May
-25, 1872; age 35 years.
-
-
-J. H. HAVERLY (Christopher Haverly) began his theatrical career in 1864
-in Toledo, O., where he purchased a variety theatre, and conducted
-until December, 1866.
-
-There are many to-day who think that the great showman, who was the
-first to place minstrelsy on a gigantic scale, began as a minstrel
-manager with Cal. Wagner in 1870. Such is far from being the truth.
-
-The first performance of Haverly’s Minstrels was given at Adrian,
-Mich., August 1, 1864; the season terminated at Ypsilanti, Mich., on
-the 25th of August, same year.
-
-On October 8, 1864, Cool Burgess and Haverly’s Minstrels were
-inaugurated at Toronto, Canada, and November 1, it was again Haverly’s
-Minstrels; it remained as such until December 27, following, when
-Charles Mallory, who had a minstrel company, formed an alliance with
-Mr. Haverly, and on the above date at Titusville, Pa., Haverly and
-Mallory’s Combination Minstrels gave their first performance.
-
-In 1866 Haverly and (Dick) Sands’ Minstrels toured for several weeks,
-and the following year Mr. Haverly assumed the management of Billy
-Arlington’s Minstrels. Haverly’s Minstrels were again organized, and at
-Peoria, Ill., November 11, 1868, gave their initial performance; the
-season closed in the Summer of 1869.
-
-In the Fall of 1870, he assumed the management of Cal. Wagner’s
-Minstrels, and continued with them for three years, after which, in
-November, 1873, at Kansas City, Mo., Haverly’s Minstrels began in
-earnest. Not satisfied with one minstrel company, he purchased an
-interest from Tom Maguire in Emerson’s Minstrels in October, 1875;
-secured the New Orleans Minstrels in 1876, and Callender’s Colored
-Minstrels in 1878. In the meantime he purchased the Adelphi Theatre in
-Chicago, in 1876; the first of the very many he ultimately owned or
-controlled.
-
-October 21, 1878, he organized his famous Mastodons in Chicago; they
-opened in London, England, July 30, 1880, at Her Majesty’s Theatre,
-where they played seventeen weeks.
-
-In May, 1884, they returned to London, and made a tour of the
-Provinces, where the final performance was given in Glasgow, Scotland,
-late in February, 1885.
-
-Haverly’s Minstrels continued for several years after that; the last
-company in which Mr. Haverly was directly interested began a season in
-the Summer of 1898. His last amusement venture began in Brooklyn, N.
-Y., May 11, 1901, where for a brief period he conducted a small museum.
-
-“Jack” Haverly was a fine man and a lovable character; none did more
-for minstrelsy than he, and some of the greatest names in theatricals
-were once associated with him.
-
-He was twice married; his wives being the Duval (Hechinger) Sisters,
-well-known vocalists.
-
-Mrs. Sara Haverly died at Toledo, O., March 1, 1867; subsequently he
-married Eliza Duval, who died in New York, July 4, 1910.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- R. M. HOOLEY
-
- CHAS. A. MORRIS
-
- AL. G. FIELD
-
- GEO. R. GUY
-
- D. C. LA RUE
-
- HARRY ROBINSON
-
-HEADS OF FAMOUS MINSTREL ORGANIZATIONS; PAST AND PRESENT.]
-
-J. H. Haverly was born in Bellefonte, Pa., June 30, 1837; he died in
-Salt Lake City, Utah, September 28, 1901.
-
-
-ADD RYMAN (John Addison Ryman) was one of the greatest burlesque actors
-that minstrelsy ever knew.
-
-He was likewise famed as a stump orator, in which he was different from
-all of his contemporaries.
-
-His debut as a minstrel was made in 1859. In 1871, Hart, Ryman, and
-Barney’s Minstrels were organized. Subsequently he was with Emerson’s
-Minstrels in San Francisco, and with the San Francisco Minstrels in New
-York about six years.
-
-He left the above company with George Thatcher, and opened Thatcher and
-Ryman’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, December 20, 1880, as a permanent
-organization.
-
-In 1882 he took a minstrel company to Australia, remaining about two
-years. He later re-engaged with Emerson’s Minstrels, and in September,
-1887, with Wm. Henry Rice and John Hart, organized a company bearing
-their names.
-
-Mr. Ryman’s late years were with dramatic companies. Add Ryman was born
-in Ohio; he died (suicide) in New York, June 27, 1896; age 59 years.
-
-
-SID C. FRANCE, famous for many years for his drama “Marked for
-Life,” in which he enacted a black-face part which was the principal
-character, was born in Landsport, England, October 4, 1838; he died in
-New York, May 25, 1895.
-
-
-THE NORTON BROTHERS made their first appearance as the Norton Family in
-Roxbury, Mass., in 1848 or 1849; accounts vary.
-
-Wash. Norton subsequently went with Ordway’s Aeolians in Boston, where
-he remained a long time. November 14, 1859, Wash. and Tim Norton opened
-at Bryant’s Minstrels in New York.
-
-When seventeen months later, Jerry Bryant died, it was Tim Norton who
-took his place; Wash. having left New York about a month previous for
-England, later visiting Africa and Australia; in the latter country
-they declared he was the best burlesque dancer that ever visited their
-shores.
-
-Wash. returned to the United States in 1866, and remained six years; he
-subsequently made two other trips to foreign lands. The Nortons were
-good comedians, and great dancers.
-
-Tim Norton died January 25, 1862, in New York, age 24 years.
-
-John Norton died in Philadelphia, Pa., January 24, 1868.
-
-Wash. Norton was born in New Orleans, La., February 22, 1839; he died
-in Shasta Co., Cal., November 16, 1899.
-
-
-DAN. SHELBY (Macher), who was the well-known manager of the Adelphi
-Theatre in Buffalo, N. Y., and the Academy of Music and Columbia
-Theatre in Chicago, at various times, began his professional career in
-Paris, Ind., in 1853; it was there he first blacked up.
-
-He played several minstrel and circus engagements until 1865, when he
-launched Shelby’s Minstrels; in 1868 he again put a minstrel company on
-the road. Mr. Shelby was subsequently a clown in a circus.
-
-Dan. Shelby was born in Gettysburg, Pa., January 1, 1838; he died in
-Wilkesbarre, Pa., February 4, 1895.
-
-
-FAYETTE WELCH (Patrick Walsh). The career of this once celebrated
-comedian which was suddenly and violently ended, commenced about fifty
-years ago.
-
-He joined Hooley’s Minstrels in the late 60’s, and became a great
-favorite in the Brooklyn playhouse. In the Summer of 1869 he was with
-Haverly’s Minstrels, and while with that company did an act which he
-called the Musical Sensation, playing on a number of instruments,
-concluding by dancing a jig, accompanying himself by playing a flute at
-the same time.
-
-Mr. Welch next went with Kelly and Leon’s Company, and in August, 1870,
-joined Buckley’s Serenaders in New York.
-
-The following month, commencing the 12th, he became co-proprietor of
-Welch, Hughes and White’s Minstrels, a permanent company in Brooklyn,
-N. Y.; they continued there about a year.
-
-Mr. Welch subsequently appeared with Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia. He was with Haverly’s when that gentleman organized his
-company in November, 1873, and with Neil Bryant’s Minstrels five years
-later. During an altercation between Mr. Welch and William Gould, a
-vaudeville performer, the latter shot and immediately killed Fayette
-Welch in Boston, Mass., March 6, 1892.
-
-Mr. Welch was born in Galway, Ireland, about 1838.
-
-
-JAMES W. LAMONT (Williams) was prominent for many years as a baritone
-vocalist and interlocutor in minstrelsy. In 1864 he was with Sharpley’s
-Minstrels, and in 1880 with Kyle’s “Christy’s” in Boston.
-
-The major portion of his career was spent in Philadelphia, where he
-went in the 60’s as a member of Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Lamont died in Philadelphia, December 24, 1894; age 56 years.
-
- * * * * *
-
-“Leon,” the dean of minstrel female impersonators, did a stump speech
-with Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels, January, 1870.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-PETE LEE (Shea) was conceded to be one of the greatest tambourinists in
-minstrelsy; as a comedian, he was excellent.
-
-As early as February, 1858, he was touring with Pete Lee’s Empire
-Minstrels.
-
-He joined Buckley’s Serenaders in the 60’s, and continued with them for
-several seasons.
-
-August 28, 1871, he made his first appearance in Philadelphia, as a
-member of Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels.
-
-He was also prominently identified with the companies of Morris
-Brothers, and Sharpley’s. In 1872 he opened Bishop’s Opera House in
-St. Johns, N. B., renaming it Lee’s Opera House, and conducting it for
-several years.
-
-His last professional appearance was about 1878.
-
-A son, Wilbor F. Shea, is manager of the Memorial Opera House,
-Eastport, Me.
-
-Pete Lee was born in Cambridge, Mass., January 6, 1838; he died in
-Eastport, Me., October 11, 1896.
-
-
-J. R. KEMBLE (Taylor), one of the best interlocutors of minstrelsy,
-made his debut at Paterson, N. J., February 2, 1863, with Hart and
-Simmon’s Minstrels, appearing under his own name.
-
-Subsequently he joined the Morris’ Minstrels, remaining five years.
-
-Later he became a member of Emerson and Manning’s Minstrels, and after
-these artists separated early in 1870, Mr. Kemble cast his fortunes
-with the latter in Chicago. In that same city (Billy) Arlington, (Ben)
-Cotton and Kemble’s Minstrels were organized in 1871, and continued
-there about three years.
-
-In 1875 Mr. Kemble was with Emerson’s Minstrels in Chicago.
-
-He was also a member of the Dearborn Minstrels in the Illinois
-Metropolis, opening August 21, 1871.
-
-Likewise in Chicago did he join Haverly’s Minstrels, March 11,
-1878, and September 16, same year, he began a brief engagement with
-Sweatnam’s Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-Mr. Kemble then went to England, and was with Moore and Burgess’
-Minstrels for about twenty years.
-
-He married Miss Ella Turner, an actress, about 1870.
-
-J. R. Kemble was born in Kent, England, 1838; he died in London,
-England, June 11, 1908.
-
-
-GEORGE W. CHARLES, the old-time wench dancer made his first appearance
-at the International Theatre in New York in 1852; subsequently he was
-with Dave. Reed’s Minstrels on Spalding and Rogers’ boat the “James
-Raymond,” this was as early as July 18, 1856; after this he did
-sketches with Billy Coleman. In 1869 he was with Carncross and Dixey’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia; he remained there several seasons, and was a
-prime favorite.
-
-Mr. Charles was among the earliest black-face prima donnas.
-
-George W. Charles died in New York City, May 8, 1885; age 47 years.
-
-
-KIT CLARKE (Morse Myers) is one of the oldest living minstrel managers.
-His professional career began in 1858 as a programmer with the
-Satterlee and Bell Circus; Mr. Clarke continued in the circus business
-practically for twenty years.
-
-In 1877 he became general manager for M. B. Leavitt’s attractions, and
-continued until 1881, in which year he managed the Gigantean Minstrels.
-
-His next engagement was with J. H. Haverly’s Minstrels, with whom he
-remained three years.
-
-Later he retired from theatrical life to enter mercantile business.
-
-Kit Clarke was born February 21, 1838, in New York City.
-
-
-BILLY ALLEN was a well-known jig and “Essence” dancer in the 60’s,
-playing some of the principal minstrel organizations of that period,
-such as Arlington’s; Fred. Wilson’s; Mrs. Matt. Peel’s; Skiff and
-Gaylord’s; George Christy’s, and Carncross and Dixey’s. He subsequently
-gave dancing lessons in Chicago. In his early career he was known as
-one of the best dressed men in the profession.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- RAYMOND HITCHCOCK
-
- GEO. FROTHINGHAM
-
- JAS. J. CORBETT
-
-IF YOU DON’T BELIEVE IT, ASK THEM.]
-
-Billy Allen died in Chicago, August 19, 1890; age 52 years.
-
-
-SAM COLE, the real old-time black-face comedian, is in no way related
-to the old king of that name; though he has associated with them for
-many years; also queens and jacks.
-
-Mr. Cole is said to be amongst the living. But who has the address?
-
-
-LEW SIMMONS has the distinction of being the oldest active black-face
-performer in the world.
-
-He commenced his career as an amateur in Warren, O., in 1849, playing
-the banjo, in black-face.
-
-In 1857 Mr. Simmons went to Jake Beler’s Music Hall in Detroit, Mich.,
-where he did his little turn for one dollar per night, and four beer
-tickets; which being a minor, he was unable to use.
-
-In December, 1859, he made his first New York appearance at the popular
-Melodeon. In 1861 he joined Hooley and Campbell’s Minstrels, and early
-in 1863 in conjunction with Bob Hart organized a minstrel company
-bearing their names.
-
-Subsequently he played an engagement with the Morris Minstrels, and on
-August 22, 1864, made his first appearance at Carncross and Dixey’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia, where he became a great local favorite. He
-remained with that company until within a few months of the opening
-of Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels at the Arch Street Opera House in
-Philadelphia (which was built for them), August 29, 1870. Mr. Simmons
-continued at this house intermittently until 1878. In the fall of
-1875, Billy Sweatnam was admitted as a partner, under the firm name of
-Simmons, Slocum and Sweatnam’s Minstrels; in October, 1876, Simmons and
-Slocum withdrew. September 11, 1886, Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels
-again opened at their old home in Philadelphia. In 1878 Mr. Simmons
-visited England and South Africa professionally.
-
-About twenty years ago he played Uncle Eph., an aged negro, in “Shiloh.”
-
-He left the profession in the 80’s, vowing never to return, but he did,
-in the early 90’s; Clark Gibbs, Tommy Harris and Frank H. White, with
-whom he is now playing vaudeville, were his partners at various times.
-
-Did I say that he was one of the owners of the Athletic Club of the
-American Association, which won the championship in 1883? Well, he was.
-
-Lew Simmons was born in New Castle, Pa., August 27, 1838.
-
-
-J. H. SURRIDGE was one of the prominent singers of minstrelsy. His
-first appearance was with Hart and Simmons’ Minstrels early in 1863.
-That same year he joined the Morris Minstrels, and in 1865 was with
-Raynor’s “Christy’s.”
-
-In April, 1866, he opened with J. H. Clifford’s Great American
-Minstrels; April 17, company closed at Troy, N. Y. September 10, 1866,
-he opened with Sands and Herbert’s Minstrels.
-
-With Sweeny, Hussey and Felton’s Company, he sailed for Hong Kong,
-October 11, 1866; storm tossed he returned to New York five days later;
-another five days he again set sail for Ireland and England, opening in
-London, December 5, 1866. Early in 1867 he went to play an engagement
-with “Pony” Moore and his associates, also in London.
-
-Mr. Surridge arrived back in the United States, November 23, 1868,
-and shortly after joined Kelly and Leon’s Company at their New York
-theatre. He continued with them when they opened in Chicago, March
-2, 1869, and subsequently was one of Kelly and Leon’s “Associated
-Artists,” after these two performers went to England.
-
-Later Mr. Surridge joined Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y.,
-and with Susie Galton’s Opera Company played the Dutch comedy part,
-succeeding W. H. Crane.
-
-On April 17, 1871, he opened in New York City with Newcomb and
-Arlington’s Minstrels.
-
-January 22, 1872, he became a member of Arlington, Cotton and Kemble’s
-Minstrels in Chicago, and continued with them about three years, after
-which he joined E. M. Hall, E. M. Kayne and Ned Wambold’s Minstrels,
-April 10, 1875. That same year Mr. Surridge rejoined Kelly and Leon’s
-Company, and continued with them when in February, 1878, they sailed
-for Australia. He returned in February, 1879, and joined M. B.
-Leavitt’s Company in San Francisco.
-
-In the Summer of 1879 he entered the hotel business at Rockaway Beach,
-N. Y., and in the Fall of that year joined Pat Rooney’s Company as
-manager.
-
-The following season of 1880-81, was at the London Theatre in New
-York. In the Fall of 1881 he went to Hopkins and Morrow’s Theatre in
-Providence, R. I., for a brief stay, leaving there to join Haverly’s
-Minstrels, where he remained but two weeks, when he joined M. B.
-Leavitt and continued with him as manager for the latter’s attractions
-until 1883, when he went to London, England, with “Evangeline,” in
-which he played Catharine; this engagement was followed by one with
-Moore and Burgess’ Minstrels, also in London.
-
-Mr. Surridge returned to New York in February, 1884, and at once joined
-the Leon and Cushman combination.
-
-In the Fall of 1884 he assumed the management of Dick Gorman, in “The
-Hand of a Friend.” He piloted the same attraction season of 1885-86,
-after which he retired from theatricals and went into business in New
-York.
-
-J. H. Surridge was born in London, England, January 27, 1838; he died
-in New York City, March 30, 1910.
-
-
-ROLLIN HOWARD (Ebenezer G. B. Holder) was one of the most cultured and
-capable female impersonators of minstrelsy.
-
-He appeared on the legitimate stage for about five years previous
-to his minstrel debut, which was made with Wood’s Minstrels in the
-Spring of 1860. In the Fall of that year, for a brief period, he was
-associated in the management of Howard and Campbell’s Minstrels.
-
-February 4, 1861, he made his first appearance with Hooley and
-Campbell’s Minstrels in New York, and for several seasons played
-successful engagements with nearly every prominent minstrel company
-there was.
-
-About 1870 he left minstrelsy, and after a period in opera, played
-several years in variety houses. In 1868 he played Topsy in “Uncle
-Tom’s Cabin,” and in 1878 was manager of the Melodeon in Philadelphia.
-
-His last appearance was with his own company.
-
-Rollin Howard was born in New York City about 1840; he died in Boston,
-Mass., June 19, 1879.
-
-
-MASTER BARNEY (Bernard Scholar) was one of the greatest dancers in
-minstrelsy. His first appearance was at Burtis’ Varieties in Brooklyn,
-N. Y., about 1858; he met Add. Weaver here, and was associated with him
-several years.
-
-In 1859 he joined Campbell’s Minstrells, and subsequently with such
-well-known organizations as Morris Brothers, Pell and Trowbridge, Mrs.
-Matt. Peel’s, Hooley and Campbell’s and others.
-
-July 17, 1869, was organized Dougherty, Wild, Barney and Mac’s
-Minstrels; subsequently Hughey Dougherty retiring, the company
-continued for a brief period.
-
-In 1871 it was Hart, Ryman and Barney’s Minstrels.
-
-About that time Master Barney formed a partnership with Sam Rickey,
-playing sketches, of which “Bad Whiskey” was the most successful.
-
-They separated about 1877, and later he formed an alliance with Barney
-McNulty, being known as the Two Barneys.
-
-“Master” Barney was born in Buffalo, N. Y., December 29, 1839; he died
-in Brooklyn, N. Y., February 25, 1886.
-
-
-JAMES GLENN (McDonald) was a well-known vocalist in the good old days
-of minstrelsy.
-
-His first appearance was made with Sam Sanford’s Minstrels in 1858; he
-continued with him, chiefly in Philadelphia, until 1862, when he joined
-Wood’s Minstrels in New York, with whom he remained a lengthy period.
-
-Subsequently he was with the San Franciscos in New York, and Hooley’s
-in Brooklyn, N. Y.
-
-James Glenn was born in Philadelphia in 1839; he died in New York,
-February 26, 1870.
-
-
-BILLY MANNING. Minstrels may come and go, but like the brook, the name
-and fame of this brilliant performer seems destined to live forever;
-for while more than three decades have passed since Billy Manning
-passed away, each generation in his native city seems as familiar with
-his former stage triumphs as those that were contemporaneous with him.
-
-His career started in 1859, on the boat “Dixie”; where Manning, who was
-very proficient with the “bones,” played an end with a minstrel show.
-
-In the fall of 1862 he was with Campbell’s Minstrels, and on November
-23, 1863, he joined Morningstar’s company. The engagement was a brief
-one, and he next opened with Rumsey’s Minstrels, with whom he closed
-May 27, 1864; opening with Hooley in Brooklyn, three days later.
-
-That same year he was with Morris and Wilson’s Minstrels, and in 1865
-with Dan Shelby’s Company. Engagements with Kunkel’s Nightingales;
-Haight and Chamber’s Circus and LaRue’s Minstrels followed.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- LUKE WEST
-
- NED WEST
-
-“LOOKING WEST.”
-
- ARTHUR RIGBY
-
- ARTHUR DEMING
-
-A PAIR OF ARTISTIC ARTHURS
-
- MASTER BARNEY
-
- SAM RICKEY
-
-THEY WERE ALWAYS MASTERS.]
-
-In September, 1867, he joined Newcomb’s Minstrels, continuing with
-this company until the following Summer, when he left Newcomb, and in
-association with Billy Emerson and Johnny Allen, formed a minstrel
-company bearing their names.
-
-May 22, 1869, Mr. Allen dropped out of the organization, which was
-thereafter known as Emerson and Manning’s. In January, 1870, in
-Chicago, the partners separated, and Manning continued at the Dearborn
-Theatre in that city with Manning’s Minstrels, where he remained
-several months.
-
-Under the financial management of Tom Foley, of Chicago, the company
-went on tour in the Fall of 1871, giving their first performance at
-Xenia, Ohio, October 19.
-
-July 6, 1872, Mr. Manning severed his association as head of the
-company, which subsequently was known as Newcomb’s Minstrels, in
-Cincinnati. September 2, 1872, in that city, he began a brief
-engagement with Wm. Henry Rice’s Minstrels, and on October 28 he opened
-with Frank Moran’s Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-At the end of the season Mr. Manning became associated with Moran,
-and opened in Pittsburg, Pa., April 21, 1873, as Moran and Manning’s
-Minstrels. Mr. Manning then went to San Francisco, where, June 30, he
-began an extended engagement with Maguire’s Minstrels, terminating
-February 21 following. April 6, he made his first appearance with
-Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, where he finished the
-balance of that season.
-
-His debut with Kelly and Leon’s Company in Chicago was made August 31,
-1874, where, with only a slight break, he played all that season.
-
-July 12, 1875, he commenced a brief engagement with Neil Bryant’s
-Minstrels, and on November 8, Billy Manning, who was then far from
-being a well man, began what was destined to be his last engagement,
-with his old partner, Billy Emerson, with the latter’s minstrels.
-
-January 9, 1870, he married Mollie Williams, a well-known actress.
-
-Billy Manning was born in Piqua, Ohio, May 15, 1839; he died in
-Chicago, Ill., May 19, 1876.
-
-
-CHARLEY GARDNER (Bumberry), known as “Hop Light Loo” Gardner, from the
-fact that he originated the black-face song and dance of that name for
-the first time at an amateur minstrel performance in Augusta, Ga.; this
-was in the late 50’s.
-
-In 1861 he was with Duprez and Green’s Minstrels, and later with
-Burgess, Prendergast and LaRue’s Minstrels. Early in 1867 he toured
-with “Cool” Burgess with a minstrel company bearing their names.
-
-Mr. Gardner played a brief engagement with the San Francisco Minstrels
-in New York, and with Emerson and Manning’s Company in Chicago.
-
-He was the author of the following songs: “Sift Sand Sal,” “Walk Dad
-Lou” and “Over in Jersey.”
-
-Charley Gardner was born in Toronto, Canada, July 24, 1839; he died in
-Long Island City, N. Y., May 17, 1909.
-
-
-DICK MCGOWAN was well-known as a banjoist and a comedian in the 60’s;
-during which period he was with Yankee Hill’s Minstrels, Harris and
-Smith’s, Dick McGowan’s, and some more. As Mr. McGowan failed to keep
-his promise and give the author more data, this sketch must necessarily
-be curtailed. Sorry. Mr. McGowan was born in New York, December 28,
-1839.
-
-
-JOHNNY “FROGGY” PIERCE (Owens) was a well-known comedian and had been
-identified with various prominent minstrel companies, notably Ordway’s,
-in Boston, in 1859; Lloyd’s, 1861; Rumsey’s, 1864; Coes, Purdy and
-Converse’s, 1867; Emerson’s, 1870, and many others. He died in New
-York, June 2, 1892; age 53 years.
-
-
-JOHN W. THOMPSON (Fitzpatrick), known of late years as a manager
-only in the South and Southwest; in his early days was a well-known
-black-face performer, and a great jig dancer at a time when that style
-of dancing prevailed.
-
-Mr. Thompson’s first appearance was made in Buffalo, N. Y., about 1860.
-At one time he was associated and did an act with Oscar Willis.
-
-He was manager at various times of theatres in Memphis, Tenn.;
-Vicksburg, Miss., and Dallas, Texas, covering a period of 28 years.
-
-John W. Thompson was born in Dublin, Ireland, June 4, 1839; he died at
-Dallas, Texas, February 27, 1907.
-
-
-JAMES GAYNOR made his first professional appearance with Sharpley’s
-Minstrels about 1859, as second violinist.
-
-He played several engagements at Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, during
-the 70’s, where his banjo playing met with pronounced success; he was
-equally prominent during the same period at the Howard in Boston.
-November 29, 1876, Gaynor and Mudge’s (Hank) opened at Butler, Pa.
-
-Mr. Gaynor was also with Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Minstrels in May, 1860.
-
-James Gaynor was born in Troy, N. Y., about 1839; he died in Brooklyn,
-N. Y., May 29, 1906.
-
-
-JOHN T. BOYCE was one of the best black-face comedians of his day, and
-one of the earliest performers to sing an Irish song on the end.
-
-His first appearance was with Birch, Bowers and Fox’s Minstrels in
-California, about 1857; later he was a performer on the steamer
-“Banjo,” which plied the Mississippi. Mr. Boyce afterward appeared
-with such well-known organizations as Woods, in New York; Hooley’s, in
-Brooklyn, and Sanford’s.
-
-May 7, 1866, with Hank Mudge, he launched Boyce and Mudge’s Minstrels,
-and later was a member of Griffin and Christy’s Minstrels.
-
-His last appearance was in June, 1867.
-
-John T. Boyce was born in Covington, Ky., about 1839; he died in
-Brooklyn, N. Y., June 11, 1867.
-
-
-“MARSH” ADAMS (Marshall Anderson), an excellent and most natural
-delineator of the old Southern darky, began his stage career at the
-Race Street Varieties, Cincinnati, in the late 60’s; he remained there
-until 1871, when he joined the Hart, Ryman and Barney Minstrels;
-for a brief period he did an act with Milt. Barlow. In 1873 he went
-to the Metropolitan Theatre in Indianapolis, remaining until 1878;
-subsequently he was identified with various circuses, also Haverly’s
-Minstrels; and for a time with Walter Le Roy.
-
-It is said that he was the first to sing “Old Black Joe” as a character
-song.
-
-His last appearance was April 15, 1885.
-
-Marsh Adams was born in Louisville, Ky., January 11, 1839; he died in
-Indianapolis, Ind., May 11, 1885.
-
-
-CHARLES E. DOBSON was one of the great banjoists of minstrelsy.
-
-His first appearance was at Winsted, Conn., in 1856, with Sam Hague’s
-Concert Company.
-
-Subsequently he played in the stock of the old Chatham Theatre, New
-York, and later played in the orchestra of Wallack’s Theatre, same
-city, at Thirteenth and Broadway.
-
-In 1867 he went to Europe, under the management of Corbin and Wall;
-while there he again joined Sam Hague’s Georgia Minstrels, playing
-London and the provinces. On his return to the United States he played
-all the principal variety houses, later organized the Dobson Bros.
-Minstrels. Mr. Dobson was also associated in a business capacity with
-the Worrell Sisters, the Chapman Sisters, and the Wallace Sisters:
-with the latter he was with in 1878. March 29, 1879, he married Minnie
-Wallace. They had a son, Frank Wallace, a clever black-face performer.
-
-About twenty-five years ago Mr. Dobson won a gold medal in a banjo
-tournament at Madison Square Garden, New York City.
-
-Chas. E. Dobson was born in New York City, July 21, 1839; he died there
-January 18, 1910.
-
-
-LEW BENEDICT. The name of Lew Benedict is one of the most prominent in
-minstrelsy; as an end man and stump speaker he excelled, but he was
-equally at home in anything he undertook.
-
-Mr. Benedict’s first appearance was in the late 50’s, when he danced
-the “Essence”; he was then known as Johnny Hodson.
-
-But his real professional career commenced April 6, 1861, when he
-joined Duprez and Green’s Minstrels; he continued with them until 1865,
-when he bought out Mr. Green’s interest; the organization was then
-known as Duprez and Benedict’s Minstrels until 1876, when Mr. Benedict
-and Mr. Duprez dissolved partnership.
-
-Mr. Benedict then joined Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels in New York City in
-the Spring of 1876; he remained until September 16; five days later he
-opened at Newark, N. J., with Benedict’s Minstrels; the company closed
-at Washington, D. C., December 30, 1876; he subsequently returned to
-Kelly and Leon’s.
-
-In 1878 he ran a variety theatre in Milwaukee, Wis.
-
-Mr. Benedict was with Leavitt’s Gigantean Minstrels in 1881, and in
-later years with Cleveland’s, Vogel’s, Gorman Bros., and Great Barlow
-Minstrels.
-
-April 17, 1871, he married Eva De La Motta, at Mansfield, Ohio, and on
-February 17, 1881, in New York City, he married Miss Fanny Mouris.
-
-Of late years Mr. Benedict has been playing vaudeville.
-
-Lew Benedict was born in Kingston, Canada, December 6, 1839.
-
-
-CARL RUDOLPH (Wilbur Fiske Barrell), one of the most prominent
-balladists in minstrelsy, began his career in St. Louis, Mo., doing
-concert work; from which it was but a short step to burnt-cork honors.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- LEW.--HAWKINS & COLLINS--BEN.
-
- LAMONT & DUCROW
-
- GEO. & WILLIE GUY
- (1866)
-
- JNO. P.--HOGAN & HUGHES--RUEY
- (1871)]
-
-Mr. Rudolph was one of the original members of Billy Emerson’s
-Minstrels, February 11, 1870.
-
-In the Summer of 1872 he was with Sam Sharpley in New York, and that
-same year in the same city rejoined Emerson.
-
-In August, 1877, Mr. Rudolph was with Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and
-West’s Minstrels at the initial performance of that organization.
-
-Season of 1873 he joined Bryant’s Minstrels in New York City; the
-major portion of the balance of his theatrical career was spent in
-Philadelphia with Carncross’ Minstrels.
-
-Carl Rudolph was born in Aspenham, Mass., October 29, 1839; he died in
-Brooklyn, N. Y., August 8, 1909.
-
-
-J. K. BUCKLEY (Kiley), noted for his splendid execution on the banjo,
-an the use of the supplementary fifth string, first played the banjo in
-1861. On June 6, 1868, he launched Buckley’s Minstrels at Newark, N. J.
-
-He was one of Haverly’s 12 banjoists, and went to Europe with the
-Mastodons, opening at Drury Lane Theatre, London, July 31, 1880.
-
-He was associated with the late John M. Turner for a considerable
-period; the partnership dissolved November 11, 1876.
-
-J. K. Buckley was born in New York City January 21, 1839.
-
-
-JOSEPH H. CHILDS was equally well known to dramatic, variety and
-minstrel patrons, and up to about ten years before his death was
-considered one of the best clog dancers before the public.
-
-In 1877-78 he was in the stock at the National Theatre, Cincinnati.
-
-Jos. H. Childs was born in England; he died in Cincinnati, Ohio,
-November 10, 1880; age 41 years.
-
-
-WALLY THOMAS, prominent as a jig and clog dancer, a fine drummer and a
-good all-round general performer of Sharpley’s Minstrels in the early
-60’s, died at Lowell, Mass., May 29, 1864; age 25 years.
-
-
-LEWIS J. DONNELLY, well-known in his day as a first-class black-face
-female impersonator, died in New York City, October 26, 1869; age 30
-years.
-
-
-GUS HOWARD was a pupil of George Christy, and made his first appearance
-with Wood and Christy’s Minstrels in New York in 1855.
-
-He was an exceptionally versatile performer, and excelled as a banjoist
-and tambourinist. He continued as a member of the above company until
-May, 1858, Geo. Christy seceding and going to California. Howard
-went with him, and continued with Christy until 1861, when he joined
-Unsworth’s Minstrels, also Hooley and Campbell’s.
-
-For about five years prior to his death he had been with the Wallace
-Sisters Combination.
-
-Gus Howard died in Alexandria, Va., March 27, 1874; age about 35 years.
-
-
-WARREN RICHARDS (Richard A. Warren) was well-known as a tenor singer
-with Duprez and Benedict’s Minstrels about forty years ago; he was with
-them for a lengthy period. He was born in New Orleans, and died in New
-York City, June 15, 1876.
-
-
-L. MORRISEY (Morrisey B. Little), a well-known and capable song and
-dance performer, joined Johnny Allen’s Minstrels about 1870.
-
-He formed a partnership with Fred Emerson, and as Morrisey and Emerson
-opened at Bryant’s Minstrels, New York, September 4, 1871, and
-continued there until the Spring of 1873, when the team separated.
-
-Mr. Morrisey played the variety houses until his death in New York,
-February 8, 1881.
-
-
-JAMES G. RUSSELL (Grant), the well-known vocalist, commenced his
-minstrel career about 1870 in New York, and successfully appeared in
-the companies of Carncross and Dixey in Philadelphia; Emerson’s, Geo.
-Thatcher’s and Bryant’s.
-
-He died in Richmond, Va., May 5, 1883.
-
-
-J. K. SILVER, of the famous Silver Brothers, was prominent for many
-years in minstrel and concert work.
-
-He died at Williamsburg, Mich., May 11, 1885.
-
-
-BILLY BURR (W. W. H. Burrows), an old-time performer, who was excellent
-in negro acts, made his first appearance with Andy Williams in Gardner
-and Hemming’s Circus. He played with various organizations until his
-retirement about 1875.
-
-He was born in Reading, Pa., November, 1840; he died at Gwynedd, Pa.,
-January 30, 1881.
-
-
-TOM. WARFIELD (J. B. Hersey), the old-time banjoist and black-face
-performer, entered the profession in his native city.
-
-He was with several minstrel shows, also had his own company, Warfield
-and Wicks Minstrels.
-
-He married Minnie Chapin in Baltimore, Md., in August, 1876.
-
-Tom Warfield was born in New Orleans, La.; he died in Birmingham, Ala.,
-November 12, 1899.
-
-
-QUEEN AND WEST constituted one of the great song and dance teams in
-minstrelsy. They formed a partnership about 1868, which was terminated
-by the death of Mr. Queen.
-
-Together they played several prominent minstrel engagements, and later
-went to Harrigan and Hart’s in New York, where Mr. West remained, all
-told, about twenty-two years.
-
-Mr. Queen was an exceptionally clever black-face comedian, while
-Mr. West, in addition to his ability as a dancer and comedian, was
-proficient on the banjo.
-
-John Queen made his first appearance as a clog dancer in Boston with
-Morris Bros., Pell and Trowbridge’s Minstrels. While with that company,
-he, in conjunction with R. M. Carroll, did the first double clog dance
-ever seen in minstrelsy.
-
-William West began his theatrical career in 1857 as a black-face
-performer, and until about 1863 played mostly with circuses.
-
-His first minstrel engagement was with Duprez and Green. Subsequently
-he played with Hooley at the Novelty Theatre in Brooklyn; with the San
-Franciscos in New York, and with Bryant’s, Wood’s, and Morris Brothers.
-
-Mr. West’s last stage appearance was about 1901.
-
-John Queen (McQueeny) was born in St. Albans, Vt., November 19, 1843;
-he died in New York, February 11, 1884.
-
-William West (Cox) was born in Leicester, England, May 3, 1837.
-
-
-CHARLES E. GIBBONS, an excellent clog dancer, was with Carncross and
-Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, in 1869; subsequently he joined the
-San Franciscos in New York, where he remained several years. His wife
-was Effie Germon, the well-known actress.
-
-He died in New York City June 27, 1882; age 40 years.
-
-
-NED REED was well-known mostly in the middle west, as a capable
-comedian. His first appearance was made in his native city about 1860.
-
-In 1862 he organized a minstrel company, and subsequently he traveled
-with John Robinson’s Circus, remaining about four years, after which,
-in 1866, he appeared with Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels in Chicago. About
-1867 Mr. Reed married Miss Ada St. Clair.
-
-He had at various times conducted theatres in Terre Haute and Ft.
-Wayne, Ind.; Syracuse, N. Y., and Dayton, Ohio, where for eighteen
-years he was a resident, during which period Mr. Reed’s hand was
-frequently in his pocket to help those less fortunate than himself.
-
-Ned Reed was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, September 27, 1840; he died in
-Dayton, Ohio, November 27, 1891.
-
-
-C. W. PRINGLE was for many years associated in the management of
-Richard’s and Pringle’s Colored Minstrels, a popular organization. He
-died in Marysville, Cal., March 18, 1893.
-
-
-BILLY GRAY (Cornelius O’Donnell) was well-known as a versatile
-black-face comedian. He entered the variety profession about 1862.
-
-In 1873 he joined Harry Robinson’s Minstrels, and two years later was
-with Hooley in Brooklyn, N. Y. Subsequently he joined the company of
-Harrigan and Hart in New York, where he long remained.
-
-Billy Gray was born in Ireland; he died in New York, November 21, 1882.
-
-
-BILLY REMINGTON, a prominent black-face performer, who was an
-especially clever bone player, died at Grand Rapids, Mich., April 16,
-1870.
-
-
-PEASLEY AND HUGHES were a well-known black-face song and dance team
-of the variety and minstrel stage, where they played many notable
-engagements.
-
-Mr. Peasley was also of Peasley and Fitzgerald; they opened with the
-Dearborn Minstrels in Chicago, August 21, 1871.
-
-John A. Peasley died in Syracuse, N. Y., April 22, 1893.
-
-Mark Hughes died in Chicago, Ill., February 6, 1882; age 34 years.
-
-
-WILLIAM DWYER was a well-known tenor singer, and played successful
-engagements with Bryant’s, and the San Franciscos in New York, and
-Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- BILLY DE RUE
-
- BOBBY DE RUE
-
-(DE RUE BROS.)
-
- BERT. LEIGHTON
-
- FRANK LEIGHTON
-
-(LEIGHTON BROS.)
-
- BILLY FREEZE
-
- LARRY FREEZE
-
-(FREEZE BROS.)]
-
-He was born in Dublin, Ireland; he died in Washington, D. C., December
-30, 1898.
-
- * * * * *
-
-In the author’s possession is a document dated July 17, 1850, wherein
-one James Norris purchased a fourth interest in a prominent minstrel
-company of that day for $200.00. Imagine what a similar interest in Lew
-Dockstader’s Minstrels would cost to-day.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-“COOL” BURGESS (Colin Burgess) was one of the most famous names in
-minstrelsy. Tall and slender, with long, drooping moustache, he
-provoked merriment at sight.
-
-He first appeared professionally in his native city about 1857, at the
-Melodeon.
-
-Subsequently he was identified with many minstrel organizations,
-amongst the earliest was Burgess and (J. E.) Green’s. About the closing
-of the Rebellion he joined Hooley’s Company in Brooklyn, where he
-became quite popular.
-
-In 1865 he was one of the proprietors of Burgess, (T. B.) Prendergast,
-(Archie) Hughes and (D. C.) LaRue’s Minstrels.
-
-In 1867, in conjunction with his fellow townsman, Charley Gardner, he
-organized Burgess and Gardner’s Minstrels.
-
-In 1864 he was associated with J. H. Haverly in an organization bearing
-their name.
-
-In the Summer of 1867, Burgess and (Ainsley) Scott’s Minstrels had a
-brief existence.
-
-(Charley) Reynolds, (John D.) Newcombe and Burgess’ Minstrels gave
-their first performance September 24, 1862.
-
-On August 9, 1869, Mr. Burgess made his appearance with Sam Sharpley’s
-Minstrels in Boston, and the following month, in the same city, he
-joined Delehanty and Hengler’s Company.
-
-In the Fall of 1879 he opened with Joe Norcross’ California Minstrels.
-
-In 1875 he made his first appearance in England at Sam Hague’s
-Minstrels in Liverpool; subsequently he played a successful engagement
-with Moore and Burgess in London.
-
-Like most prominent performers Mr. Burgess has a specialty in which he
-was prominently identified--in his case it was “Nicodemus Johnson,” in
-which he danced with abnormally long shoes, he being the first to adopt
-the massive footgear.
-
-Mr. Burgess married Miss Edna S. Taylor May 20, 1862.
-
-In the passing of “Cool” Burgess, minstrelsy lost one of its most
-brilliant stars.
-
-“Cool” Burgess was born in Toronto, Canada, December 20, 1840; he died
-there October 20, 1905.
-
-
-HANK MUDGE (Henry Tyler Mudge) is one of the few old-timers left.
-
-Mr. Mudge, who ranked with the great clog dancers of his day, made
-his first appearance in minstrelsy with the Porter Opera Troupe at
-Hartford, Conn., in 1857.
-
-In 1859 he was at Captain John Smith’s Theatre in Albany, N. Y. Mr.
-Mudge avers that this Smith was in no way related to the party in
-Virginia that was smitten with the charms of one Pocahontas.
-
-But to continue; in 1860 he joined Sam Sharpley’s Minstrels, and later
-went to Boston, where he became identified with the famous Morris
-Bros., Pell and Trowbridge Minstrels in that city.
-
-Mr. Mudge was associated with A. C. Stone, and as Mudge and Stone were
-rated as two of the best clog dancers in minstrelsy; likewise when with
-Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y., did he do a great dancing act
-with Archie Hughes.
-
-In New York he played successful engagements with Wood’s, and Kelly and
-Leon’s Minstrels.
-
-October 11, 1866, Mr. Mudge with a party sailed for Hong Kong; October
-16, 1866, Mr. Mudge arrived in New York. This might possibly strike the
-average observer as a quick trip; but the fact is that owing to the
-peevishness of old ocean, the minstrels floundered around on its huge
-bosom for several days, finally landing them where they started.
-
-In five days the party recovered, and on October 21 they again set
-sail; this time for old England, where they arrived in due time, and
-after engagements on Erin’s Isle, Hussey, Sweney and Felton’s Minstrels
-opened in London, England, December 5, 1866.
-
-Mr. Mudge subsequently played an extended engagement with Moore,
-Crocker and Ritter’s Minstrels in the British metropolis.
-
-In 1866 Boyce and Mudge’s Minstrels made a bid for favor; later Hogan
-and Mudge’s troupe did likewise, and in 1876 Mudge and Gaynor’s
-Minstrels toured.
-
-Mr. Mudge’s last tour was in connection with Dave Reed’s New York
-combination in 1887.
-
-Hank Mudge was born in Troy, N. Y., March 12, 1840.
-
-
-D. L. MORRIS, one of the greatest German comedians there ever was,
-played with Haverly’s Minstrels in 1875; and as Haverly’s “Black
-Dutchman” scored a big success; he was also with another minstrel
-organization.
-
-He died at Cape Girardeau, Mo., August 5, 1879.
-
-
-ROBERT MCWADE, whose great characterization of Rip, in “Rip Van Winkle”
-has made him world famous, wrote a burlesque on P. T. Barnum’s “What
-Is It?” for Hooley and Campbell’s Minstrels in New York, which was
-produced December 3, 1860.
-
-During the week, owing to the indisposition of James Unsworth, Mr.
-McWade assumed the title role of “Africanus Barnum O,” and played it in
-black face; and ’tho fifty years have elapsed, Mr. McWade still speaks
-of this occasion with evident relish and satisfaction.
-
-
-JOHN H. WARD was a splendid dancer, and in the early 60’s partner of
-Wm. H. Delehanty, prior to the latter’s association with Thos. Hengler.
-
-He died in East Saginaw, Mich., March 15, 1874.
-
-
-DAVE WILSON was a good comedian and gave a fine portrayal of the aged
-darky, but his principal fame rested on his manipulation of the bones,
-of which he was a master.
-
-He was with Newcomb’s Minstrels in 1869, and Kelly and Leon’s in 1875;
-he retired shortly after that, and is said to be living in Buffalo, N.
-Y.
-
-
-NEIL PRICE, a black-face performer, whose fame chiefly was gained as
-author of “A Boy’s Best Friend Is His Mother,” died at Chattanooga,
-Tenn., November 5, 1889.
-
-
-HARRY G. RICHMOND (Augustus Von Boyle) was an exceedingly versatile
-performer; a good vocalist, dancer and comedian. His principal minstrel
-engagement was with Haverly in the Spring of 1878.
-
-In Philadelphia, on October 29, 1879, during an altercation with an old
-friend, Dan Archer, Richmond, in pure self-defense, killed Archer.
-
-Mr. Richmond, in conjunction with his brother, Acland Von Boyle, took
-out the play of “Our Candidate,” about 1879.
-
-On May 1, 1880, he married Miss Florence Stover, an actress.
-
-Harry G. Richmond was born in Brooklyn, N. Y.; he died in Camden, N.
-J., October 21, 1885.
-
-
-A. C. STONE was an exceptionally good clog dancer, and in the early
-60’s a partner of “Hank” Mudge, under the team name of Stone and Mudge.
-
-In 1865 he was with Sharpley’s Ironclads; at the time of his death with
-LaRue’s Minstrels.
-
-He died at Frankfort, Ky., November 13, 1866.
-
-
-GEORGE WILKES (Miller), a well-known female impersonator of several
-early minstrel organizations, was born in Philadelphia; he died in
-Memphis, Tenn., October 1, 1870.
-
-
-FRED SPRUNG was a well-known vocalist and “straight” man in the 60’s,
-during which period he worked in acts with Billy Manning. In 1864 he
-was with Rumsey’s Minstrels, and in September of the following year
-with a small company, gave a show over the mountains of California,
-being one of the first to do so.
-
-He died in San Jose, Cal., February 26, 1890.
-
-
-JOHN PENDY (Prendergast), a well-known black-face performer in the old
-variety days, married Jeffreys Warner, and played as Pendy and Warner
-for several years.
-
-He died in New York City November 16, 1902.
-
-
-FRANK GIRARD (Giraud). This well-known interlocutor and “straight man”
-began his career with Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y., about
-1863; he remained but a short period and then enlisted in the navy,
-where he continued until the war was over.
-
-In September, 1866, Mr. Girard was one of the 500 passengers bound for
-New Orleans on the steamer “Evening Star,” which was wrecked about
-300 miles off the coast of Florida (October 3, 1866); he was the only
-male that survived, and was on the water for five days before he was
-rescued. He subsequently returned to New York, and later was identified
-with some of the principal minstrel companies.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- GUSTAVE BIDAUX
-
- W. H. LEWIS (RICE)
-
- FRANK KENT
-
- GONSALVO BISHOP
-
- EDWIN HOLMES
-
-DUPREZ & GREEN’S MINSTRELS, 1863.
-
-Some prominent members of the company at that time.]
-
-About 1871 he became a member of Tony Pastor’s stock company in New
-York, where he acted as stage manager and played in the farces for many
-years.
-
-His son is Edwin Girard, for many years manager of the Gotham Theatre,
-Brooklyn, N. Y.
-
-Frank Girard was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., July 7, 1840; he died there
-November 1, 1900.
-
-
-JAMES D. BOHEE a prominent colored performer and concededly great
-banjoist, went to England about 1880, where he was a great success
-until the time of his death in London, England, December 1, 1897.
-
-
-JIMMY CLARK was one of the best jig dancers in the country, and equally
-proficient in the manipulation of the banjo, and an all-round good
-general performer.
-
-He was with Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels in New York, also with the
-Duprez and Benedict Company.
-
-December, 1872, Welch, Clark and Hart’s Minstrels began a brief career.
-
-Mr. Clark had not appeared professionally for some years. Prior to his
-death he was employed in the manufacturing of the banjo.
-
-Jimmy Clark died in New York City, February 27, 1880; age 40 years.
-
-
-CHARLES L. MONROE, considered a very good impersonator of the old
-Southern “darky,” died in Philadelphia, July 12, 1875; age 36 years.
-
-
-JOHN BARTLEY, a good general performer in negro acts, and an
-exceptionally fine performer with the tambourine and bones, died at
-Buffalo, N. Y., April 17, 1895.
-
-
-JERRY MCMILLAN, once known as “Master Jerry,” was one of the best jig
-dancers of his day.
-
-He was identified with the San Francisco Minstrels in New York City for
-a considerable period.
-
-He died in Philadelphia, September 9, 1873.
-
-
-A. BAMFORD, a capable female impersonator who was prominent at one
-time at Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, and also played a European
-engagement in the 60’s, died at San Francisco, April 5, 1871. Mr.
-Bamford also did specialties with Harry Norman.
-
-
-HARRY J. CLAPHAM. This gentleman’s name will always rank with the great
-managers of minstrelsy.
-
-His career began on the 30th anniversary of his birth, at Syracuse,
-N. Y., with Cal. Wagner’s Minstrels, as a balladist. Six weeks later
-he was programme agent, and in six months was “press agent”; in 1910
-we would call that “making good.” Later he became general agent,
-continuing in that capacity for 18 months. When Haverly’s Minstrels
-were organized in the Fall of 1873, he became agent; a year later he
-was manager, in which capacity he served for several years.
-
-Leaving Mr. Haverly he took a much-needed rest for six months, and
-then assumed the management of Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s
-Minstrels; in about two years he turned into the company $100,000 in
-profits; this was “going some” about 30 years ago.
-
-John T. Raymond and Mr. and Mrs. McKee Rankin claimed his executive
-attention for three years; he then assumed management of the Barlow,
-Wilson & Co. Minstrels, remaining three years.
-
-After the Barlow, Wilson & Co. Minstrels, Mr. Clapham took out a
-repertoire company; his leading man being no less a personage than
-that excellent actor of to-day, Mr. Thos. E. Shea, who had previously
-occupied a mercantile position in Boston.
-
-A four years respite found Mr. Clapham equal owner with Lew
-Dockstader’s Minstrels (road company); the alliance lasted three
-seasons, which were very successful; the first 40 weeks profits were
-$24,000.
-
-Mr. Clapham speaks in the highest terms of praise of his first manager,
-Col. Haverly, because he gave him (Clapham) the opportunity.
-
-Harry J. Clapham was born in Lincoln, England, November 16, 1840.
-
-
-KELLY AND LEON was a great trade-mark in minstrelsy forty years ago.
-
-Edwin Kelly was a vocalist and an actor; Leon was a female
-impersonator; and none were more successful than he. Together they were
-famous for their burlesques, which they put on in a lavish manner.
-
-In 1860 each were members of Geo. Christy’s Minstrels; the following
-season they joined Morris Bros., Pell and Trowbridge’s Company in
-Boston, and in 1862 they were with Arlington and Donniker’s Troupe.
-A year later Kelly and Leon were interested in the management of the
-company, which soon after was known as Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels in
-Chicago.
-
-October 1, 1866, the company opened at Hope Chapel, New York, and
-for more than two years they were established there, meeting with
-pronounced success.
-
-January 9, 1869, they gave their final performance, and shortly after
-sailed for London, England, opening with Montague’s “Christy’s,”
-May 9. After a brief engagement they organized Kelly and Leon’s
-“Christy’s” Minstrels, giving their initial performance July 6, 1869.
-Six weeks later, August 16, they appeared with Delehanty and Hengler’s
-Combination in Boston. They made their first appearance in San
-Francisco November 7, 1871.
-
-August 26, 1872, they began an engagement at Bryant’s Minstrels in New
-York, which terminated November 16. Kelly and Leon then reorganized
-their own company, opening at their old stand, November 25, three days
-later, November 28, 1872, the theatre was destroyed by fire.
-
-The following Summer they returned to California, where they played an
-engagement in San Francisco with Maguire’s Minstrels.
-
-Returning East they opened in Philadelphia with Simmons and Slocum’s
-Minstrels, closing November 8, 1873.
-
-The following year they were with Haverly; in 1875 Kelly and Leon’s
-Company took the road, under the management of Surridge and Melville.
-
-In the Spring of 1876 their company opened at Bryant’s old minstrel
-hall in New York, where they continued several months.
-
-December 10, 1877, with their company, they began their third
-engagement in San Francisco, and on February 2, 1878, they sailed
-for Australia, where about two years after their arrival their long
-partnership was dissolved. For a time each headed their own company
-in the Antipodes. Leon later returned to the United States; Mr. Kelly
-remained in Australia until his death.
-
-Prior to 1860 Edwin Kelly was a balladist with Ordway’s Aeolians in
-Boston. In May, 1858, “Master” Leon joined Wood’s Minstrels in New
-York; the year following he was with Campbell’s Minstrels.
-
-Shortly after Leon’s return to America, he joined Haverly’s Minstrels;
-he severed his association with that company in February, 1883. He then
-formed an alliance with Frank Cushman, and in April began an engagement
-with Barlow, Wilson’s Minstrels.
-
-September 3, 1883, he opened with Birch’s San Francisco Minstrels in
-New York. Leon and Cushman sailed for Australia about January 1, 1886;
-they played several months in Melbourne; shortly after their return to
-the United States they separated, August, 1887.
-
-“Leon” began an engagement with Emerson’s Minstrels January 19, 1889.
-
-Since then Mr. Leon has been identified in minstrel, vaudeville and
-concert work, until his retirement about eight years ago.
-
-Edwin Kelly was born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1835; he died in Adelaide,
-Australia, December 24, 1898.
-
-“Leon” (Patrick Francis Glassey) was born in New York City, November
-21, about 1840.
-
-
-JACK TALBOTT (Arthur J. Talbott), well-known as a comedian, began his
-theatrical career in the late 50’s.
-
-In 1860 he was with Hooley and Campbell’s Minstrels, that same year
-joining Sanford’s Company in Philadelphia, in which city he remained
-altogether about ten years with Carncross and Dixey’s, and Carncross’
-Minstrels. Early in 1887 he was one of a company at the Criterion
-Theatre, Brooklyn, N. Y., in an attempt to revive permanent minstrelsy
-in that city.
-
-Mr. Talbott was an excellent marksman, and was the first to shoot an
-apple from the head in a theatre.
-
-He first performed this feat at the New Idea in San Francisco, October
-21, 1864; Johnny De Angelis, father of the comedian, Jeff De Angelis,
-held the apple.
-
-Mr. Talbott was a brother of Harry Talbott, the minstrel, and the
-husband of Emma Miles, danseuse, whom he married in the 60’s.
-
-Jack Talbott was born in Baltimore, Md., October 3, 1840; he died in
-New York, April 5, 1910.
-
-
-J. HENRY MURPHY, the well-known minstrel tenor, was with Mead’s
-Minstrels in New London, Conn., September 8, 1862.
-
-About February, 1864, he joined Buckley’s Serenaders in Boston, Mass.,
-and was associated with them for several seasons. April 17, 1871, he
-commenced an engagement with Newcomb and Arlington’s Minstrels in New
-York, and on January 29, 1872, joined Simmons and Slocum’s Company in
-Philadelphia.
-
-Later he identified himself with Cal. Wagner’s Minstrels, and was with
-him some time. Mr. Murphy had not appeared professionally for many
-years.
-
-J. Henry Murphy died in New London, Conn., April 10, 1910; age about 70
-years.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- JOHN E. CAIN
-
- NEAL ABEL
-
- GEO. W. ROCKEFELLER
-
- JULIA GOULD
-
- GREG. PATTI
-
- HARRY LEHR
-
-CAIN & ABEL; ROCKEFELLER & GOULD; PATTI AND HARRY LEHR; THEY ALL
-“BLACKED UP.”]
-
-
-CHARLES D. BURNHAM, an old-time comedian, was with Green’s Mocking Bird
-Minstrels in 1871, also various other companies.
-
-He married Miss Jennie Davis at Kingston, Canada, January 5, 1872.
-
-He died at Bay City, Mich., August 1, 1902.
-
-
-“ENGLISH TOMMY PEEL” (William Howe), a jig dancer of some reputation,
-died in New York, January 31, 1868.
-
-
-WALTER BRAY (Baker) was a versatile black-face performer, whose career
-began about fifty years ago.
-
-In 1864, in conjunction with Joe Murphy, he had a minstrel company
-bearing their names. Mr. Bray made his first New York appearance
-September 6, 1869, doing a black-face song and dance called “Sugar Bob.”
-
-In 1872 he was with Wm. Henry Rice’s Minstrels in Cincinnati, where his
-“Corkographs” received well-merited applause. Subsequently he played
-many minstrel and variety engagements.
-
-He died at Fort Worth, Texas, February 25, 1891.
-
-
-“HAPPY” CAL. WAGNER was not born with that handle to his name, but just
-plain Calvin Wagner.
-
-Mr. Wagner began comicalities at the age of 17, and at 70 is still
-“happy.” Of course he played other minstrel engagements before
-appearing with Charley Morris’ Company in 1864.
-
-In 1865 he was with Sam Sharpley’s Ironclads, and the following year
-Wagner and (Sam) Hague’s Minstrels could readily be seen--if you had
-the price.
-
-In 1867, January 21, to be exact, he joined Lloyd and Bidaux’
-Minstrels; the following year found him with Fred Wilson’s Minstrels,
-and on March 6, 1869, he left Wilson in St. Louis; that is, he left
-Wilson’s company. It was getting time for “Happy” Cal Wagner’s
-Minstrels, and accordingly that organization soon sprang into being.
-
-In the Fall of 1870 this company came under the able direction of
-“Jack” Haverly; the partnership was dissolved November 8, 1873. Mr.
-Wagner’s Minstrels went on touring.
-
-In 1878 Wagner and (Ben) Cotton’s Minstrels happened; that same year
-they unhappened. A year or so later Mr. Wagner joined Barlow, Wilson,
-Primrose and West’s Minstrels, closing with them in February, 1881.
-
-Mr. Wagner’s last appearance in minstrelsy was with Quinlan and Will’s
-Company, about five years ago.
-
-Cal. Wagner was born in Mobile, Ala., July 4, 1840.
-
-
-HORACE RUSHBY, well-known as a character actor, made his first
-appearance in the United States with Case and Kernan’s Minstrels in
-1869.
-
-A year later he joined Blaisdell Bros. and Courtright’s Minstrels; in
-1872 he was a member of Wm. Henry Rice’s organization in Cincinnati.
-Subsequently he appeared successfully with the minstrel companies of
-Harry Robinson; Haverly; I. W. Baird’s; Birch, Hamilton and Backus;
-Hooley and Emerson’s Megatherians; Carncross’, in Philadelphia, and
-several others.
-
-Some years ago Mr. Rushby decided to enter the legitimate field, where
-as Cy. Prime in the “Old Homestead” and John Todd in “Old Jed Prouty”
-he achieved success.
-
-Horace Rushby was born in Hull, England, November 14, 1840.
-
-
-JOHN CROSHER, a well-known ballad singer who was with Cotton and
-Murphy’s Minstrels in 1865, and with Simmons and Slocum’s Company in
-Philadelphia, Pa., from 1871 to 1874; died in Toronto, Canada, January
-15, 1880.
-
-
-DICK SANDS (George R. Sands), famous for many years as Barnum’s “Old
-Woman in the Shoe,” was one of the world’s greatest clog dancers.
-
-His first appearance was made at Pierce’s Varieties in Providence, R.
-I., in 1857. Late that same year he joined Bryant’s Minstrels in New
-York, and in February, 1859, reappeared there.
-
-In 1866 he was associated with Jack Haverly in a minstrel company
-bearing their name. Mr. Sands played important engagements with the
-Morris Bros., Pell and Trowbridge Minstrels in Boston, and many other
-high-class minstrel and circus companies.
-
-Dick Sands was born at Mill Bridge, England, May 2, 1840; he died in
-New York, March 28, 1900.
-
-
-CHARLES B. HICKS, one of the proprietors of Hicks and Sawyer’s Colored
-Minstrels, died at Suraboya, Java, in 1902.
-
-
-W. H. HAMILTON, who was a well-known baritone singer, was with Simmons
-and Slocum’s, and Frank Moran’s Minstrels in Philadelphia in the early
-70’s, and in 1882 was part proprietor of Birch, Hamilton and Backus’
-Minstrels in New York. He died in Los Angeles, Cal., April 17, 1897.
-
-
-GUSTAVE GEARY, a well-known vocalist of Hooley’s and other minstrel
-companies during the 60’s, died in New York, April 25, 1877.
-
-
-W. H. STRICKLAND, the well-known minstrel agent, who was long
-associated with Haverly’s Minstrels, died in New York, February 27,
-1903.
-
-
-CHARLES LOCKWOOD, a famous singer of Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N.
-Y., and other prominent organizations, died in Brooklyn, N. Y., April
-28, 1887.
-
-He was the author of “A Handful of Earth,” made famous by Joe Murphy in
-the Irish drama.
-
-
-J. H. CLIFFORD, an excellent dancer of the 60’s, during which period he
-was associated with Rumsey’s, Hooley’s, Campbell’s and other well-known
-minstrel organizations.
-
-He was especially well remembered for his song of “Hot Corn.”
-
-He was on the police force in New York for some time.
-
-He is said to have died about ten years ago.
-
-
-BILLY SHEPPARD was equally famous for his neat and artistic songs and
-dances, and for his rendition of the “Anvil Chorus” on the banjo.
-
-He had been with many prominent minstrel companies, notably with the
-San Franciscos in California in 1865; Griffin and Christy’s in New
-York, two years later, and in the Summer of 1869 played in England
-with Smith and Taylor’s Minstrels; in 1870 he was with Hooley in
-Brooklyn, N. Y., and with Hooley’s in Chicago in 1871. His wife was
-professionally known as Sallie Clinetop, of the Clinetop Sisters.
-
-Mr. Sheppard died at Ft. Washington, N. Y., July 8, 1872.
-
-
-JAMES A. HERNE, the late well-known actor and author, whose portrayal
-of the lighthouse keeper in his play of “Shore Acres” will long be
-pleasantly remembered, played Samson, a heavy, black-face character
-part in the “New South,” commencing at the Broadway Theatre, New York,
-January 2, 1893.
-
-James A. Herne was born in Troy, N. Y., February 1, 1840; he died in
-New York City, June 2, 1901.
-
-
-D. R. HAWKINS was well known as a capable interlocutor, and
-co-proprietor with Billy Courtright with a permanent minstrel company
-in Philadelphia bearing their names; they opened about September, 1882.
-He was also with Emerson’s Minstrels.
-
-He was born in Philadelphia, and died in San Francisco, September 5,
-1888; age 47 years.
-
-
-HEN. MASON (Martin), was a well-known black-face performer. His wife
-was Celia Iferd, an actress.
-
-He was the author of several sketches, notably, “A Night at a Free and
-Easy.”
-
-He died in New York, February 22, 1873; age 33 years.
-
-
-FRANK PELL, a well-known and favorite comedian of many years ago, who
-was with Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Minstrels, in 1860; Newcomb’s Minstrels, in
-1867, and other well-known companies, died in St. Paul, Minn., August
-26, 1871.
-
-
-TOMMY PEEL (O’Reilly) was one of the world’s great jig dancers. He made
-his first professional appearance in his native city at the age of
-twelve years.
-
-About 1855 he became a member of a minstrel company in which Matt Peel
-was interested. Mr. Peel adopted him, and young O’Reilly thereafter was
-known as Tommy Peel.
-
-He continued with Matt Peel practically until the latter’s death, in
-1859, after which he joined Bryant’s Minstrels in New York, where he
-remained about three years.
-
-Tommy Peel was born in Albany, N. Y., September, 1841; he died in
-Melbourne, Aus., July 31, 1869.
-
-
-J. F. SULLIVAN, prominent as a balladist at various times with the
-minstrel companies of Duprez and Green; Sharpley’s; Buckley’s, and
-Skiff and Gaylord’s, died in Boston, Mass., August 20, 1866; age 25
-years.
-
-
-FRANK HOWARD (Hurd), an old-time general minstrel performer of several
-early companies, was born in Boston, Mass.; he died in Chicago, Ill.,
-January 4, 1897; age 56 years.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- DAN. BRYANT
-
- “HANK” MUDGE
-
- S. S. PURDY
-
-A TRIO OF TROJANS.
-
- TOM ENGLISH,
- Born in Ireland
-
- SID. C. FRANCE,
- Born in England
-
- CHAS. K. FRENCH,
- Born in the United States
-
-ISN’T THIS THE FUNNY OLD WORLD?]
-
-
-J. K. “FRITZ” EMMETT (Kleinfelter), the famous singing Dutch comedian,
-played several minstrel engagements before coming East; but always in
-white-face.
-
-On June 1, 1868, at De Bar’s Opera House, St. Louis, Mo., (R. M.)
-Carroll and Emmett’s (J. K.) Minstrels began a brief engagement. Late
-in the same month he made his first New York appearance in _black-face_
-at Bryant’s Minstrels, and this was not the only time Mr. Emmett
-ever appeared in corked features. The engagement terminated in July
-following.
-
-J. K. Emmett was born in St. Louis, Mo., March 13, 1841; he died in
-Cornwall, N. Y., June 15, 1891.
-
-
-BEN HAYES (J. C. Allian) the old-time comedian and general performer,
-made his first appearance with the Sands & Mazzoni Company, in 1863.
-
-That same year he joined the Morris Bros., Pell and Trowbridge Company,
-subsequently appearing with Cal. Wagner’s Minstrels for three years.
-
-With Frank Wild in Buffalo, he was associated three years, also in many
-other variety houses did he play long stock engagements.
-
-Ben Hayes was born in New York City, October 26, 1841.
-
-
-JOSEPH M. NORCROSS, for many years known as Joseph Norrie, is one of
-the oldest and most prominent interlocutors in minstrelsy.
-
-He first appeared professionally with the late Fred Sharpley and his
-own minstrel company in 1857.
-
-In 1862 he joined Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, and
-in 1870 joined Simmons and Slocum in the same city, and remained two
-years with that company, including a trip to California.
-
-Subsequently Mr. Norcross joined Birch, Wambold and Backus’ Minstrels
-in New York, continuing there two years, after which he joined Bryant’s
-Minstrels, also in the Metropolis, and remained until the death of Dan
-Bryant.
-
-Mr. Norcross was two years with Emerson’s Minstrels in San Francisco,
-and a like period with Buckley’s Serenaders. He was with Haverly seven
-years, including a trip to England, in 1884.
-
-Mr. Norcross was with “Our Goblins” for four seasons, appearing in
-white-face. For the past few years he has intermittently appeared in
-vaudeville with a unique tabloid minstrel show of his own design.
-
-Mr. Norcross married Miss Mamie Wambold at Newark, N. J., March 17,
-1878.
-
-Jos. M. Norcross was born in New York City July 5, 1841.
-
-
-HUBERT W. EAGAN is one of the few old-time black-face performers whose
-active career began over half a century ago.
-
-Mr. Eagan’s professional life began in Buffalo, N. Y., in 1857; three
-years later he sat on the end for the first time in Baltimore, Md., at
-the Melodeon, the present site of the Monumental Theatre.
-
-He played many variety engagements before he went with LaRue’s
-Minstrels in 1866.
-
-Mr. Eagan joined James Edwards in the middle 60’s, and as Eagan and
-Edwards were highly popular in the variety houses.
-
-In 1863 he married Miss Jennie Williams, and after playing numerous
-variety and circus engagements, he retired about 1898.
-
-Hubert W. Eagan was born in Castleragh, Ireland, December 18, 1841.
-
-
-LEW BRIMMER (Leslie Chase Brimmer) was not only a great banjoist, but a
-clever comedian as well.
-
-In July, 1864, he was with Sanderson’s Minstrels; the same year he
-joined Hooley in Brooklyn, N. Y.; December 5, 1865, at Binghamton, N.
-Y., was given the first performance of Brimmer, Whiting, Gaynor and
-Clark’s Minstrels.
-
-He was with Emerson and Manning’s Minstrels in 1869, and the following
-year with Emerson’s Minstrels; in the Summer of 1871 he had out
-Lew Brimmer’s Banjo Minstrels, and in September, 1872, he began an
-engagement with Moran and Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-He was also with the San Francisco Minstrels in New York, and with
-Wood’s Company in the same city. His last engagement was at Sandy
-Spencer’s, in New York City.
-
-Lew Brimmer was born in Cooperstown, N. Y.; he died in Fonda, N. Y.,
-September 15, 1883; age 42 years.
-
-
-GEORGE GRAY, a well-known minstrel singer of the 60’s and 70’s, was
-identified with the companies of Hooley, Fox and Sharpley; Campbell’s
-and many others.
-
-About 1880 he played Uncle Tom, and continued in that character until
-his death.
-
-He was the first husband of Minnie Oscar Gray.
-
-He was born in New York, September 25, 1841; he died in Minneapolis,
-Minn., March 13, 1882.
-
-
-TIM. HAYES was one of the foremost clog dancers of minstrelsy. His
-first professional appearance was with Wild’s theatrical show under
-canvas in 1851.
-
-In 1860 he came to the United States, and made his debut at the
-Melodeon in New York. After that he joined Hooley and Campbell’s
-Minstrels, and subsequently appeared with Unsworth’s; Carncross and
-Dixey’s, in Philadelphia; George Christy’s, and M. C. Campbell’s
-Minstrels.
-
-Tim Hayes was born in Dublin, Ire., September 22, 1841; he died in
-Washington, D. C., May 12, 1877.
-
-
-BILLY HART arrived in the United States on his eighth birthday. He made
-his first appearance professionally in New York, January 26, 1862. In
-April, same year, he appeared in black-face for the first time, and
-sang “Ham Fat”; subsequently and for many seasons he appeared with many
-prominent minstrel companies.
-
-A few years before his death he essayed Irish characters, and was very
-successful.
-
-He was born in County Tipperary, Ireland, March 17, 1842; he died in
-New York, July 9, 1879.
-
-
-CHARLES H. DAY spent nearly all of his life in the amusement world. He
-was well known as an author, agent and journalist; he was connected in
-an executive capacity with such minstrel organizations as Cleveland’s
-and Newcomb and Arlington’s.
-
-About forty years ago he was interested in Sharpley, Sheridan, Mack
-and Day’s Minstrels; later this company was known as Sheridan, Mack and
-Day’s Minstrels.
-
-Charles H. Day died in New Haven, Conn., October 3, 1907; age 65 years.
-
-
-HARRY STANWOOD (Stevens) was famous as a banjoist and comedian for many
-years.
-
-In 1863 he was with Duprez and Green’s Minstrels; in 1871 with Newcomb
-and Arlington’s Company in New York. He was also with Bryant’s
-Minstrels in the same city, as well as many other first-class
-organizations during the twenty-five years or so he was before the
-public. Harry Stanwood was born in Cobourg, Canada, November 2, 1842;
-he died there September 21, 1886.
-
-
-BOB FRASER was equally well-known as a minstrel and pantomimist.
-
-Originally a scene painter, it was while employed in that capacity with
-Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, that he made his debut
-as an end man. He invariably arranged the Christmas pantomimes with the
-company in which he was identified; and in that way gradually forsook
-cork for chalk.
-
-On Christmas Day, 1876, he became associated in the management of
-the minstrels with Billy Sweatnam at the Arch Street Opera House,
-Philadelphia; the organization was then known as Sweatnam and Fraser’s
-Minstrels.
-
-Bob Fraser was born in Philadelphia; he died in New York City, August
-4, 1896; age 54 years.
-
-
-SAM. DEVERE was one of the best-known black-face banjoists before the
-public. He first applied cork to his features when twenty years of age,
-in a music hall in Brooklyn, on the site now occupied by the Court
-Theatre.
-
-In 1879 he starred in “Jasper,” a play in which he played one of the
-principal characters, in black-face. One year later he went to Europe
-with Haverly’s Minstrels, opening in London, July 31, 1880.
-
-September 15, 1890, at the Gayety Theatre, Albany, N. Y., the first
-performance of Sam Devere’s Own Company was given, and the company
-continued on the road ever since. Even at the present date, the
-trade-mark is still in use.
-
-Mr. Devere achieved wide popularity by singing the famous ditty, “The
-Whistling Coon.”
-
-Sam Devere died in Brooklyn, N. Y., March 1, 1907; age about 65 years.
-
-
-SANFORD AND WILSON are credited with being the original musical mokes;
-they certainly were among the earliest double acts of this kind.
-
-Both were big men, and both capable comedians. The violin and banjo
-were about the only instruments they played; but they could play them,
-and no two performers ever got more comedy out of these instruments
-than they.
-
-They formed a partnership in August, 1873, and during their many
-years on the stage they played all the principal variety houses, and
-engagements with Bryant’s, also Haverly’s Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Wilson retired from theatricals in May, 1892.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- JAS--MACKIN & WILSON--FRANCIS
- (1875)
- (Courtesy of Chapin & Gore, Chicago)
-
- “KERRY GOW” JOE MURPHY
- (1862)
-
- DAVE--MONTGOMERY & STONE--FRED
- (About 1898)
-
-THOSE WERE THE HAPPY DAYS.]
-
-James Sanford (Thos. Pynes), was born in Milbury, Mass., in 1843; he
-died in Cohoes, N. Y., December 23, 1891.
-
-Charles Wilson (Neiman), was born in Milwaukee, Wis.; he died in
-Brooklyn, N. Y., February 15, 1893; age 51 years.
-
-
-JOHN BOWMAN. This prominent song and dance artist began his regular
-career at Graham’s Concert Hall on Market Street, near Second, St.
-Louis, Mo., in October, 1863, where he met with much success doing
-an “Essence.” It was there that he met his future partner, William
-Harris, though he did not join him in partnership at that time. After
-Graham’s he went to Jake Esher’s Bowery, same city, doing “ends” and
-comedy; traveling engagements followed until he met Harris again at
-Deagle’s in St. Louis, 1866, when the partnership was formed; they
-remained at Deagle’s Varieties one year, played many variety theatres,
-and engagements in St. Louis with Fred Wilson’s Minstrels, also Simmons
-and Slocum in Philadelphia. Bowman and Harris dissolved partnership in
-Canada in 1873 while with the L. B. Lent’s Circus.
-
-After separating from Mr. Harris he opened in Providence, R. I., with
-Archie Stalker, and played other dates, later taking out the Bowman
-Brothers Minstrels; a wagon show.
-
-In 1881 he went to work for William Harris, in Boston, and has been
-with him ever since.
-
-John Bowman was born in Mobile, Ala., November 16, 1842.
-
-
-WILLIAM HARRIS, famous in professional circles for many years as a
-member of the great theatrical syndicate, began his career in St.
-Louis, Mo., in the early days of the Civil War, as a black-face song
-and dance man, playing the variety houses until 1866, when he formed
-a partnership with John Bowman, which lasted until 1873, when they
-separated. Mr. Harris next allied himself with William Carroll, a
-good comedian and banjoist, and as Harris and Carroll played many
-first-class engagements, including Tony Pastor’s Road Company; they
-separated in 1879. Later he went to Boston at the Howard Athenaeum,
-as stage and acting manager for Josh. Hart, subsequently taking the
-house himself, and retaining it for several seasons. Afterwards, in
-conjunction with Isaac Rich, they had many stars under their banner,
-including George Thatcher, Andrew Mack and many others.
-
-Mr. Harris is one of the youngest looking men in the profession,
-retaining the appearances of youth to a remarkable degree; he hails
-from St. Louis, Mo. I didn’t get his age, but I am sure he must be
-younger than he would admit that he is.
-
-(Overture--“Apple of My Eye.”)
-
-
-JOE. LANG, the old-time black-face performer, made his first appearance
-with the Morris Brothers, Pell and Trowbridge’s Minstrels, at an early
-age. Subsequently he played an engagement with Morris and Wilson’s
-Minstrels in St. Louis.
-
-Mr. Lang had the management of the Adelphi Theatre in Buffalo for
-several seasons, and the Halsted Street Theatre in Chicago.
-
-He was also associated professionally with “Hank” Mudge, the old time
-clog dancer.
-
-Joe Lang was born in New York, September 21, about 1843.
-
-
-MIKE FOLEY was a well-known black-face comedian, and during the 70’s
-did an excellent black-face act with Buck Sheffer, as Foley and
-Sheffer. He was also of the team of Foley and Wade.
-
-He had retired from active theatricals about nine years prior to his
-death, which occurred at Syracuse, N. Y., September 10, 1888, at the
-age of 45 years.
-
-
-THOMPSON AND KERNS were the first black-face double song and dance team.
-
-Prior to their advent, performers invariably worked singly. Their
-first joint appearance was made in Washington, D. C., in 1861; a year
-previous Mr. Kerns had made his professional debut at Long’s Varieties,
-Philadelphia. Thompson and Kerns continued in partnership for several
-years, playing the variety theatres almost exclusively.
-
-After separating, Mr. Thompson joined Newcomb’s Minstrels in
-Cincinnati, August, 1867.
-
-About 1871 he produced “On Hand,” a sensational drama, in which Mr.
-Thompson portrayed twelve distinct characters; black, white and yellow;
-male and female; of various nationalities. At last accounts he was
-still playing “On Hand,” early in the current year.
-
-Mr. Thompson is the father of Mollie Thompson, the favorite dancer of a
-decade ago; and the father-in-law of Eddie Garvie, who has played more
-than one black-face part.
-
-Mr. Thompson was also the oldest living musical moke.
-
-Johnny Thompson was born in New York, July 4, 1843.
-
-Frank Kerns was born in Philadelphia, 1844; he died in New York,
-September 21, 1877.
-
-
-CHARLES BORTELL was well-known as a capable and bass singer and
-interlocutor. His last minstrel engagement was with I. W. Baird’s
-Company.
-
-At one time he was a member of the police force in Saratoga, N. Y.; he
-died there November 26, 1888; age 45 years.
-
-
-OSCAR WILLIS (McLain) was well-known as a banjoist and comedian chiefly
-on the variety stage.
-
-His first appearance was made in his native city in 1858.
-
-In 1871 he was end man and comedian with Unsworth’s Minstrels.
-November 16, 1867, he married Gussie Lamoreux, a well-known dancer, at
-Baltimore, Md.
-
-Mr. Willis was born in Pittsburg, Pa., July 14, 1843; he died at
-Bismarck, Dakota, August 19, 1881.
-
-
-JOHN WILD. This truly great impersonator of the colored man was rather
-an unique performer; for whereas most of his contemporaries portrayed
-the black man of the plantation, John Wild’s characterizations were
-generally those of the town negro, of which he made an especial study
-from New York City life.
-
-About 1857 Mr. Wild met Billy Arlington, and became a member of
-Arlington and White’s Minstrels; the company consisted of the three
-already named, and lasted one week. The next three years were mostly
-circus and variety engagements. Early in 1863 he went to Carncross
-and Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, occupying the tambo end; he
-subsequently played the variety theatres with Blanche Stanley in an act
-called “Nerves,” in which he created a sensation.
-
-Mr. Wild afterwards was with the minstrel companies of Emerson, Allen
-and Manning’s, and the Morris Brothers in Boston, which company he
-left to become one of the proprietors of Dougherty, Wild, Barney and
-Mac’s Minstrels in 1869. He joined Harrigan and Hart’s Company, January
-28, 1878, and continued with them until and after Tony Hart left the
-organization, remaining until 1889, when he starred in “Running Wild.”
-
-The following year he was with George Thatcher’s Minstrels, and on
-December 29, 1890, he rejoined Harrigan, continuing with him until 1895.
-
-In conjunction with Mrs. Annie Yeamans and Dan Collyer, he began a tour
-in vaudeville, January 10, 1898.
-
-John Wild’s death was a distinct and irreparable loss to the profession
-he so ably graced.
-
-Mr. Wild was twice married; his second wife, Ada Wray, was well-known
-in the profession several years ago.
-
-John Wild was born in Manchester, England, December 29, 1843; he died
-in Averill Park, N. Y., March 2, 1898.
-
-
-GEORGE W. ROCKEFELLER, well-known as a vocalist and banjoist, opened
-with the 5th Engineer Minstrels at Auburn, N. Y., September 4, 1865;
-shortly after this company was known as Wagner and Hague’s Minstrels.
-Subsequently he was with Lloyd’s Minstrels in New York, and Tunnison’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia; he joined Bryant’s Company in New York in
-1868, and was with them for quite a while.
-
-He was with Buckley’s Serenaders, also in New York, in the Summer of
-1870; in the Fall he joined the San Francisco Minstrels, likewise in
-New York.
-
-He opened with Emerson’s Minstrels in San Francisco, August 19, 1872;
-May 12, following he sailed for Australia with that company, and
-remained in the Antipodes after leaving Emerson, finally returning to
-the United States in the Summer of 1879.
-
-He again went to California, where he died at Colton, that State, March
-18, 1886. Mr. Rockefeller was born at Penfield, N. Y., March 14, 1843.
-
-
-CHARLEY PETTENGILL. Minstrelsy suffered an irreparable loss in the
-untimely death of this brilliant comedian; a comedian in fact, and
-versatile to a degree.
-
-August 1, 1864, he opened with Buckley’s Serenaders in Boston, and
-became a great favorite at once. Subsequently he joined the Morris
-Bros. Minstrels in the same city, where he remained until February
-13, 1866. September 10, following, he played a brief engagement with
-Sands and Herbert’s Minstrels, and the same month returned to his
-home in Albany to organize Pettengill’s Minstrels, which continued
-intermittently until September 22, 1869, when in conjunction with
-Johnny Allen and Delehanty and Hengler, a company bearing their names
-was launched at Brooklyn, N. Y.
-
-In November following they opened for a run in New York, that
-terminated June 1, 1870.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- JOHN GORMAN
-
- JAMES GORMAN
-
- GEO. GORMAN
-
-THE GORMAN BROS.; ALWAYS ON TOP.
-
- AMOS ARNOLD
-
- BILLY ARNOLD
-
- FRANK ARNOLD
-
-THE FAMOUS ARNOLD BROS.; A GREAT TREAT FOR BILLY.]
-
-Mr. Pettengill is declared to have been the original “Nicodemus
-Johnson”; if he wasn’t, he certainly was the greatest. All honor to his
-memory.
-
-Charley Pettengill was born in Albany, N. Y., where he died October 10,
-1870; age 27 years.
-
-
-M. B. LEAVITT (Michael Bennett Levy) commenced his professional career
-as a minstrel in 1859; he was one of the end men, and appeared under
-his own name as M. B. Levy; Mr. Leavitt has been a comedian ever
-since--but not always on the stage.
-
-To name all the minstrel companies he has been with would be a
-difficult matter, also all the things he did in them.
-
-In 1867 he was a clown and comic vocalist; in 1872 he did a stump
-speech on the occasion of his last appearance as a “black-face”
-performer. There were any number of “Leavitt’s Minstrels” in the 60’s.
-
-About forty years ago he became associated with Mme. Rentz’s Female
-Minstrels; when the fall season opened, September 18, 1871, Mr. Leavitt
-was treasurer of the company. This organization subsequently developed
-into the Rentz-Santley Troupe, the burlesque show of many years’
-standing. Most of the Leavitt millions were made with this company.
-
-In 1881 Leavitt’s Gigantean Minstrels were organized, and in 1889
-Leavitt’s European Minstrels toured.
-
-Mr. Leavitt has broken into the ranks of authors, and an interesting
-volume from his pen may shortly be expected.
-
-M. B. Leavitt was born in Boston, Mass., June 24, 1843.
-
-
-ARTHUR COOK, the well-known minstrel tenor who made popular “Ring
-the Bells Softly,” “Essie Dear” and other favorite compositions,
-came to America about 1853, and was prominently identified with such
-well-known minstrel organizations as Bryant’s, in New York; Carncross’
-and Thatcher and Ryman’s in Philadelphia; Hooley’s in Brooklyn; San
-Franciscos in New York; Primrose and West; also with Edward Harrigan,
-“The County Fair” and “The Man From Boston.”
-
-Arthur Cook was born in London, England; he died in Boston, Mass.,
-November 1, 1893; age 50 years.
-
-
-BILLY MCALLISTER’s career began at the age of sixteen, singing in
-concerts.
-
-In 1862 he joined the Fuller New York combination Minstrels as a
-comedian, and as a comedian no one has ever been able to justly gainsay
-his right to that term.
-
-In 1864 he organized the Cross, Fay and McAllister’s Minstrels,
-and until 1870 he was associated with various companies; in the
-fall of that year he joined Cal. Wagner’s Minstrels; Mr. McAllister
-demonstrated his versatility with this company by performing at various
-times the duties of balladist, interlocutor and comedian.
-
-In 1872 he was with Harry Robinson’s Minstrels, and most of the period
-from then until 1880 was identified with his own companies.
-
-Commencing in that year with I. W. Baird’s Minstrels, he remained two
-seasons. In 1882 he became a member of Haverly’s Mastodon Minstrels,
-and in 1883 Robinson and McAllister’s Minstrels took the road, but gave
-it back the following year.
-
-July 30, 1885, Mr. McAllister opened with McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s
-Minstrels in his native city, at the initial performance of that
-company; early in 1886 he joined Carncross’ Minstrels in Philadelphia,
-sitting opposite to Lew Dockstader.
-
-Mr. McAllister has been a prominent citizen of Troy, N. Y., where he
-has been engaged in business for more than twenty years.
-
-Billy McAllister was born in Paterson, N. J., March 15, 1843.
-
-
-FRANK BELL (Peter Jaggers), best known as a unique stump-speaker, made
-his first appearance in Olean, N. Y., in September, 1864, and shortly
-after joined Wood’s Minstrels in New York, as a clog dancer.
-
-Subsequent minstrel engagements were with the original New Orleans
-Minstrels, Simmons, Slocum and Sweatnam’s, Armstrong Bros., George
-Clapham’s Minstrels, Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s, Haverly’s,
-Harry Robinson’s, and Lester and Allen’s. The crowning success of his
-career was with “Way Down East,” in white-face, playing the constable,
-and singing “All Bound Round With a Woolen String;” Mr. Bell also
-played a character part with Otis Skinner in “Your Humble Servant,” in
-1910.
-
-Frank Bell was born in Thurle, Can., September 17, 1843.
-
-
-MAJOR (John E.) BURK, known far and wide for his famous gun drill, has
-been with many prominent minstrel organizations in the United States
-and England, usually appearing in black-face, the act seemingly being
-enhanced in appearance at least, by the addition of burnt cork.
-
-He first appeared with Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, in 1868, also
-played engagements there in 1869 and 1870. Subsequently he was with
-San Sharpley, season 1872-73; first appearance in England at Hague’s
-Minstrels, London, April 17, 1876; also played at Hague’s, Liverpool,
-and Moore and Burgess in London; Hooley & Emerson’s Megatherians,
-season 1879-80; Livermore Bros. in England; Frank Moran’s Minstrels,
-Carncross’ Minstrels in Philadelphia, and the Big 4 Minstrels, 1880-81.
-
-Major Burk was born in New York City, June 21, 1845, and now resides
-there.
-
-
-MILT. G. BARLOW was one of the greatest “old darky” delineators that
-minstrelsy has known, and probably did more to popularize “Old Black
-Joe” than any other performer.
-
-Mr. Barlow originally aspired to be a Dutch comedian. His first
-minstrel engagement was with the Jackson Emersonians in 1870; the
-tour lasted about four weeks; subsequently he returned to the variety
-business, doing black-face, Dutch and Irish.
-
-Shortly after this he played an engagement with Harry Robinson’s
-Minstrels, also Benjamin’s New Orleans Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Barlow became a member of Haverly’s Minstrels about 1874, and
-continued with them until March 24, 1877; two days later joining
-Sweatnam and Fraser’s Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-On August 20, 1877, the first performance of Barlow, Wilson, Primrose
-and West’s Minstrels was given; the last was at Poughkeepsie, N. Y.,
-June 10, 1882. In the latter year Barlow, Wilson & Co.’s Minstrels were
-organized, and later Barlow, Wilson and Rankin’s Minstrels.
-
-Afterwards Mr. Barlow was with Thatcher, Primrose and West’s, and
-Primrose and West’s Minstrels.
-
-In August, 1894, Barlow, Dolson and Powers’ Minstrels took the road.
-For several years after this he was with “The White Slave” Co., and
-“Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” playing the title role.
-
-Milt. G. Barlow was born in Lexington, Ky., June 29, 1843; he died in
-New York City, September 27, 1904.
-
-
-WM. A. HUNTLEY (Penno) made his first appearance on the stage in his
-native city at the age of six years, playing little Tom Bruce, in “Nick
-of the Woods.” His first minstrel engagement was with Mead’s Euterpean
-Minstrels, in 1862, at New London, Conn. In 1865 he joined the Campbell
-and Huntley Minstrels, remaining some years.
-
-Minstrelsy lost him from 1868 to 1870. In September, 1871, he made his
-first appearance in white-face at the Howard in Boston; subsequent
-engagements were with the Lauri English Pantomime Troupe and the
-Martinetti French Ravel Pantomime Co. In the Spring of 1873 he joined
-the McKee and Rogers Co., afterwards rejoining the Martinetti Troupe.
-
-In 1874 he became co-partner with Dr. Huntley in the management of
-Huntley’s Minstrels; then came engagements extending some years in the
-principal theatres of the country.
-
-Mr. Huntley was especially engaged for Haverly’s Minstrels in London,
-to lead the big banjo act in which twelve performers appeared at one
-time; he opened at Her Majesty’s Theatre, July 31, 1880, and remained
-three months. It was during this period that Mr. Huntley had the honor
-of appearing before the Royal Family; he subsequently played in the
-principal cities of England, also in Paris, and returned to the United
-States to fill out his contract with one of Mr. Haverly’s organizations
-here.
-
-From 1881 to 1884 he was with Whitmore and Clark’s Minstrels, and later
-formed a partnership with John H. Lee, formerly of Adams and Lee;
-subsequently they opened a studio in Providence, where they met with
-much success, especially in the introduction of the banjeaurine and the
-bass banjo. Mr. Huntley has long since retired from minstrelsy, but the
-appellation of the “Classic Banjoist” he so justly earned years ago, is
-still his.
-
-Wm. A. Huntley was born in Providence, R. I., November 2, 1843.
-
-
-J. J. KELLY was one of the best known vocalists in minstrelsy. He
-entered the profession about 1853, and had been with such famous
-companies as Emerson’s, Haverly’s, Bryant’s, in New York; Barlow,
-Wilson, Primrose and West’s; and Morris Bros., Pell and Trowbridge’s in
-Boston. Mr. Kelly died in Boston, Mass., July 20, 1902.
-
-
-WM. J. ASHCROFT was one of the most versatile performers that ever
-blacked their face. His first professional appearance was in Pawtucket,
-R. I., as a member of the Julian Minstrels.
-
-In 1866 he was with Seaver’s Minstrels, in Brooklyn, N. Y. He was also
-with Lloyd’s Minstrels. About 1872 he went to England, and later when
-returning to the United States, he brought over and was the first to
-produce in this country, an eccentric black-face specialty called the
-“Funny Old Gal;” in this he was phenomenally successful.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- TOMMY GRANGER
-
- BILLY RICE
-
- “JIM” BUDWORTH
-
- “HAPPY” CAL. WAGNER
-
- J. W. McANDREWS
- (The “Watermelon Man”)
-
-A QUAINT QUINTETTE.]
-
-Prior to this he was a partner for several months of J. W. Morton.
-
-Mr. Ashcroft again visited England in 1875, where he became one of
-the greatest favorites the old world ever knew, appearing chiefly in
-white-face character work.
-
-W. J. Ashcroft has resided in Europe for many years.
-
-
-MATT. WHEELER (Mathias Wittenwiler) is still with us. His first
-professional appearance was at Sanford’s Opera House, Harrisburg, Pa.,
-with Joe. Miller’s Minstrels in 1864. For several years following he
-played successful stock engagements at Baltimore, Philadelphia and
-other cities.
-
-Season of 1871-72 Mr. Wheeler was with Bishop’s Serenaders; the
-following year he joined the Morris Bros. Minstrels for a road tour.
-
-In 1873 he began a season’s engagement with Simmons and Slocum’s
-Minstrels at their theatre in Philadelphia; the following season was
-also spent in the Quaker City with Carncross’ Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Wheeler was with Haverly’s Minstrels early in 1877, and in the Fall
-of that year returned to Carncross’ Co., and remained there until the
-retirement of the latter, January 25, 1896. Mr. Wheeler continued with
-Frank Dumont when the latter took the management of the house two days
-later, and has since played several engagements there.
-
-While a member of stock in the Maryland Institute in 1869, Mr. Wheeler
-was very successful in the portrayal of such black-face character parts
-as Wool, in the “Hidden Hand”; Pete, in the “Octoroon,” and “Uncle
-Tom’s Cabin.”
-
-Matt. Wheeler was born in St. Gaul, Switzerland, March 4, 1843.
-
-
-CON. T. MURPHY (John D. Murphy), who was widely known as an actor,
-author and song-writer, was also very much of a minstrel, and a good
-interlocutor.
-
-He was with Bryant’s Company in New York at the opening of the season,
-September 1, 1873, and was identified with several other organizations.
-
-He was born in Cork, Ireland, in 1844; he died at Lake Bluff, Ill.,
-July 26, 1907.
-
-
-LITTLE MAC (Ebenezer Nicholson) was a dwarf scarcely more than three
-feet high. He took the name of Little Mac during the Civil War out of
-compliment to Gen. McClellan, who was very popular at that time. The
-major portion of his professional career was spent in New York with
-Bryant’s Minstrels, where he made his first appearance, November 27,
-1865.
-
-In the summer of 1869 with Hughey Dougherty, John Wild and Master
-Barney, he headed a minstrel company bearing their names.
-
-He subsequently returned to Bryant’s, where he remained until late in
-1871.
-
-Thereafter his engagements were desultory; his last regular appearance
-was with Daly Brothers in “Upside Down.” He was a clever comedian, and
-was prominently identified with his “Essence” and “Big Shoe Dance.”
-
-Little Mac was born in Brockville, Canada, July 11, 1844; he died in
-New York, April 7, 1890.
-
-
-TOMMY GETTINGS was a well-known jig dancer, and during his brief career
-had been with the Bryant’s in New York, and other well-known minstrel
-companies.
-
-He died in New York, November 25, 1866; age 22 years.
-
-
-BILLY RICE (Wm. H. Pearl). Minstrelsy knew no greater favorite than
-this once well-known comedian, who made his professional debut in
-Brooklyn, N. Y., in 1865, at Poole and Donnelly’s Theatre, appearing in
-black-face, and assuming the name by which he was always identified.
-
-He continued in the variety business mostly until 1869, when he joined
-Newcomb’s Minstrels; the following year he was with Hooley’s, in
-Brooklyn, and when that company made their first appearance in Chicago,
-January 2, 1871, Mr. Rice was a member.
-
-Late that year he became identified with Manning’s Minstrels in the
-same city, continuing there until about February 1, 1872, when he again
-joined Hooley in Brooklyn. Subsequently he was with Arlington, Cotton
-and Kemble’s Minstrels in Chicago, and later opened a variety theatre
-there.
-
-In 1874 he was with Emerson’s Minstrels in San Francisco and on tour,
-remaining several months. January 29, 1877, Rice and Hooley’s Minstrels
-opened in New York; later he rejoined Emerson, and the following year
-he became a member of Haverly’s Minstrels, with whom he continued
-several seasons.
-
-In 1882 Rice and Hooley’s Minstrels again was formed, terminating as
-Billy Rice’s Minstrels the following January, when he opened with
-Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Minstrels, and remained with them until
-1887, when Sweatnam, Rice and Fagan’s Minstrels were organized. Rice
-and Sheppard’s Minstrels in 1888, and subsequently with Cleveland’s
-Minstrels; Primrose and West’s and a return to Haverly’s Minstrels in
-1898 practically completed the minstrel career of the great end man and
-stump-speaker.
-
-Mr. Rice married Blanche Carman, an actress, April 8, 1871, in Chicago.
-
-Billy Rice was born in Marion, N. Y., December 12, 1844; he died in Hot
-Springs, Arkansas, March 1, 1902.
-
- * * * * *
-
-The Three Arnold Brothers were prominent in the 70’s and 80’s, but away
-back, March 21, 1862, there was another set with Mrs. Matt. Peel’s
-Minstrels; Herman, Frank and Richard Arnold respectively.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-WM. HENRY RICE made his first professional appearance as a boy singer
-in Pittsburgh, Pa., December 6, 1856.
-
-His first minstrel engagement was at Johnson’s Hall, Norfolk, Va.,
-September 19, 1859, with Sanford’s Minstrels, where he sang in the
-first part, did a dance in the olio, and otherwise was useful.
-
-At this time and until 1865 he was known as Master Lewis, and later, W.
-H. Lewis, the latter being the maiden name of his mother.
-
-In 1860 he was with Wood’s Minstrels, and Wm. A. Christy’s Minstrels.
-
-About July, 1861, he made his first appearance in New York as a variety
-performer at the Melodeon.
-
-In the fall of 1861 he joined Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Minstrels, and about
-March 1, following, he became a member of the famous Peak Family of
-Bell Ringers for a brief period, subsequently re-joining Mrs. Peel’s
-Company.
-
-In June, 1862, he was with George Christy’s Minstrels in New York, and
-soon after joined Duprez and Green’s Company, and Mead’s Minstrels.
-
-October 13, 1862, he made his first appearance with Hooley’s Minstrels
-in Brooklyn, N. Y.; in the spring of the following year he was with
-Horn and Newcomb’s Minstrels, the company subsequently was run by
-Newcomb alone.
-
-He left the latter and re-joined Duprez and Green in the fall of 1863.
-
-In March, 1864, he was with Yankee Hill’s Minstrels, and the next month
-re-joined Hooley for the balance of the season, again opening with him
-August 22, following.
-
-About March 1, 1865, he became a member of Cotton and Murphy’s
-Minstrels, opening at Fall River, Mass.; he left this company in the
-Fall of that year.
-
-November 20, 1865, he joined the famous San Francisco Minstrels of
-Birch, Bernard, Wambold and Backus, taking and using for the first time
-his own name. He remained with this company four years, in New York
-City. On June 14, 1869, he played his first engagement with Haverly’s
-Minstrels, opening at Baltimore; a few weeks later he was with
-Sharpley’s Minstrels in Boston.
-
-August 23, 1869, he began a season’s engagement with Carncross and
-Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, and July 2, following, he sailed for
-Europe, but did not play there.
-
-September 2, 1870, he opened with Welch, Hughes and White’s Minstrels
-in Brooklyn, N. Y.; at the initial performance of that organization; he
-closed there October 8, and two days later began a season’s engagement
-with Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-April 17, 1871, he opened in New York with Newcomb and Arlington’s
-Minstrels, continuing with them there and on tour several months.
-
-The following August he made his first appearance with Bryant’s
-Minstrels in New York; he remained the season, and in June, 1872,
-played an engagement in the same city with Sharpley’s Minstrels, after
-which he went to Cincinnati, and joined Newcomb’s Minstrels. In that
-city, September 2, 1872, the first performance of Rice’s Minstrels was
-given at Melodeon Hall; subsequently moving to Thom’s Hall, and later
-taking the road, where they disbanded about December 1.
-
-January 27, 1873, he re-appeared at Bryant’s, and finished the season
-there.
-
-He re-joined Simmons and Slocum in Philadelphia, August 25, 1873, and
-barring a brief interval, was with them all season.
-
-June 13, 1874, he sailed for England, making his first appearance there
-in Liverpool with Sam Hague’s Minstrels, July 13.
-
-August 31, following, he again joined Bryant’s Minstrels in New York,
-and continued there until the death of Dan Bryant, April 10, 1875; the
-following month he joined Emerson’s Minstrels in Chicago.
-
-August 12, 1876, he again sailed for England where he played a few
-weeks in the music halls.
-
-Returning to America he joined Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels for a
-tour, commencing November 20, 1876.
-
-After this engagement he played the variety houses principally until
-the Spring of 1878, when he engaged again with Haverly, opening in
-Chicago, and going to San Francisco; he left Haverly there and opened
-at the Bella Union, May 13.
-
-In the fall of 1878 he was with Neil Bryant’s Minstrels, and the
-following year with Joseph Norcross’ California Minstrels.
-
-[Illustration: QUARTETTE WITH BRYANT’S MINSTRELS, NEW YORK CITY, 1870.
-
-Sig. J. Brandisi, Harry Norman, Jas. G. Russell, W. P. Grier.]
-
-[Illustration: KELLY AND LEON’S MINSTRELS; NEW ZEALAND, 1878.
-
-From left to right--Chas. Kelly, J. H. Surridge, C. Fredericks, Wm.
-Ball and Billy Courtright.
-
-Wm. Blakeney, “Leon,” Edwin Kelly, “Japanese Tommy,” Beaumont Read.]
-
-January 3, 1881, he began one of the most successful engagements of his
-career, when he opened in his native city with Thatcher and Ryman’s
-Minstrels, playing the title role in a burlesque on Sarah Bernhardt,
-called “Sarah Heartburn;” his success was phenomenal; so much so that
-the great French actress expressed a desire to see the caricature
-of herself, and accordingly, on the afternoon of January 7, 1881, a
-special performance was given for her benefit; on this occasion the
-Philadelphia _Times_ of January 8, 1881, said: “Bernhardt looked up,
-blushing slightly as she perceived an enormous pair of glass bottles
-leveled at her in place of opera glasses by the cork female. Every eye
-in the house was riveted upon the woman whose characteristics were
-to be burlesqued, and the appearance of Rice was scarcely noticed
-for the second until Sarah herself showed her appreciation of the
-caricature by bursting into a fit of uncontrollable laughter. The agony
-displayed by Sarah Heartburn and her tumble on the stage only added to
-the merriment of Bernhardt. The fun continued and reached its climax
-when Rice and Ryman impersonated Camile and Armand. The imitations of
-Bernhardt’s stage attitudes, and gestures caused Sarah to laugh to an
-extent almost painful. She seemed unable to stop, although she placed
-her handkerchief over her mouth and leaned forward in the effort to
-restrain herself. She abandoned all attempts, however, when the death
-scene ensued and Heartburn threw herself upon the sofa, after the
-manner in which a diver starts for the bottom of the sea. Sarah gave
-vent to her sense of the ludicrous until her eyes were full of tears.
-There might have been danger of hysterics had not an attack of coughing
-interfered and had not George Thatcher made himself known as Victor,
-Heartburn’s son, blowing a horn and crying lustily. The concluding
-scene, however, again amused her, and she clapped her gloved hands
-right heartily, seemingly sorry when the curtain finally descended.”
-
-Mr. Rice went to London, England, with the act, where he produced it
-at Moore and Burgess’ Minstrels, opening June 20, 1881. Returning
-in August following, he joined Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s
-Minstrels for the season.
-
-August 21, 1882, he opened with Billy Rice and R. M. Hooley’s
-Minstrels; and in June following he played a special engagement with
-Haverly’s Minstrels in Chicago, after which he organized Rice’s
-Pleasure Party in “Our Goblins” for the season of 1883-84, playing a
-part in the play in black-face.
-
-August 25, 1884, he opened with the Standard Minstrels in San Francisco
-for a few weeks, closing October 4.
-
-July 30, 1885, he began the season with McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s
-Minstrels; he was with this company part of the season of 1886-87 also.
-September 12, 1887, in conjunction with John Hart and Add. Ryman, he
-organized a company bearing their names.
-
-December 24, 1888, he assumed the business management of the Star
-Theatre in Buffalo, N. Y., on the opening of that theatre; he resigned
-the position and soon after joined Johnson and Slavin’s Minstrels.
-
-In 1890 he organized the World’s Fair Minstrels, opening July 17,
-at Elizabeth, N. J. Season of 1891-92 he was with George Wilson’s
-Minstrels. May 16, same year, he played his first performance with
-Cleveland’s Minstrels, and continued with them intermittently until May
-1, 1896.
-
-In November, 1898, he opened with Bartlett’s California Minstrels for a
-brief season.
-
-July 31, 1899, he began a special engagement of four weeks with Wm. H.
-West’s Minstrels; October 9, same year, he opened with Harry Davis’
-Minstrels in Pittsburgh, Pa., in an attempt at making a permanent
-company in that city; he finished the season with Primrose and
-Dockstader’s Minstrels. About January, 1900, he began a series of
-annual engagements with Frank Dumont’s Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-His last traveling engagement was with the “Great Lafayette” Company in
-November, 1902.
-
-His last stage appearance was at Atlantic City, N. J., November 30,
-1907. The author has no exact knowledge of engagements said to have
-been played with Haverly, at Chicago in 1892; Kelly and Leon in New
-York in 1876, and with Duprez and Benedict’s Minstrels.
-
-It is obviously a delicate matter for one to speak of the talents,
-capabilities, etc., of one’s own father; but a reproduction of some
-notices from the press of the country, may not be considered bad form.
-
-The _Daily Commercial_ (Cincinnati) of July 29, 1863, said: “The
-singing of Mr. Lewis surprises us more and more. His imitations of the
-Prima Donna are superb, and the brilliant qualities of his singular
-voice are an unfailing theme for wonder among his hearers. The first
-time he breaks into a song he invariably startles his audience, who
-are simply prepared to hear the strained falsetto, to which the mock
-crinoline of minstrelsy has heretofore been committed.”
-
-The _Sun_ (Baltimore), July 11, 1865, said: “The voice of W. H. Lewis,
-the Prima Donna, is something remarkable, and it strikes us could be
-better employed than mere burlesquing.”
-
-The Philadelphia correspondent of the _New York Clipper_, September
-4, 1869, said: “This is Mr. Rice’s first appearance in his native
-city, and he has made a big hit, for on the night we were present, he
-received the only third encore, and a fourth was demanded, but not
-given.”
-
-The _Evening Post_ (Albany, N. Y.), of June 13, 1871, said: “Wm. Henry
-Rice does the Prima Donna capitally; he is one of the best grotesque
-singers we ever saw--Rice is a star of the first magnitude, and can
-infuse more low comedy into an operatic song than any other artist.”
-
-The _Stage_ (New York), November 13, 1871, said: “Nillson is capitally
-burlesqued by W. H. Rice, who never descends to vulgarity, and who
-displays his peculiar talents to the best possible advantage.”
-
-The _Era_ (New York), June 15, 1873, said: “One noticeable feature
-about the performance was the gorgeous dress of Mr. W. H. Rice, prima
-donna of Bryant’s company. The dress could not have cost less than
-nine hundred dollars. The workmanship was far superior to anything we
-have yet seen upon the stage. Neither Morris, Davenport or Ethel can
-boast of such rich apparel. * * * * * Rice deserves great praise for
-his painstaking endeavors. He is an excellent singer, and conscientious
-actor, and would only acquire the distinction he has already made
-but by application and study. To-day he is without a peer in the
-profession, and undoubtedly one of the best that ever appeared upon the
-minstrel stage.”
-
-An advertisement in a Liverpool, England, paper, of Hague’s Minstrels,
-July 20, 1874, reads, “Second week of the star Burlesque Prima Donna
-of the world, Mr. W. Henry Rice, whose success with the Hague’s is
-unprecedented in the history of minstrelsy in Liverpool. Each night
-at the conclusion of his performance Mr. Rice has received a most
-enthusiastic _call before the curtain_, an instance of popularity
-seldom equaled.”
-
-The _Times_ (Philadelphia), of December 17, 1901, said: “Wm. Henry Rice
-again made his appearance as a special member of the Dumont troupe, in
-the Eleventh Street Opera House, and duplicated his hit of last season
-in a new skit, “Roosevelt’s Reception,” in which he gave a grotesque
-feminine impersonation along the lines long ago made familiar by him.
-He is the best and one of the very last exemplars of an older style of
-burnt-cork fun-making than obtains to-day, and was wholly successful
-with last evening’s audience.”
-
-Frank Dumont, in an interview in the _North American_ (Philadelphia),
-Dec. 29, 1907, said: “* * * To my dying day I will not forget his scene
-where Camille writes to the father of Armand that she will give him up.
-Talk about acting! Why, he had Bernhardt beaten a mile in that scene.
-It was the purest burlesque I have ever seen. For more than twenty
-minutes he would keep the audience in convulsions of laughter. No end
-man ever equaled him as a genuine comedian.
-
-“I really think he ought to be classed among the greatest of actors. I
-mean the really great ones, for his work was as much of an art as that
-of the most classic actors that are world-famous. * * * He deserves
-to live in the traditions of the stage. * * * ‘Bill’ was too fond of
-Philadelphia to remain long away from it. Here he wanted to live and
-die; and he had his wish.”
-
-Wm. Henry Rice was born in Philadelphia, June 1, 1844; he died there
-December 20, 1907.
-
- * * * * *
-
-Frank Cushman’s life’s ambition was to be associated with a minstrel
-company in his native city. He died as it was about to be realized.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-G. WASHINGTON (“Slim Jim”) DUKELAN. Probably no active musician in
-theatredom has had a more varied and lengthy career than “Slim Jim,”
-so named in 1864, by G. Brooks Clark, the well-known ring master; Mr.
-Dukelan was about six feet high, and 130 in avoirdupois then; he has
-filled in considerably since, but he’s still “Slim Jim,” and probably
-always will continue so. As Will Shakespeare once remarked, “A Rose
-with any other name, etc.”
-
-His very first public appearance was with an amateur minstrel show,
-doing a song and dance, about 1862, at Fulton, N. Y. Two years later
-he began his professional career as member of the band in A. P. Ball’s
-American Coliseum Circus; with this troupe G. W. once did an “end.”
-
-Mr. Dukelan was with various organizations until 1868, when he joined
-the Flint (Mich.) band; he remained there some time, subsequently
-allying himself with several well-known miscellaneous companies until
-September 15, 1877, when he joined Harry Saxton’s famous theatre
-orchestra at Mitchell’s Theatre Comique, St. Louis, Mo.; he continued
-there for three years, then going with Mr. Saxton to the old Howard
-Athenæum, in Boston, Mass., where he remained four years; at the end
-of this period, with this same Saxton at the Grand Central Theatre in
-Philadelphia, he commenced an engagement that lasted three years.
-
-Now comes the “Slim Jim” we all know. From 1887 to 1889 he was with
-Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Minstrels; following season with Primrose
-and West. In 1890 he was with George Thatcher’s Minstrels, and the
-following year with Thatcher in “Tuxedo” (here “slender James” enacted
-a “rube”). In 1892 he was with Hughey Dougherty’s “Tuxedo” and Minstrel
-Company.
-
-It was not until 1893 that our friend qualified as a “real trouper;”
-he then joined Stowe’s “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” Company. He played in the
-first performance of Primrose and Dockstader’s Minstrels in 1898, and
-continued with them two seasons; in 1900 he was with William H. West’s
-Minstrels, subsequently he returned to Primrose and Dockstader, and
-remained with them until the dissolution of the organization in 1903.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- JOE. B. McGEE
-
- ALF. GIBSON
-
- JERRY HART
-
- EDDIE CASSADY
-
- BILLY VAN
-
-OUR ENGLISH COUSINS WOULD CALL THEM GOOD CORNER MEN.]
-
-He played at the inaugural performance of Cohan and Harris’ Minstrels
-in 1908, and is at present with George Evans’ Minstrels.
-
-G. Washington (Slim Jim) Dukelan was born at Smith’s Falls, Canada,
-January 12, 1844; but you’d never believe it--the year, of course.
-
-
-HUGHEY DOUGHERTY--if you never heard of him, better get acquainted now.
-
-His real career began Monday evening, January 4, 1858, at the famous
-11th Street Opera House, in his native city, with Sanford’s Minstrels;
-it was Sam Sanford who christened him “Young America,” and the title
-stuck to him for many years; other performers appropriated it, but it
-originated with Hughey Dougherty; “stick a pin in dar, Brudder Bones.”
-He continued with Sanford until 1860, when he went to Frank River’s
-Melodeon, also in the Quaker City.
-
-Mr. Dougherty’s greatest success was made as a stump-speaker, when the
-art had its greatest vogue thirty odd years ago; though he occasionally
-gives a speech, and is apparently as good as ever.
-
-He has been associated with the greatest minstrel companies of the
-past and present, such as Skiff and Gaylord’s; Simmons and Slocum’s,
-(Philadelphia); Thatcher, Primrose and West’s; Hooley’s (Brooklyn);
-Cleveland’s; Morris Brothers (Boston), three years; Carncross’, and
-Carncross and Dixey’s (Philadelphia); Johnson and Slavin’s; Moore and
-Burgess’ (London, Eng.); Barlow, Wilson’s; Barlow, Wilson and Rankin’s;
-Haverly; and Duprez and Benedict. In addition there was Dougherty, Wild
-(John) Barney (Master) and Mac’s (Little) Minstrels, who gave their
-first performance July 12, 1869.
-
-About three years later he formed an alliance with Messrs. Harvey,
-Leslie and Braham; they organized a minstrel show and made an extensive
-tour of Africa. June 18, 1877, he opened the Alhambra Palace, a variety
-theatre in Philadelphia. Mr. Dougherty also has a record, unique in
-minstrelsy--just about one-half of his professional career was spent
-at the theatre in which he made his debut; and one-half of the total
-number was with Dumont’s Minstrels.
-
-Hughey Dougherty was born in Philadelphia, July 4, 1844.
-
-
-BILLY EMMETT (George Busteed) was known chiefly in his later years as a
-manager, notably of the Academy of Music in Chicago.
-
-While yet in his teens he became stage struck, and after a few
-inconspicuous engagements, began playing dates in the variety houses,
-doing a black-face specialty. In 1864 he went to Carr’s Melodeon,
-Buffalo, N. Y., and with Nick Norton, did Dutch character sketches.
-The following year he was with Green’s “Mocking Bird” Minstrels, and
-in 1866 went to New York, where he played several seasons with the San
-Francisco Minstrels. He was associated at various times with John L.
-Sullivan, Callender’s Minstrels and Sam Hague’s Minstrels, the latter
-in the early 80’s.
-
-Mr. Emmett was noted for his philanthropy; at one time he was reputed
-to have left word in the Chicago hospitals, that in the event of the
-death of any improvident variety or minstrel performer, not to give a
-pauper burial, but to notify him (Emmett) at once.
-
-A few more “Billy Emmett’s” and the Actor’s Fund would not be so
-heavily burdened.
-
-Billy Emmett was born in New York City, in 1844; he died in Chicago,
-June 4, 1886.
-
-
-MCKEE and ROGERS joined forces in the Fall of 1871, and during the
-first years of their co-partnership played the principal variety houses
-and specialty companies of their day.
-
-Their first joint appearance was in St. Louis, Mo., where they gave
-their original song and dance “Rebecca Jane;” with it they were ever
-after identified, as well as “Mischief,” “Lucinda” and several others.
-
-About 1874 they went to London, England, where they played a most
-successful engagement with Moore and Burgess’ Minstrels.
-
-On their return to the United States in 1875, they joined Tony Pastor’s
-road company, and continued with it until the death of Rogers.
-
-Stevie Rogers, or “Little Stevie,” as he was generally called, was one
-of the most lovable characters in minstrelsy. As a clog dancer he was
-second to none in his day.
-
-His first professional appearance was with the 50 Engineer Pontoon
-Minstrels, September 5, 1865; this company in the spring of the
-following year was known as Sam Hague’s and Cal. Wagner’s Minstrels.
-With that company he had a partner by the name of John O’Brien.
-
-Stevie Rogers’ success was so pronounced that he quickly obtained a
-metropolitan engagement with Charley White.
-
-Subsequently he was with Kelly and Leon’s in New York, and Hooley’s
-Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y.
-
-In 1870 he joined Manning’s Minstrels, and on August 21, 1871, he
-opened with the Dearborn Minstrels in Chicago. About this time he met
-Andy McKee, and the rest has been told.
-
-Stevie Rogers was born in Elmira, N. Y., December 11, 1853; he died in
-New York City, March 3, 1876.
-
-Andy McKee first appeared professionally in 1865 at Cairo, Illinois.
-
-Mr. McKee’s success was so pronounced with his eccentric dancing,
-that he had little trouble in obtaining other variety engagements in
-Memphis, New Orleans, Cincinnati and St. Louis.
-
-In 1867 he played his first minstrel engagement with Skiff and Gaylord;
-other prominent engagements were with Hooley, and with Simmons and
-Slocum. Later he joined Manning’s Minstrels, and subsequently met and
-joined forces with Stevie Rogers.
-
-After the death of the latter he went to Europe with Hall’s New York
-Minstrels, playing Scotland and Ireland; subsequently re-organizing
-with Lew Simmons and Charley Sutton, they went to South Africa, opening
-at Cape Town, March 17, 1879; thus preceding Colonel Roosevelt in the
-exploration of that country just thirty years. Afterwards Mr. McKee
-formed a partnership with John F. Byrne, of the Brothers Byrne.
-
-And here’s two more little items. After Stevie Rogers’ death, Mr. McKee
-doubled with Charley Walters for a brief season, opening at the Olympic
-Theatre, New York, August 28, 1876, and--that same year at the Globe
-Theatre, also same city, Mr. McKee created the character of Cy. Prime,
-in “Josh Whitcomb;” the latter subsequently evolutioned into the “Old
-Homestead.”
-
-Andy McKee was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, May 11, 1844; and is now
-a citizen of Seattle, Washington.
-
-
-GEORGE WILSON. Few monologue performers have worn so well with the
-public as George Wilson, whose minstrel career began about forty years
-ago in San Francisco, as co-proprietor of Courtright (Billy), Farren
-(T. S.) and Wilson’s Minstrels; Mr. Wilson was the song and dance
-performer with this company.
-
-It was not until the fall of 1871 that he decided to adopt minstrelsy
-as a regular profession, which he did in Chicago.
-
-Mr. Wilson’s talents must have been thoroughly appreciated, for when
-later he accepted an engagement of four weeks at the Theatre Comique,
-in Detroit, his success was so pronounced that he remained nine months.
-
-Then came a season with Fred Wilson’s (his brother) Minstrels in St.
-Louis; by this time his fame had reached Jack Haverly, who engaged Mr.
-Wilson for his company; this was at Kansas City, Mo., in November,
-1873; he remained under the Haverly banner until August, 1877, when
-in conjunction with Milt. Barlow, George H. Primrose and William H.
-West, the big company bearing their names gave their first performance,
-August 20, same year.
-
-Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s was one of the greatest minstrel
-companies that ever performed; the dissolution of this alliance
-occurred in the summer of 1882.
-
-Thereafter Mr. Wilson and Milt. Barlow organized Barlow, Wilson and
-Co.’s Minstrels; subsequently Barlow, Wilson and Rankin’s, and lastly
-George Wilson’s Minstrels, which were instituted in 1888; the final
-performance of the latter was at Danbury, Conn., February, 1892.
-
-Subsequently Mr. Wilson played under the management of Primrose and
-West for a period of about five years; one season, 1894, he appeared in
-white-face, as well as black, in the musical play of “Monte Carlo.”
-
-In the summer of 1898, Mr. Wilson, in conjunction with W. S. Cleveland,
-organized the Wilson-Cleveland Minstrels; this was his last minstrel
-venture; since then he has played vaudeville exclusively, until the
-Spring of 1910, when he joined George Primrose’s Minstrels for a few
-weeks. August 15, same year, he played his first engagement in his
-native city at The Empire.
-
-Mr. Wilson may justly look with pride on his long career as a
-black-face star.
-
-George Wilson was born in London, England, September 28, 1844.
-
-
-HI HENRY (Hiram Patrick Henry). For three decades Hi Henry’s Minstrels
-have been an institution that has been known nearly all over the United
-States.
-
-Mr. Henry is an accomplished cornettist, and before he entered the
-ranks of minstrel proprietors, he was many years in the dramatic
-business, notably as leader of the band with the Wallace Sisters
-combination in 1872.
-
-On May 4, 1875, he joined Sam Price’s Minstrels, and in September,
-1879, the first performance of Hi Henry’s Minstrels was given, and
-barring the season of 1889-90, when he directed a tour of Estelle
-Clayton’s, the company has made an annual tour ever since.
-
-The past few years Mr. Henry has not been actively engaged with his
-company, owing to ill health.
-
-Hi Henry was born in Buffalo, N. Y., August 22, 1844.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- WM. E.--HINES & BLOSSOM--NAT.
- (Portraits reversed)
-
- LEW.--SIMMONS & WHITE--FRANK H.
-
- JNO.--QUEEN & WEST--WM.
- (Portraits reversed)
-
- JAS.--TIERNEY & WAYNE--CHAS.]
-
-
-WILLIAM FOOTE, the well-known minstrel manager, began and ended his
-career in that branch of theatricals.
-
-In 1861 he was treasurer with M. C. Campbell’s Minstrels; and in 1864
-was agent for Haverly and Mallory; this being one of Haverly’s earliest
-minstrel ventures.
-
-Subsequently he was associated with Sam Sharpley, La Rue and many of
-the earlier burnt cork troupes.
-
-In conjunction with Mr. Haverly, on January 1, 1876, he re-organized
-the New Orleans Minstrels, and when Haverly amalgamated the famous
-Mastodons in 1878, Mr. Foote was manager, and continued in that
-capacity for several years.
-
-William Foote was born in Utica, N. Y., February 22, 1844; he died in
-Albany, N. Y., March 2, 1899.
-
-
-J. C. CAMPBELL (George Keller St. John), better known as “Pomp”
-Campbell, from the fact that he portrayed the character of “Pomp” in
-the play of that name in 1871, was a printer by trade, in Dayton, Ohio.
-
-He was an excellent comedian and equally clever as a tambourine or bone
-player. His first important engagement was with the Morris Minstrels in
-the middle 60’s; subsequently he was with Kelly and Leon in New York,
-opening there August 31, 1868; also with John Hooley and Hawxhurst’s
-Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y., in 1873.
-
-J. C. Campbell was born in Frederick, Md.; he died in Brooklyn, N. Y.,
-January 26, 1875; age 31 years.
-
-
-GEO. FROTHINGHAM, the famous basso, who created and played Friar
-Tuck in “Robin Hood,” more than 3,000 times, was many years in the
-minstrel profession, and as far back as 1869 was with Dougherty, Wild,
-Barney and Mac’s Minstrels, also Sharpley’s, Billy Morris’ and Swayne
-Buckley’s Minstrels.
-
-In the late 70’s and early 80’s he sat in the middle with Carncross and
-Dixey’s and Carncross’ Minstrels, respectively, in Philadelphia.
-
-An interesting photo of Mr. Frothingham will be found elsewhere in the
-book.
-
-George Frothingham was born in Boston, Mass., April 12, 1844.
-
-
-DICK RALPH. This good old-timer made his first appearance at Burtis’
-Varieties, Brooklyn, N. Y., under the name of Master Tommy, in 1860,
-doing a jig and the “Essence”; in 1861 he was with Christy’s Minstrels
-under the name of Mast. Dick Reynolds; a year later he was “Mast.
-Brigg” with Campbell’s Minstrels, in New York City.
-
-In 1863 he decided that his own name was good enough, and as such he
-opened at Hooley’s Minstrels, Brooklyn, N. Y. Other minstrel companies
-he was identified with were--Cool White’s Broadway Minstrels; Hooley’s,
-New York City (201 Bowery); Cotton and Sharpley’s, New York City;
-return to Hooley’s, Brooklyn, 1869; Kelly and Leon’s, New York City;
-Sam Sharpley’s, and Kelly and Leon’s, Chicago.
-
-Mr. Ralph was a popular end man, being equally proficient with the
-bones or tambourine; but it was as a dancer that he excelled; his
-“Essence” and “George, the Charmer,” are well remembered by many; he
-was likewise a versatile musician.
-
-Mr. Ralph appeared some years ago in the drama, “Our South,” with
-success.
-
-Dick Ralph was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., March 22, 1844--but not on Good
-Friday, as he avers; that day fell on April 5, that year.
-
-
-MELVIN S. KURTZ was a comedian and song and dance performer; his first
-appearance was in Philadelphia about 1862.
-
-He was the husband of Marie Van Zandt, actress, whom he married about
-1874.
-
-Mr. Kurtz’s last appearance was October 15, 1881.
-
-He was horn in Lancaster, Pa., July 29, 1844; he died in Philadelphia,
-March 20, 1882.
-
-
-“RICARDO” (Foley McKeever) well and favorably known as a clever female
-impersonator, was with Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Minstrels about 1863.
-
-Subsequently he appeared with the Associated Artists of Kelly and Leon
-in 1869. Early in 1870 he joined Billy Emerson’s Minstrels, and on
-April 10, 1871, made his debut with Manning’s Minstrels in Chicago.
-
-He was a member of Haverly’s Minstrels in November, 1873, after the
-latter withdrew from Cal. Wagner. Later he was associated with some of
-the principal minstrel organizations.
-
-“Ricardo” was born in Ireland, about 1844; he died in New York City,
-October 30, 1883.
-
-
-JOHN UNSWORTH is the only living representative of Anderson’s
-Minstrels, organized in Boston late in 1859.
-
-Mr. Unsworth was associated with his brother, James Unsworth, and
-“Eugene” practically their entire professional careers.
-
-He was born in Liverpool, England, January 12, 1844--and is not sorry.
-
-
-JOHNNY ALLEN (George Erb) was an excellent comedian and dancer, and
-especially well remembered for his “Nicodemus Johnson,” a song and
-dance. His first appearance in black-face was in 1861. October 23, 1865
-he joined Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y. March 5, 1866 he was
-at the opening of Seaver’s Minstrel Hall, same city, and October 1,
-he was also at the initial performance of Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels
-in New York; Emerson, Allen and Manning’s Minstrels gave their first
-performance in Brooklyn, N. Y., in June, 1868. Mr. Allen seceded
-from the organization May 22, following, and a month later helped to
-organize Allen and Sam Sharpley’s Minstrels.
-
-Brooklyn, N. Y., also saw the first performance of Allen, Pettengill,
-Delehanty and Hengler’s Minstrels, September 22, 1869; a few months
-later it was Johnny Allen’s Minstrels. Mr. Allen next branched out as
-a German comedian in the play of “Schneider.” He continued alternately
-with this and minstrel engagements until the early 80’s; the first
-performance of “Schneider” was on March, 24, 1871. April 6, 1874, he
-opened with Hart and Ryman’s Minstrels and a few weeks later Johnny
-Allen’s Cosmopolitan Minstrels toured briefly. When Dan. Bryant died,
-April 10, 1875, Mr. Allen sat in the latter’s chair in New York, and
-when May 3, following, Neil Bryant’s Minstrels were organized, Johnny
-Allen was with them. September 18, 1876, he re-appeared with Kelly and
-Leon’s Minstrels in New York. Johnny Allen was born in Newark, N. J.,
-April 20, 1844; he died there January 16, 1885.
-
-
-CHARLEY SUTTON (Leman). This well-known performer of the past was
-a member of the “Young Campbell’s Minstrels,” a famous amateur
-organization of Boston, about 1860.
-
-Mr. Sutton was a comedian of unquestionable ability, and had been with
-most of the prominent minstrel organizations of his time, notably
-Emerson’s Minstrels in San Francisco, later going to Australia with
-that company, opening at Melbourne, August 2, 1873. He was with Charley
-Morris’ Minstrels in 1877, and afterwards with Hooley’s.
-
-He sailed for Europe April 24, 1880, and joined Moore and Burgess’
-Minstrels, in London, and remained there for some time. About 1885 he
-became one of the team of Bunth and Rudd, doing a grotesque act in
-white-face; he was thereafter known as Hugo Bunth.
-
-Charles Sutton was born in Boston, Mass., in 1844; he died in Moscow,
-Russia, January 27, 1904.
-
-
-BILLY WILD, the old-time black-face performer, made his first
-professional appearance at the Bella Union Theatre, San Francisco,
-about 1866, doing a black-face song and dance. In 1871 he was with
-Unsworth’s Minstrels. Later he formed a partnership with Charley
-Armstrong; they played an engagement with Simmons and Slocum’s
-Minstrels about 1873, in Philadelphia.
-
-Mr. Wild’s last black face appearance was at the Howard Athenæum, in
-Boston, in 1886. Billy Wild was born in New York, January 21, 1844.
-
-
-NEIL ROGERS, a capable and clever comedian, and a brother of Stevie
-Rogers, had a comparatively brief career as a minstrel.
-
-His last appearance was at Pastor’s Theatre in New York. He was born in
-Elmira, and died in New York, February 28, 1873.
-
-
-HARRY BLOODGOOD (Carlos Moran) was one of the most accomplished and
-versatile performers that ever blacked his face; good in everything he
-undertook; he could sing, dance and act.
-
-He made his first New York appearance at the American Theatre, and
-remained there one year. In May, 1866, he joined Boyce and Mudge’s
-Minstrels; subsequently appearing with Sam Sharpley’s, and later with
-Joseph Trowbridge, he had the Bloodgood and Trowbridge’s Minstrels;
-their season ended July 16, 1871; Mr. Bloodgood then taking his own
-show, with which he traveled intermittently for several seasons.
-
-In 1869 he also was associated with Delehanty, Hengler and Bloodgood’s
-Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Bloodgood was without exception the most pronounced favorite that
-ever played the old Howard Athenæum in Boston; he was in the stock
-there at various times, covering a period of several years.
-
-About 1881 he wrote and appeared in the play, “Hix’s Fix,” sharing the
-lead with W. A. Mestayer; the piece was afterwards called “Wanted, A
-Partner.”
-
-Mr. Bloodgood married Helene Smith, the danseuse, about 1864; they were
-divorced in the spring of 1867; and on January 20, 1870, in Boston,
-he married Clara Gettis, also a dancer. It was not until about three
-years later that he found connubial blessedness, when he married Lisle
-Riddell, with whom he lived most happily the balance of his life.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- FRANK GEYER
- (of Turner & Geyer)
-
- HEN. ALLEN
- (of Devere & Allen)
-
- ARTIE HUGHES
- (of Foster & Hughes)
-
- EDW. SANDS
- (of Keating & Sands)
-
- JOHN BOWMAN
- (of Bowman & Harris)
-
- TOMMY TURNER
- (of Three Turner Brothers)
-
- FRED BRYANT
- (of Bryant & Hoey)
-
- EDDIE BOGERT
- (of Bogert & O’Brien)
-
- BILLY WILLIAMS
- (of Williams & Sully)
-
- CHARLEY SEAMON
- (of Seamon & Sommers)
-
- JOHN D. GILBERT
- (of Courtright & Gilbert)
-
- EDW. KENNEDY
- (of Cheevers & Kennedy)
-
-“ALL ALONE”; THEY PINE FOR THEIR PARTNERS.]
-
-Mr. Bloodgood made a distinct hit playing Uncle Tom at the Boston
-Theatre, with an all-star cast.
-
-Harry Bloodgood was born in Savannah, Georgia, March 31, 1845; he died
-in N. Conway, N. H., June 12, 1886.
-
-
-LUCIUS M. PHELPS, of the well-known song and dance team of Stiles
-and Phelps, also Armstrong, Stiles and Phelps, had been out of the
-profession about four years prior to his death, which occurred in
-Springfield, Mass., about August, 1876.
-
-He had been with Unsworth’s Minstrels in 1871; Moran and Dixey’s in
-1872, and also with the companies of Skiff and Gaylord, Carncross and
-Dixey, and Hooley’s.
-
-
-NED FOX was a brother of Jim Fox, of Goss and Fox, and was very well
-known during his comparatively brief career, as a comedian of more than
-ordinary merit.
-
-After his death, the following lines by Billy Devere, were dedicated to
-his (Fox’s) widow:
-
- “Another old-timer gone they said.
- As I came to the green-room door to-night;
- Another “old pard” has passed away
- To that beauteous land of joy and light--
- Buoyed aloft by a Saviour’s love,
- Searching the home of the good and true
- As Noah from the Ark sent the carrier dove
- Out of the old world into the new.”
-
-Ned Fox died at Hartford, Conn., March 28, 1875; age about 30 years.
-
-
-W. S. MULLALLY was one of the best and most prominent of minstrel
-leaders.
-
-As early as when he was fifteen years of age he was leader at a Boston
-theatre. His final minstrel engagement was about 1864 with Hy. Rumsey’s
-Company.
-
-The following year he joined the San Francisco Minstrels in New York,
-and continued with them about fifteen years. In the summer of 1869 he
-played in Liverpool, England, with Smith and Taylor’s Minstrels. He was
-with Charley Reed’s Minstrels in San Francisco in 1884.
-
-Subsequently he played an extended engagement with Dockstader’s
-Minstrels in New York, and later was with several legitimate and
-farcical attractions. He had composed considerable dramatic and popular
-music, and was the author of “Mottoes That Are Framed Upon the Wall.”
-
-He was born in Manchester, England, in 1845; he died in Westboro,
-Mass., August 2, 1905.
-
-
-HARRY PERCY (John H. Peabody) a prominent vocalist of many important
-minstrel companies, died at Jersey City, N. J., January 2, 1880.
-
-
-CHARLES GOODYEAR was well-known as a capable and clever comedian.
-
-He entered the profession when a boy, and had been prominently
-associated with such well-known minstrel organizations as Haverly’s,
-Primrose and West’s, and Cleveland’s. He was also co-proprietor of
-Goodyear, Cook and Dillon’s, and Goodyear, Schilling and Elitch’s
-Minstrels.
-
-He was especially instrumental in the planning and building of Elitch’s
-Garden in Denver, Colorado, and had been connected with it since its
-opening.
-
-Charles Goodyear was born on Staten Island, N. Y., February 18, 1845;
-he died in Denver, Colorado, May 13, 1897.
-
-
-JOHNNY SHAY, who excelled in the delineation of negro characters, began
-his professional career in Louisville, Ky.
-
-He was several seasons with Harrigan and Hart in New York, where he
-enjoyed wide popularity.
-
-He was born in Liverpool, England, in 1845; he died in New York,
-October 20, 1879.
-
-
-JOHNNY MCVEIGH entered the variety profession about 1858; he was a good
-black-face performer and dancer.
-
-He was born in Bambury, England, in 1845; he died in New York, January
-20, 1883.
-
-
-“LOTTA” (Lotta Crabtree), one of the greatest and most famous
-soubrettes of the American stage, “blacked up” many times in her early
-career. In October, 1863, she was a member of a minstrel company
-playing Virginia City, California, at Maguire’s Theatre.
-
- * * * * *
-
-Barry Maxwell says that when he was with Spalding and Manning’s
-Minstrels more than four years ago, a colored boy in Columbia, Tenn.,
-came up and asked for the boss; having found him, he inquired if he
-wanted anyone to “tote catalogues.” He wanted to pass bills.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-WILLIS PALMER SWEATNAM, long known to his familiars as “Billy,” began
-his theatrical career at the age of seven years, playing comedy parts
-in white-face with a juvenile company called the Union Children.
-
-His first black-face appearance was at the Western Museum in
-Cincinnati, four years later, occupying the bone end in a minstrel show.
-
-Mr. Sweatnam entered minstrelsy proper at the age of fifteen, when he
-was a member of a boat show plying the Little Miami Canal in Ohio;
-the boat was the “Huron,” and was the fastest boat of that name that
-traveled the canal. Mr. Sweatnam shortly after this went South, and
-became lessee of the Savannah Theatre, where minstrel performances were
-given.
-
-Subsequently he became a member of Fred Wilson’s Minstrels in St.
-Louis, Newcomb’s Minstrels in Cincinnati, Skiff and Gaylord’s, and
-Morris Brothers.
-
-Mr. Sweatnam was the principal comedian of Simmons and Slocum’s
-Minstrels at the opening of that famous organization in Philadelphia.
-September 6, 1875, he was taken in as a partner, the firm name being
-Simmons, Slocum and Sweatnam’s Minstrels, by which it was known until
-October 28, 1876, after which it became Sweatnam’s Minstrels, and
-later, December 25, 1876, Sweatnam and Fraser’s Minstrels. Mr. Sweatnam
-played several engagements in San Francisco with Charley Reed’s,
-Emerson’s, and Maguire’s Minstrels; with Dockstader’s, and Birch and
-Backus in New York; with Haverly in Chicago, also in Europe; Moore and
-Burgess in London, England, and Carncross in Philadelphia.
-
-In 1887, commencing July 25, at Albany, N. Y., Sweatnam, Rice and
-Fagan’s Minstrels were organized; this was one of the most magnificent
-companies of its kind the world ever saw.
-
-Mr. Sweatnam subsequently played an extended engagement with
-Cleveland’s Minstrels, and shortly afterwards made his appearance
-in the “City Directory,” a famous farce of twenty years ago; he was
-with this company three seasons; several more under the management of
-Charles E. Blaney, and then with the “County Chairman” for three years.
-
-He was next seen in “George Washington, Jr.”; in all of these plays Mr.
-Sweatnam’s art shone forth resplendently.
-
-As a delineator of the negro character he is alone and without a peer;
-there is but one Sweatnam, nor is it likely we will ever have another.
-During the present season of 1910 he played a black-face part with the
-“Summer Widowers.”
-
-Willis P. Sweatnam was born in Zanesville, Ohio.
-
-
-FRANK HOWARD (Martindale), famed as one of minstrelsy’s greatest
-tenors, and who was with McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s; Thatcher,
-Primrose and West’s, and Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s Minstrels
-in the 80’s; is said to be living in Chicago.
-
-
-CHARLES FOSTELLE (Stephens) of late years was best known for his
-portrayal of eccentric female characters, but long before--well, just
-read on.
-
-His first appearance was made in Detroit, Mich., in dramatic stock. The
-year following he made his first appearance in black-face with Cal.
-Wagner’s Minstrels, as a wench dancer.
-
-Subsequent minstrel engagements were with Billy Arlington’s; Dingess
-and Green’s; Harry Robinson’s; Simmons and Slocum’s, (Philadelphia);
-(Wm. Henry) Rice’s, in Cincinnati; Purdy and Vincent’s; Arlington,
-Cotton and Kemble’s; Allen, Delehanty and Hengler’s, and his own
-company, Purdy, Scott and Fostelle’s Minstrels, opening at Denver,
-Colorado, March 4, 1872. His last minstrel engagement was with
-Sweatnam, Rice and Fagan’s Minstrels, season of 1887-88.
-
-Since then Mr. Fostelle has appeared with Corinne for ten years;
-starred in “Mrs. Partington” for five years, and for a season was
-located in New York City with the Weber & Field’s Company.
-
-Charles Fostelle was born in New York City, and he’s there now.
-
-
-JOHN S. STOUT (Shafer) is one of the best-known singers in minstrelsy.
-
-He first appeared with Rumsey’s Minstrels in 1864, and has appeared
-successfully, if not successively with such well known companies as
-Skiff and Gaylord’s; Buckley’s; Simmons and Slocum’s; Haverly’s;
-Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s; Sharpley’s; Duprez and Benedict’s;
-Cal. Wagner’s and many others.
-
-His last minstrel engagement was with the Barlow, Wilson Company.
-
-John S. Stout was born in Dayton, Ohio, July 4, 1845.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- JOE. BUCKLEY
-
- BOB. SHEPPARD
-
- JOHN L. CARNCROSS
-
- BOB. FRASER
-
- JAMES GLENN
-
- EPH. HORN
-
-A PAGE OF PHILADELPHIANS.]
-
-
-ROBERT J. FILKINS, at one time one of Haverly’s most valued executives,
-got his early schooling with John Robinson’s circus; with which
-organization he became identified with in about 1867.
-
-In 1874 he met Col. Haverly in New Orleans, and at once joined the
-latter’s forces, and continued under the Haverly banner for three years.
-
-In 1879 he was in charge of the business management of the present 14th
-Street Theatre, New York, at that time Haverly’s Theatre.
-
-Grace Filkins, the present well-known actress, was his wife.
-
-Robert J. Filkins was born in Michigan; he died in Wichita, Kansas,
-April 19, 1886; age about 40 years.
-
-
-IKE WITHERS was one of the early ones to do a musical act in a minstrel
-show.
-
-His first professional appearance was with Bryant’s Minstrels in New
-York in 1862.
-
-Subsequent minstrel engagements were with Wilson’s Minstrels in St.
-Louis; Kelly and Leon’s; Newcomb and Arlington’s; Skiff and Gaylord’s;
-Sharpley’s; Simmons and Slocum’s, and the San Franciscos, in New York,
-where he remained thirteen years.
-
-Ike Withers was born in Palmyra, N. Y., July 29, 1845; he is now a
-guest at the Actors’ Home, Staten Island, N. Y.
-
-
-JAMES SHARPLEY was the last surviving member of the three Sharpley’s;
-Fred, Charles and James; a prominent musical act of the 70’s.
-
-Mr. Sharpley, who had been blind some time previous to his death, was
-an exceptionally clever performer on the concertina.
-
-He was born in Liverpool, England, and died in New York City, May 12,
-1902; age 57 years.
-
-
-WILLIAM H. CRANE, one of America’s foremost legitimate comedians,
-appeared in black-face with an amateur organization called the “Young
-Campbell” Minstrels; Mr. Crane fixes the date in the fall of 1860.
-
-The little band were offered $2.50 a piece to play the small town of
-Stoughton, Mass., irrespective of the fact that the comedians services
-might possibly be rated higher than one of the musicians. Nevertheless
-the juvenile “corkers” accepted; the $30.00 went into the coffers of
-the most popular restaurant to be found that same evening.
-
-William H. Crane was born in Leicester, Mass., April 30, 1845.
-
-
-R. G. (“BOOTS”) ALLEN was an excellent banjoist and in conjunction with
-Fred. Huber in 1878-79, played the principal variety houses.
-
-In the Spring of 1880, with Harry Woodson, he formed Woodson and
-Allen’s Minstrels, which continued at intermittent periods for about
-two or three years.
-
-In December, 1881, he played an engagement with Emerson’s Minstrels
-in San Francisco, and in the summer of 1886 Allen’s Banjo Minstrels
-inaugurated a brief season.
-
-R. G. Allen died May 21, 1892; age 47 years.
-
-
-B. C. HART, who has so long and ably represented the New York _Morning
-Telegraph_, and who is personally known to nearly every vaudevillian
-in the country, did a black-face act with the late Billy Barry in
-Memphis, Tenn., in 1868; that was the first. Since then and as late as
-1881, Mr. Hart met with flattering success in his portrayal of “Old
-Black Joe” and in the sketch of the “Old Servant’s Return.”
-
-As a “bingler on the bones,” and “thumber of the tambourine,” Mr. Hart
-has often responded to “Gentlemen, be seated.” Now for a secret. B. C.
-Hart was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, September 10, 1845. Wouldn’t believe
-it would you?
-
-
-SHERIDAN AND MACK were a great protean character sketch team. They
-never had their superiors, and it is doubtful if their equal was known
-during their partnership, which was formed in the middle 60’s, doing
-black-face songs and dances. They soon left off burnt cork and were
-the first recognized black-face team to do so. They played innumerable
-minstrel engagements, and were always in demand. Mr. Sheridan’s first
-professional appearance was April 12, 1864. After separating from Mr.
-Mack he played minstrel engagements, doing a single specialty. Later he
-went to Australia where he met with phenomenal success playing a female
-Irish part in “Fun on the Bristol.”
-
-John F. Sheridan was born in Providence, R. I.; he died in Sydney,
-Australia, December 25, 1908.
-
-James H. Mack (McGrath) was born in Providence, R. I.; he was the
-husband of Ada Boshell, the well-known actress.
-
-Mr. Mack died in New York, December 24, 1889; age 41 years.
-
-
-E. M. HALL was one of minstrelsy’s greatest banjoists, and a good
-comedian. His career began in 1865, doing a song and dance with
-Sharpley’s Minstrels; subsequently he did banjo duets with Harry
-Stanwood. Later he was identified with such well-known minstrel
-organizations as Emerson’s, in San Francisco; Manning’s, in Chicago;
-Carncross’, in Philadelphia; and Moore and Burgess’, in London,
-England, in 1880. In the latter city he joined Haverly’s Minstrels,
-with whom he was a star feature for several seasons. In 1875 he was
-associated with E. M. Kayne and Ned. Wambold in a minstrel venture
-bearing their names. December 30, 1903, Mr. Hall purchased a ticket for
-the matinee performance at the Iroquois Theatre in Chicago; that was
-the date of the fearful holocaust, and he has never been seen since.
-
-E. M. Hall was born in Chelsea, Me., about 1845.
-
-
-JOHN LANG, a well-known and popular tenor vocalist, who was with
-Arlington, Cotton and Kemble’s Minstrels in Chicago, died in that city,
-December 5, 1874.
-
-
-HUGH HAMALL was the fourth son of the late Arthur Hamall, and a singer
-of more than ordinary merit. Previous to his death he had been a member
-of Hamall’s Serenaders.
-
-Mr. Hamall died in Montreal, Canada, October 10, 1875.
-
-
-J. C. (“TOOTHLESS”) MURPHY, the old-time comedian and “Excelsior
-Bone Player,” was with Harry Robinson’s Minstrels in 1874, and other
-prominent organizations subsequently. Mr. Murphy was the husband of
-Marie De Von, from whom he separated in Chicago, April 6, 1877. Mr.
-Murphy is still active, and a resident of Nashville, Tenn.
-
-
-DELEHANTY AND HENGLER--These truly wonderful artists were the greatest
-in their line that the world ever knew, or ever will know, in all
-probability.
-
-William H. Delehanty made his first appearance in his native city at
-the old Green Street Theatre, at the age of 14; he did a bone solo, and
-incidentally it may be remarked that in their manipulation he ranked
-with the best in minstrelsy.
-
-About 1865 he joined Skiff and Gaylord’s Minstrels, where he did songs
-and dances with John H. Ward, under the team name of Delehanty and
-Ward; they continued with this company until November 11, 1866, when
-Mr. Delehanty severed his business relations with Ward, and just one
-week later, joined T. M. Hengler with Dingess and Green’s Minstrels at
-Champaign, Ill.; this season closed at Penn Yan, N. Y., January 7, 1867.
-
-Their first New York appearance was with Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels,
-August 12, 1867.
-
-On September 22, 1869, (Johnny) Allen, Delehanty, Hengler and
-Pettengill’s (Charley) Minstrels gave their first performance in
-Brooklyn, N. Y.
-
-Previous to this, and for several years subsequent, they had their own
-variety companies; in addition to playing the best variety theatres
-in the land; likewise were they identified with some of the foremost
-minstrel organizations; they also made a trip to Europe, playing
-England and Ireland.
-
-In the Summer of 1875, Delehanty and Hengler separated in Pittsburg.
-Mr. Delehanty then formed a partnership with James Cummings, and as
-Delehanty and Cummings they made their first appearance at the Theatre
-Comique, New York, August 23, 1875.
-
-December 4, 1876, Delehanty and Hengler, who were something more than
-business associates, again formed a partnership, reappearing at the
-Howard Athenaeum in Boston; the alliance was broken by the death of
-Delehanty.
-
-William H. Delehanty was more than a good dancer; he was a thorough
-musician, and a man of intellect. He composed most of the songs and
-dances that the team used, notably “Little Bunch of Roses,” “Apple of
-My Eye,” “I Hope I Don’t Intrude,” “Strawberries and Cream” and many
-others. Delehanty and Hengler were the original “Happy Hottentots,”
-though this act was extensively copied.
-
-T. M. Hengler came to this country at the age of three months, and at
-the age of two years his family settled in Albany, N. Y., where ten
-years later he made his first public appearance at the Green Street
-Theatre; subsequently he was with W. W. Newcomb’s Minstrels for three
-seasons; later he was with Sharpley’s Minstrels.
-
-He joined W. H. Delehanty in 1866, and continued as his partner until
-1875, after which time he did a single act, and was known as “The Merry
-Minstrel.”
-
-In December, 1876, he rejoined Delehanty, and continued with him until
-the latter’s death.
-
-When Mr. Delehanty died, Mr. Hengler seemed to lose all ambition
-for the stage; he mourned his old friend sincerely, and played
-infrequently; in the name only was he the “Merry Minstrel.”
-
-Tom Hengler was likewise the author of several songs, notably “Sweet
-Aleen” and “My Pretty Little Kittie,” also the musical sketch “Fun in
-the Kitchen.”
-
-Mr. Hengler married Miss May Fanning in 1870; they had two daughters
-who have helped to perpetuate their father’s name and fame--Flo and May
-Hengler.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- FIRST PERFORMANCE OF “I WISH I WAS IN
- DIXIE”
-
- OLD LIVERPOOL, ENG., BILL
-
-TWO RARE PROGRAMMES.]
-
-William H. Delehanty was born in Albany, N. Y., September 25, 1846; he
-died in New York City, May 13, 1880.
-
-T. M. Hengler (Slattery) was born in the town of Cashel, Ireland, in
-1844; he died in Brooklyn, N. Y., August 21, 1888.
-
-
-BILLY EMERSON (Redmond) was a unique figure in minstrelsy, for he stood
-absolutely alone in his chosen profession; never before his advent had
-his equal been seen, nor will we ever again.
-
-The acme of versatility, the personification of grace, the quintessence
-of greatness, such was Billy Emerson, who was gifted with a voice that
-an opera singer might have envied, and endowed by Nature with talents
-that are but seldom given to man.
-
-His very early days were spent in Oswego, N. Y., but soon with his
-family moved to Washington, D. C., where he made his first professional
-appearance with Joe Sweeney’s Minstrels about 1858. From 1860 to 1864
-he played chiefly in the music halls; in that year he joined Robert’s
-and Wilson’s Minstrels; also in 1864 he was with Sanderson’s Minstrels.
-
-His first prominent minstrel engagement was with Newcomb and Arlington
-in 1866. December 3, 1866, he made his initial New York appearance at
-Pastor’s Theatre. In 1867 he joined Newcomb’s Minstrels, and continued
-with them (barring a brief interval when he was with Spalding and
-Bidwell) until the organization of his own company, June, 1868, when
-Emerson, Allen and Manning’s Minstrels gave their initial performance
-in Brooklyn, N. Y.
-
-May 22, 1869, Johnny Allen withdrew, and the company continued as
-Emerson and Manning’s Minstrels until January, 1870, when the two
-partners separated. February 11, 1870, the first performance of
-Emerson’s Minstrels was given, and on November 23, same year, he made
-his bow under the astute management of Tom Maguire, in San Francisco,
-the city which to this day reveres the memory of Billy Emerson.
-
-Later the company moved to the Alhambra, and after a trip East, he
-returned and the name was changed to Emerson’s Minstrels.
-
-May 12, 1873, with his company, he sailed for Australia, opening at
-Melbourne, August 2; subsequently Mr. Emerson made two other trips to
-the Antipodes.
-
-On January 14, 1878, he took the management of the Olympic Theatre, New
-York, installing his company; the engagement was a brief one, and on
-the following February 28, in conjunction with Smith, Waldron, Lester
-and Allen, “Emerson and the Big Four Minstrels” were organized and
-traveled for several months.
-
-In Chicago, June 30, 1879, with R. M. Hooley, the famous Megatherian
-Minstrels gave their first performance, and continued for a season.
-
-Mr. Emerson was a member of Haverly’s Minstrels when they opened in
-London, England, July 31, 1880.
-
-San Francisco welcomed its idol on October 17, 1881, when Emerson’s
-Minstrels opened at the Standard Theatre, and remained until the Spring
-of 1884.
-
-Later he was with the Haverly-Cleveland Minstrels, and afterwards the
-Cleveland organization.
-
-April 2, 1888, he became an equal partner with Frank McNish and Carroll
-Johnson with McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s Minstrels, owing to the
-indisposition of Bob Slavin, who was not appearing with the company.
-August 6, 1888, he again opened in San Francisco with Emerson’s
-Minstrels.
-
-In the Summer of 1898 he was with the Wilson-Cleveland Minstrels a few
-weeks, and then played an engagement with William H. West’s Minstrels.
-Emerson’s career practically ended with this company.
-
-Let us think of him only for his neat songs and dances, of which he was
-one of the pioneers, and in which he never had an equal.
-
-Let us remember him for his “Big Sunflower,” written by another, but
-popularized by Emerson; for “Moriarity” will never be forgotten, and
-we hope that after the trials and vicissitudes of this world, he has
-“Backed the Winner” in the next.
-
-He married Miss Maggie Homer, at Covington, Ky., June 25, 1869.
-
-Billy Emerson was born in Belfast, Ireland, July 4, 1846; he died in
-Boston, Mass., February 22, 1902.
-
-
-E. M. KAYNE (Kerr), was a well known and capable interlocutor and bass
-singer.
-
-His professional career began about forty years ago when he appeared
-under his own name. April 10, 1875, in conjunction with E. M. Hall
-and Ned. Wambold, he organized a minstrel company which had a brief
-existence.
-
-Mr. Kayne was one of Haverly’s original Mastodons in 1878, and
-continued with Haverly for several seasons.
-
-For some time prior to his death, which occurred in Chicago a few years
-ago, he was employed in that city in a mercantile establishment.
-
-
-HARRY KERNELL, one of the greatest Irish comedians the variety stage
-ever knew, was an end man with Hyde and Behman’s Minstrels in 1885; and
-for many years before that. He died in New York, March, 1893.
-
-
-ED. MARBLE came from an old theatrical family of the legitimate stage.
-
-He joined Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Minstrels in 1884 as
-interlocutor, and continued with them several seasons.
-
-He subsequently wrote and produced “Tuxedo” for George Thatcher, and
-it was a pronounced success. Mr. Marble later played with Mr. Thatcher
-in vaudeville. His daughter is Mary Marble, well known in vaudeville
-circles.
-
-Ed. Marble was born in Buffalo, N. Y., September 6, 1846; he died in
-Brooklyn, N. Y., August 9, 1900.
-
-
-J. MELVILLE JANSEN entered the profession in 1874 at Fall River,
-Mass., with Gus Bruno, and as Johnson and Bruno, they continued as a
-black-face acrobatic song and dance team for five years; and they were
-rated with the best. They played the principal variety houses and some
-of the best minstrel companies, notably Sweatnam’s in 1878.
-
-Mr. Jansen separated from Mr. Bruno about 1879, and afterwards worked
-alone, and did a stump speech; he then took his own name, so as not to
-conflict with Carroll Johnson, who was at that time also known as James
-Johnson.
-
-About 1882 he formed a partnership with Sam Swain, doing a black-face
-act, and a few months later he made his appearance at Carncross’
-Minstrels in Philadelphia; he remained seven years, after which he
-joined Primrose and West’s Company, and continued with them for a
-considerable period.
-
-Mr. Jansen was a fine end man, and very clever in his imitations of a
-monkey.
-
-J. Melville Jansen was born in Quebec, Can., he died at Downingtown,
-Pa., November 23, 1896; age about 50 years.
-
- * * * * *
-
-The season of 1882-83 there were thirty-two minstrel companies on the
-road.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-BEN BROWN was one of the great jig dancers of his day, when dancers
-were plentiful and efficient.
-
-Very early he saw his name on the billboards, he said; and in 1865 he
-won a diamond studded cross containing eleven stones; the contest was
-at Bryan’s Hall, Chicago; among the competitors were “English” Tommy
-Peel, Johnny Boyd and Alex Ross; all passed away.
-
-But I’m ’way ahead of my story. His first regular appearance was with
-Billy Wray at Beller’s Music Hall, Detroit, Mich., playing “Young
-Scamp.” He was with the Mrs. Matt. Peel’s Minstrels in 1861. Leaving
-them he joined Booker and Evart’s Minstrels at Jackson, Mich., taking
-the place of the famed Dick Sliter, who had just died; this was May 21,
-1861.
-
-Subsequently he joined the DeHaven and Hutchins Show, touring Europe;
-other circus engagements were the John Robinson Company and Mike
-Lipman’s.
-
-In 1870 he joined Cal. Wagner’s Minstrels at Syracuse, under “Jack”
-Haverly’s management; three years later Haverly started his own
-organization; but Mr. Brown remained faithful to his first love; and
-subsequently he toured with his own organization.
-
-One of Mr. Brown’s feats in his earlier days was to do a jig with a
-glass full of water on his head, without disturbing the water--or his
-head; later on he danced with a plough on the same place where the
-glass was wont to rest.
-
-In 1878 he married, and a couple of years later he settled down in St.
-Louis, Mo., where he resided until his death.
-
-Ben Brown was born in Chicago, March 17, 1846; he died in St. Louis,
-Mo., June 10, 1910.
-
-
-NEIL BURGESS, who won fame and fortune as Aunt Abigail in the “County
-Fair,” was a black-face performer for several years.
-
-In 1875 he made a brief tour with Neil Burgess’ Minstrels; they closed
-at Brockville, Canada, June 14, that year.
-
-Neil Burgess was born in Boston, Mass., June 29, 1846; he died in New
-York, February 19, 1910.
-
-
-JOHN PRENDERGAST was a clever song and dance performer, and the first
-partner of John Hogan, with whom he played a season’s engagement at
-Bryant’s Minstrels in New York City.
-
-He joined Hogan in 1865. He died in Pittsburg, Pa., August 15, 1869;
-age 23 years.
-
-
-GEO. THATCHER
-
-has just rounded out forty-seven years of active theatrical life; for
-it was in September, 1863, that he made his first stage appearance,
-doing a jig (wonder if he can do it now?), and appearing in black-face;
-this was in Baltimore. Subsequently he came near being a Dutch
-comedian.
-
-[Illustration: HARRY ROBINSON’S MINSTRELS.
-
-Middle 70’s.]
-
-A year later Mr. Thatcher’s hopes of being a great song and dance
-performer received a severe jolt; Billy Emerson was the unconscious
-cause. Realizing that Emerson excelled him so far; Mr. Thatcher in his
-next engagement told gags between songs that he sang, and claims that
-then and there he originated the monologue.
-
-Mr. Thatcher says his first important engagement was at Tony Pastor’s
-in New York in 1873. On November 10, that year, he made his first
-appearance with Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels in Philadelphia,
-continuing with that organization and that of Simmons, Slocum and
-Sweatnam about four years.
-
-August 20, 1877, he made his initial appearance with Haverly’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia; in the Spring of the following year he
-played a brief engagement with the same company.
-
-Mr. Thatcher joined the San Francisco Minstrels in New York, December
-10, 1877; his last appearance there was December 11, 1880. Nine days
-later he opened in Philadelphia at the Arch Street Opera House with
-Thatcher and Ryman’s Minstrels, and continued under that trade-mark
-until the Spring of 1881. Season of 1881-1882 saw George Thatcher’s
-Minstrels at the same house. At Elmira, N. Y., August 3, 1882, the
-first performance of Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Minstrels was given;
-the organization disbanded in the Spring of 1889. The following season
-he was a feature with the Howard Athenaeum Company, doing his famous
-monologue.
-
-In 1890 Thatcher’s Minstrels took the road; the three succeeding
-seasons produced “Tuxedo,” “Africa” and “About Gotham” respectively.
-
-Then for two years with Carroll Johnson he headed Thatcher and
-Johnson’s Minstrels, terminating in the Spring of 1897.
-
-Mr. Thatcher has since been in vaudeville singly, also at various
-periods with Ed. Marble, Charley Ernest, Banks Winter, Mrs. Zenaide
-Thatcher and Will Phillips.
-
-Also did he play an engagement with Moore and Burgess’ Minstrels in
-London, England, about twenty-five years ago; his success there was
-nothing short of phenomenal.
-
-Mr. Thatcher is a natural wit, always original, and an actor as well
-as a performer, as evinced by his clever interpretations of black-face
-characters in “The County Chairman” and “Cameo Kirby.”
-
-In 1908 he was with Cohan and Harris’ Minstrels, and in 1909 the
-feature of Eddie Leonard’s Minstrels.
-
-George Thatcher was born in Baltimore, Md., July 15, 1846.
-
-
-JOHN P. HOGAN, besides being a great dancer himself, has the ability to
-impart his skill to others.
-
-Mr. Hogan began his professional career doing a song and dance with
-Stanley and Mason’s Minstrels in 1862.
-
-In 1865 he joined Raynor and Christy’s Minstrels, with Johnny
-Prendergast doing a neat song and dance, which by the way they were
-probably the _first_ team to do such an act. That same year they joined
-Bryant’s Minstrels in New York, and the following season he formed a
-partnership with Ruey Hughes at Bryant’s Minstrels. In 1867 they were
-with Griffin and Christy’s Minstrels, located in New York.
-
-Their next minstrel engagement was with Bryant’s in 1868, also in the
-metropolis.
-
-In 1869 the pair joined Buckley’s Serenaders, and the following year
-they were with Billy Manning’s Minstrels, located in Chicago, where in
-the Spring of 1871, Hogan and Hughes severed their business relations,
-owing to the illness of the latter.
-
-In May, 1871, Mr. Hogan joined the Hooley Minstrels in Chicago for a
-supplemental traveling season; with this company he did a specialty
-with J. K. Campbell.
-
-Subsequently with Jimmy Cummings, he played an engagement at Moran and
-Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, closing there about February 1,
-1872, after which in a variety theatre in the same city he did “Let Me
-Be” with Harry Kernell, who afterward gained fame as an Irish comedian.
-
-Hogan and Mudge’s Minstrels toured in 1872, likewise Hogan and Ella
-Chapman played in the principal variety houses.
-
-In 1874 Mr. Hogan returned to Bryant’s Minstrels, and continued there
-until the death of Dan Bryant, April 10, 1875. A few months later
-he joined hands with Charley Lord, and as Hogan and Lord played an
-engagement with Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels.
-
-John Hogan was born in Montreal, Canada, March 14, 1847.
-
-
-ARTHUR MORELAND. Instances of black-face performers going from the
-minstrel to the dramatic stage are of very frequent occurrence, but
-when a legitimate performer goes into minstrelsy, we are inclined to
-rub our eyes, sit up and take notice.
-
-Such was the case of the subject of this sketch, whose professional
-debut was made in Troy, N. Y., at the Griswold Opera House, April
-14, 1865, in the “Lady of Lyons”; this was not an animal show, as
-unthinking persons might surmise.
-
-Mr. Moreland next went to London, England, where for five months,
-commencing in 1865, he played a stock engagement at the Sadler’s Wells
-Theatre. Returning to the United States extended engagements followed
-at St. Louis, New Orleans, Louisville, Cincinnati and New York City. In
-1872 he assumed the management of Johnny Thompson, in “On Hand.”
-
-Mr. Moreland’s next move was to the Olympic Theatre, in Brooklyn, N.
-Y., 1873; it was here that Mr. Moreland first became a “corker,” though
-he had been a corking good fellow fully a quarter of a century prior to
-that date--and ever since.
-
-His first minstrel engagement was with Hooley in 1876; the following
-year he was with Maguire’s Company in San Francisco, and later with
-Emerson’s Minstrels, same city. In 1880 Mr. Moreland became a member of
-the San Francisco Minstrels in New York City, where he remained four
-years.
-
-In 1884-85 he did “nigger acts” with Dan Collyer; the following season
-he was a member of Harrigan’s Company in New York City. Mr. Moreland
-was one of the members of Lew Dockstader’s permanent minstrel company
-in New York, commencing September 17, 1886, and continuing with them
-during the existence as an organization, terminating in 1889.
-
-As Col. Risener, in “Blue Jeans,” appearing in white-face, season of
-1891-92, Mr. Moreland once more showed his versatility.
-
-Mr. Moreland has long been recognized as the premier interlocutor in
-minstrelsy, and the legitimate successor of Wm. H. Bernard, who retired
-in 1872.
-
-Arthur Moreland was born in New York City, November 12, 1847.
-
-
-GEORGE W. POWERS ran away from home in 1861; there was really no
-necessity for this, as the home was securely fastened. However, that’s
-not the argument. He boarded the steamboat “Charley Bowers,” did
-George Powers, and for several hours continued as a passenger, finally
-landing at Cairo, Ill., where he immediately sought out the manager,
-and was at once engaged to do a jig, in black-face; subsequently he
-was apprenticed to old Frank Howard, with whom he did “nigger acts” in
-the variety houses of St. Louis, Milwaukee, Chicago, Louisville and
-Memphis; at the latter place he appeared in Morningstar’s Varieties; it
-is now 1863, and all is well.
-
-Mr. Powers next joined Castello’s Circus, and late in 1863 made his
-first appearance in minstrelsy; the honor belongs to the Weed and
-Morris Company.
-
-The following year he was with LaRue’s Minstrels; the next burnt-cork
-aggregation to claim him was the Morris Bros. in Boston.
-
-September 5, 1870, with Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, Johnson and
-Powers made their first appearance as a team, doing acrobatic songs
-and dances and high kicking--this man Johnson was Carroll Johnson, the
-present Beau Brummell of minstrelsy, but at that time known as James
-Johnson; for thirteen years did this duo do dances and other doings.
-
-January 2, 1871, they opened with Hooley’s Minstrels in Chicago, at the
-first performance of that company in the Big Lake City.
-
-In the Summer of 1872 Mr. Powers and his partner joined the famous
-San Francisco Minstrels in New York, and continued with them until
-1882, barring the season of 1874-75, which was spent in Philadelphia
-with Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels. In the Fall of 1882 they became
-members of Courtright and Hawkins’ Minstrels, also in Philadelphia,
-and the following January went to San Francisco, where they opened
-with Billy Emerson’s Minstrels on the 22d; they remained about three
-months and then joined Haverly’s Minstrels, and in June, 1883, the long
-partnership of Johnson and Powers was dissolved.
-
-Mr. Powers subsequently gave most of his attention to the banjo,
-on which instrument in the execution of which he has no rival in
-minstrelsy; his rendition of “Home, Sweet Home,” with variations, is
-alone worth going miles to hear.
-
-From 1885 to 1893 Mr. Powers appeared successfully with McNish, Johnson
-and Slavin’s; Thatcher, Primrose and West’s; Lew Dockstader’s, and
-Thatcher and Johnson’s Minstrels.
-
-Early in 1910 he married the widow of the late John W. Thompson, of
-Dallas, Texas.
-
-George W. Powers was born in Louisville, Ky., April 3, 1847.
-
-
-LUKE SCHOOLCRAFT was naturally a great performer; born in the South
-amidst environments that gave him opportunities for noticing the
-peculiarities and idiosyncrasies of the negro character, he imbibed
-them without being aware of so doing.
-
-At the age of five he made his first appearance, playing child parts;
-two years later he “blacked up” for the first time, in the play of
-“Masked Faces.”
-
-[Illustration:
-
- FRANK HOWARD
-
- BANKS WINTER
-
- MANUEL ROMAIN
-
- GEO. GALE
-
- RICHARD J. JOSE
-
- FRANK MORRELL
-
-SIX SINGERS.]
-
-Late in the 60’s at Memphis, Tenn., a butcher with the unminstrel name
-of Wiets, tiring of dispensing steaks, chops and sundry animal flesh
-to a ravenous clientele, and with visions of perhaps becoming a future
-burnt cork impressario, he organized the Great Western Opera Bouffe
-Company; a painfully short time later it disorganized itself.
-
-It is an odd fact that this gifted performer, whom nature endowed with
-the ability to portray so faithfully the Southern “darky,” aspired to
-be a Dutch comedian: indeed, he appeared as such intermittently for
-several years in the variety houses.
-
-July 29, 1872, at Cincinnati, he made his first appearance with
-Newcomb’s Minstrels, sitting on the end and doing an act in the olio
-with Andy McKee and E. M. Hall; a few weeks later he began a brief
-engagement with Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels in Philadelphia,
-commencing August 18.
-
-Mr. Schoolcraft formed a partnership with George H. Coes, in 1874,
-and on August 31 they opened with Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels in
-Chicago. They played various minstrel and variety engagements until
-April 2, 1877, when Schoolcraft and Coes’ Minstrels gave their first
-performance; the tour was of short duration. January 14, 1878, the team
-joined Emerson’s Minstrels at the Olympic Theatre in New York, and in
-the Summer of the following year they opened with Hooley and Emerson’s
-Megatherian Minstrels.
-
-Season of 1881-82 they were with Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s
-Company; a year later they joined the Barlow, Wilson & Co.’s Minstrels,
-and on September 3, 1883, they opened with the San Francisco Minstrels
-in New York City.
-
-Schoolcraft and Coes dissolved partnership in 1889, and in the Spring
-of that year Mr. Schoolcraft joined Dockstader’s permanent minstrel
-company in New York City; this was his last minstrel engagement.
-
-About a year later he became a member of the famous “City Directory”
-Company, under the management of John Russell, and continued with that
-organization until the time of his death.
-
-Beyond all dispute Luke Schoolcraft ranked high with the great
-black-face performers of the land; he is one of the immortals of
-minstrelsy. While he was great in everything he ever did, his “Mrs.
-Dittimus’ Party” was a gem of purest ray serene.
-
-Luke Schoolcraft was born in New Orleans, La., November 14, 1847; he
-died in Cincinnati, Ohio, March 10, 1893.
-
-
-BOBBY NEWCOMB (Robert Hughes) stood alone in his particular line in
-minstrelsy, inasmuch as he wrote all the songs and dances he executed
-so admirably, as well as producing for many other performers, notably
-the “Big Sunflower” for Billy Emerson, which did so much to establish
-the popularity of that great artist.
-
-The earliest record of Newcomb’s professional appearance was at Quebec,
-Canada, where on May 3, 1856, he appeared as Master Hughes with
-Perham’s Great Ethiopian Minstrel Opera and Burlesque Troupe.
-
-The following year he was with Buckley’s Serenaders in New York; it
-was here that he attracted the attention of W. W. Newcomb, who, with
-Hy. Rumsey was about to organize Rumsey and Newcomb’s Minstrels; and
-Bobby Newcomb became a member, and continued with them for about five
-years; between seasons accepting other engagements with Geo. Christy’s
-(Hooley) Minstrels, in June, 1859, and a year later with Minor’s
-Ethiopian Minstrels. Early in 1861 he went to England with Rumsey and
-Newcomb, subsequently to Germany and back to England, where the company
-disbanded.
-
-Mr. Newcomb joined Wood’s Minstrels in New York, March 9, 1863, as
-“Little Bobby,” the ladies’ pet. In 1860 he was billed as Master Robert
-Langlois.
-
-In the Fall of 1863 he joined Christy’s Minstrels in New York; in 1865
-he was with Raynor’s “Christy’s.”
-
-December 9, 1869, he made his re-appearance with the San Francisco
-Minstrels in New York; the following year he was a member of Carncross
-and Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia. It was with the latter company
-he first appeared as an end man, in Pittsburgh, Pa., May 15, 1871.
-
-August 28, 1871, he rejoined the San Francisco Minstrels in New York
-for the season; subsequently he was with Arlington, Cotton and Kemble’s
-Minstrels in Chicago for a lengthy engagement.
-
-He joined Maguire’s Minstrels in San Francisco, April 18, 1874; the
-following year he returned to Carncross and Dixey.
-
-Mr. Newcomb played Topsy in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” in 1876.
-
-In 1877 he was with Haverly, and in 1881 played an engagement with
-Moore and Burgess’ Minstrels in London, England.
-
-In 1883 he was again with Haverly. About 1885, with his wife and three
-talented daughters, he organized the Newcomb Family, and as such he
-traveled until his death.
-
-In New York, September 28, 1867, he married Miss Mary Blake, a famous
-danseuse of that time. Blanche Newcomb, in private life, Mrs. John
-Cain, a clever soubrette, is his daughter.
-
-Bobby Newcomb was born November 13, 1847; he died at Tacoma, Wash.,
-June 1, 1888.
-
-
-EDDIE FOX is known wherever minstrelsy is spoken.
-
-Mr. Fox’s career began at the tender age of five years, and continued
-up until about 1897, when he “laid down the fiddle and the bow”--not
-because “there was no more work for poor Uncle Ned”--no, indeedy--for
-Mr. Fox refuses to grow old, and he could have work aplenty if he so
-desired.
-
-Newcomb and Arlington’s Minstrels engaged him about 1867; subsequently
-he was with Newcomb’s Minstrels.
-
-When Simmons and Slocum opened their minstrel house in Philadelphia
-in 1870, Eddie Fox was leader, and remained there several seasons.
-Likewise was he identified with Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s
-Minstrels at their inception in 1877, and continued with them during
-their existence as an organization, terminating in June, 1882.
-
-Other prominent minstrel engagements were Barlow, Wilson Company,
-George Wilson’s, Cleveland’s, and his last--Al. G. Field’s.
-
-Mr. Fox composed some of the most popular music in minstrelsy, notably
-the “Big Sunflower,” immortalized by Billy Emerson; “Kaiser, Don’t You
-Want to Buy a Dog?” for Gus Williams; “Noreen Moreen,” “Goodbye, Liza
-Jane,” “Carry the News to Mary” and scores of others.
-
-As a jig and reel player he is without a peer.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- DAVE MONTGOMERY
-
- FRED STONE
-
- PERCY G. WILLIAMS
-
- RAYMOND HITCHCOCK
-
- JOE. CAWTHORNE
-
- CORSE PAYTON
-
- FRED. BAILEY
-
- RALPH AUSTIN
-
- CHAUNCEY OLCOTT
-
- RICHARD CARLE
-
- BILLY JEROME
-
- JAS. J. CORBETT
-
- MACLYN ARBUCKLE
-
- JOHN L. SULLIVAN
-
- BILLY S. CLIFFORD
-
- NAT. GOODWIN
-
- JERRY COHAN
-
- DE WOLF HOPPER
-
- GEO. M. COHAN
-
- NAT. WILLS
-
- JOHN C. RICE
-
- BARNEY GILMORE
-
- EDDIE FOY
-
- BERT. LESLIE
-
- SAM BERNARD
-
- WM. HARRIS
-
- CHAS. FROHMAN
-
- DAN. FROHMAN
-
- JOHN E. KELLERD
-
- HENRY E. DIXEY
-
- OTIS SKINNER
-
- BILLY B. VAN
-
- WILTON LACKAYE
-
- WILLIE COLLIER
-
- WM. H. CRANE
-
- “HAP.” WARD
-
- HARRY VOKES
-
- ANDREW MACK
-
- FRANCIS WILSON
-
- HARRY BULGER
-
- JAS. T. POWERS
-
- GEO. BEBAN
-
- JEFF D’ANGELIS
-
- DENMAN THOMPSON
-
- DAVID BELASCO
-
- JOE. WEBER
-
- LEW. FIELDS
-
- CHAS. K. HARRIS
-
- CHAS. HORWITZ
-
- FRED V. BOWERS
-
-THE “FAMOUS 50”; THEY ALL “BLACKED UP,” OR WERE ASSOCIATED WITH
-MINSTRELSY.]
-
-Mr. Fox likewise enjoys the distinction of having been always the
-highest salaried “leader” in minstrelsy.
-
-Eddie Fox was born in Glens Falls, N. Y., October 28, 1848; a letter
-addressed care of any minstrel show playing Philadelphia will always
-reach him.
-
-
-THOMAS B. DIXON. The name of Tom Dixon will go down in the annals of
-minstrelsy for his magnificent rendition of the old ballad “Sally in
-Our Alley.”
-
-Mr. Dixon joined Lew Benedict’s Minstrels in July, 1872, and again
-at Newark, N. J., September 21, 1876. In 1878 he was with Simmons
-and Slocum’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, and that same year became a
-member of the original Haverly’s Mastodons in Chicago, opening October
-21, 1878. He went to London, England, with that company, opening at
-“Her Majesty’s” Theatre, July 31, 1880; the following year he was
-with Emerson in San Francisco; he was likewise identified with other
-prominent organizations. Mr. Dixon was one of the original California
-Quartette.
-
-Thos. B. Dixon was born in 1847; he died in Nashua, N. H., November 25,
-1890.
-
-
-LEW. SPENCER (James Erhardt), well known as a black-face performer,
-began his professional career in his native city about 1865 as a Dutch
-comedian. He was with Duprez and Benedict’s Minstrels about 1869,
-and subsequently with the companies of Cal. Wagner; Barlow, Wilson;
-Haverly; Al. G. Fields and others as prominent.
-
-He was born in Baltimore, Md.; he died in Chicago, Ill., December 7,
-1904; age 56 years.
-
-
-FRANK DUMONT is one of the most intellectual men in minstrelsy;
-originally a ballad singer, he has been connected with every branch of
-the black-face profession.
-
-In the Fall of 1862, as Master Dumont, he was with Arlington and
-Donniker’s Minstrels, subsequently he was associated with John Cross
-and Tom Fish with Cross, Fish and Dumont’s Minstrels; this was in 1866.
-
-The following year he was with Ned Davis’ Minstrels; early in 1869 he
-was with Dashington and Kling’s Minstrels and that same year he joined
-Duprez and Benedict’s Minstrels, and continued with them about eleven
-years.
-
-Subsequently Mr. Dumont was with Carncross in Philadelphia, the San
-Francisco Minstrels in New York, and with Lew Dockstader’s Company.
-While with Sweatnam’s Minstrels, August 22, 1879, he sang “The Old
-Family Table.”
-
-Mr. Dumont is the author of innumerable songs, sketches and plays,
-and produced all the shows at the Eleventh Street Opera House,
-Philadelphia, since the inception of Dumont’s Minstrels there January
-27, 1896.
-
-Frank Dumont was born in Utica, N. Y., January 25, 1848.
-
-
-WILL G. MACK, once of the team of Mack and O’Day, had been in the
-profession about twenty-five years, and with Al G. Fields’, Barlow
-Bros., and other minstrel companies prior to his death, November 12,
-1897.
-
-
-CHARLES HEYWOOD (Frank Haffner), who has an international reputation
-in minstrelsy as a female impersonator, possesses a remarkably fine
-cultivated voice, which long experience has taught him to use to the
-best advantage.
-
-Mr. Heywood made his debut with an amateur minstrel company in Newark,
-N. J., in 1867, at the famous old Library Hall.
-
-In January, 1868, he appeared professionally in New York with Kelly and
-Leon’s Minstrels.
-
-Later he was identified with Buckley’s, Duprez and Benedict;
-Emerson’s; Simmons and Slocum’s; Haverly’s, and several other notable
-organizations.
-
-In 1881 he was with Thatcher and Ryman’s Minstrels in Philadelphia,
-and the following year with Clark and Ryman’s Minstrels he went to
-Australia--with his pigeons; for Heywood wouldn’t travel without his
-pigeons, and the pigeons wouldn’t travel without Heywood; so there you
-are.
-
-After the pigeon engagement, which lasted sixty weeks, Mr. Heywood
-joined Haverly’s Mastodons in London, in 1884; again using the pigeons,
-100 strong, as a feature of his act.
-
-After several notable engagements in the music halls on the Continent,
-he returned to this country, and subsequently built a theatre in
-Newark, N. J. As a builder Mr. Heywood admits he wasn’t a success, but
-as a hustler he is second to none. And then he opened a conservatory,
-where several who since achieved success in their profession received
-their tuition. Of late years Mr. Heywood’s talents have been devoted
-chiefly to concert work.
-
-Charles Heywood was born in New York City, October 24, 1848.
-
-
-BARRY MAXWELL (Maxey) has been famous for many years for his
-delineation of the aged “darky,” of which he is a master.
-
-His stage career began in his native city as a member of the Crescent
-City Serenaders, in which he was one of the end men.
-
-With Ed Gibson, as Gibson and Maxwell, he joined Spalding and
-Manning’s Minstrels; other minstrel organizations he was identified
-with were Hooley’s; Haverly’s; Emerson and Reed’s, in San Francisco;
-Dockstader’s, in New York, from 1886 to 1889, and Schoolcraft and
-Maxwell’s Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Maxwell was also of the team of Maxwell and Carroll.
-
-For ten years he appeared successfully with the Chas. H. Hoyt shows,
-where he was called upon to play both white and black face characters,
-which he did with equal facility.
-
-His portrayal of the black-face character of Othello, in the “Texas
-Steer,” and Sassafras Livingstone, in the “County Chairman,” received
-the highest encomiums from press and public.
-
-Barry Maxwell was born in New Orleans, La., October 29, 1848.
-
-
-QUILTER and GOLDRICH ranked with the best song and dance teams of
-minstrelsy.
-
-They made their first appearance in 1869 at Pittsburgh, Pa., with Harry
-Williams.
-
-During their partnership they played practically every first-class
-variety house in the country, as well as many of the principal minstrel
-companies, including Harry Robinson’s, Neil Bryant’s, and Kelly and
-Leon’s.
-
-July 19, 1874, they sailed for England, where on August 10 they made
-their first appearance in Liverpool with Sam Hague’s Minstrels;
-subsequently going to Moore and Burgess’ Minstrels in London, in each
-city meeting with pronounced success.
-
-They played an extended engagement with Harrigan and Hart’s Company in
-New York, and after the dissolution of that famous organization, June
-13, 1885, they cast their fortunes with Edward Harrigan.
-
-Mr. Goldrich’s demise occurred during this period, since when Mr.
-Quilter has appeared mostly in dramatic and musical productions. Some
-of the principal black-face parts portrayed were in “Princess Bonnie”
-and the “Traveling Salesman.”
-
-Richard (“Dick”) Quilter was born in the County Kerry, Ireland, August
-16, 1848.
-
-Peter Goldrich (MacGoldrick) was born in Trenton, N. J., he died in New
-York City, June 4, 1891; age 42 years.
-
-
-CHEEVERS and KENNEDY, originally known as the “Buffalo Boys,” a title
-given to them by Dan Bryant, when as the “infant wonders” they made
-their first appearance in New York, with Bryant’s Minstrels, doing a
-double clog reel April 25, 1864.
-
-The following year they went to Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia, where they remained until 1871; part of this time they
-were billed as Masters Joseph and Eddie. August 28, 1871, they opened
-with the San Francisco Minstrels in New York for the season; that same
-week they, in conjunction with Charley Gibbons and Bobby Newcomb,
-formed a dancing quartette, which was then considered quite a novelty.
-
-The following year they returned to Philadelphia as members of Frank
-Moran’s Minstrels. July 2, 1874, they sailed for England, opening at
-the London Pavilion July 19. Subsequently an engagement of fourteen
-months at the Cambridge, same city, followed.
-
-Their success at this house was so pronounced that an extra gallery had
-to be built to accommodate the patrons of that popular establishment.
-Equally successful engagements in Dublin and Paris followed. It will be
-readily seen that these boys were “capital” performers.
-
-Returning to the United States they rejoined Carncross and Dixey in
-Philadelphia.
-
-Early in 1877 they began a brief engagement with Emerson’s Minstrels
-in San Francisco, and in the Spring of that year sailed for Australia,
-where they remained about four years.
-
-A brief separation followed, during which time Mr. Cheevers worked
-alone; they subsequently came together again, playing successful
-engagements in the music halls.
-
-August 27, 1886, they arrived in New York City; they played several
-engagements in the United States, subsequently returning to England;
-later their business relations were again severed; Mr. Cheevers
-assuming the management of the Phoenix Music Hall, Dover, England, and
-some years later entering the hotel business.
-
-After a separation of about nine years, in the Fall of 1904 they once
-more reunited and for two or three years renewed former triumphs.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- BURTON STANLEY
-
- GEO. WILKES
-
- “RICARDO”
-
- GUS. MILLS
-
- HARRY LANSING
-
- STUART
-
- JAMES MACK
-
- HARRY CONSTANTINE
-
- ARTHUR DOTY
-
-FAMED FAVORITES WHO FEATURED FEMININE FANCIES.]
-
-Following their final separation, Mr. Cheevers returned to the United
-States, where he has mostly remained.
-
-Mr. Kennedy is a boniface in England.
-
-Cheevers and Kennedy enjoyed a well-merited reputation for originality;
-their quick character changes and diversified dancing gave them a
-standing in their profession that any performer might envy.
-
-Joseph E. Cheevers was born in Buffalo, N. Y., May 25, 1848.
-
-Edw. J. Kennedy was born in Buffalo, N. Y., July 10, 1844.
-
-
-GUS BRUNO made his first appearance professionally in his native city
-with Rentz’s Circus, in 1866, doing a hurdle act.
-
-He came to the United States a few years later, and as the Limber Boy
-he played an engagement at Woodward’s Garden in San Francisco.
-
-Charley Armstrong was his first partner; next came Clark and Bruno,
-and then Johnson and Bruno, who for five years did one of the greatest
-black-face acts in the country, playing the principal variety houses
-and minstrel organizations.
-
-Mr. Bruno subsequently allied himself with the foremost farcical
-organizations; he is now playing vaudeville.
-
-He is probably the best dialectician in America, and was the first to
-give the Swedish and Low Dutch dialects on the stage.
-
-Gus Bruno was born in Copenhagen, Denmark, May 4, 1848.
-
-
-RUEY HUGHES (James Quigg) was a fine dancer and a good general
-performer.
-
-He appeared at the Green Street Theatre in Albany, N. Y., as early as
-1863. The following year he was with A. P. Ball’s American Coliseum
-Circus.
-
-In 1866 he formed a partnership with John Hogan, and as Hogan and
-Hughes they did neat songs and dances, and quickly made reputations for
-themselves.
-
-Early in 1867 Mr. Hughes and his partner joined Griffin and Christy’s
-Minstrels in New York. Subsequently they appeared successfully with
-Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y., and with Bryant’s, also Kelly
-and Leon’s in New York. In 1869, with Mr. Hogan, he joined Buckley’s
-Serenaders for the season.
-
-In 1870 Mr. Hughes began an engagement with Manning’s Minstrels in
-Chicago, where a few months later he was taken sick and finally forced
-to separate from Mr. Hogan.
-
-The death of Mr. Hughes on the threshold of manhood robbed minstrelsy
-of one of its most brilliant luminaries.
-
-Ruey Hughes was born in New York City; he died there, November 10,
-1871; age 23 years.
-
-
-SAGE RICHARDSON began his professional career as a member of the
-famous Holman troupe in 1864, at Toronto, Canada. His first minstrel
-engagement was with Cool Burgess’, later appearing with LaRue’s
-Minstrels.
-
-Subsequently he joined hands with his brother John, and they played the
-variety houses until 1880, when he doubled with Charley Young, later
-playing an engagement with Cal. Wagner’s Minstrels; at the end of the
-season Mr. Richardson returned to California, and afterward reappeared
-in variety houses with his brother.
-
-Sage Richardson was born in New York City: he died in San Francisco,
-March 8, 1883; age about 35 years.
-
-
-I. W. BAIRD, who was proprietor and manager of the organization that
-bore his name for several seasons, commenced his professional career as
-a trick bicycle rider in 1866. In 1867 he joined Johnson’s Circus at
-Galesburg, Ill., and in 1872 was part proprietor of Smith and Baird’s
-Circus; in 1874 he controlled the privileges of the Great Eastern 6
-Tent Shows.
-
-In 1875 he organized the Baird-Howell Show, and the following year
-the first performance of I. W. Baird’s Mammoth Minstrels was given,
-and continued as an organization until 1889; Mr. Baird subsequently
-engaging in the real estate business in Portland, Ore.
-
-I. W. Baird was born in Salem, Ohio; he died in Portland, Ore., January
-2, 1908.
-
-
-JERRY COHAN. It will be a surprise to most of the present generation
-to know that the daddy of the famous George M. Cohan ever appeared in
-black-face, but he did, and as a general dancer he ranked with the
-best; Mr. Cohan also could do things with the tambourine.
-
-His first minstrel engagement was with Campbell and Huntley’s Minstrels
-as late (or early) as May, 1868. He joined Kelly and Leon’s Associated
-Artists in Baltimore, in the Summer of 1869; other engagements of a
-“dark” nature were Sam Sharpley’s and LaRue’s.
-
-His last offense was the California (Joe Norcross’) Minstrels, which he
-joined at Springfield, Mass., December 5, 1879.
-
-Jerry Cohan was born in Boston, Mass., January 31, 1848.
-
-
-W. W. BARBOUR, well and favorably known as one of the prominent
-“leaders” of minstrelsy, began with Cal. Wagner’s Minstrels in the
-70’s; subsequently he joined Haverly, and was with him for twelve
-years. Later he was a member of Cleveland’s Minstrels for two years,
-and with Geo. Wilson for three years.
-
-He was also leader at Sam Jack’s Theatre in Chicago, and Frank Hall’s
-Casino in the same city.
-
-His last engagement was at the Grand Opera House, New York.
-
-W. W. Barbour died in Brooklyn, N. Y., September 5, 1899; age 51 years.
-
-
-BILLY COURTRIGHT (Albert Courtright), the original “Flewy Flewy,” and
-one of the most versatile performers on the minstrel stage, began his
-professional career more than forty years ago. He was part owner of
-Blaisdell Bros. and Courtright’s Minstrels, who gave their initial
-performance at Rock Island, Ill., March 8, 1871.
-
-Mr. Courtright subsequently joined John D. Gilbert in a black-face
-act called “Big and Little,” of which they were the originals; their
-first appearance in New York was at Charley White’s October 12, 1872.
-In November, 1873, Mr. Courtright joined Haverly’s Minstrels, and a
-few months later became a member of Arlington, Cotton and Kemble’s
-Minstrels in Chicago. Mr. Courtright was with Kelly and Leon’s
-Minstrels in 1877, and the following year went to Australia with them.
-
-He subsequently rejoined Haverly’s. In the Fall of 1882, Courtright and
-Hawkin’s Minstrels opened in Philadelphia, as a permanent company. Mr.
-Courtright has been giving white face specialties in vaudeville for
-several years.
-
-Billy Courtright was born in New Milford, Ill., March 10, 1848.
-
-
-ROWLAND H. MAYLAND was well known as a flute soloist with many of the
-best minstrel organizations.
-
-His first professional engagement was at Mrs. John Wood’s Theatre,
-New York, in 1864. Subsequently he joined M. C. Campbell’s Minstrels,
-later appearing with Hooley’s in Brooklyn, N. Y.; Buckley’s; Kelly and
-Leon’s; Geo. Christy’s, and Seaver’s Minstrel Hall, Brooklyn, N. Y.
-
-He last appeared professionally with Neil Bryant’s Minstrels about
-thirty years ago.
-
-Rowland H. Mayland was born in New York, February 16, 1848.
-
-
-LEW PARKER, the present manager of the Crescent Theatre in Brooklyn, N.
-Y., 1910, was an acrobat in 1860. Doesn’t time fly?
-
-This 1860 “affair” was with the Myers and Madigan Circus, which, Mr.
-Parker declares, was the first railroad show in America.
-
-About 1863 he joined Skiff’s Minstrels; subsequently Mr. Parker was
-with the Oriental Minstrels; as might be surmised, this was a “turkey”
-show.
-
-A tour of South America with Pickering’s Minstrels followed.
-
-Other black face organizations that were graced by the presence of Mr.
-Parker were Johnny Thompson’s Minstrels, and the California Minstrels;
-with the latter he sat on the end opposite “Kerry Gow” Joe Murphy.
-
-The team of Lew and Pauline Parker played the variety houses from 1873
-to 1885.
-
-About twenty-five years ago Mr. Parker became general agent for the
-Buffalo Bill Wild West Show, in which capacity he traveled for several
-seasons.
-
-Lew Parker was born in Savannah, Ga., May 12, 1849.
-
-
-WALTERS and MORTON formed a partnership at East Saginaw, Mich.,
-where they first performed August 12, 1872. As an acrobatic song and
-dance team they were ranked with the best. They played engagements
-with Arlington, Cotton and Kemble’s Minstrels in Chicago in 1874;
-subsequently with Neil Bryant’s Company.
-
-Early in 1876 they were with Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels, where they
-continued about two years. In the Summer of 1876 they separated
-briefly, Mr. Walters joining Andy McKee August 28, that year, for a few
-weeks. Subsequently they came together, and continued until July 25,
-1877, when they last performed jointly in Buffalo, N. Y.
-
-Mr. Walters’ first appearance were with circuses; in 1864 he joined
-Rumsey’s Minstrels.
-
-After separating from Mr. Morton he formed a partnership with Mark
-Hughes, making his last appearance with him at Cincinnati September 15,
-1877. J. W. Morton formed a partnership with Billy Ashcroft about 1870,
-doing black-face song and dances for about one year. August 11, 1876,
-he became one of the Big Four, and continued as such about five years,
-part of which the Big Four Minstrels toured. Later, Mr. Morton had his
-own organization.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- HARRY WOODSON
-
- ARCHIE WHITE
-
- CARROLL JOHNSON
-
-NO DEARTH OF “DARKYS” HERE.]
-
-He subsequently went to England and Australia, and formed a partnership
-with Tom Sadler. In 1890 he was conducting a hotel in New Zealand.
-
-Charley Walters was born in Cardiff, Wales, May 17, 1849; he died in
-New York City January 31, 1878.
-
-J. W. Morton (Sheppard) died March 30, 1907.
-
-
-WELCH and RICE were two of the best exponents of neat songs and dances
-in minstrelsy.
-
-About 1863 they attracted the attention of Jake Budd, who adopted them
-professionally, and named them Johnny and Willie Budd, the “Empire
-Boys.”
-
-They had appeared before the public individually prior to the above
-event, each with Sanford’s Minstrels in Harrisburg, Pa.; Johnny Rice
-was with Charley Petrie before joining Welch.
-
-With Jake Budd they played several seasons with Skiff and Gaylord’s
-Minstrels, and Buckley’s Serenaders.
-
-They then left Budd, and opened with Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia, March 6, 1871, and continued intermittently with that
-company about six years.
-
-They were with Haverly’s Minstrels in the Spring of 1878, and in the
-Fall of that year they were members of the original Mastodons, with
-whom they went to London in 1880, where they separated.
-
-Mr. Welch embarked in the hotel business in England for awhile, but
-later returned to the United States, and assumed the management of
-Callender’s Minstrels for the proprietors, Charles and Gustave Frohman.
-
-Mr. Welch’s last engagement was with Dockstader’s Minstrels in New
-York, April 29, 1887.
-
-He was the author of several musical sketches, and was an intellectual
-performer.
-
-Johnny Rice played variety and minstrel engagements after separating
-from Welch.
-
-Billy Welch was born at sea, December 20, 1849; he died in New York
-City, May 7, 1887.
-
-John Cornelius Rice was born in Harrisburg, Pa., November 6, 1852; he
-died in Chicago, November 23, 1887.
-
-
-MASTER TOMMY (Thomas Henry Ryan) gave promise of attaining a high
-position in his chosen profession.
-
-As a dancer and comedian he had already achieved prominence.
-
-He died in New York, June 22, 1869; age 20 years.
-
-
-GEORGE W. WOODS, famous as a great bone player with Haverly, also the
-San Francisco Minstrels, and who in 1892 did an act with J. H. Mack
-with the Muldoon Specialty Company, died in New York City, June 19,
-1898; age 50 years; he was born in England.
-
- * * * * *
-
-BILLY WEST, BILLY EMERSON and BILLY RICE, minstrelsy’s three great
-“Billy’s,” died within fourteen days--exactly one week apart in 1902.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-CHARLES F. LORRAINE made his first appearance on the stage in pantomime
-at the Brittania Theatre, London, England, in 1855, as a child, and
-while still a child gave a season of popular concerts at the Music
-Hall, Leeds, England.
-
-His minstrel career began in 1867 as a member of Charles Christie’s
-Minstrels; next season he piloted his own troupe; other organizations
-were the Livermore Bros. Minstrels, where he remained some time;
-subsequent minstrel engagements were with Matthews Bros., and Sam
-Hague’s, all in England.
-
-In 1882, Thatcher, Primrose and West; then Carpenter and Lorraine’s
-Minstrels; Barlow and Wilson; Barlow, Wilson and Rankin’s; Emerson’s;
-Cleveland, and Haverly’s.
-
-Mr. Lorraine, in addition to being a vocalist, was an interlocutor of
-merit.
-
-He married Miss St. George Hussey, who died in Detroit, Mich., October
-9, 1910.
-
-Charles F. Lorraine was born December 11, 1849.
-
-
-GEORGE T. CLAPHAM, brother of Harry J. Clapham, joined Haverly’s
-Minstrels in 1875 as advance agent, remaining about one year;
-subsequently going to Haverly’s Adelphi Theatre in Chicago as
-advertising agent, where another year was spent.
-
-In the early 80’s he assumed management of Thatcher, Primrose and
-West’s Minstrels, remaining in that capacity five years.
-
-Later he was with Hoyt & Thomas, one season, and part of another
-was with H. R. Jacobs in Albany. After this he was agent for Lew
-Dockstader’s (road) Minstrels about three seasons; then with Archie
-Boyd.
-
-Mr. Clapham was with J. H. Haverly’s Minstrels on their last tour,
-about 12 years ago.
-
-George T. Clapham was born in Albany, N. Y., April, 1849.
-
-
-JOSEPH H. MACK was well known as a prominent minstrel agent and manager
-of such organizations as Kelly and Leon’s, Emerson’s California
-Minstrels and Hart, Ryman and Barney’s Minstrels, also manager of the
-Cleveland Baseball Club in 1880.
-
-Joseph H. Mack was born in Buffalo, N. Y., May 10, 1849; he died at
-Hewitt, N. J., November 14, 1892.
-
-
-HARRY FISHER, famous in the old Harrigan and Hart days for his unique
-German characterizations, played Uncle Tom in the latter’s “cabin,” in
-New York at the Olympic Theatre, in April, 1878.
-
-Harry Fisher was born in New York City, July 21, 1849, and doesn’t care
-who knows it.
-
-
-CHARLES DOCKSTADER was one of the most prolific producers in
-minstrelsy. He was something besides being a good song and dance
-performer, and was the author of many sketches, acts and songs.
-
-His first appearance on the stage was in his native city as the child
-in “Pizarro,” with Edwin Forrest; his debut as a minstrel was also made
-in Cleveland some years later.
-
-In September, 1878, he formed a partnership with Lew Clapp, opening in
-Jersey City, where they remained several weeks at a variety theatre as
-the Dockstader Bros. December 30, same year, they played their first
-minstrel engagement with Jerry Thomas’ Company in New York.
-
-They began the season of 1880 with Carncross’ Minstrels in
-Philadelphia, and remained there, until December, 1881, when they
-opened with George Thatcher’s Minstrels in Philadelphia for a brief
-engagement. Subsequently they were with Haverly, and a return to
-Carncross, where early in March, 1883, owing to Mr. Dockstader’s
-illness he was compelled to separate from Lew Dockstader.
-
-Later he did an act with William Lee as the “Dockstader’s;” also a
-sketch with Billy and Ella Watson in 1889. Of late years previous to
-his retirement he had been with dramatic companies.
-
-Charles Dockstader was born in Cleveland, Ohio, September 28, 1849; he
-died in Pleasantville, N. J., October 20, 1907.
-
-
-FRANK “POP” WARD, known everywhere as the “Terrible Judge” of
-vaudeville, began his professional career with Lent’s Circus in Newark,
-N. J., in 1871 as a trapeze performer.
-
-In 1873 he became a member of the Orpheus Quartette, and remained
-with them until he organized the original Clipper Quartette in 1879,
-opening at Tony Pastor’s in New York City. Mr. Ward continued with
-the quartette through the various changes until its dissolution,
-about 1893, playing with Snellbaker’s “Majestics”; Hyde and Behman’s
-Company; McIntyre and Heath’s Minstrels; Thatcher, Primrose and West’s
-Minstrels; Nat Goodwin and many high-class farcical organizations.
-
-Mr. Ward formed a partnership with John P. Curran in 1893, since which
-he has been most successfully appearing in vaudeville.
-
-“Pop” Ward is considered a wonder in the profession he so ably
-represents, possessing all the energy and vim of a performer of half
-his years.
-
-Francis T. Ward was born in New York City, January 4, 1849.
-
-
-FRANK TURNER (Trainor) was one of the Three Turner Brothers who
-appeared successfully in the variety theatres for several seasons.
-
-In Cincinnati, September 3, 1877, he formed a partnership with Albert
-Geyer, one of the three Geyer Brothers, doing black-face song and
-dances. His last appearance was at the Olympic Theatre, New York,
-November 12, 1877.
-
-He died in New York City, November 17, 1877.
-
-
-DENT. DELMANNING was one of the well-known Delmanning Brothers, a
-prominent song and dance team, who entered the profession about 1871.
-
-They were with Whitmore and Clark’s; Cal. Wagner’s; Barlow, Wilson and
-Rankin’s and other well-known minstrel organizations.
-
-He died in Brooklyn, N. Y., February 4, 1901.
-
-
-AL. HAYMAN, of the great theatrical syndicate, was in minstrelsy,
-though the author has no record of his ever “blacking up.”
-
-[Illustration:
-
- MRS. JAS. BUDWORTH
-
- MRS. BOBBY NEWCOMB
-
- MRS. E. N. SLOCUM
-
- MRS. FRED BUCKLEY
-
- MRS. “JACK” HAVERLY
-
- MRS. DAN. BRYANT
-
- MRS. J. R. KEMBLE
-
- MRS. JOHN MULLIGAN
-
- MRS. CHARLEY PETTENGILL
-
- MRS. BILLY EMERSON
-
- MRS. BILLY MANNING
-
- MRS. BILLY RICE
-
-WIVES OF FAMOUS MINSTRELS.]
-
-Hiscox and Hayman’s Minstrels were organized in Australia in the Spring
-of 1880.
-
-For further particulars see Willis P. Sweatnam.
-
-
-BILLY FREAR, was an unusually versatile black-face performer, being
-equally proficient as a dancer, banjoist or comedian; as an end man he
-was especially clever. His first minstrel engagement was with Duprez
-and Benedict’s, about 1865; he was quite popular with this company, and
-equally so with Carncross and Dixey in Philadelphia subsequently.
-
-His first wife was Millie Blair, a well-known song and dance artist;
-later he married a Miss Rogers. He died in Poughkeepsie, N. Y.,
-December 28, 1888; age 41 years.
-
-
-CHARLES W. COGILL made his first appearance with his brother in San
-Francisco; later he formed a partnership with Fred Cooper.
-
-In May, 1877, Cogill and Cooper built and opened the Adelphi Theatre in
-the California metropolis, and conducted it for several months.
-
-Mr. Cogill subsequently joined George Reynolds after the death of the
-latter’s brother in 1878; the alliance did not last long, and again he
-joined his brother, together they went to Australia, where they were
-great favorites. They opened in Sydney in April, 1885, later going to
-Melbourne, where they had their own theatre, and where they remained
-twelve years.
-
-About 1900 Mr. Cogill returned to America, and rejoined Cooper in a
-song and dance act.
-
-Charles W. Cogill was born in New York; he died in San Francisco, March
-16, 1903; age 53 years.
-
-
-JOHN M. TURNER (McTurney), a really great banjoist, formed a
-partnership with J. K. Buckley in a banjo act in the middle 70’s; they
-severed their business relations November 11, 1876.
-
-Mr. Turner was married in 1872.
-
-For several years prior to his death he had not been actively engaged
-in his profession.
-
-John M. Turner was born in New York about 1850; he died there September
-4, 1907.
-
-
-“BERNARDO” (Thomas White), a prominent female impersonator in the “good
-old days,” according to Frank Dumont, appeared as early as 1867 with
-Ned Davis’ Olio Minstrels as Master J. Buckley.
-
-He was with Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y., two years later,
-playing under his own name, Thos. White.
-
-He joined Lew Benedict’s Minstrels in July, 1872, subsequently he was
-associated with the San Francisco Minstrels in New York in 1875; the
-same year he joined Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y., and in 1878
-was a member of Charley Morris’ Minstrels. He was with Bryant’s in New
-York, also Haverly’s Minstrels.
-
-In May, 1877, with Charley Sutton, Francis Wilson and Jimmy Mackin, he
-launched Mackin, Wilson, Sutton and Bernardo’s Minstrels.
-
-“Bernardo” died in Brooklyn, N. Y., November 21, 1880.
-
-
-CHARLEY GLIDDEN was an “Oyster Can Moke” with the late Fred. Huber in
-1879.
-
-He is now a successful citizen of Seattle--and Seattle is said not to
-be sad.
-
-
-GEORGE GALE, famous for many years with many companies as a burlesque
-lyric artist and tenor vocalist, made his professional debut with
-Harry Robinson’s Minstrels at Coldwater, Mich., about 35 years ago;
-probably a little less than that--at any rate, he later joined
-Haverly’s Minstrels, and afterward Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s
-organization.
-
-While with Hyde and Behman’s Minstrels he was one of the members of the
-Clipper Quartette.
-
-Mr. Gale was located in Philadelphia with Carncross’ Minstrels, and in
-Chicago with Haverly’s Home Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Gale was also with McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s Minstrels, as well
-as various high-class farcical companies.
-
-At present he is now of the Clipper 3--Gale, Wensley and Manchester.
-
-George Gale is a finely preserved man for his age--which was
-“accidentally” not given to the author.
-
-
-JAMES B. FREAR was several years a minstrel, but abandoned that
-profession some time before his death for the more domestic one of
-barber.
-
-He died in Poughkeepsie, N. Y., January 6, 1885.
-
-
-NED WAMBOLD, the well-known comedian, and who was a nephew of Dave
-Wambold, made his first appearance in his native city with the Congo
-Minstrels, July 1, 1869.
-
-He was associated in the management of his own company with E. M. Hall
-and E. M. Kayne; the organization bore their names and started from
-Chicago, April 10, 1875. In the Fall of 1879 he joined Joe Norcross’
-California Minstrels, and late in December the following year he was a
-member of Kyle’s “Christy” Minstrels, who endeavored unsuccessfully to
-revive minstrelsy in Boston. He was also connected with several variety
-and other minstrel shows during his comparatively brief, but very
-successful career as a comedian.
-
-Ned Wambold was born in Newark, N. J.; he died there April 18, 1882.
-
-
-GEORGE F. MOORE was the originator of the noiseless Essence dance, and
-a performer versatile to a degree.
-
-His first appearance was made with Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N.
-Y., at the age of fourteen. At 18 he married Kittie Henderson, and they
-did sketches for several years, when the act was augmented by “Baby”
-Moore. November 12, 1879, he married Kittie Parker, the banjoist, in
-Denver, Colo.
-
-He had several companies of his own prior to going to England in July,
-1887, where he played the music halls until his death.
-
-George F. Moore was born in Cambridge, Mass., July 6, 1850; he died in
-Liverpool, England, October 21, 1890.
-
-
-THE AMERICAN TEAM were originally two distinct song and dance acts,
-WAYNE and LOVELY, COTTON and BIRDUE. They formed an alliance in the
-Spring of 1876, and after a few brief engagements in the United States,
-sailed for England, opening in London, June 26, 1876.
-
-They were a sensation in the English capitol, also in Paris. Early in
-1878 the four disbanded.
-
-Ben Cotton, who was a son of the noted minstrel of that name, married
-Mrs. Mary E. Marshall in London, June 28, 1877, and about a year later
-returned to the United States, and appeared with Ward and Webb’s
-Minstrels in the Spring of 1879, and Norcross’ California Minstrels in
-the Fall of the same year.
-
-As early as 1865 he was with Cotton and Murphy’s Minstrels as Master
-Bennie.
-
-Birdue and Wayne formed an alliance and played with Hague’s Minstrels
-in the Fall of 1878.
-
-Bob Birdue had various partners before associating with Ben Cotton,
-notably Richard Golden and Edw. B. Daily, well-known now in Boston.
-
-Burt Wayne (Bout) died in Liverpool, England, March 13, 1879.
-
-Joe Lovely died at Manchester, England, May 21, 1882; age 35 years.
-
-Ben Cotton, Jr., died in Bristol, R. I., October 26, 1880; age 26 years.
-
-Bob Birdue died in Liverpool, England, October 8, 1879.
-
-
-HARRY WATSON, one of the funniest Dutchmen on the vaudeville stage,
-began his professional career in Milwaukee, Wis., in 1859, doing a
-black-face song and dance for John Ryan. Mr. Watson worked for his
-board only, and got it.
-
-Subsequently he played many engagements in black-face; we’d like to see
-him do it now.
-
-
-GOSS and FOX were one of the best black-face song and dance teams in
-minstrelsy.
-
-They formed an alliance in the early 70’s, and were with Haverly’s
-Minstrels at the organization of that company in November, 1873. In
-January, 1878, they were with Simmons, Slocum and Sweatnam’s Minstrels
-in Philadelphia. The following season they joined Harrigan and Hart’s
-Company in New York and remained with them several seasons.
-
-Mr. Goss’ partner prior to meeting Mr. Fox was Lew Hallett; and as
-Hallett and Goss played an engagement with Cal. Wagner’s Minstrels,
-closing December 31, 1871.
-
-Mr. Goss’ first appearance was at Acker’s Garden, Troy, N. Y.
-
-Ned. Goss was born in Cohoes, N. Y., September 4, 1848; he died in New
-York City, April 16, 1882.
-
-James Fox, who was a brother of Ned Fox, was born at Little Falls, N.
-Y., March 28, 1853; he died at Amsterdam, N. Y., November 10, 1887.
-
-
-PAUL DRESSER, whose many songs were widely sung with many minstrel
-companies, was a member of Billy Rice’s Minstrels about 1885.
-
-He was born in Terre Haute, Ind.; he died in New York, January 30,
-1906.
-
-[Illustration: THE “MERRY OLD GALS” IN ENGLAND, 1871.
-
-H. Livermore, G. Livermore, C. Livermore, C. F. Lorraine, L. Livermore.]
-
-[Illustration: CALLAN, HALEY AND CALLAN’S ELECTRIC 3 MINSTRELS.
-
-November 3, 1886.]
-
-
-AL. G. FIELD (Alfred Griffith Hatfield) has been a name to conjure by
-in various parts of the Union for a period of nearly a quarter of a
-century; merely to announce that the famous minstrel and his company
-were to appear at a given place was practically saying that the
-minstrel loving population would turn out _en masse_ to greet them.
-
-Nearly everyone knows all about Mr. Field’s career from the inception
-of the Fields’ Minstrels to date; but how many are aware of the famous
-comedian’s early struggles he went through before he reached the goal
-of success? It is a pleasure for the author to recount them.
-
-Al. G. Field first appeared professionally at Jeffries Hall,
-Brownsville, Pa., about 1871; he performed in the old nigger act of
-“Handy Andy”; he attracted the attention of that famous minstrel Sam
-Sharpley, and became a member of his company, officially known as
-Sharpley, Sheridan, Mack and Day’s Minstrels; this was in the Winter
-of 1871. The following season he joined Bidwell and McDonough’s “Black
-Crook” Company; subsequently he appeared with the California Minstrels,
-and Tony Denier’s “Humpty Dumpty.” In November, 1876, he became a
-member of Haverly’s “Blackbirds of a Nation,” one of the many minstrel
-companies controlled at one time by that astute manager.
-
-Mr. Field’s other minstrel engagements were with Simmons and Slocum’s
-in 1877, and Duprez and Benedict’s, in 1883. In May, 1875, he paid a
-visit to Peter Sells’ and his circus, and in conjunction with McIntyre
-and Heath put on a minstrel first part, also did a monologue. Mr.
-Field’s success was so pronounced on this occasion that he not only
-continued during the balance of the season, but for ten consecutive
-years was associated with the famous Sells organization during the
-tenting seasons, in the capacity of performer, also filling responsible
-executive positions.
-
-In the Spring of 1884 Mr. Field organized what is now the
-Hagenbeck-Wallace Show, opening at Peru, Ind., April 27; he remained
-with them as manager until September 9, 1886.
-
-On the sixth day of October, 1886, the Al. G. Field’s Minstrels were
-organized; the company numbered 27 persons, and gave their initial
-performance at Marion, Ohio. The rest we all know.
-
-Mr. Field claims that his minstrel company was the first to carry their
-entire stage setting and scenery, and the first to build and operate a
-special train of cars.
-
-May 10, 1910, the company was incorporated.
-
-Al. G. Field was born near Morgantown, W. Va. (but at the time
-Virginia), November 7, 1850.
-
-
-SEAMON and SOMMERS were an excellent black-face song and dance team who
-formed an alliance in the middle 70’s.
-
-In the Fall of 1877 they were with Neil Bryant’s Minstrels;
-subsequently they were with other first-class organizations until
-December, 1880, when with the Girard Bros, as the “Grotesque 4”
-they began an engagement with Thatcher and Ryman’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia. Early in 1882 Seamon, Sommers and the Girard Bros., in
-conjunction with Lester and Allen, formed the “Funny 6.”
-
-Charley Seamon met with great success as Reuben Whipple in “Way Down
-East”; he was equally successful with Russell’s famous “City Directory”
-prior to that.
-
-Tom Sommers was the husband of Carrie Boshell, of the well-known
-Boshell Sisters, once of Carter’s Zouaves.
-
-Charles V. Seamon died at Sheffield, Mass., July 27, 1898.
-
-Tom Sommers (Thos. Eugene Sommerville) died at St. Paul, Minn.,
-September 12, 1891.
-
-
-FRED BRYANT (Snyder) began his professional career with Charley West
-about 1875, doing a musical act as Bryant and West; they continued as
-partners about three years.
-
-In 1878 he joined William F. Hoey, and as Bryant and Hoey they gave one
-of the greatest black-face musical acts ever seen.
-
-In 1882 the combination of Evans, Bryant and Hoey formed a company
-called the “Meteors.”
-
-About two years later Mr. Bryant withdrew, and subsequently played
-mostly in the variety houses.
-
-As a cornettist he ranked with the best.
-
-Fred Bryant died in New York City, June 22, 1894.
-
-
-JOSEPH BROOKS, the well-known theatrical magnate, now located in New
-York City, was formerly a minstrel magnate. When? August 24, 1881, the
-season of Brooks, Dickson and Clapham’s Minstrels was inaugurated.
-
-
-FRANK HOWARD (Parlimenta), once of the Clipper Quartette, and also of
-the famous minstrel act of Adams, Casey and Howard, is in business in
-New Jersey.
-
-
-DAVE FOY was several years as a clown with Robinson’s Circus,
-commencing about 1876; subsequently he was with the “Two John’s”
-Company; as late as 1887, with Lizzie Foy, he played the principal
-vaudeville houses.
-
-Season of 1891-92 he was with Primrose and West. In 1890 he joined
-Carncross’s Minstrels in Philadelphia; during the World’s Fair in
-Chicago, he played with Haverly; subsequently returning to Carncross,
-where he was quite popular; his excessive avoirdupois contributed in a
-small measure to his success.
-
-Dave Foy was born in Philadelphia, where he died October 16, 1900.
-
-
-JABEZ FREETH, interlocutor and bass singer in the California Quartette,
-was prominently identified with the minstrel companies of Haverly,
-Emerson and several others.
-
-He died in San Francisco, Cal., July 11, 1882.
-
-
-ADAMS AND LEE were a prominent black-face musical team who formed a
-partnership in the 70’s. In 1878 they were with Haverly’s Mastodons.
-
-Mr. Adams was subsequently of the team of Adams, Casey and Howard.
-
-Mr. Lee later did considerable concert work with Billy Huntley. As a
-banjoist Mr. Lee excelled.
-
-James E. Adams died in New York, December 4, 1897.
-
-John H. Lee died in San Diego, Cal., September 7, 1890.
-
-
-JOHN E. HENSHAW, famous for many moons for his comedy work in various
-successful productions, played the tambourine on the end with a
-minstrel show in June, 1871.
-
-The following year he was with Harry Robinson’s Minstrels, and
-for several seasons was of the black-face song and dance teams of
-Henshaw and Lawton, and Henshaw and Ginniven. In 1879 he was with the
-California Minstrels. So you see Mr. Henshaw has qualified to become a
-permanent resident of “Monarchs of Minstrelsy.”
-
-
-WALLY GIBBS, a well-known black-face comedian, who was with the
-Megatherian Minstrels in 1879, died in Warwick, Mass., April 22, 1893.
-
-
-BARNEY FAGAN (Bernard J. Fagan) is justly recognized as the world’s
-greatest general dancer; as a producer, he ranks second to none.
-
-Mr. Fagan made his first professional appearance in his native city at
-the famous Howard Athenaeum in 1860, as the Cabin Boy in the “Pilot of
-Brest.” He remained at this theatre several seasons. In 1865 he played
-his first minstrel engagement with the Morris Brothers in Boston. In
-1870 Mr. Fagan went to St. Johns, N. B., and appeared with Pete Lee’s
-Minstrels.
-
-In 1873 he joined Buckley’s Serenaders in Boston, and took Joe Parks as
-a partner; the next three years, Fagan and Parks, known as the American
-Lads, played variety engagements.
-
-In 1876 he did the famous Heifer dance with Richard Golden in
-“Evangeline.” Mr. Fagan next joined John Fenton in a dancing specialty,
-and continued with him until 1878, when he formed a partnership with
-Lizzie Mulvey, which lasted one season.
-
-Mr. Fagan in 1879 allied himself with Barlow, Wilson, Primrose
-and West’s Minstrels, and continued with them until the company’s
-dissolution in June, 1882; with this organization he was general
-producer and soloist.
-
-Probably Mr. Fagan’s greatest achievement was in organizing and
-producing Sweatnam, Billy Rice and Fagan’s Minstrels, which gave their
-first performance at Albany, N. Y., July 25, 1887; this was the largest
-minstrel company that had ever traveled; 105 persons on parade; 88 in
-the regular company; incidentally that show was just twenty-three years
-ahead of its time; in other words, Sweatnam, Rice and Fagan’s minstrels
-are about due again.
-
-Subsequently Mr. Fagan was with Thatcher, Primrose and West; Barlow,
-Wilson and Rankin’s; and Cleveland’s Minstrels; with the latter
-organization sitting on the opposite end to Luke Schoolcraft.
-
-Outside of minstrelsy Mr. Fagan has appeared successfully in white-face
-in such plays as “Paradise Alley,” and his own company, “A High
-Roller,” the latter in 1890.
-
-Some notable marches were the “West Point Cadets”; the “Phantom Guards”
-and “The Dance of the Popinjays”; the latter being one of the cleverest
-conceits ever seen in minstrelsy.
-
-Mr. Fagan was general producer for Corinne for several seasons, also
-with other notable companies.
-
-As a song writer he is no less prominent; “Everybody Takes Their Hat
-Off to Me,” and “A High Born Lady,” each enjoyed great popularity.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- SIG. RAFAELLE ABECCO
-
- CHAS. HENRY
-
- CHAS. MELVILLE
-
- CHAS. TEMPLETON
-
- J. B. MURPHY
-
- “JACK” HERMAN
-
- GEO. GRAY
-
- TOM PRENDERGAST
-
- OTIS CARTER
-
- CHAS. LOCKWOOD
-
- TOM LESLIE
-
- JOHN F. OBERIST
-
-SINGERS OF THE 60’s.]
-
-Likewise did this versatile genius write some very clever plays,
-notably--“The Land of Fancy,” “The Game of Love” and several others.
-Mr. Fagan has been playing with Henrietta Byron, of the Byron Sisters,
-since 1895.
-
-Barney Fagan was born in Boston, Mass., January 12, 1850.
-
-
-“EUSTACHE” (George Worrell Culbertson), until February, 1878, was known
-as George Robinson. He attained prominence as a female impersonator,
-and made his first appearance with Dan Shelby, at his variety house in
-Buffalo, N. Y.
-
-His principal minstrel engagements were with Harry Robinson, and Cal.
-Wagner’s.
-
-“Eustache” is said to be a native of Piqua, O.; he died at Buffalo, N.
-Y., April 30, 1884.
-
-
-WILL H. MORTON (Bushman), well known as an able interlocutor and singer
-of motto songs, was one of the original members of Haverly’s Minstrels
-of 1873; subsequently he did sketches with “Bernardo.”
-
-Mr. Morton was the husband of Lily Post, the favorite light opera
-singer.
-
-Will H. Morton died in Pittsburgh, Pa., November 2, 1895.
-
-
-EDWIN HARLEY, a well-known vocalist of the old Haverly days, made his
-first appearance as a member of Maguire’s Minstrels in San Francisco,
-February 23, 1874. Mr. Harley is said to be comfortably situated in the
-railroad business in the great Northwest.
-
-
-EDDID FOY (Fitzgerald), the “famed farceur with the funny face,” was
-a black-face song and dance man more than thirty years ago. He was of
-the team of Foy and Thompson; they began an engagement at Carncross’
-Minstrels in Philadelphia, as late as January 22, 1883. This was before
-Mr. Foy had dark designs of donning the habiliments of Hamlet.
-
-
-HARRY BUDWORTH (John B. Kearney) was well known as a capable comedian,
-and was associated with some of the best minstrel organizations.
-
-His professional career began in the early 70’s, and ended shortly
-before his death, when he achieved considerable success appearing in
-vaudeville in Charles Horwitz’s “A Royal Visitor.”
-
-Harry Budworth died in Philadelphia, April 2, 1901.
-
-
-JAMES H. DECKER began his professional career in an executive capacity
-with Cooper and Bailey’s Circus in 1879, and continued with them for
-three seasons.
-
-Minstrelsy first knew him also in 1879, when he was with Hooley and
-Emerson’s Megatherians. In 1881 he joined Sells Brothers Circus,
-and the following year was assistant agent with Leavitt’s Gigantean
-Minstrels.
-
-In 1883 he returned to Sells Brothers, and continued with them three
-years. Mr. Decker was so highly esteemed by his associates, that in
-November, 1883, they presented him with a gold watch charm.
-
-At the conclusion of the circus season in 1886, Mr. Decker finally
-decided to cast his lot with minstrelsy. Accordingly on December 20,
-1886, he joined McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s Minstrels as general
-agent; he continued with this company until the end of the following
-season, when he joined Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Minstrels;
-subsequently he was with Primrose and West’s Company, severing his
-connection with them December 21, 1889.
-
-His next engagement was with George Thatcher’s Company, and in 1892, in
-conjunction with Al. Primrose, formed Decker Brothers Minstrels. Since
-then he has been identified in a managerial capacity successively with
-Primrose and West’s; Primrose and Dockstader’s; Primrose’s, and lastly
-Dockstader’s Minstrels.
-
-At the present time he is General Manager of the booking department of
-the Shubert theatrical forces.
-
-Mr. Decker, who is an indefatigable worker, can see nothing in
-minstrelsy except that which he is identified with at that precise
-moment, and like most successful men, has enemies galore.
-
-James H. Decker was born in Albany, N. Y. See records for exact date.
-
-
-CHARLES M. ERNEST (McClenehan) was an extraordinary brilliant
-black-face performer, and as a straight man in acts was especially
-clever.
-
-He was prominently identified with William H. West’s Minstrels in the
-late 90’s, and at one time was a partner of Tom Lewis.
-
-Shortly previous to his death, in conjunction with George Thatcher, he
-gave a mythical minstrel first part scene in vaudeville with pronounced
-success.
-
-He was once the husband of Cora Beckwith, the well-known swimmer.
-
-Charles M. Ernest was born in Jackson, Tenn.; he died in Harrison, N.
-Y., May 21, 1907.
-
-
-FRED FREAR joined Moore and Burgess’ Minstrels in London, England, at
-the age of seven years as a ballad singer; later he developed into a
-fine song and dance performer and female impersonator. He was with that
-company for fourteen years.
-
-He died in London, England, August 12, 1889; age 25 years.
-
-
-SHARPLEY AND WEST, the well known black-face musical act, made their
-appearance as a team in Hoboken, N. J., about 1878, and continued until
-the death of the former; during which period they played the best
-variety houses and organizations.
-
-Previous to forming a partnership with Fred. Sharpley, Mr. West had
-been associated with Charley Hanson, whom he joined in 1872.
-
-Later he did an act with Sam Dearin, the latter was then known as Billy
-Bryant.
-
-Mr. West subsequently joined Fred Bryant, and as Bryant and West were
-associated about three years; then came Sharpley and West.
-
-Fred Sharpley was born in Montreal, Canada, January 17, 1856; he died
-in Chicago, Ill., March 23, 1888.
-
-Charley West was born in New York City, June 18, 1850.
-
-
-ARCHIE BALDWIN (Stockmar), famous as one of the team of Baldwin and
-Daly, whose “Happy Hottentots” was one of the best black-face acts on
-the variety stage, died in Havana, Cuba, January 7, 1900; age 47 years.
-
-
-HARRY LANSING (Zebley) an old-time female impersonator, was with
-Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels in Philadelphia in 1874; in 1879 he was
-with Haverly’s Minstrels.
-
-About the middle 80’s he had as a partner, Harry Constantine; together
-they played the variety theatres.
-
-Harry Lansing died (murdered) in Philadelphia, February, 1887.
-
-
-NOLAN KELLY, of the black-face song and dance team of Sarony, Waters
-and Kelly, also Waters and Kelly, died in London, England, April 15,
-1893.
-
-
-WM. H. BRYANT (O’Brien), a nephew of Dan, Neil, Jerry and William T.
-Bryant, and the son of a father who was a non-professional, played with
-Neil Bryant’s Minstrels in 1878; he was a comedian.
-
-He died in Portland, Me., April 29, 1890; age 38 years.
-
-
-EMIL AMES. This clever performer was of diminutive stature, and a good
-comedian. He was with Jerry Thomas’ Minstrels in 1878, and with Haverly
-in Chicago a few years later, also other prominent organizations.
-
-Emil Ames died in Chicago, Ill., March 3, 1892.
-
-
-BILLY RICHARDSON won fame as a stump speaker, but was likewise a
-good end man, or corner man, as they call them in England, where Mr.
-Richardson’s professional career was chiefly spent as a member of
-Sam Hague’s Minstrels. He came to the United States with the latter
-organization, and made his first New York appearance January 2, 1882.
-
-The following year he was with Haverly’s Minstrels; subsequently he
-returned to his native land.
-
-He married Miss Mary O’Hagan, May 17, 1871.
-
-Billy Richardson was born in England about fifty-five years ago, maybe
-sixty; we hope it is no worse.
-
-
-THE DEVERE BROS. joined hands about 1876, and up to the time of Tommy
-Devere’s death played the principal variety theatres; William Devere
-then joined Robert Wilson, appearing as Devere and Wilson; after a
-brief season William Devere joined George DeVere, and as the Devere
-Brothers continued until December 2, 1882, William Devere then taking
-the business management of the National Theatre in Hackensack, N. J.
-
-William Devere (Bell) died in New York City, December 14, 1882.
-
-Tommy Devere (Braun), died in New York City, April 2, 1880; age 24
-years.
-
-
-CHARLEY ATKINS, who has long since retired from active theatricals, and
-embarked in mercantile pursuits in New York City, was once the partner
-of Joe Fox, of Fox and Ward; this was in the late 60’s; though Mr.
-Atkins doesn’t look it.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- SHER. CAMPBELL
-
- J. K. CAMPBELL
-
- J. C. (“POMP”) CAMPBELL
-
- TOM WILLIAMS
-
- DICK RALPH
-
- HARRY ARMSTRONG
-
-THE “CAMPBELLS ARE HERE,” ALSO TOM, DICK AND HARRY.]
-
-
-“CINCINNATUS” (Michael O’Connor), one of the best neat song and dance
-men in minstrelsy, began life as a newsboy in Cincinnati. He was a
-regular attendant of Newcomb’s Minstrels in the Queen City; it was
-here that he first saw Billy Emerson, and at once became an ardent
-admirer of him. Young O’Connor attracted the attention of manager W. W.
-Newcomb, who gave him an opportunity to appear, which he did week of
-October 12, 1868, under his own name, as a jig dancer, but taking that
-of “Cincinnatus” in the songs and dances.
-
-“Cincinnatus” made no secret of the fact that he imitated Emerson,
-which he did with great fidelity. He soon attained great popularity in
-the West. His next engagement was with Lewis and Murphy’s Minstrels,
-opening at St. Louis, July 24, 1869.
-
-His first New York appearance was with Newcomb and Arlington’s
-Minstrels, April 17, 1871.
-
-May 5, 1873, the “Cincinnatus” Minstrels took the road for a brief
-period, opening at Xenia, Ohio. April 15, 1878, he formed an alliance
-with John Hogan, and as Hogan and “Cincinnatus” they made their first
-appearance at the London Theatre, New York.
-
-“Cincinnatus” died at Xenia, Ohio, April 25, 1882.
-
-
-BOOKER AND CANFIELD constituted one of the truly great song and dance
-teams of minstrelsy. Both performers were short in stature, and each
-began their careers in the circus business.
-
-In 1871 they formed a partnership, doing an acrobatic song and dance,
-subsequently they went to South America with Chiarini’s Circus;
-returning to the United States they became members of Cal. Wagner’s
-Minstrels, where they were a sensation.
-
-Their success was so great that several managers competed for their
-services; J. H. Haverly was the lucky bidder, and they joined his
-company in December, 1873, remaining five years at probably the highest
-salary ever given a song and dance team, viz: $300.00 per week, and 5
-per cent. of the net profits, it is said.
-
-Other prominent organizations they were associated with
-were--Emerson’s, in Chicago, Welch, Hughes and White in Brooklyn, and
-Moore and Burgess in London, England.
-
-They are credited with being the first black-face team to play in
-Paris, France, where they sang “Moonlight in Cape May” in French;
-subsequently they played in Berlin, Hamburg, Vienna and Madrid, singing
-the same song in the language of the respective countries.
-
-They also played engagements in India, China, Japan, Java and Australia.
-
-Returning to this country in 1881, they organized their own company,
-and in May, 1882, the long partnership ceased.
-
-Mr. Canfield was identified for many years with the famous Hoyt
-farces, and was co-star with George Richards in these plays for
-several seasons. His last engagement was with David Warfield in “The
-Auctioneer.” He was a brother of John Canfield, of the vaudeville team
-of Canfield and Carleton.
-
-Harry Booker did an act with George A. Booker (Dingle), after leaving
-Mr. Canfield, and at the present time is in vaudeville.
-
-Eugene Canfield (Francis Ramie Canfield), was born in Utica, N. Y., May
-3, 1851; he died in New York City, May 4, 1904.
-
-Harry Booker (M. H. Egan), was born near Bowling Green, Ky., July 28,
-1850.
-
-
-JOHN TURNER, a good song and dance performer, at various times was
-associated with Billy Lester and James Roche in black-face specialties;
-he was also of the team of Cummings and Turner.
-
-He died at Kansas City, Mo., November 26, 1877; age 27 years.
-
-
-THE BARLOW BROTHERS were one of the best-known song and dance teams in
-minstrelsy. In 1867 they were performing at the Bowery Theatre, New
-York City.
-
-In 1871 they were with Morris Brothers Minstrels, closing February
-3, 1872; in September, the following year, they joined Simmons and
-Slocum’s Minstrels in Philadelphia; they did a plantation song and
-dance turn there which they called “Quit Dat”: perhaps most of us
-picture that act. April 10, 1877, at Cynthiana, Ky., saw the first
-performance of Barlow Brothers Minstrels, an organization that toured
-the country for about fifteen years.
-
-The Barlow Brothers were with Harrigan and Hart’s Company in 1882;
-their last joint minstrel engagement was with Ed. Bartlett’s California
-Minstrels, November and December, 1898.
-
-The following season brother Bill put in at Dumont’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia, where he did an act with that “prince of pianists,” Tom
-Waters.
-
-James Barlow (Arthur), was born at Mount Savanage, Md.; he died at
-Roscoe, Pa., August 4, 1900; age 51 years.
-
-William Barlow (Arthur), is at present in retirement in Pittsburgh, Pa.
-
-
-BILLY ARNOLD (Wm. Henry Garrett Arnold) made his first appearance
-at the Louisville, Kentucky Opera House, doing a sand jig dance at
-the tender age of eight years, and says he has been dancing ever
-since--with occasional interruptions for food and sleep.
-
-About 1865 he doubled with his brother Amos, doing songs and dances;
-and in 1873, the alliance was further strengthened by the addition of
-the youngest brother, Frank, being known as the Three Arnold Brothers;
-Eugene Stratton became the fourth “brother” a few years later, and
-together they played the principal variety companies of the country.
-
-The three Arnolds were with the original Haverly’s Mastodons at the
-opening at the Adelphi Theatre, Chicago, October 21, 1878; later Billy
-Arnold’s own minstrels took the road, and he has been with several
-prominent organizations since, notably Hooley’s Minstrels in 1881, and
-Billy Rice and Hooley’s Minstrels in 1882.
-
-Billy Arnold is best known to the public as a great tambourine
-manipulator, and was the acknowledged champion as early as 1877; his
-feat of spinning two tambourines at one time was invariably encored
-during the overture on the first part.
-
-Some years ago Mr. Arnold married Lida Gardner, daughter of the famous
-Dan Gardner. Both are actively engaged in their profession.
-
-Billy Arnold was born in Louisville, Ky., July 10, 1850.
-
-
-AMOS D. ARNOLD began as a black-face performer with his brother Billy,
-singing “Sally Come Up” at the age of ten; most of his career was in
-conjunction with his two brothers.
-
-He was born in Louisville, Ky., February 28, 1855; died at San
-Francisco, Cal., March 16, 1886.
-
-
-FRANK ARNOLD (Francisco Virello Fortinetti Arnold) could dance from the
-time he reached his seventh year. His first professional appearance
-in conjunction with his two brothers was made at Mortimer’s Varieties
-(the present National Theatre), Philadelphia, in “The Old Man’s Drunk
-Again,” a well-known vehicle for many prominent black-face performers;
-this was in 1873, and with his brothers they likewise met with great
-success. In 1875 the three brothers played an engagement of seven
-months at 585 Broadway, New York City.
-
-Frank Arnold was born in Louisville, Ky., June 28, 1858; he died at
-Denver, Colo., January 22, 1892.
-
-
-LEWIS H. DAVIS made his first appearance about 1867 with the late
-Richard Golden, doing black-face songs and dances; they were billed
-as Masters Lew and Dick. Their first engagement was with Wheeler’s
-International Circus, following this they were with Smith, Davenport
-and Golden’s Variety Company. Early in 1868 Allie’s Mexican Knife
-Throwers Company claimed their services, and part of the season of
-1869-70 they played an engagement with Sam Sharpley’s Minstrels. Later
-with Golden he joined and did songs and dances with Bob Birdue.
-
-After this and until his untimely death, which occurred in the
-dressing-room just prior to the performance, he was associated with
-Billy Chace, and as Chace and Davis they played the principal variety
-houses of the country, also an engagement with Sweet and Thornton’s
-Lady Minstrels, in the Spring of 1875.
-
-Lewis H. Davis was born in Bangor, Me.; he died (suicide) at St. Johns,
-N. B., August 3, 1878.
-
-
-BILLY BARRY, one of the funniest Irish comedians our stage has ever
-known, did black-face business for many years before “McKenna’s
-Flirtation” with Mary Ellen Ryan.
-
-He was with Haverly’s Minstrels in 1868, leaving that organization on
-December 8, that year.
-
-September 12, 1870, he opened with Welch, Hughes and White’s Minstrels
-in Brooklyn, N. Y., being billed as the “Great Western Comedian,”
-subsequently he played an engagement with Simmons and Slocum’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia. And for several seasons at Pastor’s Theatre
-in New York City, he played black-face parts in the stock.
-
-Mr. Barry was married to Miss Fanny Fordham, and at the time of his
-death was survived by seven children--Lydia, Emma, Clara, Robert,
-Frank, Charles and William J.
-
-Billy Barry was born in Ireland; he died in Brooklyn, N. Y., April 15,
-1898; age 48 years.
-
-
-BILLY DIAMOND (Bates), a good general performer, was connected with
-several of the older minstrel organizations, notably the Morris
-Brothers, with whom he made his first appearance in his native city at
-the age of 10.
-
-In 1881 he married Minnie Blaich, at Newark, N. J.
-
-He died at Boston, Mass., January 14, 1893.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- “PONY” MOORE
-
- EPH. HORN
-
- FRED. WILSON
- (The oldest living minstrel)
-
- LEW. BENEDICT
-
- DAN. BRYANT
-
-“GENTLEMEN, BE SEATED.”]
-
-
-BOBBY MCGOWN was a first-class clog dancer, and was the first partner
-of George Primrose, whom he joined in E. Saginaw, Mich., about 1870.
-With Primrose he played the variety houses, and an engagement with
-O’Brien’s Circus.
-
-He died (drowned), at Holyoke, Mass., August 22, 1875.
-
-
-ARCHIE WHITE (Moak), known to patrons of minstrelsy for over forty
-years, began his professional career in the late 60’s, and early took
-as a partner, Frank White, of Auburn, N. Y., with whom he did double
-songs and dances; later they formed an amateur minstrel show, visiting
-nearby towns. His first regular engagement was with the Park Theatre
-Company of Brooklyn, N. Y.; it lasted one consecutive week.
-
-In 1870 he became a member of Blaisdell Brothers and Courtright’s
-Minstrels, opening at Portage City, Wis.; it was with this company that
-chance gave him an opportunity to do an “end”; and he did it well;
-this engagement lasted thirteen months. Next came a series of variety
-engagements. In 1873 he became a “member” of the famous Peak Family of
-Bell Ringers, doing a genteel song and dance.
-
-His next prominent engagement was with Harry Robinson’s Minstrels; with
-this company he formed a partnership with the late Charles T. Ellis, of
-“Casper, the Yodler” fame. After this Mr. White played variety theatres
-for two years, then a short trip with one of Haverly’s Minstrel
-companies.
-
-After Lew Benedict withdrew from the Duprez and Benedict organization,
-Mr. Duprez, who continued to use the trade-mark, chose Mr. White as
-his late partner’s successor; he joined the company at Scranton, Pa.,
-September 17, 1877, and remained eight years.
-
-Of late years Mr. White has been successful in rural drama, appearing
-in the plays “Joshua Simpkins” and “Uncle Josh, in Chinatown.”
-
-At the present time he is actively engaged in vaudeville, giving his
-old darky delineations, of which he is a master.
-
-In the early minstrel days Mr. White ranked high as a tambourine
-manipulator.
-
-Archie White was born in Cherry Valley, N. Y., January 20, 1850.
-
-
-PRESS ELDREDGE (Preston W. Eldredge), whose sobriquet of “The
-Commander-in-Chief of the Army of Fun” is known wherever the vaudeville
-language is spoken, began his stage career at the New Bowery Theatre
-in 1863, at a benefit for J. W. Lingard; his offering was “Johnny
-Schmoker,” in Dutch dialect.
-
-His black-face career dates from 1876, at which time he entered the
-variety business, doing a monologue successfully for two years. In 1878
-he made his first minstrel appearance with Harry Bloodgood’s Minstrels,
-doing an “end,” and as comedian, the tour was a brief one, and
-returning to New York he resumed his variety engagements until 1880,
-when he joined Snellbaker and Benton’s Majestic Consolidation, under
-canvas. In 1881 he opened the American Theatre, New Haven, Conn., as a
-variety house, remaining until January, 1886, when he went to Koster
-& Bial’s, 23rd Street Music Hall, New York City, as stage manager
-and producer. In November, the same year, he made his initial bow at
-Carncross’ Minstrels in Philadelphia, and continued there until April,
-1891, at which time he went to Moore and Burgess’ Minstrels in London,
-England, and played a year’s engagement. In May, 1892, he joined
-Haverly’s Home Minstrels in Chicago, and stayed there until the company
-went on tour in November, 1893.
-
-Then came a riotous round of vaudeville, solid until 1906, when Al. G.
-Field showed him a handsome parade suit and the diagram of the Field
-private car--and something else and--well, the season of 1906--and
-1907, saw Mr. Eldridge back among 11.45 boys for a period of about ten
-months; since then, vaudeville. Mr. Eldridge was married some years ago
-to Louise Sanford, from whom he subsequently separated.
-
-Press Eldredge was born in Philadelphia; guess when.
-
-
-GEORGE HORN, was sometimes called “Eph. Horn, Jr.” He was a comedian
-and very well known in Philadelphia, where he died June 28, 1904.
-
-
-BURT SHEPARD, recognized as a clever female impersonator in his early
-career, commenced professionally with Haverly’s New Orleans Minstrels
-about 1874, and continued with them three years. In 1878 he became a
-member of Sweatnam’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, and at the close of
-the season joined Billy Emerson and the Big 4 Minstrels; season of
-1879 and 1880 was spent with Carncross’ Minstrels in Philadelphia; he
-then joined the Thatcher, Primrose and West Company, and was with them
-practically from their inception to their dissolution; later he was
-identified with Thatcher and Rich and Harris’ “Tuxedo” for two seasons.
-
-1892-93 saw Shepard and Billy Rice’s Minstrels, while a year later Burt
-Shepard’s Modern Minstrels took the field.
-
-In 1895 Mr. Shepard was with Cleveland’s Minstrels, where he officiated
-in the middle, in addition to doing a black-face specialty; season of
-1896-97 was devoted to vaudeville. In 1897 he went to England, and
-subsequently to Paris, South Africa and Australia, all the time meeting
-with unqualified success with his monologue and parodies at the piano.
-
-Burt Shepard was born; of that I am sure, but just when or where, he
-neglected to state.
-
-
-FRED B. MALCOLM, the “male soprano,” and an exceedingly clever one, was
-a protege of the late Jessie Bartlett Davis, and acquired his early
-musical education from E. L. Bartlett, father of Mrs. Davis.
-
-His professional career began with the Bartlett Sister’s Concert
-Company, which was brought to a sudden termination by the death of Miss
-Arabella Bartlett. Two years were then spent in variety theatres.
-
-His first appearance in female make-up was at the Queen’s Theatre,
-Toronto, Canada. Later he was engaged by J. H. Haverly for the latter’s
-new “Mastodons,” with whom he played for three seasons; after the
-consolidation of the two companies (Haverly’s), Mr. Malcolm continued
-with Mr. Haverly for nine months; a record of which to be proud.
-
-An engagement of three years with Billy Emerson’s Minstrels in San
-Francisco followed; during this time Mr. Malcolm was away from the
-company but four weeks.
-
-A return engagement with Haverly, opening at the Drury Lane Theatre,
-London, England, May 31, 1884, and continuing as a member of that
-organization for one year, followed. Returning to America, Mr.
-Malcolm remained with Mr. Haverly until the latter sold out to W.
-S. Cleveland. He became a member of McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s
-Minstrels in 1886, and continued with them until the dissolution of
-the organization, about May, 1888; subsequently joining Johnson and
-Slavin’s Minstrels.
-
-Since that time Mr. Malcolm did concert work chiefly. In his early
-career he did a specialty in the leading variety theatres with the late
-Arthur Doty.
-
-Fred B. Malcolm was born near Morris, Ill.; he died in Chicago, Ill.,
-April 3, 1910.
-
-
-FRANK H. WHITE began his professional career as a member of the Aeolian
-Quartette in his native city in 1871, and continued with them for seven
-years.
-
-He married in 1879, and as Frank H. and Lillian White they played
-variety engagements until about 1891, when they separated.
-
-He played black-face parts in dramatic companies for a while, and about
-fifteen or eighteen years ago was with Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels.
-
-A few years ago he joined Lew Simmons in an old-time black-face act,
-with whom he is still associated.
-
-Mr. White is a great delineator of the scary coon.
-
-Frank H. White was born in Newark, N. J.
-
-
-RICHARD MAGEE, JR., well known as a vocalist in Philadelphia, joined
-Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels in that city late in December, 1872,
-terminating his engagement April 5, 1873.
-
-He died February 27, 1880.
-
-
-“MEMPHIS” Kennedy, a well-known black-face performer, who did a unique
-musical act, was with Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels about 1893, also other
-well-known companies.
-
-He was drowned near Hannibal Mo., October 12, 1907.
-
-
-BOB HEIGHT, the well-known colored comedian, who was a favorite with
-Sam Hague’s Minstrels in Liverpool, England, in the middle 70’s died in
-Manchester, England, September 8, 1881.
-
-
-BURTON STANLEY was famous for his female impersonations. In 1875 he
-was with Haverly’s Minstrels; September 2, 1879, he joined a dramatic
-organization in “Larks,” and a few months later was traveling with
-Stanley’s Juvenile Company. August 24, 1881, he opened with Brooks,
-Dickson and Clapham’s Minstrels; the tour was a brief one and in
-November following, Mr. Stanley joined Leavitt’s Minstrels. His next
-important engagement was with Emerson’s Minstrels in San Francisco;
-here he met Gus Pixley, later forming an alliance, playing the variety
-houses for several seasons. Mr. Stanley retired from the profession
-some years ago, and is now a prosperous boniface in the West.
-
-
-HARRY (Jas. H.) ARMSTRONG or “Handsome Harry” (see portrait) as he was
-known, began his professional career about forty years ago, and only a
-short time later launched Armstrong’s Constellation Variety Troupe and
-Female Minstrels.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- W. W. BLACK
-
- CHAS. T. WHITE
-
- JOHN J. BLUE
-
- BILLY GRAY
-
- JOE. BROWN
-
- JNO. E. GREEN
-
-HOW’S THIS FOR A COLOR SCHEME?]
-
-In 1874 he was with Harry Robinson’s Minstrels and the following year
-with one of Leavitt’s attractions.
-
-In the fall of 1879 he joined the Big Four Minstrels, and in 1881
-became a member of Leavitt’s Minstrels. 1882 saw him with Courtright
-and Hawkin’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, and the following season he was
-with Haverly’s Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Armstrong joined Sweatnam, Rice and Fagan’s Minstrels in 1887 for
-the season; in 1892 he was again with Haverly at the latter’s permanent
-home of minstrelsy in Chicago; at this house he did acts with Harry
-Constantine, the female impersonator.
-
-Harry Armstrong was born at Wilmington, Del., April 3, 1850.
-
-
-HARRY SHIRLEY, a well-known singer, who was with Emerson’s Minstrels
-in San Francisco in 1881, also other prominent companies, died in Los
-Angeles, Cal., September 22, 1889.
-
-
-OTIS BOWERS, of the old minstrel firm of “Beach and Bowers” Minstrels,
-when last heard of was a contented resident of Maquoketa, Iowa.
-
-After six months of constant practice, the author is able to spell and
-pronounce properly the name of the thriving little town in the state
-that produced Bert Leslie.
-
-
-HARRY SHAY (Shea) was a well known and capable black-face comedian and
-general performer. He had been associated with many of the prominent
-variety theatres as stock comedian, and was especially a favorite in
-Paterson, N. J., where he died, November 4, 1886.
-
-
-HURLEY AND MARR, famous for many years in their black-face songs and
-dances, formed a partnership about 1869; they appeared with Hooley’s
-Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y., in December of that year.
-
-Subsequently they played successful engagements with Hooley in Chicago
-in the Fall of 1872, leaving Hooley to join Arlington, Cotton and
-Kemble’s Minstrels, in the same city.
-
-They also appeared with Bryant’s in New York, and Simmons and Slocum in
-Philadelphia.
-
-Mr. Marr later separated from Hurley, and for about ten years worked
-with his brother John, as the Marr Brothers.
-
-J. Hurley died in New York, July 22, 1886.
-
-Billy Marr was born in New York; he died in Brooklyn, N. Y., December
-13, 1892; age 40 years.
-
-
-JAMES HOLLY, of the once well-known and favorite black-face song and
-dance team of Homer and Holly, died in Memphis, Tenn., January 17,
-1891; age 40 years.
-
-
-CARROLL JOHNSON (James Carroll) is one of the foremost living
-minstrels, and is justly entitled to the appellation “Beau Brummell” of
-minstrelsy; his costumes and acting as the dandy darky, making him a
-likely prototype in black of that famous personage.
-
-Mr. Johnson’s theatrical career began at the Bowery Theatre in New
-York, about 1866, doing a singing and dancing specialty.
-
-He played the usual variety engagements until November 1, 1869, on
-which date he joined Newcomb’s Minstrels in Washington, D. C. The
-following year, September 5, he formed a partnership with George
-Powers, doing a high kicking song and dance, starting with Hooley’s
-Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y.; when that company opened in Chicago,
-January 2, 1871, Mr. Johnson was with them, and continued for several
-months.
-
-August 26, 1872, he opened with Birch, Wambold and Backus’ Minstrels
-in New York, and except during the season of 1874-75, when he was with
-Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, he was with them until
-1882.
-
-In the Summer of 1880 he played a brief engagement with Moore and
-Burgess’ Minstrels in London, England. Subsequently he played
-engagements with Courtright and Hawkin’s Minstrels, in Philadelphia;
-Emerson’s, in San Francisco, and Haverly’s in Chicago; it was here in
-the Summer of 1883 that Johnson and Powers dissolved partnership. Mr.
-Johnson later played with Haverly, in Europe, after which he returned
-to America, and with Charley Reed gave a fine minstrel performance in
-San Francisco, opening August, 1884, and remaining until July following.
-
-On July 30, 1885, he became one of the proprietors of McNish, Johnson
-and Slavin’s Minstrels, opening on that date at Paterson, N. J.; the
-organization was in existence for three seasons. Johnson and Slavin’s
-Minstrels took the road in 1888; the partnership was dissolved in June,
-1889.
-
-September 9, following, Mr. Johnson began a starring tour in white
-face, appearing in “The Fairy’s Well”; he was with this company two
-seasons, and the next two years in “The Gossoon,” and the “Irish
-Statesman” respectively.
-
-In 1893 with George Thatcher he organized, and conducted, for two years
-Thatcher and Johnson’s 20th Century Minstrels.
-
-Three years in vaudeville in black and white face was followed by an
-engagement with the William H. West Company of the Primrose and West’s
-Minstrels, there being two companies of that name season of 1897-98.
-
-Mr. Johnson joined West’s Minstrels in 1898, and continued until 1900;
-then three more years of vaudeville, followed by two and a half years
-with Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels.
-
-He was with Dumont’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, season 1909-10. August
-3, 1910, he began an engagement with Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels for the
-season.
-
-Mr. Johnson was married in Boston, Mass., June 15, 1871, and lived
-happily ever after.
-
-Carroll Johnson was born in Carlingford, Ireland, December 16, 1851.
-
-
-TOMMY GRANGER, the “Prince Jockey” as he was sometimes called, from
-the fact that his entrance on the stage was made on a coal black steed
-arrayed in Tod Sloan habiliments (Granger, not the horse) began “acting
-up” in 1861, doing a black-face song and dance at an exceedingly tender
-age, and in black face; this was in Buffalo; “Root Hog or Die” was the
-song used on this auspicious occasion.
-
-But it was as a dancer that Mr. Granger gained fame; and his “Raffle
-for an Eight Day Stove,” is recalled by many a theatre goer of 30
-years ago. His first minstrel engagement was with W. W. Newcomb in
-1865; subsequently he allied himself with such well-known companies as
-Simmons and Slocum’s in Philadelphia; Thatcher, Primrose and West’s and
-the “California” Minstrels; his last engagement with a minstrel company
-was with the Barlow Brothers.
-
-Tom Granger’s Georgia Minstrels in 1878 didn’t conflict with Haverly’s
-Mastodons of the same year.
-
-Tommy Granger was born in Kingston, Canada, August 9, 1851.
-
-
-JOHN MCVICKAR (Harrington), one of the original “Bay State Boys,” who
-did a good clog dancing act, made his first appearance as a member of
-that quartette at the old Howard in Boston, Mass., September 13, 1869.
-They played with the Morris Brother’s Minstrels, also with Dougherty,
-Wild, Barney and Mac’s Minstrels in the Hub.
-
-The four disbanded in 1871. About 1883 Mr. McVickar went to Lothrop’s
-Theatre in Boston, as manager, later going to the Howard, where he
-continued until about 1904.
-
-John McVickar died in Boston, Mass., May 24, 1909.
-
-
-SEAMON S. PETTITT made his first professional appearance at the age of
-nine years.
-
-His first partner was James Sharpley; subsequently with Tommy Moore
-they worked as Masters Tommy and Willie. In 1871 Pettitt, Phillips and
-White formed an alliance which continued one year, after which Pettitt
-and White did a double song and dance until the death of Mr. Pettitt.
-
-He had been with Skiff and Gaylord’s Minstrels and other well known
-companies. During the Summer season he acted as singing clown in the
-circus.
-
-Mr. Pettitt was born October 6, 1851; he died at Taylorsville, Pa.,
-August 10, 1880.
-
-
-TOMMY WINNETT made his first appearance in 1864 at the Canterbury
-Music Hall. In 1866 he formed a partnership with Charley Holly, and as
-Winnett and Holly they continued until July 10, 1868.
-
-Mr. Winnett has been associated with the following well-known minstrel
-companies--“Campbell’s”; Sam Sanford’s; Kunkel’s “Nightingale’s”; Skiff
-and Gaylord’s; Hooley’s, in Brooklyn, and Welch, Hughes and White, same
-city.
-
-Mr. Winnett won a medal in Mobile, Ala., for his dancing, and a silver
-cup in Memphis, Tenn.
-
-For twenty-five years he traveled with his wife, as Tom and Lottie
-Winnett. His last professional appearance was in Chicago, at the
-Olympic Theatre, in 1898.
-
-Tommy Winnett was born in New York, May 25, 1851.
-
-
-THE GORMAN BROTHERS, or the three Gorman boys, as they are invariably
-spoken of, are synonymous with all that is best in minstrelsy; for
-these gentlemen had the schooling on the variety and minstrel stage
-that the present generation of performers never may hope to attain.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- TOMMY GETTINGS
-
- DICK SLITER
-
- BILLY ALLEN
-
- MIKE KANANE
-
- BOBBY NEWCOMB
-
- BILLY SHEPPARD
-
- WASH. NORTON
-
- TIM. HAYES
-
- WALLY THOMAS
-
-DAISY DANCERS OF MANY DECADES.]
-
-Gifted with natural talents that place them on the highest plane in
-their profession, they used these to the best advantage, and thus hold
-the enviable positions they occupy to-day.
-
-James Gorman, or “Jim” as we all love to call him, was the first of
-the trio to make his professional entrée, which he did with Hooley’s
-Minstrels in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn, N. Y.; the theatre
-is now known as the Novelty; the date, February, 1869.
-
-Mr. Gorman’s salary was seventy-five cents per night, most of which he
-has since squandered.
-
-In 1872 brother John joined brother Jim, and as the Gorman Brothers
-made their first joint appearance at the Bowery Theatre, in New York.
-
-Three years later little Georgie joined his brothers, then and there
-creating a trade-mark which subsequently became prominent all over the
-country.
-
-Several years were spent in the principal variety houses, and on
-October 21, 1878, at the Adelphi Theatre in Chicago, they made their
-appearance with the newly organized Haverly’s Mastodon Minstrels, at
-the initial performance of that famous organization.
-
-The brothers continued with Haverly mostly until 1883, when in
-conjunction with Gorton’s Minstrels, Gorman Bros.’ Royal Pantomime
-Company toured the country for several months.
-
-In the Summer of 1884 they rejoined Haverly at the Drury Lane Theatre,
-London, England, playing there ten weeks; after which they made a
-tour of the provinces, and returned to the United States, opening in
-Cincinnati, Ohio, at Heuck’s Opera House, March 18, 1885.
-
-They remained under the Haverly banner until they organized their own
-company, the Gorman Bros.’ Minstrels, giving their first performance
-August 24, 1887; they continued as an organization for six consecutive
-seasons.
-
-In 1893 they played with Primrose and West’s “Monte Carlo” Company. The
-“boys” next appeared with the “Gilhooley’s Abroad,” as the vehicle for
-their talents; they continued with this for three seasons.
-
-Subsequently they produced “Mr. Beane, from Boston,” which ran for two
-seasons.
-
-In August, 1906, the Gorman Brother’s Minstrels again took the field,
-but owing to gross mismanagement, did not continue as long as the
-artistic merits of the organization justified it in doing. As a
-production, this company was an event in minstrelsy.
-
-We are wont to speak of the Gormans as dancers; and of James, as a
-producer; but the versatility of these “youths” know no bounds.
-
-John and George are comedians of high degree, as attested by their
-success with Marie Dressler, in “Tillie’s Nightmare” at the Herald
-Square Theatre, New York, during the Summer of 1910; and they have many
-other successes to their credit.
-
-George Gorman is conceded to be one of the world’s greatest dancers.
-And John, the altitudinous one, excels as a character comedian. Such in
-brief, are the careers of the “Gentlemanly Gormans.”
-
-James Gorman was born in New York City, August 23, 1852.
-
-John Gorman was born in New York City, November 4, 1855.
-
-George Gorman was born in New York City, December 16, 1864.
-
-
-WM. F. HOLMES, the favorite baritone vocalist, began his professional
-career at an early age with the Caroline Richings Troupe.
-
-He was with several prominent minstrel companies, notably Thatcher and
-Ryman in Philadelphia in 1881, and McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s, with
-whom he was at the time of his death in Boston, Mass., December 10,
-1886. He was 34 years of age.
-
-
-CHARLES BRICKWOOD (Brickett), well known as a comedian and banjoist,
-entered the profession about 1875. He had been successfully identified
-with the minstrel companies of Whitmore and Clark’s; I. W. Baird’s and
-George Irving’s California Minstrels. In 1878 he was with Washburn’s
-Last Sensation.
-
-For several years he had played Uncle Tom in a most acceptable manner;
-he had likewise played Marks, also in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” Mr.
-Brickwood was a brother of the late Mayor of Haverhill, Mass., and
-a man of unusual intelligence. Charles Brickwood died at Haverhill,
-Mass., October 22, 1900; age 48 years.
-
-
-EVERETT WESLYN joined Frank Casey about 1872 in a musical act, and
-continued with him until his (Weslyn’s) death.
-
-He was with Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, in 1877;
-subsequently with Haverly’s Mastodons.
-
-He died in St. Louis, Mo., November 8, 1879; age 27 years.
-
-
-FOX AND WARD--To Fox and Ward belong the enviable distinction of having
-existed as partners (perhaps we should say theatrical associates), for
-a longer period than that of any other team; active partners is the
-term meant. Their initial joint appearance was in Cincinnati in 1868.
-
-Early in 1870 they played their first minstrel engagement with Dan
-Shelby’s Company, and the same year they joined Duprez and Benedict’s
-Minstrels, and were features of this famous organization until 1879,
-when they joined Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s Minstrels.
-
-Subsequently they were with the Skiff and Gaylord Company, and in
-September, 1882, Fox and Ward’s Minstrels made their first appearance.
-
-In 1884 they were members of Haverly’s Minstrels.
-
-In 1886 they played with Lester and Allen’s Minstrels, and two years
-later returned to Haverly.
-
-In 1890 they traveled with George Arlington’s Minstrels.
-
-Fox and Ward eschewed minstrelsy for several years, when in 1897 they
-played their third engagement with Haverly.
-
-Again deserting their burnt cork friends, they played vaudeville and
-combination dates for a few seasons. They joined Dumont’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia in 1905, and the major portion of the intervening time has
-been since spent with that notable organization.
-
-Joseph Fox (Monahan), was born in Ogdensburg, N. Y., May 7, 1852.
-
-William H. Ward (Marvin Morton Mallison), was born in Canandaigua, N.
-Y., September 17, 1852.
-
- * * * * *
-
-Did it ever occur to you that of the many minstrel companies of the
-past in which two or more headed the organization, the last named
-member of the alliance was the first to pass away?
-
-For example, Skiff and Gaylord; Low. Gaylord was the first to
-die--there are about thirty other such instances.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-GEORGE H. PRIMROSE (Delaney), in addition to being one of the most
-graceful dancers in the profession, is concededly one of its best
-business men; a rare combination in theatrical history.
-
-Mr. Primrose’s career began about 1867 in Detroit, Mich., with
-McFarland’s Minstrels, at which time he was billed as Master Georgie,
-the infant clog dancer; subsequently he joined the New Orleans
-Minstrels.
-
-In the Summer of 1871 he went to Smith’s Opera House, Saginaw, Mich.;
-here he met and formed a partnership with Bobby McGown, and shortly
-afterwards they joined O’Brien’s Circus, where they performed a double
-clog in the concert; at the end of the tent season, Primrose and McGown
-dissolved partnership, and Mr. Primrose went with Skiff and Gaylord’s
-Minstrels; it was here he first met William H. West; late in 1871. A
-few months later they formed a partnership that continued about thirty
-years.
-
-About May 1, 1873, Mr. Primrose and his new partner joined O’Brien’s
-Circus, again playing in the concerts; a little later they played
-their first joint minstrel engagement with Simmons and Slocum in
-Philadelphia, closing with them in the Spring of 1874. That same
-year, November 20, they made their initial appearance with Haverly’s
-Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y.; continuing with them until June 14, 1877;
-two months later Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s Minstrels gave
-their first performance; this was a grand organization; it continued
-until the Summer of 1882.
-
-In conjunction with George Thatcher, Mr. Primrose and his partner
-organized Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Minstrels at Elmira, N. Y.,
-August 3, 1882; this alliance was dissolved at the conclusion of the
-season of 1888-89. In the Summer of 1889, Primrose and West’s Minstrels
-made their initial bow and continued as an organization until April
-30, 1898, when at Milwaukee, Wis., the long partnership that existed
-between Primrose and West dissolved.
-
-Season of 1897-98, Mr. Primrose headed one minstrel company, while Mr.
-West piloted another; both companies being under their joint management.
-
-Beginning in 1898, and continuing until the Spring of 1903, Mr.
-Primrose and Lew Dockstader joined forces, and Primrose and
-Dockstader’s company was the premier minstrel organization until the
-Spring of 1903.
-
-Since that period Mr. Primrose has headed his own organization, with an
-occasional season in vaudeville.
-
-On August 2, 1879, Mr. Primrose married Miss Emma Catlin, at Buffalo,
-N. Y. The first Mrs. Primrose died some years ago. On April 24, 1904,
-he married Miss Esther Nerney, at Mount Vernon, N. Y.
-
-George H. Primrose was born in London, Canada, November 12, 1852.
-
-
-J. MARCUS DOYLE, the accomplished dancer, producer and comedian, made
-his first appearance at a concert hall in Buffalo, N. Y., as boy, in
-the middle 60’s, subsequently joining a circus, and later forming one
-of the team of Baker and Doyle.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- BILLY EMERSON
-
- WM. HENRY RICE
- (1870)
-
- BILLY MANNING
-
-SHINING LIGHTS OF MINSTRELSY.]
-
-His best work was done in minstrelsy, and he was identified with such
-organizations as Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s; Hi Henry’s;
-Cleveland’s and Barlow Brothers.
-
-About 1896 he joined the May Russell Burlesque Company.
-
-J. Marcus Doyle was born in Elyria, Ohio; he died in Buffalo, N. Y.,
-December 23, 1899; age 47 years.
-
-
-HARRY WOODSON (John Archer Shields), considered by many as the greatest
-delineator of the “aged darky” that the stage ever knew, began his
-professional career as an amateur in his native city. His first
-professional engagement was with the Buckley and Morris Minstrels
-singing in character “Old Black Joe.”
-
-September 2, 1878, he began an engagement at Carncross’ Minstrels in
-Philadelphia, and in the Spring of 1881 he played another engagement
-in the same city with Thatcher & Ryman’s Minstrels. Commencing in 1880
-he was one of the proprietors of Woodson and Allen’s Minstrels, which
-made tours off and on until October 28, 1883, when the last performance
-was given at Cynthiana, Ky. Season of 1886-87 he created the part of
-“Rufus,” the old negro in “Held by the Enemy.”
-
-He married Miss Laura Bennett, a well-known star of the old variety
-days; they had one daughter.
-
-Mr. Woodson’s singing of “That Old Gray Mule of Mine” was a classic.
-
-His last engagement was with Cleveland’s Minstrels in 1891.
-
-Harry Woodson was born in Richmond, Va., January 15, 1852; he died at
-Amityville, Long Island, N. Y., August 30, 1898.
-
-
-W. S. BELKNAP, prominent as a bass singer with Haverly’s Mastodon
-Minstrels; Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s and other minstrel
-organizations, died at Louisville, Ky., February 15, 1900; age 48 years.
-
-
-BILLY O’DAY (Geo. F. Day), who excelled as a “rough wench,” commenced
-“acting up” late in 1871 at Frank Wild’s Varieties in Buffalo, N. Y.;
-remained one year at $12 per -- not $12.00 per year; but perhaps you
-have guessed it.
-
-Afterwards he was with Shay’s Quinciplexal Minstrels, and joined Billy
-Wild; known as O’Day and Wild, the “Ebony Kings,” the partnership
-continued two years. He then played variety engagements, and was three
-years at Harry Enoch’s in Philadelphia.
-
-In 1890 O’Day and Jerry Cunningham were partners, and remained so for
-one year. Mr. O’Day has since that time played white- and black-face
-characters in several prominent dramatic organizations, including
-Rufus, in “Held by the Enemy” and Decatur in “Alabama,” not forgetting
-Uncle Tom in the latter’s Cabin.
-
-I most forgot to say that about 1873 Mr. O’Day appeared as “Master
-Willie” with the San Francisco Minstrels in New York, and sang “There’s
-A Letter In The Candle.”
-
-Mr. O’Day was married at Johnstown, Pa., October 13, 1892, to Miss Mary
-Eagel, a non-professional.
-
-Billy O’Day was born April 1, 1852, in Brooklyn, N. Y.; that’s no joke.
-
-
-THE REYNOLDS BROTHERS were a well-known and popular song and dance
-team. As early as 1865 as the “Utica Boys” they were with Burgess,
-Prendergast, Hughes and Donniker’s Minstrels; the year following with
-Burgess and La Rue’s Minstrels.
-
-They joined M. C. Campbell’s company in 1867, and subsequently appeared
-with Emerson and Manning’s; Emerson’s, and Arlington, Cotton and
-Kemble’s Minstrels; the latter in 1872. After the death of his brother
-Charles, George Reynolds appeared for a short time with Charley Cogill
-as Cogill and Reynolds.
-
-
-CHARLES REYNOLDS was born in Utica, N. Y., in 1852; he died in San
-Francisco, Cal., January 7, 1878. GEORGE REYNOLDS died in New York
-City, March 4, 1895.
-
-
-TOMMY TURNER (Trainor) was one of the Three Turner Brothers, and well
-known as a banjoist.
-
-He was the husband of Lulu Francis, and had been in the profession
-about ten years prior to his death, which occurred in Leadville, Colo.,
-May 31, 1879, at the age of 25 years. Mr. Turner was born in New York,
-September 29, 1854.
-
-
-FRED WALZ, during his comparatively brief career as a vocalist in
-minstrelsy, achieved distinction that has often been denied those of
-more mature years.
-
-His first professional engagement was with Newcomb and Arlington’s
-Minstrels in 1871. In 1872 he was with Moran and Dixey’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia, and subsequently with Frank Moran’s Minstrels.
-
-In 1873 he joined Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels for the season, also
-in the Quaker City. August 31, 1874, he became a member of Bryant’s
-Minstrels in New York, and continued with them until the death of Dan
-Bryant, April 10, 1875, when he almost immediately joined Emerson’s
-California Minstrels in Chicago, and continued with them several weeks.
-
-Subsequently he became a member of Carncross and Dixey’s, and later
-Carncross’ Minstrels in Philadelphia, where he remained until his death.
-
-Fred Walz was born in Philadelphia about 1852; he died there September
-7, 1884.
-
-
-JAMES H. CUMMINGS was one of minstrelsy’s best dancers. He formed a
-partnership with John P. Hogan late in 1871, and played an engagement
-at Moran and Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, terminating about
-February 1, 1872.
-
-Later his partner was W. H. Delehanty, whom he joined August 23, 1875;
-the alliance lasted about fifteen months.
-
-Mr. Cummings subsequently did an act with Harry Orndorf while with
-the Emily Soldene Company, where he remained two seasons. He left the
-profession for a time, and embarked in business in Indianapolis, Ind.
-
-Mr. Cummings married one of the Stanley Sisters, well known performers
-of three decades ago. James H. Cummings was born in Rochester, N. Y.;
-he died in San Francisco, February 15, 1889; age 37 years.
-
-
-WELBY AND PEARL are not exactly the pioneers of song and dance teams,
-but they have been associated as partners since 1874, which is enough
-to make them qualify.
-
-They have been with several first-class organizations, including Al. G.
-Field’s Minstrels, with whom they were with in 1899; subsequently they
-joined Gorton’s Minstrels, and continued with them almost to date. Mr.
-Pearl, of recent years, was manager of the company.
-
-Jake Welby (Bucher), was born October 13, 1852, at Syracuse, N. Y.
-
-Charles C. Pearl (Fell), was born in West Chester, Pa., December 4,
-1858.
-
-
-DAN COLLYER (McAnerny), the well known comedian of Broadway fame, was
-one of the Collyer Brothers as early as 1872, doing black-face acts.
-Doesn’t look it, does he? November 16, 1889, he opened in New York with
-“Running Wild,” in which he played the wench.
-
-In the stock with Pastor’s Company, likewise Harrigan and Hart’s,
-he essayed many black-face roles; he also did vaudeville with Add.
-Ryman--and there were others, notably Dockstader’s Minstrels in New
-York, December, 1888. Mr. Collyer was born in Baltimore, Md., March,
-1853.
-
-
-FRANK MCNISH (Francis Edward McNish), like the good American that he
-is, began his theatrical career on July 4, the year, 1873. Garry Doon
-shared the honors.
-
-He first appeared professionally April 16, 1877, in Buffalo, N. Y., at
-the Adelphi.
-
-August 21, 1878, he joined Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s
-Minstrels, continuing with them until February 21, 1879. Mr. McNish
-later formed an alliance with the Leland Sisters, and played variety
-engagements with much success for about three years, after which he
-joined Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Minstrels, August 3, 1882, and was
-a feature with them for three years.
-
-Mr. McNish was now ripe for stellar honors, and accordingly on July 30,
-1885, the first performance of McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s Minstrels
-was given in Paterson, N. J.; the organization continued three years,
-after which McNish, Ramza and Arno’s Minstrels did appear--and
-disappear.
-
-Mr. McNish was with Al. G. Field’s Minstrels in 1892, and with Hi Henry
-in 1895--and there were others.
-
-Also did he “star” in “An Actor’s Romance” or “An Actor’s Holiday,” the
-author forgets which; however, the tour was neither a romance nor a
-holiday.
-
-January 4, 1887, Meriden, Conn., had the honor of being the first city
-of witnessing Mr. McNish’s appearance as an end man.
-
-Most everybody knows that Frank McNish was the originator of the
-Silence and Fun specialty that made him famous, and which has been
-extensively copied by other performers. In addition to being a good
-dancer, he is also a good singer; originally a plumber, Mr. McNish
-always has his pipes in good working order.
-
-An early partner was Edward Gildea; the latest were Joe. Penfield and
-Frank McNish, Jr.
-
-Frank McNish was born in Camden, N. Y., December 14, 1853.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- BILLY LYONS
-
- FRED. MALCOLM
-
- CHAS. HEYWOOD
-
- JUSTIN ROBINSON
-
- THE GREAT “EUGENE”
-
- ERNEST LINDEN
-
- LINCOLN ELLWOOD
-
- BURT. SHEPARD
-
- PAUL VERNON
-
-FAMED FAVORITES WHO FEATURED FEMININE FANCIES--SECOND EDITION.]
-
-
-GUS MILLS achieved considerable popularity as a female impersonator
-with Simmons, Slocum’s and Sweatnam’s Minstrels in Philadelphia;
-Dockstader’s in New York, as well as Emerson’s and other well known
-organizations; he died in Chicago, Ill., October 6, 1903; age about 55
-years.
-
-
-JOHNNY MACK entered the profession at an early age. He had as partners
-at various times Johnny Gardner, Billy Conway and Lew Dockstader. With
-the latter he played with Whitmore and Clark’s Minstrels in 1874, as
-Mack and Clapp.
-
-He died at Hoosick Falls, N. Y., February 28, 1891; age 38 years.
-
-
-WILLIE (WM. H.) GUY was the first of the Guy boys to enter minstrelsy,
-making his initial appearance with Hooley in Brooklyn, N. Y., about
-1863; the following year he was with M. C. Campbell’s Minstrels in New
-York.
-
-Subsequently he joined his brother George, and as George and Willie
-Guy became quite popular at Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, where they
-remained for a considerable time.
-
-The next few years he was with the minstrel organization of Kelly and
-Leon; Moore and Burgess, Harry Robinson’s, Welch, Hughes and White;
-Smith and Taylor’s, and George Christy’s.
-
-In 1874 he became a member of Guy Brother’s Minstrels, and as such
-continued practically until his death. Mr. Guy ranked high as a song
-and dance performer and comedian.
-
-Willie Guy was born in Hartford, Conn., October 16, 1853; he died in
-Springfield, Mass., February 26, 1906.
-
-
-RICHARD GOLDEN (Frank Golden), whose fame as “Old Jed Prouty” will long
-live, did a black-face song and dance with Lew Davis (later Chace and
-Davis), in the late 60’s; he was also with Sharpley’s Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Golden was born in Bangor, Me., February 6, 1853; he died in
-Brooklyn, N. Y., August 10, 1909.
-
-
-HARRY M. MORSE. It would be a difficult matter to say off-hand whether
-this gentleman is best known as a minstrel or as a delineator of “rube”
-characters; in the one he has been associated with several famous
-organizations; in the other he is as readily recalled by several well
-remembered characterizations.
-
-He first appeared professionally with Rice’s “Evangeline” in 1877,
-where his splendid bass voice was used as a member of a quartette.
-
-In 1881 he played his initial minstrel engagement with the Haverly
-Mastodons; the following year with the new Mastodons saw his first
-appearance as “middle man.”
-
-In 1883 he was with Sam Hague’s Minstrels, under the Haverly
-management. Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Minstrels had him for a
-member in 1884, and the following season he was with the inaugural
-performance of McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s Minstrels, and remained
-with them until the dissolution of the company at Washington, D. C.,
-May 19, 1888.
-
-Right here Mr. Morse’s inherent Yankeeism asserted itself; carefully
-sealing up his box of cork, he placed it in storage, and went in for
-“rube” characters exclusively.
-
-From 1888 to 1892 he played Zeb in “Old Jed Prouty”; Mr. Morse was
-great in this character; so was the wig.
-
-“Rush City”; Pete Dailey’s “Country Sport”; Joe Hart’s “Gay Old Boy”
-and four years as the Giant in “Jack, the Giant Killer,” followed; a
-return to “Old Jed Prouty” and Mr. Morse began to repent.
-
-Primrose’s Minstrels, Dockstader’s Minstrels and Cohan and Harris’
-Minstrels, the latter in 1908, followed the repentance.
-
-Now Mr. Morse is showing his “rube” to vaudeville lovers--and they seem
-to like it.
-
-Taken all in all, Putnam, Conn., may well feel proud of its
-distinguished citizen.
-
-Harry M. Morse was born in Woodstock, Conn., August 4, 1853.
-
-
-FRANK CUSHMAN (Peter Clishman) was one of the very best singing
-comedians of minstrelsy; he possessed a peculiar voice, and could reach
-high C with ease.
-
-At the outset of his career he gave impersonations of the old colored
-man, which ever after he made a feature of his repertoire; in these
-delineations he was exceptionally clever.
-
-He made his first appearance with Professor John Hammond’s Company at
-Havre de Grace, Md., in 1874; subsequently he joined Tommy Jefferson’s
-company, where his success was pronounced.
-
-After this he went to the Odeon Theatre in Baltimore, remaining a year;
-likewise he played stock engagements at the Grand Central Theatre,
-Philadelphia, and other houses. His first prominent minstrel engagement
-was with Carncross and Dixey, in Philadelphia.
-
-October 21, 1878, made his appearance at the Adelphi Theatre, Chicago,
-as a member of Haverly’s original Mastodons. He went to England with
-Haverly, opening in London, July 31, 1880; he continued under this
-management for a considerable period.
-
-About 1882 he formed an alliance with the “Only Leon,” playing star
-engagements in the variety houses and minstrel companies; during this
-period they made a trip to Australia, where they played several months;
-they separated in the Spring of 1887.
-
-In the fall of that year he became a member of Sweatnam, Rice
-and Fagan’s Minstrels; he was likewise with Primrose and West’s;
-Cleveland’s, and Al. G. Field’s Minstrels.
-
-In the fall of 1889 with Ned Thomas he organized the Cushman and Thomas
-Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Cushman created the black-face part in the production of “Natural
-Gas”; and in 1898 he was with the last minstrel show Jack Haverly ever
-put out. He was married to the widow of Billy Welch about 1888, and
-they lived very happily together.
-
-His last appearance was at Lexington, Ky., a few days before his death.
-
-Frank Cushman was born in Baltimore, Md., March 11, 1853; he died in
-Louisville, Ky., December 19, 1907.
-
-
-EDWIN FRENCH (Adam Kunz) was one of the great banjoists of minstrelsy.
-
-He made his first appearance in St. Louis, Mo., as Master Eddie with
-Morris and Wilson’s Minstrels.
-
-He next appeared with Green’s “Mocking Bird” Minstrels, and in 1867 was
-with Sam Sharpley’s Company.
-
-Subsequently he played a long engagement with Birch, Wambold and Backus
-in New York City.
-
-He was also with Carncross in Philadelphia; Moore and Burgess in
-London, England, and Dockstader in New York. In 1882 he was with
-Leavitt’s Giganteans; and likewise played an important engagement with
-Haverly’s Minstrels.
-
-Edwin French was born in Cleveland, Ohio, January 31, 1853; he died at
-Saranac Lake, N. Y., September 16, 1903.
-
-
-BURT. HAVERLY (Geo. Burton Oliver), the favorite minstrel and farceur,
-began in Boston at an early age with a minstrel company headed by
-the late Andy Leavitt; Mr. Haverly’s vocal offering on this occasion
-was--“And His Feet Hung Out the Door.”
-
-In 1881 he was with Billy Emerson in San Francisco, a place where
-Haverly loved above all others; in this city he was highly thought of,
-personally and as a performer.
-
-It was in 1879 that he attained his first prominence as a member of
-Hooley and Emerson’s “Megatherian” Minstrels.
-
-In the middle and late 80’s he was with McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s,
-and Johnson and Slavin’s Minstrels.
-
-Shortly after leaving the last company, he went into white-face with
-the “City Directory”; subsequently, with Laura Biggar, he was co-star
-in “A Trip to Chinatown,” for several seasons.
-
-Mr. Haverly married Miss Nellie Carter, in San Jose, Cal., February 21,
-1882.
-
-In New York, on March 21, 1901, he married Mme. Dowling.
-
-Burt. Haverly was born in Saccarappa, Me., August 12, 1853; he died in
-San Francisco, Cal., October 31, 1908.
-
-
-HAWKINS AND COLLINS. This great black-face singing act made their first
-joint appearance at the Garden Theatre in Chicago, Ill., in the Fall of
-1882.
-
-They played successful minstrel engagements with Carncross’ in
-Philadelphia; Thatcher, Primrose and West’s; Haverly’s and Hyde
-and Behman’s Company, as well as several first-class specialty
-organizations.
-
-They continued as a team until the death of Ben Collins.
-
-Lew Hawkins made his first professional appearance as a jig dancer in
-the Winter Garden, Chicago, Ill., in 1873; he worked in white-face, his
-weekly stipend was $6.00; he gets more now.
-
-He went to San Francisco from Chicago, played all the variety houses
-on the way back three years later, and opened with Ed. Hodson, again
-in Chicago, at the Coliseum, where they did a Dutch act; a year later
-he separated from Hodson and joined J. W. Kelly, who afterwards won
-fame as the “Rolling Mill Man”; Mr. Hawkins’ claims, and he undoubtedly
-is correct when he asserts that he first brought Kelly before the
-public as a professional entertainer; this was in August, 1878, at the
-Cosmopolitan (present Olympic) Theatre in Chicago; they separated in
-1882, and Mr. Hawkins joined Collins.
-
-Since the death of the latter, Lew Hawkins has worked alone doing a
-black-face monologue and singing act; he is known as the “Chesterfield
-of Minstrelsy.”
-
-[Illustration:
-
- “COOL” WHITE
-
- “COOL” BURGESS
-
-A PAIR OF “COOL” PROPOSITIONS.
-
- “ADD.” RYMAN
-
- “ADD.” WEAVER
-
-NOT A CASE OF ADDITION.
-
- FRANK WILD
-
- JOHN WILD
-
-WILD, BUT NOT DANGEROUS.]
-
-Lew Hawkins was born in Hudson, Mich., August 20, 1853.
-
-Ben Collins was born in Chicago, Ill.; he died in Boston, Mass., March
-20, 1890; age 31 years.
-
-
-WM. H. WEST (Flynn), famous as a great clog dancer and producer,
-and for many years associated with George H. Primrose in their many
-minstrel organizations, made his first appearance in a variety theatre
-in Buffalo, N. Y., August 20, 1870; the following year he joined
-Skiff and Gaylord’s Minstrels, where he made the acquaintance of
-George H. Primrose, and shortly after this they made their first joint
-appearance, playing variety theatres, and continuing with Mr. Primrose
-for many years.
-
-November 20, 1874, he joined Haverly’s Minstrels, and remained with
-them until June 14, 1877.
-
-On Aug. 20, same year, with his partner, Milt. G. Barlow and George
-Wilson, they gave the first performance of Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and
-West’s Minstrels; the last in the Summer of 1882.
-
-That same year Mr. West, Mr. Primrose and George Thatcher, organized
-Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Minstrels; they gave their final
-performance in the Summer of 1889.
-
-From 1889 until April 30, 1898, Primrose and West’s Minstrels took the
-road; the last season (1897), Mr. West headed his own company, Mr.
-Primrose another.
-
-In the Summer of 1898, William H. West’s Big Jubilee Minstrels gave
-their first performance, and he continued with his company until within
-a few months of his death.
-
-Mr. West was thrice married; his first wife was Fay Templeton, the
-well-known actress whom he married about 1883; they separated soon
-after. His second wife was Miss Lizette Morris, of Philadelphia, a
-daughter of our former Minister to Turkey; on October 27, 1892, he
-married Miss Emma Hanley, the well-known actress of light opera fame.
-
-Mr. West sat in the middle with his various companies, his style of
-interlocutor being different from any of his predecessors.
-
-William H. West was born in Syracuse, N. Y., June 18, 1853; he died in
-Chicago, Ill., February 15, 1902.
-
-
-EMERSON AND CLARK were a favorite song and dance team of the middle
-70’s; they appeared in the well-known variety houses, and in 1877 they
-played an engagement with Cal. Wagner’s Minstrels; in the fall of the
-same year they associated themselves with the Daly Brothers, Tom and
-Bill. The four took a European tour and later were with Hooley and
-Emerson’s Megatherian Minstrels, in 1879.
-
-Mr. Emerson married Julia Emmonds, and as Emerson and Emmonds they
-played the variety houses; in the course of time the act received an
-addition, and as Emerson, Emmonds and Emerson they were well known.
-
-Mr. Emerson also did a black-face specialty with James Cook, of the
-present team of Cook and Lorenz; this was with Barlow, Wilson and
-Rankin’s Minstrels about 1885.
-
-After their separation, Mr. Clark published “Willis Clark’s Joke Book,”
-which met with indifferent success.
-
-Mort. Emerson was born in Philadelphia, November 27, 1853.
-
-Willis Clark died (suicide) in New York City, December 23, 1899; age 42
-years.
-
-
-THE DALY BROS. Tom Daly’s early partner was Bob Birdue; they played
-an engagement at the Howard Athenaeum in Boston, where they met with
-pronounced success; subsequently he was joined by his brother Bill.
-
-In April, 1871, as Master Willie and Tommy, they did their specialties
-with Newcomb and Arlington’s Minstrels in New York City; season of
-1875 they played Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia; the
-next year they were with Haverly, and after the conclusion of that
-engagement the brothers joined Emerson and Clark, and the four were
-known as the King High Kickers.
-
-The Dalys were brothers of the lamented Dan Daly; and Tom Daly’s second
-wife was Lizzie Derious, the well-known soubrette, now Mrs. Sam Tuck.
-
-Tom Daly was a man of exemplary habits; his death was the result of a
-brutal assault received in Chicago a few years previous to it.
-
-Bill Daly, or “Cap. Bill” as he is best known, has not appeared
-professionally in several years.
-
-Tom Daly was born at Bathurst, N. B., in 1855; he died at Somerville,
-Mass., July 20, 1892.
-
-
-ORIGINAL BIG FOUR--LESTER-ALLEN-SMITH-WALDRON.
-
-BILLY LESTER (Albert Manasse) made his first appearance as a clog
-dancer with Sam Colville’s Variety Company, at the age of 13.
-
-His first partner was John Turner, and as Turner and Lester they played
-the principal variety houses, also an engagement with Simmons and
-Slocum’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, in 1874.
-
-About October 1, 1875, he formed a partnership with Paul Allen, and in
-the fall of 1876 the team consolidated with Smith and Waldron; this was
-the original Big 4.
-
-February 28, 1878, saw the first performance of Billy Emerson’s and
-the Big 4 Minstrels; which continued several months; Lester and Allen
-joined Tierney and Cronin, and were known as the 4 Aces; this, however,
-was not the original act of that title.
-
-About 1884 Lester and Allen’s Minstrels took the road, and continued as
-an organization for three years.
-
-Shortly after this they appeared in “A Plug Hat”; later Mr. Lester
-separated from Mr. Allen.
-
-Mr. Lester’s first wife was Viola Clifton, whom he married in 1876.
-November 24, 1887, he became the husband of Annie Hart.
-
-Billy Lester was born in London, England; he died at Fair Haven, N. J.,
-July 11, 1893; age 40 years.
-
-
-PAUL ALLEN (Kayser) joined Billy Lester in 1875, and while the major
-portion of his professional career was identified with Lester’s, it was
-not entirely so.
-
-In 1880, with Dan Waldron, William Smith and Master Martin the Big 4
-Minstrels were on the road.
-
-After separating from Mr. Lester, he did a black-face monologue, and as
-“Mayor of the Ohio River” met with unqualified success.
-
-Mr. Allen married Louise Montague (Laura Keene Stewart) at San
-Francisco, in 1877.
-
-Paul Allen was born in Baltimore, Md.; he died in New York City,
-February 23, 1896; age 43 years.
-
-
-WILLIAM SMITH associated himself with Dan Waldron in the middle 70’s,
-doing black-face songs and dances. In 1876 Smith and Waldron joined
-Lester and Allen, and were associated about three years.
-
-In 1879 the Big 4 consisted of Smith, Waldron, Morton and Martin, and a
-year later it was Smith, Allen, Morton and Martin.
-
-In 1898 with Haverly’s Minstrels, the Big 4 was Smith, Waldron, Daly
-and Martin; and at the time of his (Smith’s) death, it was Smith,
-Waldron, Peasley and Martin.
-
-Mr. Smith was the brother of Helene Smith, the beautiful danseuse of a
-generation ago.
-
-William Smith died (suicide) in New York City, April 16, 1900.
-
-
-DAN WALDRON (McQuinny), the last of the original Big Four, joined
-William Smith in a black-face song and dance act about 1875, and
-continued a member of the various combinations of “Big 4’s” longer than
-any of his associates.
-
-After severing relations with them he appeared with many prominent
-minstrel companies, notably George Thatcher’s, and Haverly’s
-(Nankeville’s) Minstrels.
-
-Dan Waldron was born in New York City; he died April 1, 1905, at
-Washington, D. C.; age 47 years.
-
- * * * * *
-
-They tell this one about the famous Billy Manning--Manning’s Company
-and that of Dan Bryant met on one occasion on the road; in the course
-of the conversation it turned out that Bryant’s Company was to
-follow Manning’s in at a certain town; Dan Bryant requested Manning
-to “announce” the coming of his (Bryant’s) troupe; which of course,
-Manning promised to do.
-
-About ten days later the minstrels met again, and Manning informed
-Bryant that he (Manning), had played the previous evening in the town
-already referred to.
-
-Did you “announce” me said Dan? I was just going to, said Manning, when
-the _fellow_ got up and went out.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-BILLY BRYANT (Wm. Thos. Hanson). Who among theatre-goers of twenty
-years ago who recall Bryant & Richmond in the act “Imprisoned,” cannot
-see Billy Bryant as he carefully felt the topmost portion of his
-anatomy, ruefully exclaiming--“O! my coco.” That was comedy.
-
-Bryant’s career began in 1868 with the Walter Bray Company, where he
-joined hands with Arthur Hegeney, under the team name of Hanson and
-Hegeney. It was Bray that suggested a change, and forthwith Hanson
-became Bryant, in honor of Dan Bryant, and Hegeney was thereafter known
-as Williams, after the famous Barney Williams, whose early days were
-spent in minstrelsy.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- LEW DOCKSTADER
-
- P. J. NILES
-
- CHAS. DOCKSTADER
-
- WILL OAKLAND,
- The Famous Contra Tenor
-
- CHAS. E. EVANS
-
- DOCKSTADER BROS. (1879)
-
- NILES & EVANS (1878)]
-
-Bryant and Williams played the best variety houses in the country until
-1876, when he married Lizzie Richmond, and as Bryant & Richmond they
-gave “Imprisoned” for many years; afterwards they produced “Keep it
-Dark”; for seven seasons they played it with much success.
-
-Alice Hanson, an unusually clever and vivacious soubrette, is his
-daughter.
-
-Billy Bryant was born in Platteville, Wis., October 12, 1853; he died
-at Chicago, Ill., July 22, 1902.
-
-
-BOB SLAVIN was one of the most brilliant comedians in the minstrel
-firmament; a natural wit; a great entertainer.
-
-About 1874 he did a specialty with George Nelson; and a year or so
-later he doubled with “Buck” Sheffer; the partnership continued about
-two years. Subsequently he appeared with unqualified success with
-Haverly’s, the San Franciscos, and Emerson’s, in San Francisco.
-
-In July, 1885, at Paterson, N. J., McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s
-Minstrels gave their first performance; they continued as an
-organization for three seasons; Mr. McNish retiring, Johnson and
-Slavin’s Minstrels took the road; the partnership dissolved in June,
-1889.
-
-July 17, 1890, Mr. Slavin opened for a limited engagement with Wm.
-Henry Rice’s World’s Fair Minstrels, and closed September 2, at Elmira,
-N. Y. September 10, he opened with the Howard Athenaeum Company in
-Troy, N. Y., doing his specialty in white-face; sad to say, this
-engagement lasted only about a month.
-
-Mr. Slavin subsequently appeared with the May Russell Burlesque
-Company. On November 19, 1892, he began an engagement with Crawford
-Brother’s Minstrels in South Bend, Ind.; Mr. Slavin made his last
-appearance with this company about Christmas, the same year, at Toledo,
-Ohio.
-
-Mr. Slavin married Agnes Louise Laurence, a non-professional, in 1878.
-
-Bob Slavin was born in Baltimore, Md., November 28, 1853; he died in
-Toledo, Ohio, December 29, 1892.
-
-
-WILLIAM J. CARROLL, known as a first-class banjoist and negro
-impersonator, came to this country at a very early age, and began
-his professional career while yet in his teens; in 1873 he joined
-William Harris, and as Harris and Carroll remained with him until
-1879; they played various variety engagements. December 20, 1880, he
-joined Thatcher and Ryman’s Minstrels at the Arch Street Opera House,
-Philadelphia, doing his specialty, and sitting on the end, opposite
-George Thatcher; he remained all season. Subsequently he was with
-Primrose and West, and other organizations.
-
-William Carroll was born in Ireland about 1853; he died in Chelsea,
-Mass., January 25, 1896.
-
-
-JOHN F. FIELDS made his first appearance with the San Francisco
-Minstrels in New York City, December, 1865, as a boy vocalist. It was
-in August, 1874, that his professional career began when he formed a
-partnership with Fred Sharpley, who died in 1879.
-
-His next partner was William F. Hoey, later known as “Old Hoss,” the
-team name being Fields and Hoey, doing a black-face musical act. Mr.
-Fields played an engagement with Cal. Wagner’s Minstrels while a member
-of this alliance. In 1878 he formed a partnership with Frank Hanson. As
-the straight man in these acts, Mr. Fields excels, and after thirty-six
-years we find him as good as ever.
-
-At the termination of his partnership with Mr. Hanson in 1885, Mr.
-Fields’ took another partner, the team name of Fields & Hanson was
-retained and is still a valuable trade-mark. Since 1885 “Fields and
-Hanson” have been with Haverley’s Minstrels; Cleveland’s Minstrels,
-Gus. Hill, Hyde’s Comedians and Reilly & Woods Company; and for five
-years he had on tour Fields & Hanson’s Drawing Cards.
-
-Mr. Fields and his present partner are now in vaudeville.
-
-Jno. F. Fields was born in Newark, N. J., October 17, 1853.
-
-
-FRANK HANSON worked a year with a performer named Billy Phillips, but
-only as amateurs. He left Phillips in 1877, and joined a party by the
-name of Smith, with whom he worked several months, making their first
-appearance at the Boylston Museum. Then came Hanson and Rich, and a
-short time after, the famous team of Fields and Hanson was formed in
-1878.
-
-In 1885 after the team broke up, Mr. Hanson went in the hotel business
-in Boston, in which he has been ever since.
-
-Frank Hanson was born at Ossipee, N. H., March 13, 1860.
-
-
-FIELDS AND HANSON joined hands in 1878, playing variety engagements for
-that season. Seasons of 1879-1880, 1880-81, were spent with Barlow,
-Wilson, Primrose and West, followed by seasons with Leavitt’s All Star
-Specialty Company, and Barry and Fay’s organization. In 1883 they began
-an engagement with the Howard Athenaeum Company, at the conclusion of
-which they played a season of sixteen weeks in the larger cities of
-Europe; returning to the United States, they began their last season as
-a team, with the Howard Athenaeum Company, at the conclusion of which
-in 1885, they separated.
-
-
-MANCHESTER AND JENNINGS worked harmoniously as a team for eighteen
-years, during which period they were associated with some of the best
-minstrel organizations traveling. As a black-face comedy act they were
-among the leaders.
-
-Their first joint appearance was in 1870. About 1874 they joined
-Washburn’s Last Sensation, remaining two seasons.
-
-September 27, 1875, they made their first appearance with Hooley,
-Haverly and Maguire’s Minstrels in Chicago.
-
-Subsequently they were members of Kelly and Leon’s Company, and
-then--and then--unable to wait another day--they launched forth
-Manchester and Jenning’s Minstrels in the Spring of 1878. Without going
-into details, it may be said that the season was a backward one that
-year.
-
-The partnership lasted until the death of Johnny Jennings.
-
-Bobby Manchester made his debut on the stage in 1865 with Newcomb’s
-Minstrels. September 24, 1886, he gave the first performance of
-his “Night Owls” Burlesque Company; since which date he has been
-prominently identified with the burlesque world.
-
-Johnny Jennings was an exceptionally clever dancer; he made his first
-appearance in his native city at old Farrar Hall about 1864. About a
-year later he joined Morris Brothers, Pell and Trowbridge’s Minstrels
-in Erie, and subsequently appeared with them in their Boston theatre.
-He continued with this company for an extended period, part of which
-time as Collins, Queen and Jennings, they did an act called the
-“Alabama Triplets.”
-
-Mr. Jennings is reputed to have been the original skate dancer, in
-which he was marvelously adept.
-
-Bob Manchester (Aaron Mills), was born in Gloversville, N. Y., July 2,
-1853.
-
-John Jennings was born in Erie, Pa., about 1857; he died there,
-November 7, 1888.
-
-
-GEORGE F. CAMPBELL was one of the original members of the Clipper
-Quartette, who made their first appearance at Tony Pastor’s Theatre in
-New York, in 1879.
-
-Subsequently he separated from his partners, and organized a Clipper
-Quartette of his own.
-
-Several years ago Mr. Campbell retired from theatricals, and entered
-the mercantile business, in which he is now engaged.
-
-George F. Campbell was born in Baltimore, Md., March 6, 1853.
-
-
-FRED HUBER was a well-known black-face performer more than thirty
-years ago. In 1878 Huber and “Boots” Allen did a black-face musical
-act; 1879; Huber and Glidden were known as the “Oyster Can Mokes”;
-subsequently he married Kitty Allyne, and for many years Huber and
-Allyne played the principal variety houses. About seven years ago he
-formed a partnership with John King while with the William H. West’s
-(Ricaby’s) Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Huber was also well-known as an excellent “bones” manipulator.
-
-He was several years with Gus Hill in an executive capacity.
-
-Fred Huber was born in St. Louis, Mo.; he died in New York City, April
-3, 1904; age 50 years.
-
-
-FRED OAKLAND (Wright) had the distinction of being one of the leading
-tenors of minstrelsy about twenty years ago. He had a remarkably fine
-cultivated voice which he used mostly in concert work until about 1878,
-when he left England for South Africa, where he played leading tenor
-roles with the Victoria Loftus Troupe and other organizations, visiting
-Ceylon, India and other countries.
-
-About 1883 he came to the United States, and joined Thatcher, Primrose
-and West’s Minstrels, remaining several seasons; subsequently he became
-a member of Primrose and West’s Minstrels, and while with this company
-he formed the acquaintance of William H. Thompson, with whom he joined
-George Thatcher’s “Tuxedo” Company.
-
-With Mr. Thompson he went to England in January, 1895; they remained
-four years; the partnership was then dissolved.
-
-Mr. Oakland married a Miss Stratton, of Swampscott, Mass., in December,
-1887.
-
-Fred Oakland was born in London, England; he died there October 5,
-1900; age 46 years.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- J. C.--HARRINGTON & JOHNSON--ARTHUR
-
- JAS.--CONNORS & KELLY--JAS.
- (Portraits reversed)
-
- ED.--KELLY & O’BRIEN--JOHN
-
- C. W.--COGILL & COOPER--FRED]
-
-
-CHARLES QUEEN (Kane) was one of the best clog dancers in minstrelsy.
-January 26, 1882, at Montreal, Can., he performed for the first time
-in public on a pedestal fifteen inches square and six feet high, on
-which he turned somersaults and flip flops; this was while a member of
-Haverly’s Minstrels.
-
-He was born in St. Louis, in 1854; he died in Kansas City, Mo., June
-29, 1886.
-
-
-THE DIAMOND BROTHERS were well-known as clever song and dance
-performers.
-
-They generally played joint engagements, and at various times had
-been with such well-known minstrel companies as McNish, Johnson and
-Slavin’s, Primrose and West’s, Haverly’s, Big Four, Gorton’s, Hi
-Henry’s, and Al. G. Field’s; with the latter organization they had been
-associated several seasons. A few years prior to their deaths they
-headed their own organization.
-
-Matt. Diamond died at New Castle, Pa., June 14, 1907; age 53 years.
-
-Lawrence Diamond died at New Castle, Pa., December 15, 1906; age 42
-years.
-
-
-CHARLEY YOUNG began young, and is still young. His career commenced at
-the Palace Varieties, Cincinnati, about 1865, as Call Boy, remaining
-two years. Being a natural born dancer, he took the place of Johnny
-Collins when the illness of the latter prevented him from appearing in
-the Challenge Dance, a feature of most variety and minstrel shows of
-the early days.
-
-In 1868 he doubled with Billy Reed, and played variety houses for two
-years; after which he worked single for some time.
-
-In 1875 Tony Pastor sent him to Albany for five nights; he remained two
-years, which was much better than going for two years, and remaining
-but five nights. Mr. Young was so pleased with this two-year engagement
-that he went to Heuck’s in Cincinnati, and played there two years. Then
-came a spell of traveling and a season at Leadville, Colo.
-
-In 1880 he formed a partnership with Sage Richardson, and shortly
-afterwards they joined Cal. Wagner’s Minstrels.
-
-Subsequent minstrel engagements were with Billy Rice and Hooley’s;
-McIntyre and Heath’s, and J. H. Haverly’s; remaining three years with
-the latter.
-
-Other companies were Murray and Murphy, seven years; a four-year
-starring tour in “A Soap Bubble”; four seasons with Bobby Gaylor; in
-conjunction with Charles A. Mason, one season with Gus Hill’s New
-York Stars; and a season each with Nellie McHenry; Edna May; and Ward
-and Vokes. Mr. Young then starred four seasons in melodrama under the
-management of Percy G. Williams.
-
-Charles Young was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, July 3, 1854.
-
-
-BILLY CONWAY (Marble) the well-known comedian, first appeared
-professionally about 1871, with Mart. Healy, known as Healy and Conway;
-this was in his native city; he was with Whitmore and Clark’s Minstrels
-several seasons, where he joined the late Johnny Mack; afterwards
-Healy, Saunders (Ella) and Conway formed an alliance; subsequently he
-rejoined Mack, and they went with I. W. Baird’s Minstrels, where they
-remained about eight seasons. He separated from Mack about three years
-before his (Conway’s death), and appeared with McIntyre and Heath’s;
-Dockstader’s, and Wilson’s Minstrels.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- JAS.--McINTYRE & HEATH--THOS. K.
- (1874)
-
- THE “GEORGIA MINSTRELS”
-
- JAS.--McINTYRE & HEATH--THOS. K.
- (1910)
-
-McINTYRE & HEATH--YESTERDAY, TO-DAY and TO-MORROW.]
-
-Mr. Conway was one of the Four Invincibles--Conway, Mack, Gardner and
-Clark.
-
-His last appearance was in New Haven, Conn., February 29, 1892.
-
-Billy Conway was born in Hartford, Conn.; he died in Boston, Mass.,
-March 8, 1892; age 38 years.
-
-
-McINTYRE and HEATH
-
-are beyond all question the greatest duo of black-face delineators of
-the real Southern darky that the stage ever has or ever will know.
-
-They give an absolutely faithful portrayal of the black man as he
-really exists.
-
-Mr. McIntyre as a pessimistic coon, and Mr. Heath as the colored gemmen
-with pronounced optimistic ideas of life, are excruciatingly funny
-in everything they do; but as the “Georgia Minstrels” their talents
-probably appear to the greatest advantage.
-
-McIntyre and Heath joined hands in San Antonio, Texas, in the Spring of
-1874, at the Vaudeville Theatre. They played many variety and circus
-engagements until the fall of 1878, when they organized McIntyre
-and Heath’s Minstrels. A year later they made their first New York
-appearance at Tony Pastor’s Theatre; their success was instantaneous
-and pronounced.
-
-In the Fall of 1880 they engaged with the Alice Oates Company, playing
-“Long Branch.”
-
-In the Fall of 1881 they again headed their own minstrel organization,
-and the following season McIntyre and Heath’s Specialty Company took
-the road.
-
-In 1883 they were under the management of Hyde and Behman, and the
-following season headed their own company under the direction of
-Primrose and West. In 1886, Spencer, McIntyre and Heath’s Minstrels
-toured.
-
-Their next important minstrel engagement was with Lew Dockstader’s
-Company in 1891. Subsequently they played extended engagements with
-Hyde & Behman’s Company, and Weber and Fields’ organization.
-
-It was with the latter company that their famous “Georgia Minstrels”
-was first produced at the Gayety Theatre, Brooklyn, N. Y., in August,
-1894.
-
-McIntyre and Heath played vaudeville until 1906, when they starred in
-the “Ham Tree,” a big musical production written, around the talents of
-these famous funsters. They continued with that play for three seasons.
-In 1909 they appeared with “In Hayti,” another pretentious musical
-offering, in which they, of course, played black-face parts.
-
-James McIntyre began his professional career at Chicago in the Fall
-of 1868, at Pete Kerwin’s, doing a song and dance in black-face; this
-particular song was called “My Name Was Little Ned.”
-
-The following year he went with Katie Putnam’s Company, where he played
-Willie in “East Lynne,” and did a double clog with Peter Lester it
-is now, but at that time, Peter Johnson. McIntyre and Johnson played
-engagements with McKenzie’s Circus and Burton and Ridgway’s Minstrels
-and a return to Katie Putnam’s Company.
-
-The Minstrels closed at Indianapolis, Ind., in the Winter of 1871, and
-Mr. McIntyre met Billy Fleming, and they decided to become pedestrians;
-they “pedestered” from Indianapolis to Terre Haute, giving performances
-at the various school houses en route.
-
-Evansville, Ind., was the next objective point, after which Mr. Fleming
-became enamoured with Mr. McIntyre’s professional attire, and without
-permission from the latter young man, took them for his own.
-
-* * * Mr. McIntyre’s next engagement was in a livery stable in
-Henderson, Ky., where he remained two months, during which time he
-organized an amateur minstrel company from local talent available; they
-played four nights, the receipts of which were donated to McIntyre to
-get him a new wardrobe, and a ticket to Louisville.
-
-Several of Henderson, Ky’s. most prominent future citizens blacked up
-in that memorable year of 1871, among whom were Jeff. Davis, Harry
-Gilligan, Newton Shaw, John Reichert, Jr., and “Killis” Callender; and
-when thirty-seven years later McIntyre and Heath returned to play an
-engagement in the thrifty Blue Grass City, many of those “minstrels of
-’71” responded to Mr. McIntyre’s invitation to a banquet, and pleasant
-recollections were recalled.
-
-Mr. McIntyre subsequently formed a partnership with Mike Butler, and
-as McIntyre and Butler worked for several months; subsequently William
-Carroll, (afterwards one of the Miaco Brothers), and Mr. McIntyre were
-partners.
-
-In the Spring of 1874 he again joined Butler and continued with him
-until he met Mr. Heath.
-
-Thomas K. Heath first “acted” at Mr. Kit Burns’ Theatorium in New
-York City, 1867; the salary was $12 per week, most of which has been
-invested in real estate at Deer Park, Long Island.
-
-Mr. Heath then learned the trade of book binder, and continued at it
-until he became programmer for Joseph Murphy in “Help”; this was in
-1872. That same year he formed a partnership with George Howard, and as
-Howard and Heath they did a black-face song and dance act, playing the
-many variety theatres, finally landing at San Antonio, Texas, where he
-formed a partnership with Mr. McIntyre.
-
-James McIntyre was born in Kenosha, Wis., August 8, 1857.
-
-Thomas K. Heath was born in Philadelphia, August 11, 1853.
-
-
-AL. DECKER (Ladd) entered the profession about 1873 as partner with
-Walter Gibbs.
-
-A few years later he formed an alliance with Charles H. Yale, doing
-black-face songs and dances, and pantomimic business. He continued with
-Mr. Yale for several seasons, and after the latter branched into the
-managerial field, he also was with him.
-
-Mr. Decker died at Fall River, Mass., January 24, 1898; age 44 years.
-
-
-BILLY WILLIAMS (Carmody) ranked with the best of wench impersonators.
-
-His stage experience began at the age of three years at the Front
-Street Theatre, in Baltimore. Later he did acrobatic work in circuses
-until 1870, when on September 30, that year, he joined Billy Manning’s
-Minstrels in Chicago.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- EDDIE MAZIER
-
- SAM. LEE
-
- EARL BENHAM
-
- HARRY JOLSON
-
- CLARENCE MARKS
-
- ARTHUR GUY
-
-THEY’RE WORKING NOW; THAT’S WHY THEY SMILE.]
-
-He remained with Manning for a long period, and then played the variety
-houses until 1876, when he formed a partnership with William J. Sully,
-and as Williams and Sully did a black-face song and dance act for
-eleven years.
-
-Since which time Mr. Williams did mostly dramatic work. Billy Williams
-was born in New York, July 1, 1854; he died in Elizabeth, N. J., July
-25, 1910.
-
-
-PATSY HOWARD, one of the original “Bay State Boys,” made his first
-appearance as a clog and jig dancer in his native city in 1868, at the
-old Globe Hall.
-
-September 13, 1869, he organized the above act comprising John
-Harrington, Jimmy Fitzpatrick, Henry Drummond and Patsy Howard,
-making their first appearance on that date at the Howard Athenaeum in
-Boston; they remained there five weeks, doing clog dances. After that
-engagement they played two weeks at Morris Brother’s Minstrels in the
-same city. After several variety engagements they returned to their
-native heath and joined Dougherty, Wild, Barney and Mac’s Minstrels.
-The four disbanded in 1871, Mr. Howard forming a partnership with
-Harrington, who took the name of McVickar; Howard that of Sully; they
-were known as McVicker and Sully until they separated in 1873, after
-which he formed an alliance with Billy Sully; this lasted a year. Mr.
-Howard then retired from the profession in 1874, and lived happily ever
-afterwards.
-
-Patsy Howard was born in Boston, Mass., June 26, 1854.
-
-
-GEORGE RICHARDS, the well-known comedian, for many seasons associated
-with the late Eugene Canfield, was a member of Emerson’s Minstrels
-about five years, commencing 1870; he was a regular comic.
-
-Mr. Richards was born in Somerville, Mass., January 3, 1854.
-
-
-MACKIN and WILSON were one of the premier song and dance teams of
-minstrelsy during a period when that style of performance had its
-greatest vogue many years ago.
-
-Jimmy Mackin and Francis Wilson (then known as Frank Wilson) were boys
-in their ’teens when they formed a partnership that lasted for seven
-years; during which time they played engagements with some of the
-foremost minstrel organizations of their day.
-
-Their initial appearance as a team was at the Metropolitan Theatre,
-Indianapolis, Ind., August 7, 1871.
-
-July 1 following, they began a brief engagement with Sam Sharpley’s
-Minstrels.
-
-Their first New York appearance was at the Comique, commencing
-September 16, 1872; they reappeared there October 28, following, after
-which they opened in Chicago with Arlington, Cotton and Kemble’s
-Minstrels, December 2, same year. They remained with the above
-organization the balance of the season, and part of the next one,
-commencing August 26, 1873. September 3, 1874, they began a season’s
-engagement with Birch, Wambold and Backus’ famous San Francisco
-Minstrels in New York, after which they joined Emerson’s Minstrels,
-July, 1875.
-
-Later they were with Hooley, Haverly and Maguire.
-
-They rejoined Emerson’s Company in Detroit, September 30, 1875; January
-13, 1877, they left Emerson; and nine days later became members of
-Sweatnam and Fraser’s Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-There Mackin and Wilson decided to head their own organization, and
-accordingly on the twenty-first day of May, 1877, Mackin and Wilson,
-Sutton and “Bernardo’s” Minstrels left Philadelphia to win fame and
-fortune; they did neither. The thrilling account of the trials and
-tribulations of this little band are best explained in Mr. Wilson’s own
-letter, which will be found elsewhere in this volume.
-
-The name of the company underwent several changes before its
-dissolution in September, 1877; the obsequies were held in Cleveland,
-Ohio.
-
-Mackin and Wilson next engaged with Neil Bryant’s Minstrels in New
-York, opening October 8 following; they closed December 8.
-
-Shortly after this they joined Simmons, Slocum and Sweatnam’s Minstrels
-in Philadelphia, where they remained until the end of the season, May
-11, 1878; this was followed by a supplemental tour, after which Mackin
-and Wilson separated, each going their respective ways.
-
-
-JAMES F. MACKIN was an exceptionally clever clog dancer and good
-performer, when with Tom Sullivan he joined Harry McCarthy’s Minstrels
-in Indianapolis, Ind., September 14, 1870. The team was known as Mackin
-and Sullivan; they continued with the company until it closed, January
-26, 1871.
-
-After separating from Mr. Wilson, he joined the late John D. Griffin in
-New York, doing a black-face song and dance, week of July 1, 1878; he
-continued with Griffin a few weeks, after which he became a member of
-Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s Minstrels; he remained with this
-company until 1881.
-
-Mr. Mackin played various variety engagements after this until his
-death.
-
-
-FRANCIS WILSON first made the acquaintance of burnt cork in his native
-city in the middle 60’s; Mr. Wilson’s parents was not made aware of the
-acquaintance until some time later. It was not all honey, and not all
-jam in those days, as Mr. Wilson will Frankly admit (jest).
-
-It was not until October 29, 1868, that he saw his name in print,
-for it was on that date that the first performance of the “Amateur
-Minstrels” at the Assembly Buildings in Philadelphia was given; the
-entertainment closed with the “Grand Duchess, 2d.” Whether or not Mr.
-Wilson was the Duchess on this august occasion, history does not state.
-
-After severing relations with Mackin, Mr. Wilson entered the ranks of
-the Chestnut Street Theatre Stock Company in Philadelphia, where, on
-September 9, 1878, he played his first part in white-face; that of
-Cool, in “London Assurance.”
-
-He made rapid strides in his new field of endeavor, and continued
-as a member of the stock until February 21, 1880; two days later he
-joined “Our Goblins,” a musical comedy, playing the role of Octavius
-Longfellow Warbler. Subsequently Mr. Wilson purchased an interest in
-the company, and played the more important part of Alfred Comstock
-Silvermine.
-
-August 1, 1881, he began a two weeks’ engagement at the Walnut Street
-Theatre, Philadelphia, as Moe Jewell, in the “World.”
-
-Mr. Wilson afterwards returned to “Our Goblins,” and he also played
-Templeton Fake with Annie Pixley in “M’liss.” His subsequent career in
-light opera and other amusements are too well known to require further
-mention.
-
-Probably no one man in the annals of theatricals has achieved more in
-his chosen profession than Francis Wilson.
-
-When Mackin and Wilson dissolved partnership the team were getting a
-good salary; and when Mr. Wilson applied for a small position in the
-stock company in Philadelphia he was told he would have to begin all
-over again; Mr. Wilson, however, was willing; and the weekly stipend
-was just about 25 per cent. of what he received as a song and dance
-performer. But Francis Wilson had the courage of his convictions, for
-he never considered his minstrel and variety days in any other than a
-school for the talents he later intended to develop.
-
-Mr. Wilson was always a student; and when his companions would invite
-him to participate in their nightly dissipations, he would politely but
-firmly refuse; study was more to his liking.
-
-Francis Wilson is a man of letters; the author of “Reminiscences of a
-Fellow Player,” “Recollections of a Player,” and the comedy in which he
-is now appearing, the “Bachelor’s Baby.”
-
-Likewise did he write the “Life of Jos. Jefferson,” the “Eugene Field I
-Knew,” and contributed several short stories to magazines.
-
-He is co-proprietor with Mrs. Wilson (formerly Miss Myra V. Barrie) of
-the Misses Adelaide and Frances Wilson.
-
-James F. Mackin was born in Providence, R. I.; he died in Sturgis,
-Dak., May 4, 1883.
-
-Francis B. Wilson was born in Philadelphia, February 7, 1854.
-
-
-BILLY GINNIVEN, the well known black-face song and dance performer,
-worked at various times with John E. Henshaw, Charley Gilday, and his
-wife, professionally known as Frankie Lee, whom he married about 1878.
-
-He died in Denver, Colo., January 11, 1879.
-
-
-PETRIE and FISH formed a partnership in 1876, doing a black-face act.
-
-In 1878 they were joined by Connors and Kelly, and as the Original
-Four they met with great success in the United States and Europe. They
-subsequently separated, Mr. Petrie doing an act with his wife in the
-variety houses, billed as Petrie and Elise, in “Passing the Toll Gate.”
-
-In 1896 Mr. and Mrs. Petrie, with their two sons, formed the Four
-Olifans, a grotesque act, which they performed successfully for several
-seasons. Mr. Petrie married Margaret Cockrell in 1880.
-
-Mr. Fish formed one of the team of Fish and Quigg, a “big and little
-act,” and was very successful after separating from Mr. Petrie.
-
-William O. Petrie was born in Lockport, Ill., in 1855; he died in
-Chicago, Ill., May 26, 1901.
-
-Fred C. Fish died in New York, December 8, 1900; age 40 years.
-
-[Illustration: BARLOW, WILSON AND RANKIN’S MINSTRELS.
-
-Frankfort, Ky., 25 Years Ago.]
-
-
-KEATING AND SANDS were one of the earliest and best of black-face
-musical acts.
-
-They formed an alliance in the 70’s, which practically continued until
-Mr. Sands’ death.
-
-They were said to be the first act of their kind to visit Europe; they
-played a two years’ engagement there with Hague’s Minstrels.
-
-Subsequent to the death of Sands, Mr. Keating worked with several
-partners, notably Harry Barton, Harry Leopold and Tom Ardell. He was
-also of the team of Keating and Harris.
-
-John J. Keating died in Boston, Mass., April 26, 1897; age 43 years.
-
-Edw. Sands (Stanstedt) was born in Boston, Mass.; he died there
-February 12, 1887; age 30 years.
-
-
-MURPHY and MORTON were equally as well known in black-face specialties
-as they were in white. They made their first appearance about 1874 with
-Tony Pastor in New York. They played the principal variety houses, and
-were with such well-known minstrel companies as Hooley’s; Thatcher’s,
-in Philadelphia; Emerson’s, in San Francisco; Hooley’s, in Chicago;
-Haverly, same city, and Carncross, in Philadelphia. About 1880, they
-joined forces with Griffin and Rice, and did a “four” act for about
-two seasons. All told, Mr. Murphy has spent about twenty years at
-Carncross’, and half that at Dumont’s Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-He has been also associated with Alf. Gibson, and produced Murphy and
-Gibson’s Minstrels in Atlantic City, N. J., for several years past.
-
-John E. Murphy (DeAngelis) was born in Philadelphia, July 26, 1855.
-
-Jos. Morton (McGarvey) was born in Philadelphia; he died there July 17,
-1884; age 29 years.
-
- * * * * *
-
-The highest salary ever drawn by any black-face team in the history of
-theatricals was paid to McIntyre and Heath.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-THE THREE RANKINS achieved enviable distinction for their musical
-act, which was one of the best. Originally there were four brothers,
-Carl, Will, Rit and Fitch, and they played an engagement with E. M.
-Hall’s Minstrels, opening in Chicago, June 29, 1878. In the Fall of the
-same year Fitch Rankin retiring, the Three Rankins joined Wagner and
-Cotton’s Minstrels for a short season.
-
-The following year with Lew Simmons, they organized Simmons and
-Rankin’s Minstrels, and after the dissolution they re-organized as
-Three Rankin’s Minstrels, opening at Columbus, Ohio, November 27, 1879,
-and closing same date.
-
-December 20, 1880, they joined Kyle’s “Christy” Minstrels in Boston for
-a brief engagement.
-
-After the death of Rit his place was taken by John Mosure, and as the
-“Three Rankins” they played with Leavitt’s Giganteans, in 1882. The
-death of Will broke up the act, and Carl joined Thatcher, Primrose
-and West’s Minstrels July 3, 1885. A few weeks after this he left the
-company to become a partner with George Wilson in his company, which
-was known as Barlow, Wilson and Rankin’s Minstrels.
-
-Carl Rankin’s last appearance was with Lew Dockstader’s permanent
-minstrel company in New York, which he joined in 1887.
-
-Carl Rankin had a superb bass voice, and as a comedian had developed
-into one of the best in minstrelsy. His death was a severe blow to the
-profession.
-
-Rit Rankin died in Columbus, Ohio, December 11, 1881.
-
-Will Rankin died in Philadelphia, January 31, 1885; age 30 years.
-
-Carl Rankin was born in Columbus, Ohio, October, 1859; he died in
-Philadelphia, November 25, 1888.
-
-
-HARRIGAN and HART formed a partnership in the Spring of 1871. Prior to
-this Tony Hart, who was known as Master Anthony Cannon, appeared with
-various minstrel companies as a ballad singer.
-
-February 26, 1872, they began an engagement with Arlington, Cotton
-and Kemble’s Minstrels in Chicago. In later years they each played in
-black-face on several occasions, notably Mr. Harrigan as “Pete.” Mr.
-Hart was probably the best “genteel wench” that ever trod the boards.
-
-Edw. Harrigan was born in New York, October 26, 1845.
-
-Tony Hart (Anthony Cannon) was born in Worcester, Mass., July 25, 1855;
-he died there November 4, 1891.
-
-
-GEORGE ROBERT GUY, the senior member of the famous Guy Family, blacked
-his face for the first time in 1863, and has been successfully
-following his profession ever since; and is now fairly in sight of
-the half-century mark as a minstrel performer. This is a record that
-is probably unique in the annals of minstrelsy; more than forty-seven
-years continuously and exclusively as a black-face performer; and the
-end is not in sight, for those who know, declare George Guy is as alert
-and active as any performer of half his years.
-
-Mr. Guy’s first appearance was in New York in 1863, dressed as a little
-clown; the following week at Newark, N. J., he blacked his face for the
-first time.
-
-About two years later, with his brother Willie, they joined Hooley’s
-Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y., remaining several months, subsequently
-playing an engagement with Geo. Christy’s in New York.
-
-October 1, 1866, they were at the opening performance of Kelly and
-Leon’s Minstrels in New York, where Mr. Guy and his brother soon after
-produced for the first time on any stage, Mr. Guy claims, a “boy and
-girl” duet, portraits of which may be seen elsewhere. Mr. Guy continued
-with Kelly and Leon for several years, and in the Summer of 1869 went
-to England with Smith and Taylor’s Minstrels, and later appeared with
-Moore and Burgess’ Company in London. About 1870 he joined Harry
-Robinson’s Minstrels, and some months later was with Welch, Hughes and
-White in Brooklyn, N. Y.
-
-Next came the organization of the Guy Bros. Minstrels; subsequently
-the Guy Family in concerts, after which the Guy Bros. Minstrels were
-reorganized, and Mr. Guy has been continuously identified with that
-company for more than thirty-five years. For several seasons past he
-has been sole proprietor and manager. Truly George Guy is a monument to
-the profession he so befittingly represents.
-
-George R. Guy was born in Hartford, Conn., October 7, 1855.
-
-
-THE FROHMANS IN MINSTRELSY.
-
-GUS FROHMAN was manager of Callender’s Colored Minstrels in 1874; early
-in 1882 he was one of the proprietors. He was born in Sandusky, Ohio,
-about 1855.
-
-
-DANIEL FROHMAN became advance agent for Callender’s Colored Minstrels
-in 1874; subsequently he was with Haverly in an executive ability. Mr.
-Frohman was born in Sandusky, Ohio, about 1850.
-
-
-CHARLES FROHMAN, one of the world’s foremost theatrical managers,
-was treasurer for Haverly’s Mastodon Minstrels at their inception in
-Chicago, October 21, 1878. In 1880 he went to Europe with them, and
-while there, December 25, 1880, the members of the company, to show the
-high esteem in which they held their treasurer, presented him with a
-handsome gold watch, chain and locket suitably engraved.
-
-Mr. Frohman subsequently became manager of the company and continued
-with Haverly until January, 1882, when he left, and in conjunction with
-his brother Gus, became proprietor of Callender’s Colored Minstrels a
-few weeks later, and continued with that company about three years.
-
-Charles Frohman was born in Sandusky, Ohio, July 20 or 22, 1857.
-
-
-FOSTER and HUGHES were one of the great black-face acrobatic song and
-dance teams of the minstrel and variety stage. They formed an alliance
-about 1876 and continued for several years.
-
-They traveled with their own specialty company in 1886. Subsequent to
-their separation, Mr. Foster married Fannie Lewis, and did an act with
-her up to the time of his death.
-
-Mr. Hughes joined John Slavin in a knockabout act after separating from
-Mr. Foster; he has retired from the stage.
-
-Dave Foster (Patterson) died in New York, December 6, 1898.
-
-Artie Hughes (Quigg) was born in Albany, N. Y., March 28, 1855.
-
-
-JOHN T. KELLY, the favorite Irish comedian, was an end man with
-Leavitt’s Minstrels. Ask him when.
-
-Mr. Kelly was born in Boston, Mass., August 26, 1855.
-
-
-WM. F. HOEY, better known to later generations of playgoers as “Old
-Hoss,” was one of the cleverest of black-face musical comedians. His
-first appearance was in his native city at the Thirty-fourth Street
-Theatre in 1873.
-
-In 1875 he formed a partnership with John F. Fields, and as Fields and
-Hoey continued until 1878; during this period they played an engagement
-with Cal. Wagner’s Minstrels in 1876.
-
-In 1878 they dissolved partnership, and Mr. Hoey subsequently and for
-several seasons did an excruciatingly funny act with Fred Bryant.
-
-Bryant and Hoey played with Thatcher and Ryman’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia, and the San Francisco Minstrels in New York.
-
-In 1882 Mr. Hoey, Bryant, and Charles E. Evans formed the “Meteors,”
-Hoey appearing in a sketch called the “Book-Agent,” as a tramp; this
-was the inception of the “Parlor Match,” with which he was identified
-for several years.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- W. S. BUDWORTH
-
- E. M. HALL
-
- LEW. BRIMMER
-
- TOM. WARFIELD
-
- DANA H. CLAUDIUS
-
- HARRY STANWOOD
-
-BRILLIANT BANJOISTS OF MINSTRELSY.]
-
-Mr. Hoey was married to Helena French, of the French Twin Sisters, and
-was a brother of James F. Hoey.
-
-William F. Hoey was born in New York City, January 1, 1855; he died
-there June 9, 1897.
-
-
-THE RUSSELL BROS., famous for many years in practically every variety
-and vaudeville theatre in the land for their great act, the “Irish
-Servant Girls,” began their professional career in January, 1877, doing
-the old-time specialty of changing from white to black in full view of
-the audience.
-
-About 1880 they joined Woodson and Allen’s Minstrels, James doing an
-end, and John singing in the first part.
-
-John Russell was born in New York City August 19, 1854.
-
-James Russell was born in New York City October 26, 1859.
-
-
-HYDE AND BEHMAN, whose theatre in Brooklyn, N. Y., for many years
-played all the prominent black-face, as well as other luminaries, were
-the proprietors and managers of a first-class minstrel organization
-bearing their names in 1885.
-
-Richard Hyde was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., May 22, 1849.
-
-Louis Behman was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., June 4, 1855; he died there,
-February 27, 1902.
-
-
-FRANK C. GEYER, an excellent acrobatic song and dance man, made his
-first professional appearance at Deagle’s Varieties, St. Louis, Mo.;
-shortly after this he formed a partnership with George A. Turner and
-Billy Mendel, being known as the Big 3; Mendel soon dropped out, and
-the team was known as Geyer and Turner, and as such continued for
-several years, finally separating. Mr. Geyer then allied himself
-with James B. Mackie, and as Geyer and Mackie they continued giving
-black-face specialties; subsequently the team was known as Geyer and
-Sylvester, and Geyer and Lord.
-
-He managed the opera house at Bellaire, Ohio, several years.
-
-Mr. Geyer’s first wife was Amy Nelson, a prima donna, with whom he
-was professionally associated a considerable period; subsequently
-he married Mamie Forrest, of the Forrest Sisters; they played the
-principal variety houses.
-
-He traveled with O’Brien’s Circus for two years; and was one of the
-three Geyer Brothers--Frank, Charles and Albert; an odd coincidence
-concerning the latter was that for a brief period he did a black-face
-song and dance act with Frank Turner, of the Three Turner Brothers,
-known as Turner and Geyer; in one case a Turner was associated with one
-of the Three Geyer Brothers; in the other a Geyer worked with one of
-the Three Turner Brothers; the two Turners were not related.
-
-Frank C. Geyer was born in Newark, N. J., September 5, 1855; he died at
-Lexington, Mo., June 4, 1900.
-
-
-DONALD HAROLD (O’Donnell Harrold) was once the “boy tenor”; you
-wouldn’t think so to see him now, but bear in mind that was in 1872,
-on the first day of that year at Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia.
-
-Mr. Harold continued with the minstrels until August, same year; his
-voice changing, he also changed his job, and two years and one month
-later he identified himself with the famous Holman Opera Troupe,
-remaining until May 20, 1878.
-
-Since that date Mr. Harold has been associated with many musical and
-farcical productions--but no minstrels.
-
-Donald Harold was born in Philadelphia, December 5, 1855.
-
-
-BOBBY BEACH (Anin W. Gardner) entered the theatrical profession at the
-age of 15, doing a contortion act; subsequently developing into a good
-dancer.
-
-He was with Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s Minstrels in 1881, and
-about a year or so later with Otis Bowers formed the Beach and Bowers
-Minstrels, which were prominent for several seasons.
-
-He was seriously injured while doing a pedestal act.
-
-Bobby Beach was born in Rome, N. Y.; he died in Watertown, Wis.,
-December 1, 1905; age 50 years.
-
-
-TOMMY HARRIS (McGuigan), one of the very few men left capable of
-playing the old-time nigger acts, made his first appearance at Fox’s
-Theatre, Philadelphia, in 1875, with a partner, whose name was Ward;
-the team name being Ward and Harrison; subsequently they played an
-engagement in Philadelphia with Skiff and Gaylord’s Minstrels; late in
-1876 they separated. His next partner was Jack McNeil; joining Fattie
-Stewart’s Company, the team was accidently billed as Harris and McNeil;
-and Harris it has remained ever since. In 1879 they joined the Three
-Arnold Bros. Minstrels, and while with this company they dissolved
-partnership; McNeil died about 1902.
-
-Mr. Harris then played variety engagements with his wife, the team
-being known as the Harrises, until 1889; he then taking a stock
-engagement at the Odeon, Baltimore, remaining there 10 years.
-
-A season with his son and daughter, known as the 3 Harrises followed;
-then he worked with his daughter Laura (now of Cartmell and Harris) for
-about four years, after which he joined Lew Simmons for a season; then
-a brief season as one of the 4 Cartmells, after which was Smith and
-Harris.
-
-Tommy Harris was born in Philadelphia, February 3, 1855.
-
-
-HARRY KENNEDY (W. H. Kennedy), the well-known ventriloquist and song
-writer, played many minstrel engagements, notably with Haverly’s
-Mastodons.
-
-In the Fall of 1884 he was associated with Billy Birch with the San
-Francisco Minstrels.
-
-Harry Kennedy was born in Manchester, Eng.; he died in Brooklyn, N. Y.,
-January 3, 1894; age 39 years.
-
-
-CHARLEY REED. “Just the Plain Comedian” he was termed, and he _was_ a
-comedian, as anyone who remembers him will testify.
-
-Charley Reed’s professional career began and ended in white-face, but
-the major portion of it was given to minstrelsy, where he was always a
-star.
-
-About 1872 he went to the California Theatre in San Francisco, where he
-became successively call-boy, prompter and low comedian.
-
-In 1873 he joined Maguire’s Minstrels at the latter’s opera house in
-the Western metropolis. August 31, 1874, he opened for the season in
-Philadelphia with Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels; the following August
-he joined Emerson’s Minstrels in Cincinnati. In 1876 he returned to
-San Francisco, and for the next three years he continued there with
-the minstrels at Maguire’s Opera House and comedian at the Bella Union
-Theatre.
-
-July 7, 1879, with a variety company under the management of Martin
-Simon, he sailed for Australia, remaining away for more than a year.
-On February 7, 1881, he began an engagement with Thatcher and Ryman’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-A season with “Muldoon’s Picnic,” with Hyde & Behman, and Mr. Reed
-returned with Emerson’s Minstrels in San Francisco, subsequently
-becoming a partner of Emerson, and later Charley Reed’s Minstrels held
-sway at the Standard Theatre until April 10, 1886. August 16, 1886,
-he opened at the Madison Street Theatre in Chicago, with a minstrel
-company. He continued here a few weeks, and in the following October
-he appeared with Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels in New York, playing a
-brief engagement; this was his last appearance in black-face. Later he
-appeared as Ko-Ko in the “Mikado,” “A Rag Baby,” “City Directory” and
-other farcical plays.
-
-At the time of his death he was associated in partnership with William
-Collier in “Hoss and Hoss.”
-
-Charley Reed was born in New York City, May 22, 1855; he died in
-Boston, Mass., November 21, 1892.
-
- * * * * *
-
-NAT. C. GOODWIN in minstrelsy? Why, yes. He commenced an engagement
-with Haverly’s Minstrels at Chicago, September 11, 1876, doing a
-specialty consisting chiefly of imitations.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-GRIFFIN and RICE ranked with the premier black-face song and dance
-teams of minstrelsy.
-
-They made their first appearance as an act in Pittsburg, Pa., about
-1873. September 15, 1875, they opened with Buckley’s Serenaders in
-Boston; the season closed October 25, 1875.
-
-December 20, same year, they began an engagement with Carncross and
-Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, and continued throughout the season.
-
-On November 20, 1876, they opened with Sweatnam’s Minstrels, also in
-the Quaker City, an engagement that terminated December 16. Two days
-later they returned to Carncross and Dixey, where they remained the
-major portion of the time until the dissolution of their partnership in
-1883.
-
-In June, 1878, they played a limited engagement with Neil Bryant’s
-Minstrels in New York. August 6, 1880, they were with Sweatnam and
-Dougherty’s Minstrels, and September 6, 1881, with Murphy and Morton,
-opened with George Thatcher’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, as Murphy,
-Morton, Griffin and Rice.
-
-In 1883 Mr. Rice broke away from his black-face affiliations, and with
-Geo. S. Knight’s “Over the Garden Wall,” played a German comedy role.
-
-About 1885 Mr. Rice formed a partnership with Geo. W. Monroe, and for
-several years they starred in “My Aunt Bridget.” Subsequently he was
-identified with May Irwin’s and other high-class farcical productions.
-
-Mr. Rice excels as a neat dancer, and as a light comedian, leaves
-nothing to be desired.
-
-[Illustration: CHARLES HILLIARD.]
-
-Of course, everyone knows that Sallie Cohen, of Rice and Cohen, is none
-other than Mrs. John C. Rice; as a guess, the author would say the
-change occurred about 1890.
-
-James Griffin formed a partnership with Ned Ainsley in the late 60’s,
-doing black-face songs and dances, and as Ainsley and Griffin were
-together for several years.
-
-In 1872 Mr. Griffin was with Purdy, Scott and Fostelle’s Minstrels.
-
-After separating from Mr. Rice, Griffin played engagements with
-Carncross’ Minstrels in Philadelphia and Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels, in
-New York City; in 1893, he made a trip to South Africa with Serrill’s
-Minstrels.
-
-He also played in various melodramatic productions.
-
-John C. Rice (Hildeberg) was born in Beaver Kills, N. Y.--the reader
-must guess the rest.
-
-James Griffin (McNally) was born in Rochester, N. Y., September 10,
-1852; he died in Philadelphia, May 10, 1904.
-
-
-FRED HALLEN (Smith), prominent for many years as one of the famous
-farcical duo of Hallen and Hart, was “Master Ad. Weaver” as late as
-April, 1875, doing black-face parts in acts with that once well-known
-minstrel, Ad Weaver.
-
-If Mr. Hallen has any regrets, he doesn’t look it.
-
-
-HARRY LE CLAIR, the famous protean player, had his experience with cork.
-
-About 1876, at the Terrace Garden, Buffalo, N. Y., Manager Dan Shelby
-suddenly confronted LeClair and asked him if he could play Topsy. Mr.
-LeClair said he could play pinochle and seven up, but had never heard
-of Topsy, except in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” That’s the same party, said
-Shelby. So Mr. LeClair blacked up, and he blacked-down, he blacked in
-and he blacked out; he blacked his lips and he blacked his teeth; and
-he probably would still be blacking if the cork had not run out. After
-the show they had to run him through a washing machine to un-black him.
-
-
-SMITH AND BYRNE were a well-known black-face musical act thirty years
-ago. Their first appearance was at Washington Hall in New York, in
-1878, on which occasion they introduced the famous “dislocated organ”
-solos, of which Mr. Byrne claims to be the originator--and to date no
-one has disputed it.
-
-The team separated in 1884; Mr. Smith later ran for several years
-Smith’s Opera House in Bridgeport, Conn.
-
-Mr. Byrne became a monologuist, but before that, a pessimist.
-
-He is now a playwright, and is willing to prove it on the slightest
-provocation.
-
-Ed C. Smith is said to be a resident of Boston or its environs.
-
-John H. W. Byrne was born in Celbridge, Ireland, May 4, 1855.
-
-
-HARRY LACY, the well-known actor, and star for many years in the “Still
-Alarm,” was a member of Harry Robinson’s Minstrels as early as March
-29, 1873, 8:15 P. M.
-
-He sang a ballad in the first part, and sang it well.
-
-
-MICHAEL F. HENNESSY, one of the Hennessy Bros., was a well-known
-minstrel performer. He went to Europe with Haverly in 1884;
-subsequently appearing with other companies. For two seasons he was
-associated with Hennessy Bros. Minstrels.
-
-His last engagement was with Cushman and Thomas’ Minstrels. He died in
-Milford, Mass., April 24, 1890; age 35 years.
-
-
-PERCY G. WILLIAMS, the prominent vaudeville manager and theatre owner,
-played many black-face parts while a member of the Park Theatre,
-Brooklyn, N. Y., Stock Company, many years ago. To be specific, he
-enacted the role of Goliah, a colored boy, in the play of “Echoes” week
-of October 23, 1876. I have the programme.
-
-
-DAN MASON, the tangled Teutonic talker, was a comedian on the minstrel
-first part at the old National Theatre, Cincinnati, Ohio, in the Spring
-of 1874.
-
-Dan says that was the beginning of the “end.”
-
-Mr. Mason was born in Syracuse, N. Y., February 9, 1855.
-
-
-NILES and EVANS were an excellent song and dance team; Mr. Evans’
-“make-up” as a wench was something remarkable. They made their first
-joint appearance at Rochester, N. Y., January 1, 1872, appearing in
-white faces in “Under the Gaslight.”
-
-They subsequently played in black-face, and made their initial
-appearance in minstrelsy with John Hooley’s Company in Brooklyn, N.
-Y., in April, 1873; they remained a few weeks and liked it so well
-that they joined Purdy and White’s Minstrels May 19 following. There
-is reason to believe that they did not like this so well. In December,
-1874, Mr. Evans temporarily retired, and with Burt Wayne, Mr. Niles
-joined Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels.
-
-Subsequently they again joined hands and continued until March
-18, 1882; owing to the illness of Mr. Niles, they made their last
-appearance as a team in Louisville, Ky., on the above date.
-
-Mr. Evans’ career since then is well known.
-
-On August 18, 1882, he formed an alliance with Bryant and Hoey, and
-for two years headed a variety company in which the principal act was
-that of the “Book Agent”; this was the inception of “A Parlor Match,”
-which was first produced September 5, 1884, and which had a continuous
-run for ten years, since which time Mr. Evans has been successfully
-manager, producer, actor and vaudevillian.
-
-P. J. Niles was born in Syracuse, N. Y., February 8, 1851; he died at
-Lewis Station, N. Y., October 17, 1882.
-
-Charles E. Evans was born in Rochester, N. Y., September 6, 1856.
-
-
-DELMORE and WILSON are recognized as clever performers in white face,
-but that they were equally clever disguised with cork, not all are
-aware. They made their first appearance in Hoboken, N. J. (most anyone
-can tell you where it is), in 1880, doing a neat black-face character
-change act.
-
-Their first minstrel engagement was with Cal. Wagner in 1884;
-subsequently they played with the following well-known companies:
-Duprez and Benedict’s; Barlow Bros. and Frost’s; Hi Henry’s; Beach
-and Bower’s; two seasons with Carncross’ Minstrels, in Philadelphia;
-their last appearance in black-face was with Haverly’s Minstrels about
-fifteen years ago.
-
-Subsequently they played six seasons with “Finnigan’s Ball” and two
-years with “The Irish Pawnbrokers.” These gentlemen also played several
-weeks in London and the provinces, and thirteen weeks in South Africa.
-
-Len Delmore was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., March 23, 1861.
-
-Fred Wilson was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., September 10, 1856.
-
-
-JERRY HART is a black-face comedian whom we should see more of, and I
-am sure we will.
-
-Mr. Hart was raised in New Orleans, La., which gave him an opportunity
-of studying the “darky” at close range.
-
-During Mr. Hart’s career he was associated with such companies as
-Barlow, Wilson and Rankin’s; Haverly’s; Al. G. Fields’, and Schilling’s
-Minstrels.
-
-In 1897 he starred with Ned Monroe in the “Gay Matinee Girl.”
-
-About ten years ago he went to England, and later to Africa, where Hart
-and Leo played for eight years.
-
-Jerry Hart was born in Boston, Mass., January 23, 1856.
-
-
-JAMES M. TIERNEY made his first professional appearance at the age of
-10 years; he was billed as Master Eddy.
-
-About 1872 he joined Tim Cronin, and as Tierney and Cronin they
-constituted one of the best song and dance teams of their day, during
-which period they played the principal variety houses, and some of the
-famous minstrel organizations, notably Kelly and Leon’s; Neil Bryant’s
-and Hooley’s, in Brooklyn.
-
-Mr. Tierney separated from Cronin about 1881, subsequently engaging
-with Harrigan and Hart in New York; he left them April 18, 1885, after
-which he joined the Alice Oates Company, where he remained until his
-death.
-
-James M. Tierney was born in New York in 1856; he died in St. Louis,
-Mo., July 28, 1885.
-
-
-BILLIE BARLOW (Wm. S. Wyatt), a clever female impersonator who was with
-Hi Henry’s Minstrels in 1888, died in Mobile, Ala., September 2, 1897;
-age 41 years.
-
-
-FRED. DART was considered one of the best and most versatile “wenches”
-in minstrelsy; he was for many years with Sam Hague’s Minstrels in
-Liverpool, and when Mr. Hague came to this country in 1881, Mr.
-Dart was with him, subsequently joining Carncross’ Minstrels in
-Philadelphia, where he remained until the time of his death.
-
-Fred Dart was born in Liverpool, England; he died in Philadelphia,
-March 30, 1890; age 34 years.
-
-
-BILLY (Wm. H.) CHACE began his professional career in his native city,
-doing an “essence” in black-face; this was in September, 1870. His
-first minstrel show was Huntley’s Minstrels; other minstrel engagements
-were Harry Robinson’s; I. W. Baird’s; Barlow, Wilson’s; Emerson’s;
-Alex Comstock’s. With Will Culhane and Wm. R. Weston they traveled as
-Culhane, Chace and Weston’s Minstrels for 8 years.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- EDNA MAY SPOONER
-
- SALLIE COHEN
-
- CECIL SPOONER
-
- TRIXIE FRIGANZA
-
- LOTTA
-
- JENNIE YEAMANS
-
- MAUDE RAYMOND
-
- ARTIE HALL
-
- BEVERLY SITGREAVES
-
-THEY ALL BLACKED UP.]
-
-He was of the song and dance teams of Chace and Davis, Chace and Yale
-and Chace and Buckley.
-
-Other engagements were Washburn’s “Last Sensation,” 3 years; at
-the Theatre Comique, Providence, R. I., 3 years, and Rentz-Santley
-Company, 3 years; also clown with Howe’s London Circus and other circus
-engagements; James R. Waites Company, 3 years, and played Joshua
-Simpkins in the play of that name for one season, also with Rice and
-Barton’s Company.
-
-Mr. Chace was married to Miss Kitty Elzel, at Worcester, Mass., April
-18, 1882; subsequently he became the husband of Henrietta St. Felix, of
-the 4 St. Felix Sisters, at Bainbridge, Ga., February 1, 1893.
-
-Mr. Chace says that he is of the opinion that Chace and Davis at the
-Wigwam Theatre, Paterson, N. J., February, 1873, were the first to do a
-black-face “gagging” turn; I place it up to my readers.
-
-Billy Chace was born May 31, 1856; at Providence, R. I.
-
-
-LEW DOCKSTADER (Geo. Alfred Clapp).
-
-Minstrelsy didn’t commence with Lew Dockstader, but Lew Dockstader
-commenced with minstrelsy, and has been associated with it ever since,
-always appearing in black face, a distinction enjoyed but by few
-burnt-cork artists. Mr. Dockstader’s success is due to many things, the
-most conspicuous being his ability to ascertain just what the public
-wants and when it wants it; and then giving it to them.
-
-The name of Dockstader has been a household word for many years; the
-fame of Dockstader will live forever.
-
-Mr. Dockstader’s initial appearance dates back to 1873, when, in his
-native city he was a member of an amateur organization by the very
-minstrel name of Earl, Emmett and Wild’s Minstrels; with Frank Lawton
-he did a song and dance act under the team name of Lawton and Clapp.
-That there was some class even at that early date to the great artist
-in embryo, is evinced from the fact that the late Harry Bloodgood, who
-was at that time organizing a company, engaged young Clapp, and he
-forthwith became a member of Bloodgood’s Comic Alliance, opening in
-Springfield, Mass., about September 1, 1873, and continuing the season.
-
-The following year he formed a partnership with Johnny Mack, and as
-Mack and Clapp joined Whitmore and Clark’s Minstrels, remaining until
-the Spring of the next year.
-
-From 1875 to 1876 he was associated with Mart Healy, also Healy and
-Ella Saunders, playing the variety houses, and billed as the “Big
-Three.” Then something happened. Mr. Dockstader fell into some money;
-but how fall out? Have a theatre of your own, someone suggested.
-Accordingly, on the 11th day of September, 1876, Newton’s Varieties,
-in Hartford, Conn., was opened under the management of Lew Clapp; four
-weeks later the name of the theatre was changed to the Adelphi and as
-the Adelphi it continued until January 13 following, when Mr. Clapp
-surrendered the reins of management to the more venerable Ad. Weaver.
-
-[Illustration: LEW. DOCKSTADER.]
-
-Thinking he had said goodby to the theatrical business for good and
-all, Mr. Clapp (who still retained some of his inheritance) set out for
-California, where he reached in due time. This was before the day of
-“Seeing San Francisco” cars were in evidence; nevertheless he saw all
-that was worth seeing before it dawned upon him that the end of his
-money had been nearly reached.
-
-Fate in the guise of Cogill and Cooper appeared on the scene, and
-in May, 1877, opened the new Adelphi Theatre in the great Western
-metropolis; Lew Clapp doing a song and dance, “Peter, You’re in Luck
-This Morning,” was one of the features of the bill.
-
-After a pleasant and profitable engagement of several months he joined
-Sargent’s Minstrels for a tour, opening early in September and closing
-in Sacramento, Cal., December 10, 1877.
-
-He gradually worked his way to New York, where in August, 1878, he
-formed a partnership with Charles Dockstader, doing black-face songs
-and dances; the alliance, which was known as the Dockstader Brothers,
-continued until the illness of Charles Dockstader caused a severance
-of their business relations in Philadelphia, in March, 1883. Mr.
-Dockstader made his initial appearance with his new partner in Jersey
-City, September, 1878; they remained there several weeks.
-
-Their first minstrel engagement was with Jerry Thomas’ Minstrels in New
-York at the Brighton Theatre (present site of Bijou) December 30, 1878.
-
-They then played the principal variety houses until the commencement
-of the season of 1880 when they joined Carncross’ Minstrels in
-Philadelphia for the season; the following year they returned there,
-and remained until about January 1, 1882, when they joined George
-Thatcher’s Minstrels, also in Philadelphia, for a brief engagement,
-terminating January 21st; a week later they opened with Haverly’s
-Minstrels in St. Louis, Mo., for the balance of the season.
-
-In the Fall of 1882 they again returned to Carncross’, in Philadelphia,
-where after the sickness of Charles Dockstader in March, 1883, Lew
-Dockstader remained until the season closed; drawing the double salary
-for his individual services, and generously sharing it with his
-afflicted partner.
-
-Mr. Dockstader began his fourth season with Carncross in the Fall of
-1883; he continued there until the Spring of 1886. On the 17th day
-of September that year, Dockstader’s Minstrels opened as a permanent
-institution in New York City, where for more than three years he held
-forth, surrounded at all times with the luminaries of the minstrel
-world; during this period he made a trip to California with his company.
-
-The final performance was given December 9, 1889.
-
-December 23, 1889, he opened with Hermann’s Trans-Oceanic Vaudeville
-Company for a limited engagement.
-
-The following month he became a member of Primrose and West’s Minstrels
-and continued with them until the Spring of 1891, after which he joined
-George Thatcher’s Minstrels in San Francisco, and finished the season
-with that company.
-
-Dockstader’s Minstrels were next organized for a road tour and made
-their first appearance at Dayton, Ohio, July 23, 1891. They traveled
-successfully until February 20, 1895; on that date giving their closing
-performance in Cincinnati.
-
-Mr. Dockstader immediately entered vaudeville, and continued in it
-successfully until 1898, when in connection with George Primrose, a
-minstrel company bearing their names was organized. It traveled for
-five years during which time it gave universal satisfaction.
-
-In 1903 Mr. Dockstader again headed his own aggregation; each year
-since then successfully conducting it on lines that have long since
-made it synonymous with all that is best in minstrelsy.
-
-Mr. Dockstader does what no other black-face monologuist has ever
-attempted, namely, to give a different specialty every season, each one
-being an expensive scenic affair that requires generally a full stage
-to properly produce.
-
-Lew Dockstader was born in Hartford, Conn., August 7, 1856.
-
-
-TOM SADLER, a well-known comedian, was a member of Haverly’s Mastodons
-at their inception in 1878; he went to England with them in 1880,
-and continued with them several years after. He was of the team of
-Green and Sadler, and later Morton and Sadler. Mr. Sadler was born in
-Nashville, Tenn., October 16, 1856; he died in Liverpool, England,
-December 31, 1893.
-
-
-BILLY STILES (Lyons), a well-known performer of three decades ago, who
-was at one time connected with Haverly’s Minstrels, and Washburn’s
-Circus, was a native of Bridgeport, Conn. He died in Newark, N. J.,
-October 10, 1909; age 53 years.
-
-
-RICE and BARTON, famous for many years for their burlesque productions,
-did a great black-face act in 1882, and three years later headed Rice
-and Barton’s Minstrels.
-
-Rice and Barton were brothers, and up to the time of the death of
-the former, comprised one of the oldest theatrical partnerships in
-existence.
-
-George W. Rice (Swope) was born in Three Springs, Pa., September 13,
-1858; he died at Centreport, Long Island, N. Y., December 22, 1909.
-
-Charles Barton (Swope) was born in Three Springs, Pa., in 1856.
-
-
-CHAS. H. YALE had a varied experience as a black-face performer before
-he could tack the words, “Manager of Devil’s Auction,” to his name.
-
-Mr. Yale first appeared professionally at Haverhill, Mass., in 1873,
-doing a black-face banjo act. He next worked in acts with Neil Burgess,
-in white-face. Subsequently he did a black-face act with George Austin,
-and later with Harry Fielding.
-
-About 1875 he formed a partnership with Al. Decker, and as Yale and
-Decker they traveled for several seasons. Mr. Yale also achieved marked
-success as a pantomimist.
-
-Charles H. Yale was born at Laconia, N. H., February 13, 1856.
-
-
-THE HOGAN BROS. formed a partnership in the middle 70’s, doing
-black-face songs and dances; their greatest success was with the “Happy
-Hottentots.”
-
-They had been with various minstrel and specialty companies during the
-eighteen years they were associated together.
-
-Harry Hogan had been business manager at the Bijou Theatre in Jersey
-City, N. J., almost fifteen years.
-
-Gus Hogan had been manager for various burlesque companies, after their
-separation.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- NED--GOSS & FOX--JAS.
- (Portraits reversed)
-
- JAS.--GRIFFIN & RICE--JOHN C.
- (1875)
- (Portraits reversed)
-
- JNO. F.--FIELDS & HOEY--WM. F.
- (Portraits reversed)]
-
-Harry Hogan (Hornidge) was born in New York, in 1857; he died in Jersey
-City, N. J., October 26, 1905.
-
-Gus Hogan (Rohling) was born in New York; he died at Fair Haven, N. J.,
-May 30, 1908; age 50 years.
-
-
-HOOLEY AND THOMPSON formed a partnership about 1871, doing black-face
-songs and dances.
-
-Their first prominent engagement was with Welch, Hughes and White’s
-Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y. They were with Haverly’s Mastodons in
-1878, and went to Europe with them in 1880, and continued with Haverly
-some time after that.
-
-Subsequently they were with Wilson and Rankin’s Minstrels. In
-September, 1887, they joined Rice, Hart, and Ryman’s Minstrels; this
-was their last joint engagement.
-
-They separated about August, 1888; Mr. Hooley subsequently acting in an
-official capacity at his uncle’s (R. M. Hooley) theatre in Chicago.
-
-Mr. Thompson afterward played in white-face with Joe Murphy’s Irish
-dramas, and for several seasons was the latter’s manager.
-
-Bob Hooley was born in Brooklyn, N. Y.; he, died in Chicago, Ill.,
-January 24, 1899.
-
-Dan Thompson (Sallows) was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., August 27, 1857.
-
-
-MAURICE HALEY, one of the original Electric Three, comprising Callan,
-Haley and Callan, was a comedian and dancer, and one of the organizers
-of the Electric Three Minstrels about 1887.
-
-He died in New York August 28, 1890; age 33 years.
-
-
-J. W. KELLY (Shields), famous the country over as the “Rolling Mill
-Man,” and one of the greatest natural wits the world ever knew, did a
-black-face act with Charles Dockstader at the London Theatre, New York,
-on the night of October 23, 1884, called “Worse and Worse.”
-
-Mr. Kelly, who was a wonderful Irish comedian, was born in
-Philadelphia, in 1857; he died in New York, June 26, 1896.
-
-
-TIM CRONIN made his first appearance at the “House of Commons” in 1869.
-This was not the famous place where the Britishers make their laws;
-not, not; for Timothy did not have political aspirations for many years
-after that.
-
-It was in 1870 that he played his first minstrel engagement as “Master
-Charley,” doing a jig and song and dance, with Bryant’s Company in his
-native city.
-
-A year or two later he joined James Tierney, and as Tierney and Cronin
-one of their great acts was the “Ashante Recruits.”
-
-During the decade they were together they played several important
-minstrel engagements, such as Kelly and Leon’s; Neil Bryant’s, and
-Hooley’s, in Brooklyn, N. Y. With Tierney and Lester and Allen, Mr.
-Cronin formed the “Four Aces” in 1877, continuing as a quartette for
-one season.
-
-Mr. Cronin next went with Harrigan and Hart in New York, where about
-1881 he left Tierney, and subsequently allied himself with Master
-Martin, Dan Waldron and William Smith, and for several seasons traveled
-as the “Big 4.” In 1886 he joined Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels at their
-permanent home in New York City.
-
-For several years Mr. Cronin has been playing white-face comedy parts,
-the first of which was with Tony Hart in “A Toy Pistol”; he continued
-with Hart until the sad ending of the latter’s career.
-
-Since then he has been identified with many famous farcical fellows,
-and also has to his credit a three-year engagement with Augustin Daly
-in New York.
-
-After Mr. Cronin’s long experience in the varieties, it was but natural
-that he should take “A Trip to the Vaudevilles”; and he did; George M.
-Cohan wrote it, and Tim Cronin played it in fourteen parts; that is, he
-portrayed fourteen different characters.
-
-Tim Cronin was born in New York City, November 4, 1857.
-
-
-CONNORS and KELLY. Jimmy Connors, of the old team of Connors and Kelly,
-joined the latter about 1871, and continued together 19 years. They
-went to England in 1876, and remained eight years. He was once of the
-“Big 4.”
-
-Maggie Weston, well known for her comedy characterizations of the rough
-Irish woman, was his wife; they were married July 3, 1888.
-
-Jimmy Connors was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., April 1856; he died in New
-York City, January 3, 1909.
-
-Jimmy Kelly died about 15 years ago.
-
-
-“BUCK” SHEFFER (Chas. Sheffer) at a very early age appeared in acts
-with Otto Burbank. In the middle 70’s he worked with Bob Slavin, as
-Sheffer and Slavin, subsequently appearing with Mike Foley, as Sheffer
-and Foley.
-
-About 1880 he joined Harry Blakely and continued with him until the
-death of the latter.
-
-In the character of a rough wench he excelled.
-
-Of late years Mr. Sheffer has been working in vaudeville with his
-daughter, a young lady of unusual talents.
-
-“Buck” Sheffer was born in Baltimore, Md., January 25, 1857.
-
-
-HARRY BLAKELY (Blacklock) joined Sheffer about 1880, and together were
-one of the greatest teams of their day in the characters of plantation
-negroes. Prior to Mr. Blakely’s stage appearance, he was a page in
-Congress for many years, and was a man of unusual intelligence.
-
-Harry Blakely was born in Alexandria, Va., 1859; he died in New York
-City, June 1, 1891.
-
-
-JOHN BLACKFORD, a most excellent portrayer of the plantation darky, was
-with Cleveland’s Minstrels season of 1895-96, and 1898 he was a member
-of Haverly’s last minstrel company; he subsequently joined Al. G.
-Field’s Minstrels, where he remained until his death.
-
-Mr. Blackford’s “Coon from Arkansaw” was one of the gems of latter day
-minstrelsy.
-
-John Blackford died at Charleston, W. Va., December 7, 1903; age 46
-years.
-
-
-FRED A. BELL (Herrick) with his partner, Sam Howe, created considerable
-stir by dancing a clog on a marble pedestal and turning a somersault in
-the air. He was with Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West’s Minstrels in
-1881, and the following season joined the Barlow, Wilson Minstrels.
-
-Fred A. Bell was born in Toledo, Ohio; he died in Louisville, Ky.,
-March 17, 1884; age 27 years.
-
-
-PETE MACK (McGlone), the well-known and capable comedian, joined J. C.
-Harrington about 1873, doing double songs and dances; the partnership
-continued about four years, when Mr. Mack, who was working under his
-own name, went with the New Orleans Minstrels. October 21, 1878, using
-the name of Mack, he joined Haverly’s Original Mastodon Minstrels in
-Chicago, and continued with Mr. Haverly off and on for several seasons;
-in the Fall of 1881 he was with Emerson’s Minstrels in San Francisco.
-
-Mr. Mack was with Haverly on the latter’s second trip to England, in
-1884; while there he received an offer from “Pony” Moore to join Moore
-and Burgess’ Minstrels in London; he accepted and remained several
-seasons.
-
-Subsequently he was with Dockstader’s Minstrels in New York City, and
-with the “City Directory”; his last engagement was with Donnelly and
-Girard in “Natural Gas”; always appearing in black-face.
-
-Pete Mack died in Pittsburgh, Pa., March 15, 1892; age 35 years.
-
-
-WM. R. WESTON, of the firm of Culhane, Chace and Weston’s Minstrels,
-previous to the inception of that organization in the middle 90’s, was
-with Emerson’s Minstrels and Dockstader’s Minstrels. Was also with
-Reilly and Woods Co., and the St. Felix Sisters organizations. He was
-an accomplished musician and leader.
-
-At the time of his death he was musical director of the orchestra at
-the Music Hall, Yonkers, N. Y.
-
-His wife was Charlotte St. Felix, of the 4 St. Felix Sisters.
-
-William R. Weston was born at Stafford, Conn., April 6, 1857; he died
-at Brooklyn, N. Y., September 25, 1906.
-
-
-DAVID BELASCO.--The author had been told that the subject of this
-sketch played black-face parts during his very early career in San
-Francisco; and on September 12, 1910, wrote to Mr. Belasco asking him
-to verify the report.
-
-Under date of November 7, 1910, Mr. Belasco sent the following:
-
-“Pray pardon me for the delay in replying to your letter, but I have
-been much absent from town and my time wholly occupied with rehearsals.
-
-“I am sorry to say that I’m afraid I can’t give you any definite
-information, as it is from twenty to twenty-five years ago, and I
-really don’t remember. I only recollect that I played many little parts.
-
- Faithfully,
- “DAVID BELASCO.”
-
-Wonder if Mr. Belasco has any ideas in that fertile brain of his, as to
-how a minstrel show should be run? Bet he has.
-
-
-SALLIE COHEN played Topsy in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” when she was a little
-girl; she told me so herself.
-
-But that couldn’t have been such a very long time ago; now was it, Mrs.
-Rice?
-
-
-SAM RICKEY (Rich. T. Higgins), one of the greatest stage Irishmen ever
-known, and who was an early partner of Edw. Harrigan, played frequently
-in black-face during his early career with Add. Weaver. He was also
-with Hart, Ryman and Barney’s Minstrels in 1871.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- JOHN A. LANG
-
- BOB. TYRRELL
-
- RAYMOND SHAW
-
- HAYDON TILLA
-
- THOS. B. DIXON
-
- HARRY SHIRLEY
-
- GEO. W. HARLEY
-
- HARRY W. ROE
-
- HORACE RUSHBY
-
-MORE SINGERS.]
-
-He died in New York, September 10, 1885.
-
-
-EDMOND G. CORBIN, the Apollo banjoist, formerly of Claudius and Corbin,
-Hale and Corbin, and just Corbin, was one of the features of the
-Primrose and Dockstader’s Minstrels in 1901.
-
-Mr. Corbin’s ideas of comedy frequently conflicted with those of Jas.
-H. Decker.
-
-Mr. Corbin may soon mingle midst the mirthful and merry monologists.
-
-Edmond G. Corbin was born in Troy, N. Y., May 23, 1877.
-
-
-WILL J. DAVIS, the popular and efficient manager of the beautiful
-Illinois Theatre in Chicago, writing to the author from Hot Springs,
-Ark., March 27, 1909, said: * * * “Lew Dockstader is billed for a
-night here about the middle of April. Wish I could stay to see the
-performance.”
-
-Of course, you did, Mr. Davis, for you haven’t forgotten your
-associations with Jack Haverly, and when you took his famous Georgia
-Minstrels to California in 1876. They were the first real colored
-troupe to visit the coast; their success there was in no small way due
-to your executive ability. Then there was a “Will Davis’ Minstrels”
-that toured Canada, some years ago. Wonder who that was?
-
-
-“COAL OIL JOHNNY” (John W. Steele), whose extravagances of about 45
-years ago while “financial manager” of Skiff and Gaylord’s Minstrels,
-are yet recalled by many in and out of the profession, is said to be
-living quietly in Hazleton, Pa.
-
-“Coal Oil Johnny” was a poor boy in the 60’s, when his foster parents,
-who had suddenly acquired fabulous wealth through the finding of oil
-on their property, died and left their all to young Steele. Then came
-a riotous round of dissipations and extravagances. It was a common
-thing for Steele to buy a carriage and team, and a few minutes later
-give it away to any stranger he happened to meet. It is said he gave a
-hotel away in the same manner. Mr. Steele furnished the money for the
-minstrels, and diamonds for the promoters, on the sole condition that
-his name should be used on all printing as “financial manager,” as
-already stated.
-
-It is said that he has seen no minstrel show in late years.
-
-
-CHAUNCEY OLCOTT, the favorite singing Irish comedian, was many years a
-minstrel.
-
-On the 21st day of February, 1876, Mr. Olcott, full of hope, became
-a member of the Alabama Serenaders, a minstrel company, which closed
-at St. Thomas, Canada, at the end of the third performance. Had the
-treasurer of the organization been as good as the show, they might have
-still been traveling.
-
-In the Fall of the same year he joined Lew Benedict’s Minstrels. Mr.
-Olcott’s banner year as a minstrel was in 1879; here’s the record.
-September 13, opened with Simmons and Slocum’s Company in Philadelphia;
-November 27, he played a full season with the Three Rankin’s Minstrels,
-opening at Columbus, Ohio, on the above date, and closing with the
-company (which also closed) November 27, 1879, after a consecutive run
-of one consecutive night. Was Mr. Olcott discouraged? Not much; he
-became a member of Haverly’s Mastodons at Buffalo, N. Y.; prior to
-which he was with Hooley and Emerson’s Megatherians. July 31, 1880, he
-opened with Haverly at the Drury Lane Theatre, London, England.
-
-October 17, 1881, he opened in San Francisco with Billy Emerson’s
-Minstrels. About January, 1884, he married Miss Carrie Armstrong in
-Philadelphia.
-
-Mr. Olcott was with Carncross’ Minstrels in Philadelphia, where he
-remained about two or three years. Seasons of 1884-85-86 he was with
-Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Minstrels. September 11, 1886, he again
-joined Simmons and Slocum’s Company in the Quaker City.
-
-A short time after that he became a member of the “Old Homestead”;
-later he played Nanki Poo in the “Mikado”; subsequently entering the
-field of Irish drama.
-
-Chauncey Olcott was born July 21, 1857, at Providence, R. I.
-
-
-HARRY M. PRICE, prominent in many musical productions for his many
-successes in Dutch comedy parts, was one of the Price Bros., from 1877
-to 1882, doing black-face song and dance acts.
-
-Theo. Price, his brother, has retired from active theatricals on
-account of illness.
-
-Harry M. Price was born in Baltimore, Md., May 20, 1857.
-
-
-BANKS WINTER first appeared theatrically as a member of an amateur
-minstrel company in his native city; that was in 1877.
-
-Mr. Winter became a real minstrel November 9, 1879, at Dayton, Ohio,
-when he joined Haverly’s Mastodons--and there were others, notably
-Billy Arlington’s; Skiff’s California; Leavitt’s Gigantean’s;
-Haverly-Cleveland’s; Cleveland’s and five years with Thatcher, Primrose
-and West’s.
-
-In November, 1900, Mr. Winter, accompanied by his charming and talented
-young daughter, entered the vaudeville field, and as Banks and Winona
-Winter, traveled for several seasons.
-
-In the Fall of 1907 Mr. Winter played a brief engagement in a
-vaudeville act, appearing in black-face. The report that Mr. Winter
-didn’t black his ears or eyes on this occasion is manifestly absurd.
-
-Mr. Winter was born in Macon, Ga., February 8, 1857; after which he
-wrote “White Wings”; and incidentally no one ever sang it better, for
-Banks Winter was one of minstrelsy’s great tenors.
-
-
-JOHN D. GILBERT (Donohue) formed a partnership with Billy Courtright
-about 1871, in an original black-face act called “Big and Little”; they
-subsequently had many imitators. Courtright and Gilbert made their
-first New York appearance at Charley White’s, 585 Broadway, October
-12, 1872. Mr. Gilbert later eschewed burnt cork, and subsequently
-with Henry V. Donnelly and Eddie Girard starred in “Natural Gas.” Mr.
-Gilbert’s time is now mostly devoted to authoring theatrical sketches.
-
-John D. Gilbert was born in Dublin, Ireland, September 3, 1857.
-
-
-WM. J. SULLY (Sullivan) formed a partnership with Patsy Howard in 1873,
-doing a black-face act; they remained together one season. In 1876 he
-joined Billy Williams, and as Williams and Sully were well known on the
-variety stage, where they played for eleven years.
-
-Mr. Sully afterwards married Nellie Germon, and as Sully and Germon did
-sketches, also in the variety theatres.
-
-In 1884 Williams, Sully and Germon’s “Three Sunflowers” Company toured.
-
-Of late Mr. Sully has been doing a single specialty in vaudeville. Mr.
-Sully was born in Boston, Mass., June 23, 1858.
-
-
-ALF GIBSON, the well-known comedian, made his first appearance at
-Columbus, Ohio, as a clog dancer, during the festivities that attended
-the Goss-Allen fight.
-
-In 1875 he was with William Lawrence Allen’s Statue Company; after this
-Gilmore and Gibson did a song and dance with Mons. De Rea Circus.
-
-Several years were spent in stock at the Bella Union and Adelphi
-Theatres in San Francisco.
-
-Subsequently he went to Carncross’ Minstrels in Philadelphia and
-remained four years.
-
-A trip to England, and on the return he played an engagement with
-Haverly in Chicago, in 1893. Mr. Gibson was twelve years at Dumont’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia; two seasons with George Primrose’s
-Minstrels, and one season with Cohan and Harris’ Minstrels (1908).
-
-Mr. Gibson formed a partnership with John Murphy that existed twelve
-years.
-
-He married a Miss Davis October 27, 1880, and as Gibson and Davis they
-played several seasons.
-
-For the past ten years he has been associated with the company known
-as Murphy and Gibson’s Minstrels at Atlantic City, N. J., during the
-Summer.
-
-Alf. Gibson was born at Ashland, Ohio, September 11, 1858.
-
-
-“MASTER” MARTIN has been “Master” Martin for forty odd years, or ever
-since his first professional appearance at the Old Bowery Theatre in
-1867; N. B. Clarke was the stage manager, and ’twas he that gave him
-the sobriquet.
-
-“Master” Martin essayed many roles before he played his first minstrel
-engagement with Bryant’s company in New York, early in 1875.
-
-February 12, 1877, he opened with Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels also in
-New York. Other minstrel engagements were with Moore and Burgess in
-London, England, where he remained two and a half years.
-
-In August, 1877, he became a member of the Big Four; Smith, Waldron,
-Morton and Martin; Mr. Martin continued a member of the Big Four
-through its many changes, for nearly a quarter of a century.
-
-In the Summer of 1879 the Big Four Minstrels opened in New York City.
-
-Mr. Martin has been associated also with Simmons and Slocum’s;
-Dockstader’s, Rice and Sheppard’s, Cleveland’s, and Haverly’s
-Minstrels; the latter in 1898. In his earlier career “Master” Martin
-was famous for his impersonation of the monkey; and for five years he
-played Dragonfin in “The Black Crook.”
-
-[Illustration: CHAS. AND GUSTAVE FROHMAN AS MINSTREL MAGNATES; 1883.]
-
-He also played black-face parts in “Easy Dawson”; “The Ninety and
-Nine,” and the “Millionaire’s Revenge.”
-
-He likewise created the character of Banty Tim, a dumb negro in “Jim
-Bludso.” Mr. Martin’s playing of this most difficult pantomimic role
-was most artistic.
-
-“Master” Martin was born in New York City, August 27, 1858.
-
-
-JAMES TEN BROOKE (Sheridan), first appeared professionally in 1876;
-Brooklyn, N. Y., was where it happened.
-
-A year or so later he joined Larry Dooley in a “nigger act,” and
-continued with him until 1881; in 1880 they were with the Big Four
-Minstrels. Mr. Ten Brooke subsequently played stock engagements for
-several seasons, and in 1898 rejoined his former partner, and later
-played an engagement with Primrose and Dockstader’s Minstrels; with
-this organization Mr. Ten Brooke officiated as interlocutor; and he is
-one of the best.
-
-He next appeared in white-face with the “Volunteer Organist”; after
-which with his daughter and son-in-law, as Ten Brooke, Lambert and Ten
-Brooke, he played vaudeville. Subsequently Ten Brooke and Henry formed
-a partnership, and are now in vaudeville.
-
-James Ten Brooke was born in New York, January 23, 1858.
-
-
-JAMES MACK (McAvoy), who attained some prominence with minstrel shows
-as a female impersonator, died at Elyria, Ohio, November 5, 1890; age
-32 years.
-
-
-THE GIRARD BROTHERS ranked with the great black-face song and dance
-teams of minstrelsy. Their first appearance was made at the Wigwam
-Theatre, in Paterson, N. J., in 1874.
-
-In 1876 they were with Washburn’s Last Sensation, and two years later
-they played a brief engagement with Ben Cotton and “Happy” Cal.
-Wagner’s Minstrels.
-
-In 1879 they joined Hooley and Emerson’s great Megatherian Minstrels;
-about 1880 they formed an alliance with Seamon and Somers, and were
-known as the “Grotesque Four”; and incidentally this was one of the
-greatest “four” acts ever put together.
-
-The quartette opened with Thatcher and Ryman’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia, December 20, 1880, and remained until the closing of the
-season. In 1881 the four joined Leavitt’s Giganteans for the season.
-
-Early in 1882 the four joined forces with Lester and Allen, and as the
-“Funny Six” met with considerable success.
-
-Subsequently the Girard Brothers separated, and Eddie Girard joined
-Haverly’s Minstrels, continuing with them for several months; with this
-company, in conjunction with Callan, Haley and Callan, they produced
-“Down Where the Cotton Grows.”
-
-In 1884 with the same organization, Eddie Girard also worked with the
-late Charley Seamon.
-
-After this engagement Eddie Girard went to San Francisco, and played
-with Charley Reed’s Minstrels, after which, in conjunction with Billy
-Arlington and Harry Wyatt, the late manager of the Mason Opera House,
-in Los Angeles, Cal., Arlington, Girard and Wyatt’s Minstrels made a
-brief tour.
-
-This was Mr. Girard’s last appearance in black-face.
-
-Subsequently as Gilbert, Donnelly and Girard, and later Donnelly and
-Girard, “Natural Gas” played several seasons; this was succeeded by
-“The Rainmakers” and “The Geezer.”
-
-For several years past, Mr. Girard and his wife, as Girard and Gardner,
-have played successfully in vaudeville.
-
-Willie Girard (Maloney), died in New York, September 5, 1892.
-
-Eddie Girard was born in Paterson, N. J., August 28, 1858.
-
-
-JOHN DALY, one of the best known and most capable dancers of modern
-minstrelsy, made his first appearance at St. James Hall, Buffalo,
-N. Y., doing a black-face song and dance. August 9, 1878, Mr. Daly
-became a member of the Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West Company,
-and continued with them until the dissolution of the organization in
-1882; he then joined the Thatcher, Primrose and West Company, at their
-inception, and continued with them during their existence, seven years.
-
-Mr. Daly next allied himself with the Primrose and West Company, and
-remained two seasons.
-
-Season of 1891-92, he was with Cleveland’s Minstrels, and for the two
-seasons following he cast his fortunes with George Thatcher in the
-“Tuxedo” and “Africa” companies.
-
-Mr. Daly then became a real legitimate actor with the “Bowery Girl,”
-“Paradise Alley” and “Sis Hopkins” and “A Daughter’s Devotion”
-Company’s, and he also took the regulation trip to vaudeville as Daly
-and Miss Paine (Mrs. Daly), and Daly and George Lewis.
-
-Our John was now really sorry, and with tears in his eyes he “saw” Lew
-Dockstader; that gentleman was forgiving, and for six years Mr. Daly
-was a fixture with that gentleman’s organization, remaining until 1910.
-
-O! yes, in 1898 “John” was with the Haverly Minstrels, and one of the
-Big Four--Smith, Waldron, Daly and Martin.
-
-Mr. Daly was born in Buffalo, N. Y., May 14, 1858.
-
-
-HARRY MANN (Emanuel Hayman), brother of Al. Hayman of the theatrical
-syndicate, was identified in an executive capacity with Haverly’s
-Minstrels in 1878; subsequently he managed the tours of Evans and Hoey
-for many seasons, also other prominent organizations. Previous to his
-death he was business manager of the Knickerbocker Theatre, New York
-City.
-
-Harry Mann was born in Wheeling, West Va.; he died in Saratoga, N. Y.,
-July 11, 1901; age about 52 years.
-
-
-MARK SULLIVAN, well known for his character impersonations of prominent
-actors, and who lately scored a success with Raymond Hitchcock in “The
-Man Who Owns Broadway,” was a black-face song and dance man with the
-Megatherian Minstrels in 1879, and a good one “mark” you.
-
-He was born in Erie, Pa., April 16, 1858.
-
-
-CLARENCE BURTON (De Witt Norris) had the distinction of being one of
-the youngest banjoists and comedians in minstrelsy.
-
-His career began with the Holman Opera Company about 1870, when he had
-barely entered his teens. The following year he was in Chicago with
-Hooley’s Minstrels; and in December, 1872, he was with Arlington,
-Cotton and Kemble’s Company in the same city; he became a member of
-Washburn’s Last Sensation Company in 1873, and a year later he was with
-Cool White’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y.
-
-Subsequently he formed an alliance with John and Lottie Burton, and
-they played the principal variety houses for a few years.
-
-Clarence Burton was born in Erie, Pa., about 1857; he died there March
-12, 1885.
-
-
-THOS. ADAMS, of the well-known black-face musical team of Bunnell and
-Adams, was identified with several prominent companies, and played the
-principal vaudeville theatres.
-
-He was born in Boston, Mass.; he died in Little Rock, Ark., March 10,
-1893; age 35 years.
-
-
-BILLY GOLDEN (Wm. B. Shire) started theatrically in 1874 with Frank
-Merritt as a partner, remaining with him one year. In 1875 he joined
-Billy Draiton, and for ten years they appeared in all parts of the
-United States as Golden and Draiton.
-
-In 1885 with his wife, May Golden, played for several seasons as The
-Goldens; later this alliance was augmented by Dick Schalpan.
-
-Mr. Golden retired in 1900 to enter hotel life in Washington, D. C.,
-where he remained three years.
-
-September 25, 1904, he joined Joe Hughes as the team of Golden and
-Hughes, and as such they are now playing.
-
-Mr. Golden’s wench business is genuinely funny, and it’s worth going
-miles to hear him sing “Turkey in the Straw.”
-
-Billy Golden was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, June 9, 1858.
-
-
-J. C. HARRINGTON made his first appearance with Leslie, Raynor and
-Smith’s Minstrels, at the Temple of Music in San Francisco, 1868;
-nigger acts? Why, yes.
-
-Harrington and McGlone (Pete Mack), were at Simmons and Slocum’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia in 1873; to look at J. C. to-day, you’d
-never believe it. But I digress. Harrington and McGlone continued as a
-black-face song and dance team until about 1877; next came Harrington
-and Cummings for a couple of seasons, and Harrington and Johnson for
-eight years. Mr. Harrington then decided to go it alone, and for three
-years, commencing about 1891, he was one of the principal comedians of
-Dockstader’s Minstrels (traveling).
-
-Afterwards he made an extended trip to Europe, where he worked with
-Burns, of Blocksom and Burns.
-
-For the past few years Mr. Harrington has been associated with Cohan
-and Harris’ attractions; appearing in white-face.
-
-J. C. Harrington was born in Rochester, N. Y., September 8, 1858.
-
-
-EDW. C. DOBSON, the well-known banjoist and banjo instructor, made his
-first appearance with the San Francisco Minstrels in New York City,
-about 1868, meeting with much success in his imitations of the bell
-chimes.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- NED.--HARRIGAN & HART--TONY
- (Portraits reversed)
-
- JAMES--ADAMS & LEE--JOHN H.
-
- JAKE--WELBY & PEARL--CHAS.
- (Portraits reversed)
-
- DELMANNING BROS.]
-
-Other minstrel engagements were with Sam Sanford’s traveling company,
-and subsequently with Thatcher, Primrose and West’s.
-
-Mr. Dobson spent fifteen years in London and the provinces, appearing
-in the principal halls.
-
-June 9, 1885, he won the gold medal presented by the Prince of Wales
-(the late King) in a competition.
-
-Edward C. Dobson was born in Newburgh, N. Y., September 12, 1858.
-
-
-WM. E. HINES (Timothy Edwin Hines) made his first appearance as a super
-at the Bowery Theatre, New York City, with George L. Fox.
-
-His initial black-face appearance was at Jake Acker’s Theatre, Troy, N.
-Y., in 1873. Early in his career he had as partners Billy Ginniven and
-George Turner. In 1876 he joined Frank Cummings; the team being known
-as Cummings and Hines; they played extended engagements at Harrigan and
-Hart’s, New York City, and Ben Cotton’s Minstrels in Chicago.
-
-January 1, 1879 he joined Nat Blossom, the team being known as Hines
-and Blossom; their first engagement was at Montpelier’s Theatre,
-Cleveland, Ohio; subsequently Hines and Blossom and Monumental
-Quartette Minstrels--all at one time, and in one theatre; honest; ask
-Bill. Afterwards they were with Cooper and Bailey’s Great London Circus.
-
-Hines and Blossom separated, and Hines joined his wife, Daisy
-Remington, now known as Earle Remington, whose recent volume of
-rhymes have attracted considerable attention, both in and out of the
-profession; this alliance was formed in the Fall of 1881, and has
-continued ever since.
-
-Mr. Hines claims to have been one of the original “Four Aces”--Sheffer,
-Nelson, Turner and Hines, at Deagle’s Theatre, St. Louis, 1876; and in
-1887, was one of the “American Four,” Pettengill, Gale, Hines and Hoyt;
-also Niles, Evans, Cummings and Hines as the “Boss Four.”
-
-William E. Hines was born in New York City, July 4, 1858.
-
-
-BILLY WOOD (Max Gottlieb). It is generally conceded, that as a
-black-face comedian musical moke, Billy Wood never had a superior; Wood
-was funny when he made his entrance in that long dark brown ulster with
-padlocks substituting as buttons; he was funny when he spoke, and funny
-in whatever he did--and a real musician; his performance on the “cello”
-brought tears to the eyes of his auditors on more than one occasion.
-
-His first appearance was about 1874, when he did a clog with the
-Girard Brothers. Wood and Beasley shortly after formed an alliance,
-which continued about six years, the act being augmented by the Weston
-Brothers, and as Wood, Beasley and the Weston Brothers, they continued
-for about five years longer.
-
-In 1885 Wood was treasurer and general performer with Lester and
-Allen’s Minstrels; here he met Frank Sheppard, and with the addition of
-Fred Bryant (Bryant & Hoey), they formed a trio that continued about
-up to the time of the latter’s unhappy death; Wood and Sheppard then
-continued as partners until the latter’s decease, after which he allied
-himself with William Bates, and as Wood and Bates they continued for
-five years. Owing to partial deafness, Mr. Wood does not play regularly.
-
-William Wood was born in Buda Pesth, Hungary, August 17, 1858.
-
-
-FRANK SHEPPARD (Fash) began his minstrel career about 1882 with
-Leavitt’s Gigantean Minstrels, as a cornettist. In 1885 he joined
-Lester and Allen’s Minstrels, here he formed a partnership with Billy
-Wood. Sheppard was a superb “straight” man, and a splendid musician;
-and as Wood said “A better fellow than Frank Sheppard never lived.”
-
-Frank Sheppard died in London, England, December 30, 1899; age about 37
-years.
-
-
-WOOD and SHEPPARD began their joint careers in 1885; shortly after
-Fred Bryant’s death they went to London, England, and played an
-_unsuccessful_ engagement. So far as the writer knows, where the
-performer is concerned, this was “the first and only unsuccessful
-engagement on record.” The intelligence is from the most authoritative
-source, from Billy Wood himself. Subsequently they played five seasons
-with the Howard Athenaeum Company; also successful engagements with
-Tony Pastor’s road show; Leavitt’s Gigantean Minstrels and Thatcher,
-Primrose and West’s Minstrels, two years, and in 1895, a feature with
-“Town Topics” Company.
-
-Shortly after this they went to London, and this time success was
-theirs, their engagements being extended on several occasions,
-after which they were equally successful in the principal cities of
-Continental Europe.
-
-
-DAN. E. LYONS entered the profession at the age of twelve years,
-subsequently joining James Leary, and as Lyons and Leary did an
-entertaining black-face specialty. They joined Hooley and Emerson’s
-Megatherians in 1879, and in 1882 in conjunction with Kelly and
-O’Brien, were with Billy Rice and Hooley’s Minstrels as the Megatherian
-Four.
-
-Lyons and Leary separated about 1886, and Mr. Lyons subsequently
-appeared with the Hyde and Behman Company.
-
-He was the author of several prominent songs, among which were
-“Cigarette McCarthy,” and “It’s A Long Lane That Has No Turn.”
-
-Daniel E. Lyons died in Boston, Mass., January 3, 1890; age 31 years.
-
-
-CHAS. GILDAY entered the profession as a partner of Frank Bennett;
-subsequently forming a “four” act with Charley Seamon, Tom Sommers and
-Billy Ginniven.
-
-Later they separated, and he and Ginniven formed an alliance which
-continued practically up to the time Mr. Gilday married Fannie Beane,
-August 1, 1877, at Deadwood, Dakota, after which and until his death
-they were known as Beane and Gilday.
-
-Charles Gilday was born in Detroit, Mich., about 1859; he died at sea,
-September 9, 1889.
-
-
-R. G. KNOWLES (Richard George Knowles), the well-known lecturer and
-globe trotter, began his professional career at the Olympic Theatre,
-Chicago, Ill., September, 1878, doing a black-face monologue.
-Subsequently he had as partners at various times, Joe. Morton
-(Hardman), Dick Ford, Ben Collins, Frank Kennedy and Charley Turner.
-
-Mr. Knowles has done more for the benefit of the American performer
-in England than any other one. He enjoys the distinction of having
-received a larger salary in Europe, than any other male performer
-doing a “single” act.
-
-R. G. Knowles was born in Hamilton, Canada, October 7, 1858.
-
-
-VIC RICHARDS (Harry Veerkamp) found out long ago that he could make
-more money as fun-smith than he could as a lock-smith, and forsook the
-latter for the former, and at once became a hit-smith.
-
-He first appeared professionally as the “Rube” in Frank Jones’ “Si
-Perkins” Company.
-
-His debut as a minstrel was with Sol San’s Company. Mr. Richards next
-allied himself with Dumont’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, where he
-continued for about twelve years--and that speaks volumes.
-
-In this year of 1910 he has arranged to do a nigger act with Dan
-Quinlan. That’s good enough, isn’t it?
-
-Vic Richards was born in Philadelphia, July 10, 1858.
-
-
-JEFF DEANGELIS (Thomas Jefferson D’Angelis), one of America’s foremost
-light opera comedians, played many black-face parts while in the stock
-of a San Francisco Theatre in 1878; but, to be exact, and skip a couple
-of years or so; at Bombay, India, June 8, 1881, with the Victoria
-Loftus Troupe, Mr. D’Angelis did an end on the first part and sang
-“Sweet Evalina” without permission from Hughey Dougherty. Yonkers, N.
-Y., papers, please copy.
-
-Jeff D’Angelis was born in San Francisco, Cal., about 1859.
-
-
-JOHN T. KEEGAN made his first appearance at Hyde and Behman’s Theatre
-in Brooklyn about thirty years ago, and immediately jumped into the
-front ranks of song and dance performers; his first partner was Connie
-Lynch, with whom he did a white-face song and dance; he remained with
-Lynch about two years. Subsequently with Jack Sheehan, Tom Haley and
-Harry Talbott, they formed the Four in Hand.
-
-Mr. Keegan was with Leon and Cushman’s combination, Thatcher, Primrose
-and West, and McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s Minstrels.
-
-In August, 1884, with his partner, Billy Wilson, and Hooley and
-Thompson, he did a “Four” act with Charley Reed’s Standard Minstrels in
-San Francisco.
-
-John T. Keegan was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., September 27, 1859, where
-he died June 1, 1902.
-
-
-JERRY CUNNINGHAM (Isaac Depew), made his first appearance in Albany, N.
-Y., doing a dancing turn; this was in 1869; on this auspicious occasion
-Jerry picked up $18.00 which was thrown to him on the stage; but
-remember that was 1869; in 1909, he would have had to split 50-50 with
-the manager, besides “greasing” sundry other officials.
-
-His first minstrel engagement was with Smith and Brown’s--sounds like
-a job in a hardware store to me, but Jerry says this actually happened
-in 1872. Variety engagements single and with Billy O’Day followed until
-1879, when he decided to do an old darky turn, imitating Harry Woodson;
-incidentally Mr. Cunningham could not have selected a better pattern to
-follow.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- GEO. THATCHER
-
- GEO. EVANS
-
- JIMMY MACKIN
-
- JOHN DALY
-
- GEO. H. PRIMROSE
-
- GEO. WILSON
-
-JUST GEORGES, JOHN AND JIM.]
-
-In 1882 he joined Billy Baker in Kansas City, doing a black-face act;
-this partnership lasted until 1885.
-
-Mr. Cunningham played character parts in “Oliver Twist,” “Streets of
-New York,” “Ticket of Leave Man” and other plays.
-
-In 1904 he joined Dumont’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, where he remained
-several seasons.
-
-Jerry Cunningham was born in Boston, Mass., September 27, 1859.
-
-
-HENRY E. DIXEY (Dixon), America’s most versatile actor, did the
-black-face act of “Funny Old Gal” in imitation of Billy Ashcroft, in
-Boston, Mass., about 1872.
-
-Mr. Dixey was born in Boston, Mass., January 6, 1859.
-
- * * * * *
-
-E. N. SLOCUM, famous as an interlocutor, sat on the end with Simmons
-and Slocum’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, April, 1874.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-“JACK” (E. L.) WILLIAMS, of the once prominent black-face team of
-Lester and Williams, died in New York, July 31, 1901.
-
-
-C. EDWARD DICKEN, a well-known interlocutor and singer of the
-present generation, who was with Cleveland’s Minstrels in 1895, and
-subsequently with Vogel’s Minstrels, died at La Salle, Ill., May 19,
-1900.
-
-
-GEORGE MARION, recognized as one of America’s most efficient producers
-and stage-managers, played the “bone end” with Lew Dockstader’s
-Minstrels located in New York, in 1888.
-
-George Marion was born in San Francisco, July 16, 1860.
-
-
-NED THATCHER, for many years prominent as one of the song and dance
-team of Thatcher and Hume, and later Thatcher and Adair, separated from
-the latter about August 1, 1887.
-
-Mr. Thatcher died in W. Superior, Wis., June 14, 1895.
-
-
-JAMES PELL (McGinty) was for several seasons the partner of Tom Lewis,
-whom he joined in a black-face act called the “Hottentot Musketeers”
-about 1877.
-
-After they separated in the early 80’s, Mr. Pell did sketches with Lily
-Wilkinson.
-
-He died at Taunton, Mass., October 16, 1887.
-
-
-FRANK C. DURELL (Otto C. Dickman), of the well-known Durell Twin
-Brothers, first appeared professionally at the Grand Opera House,
-Indianapolis, Ind., with his brother Ed., doing acrobatic black-face
-songs and dances.
-
-Subsequently they played engagements with W. W. Cole’s, also Sell’s
-Brother’s Circus. They toured the country for several years playing
-the principal variety houses, and were with Pat. Rooney’s and other
-well-known organizations.
-
-Frank C. Durell died in Indianapolis, Ind., March 25, 1898; age 39
-years.
-
-
-HURRAH FOR THE MINSTREL BAND.
-
- Dedicated to Harry Sanderson.
-
- Originally sung by Frank Lewis.
-
-
- There is not a man in the whole Minstrel Band,
- Who would ever go back on a friend;
- Tho’ dark be his face, yet the black can’t efface
- The kind deeds which through life him attend.
- I hear the trumpet sounding, sounding,
- In notes loud and clear through the land--
- I list to its voice, and it bids me rejoice;
- Then hurrah for the Minstrel Band!
- Then hurrah! then hurrah!
- Then hurrah for the Minstrel band.
-
- I will speak first of one who we loved in the past,
- He’d a heart that was noble and brave--
- Nelse Seymour, who never refused his last dime,
- If he thought you from hunger would save.
- I hear his praises sounding, sounding,
- In notes loud and clear through the land--
- The tall Son of York, he died at his work,
- And the pride of the Minstrel Band!
- And the pride!--and the pride!
- And the pride of the Minstrel Band!
-
- Brave Unsworth, he stood like a Minstrel so true!
- ’Till defeated at last by grim death;
- And Budworth, alas! broke his old banjo string,
- Which he loved ’till he parted with breath,
- I hear their dirge now sounding, sounding,
- In notes loud and clear through the land,
- They lived and they died with the boys that they loved,
- The dear boys of the Minstrel Band!
- The dear boys! the dear boys!
- The dear boys of the Minstrel Band!
-
- But now I must speak of the Prince of them all--
- Who is that but our own gallant Dan!
- Let every one mourn, for our Chieftain is gone--
- Dan Bryant! the Minstrel and Man!
- I hear his praises sounding, sounding.
- In notes loud and clear through the land.
- He lived and he died, both our glory and pride;
- He was King of the Minstrel Band!
- He was King! he was King!
- He was King of the Minstrel Band!
-
-NOTE.--Between February 2 and April 10, 1875, Nelse Seymour, Jim
-Unsworth, Jim Budworth and Dan. Bryant passed away.--AUTHOR.
-
-
-WILTON LACKAYE, one of America’s foremost actors, played Uncle Tom,
-in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” at the Academy of Music, New York, commencing
-March 4, 1901. There is no truth in the report that Mr. Lackaye is to
-head his own minstrel company next season.
-
-
-BILLY BENSON (James Corrigan), who was a clever female impersonator
-with various minstrel companies, died in Cincinnati, Ohio, April 29,
-1900.
-
-
-ARTHUR CHRISTIE was an exceptionally clever song and dance performer
-and comedian, and one of the Christie Brothers.
-
-He played successful engagements with the minstrel companies of McNish,
-Johnson and Slavin’s; George Wilson’s, Duprez and Benedict’s, and
-Rice’s World’s Fair Minstrels in 1890.
-
-Mr. Christie died in New Castle, Pa., April 12, 1899.
-
-
-CHARLES GUY, one of the famous Guy Brothers, entered the profession
-about 1873, doing a triple song and dance with his brothers George
-and Willie. He subsequently became identified with the Guy Brother’s
-Minstrels, and has continued with them ever since.
-
-Mr. Guy is exceedingly clever as a clown.
-
-He was born in Hoboken, N. J., July 4, 1860.
-
-
-WILLIAM GRAY (his correct front name is “Billy”), prominent for several
-years past as playwright and manager, and author of the “Volunteer
-Organist,” was one of the Glenroy Brothers, a black-face act twenty odd
-years ago when they played an engagement with Carncross’ Minstrels in
-Philadelphia.
-
-
-TOM LEWIS (McGuire). One night about ten years ago, Tom Lewis blacked
-his face for the last time, and at that precise moment minstrelsy lost
-one of its most brilliant lights and able entertainers. Mr. Lewis is an
-unctuous comedian; and that tells the story.
-
-He made his first appearance professionally with Charley Wilkinson’s
-“Uncle Tom’s Cabin” in the late 70’s with Jimmy Pell; and as Pell and
-Lewis they did a black-face act for several years, with no fears, as
-the “Hottentot Musketeers.” Later, and for two seasons he was one of
-the American Four.
-
-Mr. Lewis then went into the partnership business, first with Tom
-Martin; then Tom LeMack, then Charley Ernest, and finally Sam J.
-Ryan; with all of these he did black-face. Some of his more prominent
-minstrel engagements were--George Wilson’s; Cleveland’s; Haverly’s
-in Chicago; Carncross’, in Philadelphia, and with William H. West’s
-Minstrels, which was the last, season of 1899-1900.
-
-For the past few years he has been extraordinarily successful in
-“Little Johnny Jones” and the “Yankee Prince.” As Steve Daly in the
-latter play, Mr. Lewis has given to the stage a piece of clever, comedy
-characterization that is in a class by itself.
-
-Tom Lewis was born in St. Johns, N. B., May 18, 1860.
-
-
-HERBERT CAWTHORNE, with his brother Joe did a black-face act at the
-Grand Central Theatre, Philadelphia, in April, 1876.
-
-Several years later he was again “A Cork Man.”
-
-[Illustration: BERT. WILLIAMS.]
-
-
-D. W. MCCABE, well known as one of the proprietors of McCabe and
-Young’s Minstrels, which toured the country for several seasons, died
-at Moorcroft, Wyo., October 20, 1907; age 47 years.
-
-
-BILLY PAYNE, the well-known banjoist, made his first professional
-appearance in his native city in 1875, at the St. Charles Theatre,
-playing for Lotta to dance in the “Little Marchioness.”
-
-Mr. Payne’s first minstrel engagement came two years later.
-
-Mr. Payne married in 1881, and as Billy and Alice Payne toured the
-variety houses for several seasons; later he worked alone, and played
-the vaudeville houses.
-
-He joined Dumont’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, in 1903, for an extended
-engagement, and likewise did meritorious work in white-face, playing a
-comedy character part with the “Village Postmaster”; also in black-face
-was he partly responsible for the “Redemption of David Corson.”
-
-Billy Payne was born in New Orleans, La., July 16, 1860.
-
-
-CHAS. K. FRENCH (Krauss) made his first professional appearance in
-his native city in 1878, with the Sargent-Bailey Stock Company.
-Subsequently, as Master Vive Williams, he did a black-face song and
-dance in the variety theatres.
-
-Then came French and Palmer for a season in variety; then French and
-Perry Ryan, after which French and Alice Clarke played together for
-five years. Mr. French had by this time attained recognition as a
-banjoist.
-
-In 1887 he joined (Wm. Henry) Rice, (John) Hart and (Add) Ryman’s
-Minstrels; the following season he was with Barlow Brothers and Frost’s
-Minstrels.
-
-Subsequently he created the part of Uncle Ned in “In Old Kentucky,” and
-continued with the company for six seasons.
-
-Other black-face parts were Jim, in “Huckleberry Finn”; Uncle Joshua,
-in “Under Southern Skies,” and with Irene Bentley, in “The Girl From
-Dixie.”
-
-Then there was some more minstrelsy; Will Davis’ California Minstrels,
-in Canada, and Moran and Thomas’. A few years ago Mr. French “doubled”
-with “Buck” Sheffer, doing a “darky” turn.
-
-Also did he appear “outside of cork” with several prominent plays,
-notably “The Still Alarm”; “Blue Jeans,” and with James J. Corbett, in
-“Gentleman Jim.”
-
-Charles K. French was born in Columbus, Ohio, January 18, 1860.
-
-
-BILLY BUCKLEY (Delehanty) was an exceedingly clever black-face
-comedian, and played with many first-class minstrels and specialty
-companies including the Rentz-Santley Company in 1881, and the
-Gigantean Minstrels in 1882.
-
-Early in 1890 he doubled up with Billy Jerome and performed in the
-variety theatres.
-
-Mr. Buckley married Lizzie Daly, of the famous Daly family, about
-February, 1882; Vinie Daly, the clever dancer, is his daughter.
-
-Billy Buckley died in New York City, January 13, 1894.
-
-
-BOYD and SARSFIELD were known as the “Two Solitaries”; they became
-partners in the late 70’s, and continued until about 1887; as a
-black-face song and dance team they were considered good. About two
-years prior and up to the death of Boyd, he did an act with Frank Hines
-and wife; known as Boyd, Miller and Hines.
-
-Clarence Boyd (Maretta), died in Chicago, Ill., May 25, 1889.
-
-Steve Sarsfield, at last reports was in Chicago, an object of pity and
-commiseration.
-
-
-CHAS. R. BUGBEE, the well-known agent and manager of several minstrel
-organizations, began his theatrical career as a member of Woodson and
-Allen’s Minstrels, about 1881; later he was with Haverly’s Minstrels;
-with this company he played a cornet solo in the band, and was known as
-Charles Baxter.
-
-Mr. Bugbee was absent from minstrelsy for two years after the “Baxter”
-episode, when he was in the mercantile business in Philadelphia; after
-this came another two years in the same city as advertising agent of
-the Park and Walnut Street Theatres.
-
-Subsequently he was with the Haverly-Cleveland Minstrels; Cleveland’s,
-William H. West’s and Haverly’s (Nankeville’s) Minstrels; with the last
-two he was manager.
-
-Mr. Bugbee was general agent for Charles E. Blaney’s attractions for
-five years, and for a brief period in the Summer of 1908, was advance
-agent for Cohan and Harris’ Minstrels.
-
-Charles R. Bugbee was born in Philadelphia, August 8, 1860.
-
-
-FRANK CASEY, or little Frankie Casey, as he was known in the Fall of
-1873 with the Sharpley, Sheridan and Mack Company, was billed as “the
-best song and dance artist living.”
-
-A few years later he joined Everett Weslyn, and as Weslyn and Casey,
-the “Musical Wonders,” they played at Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels
-in Philadelphia in the Fall of 1877.
-
-Subsequent to the death of Weslyn, Mr. Casey formed an alliance with
-James Adams and Frank Howard, and as Adams, Casey and Howard they
-played many prominent minstrel and variety engagements, doing their
-comedy musical specialty; later Mr. Howard retired from the trio, and
-Adams and Casey opened with Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Minstrels in
-July, 1885.
-
-About fifteen years ago Mr. Casey gave a splendid interpretation of
-Pepat, the black-face comedy part in “Wang.”
-
-At the present time Mr. Casey is said to be doing an act in vaudeville
-with Dan Swift.
-
-
-CHAS. A. MASON, the well-known Dutch comedian, formerly Mason and
-Mason, also formerly Kelly and Mason, was very much a minstrel before
-gaining fame as Teutoner.
-
-In 1880 he was with Billy Arlington’s Minstrels, and up until 1887 he
-played extended engagements with M. T. Skiff’s Minstrels, likewise
-Whitmore and Clark’s.
-
-Charles A. Mason was born in Dürkheim, Bavaria, Germany, July 14, 1860.
-
-
-J. ARTHUR DOTY (Oakman) was a clever female impersonator, and a bright
-writer of sketches, burlesques, etc.
-
-In 1879 he worked with Fred Malcolm doing acts in the variety houses.
-
-September 11, 1886, he began an engagement with Simmons and Slocum’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia; subsequently, and for about eighteen months,
-he did an act with Belle Fairmont.
-
-March 23, 1879 he was announced to marry Eva Belfontaine, a
-non-professional of Denver.
-
-J. Arthur Doty died in Detroit, Mich., April 13, 1890.
-
-
-The three CRIMMINS BROTHERS made their first appearance as a team in
-1872, although John and Steve had preceded their younger brother in the
-profession about two years previous.
-
-They were among the earliest of the three brother acts in minstrelsy,
-and their services were eagerly sought after by managers in general.
-
-They were identified with such prominent organizations as Haverly’s;
-Sam Hague’s, Billy Arnold’s, California’s (Norcross’), and Sweatnam’s
-Minstrels.
-
-John Crimmins died while with Haverly; and Steve and Mike did a double
-act until about two years prior the death of the latter; Mike then
-worked with Emma La Mause, whom he married in 1882; subsequently
-associating himself with Tom Dunn.
-
-John Crimmins died in Chicago, February 7, 1884; age 26 years.
-
-Steve Crimmins died in Chicago, March 3, 1889.
-
-Mike Crimmins was born in Detroit, Mich. March 5, 1864; he died in
-Peoria, Ill., July 8, 1890.
-
-
-GEO. M. DEVERE made his first first appearance at Booth’s Theatre, New
-York, in 1872, in King Henry V, as a page--now for a new paragraph.
-
-The following year he made his first black-face appearance in the
-concert of Cook and Nelson’s Circus.
-
-From 1874 to 1878 he did a nigger act with Matt McElroy; 1878-79 he
-was associated with Joe. Flynn, of subsequent McGinty fame; also in
-black-face.
-
-When Tommy Devere died, George DeVere took his place with William
-Devere, and continued as the Devere Brothers, until the death of the
-latter in 1882.
-
-Some of the minstrel companies Mr. DeVere has been associated with
-were--Skiff and Gaylord’s, Welch and Barlow’s, Andy Leavitt’s, Welch
-and DeVere’s and Bill Friday’s--this troupe did not open on the 13th.
-
-Also did he play both white and black face parts in “Ninety and Nine”;
-“The Clansman”; “Rudolph’s Ambition”; “Captain Barrington”; “When
-Johnny Comes Marching Home” and many others.
-
-In 1889 he assumed the stage management of the Eden Theatre in
-Paterson, N. J., and remained ten years; subsequently was manager of
-the Bijou, same city, two years.
-
-Seasons of 1909-10 Mr. DeVere played the black-face comedy part in “The
-Traveling Salesman.”
-
-George M. DeVere was born in New York City, April 28, 1860.
-
-
-GEO. T. MARTIN, who was also known as George Trewellyn, began his
-minstrel career in Wales, 1874, where he sang in the choir, under
-Caradoc; subsequently, and for many years, appearing in concert work.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- “BUCK” SHEFFER
-
- HARRY BLAKELY
-
-(SHEFFER & BLAKELY.)
-
- WM. H. DELEHANTY
-
- THOS. M. HENGLER
-
-(DELEHANTY & HENGLER.)
-
- BILLY ASHCROFT
-
- JOHN W. MORTON
-
-(ASHCROFT & MORTON.)]
-
-In 1887 he made his first appearance in the United States, at Great
-Falls, Montana. Season of 1888-89 he was with the Bostonian Opera
-Company.
-
-Mr. Martin was instrumental in forming the famous Verdi Quartette of
-Boston, and was a member of it until 1897; subsequently he appeared on
-the Keith circuit.
-
-In October, 1899, he joined the Harry Davis Stock Minstrels in
-Pittsburgh; the organization was short lived, and Mr. Martin then
-identified himself with Primrose and Dockstader Minstrels, and
-continued with them until 1901. A concert tour was next; then William
-H. West’s (Ricaby’s) Minstrels in 1903, and Haverly’s (Nankeville’s)
-Minstrels, 1904.
-
-Mr. Martin joined the Al. G. Field forces in 1906, and has been a
-valuable acquisition with that company until November, 1910.
-
-A feature of Mr. Martin’s repertoire is the singing of the old Highland
-ballads in full Scottish costume. His voice, a pure cultivated tenor,
-after thirty-five years’ usage, remains as sweet as ever.
-
-George T. Martin was born in Cornwall, England, July 23, 1860.
-
- * * * * *
-
-As soon as Lew Dockstader was able to talk, someone asked him how he
-liked Hartford, Conn. Capitol, said the future merry minstrel; this was
-his first offence.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-THE ORIGINAL AMERICAN FOUR were Joe Pettengill, Peter Gale, Peter F.
-Dailey and James F. Hoey.
-
-Mr. Pettengill is authority for the statement that the team’s initial
-appearance was made in New York City, in the Fall of 1879. Originally
-two acts, Pettengill and Gale, and Dailey and Hoey, it was at the
-suggestion of Jac. Aberle that they combine and do a “four” act; the
-title, “American Four,” was given by Mr. Pettengill in honor of the
-theatre where they made their first appearance.
-
-About 1884 they split; Pettengill and Gale continued in the “four,” and
-Hoey played dates. Dailey and Hoey subsequently doubled, and continued
-as partners until 1888. Pettengill later did an act for several seasons
-with Nat Haines; of recent years he has been acting in an executive
-capacity.
-
-Pete Dailey was with Weber and Fields’ Company in New York for several
-seasons. He was a brother of Robert Dailey, the well-known comedian.
-
-Jimmy Hoey did a black-face monologue for several years, and later
-worked in white-face; he was great in black or white. He was the
-brother of Old Hoss Hoey. Mr. Hoey is now in retirement.
-
-Jos. Pettengill (Geiger), was born in New York City, January 13, 1854.
-
-Peter H. Gale (Durrigan), died in New York City, July 10, 1891; age 36
-years.
-
-Peter F. Dailey was born in New York City; he died in Chicago, Ill.,
-May 23, 1908.
-
-James F. Hoey was born in New York City, March 10, 1857.
-
-
-JACK SYMONDS (John P. Salmonde) began his career as a black-face
-performer in his native city in 1879, playing variety engagements until
-1885.
-
-Formed a partnership with Joe Hughes at Pensacola, Fla., in 1887, later
-this alliance was known as Symonds, Hughes and Rastus; subsequently
-Hughes retiring, Symonds and Rastus joined “The South Before the
-War,” remaining four years, after which Symonds and Rastus dissolved
-partnership.
-
-Mr. Symonds was afterwards identified with William Collier’s and other
-well-known organizations, and in 1899 a return to the “South Before
-the War” Company. Season 1900-01 with Gorton’s Minstrels; The Flying
-Jordans Company in 1901, when he toured China and Japan; returning
-to America, played vaudeville for several seasons, also at Dumont’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-Mr. Symonds has been working in white-face for the past seven years.
-“Jack” Symonds was born in Portland, Me., May 3, 1860.
-
-
-THE HIGGINS BROTHERS were well-known song and dance boys, and had been
-associated with some of the best minstrel companies, notably Primrose
-and West’s; Primrose and Dockstader’s, Gorton’s, and Lucier’s Minstrels.
-
-In 1892 while with the latter company, with La Barre and Mullen, they
-formed the Four Electrics.
-
-Jos. Higgins died in Providence, R. I., March 30, 1903.
-
-William Higgins died in Providence, R. I., September 11, 1905.
-
-
-DAN. DALY, of the great Daly family, brother of “Cap” Bill, Tom, Bobby,
-Lizzie, Margaret and Lucy Daly, and a great comedian, did a black-face
-act with his brother Bobby, Barney Fagan and another, called the “Black
-Surprise Party,” at the Howard Athenaeum in Boston, Mass., week of
-January 31, 1876.
-
-Dan Daly died in New York, March 26, 1904.
-
-
-EDDIE MANNING (Egan) was the protege of Billy Manning, and a comedian
-of unusual talent. His first professional appearance was about 1870.
-About 1880 he joined Haverly’s Minstrels, and remained with them
-practically until his death. Mr. Manning was born in Columbus, Ohio; he
-died there April 25, 1892; age 32 years.
-
-
-W. L. DOCKSTADER (Wm. Lee) is known to vaudevillians and others, far
-and wide, as the manager of the Garrick Theatre, Wilmington, Del.
-
-In the late 80’s in conjunction with Charles Dockstader, they traveled
-as the Dockstader Brothers, doing a black-face act.
-
-
-CHARLES TURNER (Trainor) made his first professional appearance with
-Sam Price’s Minstrels.
-
-About 1874, with his two brothers, he did a black face act in the
-variety houses three years. About December, 1877, he formed a
-partnership with Charley Gilday.
-
-He was with Haverly’s Mastodons; Rice and Hooley’s, also Carncross’,
-and Dumont’s Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-In 1896 he formed a partnership with John Murphy, which lasted
-several years. Outside of minstrelsy, Mr. Turner has been with David
-Henderson’s Extravaganzas, also the “Twelve Temptations.”
-
-Charles Turner was born in New York City, January 20, 1860.
-
-
-EDW. P. GILDEA, a song and dance performer, and early partner of Frank
-McNish, died in Rochester, N. Y., July 28, 1890.
-
-
-TOM ENGLISH is Irish, originally from Great Britain, now of New
-Britain. Wonder if he knows Charley Britting, the rotund restaurateur
-of New York?
-
-Mr. English did a musical act of more than ordinary merit. His first
-appearance was as an amateur in Turner Hall, New Britain, Conn., in
-1876. Four years later he made his professional debut with Heywood
-Brothers’ New York Serenaders.
-
-In 1881 he joined Hi Henry’s Minstrels, where for five years he was one
-of the features of that organization.
-
-After two years in the variety houses, Mr. English went to London, and
-subsequently most of the principal cities of Continental Europe.
-
-Returning to the United States, he joined Hyde’s Comedians, September
-5, 1892. Mr. English made several trips to Europe after his American
-engagement, and likewise met with success in Australia and South Africa.
-
-His last professional appearance was at the Palace, on the Isle of Man,
-August, 1902. He is now an old resident of New Britain, Conn.
-
-Tom English was born in Portarlington, Ireland, September 4, 1860.
-
-
-FRANK MCKEE, the well-known theatrical magnate, was press agent for
-Leavitt’s Gigantean Minstrels in 1882.
-
-
-ARTHUR JOHNSON, of the old song and dance team of Harrington and
-Johnson, is now with Mrs. Johnson’s Pickle Company. This is not a
-farce-comedy as one might believe, but a permanent organization with
-headquarters at Richmond, Va. The author hopes to sample those pickles
-on his next trip to the Old Dominion capitol.
-
-
-CHARLIE HAYWOOD (Wilson B. Howard) was one of the original members of
-the Clipper Quartette, organized in 1879, of which he was the bass
-singer.
-
-He remained with the quartette about three years.
-
-He was born in 1861, and died at Peak’s Island, Me., July 12, 1889.
-
-
-MATT MCELROY was a banjoist of uncommon ability. He made his first
-appearance with Hooley’s Minstrels in Brooklyn, N. Y., in 1876.
-
-In 1877 he joined George M. DeVere in a double banjo act, and continued
-with him two years, after which he worked with Harry Colby, as Devere
-and McElroy.
-
-Subsequently he had various other partners.
-
-In 1886 he married Nellie Mordaunt.
-
-Mr. McElroy was born in Boston, Mass., July 16, 1861; he died in
-Pittsburg, Pa., July 6, 1894.
-
-
-MARK MURPHY, the celebrated Celtic comedian, was not always thus. In
-the Spring of 1877 he was a member of Sargent’s Minstrels in California.
-
-Mr. Murphy was not born in Cork--but knows how to use it.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- (Courtesy of Byron Studio, New York)
-
-PRIMROSE AND DOCKSTADER’S MINSTRELS;
-
-Victoria Theatre, New York City, about March 1, 1902.
-
-Reading from left to right--Neil. O’Brien, Harry Howard, Edw. Le Roy
-Rice, Geo. Sinclair, Harry A. Ellis, Fred. Gladdish, Franklyn Wallace,
-Jas. B. Bradley, Wm. H. Hallett, Geo. Primrose, ----, Wm. Scott,
-Charles Parr, ----, ----, Eddie Leonard.
-
-Puzzle--Find “Slim Jim” Dukelan, “Mike” Latham and the Foley Twins.]
-
-
-WM. S. CLEVELAND for several years held one of the highest positions in
-the realms of burnt-cork amusements.
-
-It was of him that the late William H. West once said--“that he was
-the greatest executive that minstrelsy ever knew.” Like several of his
-contemporaries, he began his professional career in an humble capacity
-in his native town, and shortly after went away with a circus.
-
-In 1882 Mr. Cleveland was lithographer with Barlow, Wilson, Primrose
-and West’s Minstrels; the three succeeding years he was with the
-Gigantean Minstrels; Barlow, Wilson’s Minstrels, Cal. Wagner’s
-Minstrels and Hallen and Hart’s Company.
-
-July 30, 1885, he assumed the management of McNish, Johnson and
-Slavin’s Minstrels at the inception of that organization, and continued
-in that capacity for two seasons.
-
-July 18, 1887, he became manager for Haverly’s Minstrels, and one year
-later the famous Haverly-Cleveland Minstrels blossomed forth.
-
-A few years later Mr. Cleveland launched the company that bore his
-name, and the trade-mark continued as Cleveland’s Minstrels for several
-seasons; at one time there was three or four minstrel companies on the
-road under his name.
-
-In August, 1898, in conjunction with George Wilson, he organized
-the Cleveland-Wilson Minstrels, a splendid company that had a brief
-existence.
-
-His next minstrel venture was in Chicago, where on September 28, 1901,
-at Steinway Hall, he opened with Cleveland’s Minstrels; the season
-closed December 21, following. Two years later he returned to Chicago,
-and on October 31, 1903, he opened a theatre on Wabash Avenue, giving
-drama and vaudeville; the Iroquois fire of December 30 following closed
-the theatre.
-
-He re-opened March 5, 1904, with vaudeville and continued until
-December 10, at which time he bid adieu to Chicago, theatrically
-speaking.
-
-In the Spring of 1907 he embarked in the vaudeville agency business in
-New York, where he is now located.
-
-William S. Cleveland was born in Chillicothe, Ohio, about 1861.
-
-
-ED. ROSENBAUM, the well-known manager, was press agent for Cal.
-Wagner’s Minstrels, commencing about December 1, 1873; and not only
-that, but on April 8, 1881, at Hartford, Conn., in the American
-Theatre, sang “Old Black Joe.” In black-face? Well, certainly not green.
-
-
-JOE HART (Boudinot), now rated as one of the foremost vaudeville
-producers, but recently as one of the firm of Hallen and Hart, was a
-good black-face performer more than thirty years ago.
-
-For instance, January 24, 1880, at the Bowery Garden Theatre, New York,
-Mr. Hart was doing a song and dance called “My Little Treasure.”
-
-Also on the same bill appearing with Charles Allen, as Allen and Hart
-in a musical act.
-
-August 16, 1886, Mr. Hart joined Charley Reed with the Chicago
-Minstrels, in that city.
-
-September 11, same year, he opened with Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels
-in Philadelphia, where he met with conspicuous success with his banjo
-solos.
-
-Joe Hart was born in Boston, Mass., about 1861.
-
-
-NAT. HAINES (Wm. Vincent Frazee). And now comes Nat. You know Nat,
-do you not? Well, here’s the story of his life. He made his first
-appearance “acting up” at Dramatic Hall in his native city, in 1875,
-doing an acrobatic “Essence.”
-
-In February, 1876, he went to Harry Hill’s, also New York, where many
-a prominent performer of to-day received some of their best schooling;
-Mr. Haines hibernated at Hill’s for one year at $2.00 per--not year,
-but night.
-
-In 1877 he played his first minstrel engagement with Whitmore and
-Clark’s Company, and continued throughout the season. The next two
-years Haines was with Haverly, after which he rounded out a season with
-I. W. Baird’s Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Haines next “doubled” with Bob Richmond, and later with Hap
-Ward and Jim Brevarde they formed the Four Diamonds; this act was a
-glittering success, and like all good diamonds, was worth the money.
-
-Haines and Vidocq formed a partnership in 1884, and continued three
-years, after which Mr. Haines was one of the “American Four” for two
-seasons. In 1889 he again joined Vidocq, and were together two years.
-In 1891 he formed an alliance with Joe. Pettergill, and as Haines and
-Pettergill they played all the principal vaudeville houses for seven
-seasons. The famous “Pool Room” act performed by this duo, was one of
-the funniest skits ever seen.
-
-Mr. Haines again rejoined Vidocq, and continued with him until 1904,
-after which he performed a black-face monologue for several seasons
-with flattering success.
-
-About a year ago Haines and Vidocq for the fourth time united, and are
-at present together.
-
-Nat. Haines is unique in his particular line; always original and
-spontaneously funny.
-
-He was the first performer that conceived the idea of “planting” a
-hatchet in the head; since extensively copied.
-
-Nat Haines was born in New York City, June 16, 1861.
-
-
-TOM MARTIN, a well-known black-face performer, entered the profession
-at an early age, and at various times had as partners Johnny Ray and
-Tom Lewis.
-
-He had been stage manager at Pastor’s Theatre in New York about five
-years prior to his death. His last appearance was made there.
-
-He was born in Boston, Mass., in 1861; he died in Brooklyn, N. Y., July
-3, 1901.
-
-
-JOHN E. KELLERD, one of our leading actors, played “Uncle Tom” at the
-Academy of Music, New York City, for several weeks, commencing March
-18, 1901.
-
-Mr. Kellerd was born in London, England, May 14, 1861.
-
-
-LARRY DOOLEY was a genuine comedian, and although he looked funny
-because of his excessive avoirdupois, he was nevertheless legitimately
-humorous.
-
-At the immature age of 17, he enjoyed a local reputation as a song and
-dance performer in Galveston, Texas, where he had been for several
-years. He first appeared professionally at the Comique, in the above
-city, about 1874 with Barry Maxwell.
-
-A few years later he formed an alliance with James Ten Brooke, doing a
-black-face act. He continued with the latter a few seasons, and then
-formed a partnership with Ed. Sheehan, which lasted a year.
-
-Subsequently he played a long engagement with Carncross’ Minstrels in
-Philadelphia; other prominent organizations were Moore and Burgess
-in London, England; Primrose and West, and Primrose and Dockstader’s
-Minstrels.
-
-About fifteen years ago he created a black-face comedy part with Hallen
-and Hart in “The Idea.”
-
-Later he played in white-face with the “Volunteer Organist,” in which
-he was equally successful.
-
-About 1898, he rejoined Ten Brooke with Primrose and Dockstader, when
-they renewed former successes.
-
-Mr. Dooley was one of the greatest singing comedians in minstrelsy.
-
-Larry Dooley was born in Harrisburg, Tex., January 19, 1861; he died in
-Galveston, Tex., July 30, 1904.
-
-
-W. W. BLACK, the well-known basso who achieved prominence in such
-productions as “Isle of Champagne”; “Jack and the Bean Stalk”; also
-with Lillian Russell, Donnelly and Girard and other noted stars, early
-commanded the attention of the late Col. Mapleson, who desired to
-send Mr. Black abroad to have his voice cultured. Before this period,
-however, he had a thorough schooling in that best of all institutions,
-minstrelsy.
-
-Mr. Black was a member of Austin and Weir’s Minstrels in the late 70’s;
-subsequently he was associated with Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels and
-Simmons and Rankin’s Minstrels; likewise he was with McNish, Johnson
-and Slavin’s Minstrels in 1885-86-87; this was his last appearance in
-black-face.
-
-W. W. Black was born in Irvington, N. Y., August 10, 1861.
-
-
-WM. G. NEWMAN, the popular manager of the Garrick Theatre, New York
-City was billed as the “infant wonder,” singing a ballad at Sam Hague’s
-Minstrels in Liverpool, England, July 13, 1874.
-
-Mr. Newman was born at sea, March 24, 1861.
-
-
-GEORGE HALLEN (Smith), a brother of Fred Hallen, and of the black-face
-team of McAvoy and Hallen, was born in Ogdensburg, N. Y., November 14,
-1861; he died in Denver, Colo., November 27, 1888.
-
-
-JOHN E. CAIN is one of the cleverest delineators of the negro character
-before the public, and it is a distinct loss to minstrelsy that some
-such organization does not have him on their roster.
-
-His first stage appearance was at the Apollo Theatre, St. Louis,
-Mo., in September, 1874, with the Future City Minstrels, an amateur
-organization. Two years later he professionalized himself by joining
-Johnson’s Dixie Minstrels.
-
-In the Fall of 1876 he joined hands with Billy Wolf, doing a double
-Irish and Dutch specialty. Mr. Cain subsequently returned to his first
-love, and did the old-time act of changing from white to black, which
-he did in ten seconds.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- WM. EWERS
-
- DICK. ESCOTT
-
- CHAS. C. PALMER
-
- “SLIM JIM” DUKELAN
-
- CHAS. F. WARNER
-
- FRANK MEYERING
-
-PROMINENT MUSICIANS OF MINSTRELSY.]
-
-June 3, 1883, Mr. Cain opened at the Bella Union Theatre in San
-Francisco; his success was so pronounced that he remained one year;
-ultimately he remained on the coast for ten years, playing legitimate
-and variety houses, including engagements with Oliver Doud Byron, with
-whom he played principal comedy roles.
-
-Mr. Cain was promoter and builder of the Powell Street Theatre in the
-big coast city, which opened December 15, 1890. He next engaged as
-comedian with the C. D. Hess Grand Opera Company. In 1891 he joined
-hands with Harry Orndorf, and as Cain and Orndorf they did an old-time
-“nigger” act that was simply great; Mr. Cain, of course, doing the
-black-face part. They continued as a team for several years.
-
-Subsequently he became identified with the Rice and Barton Company,
-with whom he has mostly since been identified.
-
-Mr. Cain is happily married to Blanche Newcomb, the youngest daughter
-of the famous minstrel.
-
-John E. Cain was born in St. Louis, Mo., August 20, 1862.
-
-
-JENNIE YEAMANS, the famous daughter of a famous mother (Mrs. Annie
-Yeamans) played Topsy in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” in New York, October 20,
-1879.
-
-Miss Yeamans was born in Sydney, New South Wales, October 16, 1862; she
-died in New York, November 28, 1906.
-
-
-BOB CARMICHAEL was well-known as an able and popular minstrel leader.
-In the Summer of 1886 he was with Haverly’s Minstrels, and in the Fall
-of the same year he joined “Nobody’s Claim” Company; the following
-season he was with Sweatnam, Rice and Fagan’s Minstrels, and in 1888
-with Johnson and Slavin’s Minstrels. Subsequently he was associated
-with Primrose and West’s; his last engagement was with Harry Davis’
-Minstrels in Pittsburg, Pa., commencing October 9, 1899.
-
-Bob Carmichael was born in Salem, N. C., where he died November 27,
-1899; age 32 years.
-
-
-EDDIE MARKS (Peter E. Kenny), famous as one of the team of Griffin and
-Marks, whose “Silence and Fun” act is well remembered, played with
-his partner in all the principal variety halls of Europe, as well as
-engagements with Thatcher, Primrose and West’s; Haverly’s, Gorton’s and
-other well-known minstrel organizations.
-
-He had been in the profession about twenty-five years.
-
-Eddie Marks died in Jersey City, N. J., December 28, 1898; age 36 years.
-
-
-JAS. B. GENTRY whose performance as the rube sheriff in “Hoss and Hoss”
-is yet remembered, began his career about 1881, at Yorktown, Va., doing
-a black-face song and dance with George Leslie; they continued as
-partners for one year.
-
-About 1883 with Jack Noon he formed an alliance, and for one and a
-half years they played principal variety houses, doing black-face
-songs and dances. Another year and a half with Charles Johnson ended
-Mr. Gentry’s black-face career, since which time he has devoted his
-talents to characterizations which have placed him on a high place in
-his profession.
-
-James B. Gentry was born in Richmond, Va., October 8, 1862.
-
-
-JAS. B. BRADLEY, well and favorably known as one of the best lyric
-tenors in present-day minstrelsy, began his professional career in
-1884 at Memphis, Tenn., with the Ford Opera Company, in the chorus;
-following this came an engagement of five years with “The Hustler.”
-
-His first minstrel engagement was with Barney Fagan’s Minstrels;
-subsequently he was with such well-known companies as Al. G. Field’s;
-Primrose and Dockstader’s; Dockstader and Cleveland’s (Chicago, 1901).
-
-Mr. Bradley has been quite successful with a tabloid minstrel company
-in vaudeville.
-
-James B. Bradley was born in Charleston, S. C., November 9, 1862.
-
-
-LEW SULLY (Chas. Sullivan) began “cutting up” in theatres at Omaha,
-Neb., about thirty years ago; after he learned all about Omaha, he went
-across the river to Council Bluffs, Iowa, and engaged as stock comedian.
-
-Mr. Sully’s first minstrel experience was with the Beach and Bowers
-Company, and it sure was an experience. His salary was to be $15.00 per
-week and “cakes” if he was _good_. While he really went _bad_ in Dixon,
-Ill., he stood on the streets and told the population how good he was.
-
-Mr. Sully candidly admits that at that period he was a profound
-drinker; subsequently he became a profound thinker. Later he played
-successful minstrel engagements with Al. G. Field’s; Primrose and
-West’s; Primrose and Dockstader’s; Wm. H. West’s, and Dumont’s
-Minstrels. Also did he spend a period of five years intermittently
-with Carncross’ Minstrels in Philadelphia, and a season with Haverly’s
-Company.
-
-Mr. Sully is the author of “Hesitate, Mr. Nigger, Hesitate”; “I Don’t
-Love Nobody,” and other well-known songs.
-
-Lew. Sully was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., March 28, 1862.
-
-
-FRANZ VETTA (Louis R. Newmayer), the famous operatic bass singer, was
-also known as Frank Wetter in minstrelsy.
-
-He first appeared with Geo. Thatcher’s Minstrels in Philadelphia about
-1881; subsequently he played engagements with Haverly, and the Standard
-Minstrels in San Francisco.
-
-He was the husband of Lizzie MacNichol, the well-known opera singer.
-
-Franz Vetta was born in Camden, N. J., in 1862; he died in Riverside,
-Cal., July 15, 1892.
-
-
-GEO. W. CUNNINGHAM made his first professional appearance with Tommy
-Curran, as Cunningham and Curran, at Fraley’s Garden, Jeffersonville,
-Ind., in March, 1875, doing a black-face act; subsequently he formed
-an alliance with Ed. Talbott. In 1890 Mr. Cunningham and Ed. E. Grant
-became partners in one of the most amusing black-face acts on the
-vaudeville stage; for four years as “The Brutal Brothers” they played
-the best variety houses and combinations.
-
-Cunningham and Grant dissolved partnership in 1894, after which Mrs.
-Cunningham (Geneva Smith) and Mr. Cunningham did a white-face act for
-several seasons.
-
-July 20, 1908, the new firm of Geo. W. Cunningham and Herman Marion was
-born, and at two years of age is doing splendidly.
-
-George W. Cunningham was born in Brookville, Ind., May 18, 1863.
-
-
-BILLY PEARL (Jacob Allgier) was known from one end of the country to
-the other as one of the team of Marion and Pearl.
-
-Mr. Pearl’s first partner was Burt Marion, now of the team of Marion
-and Dean; subsequently he formed an alliance with Herman Marion,
-now of Cunningham and Marion. Mr. Pearl had been associated with
-Vogel’s; Cleveland-Wilson’s; Haverly’s (Nankeville’s); Primrose and
-Dockstader’s, and other first-class minstrel organizations, including
-Marion and Pearl’s Minstrels.
-
-Billy Pearl was born in New York, November 27, 1863; he died at
-Paterson, N. J., June 24, 1908.
-
-
-BILLY VAN (Van Name), famed far and wide as one of the most unique
-monologuists, began his professional career at Jeff. Staley’s in
-Jeffersonville, Ind., doing a black-face song and dance, about thirty
-years ago.
-
-Subsequently he doubled with Billy Bitt, a midget, and did a break-neck
-song and dance, and later was of the team of Van, DeVaney, Haley and
-Flynn. Following this he did a musical act with May Wilson for five
-years.
-
-Mr. Van’s next partner was Bob Turner, also in a musical act.
-Separating from Mr. Turner, he joined Haverly’s Minstrels.
-
-Subsequent minstrel engagements were with Al. G. Field’s; Gorman Bros.;
-Primrose and West’s; Haverly’s (Nankeville), and Wm. H. West’s (Ricaby).
-
-He also played feature engagements with Hopkins’ “Transatlantiques,”
-Fulgora’s, and Sandow’s Vaudeville Company, of which he was manager.
-
-About 1895 he toured with Billy Van’s Minstrels.
-
-Billy Van was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, November 25, 1862.
-
-
-JAMES COOK, of the favorite vaudeville duo of Cook and Lorenz, did
-a black-face act with Mort. Emerson, in Barlow, Wilson and Rankin’s
-Minstrels, about 1885.
-
-Besides being a good Cook; he can sing and dance and tell comical
-stories. Fact.
-
-
-JOHN W. VOGEL is the most prominent of non-playing minstrel managers of
-to-day.
-
-In 1901, after the death of Col. Haverly, Mr. Vogel assumed the title
-of “Minstrel King,” by which he has subsequently been known. Like so
-many successful minstrel executives, Mr. Vogel’s earliest training
-was with the circus; his first experience was with Sells Bros.’
-“Millionaire Confederation of Stupendous Shows”; this was in March,
-1882. In the Fall of that year he joined Thatcher, Primrose and West’s
-Minstrels at Cleveland, Ohio, as assistant agent; Mr. Vogel’s executive
-abilities showed to such advantage that he was subsequently made
-manager of the organization. Afterwards he piloted successfully such
-well-known minstrel companies as McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s; McNish,
-Ramza and Arno’s; Primrose and West’s and McIntyre and Heath’s.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- ARTHUR MORELAND
-
- FRANK DUMONT
-
- JOS. M. NORCROSS
-
- HARRY M. MORSE
-
- WM. H. HALLETT
- (Scherer Studio, New York City)
-
- VAUGHN COMFORT
-
-“MORE MEN OF THE MIDDLE.”]
-
-He also owned and managed Vogel’s Afro-American Mastodon Minstrels, and
-“Darkest America.” The present year of 1910 is the fourteenth season
-of John W. Vogel’s Big City Minstrels. He likewise managed the Al. G.
-Fields’ Minstrels for seven years.
-
-Mr. Vogel’s success is attested by his elegant Summer residence at
-Vogel’s Beach, Buckeye Lake, Ohio, and a Winter home in Columbus, Ohio.
-
-John W. Vogel was born in Chillicothe, Ohio, May 16, 1863.
-
-
-GEO. W. LEWIS is a dancer, is a producer and likewise an innovator; and
-there you have it all.
-
-Mr. Lewis made his first appearance with the I. W. Baird’s Minstrels,
-season of 1881-82; he was 25 per cent. of the “Midget 4”; the Whippler
-Twins and Stone constituting the other three quarters.
-
-From 1882 until 1883 he was a member of the Barlow, Wilson Minstrels;
-the next year he was with the Haverly troupe, followed by a season in
-the variety houses with the aforementioned Stone.
-
-McIntyre and Heath’s Minstrels followed the separation of Lewis and
-Stone, and in January, 1886, he transferred his allegiance to Wilson
-and Rankin’s Minstrels; at the end of the season he joined Thatcher,
-Primrose and West’s Company, and continued with them two seasons.
-
-Subsequently he was associated with Geo. Thatcher’s various companies
-for a period of four years. After this Mr. Lewis entered vaudeville and
-continued in it for several seasons, but returned to his old love in
-1897, when he went with Primrose and West’s Minstrels. The associations
-were so pleasant that the following year he joined Jack Haverly in his
-last minstrel venture.
-
-In the Spring of 1900 Mr. Lewis was with Primrose and Dockstader’s big
-minstrel show under canvas; here he produced the various dances and
-marches.
-
-Subsequently he was with “Simple Simon Simple” playing a “Rube”
-character; and with other well-known companies where cork was not
-used--except after the show. Mr. Lewis was with the Cohan and Harris
-Minstrels at their inception in July, 1908.
-
-He is now in vaudeville, and may go to Pottsville.
-
-George W. Lewis was born in Easton, Pa., August 28, 1863.
-
-
-THE ORIGIN OF “DIXIE.”
-
-At various times the authorship of this immortal melody has been
-attributed to various authors, but many years have passed since it was
-conceded that Daniel Decatur Emmett, one of the members of the original
-minstrel organization, was its legitimate sponsor.
-
-Conflicting dates have been given as to when it was first produced.
-Here is the only true version that was ever published:
-
-“At the request of either Dan or Jerry Bryant, on the tenth day of
-September, 1859, Dan Emmett was asked to write a ‘Walk Around’ for
-Bryant’s Minstrels, then located in New York City, at Mechanic’s Hall,
-472 Broadway. The next day (Sunday) it was put together, and the
-following night, September 12, 1859, ‘I Wish I Was in Dixie,’ was sung
-for the first time on any stage.
-
-A reproduction of the programme is shown elsewhere.
-
-This is absolutely the first time the proper date has been furnished.
-
-
-JOE HUGHES (Sovey) was raised in St. Louis, Mo., where he entered the
-profession as an amateur, doing a black-face single turn in 1882;
-as partners he had in turn a schoolmate whose name was Chamberlain,
-and later Billy Gray, playing his first engagement at Ninth and Pine
-Streets, St. Louis, for Howard and Alton, here taking the name of
-Hughes; subsequent partners were Billy Hart and Tom Glenn. In 1887 he
-doubled with Jack Symonds, and a year later a clever colored boy, known
-as “Rastus,” who was quite a dancer, was taken into the act; together
-they played all the principal variety houses as Symonds, Hughes and
-Rastus; their minstrel engagements were with Goodyear, Elitch and
-Schilling’s; Haverly’s; Carncross’, and Lew Dockstader’s; the trio
-separated in Philadelphia in July, 1895. Mr. Hughes then worked single
-for a year, and in 1896 he joined Frank Riley, an excellent old darky
-impersonator; as Riley and Hughes they remained a team for seven years;
-then one year with Jack Hallen, and on September 24, 1907, and ever
-since the firm has been known as Golden and Hughes.
-
-Mr. Hughes has a rich dialect, which he knows exactly how to use.
-
-Joe Hughes was born in Chicago, Ill., March 21, 1863.
-
-
-FRANK V. CHASE formed a partnership with Dan Swift about 1881, and made
-their first appearance at the Front Street Theatre, Baltimore, Md.,
-doing a black-face musical act--and an exceptionally good one.
-
-They played engagements with Johnson and Slavin’s, Primrose and West’s,
-and the Cleveland-Wilson Minstrels; they were with the latter in
-August, 1898.
-
-Frank V. Chase was born in Baltimore; he died there February 11, 1899;
-age 36 years.
-
-
-ANDREW MACK (Wm. A. McAloon), the favorite Irish singing comedian and
-actor, joined Thatcher and Ryman’s Minstrels in Philadelphia December
-27, 1880, and as Master Will Le Mack, singing “A Violet From Mother’s
-Grave,” met with phenomenal success.
-
-Other minstrel engagements followed, notably Cushman and Leon’s, 1883;
-Haverly’s, same year, and Barlow, Wilson and Rankin’s, about 1885.
-
-Mr. Mack was married December 2, 1887; and since then.
-
-Andrew Mack was born in Boston, Mass., about 1863.
-
-
-LOUIS BALDWIN, a well-known black-face comedian, who with J. Arthur
-Coburn formed the musical team of Coburn and Baldwin, began his stage
-career in his boyhood days, and played with well-known minstrel
-organizations.
-
-His last appearance was with the Barlow Minstrels, under the management
-of Mr. Coburn.
-
-Louis Baldwin died at Bloomington, Ill., January 9, 1903; age 40 years.
-
-
-CHAS. SHARPLEY, the junior member of the Three Sharpley’s, was an
-exceptionally clever musician, and gave promise of a brilliant future
-when death intervened.
-
-He died in New York City, December 29, 1879; age 16 years.
-
-
-DAN ALLMON, one of the younger generation of black-face performers,
-was prominent with Cleveland’s Minstrels in the middle 90’s; as an end
-man and monologuist he was first-class. His last appearance was with
-Nankeville’s Haverly Minstrels.
-
-Dan Allmon died at Vancouver, B. C., November 2, 1901; age 38 years.
-
-
-DAN QUINLAN (Daniel Cullinan) worked in his native city for several
-years in the rolling mills, and kept on rolling until he got his
-first professional engagement as property man with the Barlow, Wilson
-Minstrels in 1883. From this humble beginning Mr. Quinlan rose
-successively and successfully to the positions of stage manager,
-interlocutor, manager and finally proprietor. He was identified with
-such prominent minstrel organizations as McNish, Johnson and Slavin’s;
-Sweatnam, Rice and Fagan’s; McNish, Ramza and Arno’s; Geo. Wilson’s;
-Billy Van’s, and Primrose and West’s Monte Carlo Company, in which
-Geo. Wilson was starred. He was for six years with Al. G. Field’s
-Minstrels, serving in the capacity of interlocutor, stage manager and
-manager. Early in the present century Mr. Quinlan organized the Quinlan
-and Wall’s Imperial Minstrels, of which he was the proprietor, and
-conducted for several seasons.
-
-Mr. Quinlan’s first appearance in the “middle” was with Sweatnam, Rice
-and Fagan’s Minstrels at Philadelphia, about 1888; subsequently he
-broke away from the conventional style of the interlocutor, and instead
-of keeping his seat during conversations, he would walk about, to and
-fro on the stage, leaving it entirely at occasional intervals; this was
-a unique departure, and was apparently well liked.
-
-He likewise produced some original first parts, notably “A Reception
-to the Diplomatic Legion,” “A Day and Night at the Pan-American
-Exposition” and “International Military Bivouac.”
-
-Mr. Quinlan played vaudeville with Keller Mack, with whom he was
-associated since January 16, 1905. August, 1910, he formed an alliance
-with Vic. Richards.
-
-Dan Quinlan was born at Elmira, N. Y., April 21, 1863.
-
-
-OTIS SKINNER, the representative romantic and Shakespearian actor,
-during the week of February 18, 1878, at the Philadelphia Museum,
-played Jerry Blackburn in Frank I. Frayne’s production of “Si Slocum.”
-There is a suspicion that this was not Mr. Skinner’s only appearance in
-black-face.
-
-
-TOM LE MACK (McAloon), well known as a comedian and dancer, as well
-as the composer of such songs as “Phoebe,” “Little Johnny Dugan” and
-“The Wedding of the Lily and the Rose,” made his first appearance in
-minstrelsy at Heuck’s Opera House, Cincinnati, March 18, 1885, with
-Haverly’s Mastodons.
-
-Subsequently he appeared with Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Minstrels
-and other well-known companies.
-
-About fifteen years ago Mr. LeMack formed a partnership with Tom Lewis;
-they played vaudeville engagements, and a season with Donnelly and
-Girard in “The Rainmakers.”
-
-[Illustration:
-
- JNO. F. FIELDS
-
- FRANK HANSON
-
-(THE ORIGINAL FIELDS & HANSON.)
-
- CHAS. REYNOLDS
-
- GEO. REYNOLDS
-
-(REYNOLDS BROS.)
-
- EVERETT WESLYN
-
- FRANK CASEY
-
-(WESLYN & CASEY.)]
-
-Mr. LeMack was a brother of Andrew Mack, the famed singing Irish
-comedian.
-
-Tom LeMack was born in Boston; he died in New York City, February 26,
-1899; age about 35 years.
-
-
-RICHARD F. CARROLL, the well-known comedian, and a son of the famous
-R. M. Carroll, was a member of the great “Carroll Family” for several
-years in the 70’s, during which time he frequently appeared in
-black-face.
-
-Mr. Carroll was born in Boston, Mass., October 27, 1864.
-
-
-SAM BERNARD (Barnett), the favorite German musical star, was not always
-an assassin of the King’s English--not he. Away back during the season
-of 1883-84 at the Museum in Providence, R. I., he played the wench part
-in “The Fellow That Looks Like Me,” and played it so artistically that
-he received an offer of marriage from Henry White, a colored citizen of
-Providence, who thought Mr. Bernard was a real darky lady. Honest.
-
-
-J. HARVEY BRIGGS, a well-known singer, and composer of “Dear Old Stars
-and Stripes,” began his career with Robinson’s Circus while yet a boy;
-subsequently he was with the Barlow Minstrels for a season, and later
-joined the Gorton’s Minstrels, with whom he continued for five years.
-
-Mr. Briggs was married to Marguerite Eleanor, an actress.
-
-J. Harvey Briggs was born at Huntington, W. Va.; he died in New York
-City, March 30, 1904; age 40 years.
-
-
-SAM LEE is from the South; so there’s nothing extraordinary in the fact
-that he is a good black-face performer, which no one disputes.
-
-His first professional appearance was in 1883, with King, Burke and
-Company’s Circus; Mr. Lee played in the band, which recalls the
-additional fact that he is a skilled musician.
-
-After the circus came variety houses, where he first put on cork; this
-was in 1884.
-
-Mr. Lee’s minstrel career began in 1885 as a member of I. W. Baird’s
-Company; he continued with them for two seasons. The following year he
-joined the Goodyear, Cook and Dillon’s Minstrel Company.
-
-At Andover, N. Y., July 26, 1889, he allied himself with Gorton’s
-Minstrels, and remained with that organization twenty years.
-
-The season of 1909-10 Mr. Lee was with the Cohan and Harris Company,
-where he made a conspicuous success; his playing of the “bad nigger” in
-the afterpiece of that company was a clever bit of acting.
-
-Mr. Lee, while with the Gorton Minstrels, was associated with the late
-Joseph Gorton, Jr., for nine years in a musical act.
-
-Sam Lee was born in Lexington, Ky., November 24, 1864.
-
-
-TOMMY DONNELLY, or Thos. H. Donnelly if you want it all, is a
-comedian--no one ever said he wasn’t.
-
-He made his first appearance with Heywood Bros.’ Mastodon Minstrels at
-Athol, Mass., in 1885; it was Donnelly and Markham then.
-
-The next season he joined Hi Henry’s Minstrels, and subsequently
-appeared with such well-known organizations as George Wilson’s; McNish,
-Johnson and Slavin’s; Carncross’, in Philadelphia; Al. G. Field’s, and
-Donnelly and Hatfield’s Minstrels.
-
-Tommy Donnelly was born in Springfield, Mass., May 10, 1864.
-
-
-AL. CAMERON, formerly known as Alex Cameron, a prominent singer of
-latter-day minstrelsy, made his first appearance as a Madrigal Boy in
-Haverly’s Minstrels in 1888; subsequently he joined the Gorman Bros.’
-Minstrels, remaining with that organization for six years.
-
-Mr. Cameron afterwards was identified with Primrose and West’s
-Minstrels for seven seasons, also with the Al. G. Field’s Minstrels.
-
-Al. Cameron was born at Grenoch, Scotland, October 21, 1864.
-
-
-GEO. W. DAY. When a man can be a member of a prominent minstrel
-organization for a whole season without the knowledge of the proprietor
-of said organization, that man must have talents that are nothing short
-of abnormal. Such a man is Geo. W. Day, or such a man he was in 1892,
-when appearing before Leopold Fuenkenstein at the Central Opera House,
-New York City, told that gentleman in response to the question as to
-whom he had been with the previous season, Mr. Day says he joined Al.
-G. Field’s without a moment’s hesitation; he might have also added
-“without a moment’s salary.”
-
-Such was the beginning of the black-face career of Geo. W. Day, which
-has been devoted mostly to vaudeville, though light operas through the
-mediums of “The Pirates of Penzance” and “The Mascotte” saw him; he
-also appeared in “The Finish of Mr. Fresh” and “The Wooing of Mrs. Van
-Cott.”
-
-Mr. Day’s effusions are always given in neat, straight make-up, which
-has a tendency to enhance their value.
-
-Geo. W. Day was born July 29, 1864; that’s the very day.
-
-
-AL. REEVES is one of the greatest living examples of the “13” hoodoo
-killer.
-
-Right off the reel he started the thing going by getting born at No. 13
-Catharine Street; and there’s lots more to come; but all in good time.
-
-Mr. Reeves’ career started at Bunnell’s Museum and Theatre in Brooklyn,
-N. Y., about 1878; later he worked for Bunnell at Coney Island, N. Y.,
-twelve shows a day, seven shows a week, receiving the princely sum of
-17⁶⁄₇ cents a performance.
-
-His debut as a minstrel was with the Healy and Bigelow Company, where
-he did an act with the late Tommy Mott.
-
-Mr. Reeves then spent several seasons with real shows, and later a year
-at Carncross’ Minstrels, in Philadelphia.
-
-Then came Al. Reeves’ Specialty Company, and then the hoodoo. Mr.
-Reeves took over the Criterion Theatre in Brooklyn with the avowed
-intention of running burlesque companies within its portals. The
-intention was good, but at that time the “boss of the banjo” wasn’t
-aware that the house was in its thirteenth season, nor that he was its
-thirteenth manager; he found this all out at the end of thirteen weeks,
-when he gave up the management; the thirteen who had purchased tickets
-had their thirteen half dollars refunded.
-
-Nothing daunted, Mr. Reeves and his Big Beauty Show started on its way,
-and success has been his; so “give him credit, boys.”
-
-Al. Reeves was born in New York, May 30, 1864.
-
-
-EUGENE STRATTON (Ruhlman), who is at the present time one of the most
-pronounced favorites in England of any man that ever blacked his face,
-began his stage career about 1878 as one of the Four Arnold Brothers.
-
-On the 21st day of October, that year, he opened at Chicago with
-Haverly’s Original Mastodon Minstrels. He was a member of that company
-when they opened at the Drury Lane Theatre, London, England, July 31,
-1880.
-
-Shortly after this event he went to Moore and Burgess’ Minstrels in the
-same city, where he remained about ten years.
-
-In addition to being a good song and dance man, he also developed into
-a fine comedian.
-
-Eugene Stratton was born in Buffalo, N. Y., about 1864.
-
-
-MACLYN ARBUCKLE, the comedian, who may one day play Falstaff, was a
-member of the “Lambs’” Minstrels at the Metropolitan Opera House, New
-York, May 31, 1909.
-
-The story that Mr. Arbuckle had blacked nearly his whole anatomy
-before the veteran minstrel, Raymond Hitchcock, intervened and told
-Arbuckle that only the face, neck and chest needed the burnt cork, is a
-fabrication, pure and simple.
-
-
-ALBERT GUY has long been a member of the Guy Brothers Minstrels, where
-his superb baritone voice is heard to excellent advantage. As an
-interlocutor he ranks high.
-
-Mr. Guy has been associated with his brothers professionally
-practically his entire career.
-
-He was born in New York, January 7, 1865.
-
-
-CHAS. J. STINE, the well-known capable character comedian, whose
-efforts in some of the more prominent productions have brought him the
-prominence he deserves, made his initial bow as a performer as a member
-of J. N. Gilbert’s Minstrels--we all know Charley Stine, but--“has
-anybody here seen Gilbert?” This occurred at Ridott, Ill., in 1878;
-later Mr. Stine did shine as one of the stars of Horace Herbert’s
-Grand Constellation. Things were “Nip and Tuck” for a season, then he
-“troubadoured,” and then joined Goodyear, Cook and Dillon’s Minstrels.
-
-After several farcical affairs, Mr. Stine allied himself with George
-Thatcher’s “Tuxedo” and “Africa” companies.
-
-About 1893 he married Ollie Evans, and as Stine and Evans played
-vaudeville in this and foreign climes for several seasons.
-
-In 1901 he once again “blacked up” with Dick Jose’s Minstrels in San
-Francisco.
-
-Mrs. Stine died in January, 1908; subsequently Mr. Stine married Miss
-Barbara Daub, a non-professional lady, February 24, 1910.
-
-Mr. Stine’s most recent engagements were with Joe Weber’s Company and
-Max Rogers, of the Rogers Brothers, in “The Young Turk.”
-
-Charles J. Stine was born in Freeport, Ill., August 19, 1864.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- ANDY McKEE
-
- STEVIE ROGERS
-
-(McKEE & ROGERS.)
-
- GEO. W. CUNNINGHAM
-
- HERMAN MARION
-
-(CUNNINGHAM & MARION.)
-
- BILLY CHACE
-
- LEW. DAVIS
-
-(CHACE & DAVIS.)]
-
-
-CHAS. K. HARRIS, the famous author of the famous song “After the
-Ball,” and other famous successes, did a black-face banjo act for the
-Elk’s Minstrels in Milwaukee, Wis., about 1898. Mr. Harris was born in
-Poughkeepsie, N. Y., May 1, 1864.
-
-
-ARTHUR DUNN, the abbreviated comedian of many a lengthy musical
-success, was a black-face song and dance boy with Haverly’s Minstrels
-in 1881. But that was not the only black-face work that Arthur Dunn.
-
-Mr. Dunn was twenty-three years old, February 23,--1887.
-
-
-STUART BARNES, the well-known monologist, was formerly a black-face
-performer. Billed as the “Kings of Ethiopian Comedy,” in a plantation
-act called “Fish Heads,” Mr. Barnes and his partner played an
-engagement at the Harlem Museum, New York City, week commencing
-September 28, 1891. Be it understood that “Fish Heads” was simply the
-name of the act of Clements and Barnes.
-
-
-WILL VIDOCQ (Murray), of the favorite, featured, furiously funny team
-of Haines and Vidocq, contracted the actor fever in 1876, when he was
-one of the three Vidocqs, a white-face act. Subsequently he was of
-the well-known acts of Shannon and Vidocq; Hughes and Vidocq; Vidocq
-and Evans, and Thompson and Vidocq. But long before these he did a
-black-face turn with Dan. Lester, the old-time clown; this was about
-1879.
-
-He first formed an alliance with Nat. Haines in 1884; afterwards they
-rejoined each other in 1889, 1898 and 1909.
-
-Mr. Vidocq was born in New York, April 22, 1865.
-
-
-HARRY LEIGHTON, the well-known vocalist, made his first professional
-appearance at a Sunday concert in New York City, at Wallack’s Theatre,
-in 1886.
-
-His initial appearance in minstrelsy was with the Haverly Company, at
-Joliet, Ill., July 18, 1887.
-
-Subsequent engagements were with Carncross’ Minstrels in Philadelphia;
-Cleveland’s; Dockstader’s, in 1893; Thatcher and Johnson’s, and Vogel’s
-Minstrels. With the latter organization he has been ten consecutive
-seasons.
-
-Mr. Leighton has a peculiarly pleasing high-tenor voice, which he uses
-to the best advantage.
-
-Harry Leighton was born in Bradford, England--and that’s the best the
-author could get.
-
-
-BILLY JEROME (Flannery). Everybody knows that Mr. Jerome wrote the
-lyrics for some of the biggest New York successes, as well as such
-popular songs as “Rip Van Winkle Was a Lucky Man”; “He Never Came
-Back”; “Bedelia”; the “Volunteer Organist,” and scores of others; but
-everybody don’t know that “Billy” sat on the end with Barlow, Wilson
-and Rankin’s Minstrels in 1885, opposite to J. Marcus Doyle; nor that
-five years later with Billy Buckley did a good black-face talking and
-singing act. But he did, he did.
-
-Billy Jerome was born in Cornwall, N. Y., September 30, 1865.
-
-
-JOHN QUEEN (McQueen) achieved equal success as comedian and a song
-writer. He entered the profession in the early 80’s, and later as
-Queen, Stowe and Randall was the inventor of the trick house act used
-by them. He was a long time associated with Cleveland’s, also Vogel’s
-Minstrels.
-
-He was the author of “Get Your Habits On,” “All Alone,” and many other
-coon ditties that attained more than usual prominence.
-
-John Queen was born in New Orleans, La.; he died in New York, February
-23, 1902.
-
-
-“HAP” WARD (John O’Donnell) and HARRY VOKES, the famous farceurs who
-have headed their own organizations for several seasons past, have used
-burnt cork copiously and freely.
-
-Mr. Ward was a member of the Four Diamonds, a black-face act of about
-thirty years ago; and Mr. Vokes paraded in many a one night stand while
-with the Barlow, Wilson Minstrels about the same time. If you don’t
-believe it, ask Ward and Vokes.
-
-
-CHAS. HORWITZ, the well-known vaudeville sketch writer and collaborator
-with Fred Bowers in the production of many great song successes, did an
-“end” for one night, July 4, 1893, at Long Branch, N. J., with “Barney
-Fagan’s Minstrels” _without_ Barney Fagan.
-
-Mr. Horwitz was born in Milwaukee, Wis., and looks it.
-
-
-JOE. CAWTHORNE, one of America’s foremost comedians, played many
-black-face and minstrel engagements in his varied career. For instance,
-he and his brother Herbert opened at Sam Hague’s Minstrels in
-Liverpool, England, December 1, 1879. Doesn’t time fly?
-
-
-JAS. T. POWERS (McGovern), the popular light opera comedian, played
-“Useless Maguff,” a _nig_ in hard luck, in the drama of “Wide Awake” at
-Aberle’s Theatre, New York City, week of March 22, 1880; and he’s proud
-of it.
-
-
-GUS. PIXLEY. It’s not hard for him to be a happy Hobo--on the stage.
-
-It was just as easy on March 19, 1883, at the Standard Theatre, San
-Francisco, with Emerson’s Minstrels, to play Lady Angela, in the
-burlesque on “Pinafore.” Of course, he was a black Lady Angela; for
-those were dark days.
-
-
-DE WOLF HOPPER, the altitudinous comedian, was one of the features of
-the “Lambs’ Gambol,” in their minstrel first part of the Metropolitan
-Opera House, New York, May 31, 1909. He said, “Gentlemen, be seated,”
-and they did.
-
-
-LUCILLE LA VERNE, the favorite character actress, played Judith Clancy,
-the negro “mammy” in “Clarice,” at the Garrick Theatre, New York,
-October 16, 1906. Sounds more like an Irish “mammy,” don’t you think?
-
-
-ARTHUR DEMING is one of the most entertaining black-face performers
-before the public to-day. He has made St. Louis, Mo., his home for many
-years, and it was there he made his first professional appearance at
-McKinley’s Museum, October 7, 1888, in a black-face monologue. A short
-time afterwards he formed a partnership with Eddie Powers, together
-they joined Geo. De Haven’s Circus as clowns, also working in the
-concerts.
-
-In the Fall of 1889 his regular minstrel career began with the Vreeland
-Company, remaining two seasons. The next two years was Arthur Deming’s
-Minstrels, allied with Edwin De Coursey’s “A Stranger” Company. In 1893
-he joined Cleveland’s Minstrels, closing with that company; he made
-his first appearance with Hi Henry’s Minstrels, Christmas, 1893, at
-Carbondale, Pa.; he remained with the Henry Company until the end of
-the season of 1895-96. Arthur Deming’s Minstrels took the road season
-1896-97, and 1897-98 he was with the Haverly’s Minstrels. Vogel and
-Deming’s Minstrels, 1898-1900; “Don’t Tell My Wife” Company, 1900-01;
-a return to Hi Henry, 1901-02; a tour of vaudeville, 1902-03, and once
-again with Hi Henry, 1903-04; Geo. Primrose’s Minstrels claimed him for
-their own from 1904 until 1906; and vaudeville ever since, where he has
-met with universal success. Mr. Deming is now playing with much success
-the black-face comedy part in “Lower Berth, 13,” in Chicago, at the
-Whitney Theatre.
-
-Arthur Deming was born in Green Bay, Wis., May 20, 1866.
-
-
-RICHARD CARLE, the famous elongated comedian, author and producer, says
-he appeared several times as an amateur in minstrel shows, recalling
-one in particular at the Winthrop Yacht Club in Winthrop Beach, Mass.,
-in the Summer of 1889. Mr. Carle did a capital “end” on this auspicious
-occasion.
-
-
-HARRY BULGER, famous for his comedy creations in many Broadway
-productions, was one of the original members of the Al. G. Field’s
-Minstrels, whose initial performance was given at Marion, Ohio, October
-6, 1886; he was of the team of Bulger and Jenkins.
-
-Subsequently Mr. Bulger joined forces with Sherrie Matthews, doing a
-black face act.
-
-
-EMIL HEUSEL, of the German comedy team of Heusel and Walsh, played many
-black-face parts with Harrigan and Hart in the 70’s and 80’s, and was
-also a song and dance man with Barlow, Wilson and Rankin’s Minstrels in
-1885. He was born in New York, April 17, 1866.
-
-
-AL. HART, famous for his impersonation of Wang, in the opera of that
-name, as well as other prominent companies, came to the United States
-about 1880, and made his first appearance with Tuck’s Minstrels in
-Buffalo, N. Y., shortly after.
-
-In 1884 he was with Lester and Allen’s Minstrels as interlocutor. About
-February, 1885, he became a member of the famous Clipper Quartette,
-with whom he appeared for eight years, mostly in black-face. Mr. Hart
-was born in Liverpool, England, December, 1866.
-
-
-GREG. PATTI (Gregory Patti) is widely known in social circles in New
-York, Philadelphia and their environs as the “Little Comedian.”
-
-Mr. Patti defied all theatrical traditions by making his initial
-professional appearance on the thirteenth anniversary of his birth.
-
-Ten years later he organized the “Greg. Patti Minstrels,” since which
-time he appeared at various functions of the elite, among whom may be
-mentioned Mr. Pembroke Jones, Mrs. Stuyvesant Fish, Mr. William K.
-Vanderbilt, Jr., Mrs. James Speye, Mr. Roy Rainey, Mr. Paul Rainey, Mr.
-Juilliard, Mrs. Murray and many others.
-
-[Illustration: COHAN AND HARRIS’ MINSTRELS, 1908.]
-
-In addition he has shown with his merry little band at many of the bon
-ton clubs, notably, the Metropolitan (known as the “Millionaires”),
-Union League, Equestrian, at Sherry’s, all in New York City.
-
-Also at the Tuxedo, at Tuxedo; Fort Orange at Albany, N. Y.; Algonquin,
-at Bridgeport, Conn.; Lakewood Club, at Lakewood, N. J., and numerous
-others.
-
-Like his illustrious namesake and relative, Mr. Patti reaches for the
-high notes--and gets them.
-
-Greg. Patti was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., March 23, 1866.
-
-
-BOARDMAN CARNES was one of the best known vocalists in present day
-minstrelsy.
-
-He was long a member of the Quaker City Quartette, and had developed
-into being a fine interlocutor.
-
-He was associated with several first-class minstrel companies, notably
-Al. G. Field’s, with whom he was associated at the time of his death,
-which occurred at Pt. Pleasant, W. Va., December 29, 1907. He was about
-35 years of age.
-
-
-MATT. KEEFE. Minstrelsy has produced some very good Yodlers in the
-past; but old-timers, who should know, say that Mr. Keefe compares
-favorably with any of them.
-
-If Matt. Keefe had developed into a comedian instead of a vocalist, no
-one would have been surprised, because the honor of having been born
-next door to the house Mark Twain used to live, belongs to Mr. Keefe.
-
-He made his first professional appearance at Leadville, Colo., in 1887.
-Al. Fields Company was his first minstrel engagement; he was with
-Primrose and Dockstader, and Dockstader’s Minstrels, totaling six years.
-
-Season of 1908-09 saw him with Cohan and Harris’ Minstrels; and for two
-years he was with Tony Pearl in vaudeville.
-
-Matt. Keefe was born in Hannibal, Mo., August 13, 1867.
-
-
-EDWIN GUY, one of the famous Guy Brothers, has been a member of that
-minstrel organization many years. Mr. Guy is an eccentric comedian of
-unique methods.
-
-He was born in New York, May 4, 1867.
-
-
-TIERNEY and WAYNE formed a partnership in the early 80’s, doing
-black-face songs and dances.
-
-In 1885 they were with Barlow, Wilson and Rankin’s Minstrels; they
-continued in black-face until 1888 when they played white-face parts
-with “Zig-Zag.”
-
-Mr. Wayne subsequently married Anna Caldwell, and as Wayne and Caldwell
-they traveled several seasons.
-
-Mr. Wayne is still in vaudeville--with another Mrs. Wayne.
-
-Charley Wayne was born in Ft. Wayne, Ind., August 10, 1867.
-
-James B. Tierney died in New York, October 18, 1891; age 30 years.
-
-
-JOHN W. EARLY, a capable baritone singer, of late years with burlesque
-companies, was with Billy Rice’s Minstrels in 1897, and the following
-year became a member of Haverly’s Company; the last that famous manager
-ever exploited. Subsequently he was with Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels.
-
-In December, 1904, Mr. Early and Miss Late formed an alliance to do
-sketches; since then they have been playing--Early and Late.
-
-John W. Early was born in Dayton, Ohio, September 29, 1867.
-
-
-BERT MARION (John Ryerson) made his first appearance at the old Wigwam
-in Paterson, N. J., 1877, playing boy parts in white-face; shortly
-after doing black-face songs and dances, being known as Master Ryerson.
-
-At the age of 16 he joined forces with Dave Zimmer, doing a black-face
-act with him until 1890, when he formed a partnership with the late
-Billy Pearl, and as Marion and Pearl continued more than eight
-years, playing with such well-known minstrel companies as Haverly’s
-(Nankeville’s); Barlow Bros., Gorton’s, Cleveland’s, and two seasons
-under their own management with Marion, Pearl and Pendleton’s Minstrels.
-
-After separating from Mr. Pearl, Mr. Marion formed an alliance with his
-wife, Sabel Dean, and as Marion and Dean have played all the prominent
-vaudeville houses for more than ten years.
-
-Bert Marion was born in Paterson, N. J., August 7, 1867.
-
-
-HARRY “SCAMP” MONTGOMERY, well and favorably known as a capable
-delineator of black-face characters, with his brother Dave, now of
-Montgomery and Stone, appeared as one of the Montgomery Bros., the
-“Pullman Porters,” about 1888; a short time previous he had been with
-Forepaugh’s Circus. In 1889 he was with Beach and Bowers’ Minstrels,
-and subsequently with Crawford Bros. (Topeka, Kan.) Minstrels.
-
-Several years ago he joined Tony Pearl in a musical act, and as
-Montgomery and Pearl they played all the first-class vaudeville houses,
-as well as many high-class combinations.
-
-Mr. Montgomery created the negro part of Eaton Ham, in George M.
-Cohan’s “Geo. Washington, Jr.,” and played such other black-face
-character parts as Low Down Smith, in “Cape Cod Folks,” and Sylvester
-Q. Nightingale, in “Mary’s Lamb.” For brief periods he was “Sheppard,”
-of Wood and Sheppard, likewise “Bogert,” of Bogert and O’Brien; now
-Neil O’Brien, the great black-face comedian.
-
-During the World’s Fair in Chicago, he was the drummer in Sousa’s Band.
-
-The present season of 1910, Mr. Montgomery was especially engaged by
-Geo. M. Cohan to create the part of Abe. Gunther, in Mr. Cohan’s latest
-play, “Get Rich Quick Wallingford.” Needless to say, Mr. Montgomery
-made a decided hit--and in white face.
-
-“Scamp” Montgomery was born in St. Joseph, Mo., April 2, 1867.
-
-
-REES PROSSER sings a ballad in a manner that is entirely his own, and
-thereby hangs a tale; it’s a simple enough story; the answer being
-“He’s always engaged.”
-
-His first appearance was in his native state, in the city of Terre
-Haute, as a member of the Wabash Minstrels twenty years ago. Beach and
-Bowers was the first professional minstrel engagement; others were Al.
-G. Field’s, nine years; Cleveland’s, and Dockstader’s.
-
-June 1, 1910, “Rees Prosser” was murdered; some place in the far
-west. We ’uns in New York thought it was _our_ Rees Prosser; Mr.
-Prosser indignantly denied that he was ever shot; north, east, south
-or west; and his reputation for veracity is so good that argument was
-unnecessary.
-
-Rees Prosser was born in New Albany, Ind., September 13, 1867.
-
-
-WATERBURY BROS. made their first professional appearance with
-Vreeland’s Minstrels doing a straight musical act in 1892; the same
-year they played their first vaudeville engagement at Shea’s Music Hall
-in Buffalo. In 1894 they were joined by Chas. Kenna, the comedian, the
-act then was known as Waterbury Bros. and Kenna.
-
-In the Summer of 1895 Ernest Tenney replaced Kenna, and as Waterbury
-Bros. and Tenney they have since been known.
-
-Geo. N. Waterbury was born in New York City, December 14, 1867.
-
-Edw. M. Waterbury was born in Stamford, Conn., May 27, 1871.
-
-
-ERNEST TENNEY, one of the famous Tenney family who gave series of
-concerts some years ago, began his career as a member of the family
-August 6, 1882; the company comprising father, mother, sister, and
-four brothers, in addition to the subject of this sketch; he remained
-a member of this organization until 1889; engagements followed with
-an Uncle Tom troupe (no, reader, Mr. Tenney did not play Eva); after
-Tom came the Daniel Boone Company and a return to the family fold for
-a brief period; then an engagement with Gray and Stephen’s “Vesper
-Bells” Company, after which he joined Harry Whiting in a comedy musical
-act. In August, 1893, he joined the Four Emperors of Music, and in
-September, 1893, “Emperors” joined Cleveland’s Minstrels for a few
-months; June 15, 1895, he left Three Emperors and immediately joined
-the Waterbury Bros.
-
-
-WATERBURY BROS. and TENNEY have played the principal vaudeville houses
-since their alliance in 1893; also engagements with Cleveland’s,
-Primrose and West’s, Wm. H. West’s and Cohan and Harris’ Minstrels,
-also two seasons with Harry Williams Company, and a season with Sam
-Scribner.
-
-
-WEBER AND FIELDS, the famous German comedians, who for many years did
-all they could to disintegrate the King’s English, did a black-face act
-at Turn Hall, in New York, about thirty years ago.
-
-They were each born in New York City; Mr. Weber, August 17, 1867; Mr.
-Fields, December 31, 1867.
-
-
-ARTHUR C. RIGBY ranks with the best of present day monologists. Mr.
-Rigby has a unique style of delivery, pleasant address and excellent
-enunciation, all of which spell success.
-
-His first appearance was made in Paterson, N. J., as a member of St.
-Joseph Cadets Temperance Society, under the management of Con. Tracey.
-His debut professionally was made at Newark, N. J., in 1883, doing a
-black-face banjo solo.
-
-A few years later Mr. Rigby made his initial appearance with a minstrel
-company as a member of the Gorman Bros. organization; subsequently he
-appeared with Cleveland’s, Al. G. Field’s and Vogel’s Minstrels.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- BILLY O’DAY
-
- “SCAMP” MONTGOMERY
-
-This page is the exclusive property of “Scamp” Montgomery and Billy
-O’Day. Trespassers will be rigidly prosecuted.]
-
-And not only that, but he played black-face parts with Joe Weber’s
-“Hip, Hip, Hooray” Company; “Natural Gas” and “The Rainmakers;” with
-the latter originating the “darky” role in the play.
-
-Of late years Mr. Rigby’s talents have been displayed in vaudeville
-exclusively.
-
-Arthur C. Rigby was born in Macclesfield, England, April 4, 1867.
-
-
-SANFORD B. RICABY had his first experience in amusements as a
-bill-poster with Whitney’s Family Circus in 1884.
-
-Two years later he assumed the management of the Opera House in his
-home town, and continued in that capacity for three years.
-
-Subsequently he was identified with several well-known attractions
-until about ten years ago, when he became associated with Wm. H. West’s
-Minstrels; after the death of the latter, Mr. Ricaby purchased the show
-from Mrs. West, who had been requested by her husband to continue the
-minstrels with Mr. Ricaby as manager, after Mr. West’s decease.
-
-Sanford B. Ricaby was born in Hillsdale, Mich., May 26, 1867.
-
-
-WM. D. HALL, author, actor, playwright, manager and other things
-theatrical, says he had a serpentine career, although never having done
-a dance of that name.
-
-Mr. Hall’s stage career began as a “prodigy” at the age of ten; city,
-Baltimore; theatre, Odeon. Musical Comedy, drama, variety, vaudeville
-and minstrelsy has he also been associated with.
-
-He wrote the life of “Dan” Emmett, the immortal composer of “Dixie” and
-a play for the late Ernest Hogan; he also wrote several letters to the
-author.
-
-Mr. Hall began the present season of 1910 with Dumont’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia.
-
-He is a son of George L. Hall, the oldest living minstrel vocalist.
-
-Wm. D. Hall was born in Washington, D. C., December 25, 1867.
-
-
-WILLIE COLLIER (I always call him Willie), the favorite comedian, is
-just as funny in black-face as in white; at least he was on the night
-of October 12, 1896, when as a colored damsel he sang and danced in the
-performance of “Miss Philadelphia,” at the Park Theatre, Philadelphia.
-
-Mr. Collier was born in New York City, November 12, 1867.
-
-
-NEIL. O’BRIEN
-
-has long ranked with the great comedians that have tended to make
-minstrelsy famous.
-
-Mr. O’Brien portrays an eccentric negro of the South, a real flesh
-and blood darky, not an exaggerated caricature; and therein lies his
-success.
-
-Indeed his depiction of the colored man is so realistic, so artistic
-and so natural, that in the cities wherein they are so largely
-represented, during the performances in which Mr. O’Brien was a
-contributing factor, they would invariably argue among themselves as
-to whom among their number the counterfeit darky of the stage was
-most like; it’s Henry White, one would say, while another was equally
-positive Mr. O’Brien was imitating Jim Jackson, both of these gentlemen
-named being members of their “set.”
-
-[Illustration: NEIL O’BRIEN.]
-
-Mr. O’Brien first appeared theatrically in 1889 with the “Student
-Minstrels” in Binghamton, N. Y., and nearby cities; he sat on an “end.”
-He later was one of the team of O’Brien and Bell; they dissolved
-partnership in 1891, and the musical act of Bogert and O’Brien was
-formed in March that year, and they continued as partners for ten years.
-
-Mr. O’Brien was with Haverly’s Minstrels in Chicago in 1892, and
-remained one year; in 1898 he was again with Haverly on the last tour
-made by the famous manager.
-
-Seasons of 1896-97-98 he was with Al. G. Field’s Minstrels. He joined
-Primrose and Dockstader’s Minstrels in 1899, and continued with them
-until the dissolution of the organization in 1903.
-
-That same year he cast his fortunes with Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels,
-with whom he remained until the Spring of 1910. At the present time Mr.
-O’Brien is appearing in vaudeville with marked success in an elaborate
-black-face act called “Fighting the Flames;” as a raw fireman who has
-bought his way into the department, Mr. O’Brien is excruciatingly funny.
-
-Neil O’Brien was born in Port Dickinson, N. Y., July 16, 1868, and
-enjoys the distinction of having received one of the largest salaries
-of any minstrel performer.
-
-
-J. A. COBURN, proprietor and manager of the Coburn Greater Minstrels,
-has achieved considerable fame as a cornetist; to say that Mr. Coburn
-has blown his own horn since he was ten years old, is no reflection
-upon him whatever.
-
-Before starting on his minstrel career, he was cornetist with the
-Elgin, Ill., National Watch Company Military Band, and others. His
-first professional appearance was of the musical team of Trewetz and
-Coburn, in 1886. Subsequently in 1890 he joined Louis Baldwin in a
-comedy act, and continued with the latter until his (Baldwin’s) death.
-
-Mr. Coburn’s first minstrel engagement was with the W. S. Cleveland
-Company, in 1893.
-
-Five years later he was owner and manager of the original Barlow Bros.
-Minstrels; subsequently known as the Great Barlow Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Coburn rehearses and directs his own show, and has the distinction
-of being one of the best known men in the minstrel business.
-
-A fine home at Daytona, Fla., is a tribute that speaks volumes for his
-twenty-four years in the profession.
-
-J. A. Coburn was born in Boston, Mass., March 12, 1868.
-
-
-OF CORSE PAYTON blacked up. As a matter of cold fact, his first
-professional appearance was made at a county fair less than a million
-miles from Centreville, Iowa; Mr. Payton was the end man in a minstrel
-show there. Later he was with a repertoire company that acted “Uncle
-Tom’s Cabin;” and the report is that he played every character in the
-play including Eva; he only got cold feet when they insisted on his
-playing the “cake of ice.”
-
-Now to be serious--the king of 10, 20, 30 played Wool, a black-face
-part in the “Hidden Hand” at Payton’s Lee Avenue Theatre, Brooklyn, N.
-Y., commencing November 4, 1901.
-
-Corse Payton was born in Centreville, Iowa, December 18, 1867; and
-Centreville has never been sorry.
-
-
-EDDIE HORAN, the well-known dancer and producer, made his first
-professional appearance with Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Minstrels
-in 1885; subsequently appearing with the following prominent minstrel
-companies--Hi. Henry, three seasons; Al. G. Fields, five seasons, and
-two years with Wm. H. West’s Company. With the exception of the first
-mentioned company, he was general producer for the others.
-
-Ten years with three such organizations is a record of which Mr. Horan
-may justly feel proud.
-
-Subsequently he appeared successfully with several well-known dramatic
-companies; after which he returned to minstrelsy with The George
-Primrose Co.
-
-Mr. Horan has played vaudeville for the past few seasons.
-
-Eddie Horan was born in Hartford, Conn.--after Lew Dockstader.
-
-
-WM. H. HALLETT is well and favorably known as an interlocutor in
-present day minstrelsy.
-
-His first engagement with a minstrel organization was with the Wm. H.
-West Company in 1896.
-
-Subsequently he joined the Primrose and Dockstader Company, remaining
-three seasons, after which he identified himself with Lew Dockstader
-for the same period.
-
-Mr. Hallett then forsook cork for grease paint, and for two years was
-with Charley Grapewin in “The Awakening of Mr. Pipp;” at the end of
-that period (Mr. Hallett, not Mr. Pipp) felt uneasy, and no one seemed
-surprised, when at the opening of the season of 1908, our rotund
-interlocutor was found in his accustomed place with Lew Dockstader’s
-Minstrels, where he remained two years.
-
-He is now in vaudeville with Neil O’Brien.
-
-Before his minstrel engagements Mr. Hallett was with the “Gay
-Debutante;” “Sis Hopkins;” and the “Daughter of Cuba.” In none of these
-plays did he assume the title-role.
-
-Wm. H. Hallett was born in San Francisco, Cal., October 13, 1868.
-
-
-NED MONROE (Edwin James Pyle). Amusement seekers lost one of the very
-best black-face comedians of a generation when Ned Monroe forsook
-burnt-cork for grease paint; for one doesn’t have to be a modern
-Methusaleh to remember the act of Monroe and Mack.
-
-Mr. Monroe’s first partner, amateurly speaking, was Sam Gillespie, of
-Philadelphia.
-
-In the Fall of 1888 with Kellar Mack he formed a partnership, and they
-made their first appearance in Baltimore, as Monroe and Mack, at a
-joint salary of $40.00; the term “joint” does not necessarily apply to
-the place they played in.
-
-Altogether the act was one of the pronounced successes of vaudeville
-during the decade or so they continued as partners.
-
-After the dissolution, Mr. Monroe had various partners under the team
-name of Monroe and Mack. He also appeared successfully in farce,
-notably the “Prodigal Father,” “Johnny on the Spot,” “A Hot Old Time.”
-
-In 1897 with Jerry Hart, he starred in the “Gay Matinee Girl.”
-
-[Illustration:
-
- WILL H. MORTON
-
- SAM. GARDNER
-
- W. H. BROCKWAY
-
- G. W. H. GRIFFIN
-
- WM. H. WEST
-
- J. R. KEMBLE
-
- E. M. KAYNE
-
- E. N. SLOCUM
-
- SAM. WELLS
-
-“MEN OF THE MIDDLE”; ALL PASSED AWAY.]
-
-Mr. Monroe married Fern Melrose, an actress, about 1896.
-
-On the last day of January, 1901, he took to wife Miss Nellie Lawrence,
-a well-known legitimate actress, with whom he has been associated
-professionally practically ever since.
-
-Ned Monroe was born in Philadelphia, January 2, 1868.
-
-
-JOHN H. KING is such an excellent “rough wench” performer that his
-abilities as a good all-round comedian are sometimes lost sight of.
-
-Mr. King’s first theatrical engagement was with the J. G. Stutt’s
-Repertoire Company; they traveled in a coach--by easy “stages”; this
-was in 1887, and would you believe it? Mr. King played character old
-men.
-
-After this he doubled with Harry McDonald, and they played vaudeville
-for three years, doing a black-face specialty; then came a season
-with Bert Swor, under the team name of Swor and King. Mr. King
-afterwards joined Walter McMahon, and continued with him several years;
-subsequently his partner was Tim Barrett, but the team name of McMahon
-and King continued to be used; likewise when Frank Hammond and Mr.
-King were with Wm. H. West’s Minstrels in 1899. With the West (Ricaby)
-Minstrels he did a specialty with Fred Huber.
-
-His last partner to date was Earl Benham; and this was “some” act.
-Mr. King at various times has been associated with the following
-well-known minstrel organizations--Haverly’s, Primrose and West’s, Hi
-Henry’s, Frank Cushman’s, Billy Emerson’s, Billy Rice’s, Harry Davis’,
-in Pittsburgh, Pa., and Cohan and Harris’. Besides Mr. King there is a
-queen, and two lovely young princesses.
-
-John H. King was born in Atlanta, Ga., March 30, 1868.
-
-
-MAUDE RAYMOND, the vivacious _comedienne_, who is always charming in
-everything she plays, was none the less so as Topsy in “Uncle Tom’s
-Cabin,” at the Academy of Music, New York, commencing March 4, 1901.
-When she said, “Golly, I’se so wicked,” no one believed it.
-
-
-PAUL QUINN began his professional career as one of the team of Quinn
-and Welch, doing a black-face act with Georgie Melnotte’s Female
-Minstrels; subsequent minstrel engagements were with Barlow Bros.;
-Gorman Bros., and Primrose and West. In 1891 he became a member of
-the Big Four, playing the principal vaudeville time, and engagements
-with Cleveland’s, also Dockstader’s Minstrels, also Tony Pastor’s road
-show. Season of 1895-96 Kennedy and Quinn played Carncross’ Minstrels
-in Philadelphia. In 1896 Mr. Quinn appeared for the first time in
-white-face.
-
-Commencing in 1897 and for five years thereafter, Thomas and Quinn in
-“McFadden’s Flats,” and Halliday and Quinn in “Happy Hooligan” were
-under the Gus Hill banner.
-
-In 1903 Mr. Quinn wrote and starred in “The Funny Mr. Dooley,” with
-Charles H. Smith and the late Frank D. Bryan, this alliance lasted
-three years.
-
-He joined hands with Joe Mitchell in 1906, and as Quinn and Mitchell,
-they are now playing vaudeville.
-
-Paul Quinn was born in Lowell, Mass., June 29, 1868.
-
-
-GUS SUN, the present head of the big vaudeville circuit that bears his
-name, began his professional career as a co-proprietor of the famous
-Sun Bros. Circus, with which he was identified for several years.
-Later he organized the Gus Sun Minstrels, and was identified with it
-until the company closed in 1904.
-
-On October 1, that year, Mr. Sun opened in Springfield, Ohio, the first
-family theatre in that section of the country. July 1, 1907, ground was
-broken for the new Sun Theatre in Springfield, and on November 24, same
-year, it was formally opened to the public.
-
-During his active stage career Mr. Sun was recognized as a juggler of
-unusual ability.
-
-January 16, 1897, Mr. Sun was married to Miss Nellie Alfredo, of
-Youngstown, Ohio; three children, Louise, Nina and Gus, Jr., blessed
-their union.
-
-Gus. Sun was born at Toledo, Ohio, October 7, 1868.
-
-
-RAYMOND HITCHCOCK, whose unique personality in musical comedy has made
-him a popular favorite for several seasons past, took the place of
-George Evans with the Cohan and Harris Minstrels, February 12, 1909, at
-Auburn, N. Y., during Mr. Evans’ severe illness, and finished out the
-season with the company. That was not the first time Mr. Hitchcock ever
-blacked up; away back in--but never mind.
-
-
-EDDIE BOGERT, who joined hands with Neil O’Brien in a black-face
-musical act in March, 1891, was, prior to that of the team of Bogert
-and Henchett.
-
-Mr. Bogert retired from the profession about ten years ago, and is now
-engaged in business in Binghamton, N. Y.
-
-
-TIM MCMAHON (Barrett) was a barber in Philadelphia about fifteen years
-ago or so. While there he “scraped” an acquaintance with John King. The
-result--McMahon and King, McMahon and Chapelle, McMahon’s “Watermelon
-Girls” and McMahon’s “Pullman Parlor Maids.”
-
-How’d you like to be McMahon?
-
-
-NAT WILLS, famous for his tramp impersonations in vaudeville, Detroit
-and other municipalities, gamboled (notice the spelling) at the “Lambs”
-Minstrel show at the Metropolitan Opera House, New York, May 31, 1909.
-His make-up was a dark black.
-
-
-JAMES H. MANNING, of the once popular Silver Bells Quartette, of Baker
-Jones, Manning and Davis, with that great black-face act consisting of
-two males and two “wenches,” played all the first-class variety houses
-and were with Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels in New York, the greater time
-of their existence from 1886 to 1889.
-
-The feature of this act was the wearing of a set of bells around the
-waists of each, and during the song and dance they played these to the
-air of Barney Fagan’s “Wedding Bells”; and it may be truthfully stated
-that a prettier song and dance “four” act has never been seen.
-
-James H. Manning was born in Albany, N. Y., July 27, 1869.
-
-
-E. W. CHIPMAN (front name Everett) made his first professional
-appearance with George H. Irving’s California Minstrels in November,
-1884; Mr. Chipman was the bass singer, not the base singer of the
-company.
-
-After this came the Whitmore and Clark’s Minstrels and Hennessy Bros.
-Minstrels; then a painfully brief season with Chipman, Goss and Hyam’s
-Minstrels; but why dwell further?
-
-Mr. Chipman recovered, and joined Barlow Bros. Minstrels and remained
-with them as interlocutor for five years; he also sang.
-
-Subsequently he played engagements with George Arlington’s; Deming,
-Sweet and DeCourcey’s “A Stranger” Company; two seasons with
-Cleveland’s; Gus. Sun’s, three seasons; Wm. H. West’s, and Ed.
-Bartlett’s California Minstrels.
-
-It was while with the latter organization that Mr. Chipman conceived
-the dark design of becoming a burlesque manager; this was in Nyack, N.
-Y., December, 1898.
-
-In 1905 he was manager of the Colonial Theatre, Lawrence, Mass.;
-likewise did he manage for Rice and Barton’s Burlesque Company, two
-seasons; same period for T. W. Dinkin’s “Innocent Maids” Company;
-Ginger Girls and other girly girly companies.
-
-Altogether Mr. Chipman was twenty-one years in minstrelsy; nineteen of
-which he sat in the middle.
-
-E. W. Chipman was born in Lynn, Mass., March 13, 1869.
-
-
-FULTON BROS., the “Two Dromios of Minstrelsy,” so called because of
-their similarity in general make up on the stage.
-
-Their careers began in the early 80’s as stars of their own
-organization, the Fulton Bros. Minstrels, playing in the South, the
-tour was under the direction of their father.
-
-They subsequently in conjunction with Edwin Warren formed the “Orion
-Trio” and produced with much success in vaudeville the Fulton Bros.
-trick-house act called “A Hot Chase.”
-
-The brothers first important minstrel engagement was with Lester and
-Allen’s Minstrels in 1885; afterwards they were prominently identified
-with such high-class organizations as Thatcher, Primrose and West’s;
-Haverly-Cleveland Company and George Wilson’s. With the latter company
-they worked with Hi Tom Ward; the alliance was known as Fulton Bros,
-and Hi. Tom Ward.
-
-With George Wilson’s Minstrels they put on the big song and dance
-numbers.
-
-A few years ago the brothers separated for business reasons, William
-going into vaudeville, and James, possessing executive abilities equal
-to his terpsichorean talents, accepted the managerial position with the
-Golden Crook burlesque company five years ago, and has been with it
-ever since.
-
-James C. Fulton was born in New Orleans, La., December 17, 1869.
-
-Wm. T. Fulton was born in Pass Christian, Miss., October 12, 1871.
-
-
-KELLER MACK (Wm. S. Keller) formed a partnership with Ned Monroe in
-the Fall of 1888, doing a black-face act at the Baltimore Museum,
-Baltimore, Md.; as Monroe and Mack they played together until 1896;
-giving one of the very best black-face acts ever seen in vaudeville.
-
-Mr. Mack’s playing of the “straight” in the act ranked with the best.
-
-After the dissolution, Mr. Mack played for three seasons in “Town
-Topics,” doing comedy character parts in white-face; then a season as
-Finnegan, in “Finnegan’s Ball,” after which he rejoined Monroe, and the
-team duplicated their former successes, playing Koster and Bial’s in
-New York City for thirteen consecutive weeks; the partnership finally
-ceased a year later in Los Angeles, Cal. Mr. Mack again returned to
-farce, and played a white-face character part in “A Hot Old Time,”
-and Jonah, in “A Brass Monkey”; this was followed by two seasons in
-vaudeville with Tom Dempsey, under the name of Dempsey, Mack and
-Company.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- MORT. EMERSON
-
- WILLIS CLARK
-
-(EMERSON & CLARK.)
-
- BILL. DALY
-
- TOM. DALY
-
-(DALY BROS.)
-
-(The above four were known as the original King High Kickers.)
-
- FRANK DU RELL
-
- ED. DU RELL
-
-(DU RELL TWIN BROTHERS.)]
-
-Following this, Mr. Mack played the leading comedy part in “A Stranger
-in New York” and in “A Trip to Chinatown” he played Ben Gay.
-
-After this Mr. Mack returned to black-face, doing principal end with
-Quinlan’s Minstrels; when this company disbanded, he joined hands with
-Dan Quinlan, playing as Quinlan and Mack until 1910.
-
-Beyond a doubt Keller Mack is one of the most versatile performers we
-have; playing straight or comedy, black or white with equal success.
-
-Keller Mack was born in Philadelphia, July 10, 1869.
-
-
-RICHARD J. JOSE. Never in the annals of minstrelsy has any singer met
-with more phenomenal success than that achieved by the subject of this
-sketch.
-
-Mr. Jose came to this country as a boy, and shortly after secured a
-position as blacksmith in Reno, Nev., where he remained several years.
-Mr. Jose while at work was always singing, and his phenomenal voice, a
-pure contra tenor, attracted marked attention.
-
-His first professional appearance was with Charley Reed’s Minstrels in
-San Francisco, March 2, 1886. He remained with Reed until the season
-ended, April 10, following. A few weeks later he joined Birch and
-Cotton’s Minstrels for a brief road trip.
-
-In September, 1886, he joined Lew Dockstader’s permanent minstrel
-company in New York; here he remained about three years. George
-Thatcher’s Minstrels and Tuxedo Company had his services for two years.
-
-Mr. Jose next engaged with the “Old Homestead,” and continued for eight
-years with that time-honored favorite; after which he again returned to
-his first love and joined Wm. H. West’s Minstrels, with whom he was a
-feature for three years. His last appearance in minstrelsy was with his
-own company about 1901 or 1902.
-
-Subsequently he has devoted his talents successfully to vaudeville and
-dramatic work.
-
-Mr. Jose makes a feature of singing the old minstrel ballads. In
-December, 1909, he produced a play written around one of these old
-favorites, entitled “Silver Threads Among the Gold.”
-
-Richard J. Jose was born in Cornwall, England, June 5, 1869.
-
-
-WILLIAM H. THOMPSON began his minstrel career in Chicago with “Kelly
-and Leon’s” Minstrels in 1889.
-
-The following year he was with Cleveland’s Minstrels, and from 1890
-to 1893 he was with Primrose and West’s Minstrels. He then formed an
-alliance with Fred Oakland, and for four years Oakland and Thompson
-performed in the principal music halls of London and the provinces, in
-a great singing act.
-
-Mr. Thompson returned to the United States in 1897, and rejoined
-Primrose and West’s Minstrels for the season. Practically all of the
-ensuing time until 1910, when he formed an alliance with Will Oakland,
-has been with the companies of Primrose and Dockstader, and Lew
-Dockstader.
-
-Mr. Thompson is concededly one of the foremost baritones in minstrelsy.
-
-W. H. Thompson was born in Liverpool, England, October 28, 1869.
-
-
-JOHN L. SULLIVAN, the former champion pugilist, was the principal
-feature of the Lester and Allen’s Minstrels, season of 1885-86.
-
-Mr. Sullivan appeared in classic statuary poses; also New York,
-Brooklyn and Philadelphia.
-
-
-GEO. BEBAN began--in minstrelsy. He had to begin somewhere. Away back
-March 19, 1883, in San Francisco at the Standard Theatre, he was with
-Emerson’s Minstrels.
-
-The closing burlesque was “Pinafore”; and the man who can look and talk
-like Napoleon--before Waterloo--was one of the “rapturous maidens.” O!
-George, aren’t you awful.
-
-
-ED. LATELL, the well-known comedian and banjoist, made his first
-professional appearance at the Bella-Union Theatre in San Francisco, in
-1887. He subsequently was a feature of Cleveland’s, and George Wilson’s
-Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Latell is no longer a minstrelite, but a vaudevilleite. He was born
-in Los Angeles, Cal., about 1869.
-
-
-BILLY GOULD (Wm. J. Flannery), the brilliant versatile comedian, now
-once more of the well-known pair, Gould and Surratt, was a Madrigal Boy
-with “Emerson’s Minstrels” in San Francisco in 1883.
-
-Mr. Gould was married to Nellie Marietta Burt at Hurley, Wis., March
-24, 1889; subsequently he became the husband of Valeska Surratt.
-
-Mr. Gould was born in New York City, May 1, more than forty years ago,
-but not more than forty-five.
-
-
-GEORGE EVANS, famous the country over as the “Honey Boy,” so called
-from the fact that he was the author of the famous song “I’ll Be True
-to My Honey Boy,” has the distinction of being one of the youngest
-minstrel comedians heading his own organization.
-
-His first appearance was at Balser’s Music Hall, Canton, Ohio, in 1891,
-as a member of the Columbia Quartette; subsequently with Edwin Mayo’s
-“Silver Age” Company he was one-fourth of the Southern Quartette.
-
-Like many other good performers, Mr. Evans had his experience with
-medicine shows, one of which was the “East India Moon Plant” Company;
-he left this organization because he felt that the title of the company
-was not dignified enough, nor in keeping with his manifold talents.
-
-After some scouting he joined “Bamboo, or the King of Trampiana.” Mr.
-Evans is not a proud man, but he was sure that his ambitions could be
-better realized with this show; and he felt so for four days, when
-the “King of Trampiana” tramped--some place or other, Mr. Evans never
-exactly found where.
-
-This near-tragedy occurred in St. Louis, Mo., and Mr. Evans soon found
-himself at the Southern Hotel, in the Mound City. Is there any opening
-here? quoth our hero; there was; one of the bell hops, having acquired
-a competence after six consecutive weeks of faithful service, had given
-notice, and George was installed in his place, and remained--until his
-uniform had been paid for.
-
-Mr. Evans’ first minstrel engagement was at the Casino, with Haverly,
-in Chicago, 1892; he remained several weeks, and about January 1, 1893,
-he joined Cleveland’s Minstrels; subsequently he was with Primrose and
-West’s Minstrels, and in 1894 he returned under the Haverly banner.
-
-Shortly after this he launched forth as a singing comedian in
-vaudeville, and as such continued for several years.
-
-In musical comedy he starred in “The Runaways,” and “The Good Old
-Summer Time,” in which he appeared in white-face.
-
-July 27, 1908, at Atlantic City, N. J., he opened with Cohan and
-Harris’ Minstrels at the inaugural performance, heading the company.
-
-About March, 1910, at Newark, N. J., Mr. Evans became sole owner of the
-organization.
-
-He is the author of several popular songs, notably--“Standing on the
-Corner, Didn’t Mean No Harm;” “Come Take a Trip in My Airship,” and
-“Down Where the Watermelon Grows.”
-
-George Evans was born in Pontotlyn, Wales, March 10, 1870.
-
-
-BILLY S. CLIFFORD, whose impersonations of the “chappie” have made him
-famous the country over, made his first appearance with Hi. Henry’s
-Minstrels in 1882, as a drummer, and a black one. The next season he
-was one of the song and dance men with the Barlow, Wilson Company
-Minstrels; following this came engagements with Robinson’s Circus, and
-Miles Orton’s Circus, appearing in black-face songs and dances.
-
-In 1888 Mr. Clifford joined George Fuller Golden, and as Golden and
-Clifford they did a black-face song and dance act for two years,
-stopping only for meals and sleep.
-
-In 1888 he joined Al. G. Field’s Minstrels as an end man and comedian;
-it was here that he conceived the idea of the stage dude, which he did
-in black-face, and which has ever since been part and parcel of his
-performances.
-
-Mr. Clifford made his first appearance in white-face about twenty years
-ago, since which time he has starred successfully in “Courted Into
-Court”; “The Jolly Baron” and many others.
-
-He married Maud Huth, July 28, 1891, at Buffalo, N. Y.
-
-About six years ago he built and has since conducted the Urbana
-Theatre, in his native town.
-
-This season Mr. Clifford stars in “The Girl, the Man and the Game.”
-
-Billy S. Clifford was born in Urbana, Ohio, January 24, 1869.
-
-
-The famous FREEZE BROTHERS, Larry and Billy, had the distinction of
-being the champion tambourine spinners of the world.
-
-They made their first professional appearance at Newton’s Varieties, in
-Hartford, Conn., in 1879, doing a plantation song and dance; at that
-time they were the youngest black-face team before the public.
-
-The idea of the double tambourine spinning act originated in the
-fertile brain of their brother, John Freeze, well known as the manager
-of the Opera House in the hustling little town of Rockville, Conn.
-
-The brothers put on amateur minstrel shows in their home town, and
-their specialty was constantly improved upon by Billy Freeze until it
-attained the state of perfection vaudeville and minstrel lovers know so
-well.
-
-In 1885 they played their first minstrel engagement with Hi Henry’s
-Company; the two succeeding seasons they were with Lucier’s Minstrels,
-while the season of 1888-89 saw them with the Van Derveer’s Minstrels.
-Then came three consecutive seasons with Vreeland’s Minstrels.
-
-After this, five years of vaudeville, followed by a season with
-Primrose and West’s Minstrels, commencing in 1897; the next season they
-were with Wm. H. West’s Minstrels.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- BARNEY FAGAN
-
- R. M. (“DICK”) CARROLL
-
- TOMMY HYDE
-
- EDDIE HORAN
-
- JOHNNY DOVE
-
- WILLIS PICKERT
-
-SOME REAL DANCERS.]
-
-About 1900 they were engaged with the Barnum and Bailey Circus as a
-feature of the concerts; they played Russia, Austria, England, France,
-Holland, Hungary and other European States. In Paris the brothers
-played eighteen weeks at the Olympia. Their last joint engagement was
-with Cohan and Harris’ Minstrels, 1908-09.
-
-Larry Freeze was a dancer of more than ordinary merit. After his death,
-his place was taken by his brother Frank, whose funny antics as a clown
-have won him considerable recognition.
-
-Larry Freeze was born in Rockville, Conn., October 29, 1872; he died
-April 6, 1909.
-
-Billy Freeze was born in Rockville, Conn., December 25, 1870.
-
-
-JULIUS P. WITMARK. It will doubtless be news to many of this
-gentleman’s friends to know that his career began as minstrel singer
-just twenty-seven years ago, when as the “boy soprano” he made his bow
-before a New York audience with Billy Birch’s San Francisco Minstrels,
-August 27, 1883; this was in what was until recently known as the
-Princess Theatre.
-
-A brief respite after this engagement, and he next appeared as a
-“Madrigal Boy” in Gus Williams’ “One of the Finest;” he was also a
-“Madrigal” with Lawrence Barrett’s “Francesca di Rimini” and M. B.
-Leavitt’s Minstrels.
-
-Going to the Eden Musee in New York City after this, for a series of
-six children’s concerts, on Saturdays only; his success was so great,
-that the engagement was extended for eight months.
-
-He joined Thatcher, Primrose and West in the Spring of 1885, and the
-following season of 1885-86, he was also with this company.
-
-Mr. Witmark then eschewed theatricals for about two years, when his
-voice, then changed into a baritone, procured him a position with Billy
-Emerson’s Minstrels in San Francisco, where he remained six months,
-after which he rejoined Thatcher, Primrose and West early in 1889; this
-was his last minstrel engagement.
-
-Subsequently he met with much success in such famed organizations as “A
-Pair of Jacks,” “City Directory” and “A Trip to Chinatown”; he was also
-very successful in the brief vaudeville engagements he played.
-
-Julius P. Witmark was born in New York City, September 19, 1870.
-
-
-MONTGOMERY and STONE, who achieved fame as the Tin Woodman and the
-Scarecrow in “The Wizard of Oz” as well as “The Red Mill” respectively,
-and subsequently “The Old Town,” made their first joint appearance with
-Haverly’s Minstrels at New Orleans, February 16, 1895. Later they did a
-great song and dance act for several seasons, appearing in black-face
-as real gallus coons.
-
-About ten years before they formed a partnership, Mr. Stone played
-Topsy in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”; he was the best Topsy in the show.
-
-Dave Montgomery was born early in 1870.
-
-Fred. Stone was born later.
-
-
-BILLY B. VAN (Wm. Webster Vandegrift), the famous “Patsy” comedian, was
-a member of the “California Minstrels” (not the originals) during the
-season of 1882-83.
-
-The man who owned the show also owned a bird and fish store (live
-birds and fish); well, anyway, the “tour” suddenly closed in
-Mechanicville, N. Y.; Mr. Van not being a mechanic, could get no work
-in that prosperous little town, and sadly wended his way to New York,
-where the “manager” agreed to pay Van on his arrival in the metropolis;
-he did. Van’s “salary” was two canaries, ditto goldfish and one Belgian
-Hare.
-
-Mr. Van had plenty of hair at that time, so one more made little
-difference to him; being Friday, he ate the fish, and presented the
-canaries to a cat who promised to take good care of them. Mr. Van has
-used grease paint ever since.
-
-
-CLARENCE MARKS. Whether Mr. Marks’ name and fame will be handed down to
-posterity as a vocalist or a comedian, time alone can tell.
-
-His first professional appearance was made with a circus in 1888.
-
-In 1897 he joined the Irene Myers Stock Company, where for about six
-years he appeared in varied characters, including a “stag” after the
-show one night in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., in September, 1903, Dan Hart
-presiding.
-
-Mr. Marks’ first appearance in minstrelsy was with the Quinlan and
-Wall Company in 1904; subsequently with the following well-known
-organizations--Culhane, Chace and Weston’s; Primrose’s; Dockstader’s;
-Murphy and Gibson’s; Wm. H. West’s (Ricaby’s); and Dumont’s in
-Philadelphia.
-
-Season of 1909-10 he was with the George Evans’ Minstrels. One night
-the “Honey Boy” came back on the stage with tears in his eyes (that
-being the regulation place to have them); “I’m short an end man,”
-said the newly-made minstrel magnate, “who will volunteer?” “I will,”
-said little Clarence; and he did, and for the balance of the season
-Mr. Marks’ ponderous bass voice told every one of the trials and
-tribulations of one Casey Jones. And so our story ends. But Mr. Marks
-is still a “Honey Boy.”
-
-Clarence Marks was born in Philadelphia, December 12, 1871.
-
-
-JAS. J. CORBETT, pugilist, actor and vaudevillian, made his first
-appearance in black-face as a member of George Evans’ Minstrels at
-Plainfield, N. J., August 10, 1910. Mr. Corbett as interlocutor, was a
-splendid success.
-
-He commenced an engagement at the City Theatre, New York, August 13,
-1910, and says, “he will come back.” But will he?
-
-
-GEO. W. CHIRGWIN, the “White Eyed Kaffir,” is one of the most popular
-of England’s black-face performers.
-
-His first bid for fame was made about thirty years ago singing the
-“Blind Boy.”
-
-A few years ago Mr. Chirgwin played an engagement in the United States,
-where he made many friends.
-
-
-BERT SWOR, of the Swor Bros., made his first appearance with Haverly’s
-Minstrels in Chicago, doing a song and dance with John King. This was
-followed by ten years of stock work.
-
-Subsequently he played engagements with Haverly’s (Nankeville) also Wm.
-H. West’s (Ricaby) Minstrels.
-
-Two seasons in “The Wizard of Oz” and a return to vaudeville in a
-black-face act, depicting Southern scenes.
-
-Bert Swor was born in Memphis, Tenn., January 9, 1871.
-
-
-FRANCIS WILSON AS A MINSTREL MAGNATE.
-
- Kansas City, June 30, ’77.
-
- Ed. Clipper:
-
-Dear Sir--We left Philadelphia May 21 last, for a Western trip, and
-somehow we wish we hadn’t.
-
-We left the main road at Sedalia, Mo., for the lead mining districts of
-Missouri, being directed thither by “parties who knew” we would there
-find a bonanza. We didn’t.
-
-The recent heavy rains had made the mines unfit to be worked, and the
-miners were very poor. Prospects, notwithstanding this, were very good
-at Galena and Empire City, and to them we turned our faces, full of
-hope, but the sudden “taking off” of the notorious Tiger Bill by a
-“companion in arms” on the day of our arrival, was a topic that must
-needs be discussed in the open air, so the minstrels did not thrive.
-
-We are a most harmonious little concern, and our gentlemanly deportment
-is, everywhere we have seen, the topic of conversation. We receive
-daily very flattering and eulogistic notices from the papers, and have
-yet to see one dissenting criticism. We are perfectly independent, and
-under such little expense that we move anywhere with a very moderate
-income, and without any serious embarrassment. It is a great source
-of comfort to us to know that, but a trifle over a month old, we have
-outlived some much older concerns. We had no difficulty in obtaining
-the _Clipper_ even in Joplin and Short Creek.
-
-Our company consists of Mackin and Wilson, Chas. Sutton, “Bernardo,” J.
-H. Stout, Levino Bros. and Prof. Froude and orchestra.
-
- Respectfully yours,
- F. B. W.
-
-
-CHAS. W. MILTON, a well-known comedian who was known as the “Mansfield
-of Minstrelsy,” died in Milledgeville, Ga., November, 1909; age 39
-years.
-
-
-BARNEY GILMORE, Irish comedian, good fellow and matinee idol, did a
-black-face turn with Billy Kinsley in Philadelphia in 1888. Mr. Gilmore
-modestly admits that Schoolcraft and Coes did an act superior to
-Gilmore and Kinsley.
-
-
-“STUART” (Everett Stewart), who has achieved international fame as the
-“Male Patti,” began his professional career as a singer with McIntyre
-and Heath’s Minstrels in Springfield, Mo., in the Fall of 1887. And
-this is how it happened--“Tom” Heath sauntered into the Post-office at
-Wichita, Kan., one morning, just twenty-three years ago, and inquired
-if there was any mail for McIntyre and Heath’s Minstrels? Yes, indeed,
-there’s lots of letters for the minstrel boys, said a real gentlemanly
-voice back of the window. The deed was done, and a few days later,
-Stuart “blacked up” for the first time in his life.
-
-It was certainly a coincidence, that the boy who had daily for many
-weeks answered inquiries concerning missives that were not forthcoming,
-should sing, “The Letter That Never Came.” Mr. Stuart also began an
-engagement at Emerson’s Minstrels in San Francisco, August 6, 1888. And
-thus it was that the mail clerk became the “Mail Patti.”
-
-And that is the story of “Stuart.”
-
-[Illustration:
-
- Courtesy of
- White Studio, New York]
-
-FAMOUS MINSTREL FIRST PART OF THE “LAMBS” CLUB, METROPOLITAN OPERA
-HOUSE, NEW YORK CITY, MAY 31, 1909.
-
-
-GEO. FULLER GOLDEN, the famous founder of the White Rats of America,
-and one of the most intellectual performers that ever graced the
-vaudeville stage, did a black-face act with Billy S. Clifford from 1888
-to 1890.
-
-
-EDNA MAY SPOONER, the favorite emotional actress, whose popularity
-seems to know no bounds (especially in Brooklyn, N. Y., and
-Centreville, Iowa), played Topsy in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” more than once;
-but if you want a date, here it is--Bijou Theatre, Brooklyn, N. Y.,
-March 21, 1910. And how she did play it!
-
-
-BERT LESLIE, the slick slangster of several successful seasons,
-joined the Kickapoo Medicine Company No. 8, in November, 1892, doing
-a black-face specialty, in Tamaroa, Ill. Mr. Leslie attributes his
-present good health to the fact that he never took any of the medicine
-he was surrounded with; he says every time a bottle was sold it always
-made him “gag.”
-
-Bert Leslie (Wm. Albert Johnston) was born in Dubuque, Iowa, May 6,
-1871.
-
-
-WALTER MCMAHON, of the original team of McMahon and King, was also
-associated professionally with James Snider.
-
-After separating from Mr. King he worked with his wife, under the team
-name of McMahon and Kingsley.
-
-He died in Butte, Mont., December 22, 1899; age 27 years.
-
-
-ARTHUR LEOPOLD GUY is the junior member of the famous Guy family.
-
-He made his first appearance with his relatives in Cohoes, N. Y., in
-1876, at the immature age of four years.
-
-Young Mr. Guy was always ambitious, and seventeen years later was
-qualified to vote. His debut was made in white-face, as a singer;
-subsequently developing into a comedian of unusual ability.
-
-Mr. Guy early showed executive talents, and it was no surprise to his
-friends when on February 22, 1909, he organized and produced what he
-claims to be the originator of--giving a complete minstrel performance
-in vaudeville.
-
-Six years previous to this, however, he organized Arthur L. Guy’s
-Novelty Minstrels.
-
-Arthur Leopold Guy was born in New York City, January 26, 1872.
-
-
-MANUEL ROMAIN is the happy possessor of one of the most pleasing tenor
-voices in minstrelsy, and has the faculty of using it to the very best
-advantage.
-
-In 1893 he made his bow to a minstrel audience in New York, with
-Primrose and West’s Company. In 1895 he was with Cleveland’s
-Minstrels, subsequently playing extended engagements with Primrose and
-Dockstader’s, and later Dockstader’s Minstrels.
-
-In 1907 Mr. Romain entered the vaudeville field with an elaborate
-production entitled “Down in Music Row,” and met with flattering
-success. Two years later he produced “Before and After the Ball,”
-which, if possible, achieved even greater success than its predecessor.
-
-Manuel Romain was born in Cambridge, Mass., October 1, 1872.
-
-
-WILL F. PHILLIPS, whose clever portrayal of light comedy roles in
-“Havana,” the “Top O’ the World” and other Broadway successes, the past
-few years has brought him such deserved success, was a member of a
-stingy troupe with the explanatory title of the “American Minstrels,”
-in 1887.
-
-The company was sans band, sans five dollars collectively and sans
-nearly everything that could be sansed. They arrived in Haverhill,
-Mass., the same day as the Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Company, and
-when the latter made their noonday parade, the “American Minstrels”
-acted as trailers. Strange to relate, the T. P. & W. show did the
-business on that memorable, never-to-be-forgotten evening.
-
-Will F. Phillips was born in Albany, N. Y., October 31, 1873.
-
-
-EDDIE MAZIER is one of the cleverest of the latter-day minstrel
-comedians; for a performer who can sing and dance equally well,
-and tell a story in such a way as to bring out its best points, is
-certainly clever; and such is Eddie Mazier.
-
-His first appearance was as one of the team of Cain and Mazier, at
-Youngstown, Ohio, doing a black-face song and dance; the alliance
-lasted two years.
-
-Other partnerships were--one year as Morgan and Mazier; Wright and
-Mazier, three years, and Mazier and Conley, three years.
-
-Mr. Mazier was with Haverly’s (Nankeville’s) Minstrels, four years; two
-seasons with Primrose’s Minstrels, and with Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels
-1908-’09-’10-’11.
-
-Eddie Mazier was born at Niles, Ohio, March 14, 1873.
-
-
-HARRY C. SHUNK began his professional career with a repertoire company
-in 1887. He had to begin it sometime; and as 87 rhymed with Heaven and
-7-11, there was no trouble in reaching a decision.
-
-In 1890 he joined Beach and Bowers’ Minstrels; then came Sweeny,
-Alviedo and Goetz’s Minstrels. Mr. Shunk was now thoroughly seasoned,
-and became a member of Al. G. Field’s Minstrels, with whom he remained
-eight years.
-
-Subsequently he was a season with Carncross’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia, and off and on for seven seasons with Dumont’s Minstrels;
-same theatre; same city.
-
-Mr. Shunk played the black-face comedy part in “Hip, Hip, Hooray” a few
-years ago. We hope it won’t be such a long time before we see him again
-in something similar.
-
-Harry C. Shunk was born in Cardington, Ohio, October 25, 1872.
-
-
-CHAS. D. WILSON began his professional career in an humble capacity in
-his native city, where later he joined Primrose and West’s Minstrels as
-drummer in the band and orchestra.
-
-Mr. Wilson quickly displayed talents that gained for him promotion;
-and later he was made treasurer of the company. Subsequently he cast
-his fortunes with Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels, and became manager of
-that company a few years ago; he continued under the Dockstader banner
-several seasons.
-
-Mr. Wilson is at present engaged in an executive capacity with William
-A. Brady.
-
-Chas. D. Wilson was born in Seattle, Wash., June 10, 1872.
-
-
-AUGUSTUS PHILLIPS, a black-faced comedian? Well, not exactly a
-comedian, but honestly, it did seem funny to see this handsome leading
-man of the Spooner Stock Company at the Bijou Theatre, Brooklyn, N.
-Y., week of April 9, 1906, play Uncle Tom, in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” But
-then he played Othello about the same time; and that was even funnier.
-
-
-TOM WATERS was known as a Boy Prodigy several years before he achieved
-the popularity as a comedy pianist that later came to him.
-
-But his minstrel career, which is of primary importance to readers of
-this volume, began in 1892 as comedian and tambourine end with Charley
-Dockstader’s Minstrels.
-
-After some vaudeville playing, he joined Dumont’s Minstrels in
-Philadelphia about 1899, and remained there three seasons, part of
-which time he did an act with Bill Barlow.
-
-Mr. Waters is meeting with success in vaudeville with his specialty.
-
-Tom Waters was born in Shenandoah, Pa., January 10, 1873; and
-Shenandoah is proud of it.
-
-
-The DE RUE BROS.--Billy De Rue (Willis De Rue Eldridge) and Bobby De
-Rue (Robert De Rue Eldridge), come honestly by the varied talents
-they possess, for both of their parents were well known and capable
-musicians some years prior to the event of their interesting offspring.
-
-In 1883 the boys, in conjunction with their father and mother formed
-the 4 Brass Monarchs 4, traveling under this title for four years.
-In 1887 their father, Prof. R. D. Eldridge, organized the Eldridge
-Comedians and Concert Company, consisting of a first-part and variety;
-both Bobby and Billy made their debut as black-face performers here,
-each doing an end.
-
-In 1893 the family separated; the boys at this time taking the name
-of De Rue, by which they have since become so prominently identified.
-They subsequently appeared with such well-known minstrel organizations
-as Cleveland’s; J. H. Haverly; Hi. Henry; Gorton’s; Culhane, Chace
-and Weston’s; Hi Tom Ward and the Fulton Bros.; Ted E. Faust’s, and
-Washburn’s Big Double Minstrels. They likewise appeared successfully in
-vaudeville.
-
-July 15, 1904, De Rue Bros. Ideal Minstrels were launched, each
-successive year bringing them new friends and laurels.
-
-Billy De Rue was born March 6, 1873, at Conajoharie, N. Y.
-
-Bobby De Rue was born at Little Falls, N. Y., May 21, 1877.
-
-
-DOC. QUIGLEY (Dockery Quigley) enjoys the unique distinction of having
-spent his entire professional career in one minstrel company.
-
-Mr. Quigley joined Al. G. Field’s Minstrels at the age of sixteen as
-a song and dance performer. Since then he has been stage manager,
-comedian, producer and manager; and equally successful in each
-capacity; but Mr. Quigley’s grotesque dancing is a feature that one
-remembers for a long time.
-
-Doc. Quigley was born in Columbus, Ohio, July 17, 1873.
-
-
-FREDERICK V. BOWERS. The success of this young man lies in the fact
-that he is an actor that can act, a singer that can sing, and a dancer
-that can dance; truly a rare trinity of theatrical virtues.
-
-Mr. Bowers sang in the Grace Episcopal Choir in Boston, before starting
-out on his professional career, which began at Keith’s Old Theatre
-(Bijou) in his native city in 1888.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- JNO. F.--SHERIDAN & MACK--JAS. W.
-
- BEN COTTON, JR.--HARRY BOOKER--BOB BIRDUE
- EUGENE CANFIELD JOE LOVELY
- BURT WAYNE
-
- FRANK CONVERSE--TOMMY PEEL]
-
-Subsequently he was with Pauline Hall in “Puritana,” “Niobe,” “Prodigal
-Father,” and other first-class companies.
-
-In 1893 he joined Charles Horwitz, and as Horwitz and Bowers, for five
-years played the cream of the vaudeville houses, singing their own
-compositions, of which Mr. Bowers wrote the music; among the best known
-were “Always,” “Wait,” “Because,” and “When I Think of You.”
-
-Mr. Bowers’ first minstrel engagement was with the Cleveland Company,
-others were Frank Cushman’s, Dockstader’s in 1903, and Wm. H. West’s
-(Ricaby’s) in 1905.
-
-He was subsequently two seasons with McIntyre and Heath, in the “Ham
-Tree,” followed by as many seasons in vaudeville in his offering
-“College Days.”
-
-As a reader of a song Mr. Bowers has no superior in present-day
-theatricals.
-
-Frederick V. Bowers was born in Boston, Mass., June 11, 1874.
-
-
-PETE DETZEL hails from the home town of such celebrities as Johnny
-Jennings, Mark. Sullivan and Clarence Burton, naturally he must be good.
-
-His first professional appearance was with Hi. Henry’s Minstrels in
-1895, doing an end and acting as drum major; Billy Van’s Minstrels was
-next, after which Mr. Detzel says he “laid away” for a few months.
-But one can’t lay away much while idle, so he played two seasons with
-the Ted Faust’s Minstrels, and an equal length of time with Vogel’s
-Minstrels.
-
-The best part of the past three years have been spent with Dockstader’s
-Minstrels. Mr. Detzel is now a vaudevillian with Billy Cawley.
-
-Pete Detzel was born in Erie, Pa., November 25, 1875.
-
-
-BERT WILLIAMS. This truly great colored performer made his first
-appearance with Lew Johnson’s Minstrels twenty odd years ago; the
-remuneration was $12.00 per week and “cakes” with an occasional chunk
-of pie. His next minstrel engagement was with Martin and Selick’s
-Mastodons--salary no object.
-
-Mr. Williams decided on having a partner after this, and while in San
-Francisco met George Walker; the rest is fairly well known.
-
-Mr. Williams starred successfully in “Sons of Ham,” “Bandanna Land” and
-“Mr. Lode, of Koal.” The partnership terminated about 1909.
-
-Mr. Williams subsequently has played vaudeville, where he has been
-one of the most pronounced hits of years. Always working with corked
-features, he sings a song in a way that you always remember, especially
-is this true of “Nobody,” which will always be associated with his name.
-
-Mr. Williams is a truly unctuous comedian, and worthy and deserving of
-the distinction of having received by far the highest salary ever paid
-to any performer of his race.
-
-In New York in the Summer of 1910, he was highly successful in the
-“Follies of 1910.”
-
-Bert Williams was born on the Island of Nassau, British West Indies,
-November 12, 1874.
-
-
-THE BOWMAN BROS. are frequently spoken of as the “brilliant brothers
-Bowman,” and justly, too, for no duo of vaudeville performers to-day
-give greater promise than these two boys, whose versatility is a matter
-of much comment among artists of more lengthy experience.
-
-They have appeared in burlesque, drama, farce and minstrelsy, and in
-each have scored unqualified successes.
-
-[Illustration: WM. T.--BOWMAN BROS.--JAS. M.]
-
-Their first joint appearance was in a black-face specialty at West
-Point, Ky., in 1896; they then separated and played various individual
-engagements until 1902, when they joined the “Sandy Bottom” Company;
-with this troupe “Bill” Bowman did a minister, and “Jim” Bowman did a
-rube, which was not the right thing to do exactly; there is some excuse
-for “doing” a rube; but a minister--never.
-
-That same year they joined the stock at the Orpheum Theatre in Chicago,
-and in 1903 were with Miss Grace George in “Pretty Peggy.”
-
-Subsequently they did a black-face act with that “youth” Jack Sheehan;
-he of the “Four Planets,” likewise of the “Four-in-Hand.”
-
-Other legitimate engagements were the “Runaways,” and their own
-production of the “Isle of Mirth.”
-
-The seasons of 1907-08-09 were spent with Bob Manchester’s “Cracker
-Jacks” Company, where they resumed playing in black-face, and in which
-they still continue.
-
-July 31, 1909, they made their first appearance jointly with a minstrel
-company, when they opened at Union Hill, N. J., with Eddie Leonard’s
-Minstrels; Wm. Bowman playing on one end, and James Bowman officiating
-as interlocutor; and seldom in latter-day minstrelsy have these
-positions been more ably filled.
-
-James Bowman played individual engagements with Harry Ward’s Minstrels
-in 1900-01; with Robert Loraine in “The Tragedy at Trenton” in 1904 and
-Wm. A. Brady’s “Siberia” in New York in 1905.
-
-Wm. T. Bowman played individual engagements with Wm. A. Brady’s
-all-star cast of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” in New York in 1904, and that same
-year appeared with Wm. Morris in the “Business Man,” and Joe Welch in
-“Cohen’s Luck.”
-
-Wm. T. Bowman was born in Munfordville, Ky., February 4, 1875.
-
-Jas. M. Bowman was born in Munfordville, Ky., April 17, 1878.
-
-
-MRS. ARTHUR L. GUY is the wife of--Arthur L. Guy, naturally. For the
-past seven years she has enjoyed the unique distinction of being the
-manager of the Arthur L. Guy Novelty Minstrels, where she has displayed
-executive ability of pronounced order.
-
-
-BAILEY AND AUSTIN need no introduction to theatre lovers of the lighter
-forms of amusement, for most of us have seen these brilliant young
-artists in the “Top o’ the World,” and “Two Men and a Girl.”
-
-But as “corked comedians”--that’s different.
-
-Bailey and Madison did an acrobatic black-face song and dance about
-sixteen years ago; and Ralph Austin did a tip-top end with Al. G.
-Field’s Minstrels about the same time; he was also of the black-face
-song and dance team of Austin and Curran.
-
-Mr. Bailey deserves no credit for once having been a good black-face
-performer, for his mother (Polly Higginson) was a prominent dancer with
-the old “Black Crook” (near joke).
-
-Mr. Bailey was born in New York, November 5, 1873.
-
-Mr. Austin was born in Dayton, Ohio, about 1877.
-
-
-EDDIE LEONARD (Lemuel J. Tuney) says he entered his teens and Haverly’s
-Minstrels about the same year.
-
-With the minstrels he selected as his favorite, wholesome Billy Rice,
-of whom he was very fond.
-
-Mr. Leonard says he used to buy the New York _Clipper_ each week,
-and on these occasions he was immediately besieged by members of the
-company for “just one look”--which no one but Billy Rice ever got.
-
-Mr. Leonard subsequently was with Thatcher, Primrose and West’s
-Minstrels; Primrose and Dockstader’s; Haverly’s (Nankeville’s);
-Primrose’s, Dockstader’s Minstrels, and in 1908 was one of the features
-of Cohan and Harris’ Minstrels.
-
-A few seasons ago during the Summer months he appeared in New York on
-the New Amsterdam Roof in white-face as Texas Dan; subsequently as
-Dandy Dan on another roof; he scored a success on each roof with each
-“Dan.”
-
-Mr. Leonard’s prominence is due to the fact that he sings a song
-different from any other living performer; a sort of a crooning
-lullaby, that goes direct to the hearts of his audience; and the ladies
-say he dances divinely.
-
-Certain it is that this undoubtedly clever artist possesses that
-mysterious, indefinable attribute what we call magnetism, and possesses
-it to a large degree.
-
-Late in July, 1909, he headed Eddie Leonard’s Minstrels; also early in
-August--same year.
-
-Mr. Leonard, also in 1909, headed for the matrimonial altar; Miss Mabel
-Russell, daughter of the late W. J. Russell, of the old team of Le
-Clair and Russell, was his happy choice.
-
-Eddie Leonard was born in Richmond, Va., October 18, 1875.
-
-
-FRANK MORRELL, the “California Boy,” made his first appearance as a boy
-soprano with Cleveland’s Minstrels in 1890 at Los Angeles, Cal.; this
-was followed by an engagement with Sells Bros. Circus, with whom he
-went to Australia.
-
-Returning to his native heath he next appeared at the Bella Union
-Theatre in San Francisco, subsequently playing, an engagement with
-Haverly’s Minstrels in the same municipality; the latter being the
-high-brow term for the word city.
-
-Later, Mr. Morrell appeared with success with several burlesque and
-farcical attractions, and at various times was of the vaudeville teams
-of Morrell and Evans, and Morrell and Deely.
-
-After a five-year tour of England and Africa, he returned to the
-United States, and in 1906 formed one of the original members of “That
-Quartette,” and continued with them until 1908, when, Cohan and Harris
-seeking for the best vocal talent obtainable, cabled to Mr. Morrell,
-who was in England, an offer that he just simply couldn’t refuse. His
-success with this organization is a matter of theatrical history.
-
-In 1909 this clever young man made one of the most astonishing moves
-ever recorded; it was no more nor no less than making the jump from
-ballad singer to singing comedian, doing a black-face monologue that
-has given him already an eminent position in his new field of endeavor.
-
-Frank Morrell was born in San Diego, Cal., October 10, 1875.
-
-
-DANA H. CLAUDIUS, the well-known young banjoist, is now of the team of
-Claudius and Scarlet, but it was not always thus, for away back in the
-days of 1900, and until the month of February, 1902, Claudius and one
-Edmond Gilmore Corbin were members of the Primrose and Dockstader’s
-Minstrels, doing their classic act in black-face; after the last named
-date they worked in white-face. See James H. Decker for particulars.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- CHARLEY FOX
-
- CHARLEY HOWARD
-
- CHARLEY PETTENGILL
-
- CHARLEY REYNOLDS
-
- CHARLEY SUTTON
-
- CHARLEY REED
-
-THEY WERE THE “CHEERFUL CHARLEYS” OF MINSTRELSY.]
-
-Dana H. Claudius was born in Canandaigua, N. Y., June 1, 1875; and has
-been “hopping” ever since.
-
-
-“MINSTREL” BILLY CLARK (Wm. E. Clark) began his professional career in
-a theatre, and has been around theatres ever since; and this is how it
-happened.
-
-He entered his thirteenth year and the Powers’ Opera House in his home
-city at the same time, at the latter place he was usher; he ushered so
-well that he was promoted--he became scenic artist at the Grand--in
-Grand Rapids; this is not a joke.
-
-At eighteen he made his first appearance in black-face with a local
-minstrel show; subsequently he played character parts, and did a
-monologue in white-face.
-
-His first minstrel show was the Crawford Bros.; in 1895 he joined the
-Hi Henry Minstrels and continued with them for five years; then came
-Billy Clark’s Minstrels, followed by the season of 1902-03 with Wm. H.
-West’s (Ricaby’s) Minstrels.
-
-In 1903 he made his initial bow with Al. G. Field’s Minstrels,
-remaining until 1905, when he became a vaudevillian for two years; he
-rejoined Field’s in 1907 and remained two years.
-
-“Minstrel” Billy Clark was born in Grand Rapids, Mich., March 15, 1875.
-
-
-TRIXIE FRIGANZA, the popular young _comedienne_, celebrated the
-author’s birthday August 24, 1908, by blacking up and doing an end with
-Cohan and Harris’ Minstrels at the New York Theatre in New York City;
-she sang “I’m Glad I’m Married”--mind you, she only sang it.
-
-
-BEVERLY SITGREAVES showed her versatility at the New Theatre, New York,
-just previous to the new year in a new character which everyone knew
-would be a clever portrayal; and it was.
-
-She played the negro “mammy” in “The Nigger,” December 6, 1909.
-
-
-HARRY A. ELLIS (Ralph A. Grande), who was one of the singing duo of
-Ellis and McKenna, also a member of “The Quartette,” made his first
-professional appearance at Rahway, N. J., March 12, 1900, with the
-Heywood Comedy Company, in the play of “Mamma’s Pet.” It is the
-author’s impression that Mr. Ellis played the title role. “Mamma’s Pet”
-never had a metropolitan run; in fact, no run at all--but let bygones
-be bygones.
-
-April 28, same year, he joined Primrose and Dockstader’s Minstrels at
-their inaugural performance under canvas; this was at Newport News,
-Va., and Mr. Ellis sang “The Blue and the Gray,” and what’s better sang
-it so good that he was engaged for the regular season of the company a
-few months later, being the only vocalist of the “tenters” so honored.
-The tent season lasted about seven weeks.
-
-He continued with Primrose and Dockstader’s until the dissolution
-of that company in 1903; the same year he became a member of Lew
-Dockstader’s Minstrels, and remained four years. Eight years of
-minstrelsy in black-face. Mr. Ellis has a robust tenor voice of high
-quality. He is again with Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels, 1910.
-
-Harry A. Ellis was born at Potenza, Italy, February 20, 1876.
-
-
-HERMAN MARION (Etzer) joined Billy Pearl, doing a black-face act
-in Lowell, Mass., in April, 1899; and subsequently appeared with
-La Pearl’s Circus; Vogel and Deming’s Minstrels; Primrose and
-Dockstader’s; Gus. Sun’s; Haverly’s (Nankeville’s), and Washburn’s
-Minstrels.
-
-He continued with Pearl until the latter’s death; subsequently joining
-Geo. Cunningham, one of the original “Brutal Brothers,” and as
-Cunningham and Marion have met with success in a white-face acrobatic
-act.
-
-Herman Marion was born in Paterson, N. J., December 17, 1876.
-
-
-CECIL SPOONER.--This dainty, effervescent and charming bit of
-femininity, who has won enviable honors as America’s leading soubrette,
-and whose popularity in Brooklyn, N. Y., and other places, including
-Centreville, Iowa, seems to know no bounds, gave a delightful
-performance of Topsy in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” at the Bijou Theatre,
-Brooklyn, N. Y., commencing April 9, 1906.
-
-
-JIMMY DEVLIN entered the minstrel profession as a boy, and few were
-better esteemed.
-
-He was a clever dancer, but was best known for his baton swinging.
-
-We worked with Johnny Whalen for a time, and subsequently with Doc.
-Quigley.
-
-He was associated with Primrose and West’s; Al. G. Field’s and Wm. H.
-West’s Minstrels.
-
-Jimmy Devlin died at Pittsfield, Mass., July 31, 1901; age 24 years.
-
-
-EMIL SUBERS, the “Georgia Sunflower,” whose rich Southern dialect
-has delighted thousands, began life as a ballad singer in an amateur
-minstrel show in Macon, Ga., in 1897, after which for three seasons he
-was a member of the well-known repertoire company of Peruchini-Beldini.
-
-A couple of weeks with Harry Ward’s Minstrels in 1900, and then he
-joined Al. G. Field’s Company same year. In 1902 he became a member of
-Quinlan and Wall’s Minstrels, remaining two seasons.
-
-On Christmas Day, 1904, he joined Geo. Primrose’s Minstrels in
-Springfield, Mass., and continued with them until 1907.
-
-Mr. Subers subsequently entered vaudeville, and in 1909 formed an
-alliance with those clever black-face entertainers, Coakley and McBride.
-
-Emil Subers was born in Sparta, Ga., January 7, 1877.
-
-
-ARTIE HALL, in private life Mrs. Robert Fulgora, gives one of the most
-faithful portrayals of the Tennessee and Georgia negro ever seen on the
-vaudeville stage. Commencing March 18, 1901, Miss Hall gave a series of
-splendid performances of Topsy in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” at the Academy of
-Music in New York City.
-
- * * * * *
-
-JAMES GORMAN, one of the most prolific producers in the annals of
-minstrelsy, was the first to write a burlesque on the “Mikado” when
-that opera had such a vogue here many years ago. Mr. Gorman showed it
-with Haverly’s Minstrels in San Francisco in 1885. “The Princess of
-Madagascar,” one of the most pretentious offerings ever shown with a
-black-face organization, also emanated from the fertile brain of Mr.
-Gorman; and there were others.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-JOSEPH GORTON, Jr., was the son of the prominent manager of that name,
-and a musician and composer of extraordinary ability; no less than
-three operas, as well as several songs, have come from his prolific pen.
-
-He had been several years with Gorton’s Minstrels, and for about ten
-seasons he did a musical act with Sam Lee, as Gorton and Lee.
-
-Jos. Gorton, Jr., was born in Friendship, N. Y., May 30, 1877; he died
-there December 10, 1908.
-
-
-HARRY W. SMITH, the pleasing young bass vocalist and interlocutor, has
-a brief, but none the less meritorious professional career.
-
-It began in 1904, doing concert work; subsequently he was with Richard
-Carle’s and other musical extravaganzas. July 31, 1909, he became a
-member of Eddie Leonard’s Minstrels at their initial performance in
-Union Hill, N. J. In the Summer of 1910 Mr. Smith and Fred P. Russell
-launched Russell and Smith’s Tabloid Minstrels on the vaudeville sea,
-Mr. Smith acting as interlocutor, the duties of which he performs
-admirably.
-
-Harry W. Smith was born in Albia, Ia., November 3, 1878.
-
-
-GEO. M. COHAN. It will not surprise many to know that this famous young
-author-actor-manager-producer, etc., ever appeared in black-face; the
-year is said to be 1891, when he played Banty Bob in his father’s
-production of “The Molly Maguires”; nor must it be overlooked that he
-was co-proprietor and part producer of Cohan and Harris’ Minstrels, the
-first performance of which was at the Apollo Theatre, Atlantic City, N.
-J., July 27, 1908.
-
-George M. Cohan was born in Providence, R. I., July 4, 1878.
-
-
-STANLEY FORDE, whose ponderous bass voice has been heard to such
-excellent advantage in the “Geisha”; the “Talk of New York”; “The Man
-Who Owns Broadway,” and other popular successes, joined Primrose and
-Dockstader’s Minstrels at the Victoria Theatre, New York City, about
-March 1, 1902; singing a ballad in black-face. He finished the season
-with that organization, and the following one he toured with George
-Primrose’s Minstrels. Then Mr. Forde said, “Never Again”; but that’s
-what they all say.
-
-Mr. Forde was born at Buffalo, N. Y., February 9, 1878.
-
-
-FRANK LEIGHTON began his career as a black-face performer with a
-medicine show, June 1, 1897, at London, O.; joined Burt Sheppard’s
-Minstrels March 1, 1898, remaining until company disbanded at Waterloo,
-Wis., April 10, same year. With this company he formed a partnership
-with Ed. Elliott, doing a talking and dancing act; the partnership was
-dissolved January 15, 1899; Mr. Leighton shortly after became a member
-of the Vogel and Deming Minstrels, joining his brother Bert, with whom
-he has since been associated.
-
-Frank Leighton was born April 14, 1880, near Cowden, Ill.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- LUKE SCHOOLCRAFT
-
- GEO. H. COES
-
-(SCHOOLCRAFT & COES.)
-
- JAS. M. TIERNEY
-
- TIM. CRONIN
-
-(TIERNEY & CRONIN.)
-
- HARRY HOGAN
-
- GUS. HOGAN
-
-(HOGAN BROS.)]
-
-
-BERT LEIGHTON joined Barlow Bros. Minstrels (Ward, Coburn and Baldwin,
-owners), August 21, 1899, doing a black-face singing and dancing act
-with Walter Wilson, closing June 2, 1900. Leighton and Wilson opened
-with Vogel and Deming’s Minstrels, August 27, 1900; this partnership
-was dissolved later in the season owing to the ill health of Mr.
-Wilson. Mr. Leighton was joined by his brother Frank at Poughkeepsie,
-N. Y., December 8, 1900.
-
-Bert Leighton was born in Altamont, Ill., December 29, 1878.
-
-
-LEIGHTON and LEIGHTON’s first appearance as a team was at Poughkeepsie,
-N. Y., December 8, 1900, remaining the season. Other engagements were
-Vogel’s Minstrels; Pan-American Minstrels. September 15, 1902, they
-made their first appearance in white-face at the Howard in Boston.
-April, 1903, they joined Quinlan and Wall’s Minstrels. Considerable
-time was given to vaudeville before they made their appearance with Lew
-Dockstader’s Minstrels, July 23, 1904, ending May 8, 1905. July 14,
-1905, they began their second season with this company, terminating
-their engagement November 17, same year, since which time they have
-been playing the best houses in vaudeville; their present offering “A
-One Night Stand in Minstrelsy” is a gem of its kind.
-
-The Messrs. Leighton in addition to being exceptionally clever dancers,
-are authors of several songs that are recognized successes, among them
-are--“There’s A Dark Man Coming With A Bundle”; “Eb’ry Dollar Carries
-Trubbles Ob Its Own”; “The Message of the Old Church Bell”; “Ain’t Dat
-A Shame”; “Casey Jones” and others.
-
-
-JOE LEIGHTON (Le Strange), better known as “Rags,” made his first
-appearance with Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels, at Harrisburg, Pa., October
-31, 1904, remaining until November 23, 1906; shortly after this he
-joined the Leighton Brothers, the alliance being known as the Three
-Leightons: he has been with them ever since, except for a brief period
-in the early part of the season of 1908, when he was with Cohan and
-Harris’ Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Leighton is an eccentric dancer of uncommon ability.
-
-Joe Leighton was born in New York City, October 7, 1887.
-
-
-BILLY BEARD. This really clever performer who styles himself “The Party
-from the South,” actually is from that interesting part of the country
-which has produced so many capable burnt-corkers.
-
-His story is best told in his own language, and here it is--“Trouped
-with Hypnotists, Magicians and sundry other “one night organizations”
-including a season in repertoire at 10-20 and 30; the above includes
-several journeys on foot and on top of box-cars.”
-
-Mr. Beard has an engaging personality which brought him engagements
-with Ricaby’s “West’s” Minstrels; Nankeville’s “Haverly’s” Minstrels,
-George Primrose’s Minstrels and Ted Faust’s Minstrels. As a monologist
-and comedian he ranks with the best performers of his time, which began
-in 1902; at present he is in vaudeville.
-
-Billy Beard was born in Columbia, S. C., September 1, 1879.
-
-
-WILL PHILBRICK made his first and only appearance in minstrelsy as a
-member of Primrose and Dockstader’s Minstrels at the Victoria Theatre,
-New York City, in the Spring of 1902; he sat on the end, sang “The
-Fortune Telling Man”; did “some” dance and made every one clap their
-hands awfully loud.
-
-But I’m a trifle ahead of my story. His first appearance was selling
-peanuts in Barnum’s Circus in 1893; he came near being arrested for
-running a shell game. After that he became a real actor with “A Trip to
-Chinatown”; in this company he first appeared in black-face, doing a
-specialty with Eleanor Falk.
-
-Mr. Philbrick played in other Hoyt productions, and “starred” for five
-years in “The Beauty Doctor.”
-
-Likewise was he prominently identified with “Panhandle Pete”; Grace
-Cameron Opera Company, and “Foxy Grandpa.”
-
-In vaudeville he was of the team of Philbrick and Cardownie, also with
-Joe. Hart’s “Bathing Girls.”
-
-Will Philbrick was born in Boston, Mass., October 16, 1879.
-
-
-JOHNNY DOVE excels as a dancer, but whatever he does he does well; now
-for the rest.
-
-Mr. Dove’s first stage appearance was with the original Bootblack
-Quartette, in 1896; the following year with James Corrigan he did a
-black-face act, which qualified him to become a member of Hi Henry’s
-Minstrels, where he remained six years. Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels was
-the next big show, and though Mr. Dove was surrounded by a galaxy of
-stars, his own light was none the less resplendent. His next engagement
-was a white-face affair with the Imperial Burlesquers, where he met
-with unqualified success; his own act “The Dancing Burglar”; it has a
-story, and here it is----
-
- ACT I.
-
- “As a boy, Master Dove in response to queries as to his future ideas
- in life, gravely told his Father he would be a dancer or a burglar.
-
- Act II.
-
- In a dancing contest, one night young Dove “flew the coop” and hiked
- away to the town hall while the family were in dreamland; Johnny
- won the coveted prize, a silver set of 24 pieces; sneaked home, and
- placed his winnings on the table; thence to bed.
-
- ACT III.
-
- Next morning, Dove Sr., being the first to arise, sees the new
- addition to the family plate, hastily, concludes that John had
- decided on the profession of burglar.
-
- CURTAIN.
-
-Johnny Dove was born in New Brunswick, N. J., April 15, 1879, and is at
-present with Al. G. Field’s Minstrels.
-
-
-EDDIE CASSADY, a great Philadelphia favorite, is one of the most
-pleasing of present-day comedians. His first professional appearance
-was with Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels in 1893.
-
-In 1903 he became a permanent feature during the Summer season at
-Atlantic City, N. J., with Murphy and Gibson’s Minstrels; continuing
-with them until 1907.
-
-The Summer of 1908 again saw him at the famous sea-shore resort with
-Murphy’s Minstrels, with whom he has since appeared. The present season
-of 1910 Mr. Cassady is doing one of the principal ends with Dumont’s
-Minstrels in Philadelphia.
-
-He also played a white-face part with Gracie Emmett’s Company--and some
-day may play another.
-
-Eddie Cassady was born in Philadelphia, June 17, 1880.
-
-
-TOMMY HYDE is justly entitled to take the highest rank with the
-younger generation of dancers; convincing proof of this can be had
-from the fact that both Barney Fagan and James Gorman, the world’s
-leading minstrel producers, found his (Hyde’s) assistance an invaluable
-auxiliary to their own endeavors on various occasions.
-
-His first appearance professionally was at Rochester, N. Y., with P. J.
-Mundy, on a Tuesday.
-
-For two years he played vaudeville houses, after which he joined
-Gilmore and Leonard in “Hogan’s Alley.”
-
-His next engagement was with Al. G. Field’s Minstrels, and that
-gentleman thought so well of Mr. Hyde, that the engagement was extended
-until six seasons had been rounded out with that prominent organization.
-
-Mr. Hyde subsequently joined Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels, and remained
-six years with the most famous of all black-face comedians.
-
-Tommy Hyde was born in Fresno, Cal., February 10, 1881.
-
-
-VAUGHN COMFORT belongs to the younger generation of minstrels, and
-has all the qualifications that tend to make an artist; youth and a
-handsome appearance combined with recognized ability gained in the
-dramatic profession might be mentioned.
-
-His first appearance was with the Empire City Quartette in
-Philadelphia, at the Globe Theatre, in 1895; he continued with them all
-that season, serving also in the capacity of manager. Next came a brief
-tour with Carl and Johnson’s Minstrels.
-
-In 1897 he joined the Irene Myers Stock Company, remaining seven years
-all told. In between this engagement was one with the A. E. Davis Stock
-Company; here Mr. Comfort played leads.
-
-Season of 1908-09 he was with Dumont’s Minstrels in Philadelphia, where
-he had the distinction of taking more encores after a ballad than any
-singer of late years ever did in that house.
-
-Seasons of 1909-10 Mr. Comfort became a member of Cohan and Harris’
-Minstrels; his work as interlocutor with this organization brought
-forth lavish encomiums from the press in general, and the Metropolitan
-papers in particular.
-
-The present season of 1910-11 he is with Geo. Evans’ Minstrels.
-
-Prior to the last two engagements, he was with the Earl Burgess’ Stock
-Company, also with George Primrose’s Minstrels.
-
-Mr. Comfort’s voice is a pure tenor; it is worthy of note that seldom
-in minstrelsy has a tenor occupied the position of interlocutor.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- TOM--WATERS & KELLY--NOLAN
-
- LEW--COLLINS BROS.--FRANK
-
- BILLY--WOOD & SHEPPARD--FRANK
-
- MORT.--EMERSON & COOK--JAS.]
-
-As this is a purely minstrel volume, it is in perfect good taste to
-remark that he is a great “comfort” to his friends and family.
-
-Vaughn Comfort was born in Philadelphia, August 7, 1881.
-
-
-JOHN J. BLUE, an efficient dancer of the present generation
-successfully conducted a dancing school in Hoboken, N. J., about eight
-years; desiring wider scope for his talents, he engaged with the Cohan
-and Harris’ Minstrels at their inception in July, 1908; he remained the
-season, and re-engaged for 1909-10.
-
-John J. Blue was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., October 31, 1881.
-
-
-HARRY JOLSON (Joelson) is undoubtedly the premier operatic black-face
-comedian of the day; to hear Mr. Jolson warble selections from “Lucia”
-gives one that Oliver Twist feeling--you want more.
-
-The first thing theatrical he ever did was to become an usher at the
-Bijou Theatre in Washington, D. C.; in this way he got many good
-“tips.” Mr. Jolson next became a singer “in the gallery,” same theatre;
-after that it was easy.
-
-His first appearance in black-face was with the Mayflower Burlesquers,
-where he worked with his brother Al. About five years ago at Robinson’s
-Park, Ft. Wayne, Ind., he appeared for the first time in a single
-specialty, and since then has played vaudeville.
-
-July 31, 1909, Mr. Jolson opened with the Eddie Leonard Minstrels at
-Union Hill, N. J., doing an end and his specialty.
-
-May 4, 1910, he sailed for Europe.
-
-Harry Jolson was born in Srednick, Russia, January 12, 1881.
-
-
-JOE B. MCGEE didn’t go to school with Mark Twain, nor did he start
-the late lamented humorist on the road to fame; but Mr. McGee and Mr.
-Clemens were both born in the same house, and evidently Mr. McGee
-imbibed there some of the humor created by the immortal wit.
-
-His first professional appearance was with Robinson’s Minstrels at
-Hannibal, Mo., in 1898. Subsequently he was with Ward and Wade’s, and
-George Van’s Minstrels; also did he tour with his own minstrel company.
-
-Mr. McGee joined Al. G. Field’s Minstrels in 1909 for the season; the
-following year he was in vaudeville with Russell and Smith’s Minstrels.
-
-He is a comedian of original methods, and a dancer of more than
-ordinary merit.
-
-Joe B. McGee was born in Florida, Mo., February 20, 1881.
-
-
-GEORGE JONES, one of the original members of “That Quartette,” was a
-“boy singer” with Al. G. Field’s Minstrels in 1896.
-
-Subsequently he did meritorious work as a comedian with Wm. H. West’s
-(Ricaby’s) Minstrels.
-
-After the dissolution of “That Quartette” in 1909, Mr. Jones continued
-in vaudeville as one of the team of Jones and Deely.
-
-George Jones was horn in St. Louis, Mo., September 22, 1883.
-
-
-WILL OAKLAND (Harry Hinrichs) possesses that extremely rare quality
-of voice that is known as a contra-tenor, which he uses to the best
-advantage, his enunciation being well nigh perfect.
-
-[Illustration: AL. JOLSON.]
-
-Mr. Oakland made his professional debut with George Primrose’s
-Minstrels in Rochester, N. Y., February, 1905, and continued with that
-company until he joined Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels in 1907; he remained
-with Mr. Dockstader two seasons, after which he joined Cohan and
-Harris’ Minstrels.
-
-Early in 1910 Mr. Oakland joined Wm. H. Thompson in a high-class
-singing act, reviving a well-known trade-mark of two decades ago.
-
-Will Oakland was born in Jersey City, N. J., January 15, 1883.
-
-
-JULIAN ELTINGE (Dalton) is usually billed as “the artist without a
-peer;” and you may believe it, every word.
-
-The scion of an old Boston family, Mr. Eltinge adopted his present
-calling for the avowed purpose of “killing time;” that he made a
-“killing” there is no dispute.
-
-He was a member of the First Corps Cadets in his native city, and when
-this notable organization produced “My Lady” in 1899, Eltinge was cast
-for the soubrette role.
-
-In 1895 the play of “Miss Simplicity” was written around Mr. Eltinge’s
-talents; subsequently it became a vehicle for Frank Daniels; afterwards
-he appeared in “Baron Humbug” and other plays.
-
-His first Metropolitan appearance was at the Bijou Theatre in New York
-City in 1903, with “Mr. Wix of Wickham.” Later, and until July 27,
-1908, he played vaudeville engagements in the United States and Europe.
-
-On the latter date he made his first minstrel appearance with the Cohan
-and Harris Company, at Atlantic City, N. J.; his success with this
-organization was nothing short of phenomenal; he remained the entire
-season, appearing with darkened features in the after-piece.
-
-It may be of interest to know that during Mr. Eltinge’s Cadet Days; he
-played male juvenile roles equally as clever as when encompassed by
-skirts and those other things that it is said females wear.
-
-Recently, while fulfilling an engagement at the American Music Hall in
-New York City, Mr. Eltinge performed his specialty a la minstrel.
-
-Julian Eltinge was born in Boston, Mass., May 14, 1884.
-
-
-AL. JOLSON (Albert Joelson). Seldom in the annals of minstrelsy has a
-performer risen to such heights, and achieved such success in the brief
-period that this brilliant young performer has accomplished. Three
-years ago he attracted the attention of Lew Dockstader, who saw him
-perform in the South on several occasions.
-
-Subsequently the latter engaged him for his (Dockstader’s) company,
-and in the Summer of 1908, Mr. Jolson made his first appearance with
-the latter’s minstrel organization. His success was instantaneous and
-pronounced.
-
-He remained with Dockstader all that season, and part of the next;
-afterwards making his appearance in vaudeville, where if anything, he
-was even a greater hit. In the vernacular of the Rialto, Mr. Jolson was
-a “riot.”
-
-Like everything and everybody, he had to have a beginning, and Mr.
-Jolson’s first professional appearance was with Al. Reeves’ famous
-Beauty Show. Subsequently with his brother Harry, and Joe Palmer, as
-Jolson, Palmer and Jolson, played vaudeville. Up to this period Mr.
-Jolson was working in white-face.
-
-At Keeney’s Theatre, Brooklyn, N. Y., he first applied cork; and cork
-it has been ever since.
-
-Mr. Jolson is a comedian by nature born; his monologue, interspersed by
-clever whistling solos, fully merits the approbation it receives.
-
-Al. Jolson was born in Srednick, Russia, May 16, 1885.
-
-
-NEAL ABEL, who appeared with much success with Primrose’s Minstrels
-about four years ago, subsequently went into vaudeville with Dave
-Irwin. Mr. Abel is unquestionably a comedian of more than ordinary
-merit; and anyone in Kansas City, Mo., will tell you the same thing.
-
-
-CHARLES HILLIARD (Hurst). From chorus man to burlesque prima donna in
-two years is certainly going some; nevertheless, that is the proud
-distinction accorded to the subject of this sketch, who made his first
-professional appearance with Frank Lalor in “Prince Humbug” in 1908, in
-the minor capacity already referred to. The following year Mr. Hilliard
-was engaged with Cohan and Harris’ Minstrels, also as a chorus singer;
-before the season was over he was playing a prominent part in the
-after-piece.
-
-August 10, 1910, Mr. Hilliard played for the first time, the principal
-female role in the “Firemen’s Picnic” with George Evans’ Minstrels; his
-success was emphatic.
-
-Charles Hilliard was born in Sumter, S. C., June 23, 1885.
-
-
-EARL BENHAM (James Benham) made his first professional appearance in
-1903 in the chorus of “The Fisher Maiden,” and has been fond of fish
-ever since; this is of course _sub rosa_.
-
-It was in the year of 1907 that Mr. Benham acquired his first minstrel
-experience, and came face to face with a box of cork. The following
-year he was a ballad singer with Cohan and Harris’ Minstrels, and in
-1909 he began his second season with that company, playing an end,
-working in a big song and dance number and in the after-piece.
-
-Mr. Benham is an accomplished dancer and possesses a pleasing tenor
-voice.
-
-As a composer he has won conspicuous success, some of his best
-compositions being “I’m Happy When the Band Plays Dixie,” “My Little
-Rose of Killarney,” “Mandy,” “May Moon” and “I Can’t Think of Anything
-That’s Half As Sweet as You,” the latter by all odds having one of the
-sweetest refrains heard in years.
-
-At the conclusion of the season of 1909-10, Mr. Benham, in conjunction
-with John King, went in vaudeville, making their first appearance at
-the Warburton Theatre, Yonkers, N. Y., May 22, 1910.
-
-At the present time, Mr. Benham and Miss Effie Snowden are meeting with
-pronounced success in a clever singing and dancing act; vaudeville, of
-course.
-
-Earl Benham was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., April 15, 1886.
-
- * * * * *
-
-SAM. SANFORD built the first theatre ever constructed especially for a
-minstrel company, in Philadelphia.
-
-It opened August 1, 1853.
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-“BUN” GRANVILLE (Bernard Ralph Granville). The distinction of being one
-of the youngest of minstrel comedians belongs to Mr. Granville, who at
-the age of 16 years joined the forces of Al. G. Field as a song and
-dance performer; and step by step rose in his chosen profession until
-he had the honor of sitting on the principal end in the organization of
-the “famous Field funsters.”
-
-[Illustration:
-
- CHAS. H. DAY
-
- NED. GREENLAND
-
- D. B. HODGES
-
- JOHN P. (“CULLY”) SMITH
-
- WM. H. SMITH
-
- WM. FOOTE
-
- W. H. STRICKLAND
-
- HARRY CLAPHAM
-
- CHAS. R. BUGBEE
-
-PROMINENT EXECUTIVES OF MINSTRELSY.]
-
-Mr. Granville remained in the above company until 1909, when he joined
-Will Rogers to do vaudeville; he is still doing.
-
-“Bun” Granville was born in Chicago, Ill., July 4, 1886.
-
-
-THE FOLEY TWINS began lives as newsboys in the metropolis, and were
-endowed by nature with good singing voices and ditto dancing legs; so
-it was but natural that talents like those must have an outlet, which
-they quickly found at clubs and entertainments.
-
-Their first engagement was with the May Howard Company in 1899; it
-was during this season that George Primrose heard of them, and made
-arrangements for the boys to join Primrose and Dockstader’s Minstrels,
-which they did at Atlantic City, N. J., July 31, 1900; they remained
-with this company three seasons, and with Dockstader’s Minstrels two
-years; their greatest prominence, however, was achieved with Mr.
-Primrose in his vaudeville act, with which they remained two years.
-
-It is pleasing to relate that these boys cheerfully and freely give all
-credit for their success in life to Mr. Primrose, of whom they speak in
-the highest praise.
-
-A season in vaudeville with Manuel Romain followed their last minstrel
-engagement.
-
-Johnny Foley was born in New York City, September 12, 1886; and Willie
-Foley was born in New York City, September 12, 1886.
-
-
-THE END.
-
-
-
-
- Typical exponents of
- Minstrelsy
-
- [Illustration]
-
- The Gorman Bros.
-
- [Illustration]
-
- Jas. Gorman, Gen. Producer
-
- ----FOR----
-
- Cohan and Harris’ Attractions
-
- [Illustration]
-
- John Gorman, with Marie Dressler,
- ----IN----
- “Tillie’s Nightmare”
-
- [Illustration]
-
- Geo. Gorman, with Marie Dressler,
- ----IN----
- “Tillie’s Nightmare”
-
-
- +William J.
- McKenna+
-
- =COMPOSER
- and LYRICIST=
-
- =..Writer of..
- Many Minstrel
- Hits of the
- present
- generation=
-
- [Illustration]
-
- Productions
-
- GEO. SIDNEY’S
- BUSY IZZY’S BOODLE
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- JOY RIDER
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- JOYLAND
-
- [Illustration]
-
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-
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- (Won’t you throw a Kiss to Me?)=
-
- =“Lady Love”=
-
- =“Dancing on the
- Levee”=
-
- =“Emmalina Lee”=
-
- =MAY IRWIN’S
- “Matrimony”
- and
- “She Borrowed
- My Only
- Husband”=
-
- Writer of the
- American version
- “Has Anybody
- Here Seen Kelly”
-
-
- Wm. T.
- Jas. W.
-
- Bowman Brothers
-
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-
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- black and white;
- tall and slim.
-
- _In Vaudeville._
-
-
- ====THE====
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-
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-
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- than half a century ago; it still prints it in conjunction
- with a weekly record of all the
- important
-
- [Illustration]
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
- =For Prices and Terms Address as above.=
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- TAUGHT BY MAIL
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- JOHN P. HOGAN
- 108 West 43rd Street,
- New York City.
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-
-
-
- Transcriber’s Notes
-
- The (many) inconsistencies and oddities in the printed source text
- have been retained, including those in the spelling of proper
- names, the use of periods after (shortened or diminutive) names,
- other punctuation, etc., as well as in the use of section headings.
- Pejorative and offensive language has not been adjusted.
-
- Depending on the hard- and software used to read this text and on
- their settings, not all elements may display as intended.
-
- Page 19, In support of this at one time gave a statement of receipts
- ...: the subject of the sentence appears to be lacking.
-
- Page 23, ... born in Baltimore, Md., May 9, 1909; he died in
- Philadelphia, September 10, 1874 ...: the year of birth is obviously
- wrong; other sources mention (May 5,) 1809 as date of birth.
-
- Page 26, He soon after returned to his heath: as printed, possibly
- an error for ... to his hearth. ... also Lida Gardner ...: probably
- intended to read ... also of Lida Gardner ....
-
- Page 179, He was born in Bambury, England, ...: possibly an error for
- Banbury.
-
- Page 285, illustration: the available scans were not sufficiently
- clear to read all individual names. The three men in the centre are
- (from left to right) Gustave Frohman, William Welch and Charles
- Frohman.
-
- Page 307, Pettergill: possibly an error for Pettengill.
-
- Page 314, “At the request of either Dan or Jerry Bryant, ...: there
- is no closing quote mark.
-
- Page 319, ... twelve shows a day, seven shows a week: possibly an
- error for ... twelve shows a day, seven days a week.
-
- Page 324, Mrs. James Speye: possibly a misprint of Mrs. James Speyer.
-
- Page 340, Pontotlyn: possibly Pontlotyn or Pontlottyn.
-
- Page 359, “As a boy, Master Dove ...: there is no closing quote mark.
-
-
- Changes.
-
- Illustrations have been moved outside text paragraphs.
-
- Several obvious minor typographical errors corrected silently.
-
- Index and list of illustrations: several names standardised to
- reflect the spelling used in the text; some page numbers and
- punctuation corrected silently.
-
- Page 2: ... just as he is saying if his wife would show up ...
- changed to ... just as he is saying it his wife would show up ....
-
- Page 22: December 6, 1871 changed to December 6, 1791.
-
- Page 30: Julius A. von Vonhurst changed to Julius A. von Bonhorst.
-
- Page 52: ... co-proprietor with “Pony” More ... changed to ...
- co-proprietor with “Pony” Moore ....
-
- Page 76: ... the following well-known burnt cork organization ...
- changed to ... the following well-known burnt cork organizations ....
-
- Page 88: ... when he had eaten a square real ... changed to ... when
- he had eaten a square meal ....
-
- Page 98: ... achieved fame upon the sage ... changed to ... achieved
- fame upon the stage ....
-
- Page 99: ... as shrunk in his chair ... changed to ... as he shrunk
- in his chair ....
-
- Page 150: Hubert W. Egan is one of the few ... changed to Hubert W.
- Eagan is one of the few....
-
- Page 160: Pawtuckett changed to Pawtucket.
-
- Page 183: Excelsion Bone Player changed to Excelsior Bone Player.
-
- Page 196: JOE. CAWTHORN changed to JOE. CAWTHORNE. The common caption
- on page 196 for the double-page illustration of pages 196 and 197 has
- been moved to page 197.
-
- Page 227: Press Eldridge was born in Philadelphia ... changed to
- Press Eldredge was born in Philadelphia ....
-
- Page 234: ... his professional entre’ ... changed to ... his
- professional entrée ....
-
- Page 250: Plattville, Wis. changed to Platteville, Wis.
-
- Page 279: ... with Tony Hart in a “Toy Pistol” ... changed to ...
- with Tony Hart in “A Toy Pistol” ....
-
- Page 283: ... is not mostly devoted to ... changed to ... is now
- mostly devoted to ....
-
- Page 290: Newburg changed to Newburgh.
-
- Page 299: Düerkheim changed to Dürkheim.
-
- Page 304: Portorlington changed to Portarlington.
-
- Page 306: ... the realms of burn-cork amusements. changed to ... the
- realms of burnt-cork amusements.
-
- Advertisement for Madison’s Budget: farcial afterpieces changed (in
- text) to farcical afterpieces.
-
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