Chapter III: Introduction (3)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.