Chapter VI: Introduction (6)

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.

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.

“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.

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.

LON MORRIS

J. T. TROWBRIDGE

JOHNNY PELL

BILLY MORRIS]

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.

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.

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.

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.