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George W. and Frank Craig collection of vaudeville photographs, circa 1890s-circa 1945
Overview of the Collection
- Creator
- Craig, George W
- Title
- George W. and Frank Craig collection of vaudeville photographs
- Dates
- circa 1890s-circa 1945 (inclusive)18901929
- Quantity
- 78 photographs and 2 ephemera (1 box and 1 folder) ; sizes vary
- Collection Number
- PH1456
- Summary
- Photographs of vaudeville entertainers including the Hawthorne sisters, Davida and Mabel, Ilva Craig, the Jazzland naval Octette, Cora Youngblood Corson, Nina Payne, Ernest R. Ball, Lester Allen, the Ed Wynn Carnival and others.
- Repository
-
University of Washington Libraries, Special Collections
Special Collections
University of Washington Libraries
Box 352900
Seattle, WA
98195-2900
Telephone: 2065431929
Fax: 2065431931
speccoll@uw.edu - Access Restrictions
-
Entire collection can be viewed on the Libraries’ Digital Collections website. Permission of Visual Materials Curator required to view originals. Contact Special Collections for more information.
- Languages
- English
Biographical NoteReturn to Top
Frank and George W. Craig were employed at The Detroit Opera House. George was a lighting director, and Frank was a stagehand who died when stage weights fell on him. George married the vaudeville ingenue Ilva Winder, whose mother was vaudeville actress Mabel W. Hawthorne. Mabel Hawthorne was brutally assaulted in San Francisco in 1938.
Historical BackgroundReturn to Top
The first Detroit Opera House was built in the French Renaissance style in 1869, and the interior design was complete by Robert Hopkin, but it burned beyond repair on October 7, 1897, about an hour after the end of the performance A Lady of Quality . It is probable that Frank and George worked at the original Detroit Opera House which was torn down in 1966. It is believed the fire was caused by one of the calcium stage lights, which is the equivalent of today’s spot light. Happily, the building was insured, and a new building was built, on the same site. During the two years that the new theater was being built, performances were held at The Empire Theater. The Detroit Opera House re-opened in 1898. In 1931, The Detroit Opera House was converted into a discount store. This building was demolished in 1966.
In 1922, the building that is now known as The Detroit Opera House was built, but at that time it was called The Capitol Theater. It wasn’t until 1988 that the Michigan Opera Theater purchased the old Capital Theater building, and renamed it The Detroit Opera House. An extensive restoration and expansion project brought the new Detroit Opera House to the beautiful venue it is today.
Many of the productions performed at the original Detroit Opera House were vaudeville. It is thought that the term vaudeville was originally adopted from the French term voix de ville, and that the use of this term in America gave the performances a feeling of status. In reality, though, the American style of vaudeville, was a fairly polite variety show aimed at the middle class, including women and families. Ranging from legitimate theater to silly comedy, the vaudeville acts simply had to be fun, interesting, or entertaining as long as they were family friendly. Each vaudeville show had multiple acts, with the big names in the middle of the program. There were many vaudeville companies throughout America, and some were more concerned with propriety than others. Vaudeville was the fusion of old traditions and new styles. Class and racial boundaries were also mixed, and average men and women were the new audience. By the 1930s, radio shows and film were becoming more popular, signaling the decline of vaudeville as a main source of entertainment.
Content DescriptionReturn to Top
Frank and George W. Craig created this collection during the time they were employed at The Detroit Opera House. Includes photographs of vaudeville entertainers including the Hawthorne sisters, Davida and Mabel Hawthorne; Ilva Craig; the Jazzland Naval Octette, Cora Youngblood Corson, Nina Payne, Ernest R. Ball, Lester Allen, the Ed Wynn Carnival and others. A few of the photographs, some of which were addressed to the Craig's daughter Anita, appear to be of performers who may not have performed in vaudeville.
Use of the CollectionReturn to Top
Alternative Forms Available
View the digital version of the collection
Restrictions on Use
Status of creator's copyrights is unknown; restrictions may exist on copying, quotation, or publication. Users are responsible for researching copyright status before use.
Administrative InformationReturn to Top
Detailed Description of the CollectionReturn to Top
Portraits of Vaudeville PerformersReturn to Top
| Container(s) | Description | Dates | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Box/Folder | item | ||
| 1/1 | 1 |
Belle Adair
Apeda Studios, N.Y
(photographer)
In 1912, Belle Adair (born February, 1889) was performing in
the Fascinating Widow with the well known female
impersonator Julian Eltinge. Some of her later works include:
Son (1914), Duty
(1914) and Adventures in Diplomacy (1914).
Written on photo: To Frank Pauko! With good wishes always Yours
sincerely Belle Adair With Julian Eltinge Season 1912-1913. Written on verso :
Belle Adair Leading Lady to Julian Eltinge Season 191[illeg.].
|
1912-1913 |
| 1/1 | 2 |
Lester Allan
Lester Allan (November 17, 1891-November 6, 1949) worked in
vaudeville as well as in films.
Written on photo: To Anita Best Wishes always Lester Allan.
|
circa 1910s-1930s |
| 1/1 | 3 |
Minnie Allen
Minnie was known for her singing and impersonations.
Written on verso: Minnie Allen In AVaudeville Novelty.
|
circa 1917 |
| 1/1 | 4 |
Ernest Roland Ball
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
Ernest Ball (July 22, 1878-May 3, 1927) was well known as a
composer of Irish songs such as When Irish Eyes are
Smiling, as well as a formally trained pianist. He both sang and played
piano accompaniment in vaudeville acts. He was married to Maude Lambert.
Written on photo: For Frank Yours truly Ernest R. Ball.
|
circa 1907-1927 |
| Box | |||
| OS5 | 5 |
Maude Lambert Ball
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
Maude Lambert (September 26, 1882-December 20, 1942) was an
actress who often performed in musical theater with her both husband Ernest
Ballas and actor Eddie Foy.
Written on photo: To Frank - Yours Cordially Maud Lambert Ball.
Written on verso: Maude Lambert of Lambert and Ball.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| Box/Folder | |||
| 1/1 | 6 |
Sonia Baraban and Charles C. Grohs
Baraban and Grohs were dancers, and are known for introducing
the Reuben Fox-trot to the public,in 1914.
Written on photo: To Frank (a regular) from Chas Grohs Baraban
& Grohs June 1920.
|
June 1920 |
| 1/1 | 7 |
Lydia Barry
Hixon-Connelly, K.C., MO
(photographer)
Lydia Barry (circa 1876-April 04, 1932) was know for her singing
and comedy vaudeville acts. She performed both solo and in the team of Felix
and Barry.
Written on photo: Best Wishes of Lydia Barry.
|
circa 1900-1932 |
| 1/1 | 8 |
Edward A. Barto and Florence Clark
Morrison, Chicago, IL
(photographer)
In addition to the scene in Columbia and
Victor about a talking machine sales room, Barto and Clark were also
known for the act Sixty Live on the Second Floor
Back. Edward Barto (circa 1882-June 23, 1950).
Written on photo: Barto and Clark with sincere good wishes.
Written on verso: Barto and Clark Present Columbia and
Victor.
|
circa 1918 |
| 1/1 | 9 |
John Barton
Lucas Studio, N.Y
(photographer)
John Barton (October 12, 1898-November 30, 1978)
Written on photo: To Anita from your John Barton. Written on
verso: John Barton as Jester Lester in the famous stage play
Tobacco Road.
|
circa 1930s |
| 1/1 | 10 |
El Brendel
El Brendel (March 25, 1890-April 9, 1964) entered vaudeville in
1913 where he developed his signature good-natured Swedish character. He
performed both in vaudeville and in films. He was married to Flo Bert.
Written on photo: To Anita, Wishing you happiness & success,
El Brendel. Written on verso: El Brendel.
|
circa 1920s-1930s |
| 1/2 | 11 | Sammie Burns and Alice Fulton
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
Burns and Fulton were known for their dance routines on the
vaudeville circuit.
Written on photo: To Frank Pamko from Burns and Fulton with best
wishes Jan. 1st, 1914.
|
January 1, 1914 |
| Box | |||
| OS5 | 12 |
Bessie Clayton, Eduardo Cansino and Elisa
Cansino
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
Bessie Clayton (circa 1888-July 16, 1948) was known for dancing,
especially tap dancing en pointe. The Cansino siblings, also known for their
dancing skills, emigrated from Spain in 1913. They worked with Fred and Adele
Astaire. Eduardo Cansino (March 2, 1895-December 24, 1968) is the father of
Rita Hayworth. Elise Cansino (March 23, 1896-January 28, 1990).
Written on photo: Feb 15, 1920 To Frank who really should be the
electrocutioner at Sing Sing Yours Truly Bessie Clayton and To Frank un
suguierdo de[illeg.] Elisa Cansino . Written on verso: Bessie Clayton and
Cansinos.
|
February 15, 1920 |
| OS5 | 13 |
Claudia Coleman
Hixon-Connelly, K.C., MO
(photographer)
Written on photo: "Frank, You're all so nice!! - Claudia
Coleman"
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| Box/Folder | |||
| 1/2 | 14 |
William Edward (Billy) Cotton
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
Billy Cotton (May 1899-March 25, 1969) was a british dance band
leader, drummer and vocalist. Known for Billy Cotton
& His London Savannah Band and The Billy
Cotton Band Show, which performed on both radio and television.
Written on photo: Humorously yours Billy Cotton all
W[illeg.].
|
circa 1920s-1940s |
| 1/2 | 15 |
Ilva Craig
I. D. Jackson, Detroit, MI
(photographer)
Ilva Craig (born circa 1889), daughter of vaudeville actress
Mabel Hawthorne, was a Ziegfeld Follies showgirl and vaudeville ingenue. She
married George Craig, the lighting director at the Detroit Opera House.
Written on photo: Yours with love Ilva. This photo is the front
of a postcard.
|
circa 1910s-1930s |
| 1/2 | 16 |
Ilva Craig
Locke Clute, Detroit, MI
(photographer)
Ilva Craig (born circa 1889), daughter of vaudeville actess
Mabel Hawthorne, was a Ziegfeld Follies showgirl and vaudeville ingenue. She
married George Craig, the lighting director at the Detroit Opera House.
|
circa 1910s-1930s |
| 1/2 | 17 |
Blanche Dayne
Davies, Portland, OR
(photographer)
Blanche Dayne (December 25, 1871-June 27, 1944) was a top billed
vaudeville actress married to Will M. Cressy. Cressy wrote many of the playlets
Dayne performed in, such as Grasping An
Opportunity, The Key of C, and
The Wyoming Whoop.
Written on photo: Blanche Dayne.
|
circa 1900s-1920s |
| 1/2 | 18 |
James (Jim) Diamond and Sibyl Brennan
Known for their act Niftynonsense.
|
circa 1914 |
| 1/2 | 19 |
Glenda Farrell
Glenda Farrell (June 30, 1904-May 1, 1971) acted on stage and in
film from 1928-1969. She is best remembered for her character Torchy Blane.
Written on photo: To Anita-You must be a 'grand' little girl to
have such a grand 'father' Love Glenda Farrell.
|
circa 1920s-1940s |
| 1/2 | 20 |
Hazel and Vivian Follis
Daguerre, Chicago, IL
(photographer)
The Follis girls (not to be confused with the Follies Girls)
were singers and eccentric dancers.
Written on photo: Dec 9-1919 To Mr. Frank Craig Sincerely Follis
Girls. To a very pleasant stage manager. Written on verso: Hazel and Vivian
Follis.
|
December 9, 1919 |
| 1/2 | 21 |
Corine Frances and Tony Hunting
Baker Art Gallery
(photographer)
Corinne Francis and Tony Hunting performed in many vaudeville
acts such as Love Lozenges and
The Flower Shop. As part of their comedy act,
Corinne sang and played guitar, and Tony danced, often clogging. Along with
Irene Franklin and Burt Green they were part of the Broadway Bunch, who toured
in France during the weeks of the St. Mihiel offensive, and then took their
vaudeville act to other cities in Europe. Corinne was the first American woman
to sing The Star Sangled Banner in Germany after
the war.
Written on photo: Feb. 1st 1920 To Frank - Our Very Best Wishes.
Tony Hunting and Corinne Frances.
|
February 1, 1920 |
| 1/2 | 22 |
Nan Gray
Berts, K.C
(photographer)
Written on photo: To the stage boys [illeg.] Wishing them an
[illeg.] has coming to them [illeg.] Nan Gray. Written on verso: Nan Gray The
Scottish Lassie.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/3 | 23 |
Evelyn Grieg
Alfred Oyer Hohen, N.Y
(photographer)
Evelyn (born circa 1890) was a contralto singer who was known
for the part of Rhoda Byke in the Broadway production of Oh, Boy!.
Written on photo: Cordially yours Evelyn Grieg with Charles King
Co.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/3 | 24 |
Emma Hagl
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/3 | 25 |
Side view of Emma Hagl
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/3 | 26 |
William Hallen and Ethel Hunter
Celebrity, Chicago, IL
(photographer)
Ethel was an actress and violinist and William (circa 1886 -
April 7, 1951) was a composer and comedian. This same photo is on the front of
the sheet music Kaiser Bill.
Written on photo: To our enemy Frank I'll name one of the pigs
after you. From Wm Hallen & Ethel Hunter March 17/20. Written on verso: WM
Hallen & Ethel Hunter Just for Fun
|
March 17, 1920 |
| 1/3 | 27 |
Loney Haskell
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
Loney Haskell (1870-October 20, 1933) was a comedian,
performer, writer, lyricist, and a master of ceremonies. He was also known for
his many facial expressions. He delivered the eulogy at Houdini's funeral.
Written on photo: Remember me? 4th Liberty Loan Detroit=Big City
[illeg.] Loney Haskell.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/3 | 28 |
Probably Davida Hawthorne holding a bouquet of
flowers.
Locke Clute, Detroit, MI
(photographer)
Davida Hawthorne performed in vaudeville with her sister Mabel
Hawthorne. Conflicting reports indicate she was born in May in either 1882 or
1885.
|
circa 1900s-1920s |
| 1/3 | 29 |
Probably Davida Hawthorne sitting with her hands around
her knee.
Wright & Co., Detroit, MI
(photographer)
Davida Hawthorne performed in vaudeville with her sister Mabel
Hawthorne. Conflicting reports indicate she was born in May in either 1882 or
1885.
|
circa 1900s-1920s |
| 1/3 | 30 |
Davida (on left) and Mabel Hawthorne
Perle, Detroit, MI
(photographer)
The Hawthorne sisters were known as The
Dainty Comedians. Davida performed the serious parts, and Mabel
performed as the soubrette (ingenue).
|
circa 1900s-1920s |
| 1/3 | 31 |
Davida (in the hat) and Mabel Hawthorne
Perle, Detroit, MI
(photographer)
The Hawthorne sisters worked in stock theater for a variety of
different companies. In this photograph, they are both wearing ballet slippers
indicating they may have been dancers.
|
circa 1900s-1920s |
| 1/3 | 32 |
Davida (near the stuffed bear) and Mabel Hawthorne
sitting on a carpet looking at a paper
Perle, Detroit, MI
(photographer)
The Hawthorne sisters worked in stock theater for a variety of
different companies.
|
circa 1900s-1920s |
| 1/4 | 33 |
Davida (on right) and Mabel Hawthorne
Rudolph's Studio, Chicago, IL
(photographer)
The Hawthorne sisters worked in stock theater for a variety of
different companies.
|
circa 1900s-1920s |
| 1/4 | 34 |
Davida (on left) and Mabel Hawthorne
Rudolph's Studio, Chicago, IL
(photographer)
|
circa 1900s-1920s |
| 1/4 | 35 |
Mabel Hawthorne
Mabel Hawthorne (1880-1952) was an actress who often performed
with her sister Davida. She also acted alone, such as in the part of Fanny
Legrand in the controversial play Sapho and the
character Evy in Wife and Maid performed by the
Empire Stock Company. She also worked for the Franklin Stock Co. and the Nat
Stock Co.
|
circa 1900s-1920s |
| 1/4 | 36 |
Mabel Hawthorne
The Academy, Cumberland, M.D
(photographer)
Mabel Hawthorne (1880-1952) was an actress who often performed
with her sister Davida. She was brutally beaten in her home on January 4th 1938
by David Matthews. Though she survived the incident, she did suffer brain
damage from the attack.
Written on photo: Mabel Hawthorne. Written on verso: I love
mamma. My Girlie Girl from Mamma.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/4 | 37 |
Clara Howard
Davies, Portland, OR
(photographer)
Clara Howard was a singer and storyteller. She also
impersonated Charley Chaplin.
Written on photo: To Frank "Mr. Craig" A wonderful week, always
pleasantly remembered [illeg.] by a "regular bunch Sincerely Clara Howard March
6, 1920.
|
March 6, 1920 |
| Box | |||
| OS5 | 38 |
Frank Hurst
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
Frank Hurst was a singer who worked with Lucille Cavanagh. He
also performed with Eddie Vogt in Profiteering in
Fun, and recorded a Vitaphone reel with him. He worked with El Brendel
in May West's The Mimic World of 1921. There is
also a Frank Hurst that was the manager of the Waterloo Theater. It is unknown
whether they were the same person.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| Box/Folder | |||
| 1/4 | 39 |
Jack Inglis
Lumiere, N.Y
(photographer)
Jack Inglis started out as a straight man in vaudeville, but
became a comedian. He worked with James Duffy in comedy and patter. He was also
known for his hat acts, including one in which he tore up straw hats. He played
the Property Man in Buzzin’ Around, and he
recorded Dollar Down on Vitaphone.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/4 | 40 |
Jazzland Naval Octette
White Studio, Boston, MA
(photographer)
Jazzland Naval Octette was directed by Tom Deveney. It featured
Eddie Howett, and consisted of eight men who served overseas with the Atlantic
Squadron.
Written on photo: Best wishs from the Jazzland Naval 8. Written
on verso: Jazzland Naval Octette.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/4 | 41 |
The Musical Johnstons (Jim Johnston and Albert
Johnston)
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
The Musical Johnstons were xylophone players.
This composite was originally two separate pictures that were
cut and glued onto one single mat. On the left, Written on photo: To Frank from
Jim Johnston 1920 To one of the good one To Frank from Albert. Musical
Johnstons.
|
1920 |
| 1/5 | 42 |
Guy Kibbee
Bert Longworth. Hollywood, CA
(photographer)
Guy Kibbee (March 6, 1882 [some sources say 1886] - May 24,
1956) was an American stage actor playing mostly small parts. He was eventually
cast by Arthur Hopkins in Torch Song, and became a
star. He spent the majority of the rest of his career as a film actor. He was
known for playing goofballs and patriarchs.
Written on photo: To My Good Pal George Craig from J Guy
Kibbee.
|
circa 1930s-1940s |
| Box | |||
| OS5 | 43 |
Harry King
Hixon-Connelly, K.C., MO
(photographer)
Harry King (1881-April 6, 1965), together with Fritz Baumgartel,
were known as the Gartelle Brothers. They had a comic roller skating act called
either Skatorialism or Skatorial Rollerism. Harry later became a picture and
sound operator in a theater.
Written on photo: April 20, 20 To Frank With Best Wishes Harry
King.
|
April 20, 1920 |
| Box/Folder | |||
| 1/5 | 44 |
Hildegarde Knef
Maurice Seymour, Chicago, IL
(photographer)
Hildegard Knef (December 28, 1925-February 1, 2002) was a
German film and stage actress, singer, and song writer.
Written on photo: To Fred - with my good wishes Hildegarde.
|
circa 1940s-1950s |
| 1/5 | 45 |
Grace La Rue
Strausse-Peyton Studio, K.C., MO
(photographer)
Grace La Rue (April 23, 1882-March 13, 1956) was an American
actress and singer. She got her start on doing tent shows and burlesque and
worked her way into vaudeville working with the group she called her
Inky Dinks. She soon got a role in
The Blue Moon and then moved on to the Zeigfeld
Follies. She performed on Broadway and in Europe, which led to a 1929 Vitaphone
short, a part in a show with Mae West and work in the film
That's Good. She retired in the early 1930s.
Written on photo: To the Boys Sincerely Grace La Rue.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/5 | 46 |
Nate Leipzig
Pack, N.Y
(photographer)
Nate Leipzig (May 31, 1873-1939) was born in Sweden, but came to
America when he was about ten years old. He was a sleight of hand magician. He
was said to have invented the coin roll; rolling the coin across the back of
the fingers as well as the palm side of the fingers. He was also known for
manipulations with thimbles, knives, canes, and other everyday objects. He
performed many card tricks, such as Rising Cards. He became as popular in
Europe as in America, and often performed for royalty.
Written on photo: With Best wishes to Frank Craig Magically
Yours Nate Leipzig.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/5 | 47 |
Virginia Lewis and Mary White
Mehrn
(photographer)
Virginia Lewis and Mary White were high-class harmony
singers.
Written on photo: With best wishes to Frank Craige - a good
natured stage mana[ger] Lewis & White.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/5 | 48 |
Alice Lloyd
Pack, N.Y
(photographer)
Alice Lloyd (1873-1949) was one born into a family of performers
in Britain. She formed an act with her sister Grace for a time, but when Grace
retired, Alice became a solo singer. Her act included multiple costume changes.
She became very popular in the America. She was more genteel than her sister
Marie, which eventually led to her being billed as The
Ideal Dainty Chanteuse.
Written on photo: Best of wishes to Frank Craig Alice Lloyd
1919
|
1919 |
| 1/5 | 49 |
Nonette Lyle in gypsy costume playing violin
Sykes, Chicago, IL
(photographer)
Nonette was an American born performer known for being an
accomplished violinist and singer. At one time, she was the youngest solo
violinist to appear with the New York Festival orchestra.
Written on photo: To Frank with every good wish and thanks for
his many courtesies Nonette.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/5 | 50 |
Betty Morgan
Lumiere, N.Y
(photographer)
Bettie and Jim Morgan were singers, and composers of such
well-known songs as Don't Bite the Hand That's Feeding
You and Cleopatra Had a Jazz Band. They
performed Songs and Music Somewhat Different with
their Collegiate Orchestra. They recorded Songs As You
Like Them with Vitaphone. Betty recorded two songs on the jazz record
Bring On the Girls (1926-1930).
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/5 | 51 |
Jim Morgan
Lumiere, N.Y
(photographer)
Jim and Bettie Morgan were singers and composers of such
well-known songs as Don't Bite the Hand That's Feeding
You and Cleopatra Had a Jazz Band. They
performed Songs and Music Somewhat Different with
their Collegiate Orchestra. They recorded Songs As You
Like Them with Vitaphone.
Written on verso: Jim of Jim & Betty Morgan.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/6 | 52 |
Possibly the Murray Sisters
White, N.Y
(photographer)
The Murray sisters, Marion and Victoria, were operatic singers
and comedians who played the Orpheum circuit. In 1909 one of their popular
songs was I'm Tired of Being a Gibson Girl. In
1910, Marion appeared in the comedy The Prima Donna's
Honeymoon. Marion Murray became engaged to Joseph Ghiradelli in February
of 1909.
Written on verso: [M]urray Sisters. Nov. 24th. There were
multiple acts called the Murray sisters. However, based on their outfits, it is
probable that these women were the operatic singers and comedians, Marion and
Victoria.
|
circa 1900s-1920s |
| 1/6 | 53 |
Mlle Nadje
Mlle. Nadje (Cecilie Bownden) (1885-1966), was born to John and
Rose Bowden, of the Delevanti Troupe (wire-walkers, acrobats and equestrians)
in England. She began performing in the United States when she was fifteen. She
is known for her abilities in acrobatics, physical culture, and hand balancing.
She performed in many countries, including a performance for the queen of
England.
Written on photo: Mdlle. Nadje.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/6 | 54 |
Clarence Oliver
Hartsook Photo S.F. - L.A. (San Francisco - Los Angeles), CA
(photographer)
Clarence Oliver was from Kansas City, MO, and performed with
Georgia Olp. They originally performed together in William A. Brady’s
vaudeville troupe, but eventually left the troupe and created their own
playlets, such as Wire Collect,
The Bee Hive,
The Wall
Between and Discontent.
Written on photo: To the Boys Yours Very Truly - Clarence
Oliver.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/6 | 55 |
Georgie Olp
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
Georgie Olp performed with Clarence Oliver. They originally
performed together in William A. Brady’s vaudeville troupe, but eventually left
the troupe and created their own playlets, such as Wire
Collect,
The Bee Hive,
The Wall Between and Discontent.
Written on photo: Sincerely Georgie Olp Written on verso:
Georgie Olp - Oliver & Olp.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/6 | 56 |
Marguerita Padula
White Studio, Boston, MA
(photographer)
Marguerita Padula (January 1, 1891-February 22, 1957) performed
both on stage and in motion pictures. Her forte was character acting and
singing. Her performance of the song Halleluiah Hit the
Deck (the 1930 version) was particularly well accepted.
Written on photo: Very best regards Marguerita Padula. Written
on verso: Marguerita Padula in *Song Study of
Boys*.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/6 | 57 |
Nina Payne
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
Nina Payne was born November 15, 1890. She lived in Seattle,
Washington as a child. She became well known for her dancing act called
Character Studies in Dance. She was also well
known for her large hats and odd costumes. She toured the United States and
Europe, living for a time in Paris, France. She was also known for her work
with the Arnold Jazz Band and Folies Bergere. She retired from the stage in the
1930s.
Written on photo: To my Detroit Friends with Best Wishes, Nina
Payne. Written on verso: Miss Nina Payne.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/6 | 58 |
Benton Ressler
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
Benton Ressler composed the one act musical play
Oh!! Mary!! in 1920. He was a support actor to
Mrs. Gene Hughes in multiple plays including When He Came
Back. Sometimes he is billed under the name Benton Ressler & Co.
Written on photo: To Frank Craig with all good wishes Benton
Ressler Mom's Son. Written on verso: Benton
Ressler with Mrs Gene H[ughes]
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/7 | 59 |
Chester Spencer
Hartsook Photo S.F.- L.A. (San Francisco - Los Angeles), CA
(photographer)
Chester Spencer was married to and worked with Lola Williams.
One of their popular hits was Putting it Over, a
comedy singing and dancing act.
Written on verso: Chester Spencer Spencer & Williams
Direction Max Hart Palace Theatre Bldg. New York. The photograph is on the back
of a business card.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| Box | |||
| OS5 | 60 |
Jerry Swinford and the U. S. Glee Club
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
Prior to WWI, Jerry Swinford was a well-known, successful,
baritone singer who was well known across the United States. During WWI, he
conducted and performed in the Glee Club, which he organized during his time in
the Navy.
Written on photo: To Frank and the other "Boys" with every
evidence of regard Jerry Swinford. Written on verso: U.S. Glee Club.
|
circa 1914-1919 |
| Box/Folder | |||
| 1/7 | 61 |
Julia Marlowe Taber
Thors, San Francisco, CA
(photographer)
Julia Marlowe Taber (August 17, circa 1865-November 12, 1950)
was born Britain, and immigrated to America with her parents in 1870. She
started her stage career in 1879 as Fanny Brough. In the early 1900s she had
two major triumphs, one in the playBarbara
Frietchie and the other as Mary Tudor in When
Knighthood was in Flower. She later continued her impersonations of
various characters in William Shakespeare plays. She retired in 1924.
Written on photo: Julia Marlowe Taber
|
circa 1900s-1920s |
| 1/7 | 62 |
Transfield Sisters
Celebrity, Chicago, IL
(photographer)
The Transfield sisters were singers and musicians who played
multiple instruments including the xylophone, mandolin, guitars, and French
horn. They also played music on bottles.
Written on photo: Best Wishes Sincerely Yours The Transfield Sis
Oct 30th 1919. Written on verso: Transfield sister
|
October 30, 1919 |
| 1/7 | 63 |
Marguerite Werner
Bachrach
(photographer)
Marguerite Werner was known for playing the Mighty Wurlitzer
Publix 1 Pipe Organ.
Written on photo: To Frank - a reminder of the good old
"Madison" days,school, xmas trees 'n' ev'ry-body happy. Sincerely Marguerite
Werner 10-15-26.
|
October 15, 1926 |
| 1/7 | 64 |
Lola Williams
Hartsook Photo S.F. - L.A. (San Francisco - Los Angeles), CA
(photographer)
Lola Williams was married to and worked with Chester Spencer.
One of their popular hits was Putting it Over, a
comedy singing and dancing act.
Written on verso: Lola Williams Spencer & Williams
Direction Max Hart Palace Theatre Bldg. New York. The photograph is on the back
of a business card.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/7 | 65 |
Frankie Wilson
Apeda, N.Y
(photographer)
Frankie Wilson was known for her act Modern Mirage, which was an illuminated posing act that
included patriotic effects, portions of which were patterned after the poster
The Spirit of 1917.
Written on photo: To Frank, a big "Peach" & the boys, Your
Pal, Franki Wilson "The Star"???? Written on verso: Modern Mirage Frankie Wilson.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/7 | 66 |
Cora Youngblood Corson
Otto Sarony Co., N.Y
(photographer)
Cora Youngblood Corson (January 1886-circa 1917) was a featured
soloist who started as a coronet player, but eventually increased her
repertoire to include the French horn, saxophone, harp, trombone, cello,
bagpipes and accordion. She formed the band Cora
Youngblood Corson Sextette with friends from Oklahoma. They toured in
the United States and Europe. She was a soloist at several presidential
inaugurations. She was married to Charles Corson from 1904-1921, at which time
they divorced. She later married Frank Barsanti.
Written on photo: With Best Wishes Cora Youngblood Corson
4-11-20. Written on verso: Cora Youngblood Corson June 1st to Oct. 6th 1920
Anadarko, Okla.
|
1920 |
Unidentified Vaudeville Performers |
|||
| Box/Folder | item | ||
| 1/8 | 67 |
Actor named Roy
Written on photo: To "Walter" A real fellow & Pal, wishing
you loads of luck Roy.
|
circa 1910s-1930s |
| 1/8 | 68 |
Two women, probably dancers and possibly associated
with the Blue Devils of Music.
Written on photo: Sincerely [illeg.] Baugan[illeg.] Blue
Devils [illeg.] of Music 191[illeg.].
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/8 | 69 |
Photo collage with six female heads surrounding one
male head
The photos in this collage were cut out and pasted on
cardboard.
|
circa 1910s-1920s |
| 1/8 | 70 | circa 1900s-1930s | |
| 1/8 | 71 |
Portrait of a dark haired woman in a dress
Murray Korman, N.Y
(photographer)
|
circa 1930s-1940s |
Vaudeville PerformancesReturn to Top
| Container(s) | Description | Dates | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Box | item | ||
| OS5 | 72 |
A vaudeville stage scene with a large cast of men and
women all of whom are holding a playing card.
White Studio
(photographer)
|
circa 1880s-1900s |
| Box/Folder | |||
| 1/8 | 73 |
Twelve vaudeville performers dressed as Native American
Indians. Many hold tomahawks, and one appears to be the chief.
Siegel Cooper & Co., Chicago, IL
(photographer)
|
circa 1900s-1920s |
Ed Wynn's Carnival |
|||
| Box | item | ||
| OS5 | 74 |
The Japanese scene in The Ed
Wynn Carnival .
White Studio, N.Y
(photographer)
The Ed Wynn Carnival was a
musical revue that opened on Broadway on April 5, 1920 and ran through August
14, 1920.
Written on verso: Japanese Scene in The Ed Wynn
Carnival .
|
1920 |
| OS5 | 75 |
The Mardi-Gras scene in Ed
Wynn's Carnival .
White Studio, N.Y
(photographer)
The Ed Wynn Carnival was a
musical revue that opened on Broadway on April 5, 1920 and ran through August
14, 1920.
Written on verso: The Mardi-Gras Scene in The Ed Wynn
Carnival Grand Oct 31.
|
1920 |
| OS5 | 76 |
Some of the Maidens Fair in Ed
Wynn's Carnival .
White Studio, N.Y
(photographer)
The Ed Wynn Carnival was a
musical revue that opened on Broadway on April 5, 1920 and ran through August
14, 1920.
Written on verso: Some of the Maidens Fair in
The Ed Wynn Carnival Grand Oct 31.
|
1920 |
| OS5 | 77 |
A line of women in costume who were probably part of
the cast of The Ed Wynn Carnival
White Studio, N.Y
(photographer)
The Ed Wynn Carnival was a
musical revue that opened on Broadway on April 5, 1920 and ran through August
14, 1920.
|
1920 |
| OS5 | 78 |
A large group of men and women in fancy dress on a
stage set which is probably part of The Ed Wynn
Carnival
White Studio, N.Y
(photographer)
Ed Wynn's Carnival was a musical
revue that opened on Broadway on April 5, 1920 and ran through August 14, 1920.
|
1920 |
EphemeraReturn to Top
| Container(s) | Description | Dates | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Box/Folder | item | ||
| 1/9 | 79a-b |
Program for Sapho at the
Bijou theater
Mabel Hawthorne played Fanny LeGrande - Sapho
|
April 1910 |
| 1/9 | 80 |
Reproduction of photograph of Mabel Hawthorne for
Seattle theater with a poem.
Written on verso: My dear With love from her old [illeg.]m Mabel
(Bob). Mabel Hawthorne's poem Twilight is typed on
the inside of this program folder.
|
circa 1907 |
Names and SubjectsReturn to Top
Subject Terms
- Actors--Michigan--Detroit--Photographs
- Vaudeville--Michigan--Detroit--Photographs
- Visual Materials Collections (University of Washington)
Personal Names
- Craig, Frank--Archives
- Craig, George W.--Archives
Corporate Names
- Detroit Opera House--Employees--Photographs
- Detroit Opera House--Photographs
Form or Genre Terms
- Photographs
Other Creators
-
Personal Names
- Craig, Frank (creator)
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