From sawdust to stardust : a story of Fred Stone / [not after 1974]

Authors:Dorothy Stone Collins, George Ade, Rex Beach, Will Rogers, Fred Stone

Abstract:The ms. clearly details the life and show business career of Dorothy Stone Collins's father, Fred A. Stone (1873-1959), an internationally known entertainer, from his early years in several Kansas towns until 1938 when he celebrated in New York City his 50th year in the theater. He performed in circuses, variety shows, vaudeville, musical comedy, The Jayhawkers & other films, and dramas. Stone was also active in theatrical union organizations such as the White Rats of America, Actors' Equity Association, and National Vaudeville Artists. His career is documented chronologically, and details are included about productions in which he performed. His hobbies included sports and traveling with his brother-in-law, author Rex Beach, for big game hunting. His closest friends included his partner, Dave Montgomery, and Will Rogers. This ms. contains a wealth of information on the entertainment world of 1883-1938 and life at the turn of the 19th-20th century. Fred Stone's daughters Dorothy Stone Collins, Paula, & Carol and wife Allene Crater are mentioned as are James J. Corbett and the Kansas cities of Kansas City, Topeka, & Wellington. Includes poetry by George Ade, reminiscences by Stone & Beach, and newspaper articles by Rogers. The last 20 years of his life are not covered by this work

Archival Material, English, 1974