Minstrels on stage. On February 9, 1928, local poultry co-ops entertained its members with a minstrel show at American Lake. Entitled "Good Will Minstrels," most of the group wore the traditional blackened faces and colorful clothing. Entertainers were equipped with guitars, mandolins, while the non-costumed band supplied the brass. Identified on stage were President C.C. Davis and Secretary McDrum of the American Lake Poultry Local (on left) and Mrs. E.W. Rau, secretary, and President A.F. Visell of the Parkland Poultry Local (on far right). G64.1-049
On May 2, 1922, a group of entertainers identified as the Hick Minstrels posed on stage during dress rehearsal before Mrs. D.E. Fleming, musician, and G.H. Wallace, director, at the piano. The men's club of St. Mark's Episcopal Church was presenting its annual minstrel show on May 3rd and 4th at the church's community house. An Abe Lincoln look-alike is in the center of the photograph in front of the American flag. The introduction of live chickens, ducks and geese on stage during the show emphasized the bucolic setting and theme. Six "vaudeville" acts followed the minstrel show. Names of the men's club participants were listed in the News Tribune article dated 5-3-1922. (TDL 5-1-22, p. 7; TNT 5-3-22, p. 6) G64.1-037
Minstrel shows--Tacoma--1920-1930; Musical revues & comedies--Tacoma--1920-1930; Hick Minstrels (Tacoma); Fleming, D.E.--Family; Wallace, G.H.; St. Mark's Episcopal Church (Tacoma);
Hick Minstrels. St. Mark Episcopal's men's club was dressed and ready to rehearse its annual minstrel show in May of 1922. Fake whiskers, bright plaid shirts, kerchiefs and straw-chewing were all in evidence. The men were preparing for their May 3rd and 4th performances at the church's community house. An "Honest Abe" stand-in and the American flag lent a patriotic touch to the proceedings. Seated at the piano was Mrs. D.E. Fleming with G.H. Wallace, the program's director, at her side. G40.1-049 (TNT 5-3-22, p. 6-article & alternate photograph)
