TERRE HAUTE —
The first season of the magnificent Terre Haute Opera House, which featured many of the world’s premier celebrities, was a resounding success.
Comedian John E. Owens presented the inaugural performance at the elaborate new show palace on Dec. 19, 1870, starring in his famous title role in “Solon Shingle” and staying four days to present six other skits: “Everybody’s Friend,” “The Happiest Day of My Life,” “Forty Winks,” “Married Life,” “Paul Pry” and “Live Indian.”
The dramatic and amusing story of Owens’ late arrival in Terre Haute by train from Cleveland has been told more than once in this space.
Owens’ stint was followed during the first season by satirist David Ross Locke as Petroleum V. Nasby; sensational Swedish operatic soprano Christine Nilsson during her first American tour; extraordinary Czech actress and singer Fanny Janauschek; noted cornetist Jules Levy; comedian Sol Smith Russell and the musical Berger Family; Fannie B. Price’s theatrical troupe; independent presidential candidate George Francis Train; musical prodigy Blind Tom; and many more.
Air conditioning was eight decades into the future. Enclosed theaters in Indiana shut down in June. Summer entertainment was confined to parks and open air venues.
To phase out the inaugural 1870-71 season, the Terre Haute Opera House booked a two-day stint by the America’s brightest musical comedy star J. K. Emmet (May 31 and June 1) and two days headlining Billy Manning’s Minstrels (June 12-13).
Emmet’s appearance was highly anticipated. He was one of the first variety performers to have a play written especially for him.
His family was very poor. Born in St. Louis on March 12, 1841, Joseph Klein Emmet was forced to be the family breadwinner at 10 years old when his father died.
He became a sign painter and, by age 20, his artistic skill earned him a job with a traveling theatrical show. He seemed to have a knack for music and subsequently earned a job as a “song and dance artist” with a minstrel troupe for $25 a week.
Throughout his career, critics were puzzled by Emmet’s great popularity. He was not an outstanding actor, singer or dancer and he had very little original material. Yet, wherever he went, he drew large crowds. If he had a special skill, it was yodeling.
In 1869, Charles Gayler wrote “Fritz, Our Cousin German” specifically for Emmet. The title character was an amiable slow-witted German immigrant in green blouse and cap who wore wooden shoes. The play was presented Nov. 22, 1869, in Buffalo, N.Y., and made its debut in New York City on July 11, 1870.
After attending the May 31 show in Terre Haute, Col. Robert Noble Hudson and Lewis M. Rose, co-publishers of the Terre Haute Evening Gazette, were among those who were uncertain about Emmet’s talent. Moreover, they were disgusted by the comedian’s intemperate behavior on stage.
The Gazette’s review of Emmet’s Terre Haute Opera House performance, published June 2, was highly critical. Concerned that the critique might have an impact on the crowd expected to attend a later show in the state capital, the Indianapolis Journal, owned by Lewis W. Hasselman and William F. Fishback, took issue:
“The appearance of an abusive article on the Emmet troupe in the Terre Haute GAZETTE of Friday can be accounted for by the fact that the proprietors of that sheet demanded twenty-one free passes to the entertainment of the previous evening — one for each of their subscribers — and because the modest request was not granted, their usual amount of dirt was thrown.”
Never known to be shy, Col. Hudson was not about to let the Journal get by with such a slur without comment. After reprinting the derogatory paragraph published in the Journal, the Gazette’s reply on Monday, June 5, read, in part, as follows:
“The above stupid article appeared in the Indianapolis Journal of this morning. The article referred to was not abusive, but true. It was not written for the silly reason assigned by the sleepy editor of the Journal but because Emmet’s conduct here was that of a common blackguard, and because the editor of this paper, unlike the editor of the Journal, will not be silent and allow this itinerant actor, who a little brief fame has crazed with egotism to insult the community for fear that he will not receive the allotted number of passes.
“The only thing we do regret is that Emmet did not spend the night in our Station House as his conduct merited.
“All those who saw the performances here knew it was a weak, patched up affair; and parties who have seen it in New York tell us that they would scarcely recognize the play, it was so mutilated, and put upon the stage in such an awkward way and with such indifferent support.”
The editorial exchange must have had an impact. Emmet did not return to Terre Haute for nearly 11 years.
While touring England in 1881, he was hospitalized in Liverpool to dry out after going on a alcohol spree. Then, on March 17, 1882, he appeared in Terre Haute at the opera house in a new play, “Fritz in Ireland,” written especially for him by William Carleton.
Terre Haute’s forgiving audiences chose to embrace him. Emmet reappeared at Naylor Opera House in other “Fritz plays” on May 1, 1885, March 25, 1886, and Nov. 23, 1886. In every sequel, it seemed, Fritz was surrounded by children. However, he returned to the bottle once again.
Emmet was successful enough to accumulate an immense fortune but his extravagance and the demons of intemperance did him in. He also had a fondness for St. Bernard dogs and paid huge sums for quality animals of that breed.
Emmet and his wife, Elizabeth Webber, whom he married in 1864, built an elaborate residence at Cornwall-on-the Hudson overlooking the Hudson River in 1881 and had another home in Albany, N.Y. She obtained a divorce from him on May 28, 1890. They had a son named Joseph K. Emmet Jr., who became an actor but did not come close to attaining his father’s fame.
J.K. Emmet died of pneumonia, at age 50, on June 15, 1891, at his Cornwall home.
History
HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE: J.K. Emmet’s first appearance at the Terre Haute Opera House
- History
-
-
Historical Treasure: The 1947 Terre Haute Phillies and the history of baseball in America’s Crossroads
As another spring blossoms, it is time for another season of baseball to descend upon the city of Terre Haute.
-
HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE: George Lance dominates intercity golf rivalry in 1927
What was expected to be a close match between two Terre Haute golfers for the 1927 Indiana Amateur Golf championship turned out to be a cakewalk.
-
GENEALOGY: Follow ‘Tips on Caring for Documents and Photographs’
I recently read an article called “Tips on Caring for Documents and Photographs,” by Tamara Hemmerlein, Hoosier Heritage Alliance Coordinator for the Indiana Historical Society
-
LOOKING BACK: 1988: Teachers issued rubber gloves to use in management of blood, other body fluids
Dorothy Jerse looks back at local history from 10, 25 and 50 years ago as reported in the Tribune and Tribune-Star.
-
Historical Perspective: Wabash Valley is home to prominent comedy opera stars
Comic opera, a genre consisting of light hearted musicals, was introduced in Europe during the 17th century.
In the 19th century, several female vocalists from the Wabash Valley, earned national celebrity by using that art form to excel. -
Looking back: In 2003, Storm rips off half of Honey Creek Fire Department’s roof
A Saturday morning storm ripped off half of the Honey Creek Fire Department’s roof and caused heavy damage in Allendale. Wind gusts topping 60 miles an hour brought down power lines and trees throughout the county. Hail almost an inch thick and 1.5 inches of rain fell in less than an hour.
-
Abundance of shoe stores existed downtown
Spring to me means putting away heavy winter sweaters and bringing out fun lighter sundresses. It also means the possibility of shopping for a new dress or even new shoes.
-
Genalogy: Handwriting in 1700s-1800s Copperplate or English Round Hand
The primary style of old handwriting in the mid 1700s through the 1800s is sometimes called Copperplate or English Round Hand. This style of writing is much more recognizable and readable than the older Secretary Hand style discussed last week, and it is much less ornate as well.
-
The death of Irish Kate Preston
The lifeless body of Catherine Preston, commonly referred to as “Irish Kate,” was found Saturday morning, Oct. 5, 1895, on a sandbar at the western edge of the Wabash River wagon bridge.
-
Looking back: 2003: Sherertz sets nine-hole school record
Terre Haute North Vigo High School’s nine-hole record at Hulman Links was broken by golf team member Matt Sherertz who shot a 4-under-par 32 in a team-record win over Northview.
-
Historical perspectives: Railroads were models of innovation and growth in Haute
Railroads have played an important part in the building of our nation and in the history of Terre Haute. It is no small wonder that these amazing machines were turned into children’s toys, as well as models for the more mature train enthusiast.
-
‘Foreign’ letters to confuse a genealogist
Any serious family researcher will at some time or another encounter old documents in an older handwriting style that need to be read and deciphered.
-
1988: 700 teachers unite in protest
At least 700 teachers were absent from their Vigo County School Corp. schools as part of a job action to protest lack of progress in contract negotiations.
-
Genealogy: Vigo County Gold Star Honor Roll
FamilySearch International recently announced “the release of significant new enhancements to its web services that allow visitors to collaboratively build their family tree online, preserve and share precious family photos and stories, and receive personal research assistance–all for free.”
-
‘Far-sound’ rings in a new era
This week’s Historic Treasure is an invention that changed life, as we know it in a great way, the telephone.
-
Historical perspective: Venard: soldier in the War of 1812
His name was Stephen Venard. For more than 50 years he resided in Terre Haute, without fanfare, with his wife and a daughter. Much of that time was spent in the 400 block on N. First St.
-
Looking Back: 2003: Mark Cook brings blues home
Mark Cook returned to Terre Haute to play with fellow musicians in the Cook-N-Blues group at Brazil and Terre Haute.
-
Historical perspective: Attempted carriage-jacking thwarted
Nineteenth century newspapers covered several topics that might astonish current readers. For example, the front page of the Terre Haute Weekly Gazette on Nov. 16, 1878 – 135 years ago – reported on the bold attempt by four “villains” to rob two women riding in a carriage immediately west of the fairgrounds at Brown and Wabash avenues:
-
Genealogy: Dutchman seeks family of missing soldier
Query: I live in the Netherlands and recently I have adopted the name of American PFC Joseph P. Nelson at the Netherlands American Cemetery in Margraten. He was killed in action on Dec. 5, 1944, and his name is on the Walls of the Missing.
-
Sewing Society keeps hospital in linen, supplies
When Tracy Pruitt came across a small box of old ledgers and receipt books recently, his first impulse was to throw it away. But he decided to sit down and examine its contents. In doing so, he discovered a story.
-
Looking Back: 1963: Officials prepare for disaster
City officials were studying survival plans in case of a natural disaster or attack by an enemy source. Gilbert Leonard was the director of Vigo County Defense.
-
Genealogy: Gold Star Honor Roll: Vigo County
This week continues with the Gold Star Honor Roll (those who died in WW I) from the Wabash Valley. The Vigo County list is long and will be run in three parts.
-
River boat models capture glory of former culture
In the River portion of the latest exhibit at the Vigo County Historical Society museum are two models of river paddle boats created by Alfred F. Nehf.
-
Historical perspective: Babe Holland: advocate for equality
Wherever Terre Haute native William Sylvester Holland roamed, he made an impact.
-
Historical Perspective: Terre Haute’s architectural heritage
Much more than is commonly recognized, Terre Haute has a rich and diverse legacy of landscapes designed by some of the nation’s most talented architects.
-
Genealogy: A search for names from broken stones
This week there is a query about an old cemetery in Parke County, that is believed to have been destroyed:
-
Hidden treasures: Laborers phased out by machines
Today’s historical treasure will intone to many people an early experience of practical labor. For others, this artifact might lack a contextual notion.
-
Looking back: 2003: Two men rob Terre Haute First National Bank
Two men robbed Terre Haute First National Bank’s banking center at Southland Plaza, South Seventh Street and Margaret Avenue. It was the first bank robbery in Terre Haute since November 2000.
-
Interurban makes city Crossroads of America
Electric transportation is not a new technology. With the arrival of the electric car we are reminded that electric technology has a long history in Terre Haute.
-
The tale of the Wabash River
On March 14, 1913, the Indiana General Assembly adopted “On the Banks of the Wabash, Far Away,” by Terre Haute native Paul Dresser, as Indiana’s state song.
- More History Headlines
-
Historical Treasure: The 1947 Terre Haute Phillies and the history of baseball in America’s Crossroads
Okla. Teens Get Video of Deadly Tornado Overhead
Raw: Aftermath of Deadly Attack in London
Britain Attack Believed Linked to Radical Islam
Man Shot While Questioned in Boston Probe
Texas Students Coach Teachers on Fitness
Raw: Scuffles in London After Hacking Death
Raw: Kevin Durant Tours Moore After $1M Pledge
Chain-Reaction School Bus Crash Injures About 50
Weiner Launches Bid to Become NYC Mayor
Johnson: Don't Blame Islam or UK Policy
School Storm Protection Spotty in Tornado Zones
Meet MJ, the Bike Riding Tabby Cat
Today in History May 23
9-year-old Tornado Victim Loved Family, Singing
Oklahoma Survivors, Heroes Survey Damage
New Forecasting Tool Eyed for Hurricane Season
Moore Native Toby Keith Tours Tornado Damage
Today in History May 22
Wash. State Man Arrested Following Ricin Scare
Raw: 80-Year-Old Climbs Mount Everest
AK-47-wielding thug may be the most bumbling crook ever
Trout's cycle a boost for Angels
Raw: New Video of Deadly Oklahoma Tornado
Kim Kardashian Flaunts Pregnant Bikini Body in Greece
NBA star pledges $1M to help tornado recovery
Shakira's Shocking Talent
Morgan Freeman falls asleep on air
GRAPHIC: Blood-Soaked Machete Killer Caught on Tape
Elin Nordegren Furious With Lindsey Vonn For Parading Kids in Public
Camera Captures Climber As He Loses Grip And Falls
Helen Mirren Meets with Dying Boy in Queen Elizabeth's Place
Crowd Chants '¡Si, Se Puede!' After Passage of Immigration Bill
DWTS Crowns a Winner
Police Ram House to End Hostage Standoff
Demi Moore a Rocks Bikini at Harry Morton's Family House
Anthony Weiner: I'm running for New York City mayor
Kate Middleton's Dress Flies Up
VIRAL: Baby makes epic soccer goal
The Hangover Baby All Grown Up
