1897 Mabelle Gillman Photo by Sarony. Collection John T. & Martha Ford

DESC: Cabinet card by Sarony labelled (later) in pencil en verso “Mabelle Gilman (Mrs. Wm. Corey)” Mabelle Gilman Corey (1882-1960) enjoyed a period as one of the top muscial comedy stars on Broadway.

PERSONS: Mabelle Gilman

MANUFACTURER: Sarony Photographer New York

With Certificate of Provenance from Rare Nest Gallery Chicago; CAT #: PMK0040

COLLECTOR: Martha Ford Gresham (John T. Ford daughter)

1872, Baltimore – 1923, Baltimore

Growing up in her father’s theaters gave Martha Ford a rare vantage point and opportunity to rub elbows with the prominent theatrical figures of the 19th and early 20th century. Evidence of this proximity is present throughout her sub-collection. Martha’s autograph book, dedicated photographs and a poem composed by Edwin Booth about her as a toddler demonstrate convivial relationships with the stars. From her teen years, Martha’s father worked assiduously to develop and promote her career and from at least 1894 Martha developed a repertory with renowned Shakespearian actor Creston Clarke (nephew of the Booth brothers).

Martha received positive reviews as Ophelia in Hamlet and as Juliet. From 1890, Martha became known for her recitation of Francis Scott Key’s “Star Spangled Banner”. The national anthem enjoyed an almost fanatical revival during this period, and she was asked to recite at fairs and festivals across the country, including the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Also in the 1890’s, possibly at Daly’s Theatre in New York, Martha met Herbert Gresham, a London-born stage manager and actor. After her marriage to Herbert, Martha seems to have retired from the stage to raise her three children.

I will be selling several hundred pieces related to John T. Ford, Ford’s Theater and Ford’s descendants who were all figures in American theater from 1840 – 1970.