Autographed Photograph c. 1920 Constance Worth to Edith Ford Gresham RARE!!!

Photo Postcard   DATE: c.1915-1920

DESC: 4.5 x 3 inches. Sepia toned with irregular trimming. With inscription “Edith (Ford Gresham) "It's a perfectlybeautiful day, isn't it?" Constance” Probably British actress Constance Worth (dates align with styling of photo). The actress Constance Worth worked mostly in the British theater, but between 1919 and 1922 she also took part in some British silent movies. Not to be confused with Australian Constance Worth (later). Verso has printed post card graphics and remnants of glue.

With Certificate of provenance from Rare Nest Gallery Chicago; CAT #: PMK0034

BIO: Edith Ford Gresham (John T. Ford Granddaughter)

1897, Manhattan – 1976, Riverdale, NY

Edith Gresham’s incredibly diverse career ranged from prep school performances (as Romeo) to Broadway to radio and television (The Phil Silvers Show, others) to film. Her breakthrough role was playing Sadie Clarence in 39 East by Rachel Crothers (in 1919 on Broadway and reprised in a lost silent film in 1920).

Edith began as an ingénue eventually settling in as a go-to character actress. She was often called upon to replace short-lived original performers. Edith helped define the roles of Aunt Eller in Oklahoma (Broadway and travelling) and the outlandish Countess de Lage in Clare Booth Luce’s classic The Women. In all, Edith has at least twelve Broadway credits through 1966 (The Caucasian Chalk Circle).

Considering her grandfather and father’s theatrical management it is somewhat surprising that Edith was proud of her participation in the Actor’s Strike of 1919 which led the way for labor reforms and helped to cement Actors Equity as a bargaining and governance powerhouse in the entertainment industry.

During the period of World War II and after, Edith organized and supported charitable programs for refugees and promoted bond drives. Her sub-collection includes numerous receipts and moving letters of thanks to the Oklahoma company from war survivors and refugees.

A dedicated career actress, Edith remained single throughout her life.

We are selling over 1,000 pieces related to John T. Ford, Ford’s Theater and Ford’s descendants who were all figures in American theater from 1840 – 1970. Check out our Ebay Store Rare Nest - categories American Theater and John T. Ford Family.