Part of the American History & Genealogy Project

Julia Marlowe 1865 ~ 1950

Julia Marlowe

Was born in the Village of Caldbeck, England, in 1865. She was christened Sarah Frances Frost. Though her family name was Brough, on entering the theatrical profession she took the name of Julia Marlowe. In 1872 her family came to the United States and settled in Kansas, finally removing to Cincinnati, where Miss Marlowe received her early education in the public schools.

Her first appearance on the stage was in 1874, when but nine years of age in "Pinafore." This was followed by children's parts in "Rip Van Winkle," and in 1879 she made a tour with a company headed by a Miss Dowe.

 Owing to the illness of a member of this company, she was called upon unexpectedly to take the part of a page in "Romeo and Juliet," which she did with such marked indications of talent that for the next four years she was placed under Miss Dowe for study.

In October, 1887, she made her debut in New York City as Parthenia in "Ingomar" winning a triumph at once. She afterwards appeared as Viola in 'Twelfth Night" and her success soon led her to enter the ranks as a star and she made a tour, appearing in "Ingomar," "Romeo and Juliet," "Twelfth Night," "As You Like It," "The Lady of Lyons," and the "Hunchback." taking the leading female roles in these plays. Ill health compelled her retirement for several years, but since her recovery she has continued her successes. Her art is of a high standard. She appears in her various roles true to life and without visible effort.

In 1894 she married Robert Taber, her leading man" and for a number of years they managed together their own company. Julia Marlowe's greatest work has been her "Juliet," being recognized as the best "Juliet" on the stage today.

Women of America

Source: The Part Taken by Women in American History, By Mrs. John A. Logan, Published by The Perry-Nalle Publishing Company, Wilmington, Delaware, 1912.