Home > Mary Evans Prints Online > MonoMania Images
Bessie Wentworth music hall male impersonator 1873-1901
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Bessie Wentworth music hall male impersonator 1873-1901
Bessie Wentworth (Elizabeth Mary Andrews) male impersonator and ?coon singer? of plantation songs - a genre which would be unacceptable today. Here wearing a naval uniform and holding a cigarette. She died aged 27 and a series of cards were published entitled ?The late Miss Bessie Wentworth? of which this is one. Date: circa 1890s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 15500237
© MonoMania Images / Mary Evans Picture Library
Andrews Bessie Cigarette Coon Genre Here Impersonator Plantation Singer Songs Today Wentworth Elizabeth Unacceptable
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph depicts Bessie Wentworth, an extraordinary figure in the world of music hall entertainment during the late 19th century. Born as Elizabeth Mary Andrews, she rose to fame under the stage name Bessie Wentworth, captivating audiences with her male impersonations and performances of plantation songs, a genre that would be considered unacceptable today. In this image, Bessie is seen wearing a naval uniform, adding an extra layer of intrigue to her already enigmatic persona. The cigarette she holds in her hand only adds to her nonchalant and daring demeanor. At the height of her career, Bessie's performances were a sensation, drawing large crowds to music halls across the country. Sadly, Bessie's life was cut short, as she passed away at the young age of 27. In her memory, a series of mourning cards were published, one of which is this photograph. The cards, entitled "The late Miss Bessie Wentworth," served as a tribute to her remarkable talent and enduring legacy. Bessie's career as a male impersonator and coon singer was a reflection of the complex social and cultural landscape of the time. While her performances may be considered controversial by today's standards, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and the evolution of popular entertainment. This photograph stands as a testament to Bessie's captivating stage presence and her undeniable impact on music hall history.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
