Rare Opera Play Bill - Printed in Humboldt TN, ca 1890's

Maude Atkinson (The Distinguished Emotional Actress) was appearing in a play especially written for her by Miss May M. Ward entitled A Golden Moth. Most likely this play is the one mentioned in the New York Clipper Annual of 1891 which states the following: "A Golden Moth," by May M. Ward, originally acted, Union City, Tenn."  

OPERA HOUSE ToNight

The Fashionble (sic) Society Event

The Distinguished Emotional Actress

MAUDE ATKINSON.

Who will appear in her creation of Clair Hudson.  To-night will be presented the Society Comedy in 3 acts written especially for Miss Atkinson by the talented young Southern Authoress, 

Miss May M. Ward, entitled A Golden MOTH

Cast of Characters

Maurice Hudson (Claires son)....Gus Homer

Harold Montford (a victim of social ideas)...R.J. Johnson

Gerald Montford (who loves Edith)..Harry DeMuth

Col. Malcolm Dare (of Kentucky)...R.B. Jones

Dick Carroll (a sentimental swain)...Howard Thompson

Edith Dare (a born coquette)...Kate Chester

Flossy Montford (a wildwood's blossom)...Clara lake

Mrs. ?ville Ray (a willing catch)...Jennie Burleigh

Clara Hudson (a Washington Belle)...Maude Atkinson

A MODERN SOCIETY COMEDY

Not over-drawn, but depicting true scenes of Gilded Bauble Society Life in Washington.  AN AMERICAN PLAY by an AMERICAN AUTHORESS FOR AN AMERICAN ACTRESS SUBMITTED TO THE AMERICAN PUBLIC FOR THEIR APPROVAL.

FRED SCHUCHERT,                     MANAGER

Seats at Usual Place.

DON'T FAIL TO VISIT AND BE AMUSED!

messenger print, Humboldt Tenn.

Updated October 31 2013
The old opera house building has been rehabbed and is now a stylish event venue.  Be sure to check out the Opera House Event Hall in Humboldt Tennessee.  The new owners asked to use our flyer and we happily gave permission so you might see a bit of Moran Place history if you visit the venue!

Recollections of Jno. W. Moran, Dresden Enterprise April 26, 1912

Recollections of Jno. W. Moran Dresden Enterprise April 26, 1912

Soldier Citizen Friend

31st Tennessee Regiment
Co. I   C  S  A

Paper dolls circa 1895

These paper dolls probably belonged to the youngest Moran girl, Marion, who was born about 1884.  I found them all in one envelope inside one of the many boxes containing Moran items.  It's amazing how beautiful and intact they still are after 126 years!  

Some of the dolls are from a company called Barbour's who produced thread and other textile products.  Barbour's was founded in 1784, the date on the back of the Barbour's dolls is 1885.  Here is some reading from Barbour's entitled A Treatise on lace-making and embroidery with Barbour's Flax Thread.

The top row of paper dolls originate from the Coats and Clark thread called O.N.T (One New Thread).  O.N.T. thread became available in 1864.  Here is a short history of the Coats and Clark Company including the development in 1864 of its thread division.

Paper dolls have always been an inexpensive toy for children.  They originated in Paris, moved to England and eventually made there way to America.  For a concise history of American paper dolls visit 

Victoriana Magazine.