BERT WILLIAMS, THE JACKIE ROBINSON OF THE AMERICAN THEATER

» Joy Butler - Bert Williams

I was not familiar with Bert Williams but enjoyed learning about his talent and courage in the face of racial segregation and prejudice. It's great that you are spotlighting these early entertainers.

-- posted by Joy Butler

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» Renie_Burghardt - Bert Williams

I enjoyed learning about this great entertainer and human being. Thank you. Excellent article, Joyce!

-- posted by Renie_Burghardt

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» JoyceEberly - Re: Bert Williams

In response to message posted by Renie_Burghardt:

Hi Renie,

Thanks so much for your kind comments. Bert Williams was a real jewel.

-- posted by JoyceEberly

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» JoyceEberly - Re: Bert Williams

In response to message posted by JButler:

Hi Joy,

I'd never heard of Bert Williams before, either. What a lot of heartaches he must have had.

-- posted by JoyceEberly

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» hb480 - Bert Williams

I enjoyed reading your article on Bert Williams and his contributions to the American and European theatre. I have long been a fan of Bert and Williams and Walker and agree that more individuals should be aware of his/their contributions. You referenced his Biograph film "Fish" I have only seen a 5 or 6 second spot from this film on a Vaudeville documentary and I have had little to no luck getting additional information about this film short. I own a print of "Natural Born Gambler" and would greatly appreciate any additional information you may have on the "Fish" short. Regards and Thanks! Howard Urick

-- posted by hb480

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» maynard4 - Bert Williams

I am from Antigua and old Antiguans in Harlem knew Bert Williams as an Antiguan.

"Bert Williams was born on November 12, 1875, in the village of Swetes, Antigua and Barbuda. He is registered in the book of births as Egbert Austin Williams born to Fred of Sea View Farm, and Mary Williams of Swetes." From Fan the Flames by the late Tim Hector an Antiguan Historian. Tim's Grandfather knew Bert personally. The family left Antigua when Bert was 12 years old. Our national Performing Arts Society is having a Black Tie Affair for him here on Saturday night May 31st, 2003. Sea View Farm and Sweetes are villages in Antigua that still exist. One of the worlds best Cricketers is also from Swetes.

I just thought that I would share this with the readers.

Jennifer

-- posted by maynard4

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