After completing her engagement at the Columbia Theater in Columbia, Missouri, on September 22, 1925, Donna Darling and her troupe traveled roughly 310 miles to Omaha, Nebraska. They had September 23 for traveling before opening at the Moon Theater on September 24.
In reviewing newspaper coverage of this appearance, I found a curious advertisement in the Omaha Evening Bee of September 24, 1925 (p. 4). The paper announced:
“Bobbed Hair Bandits” Make Raid at the Moon”
Dona Darling and Girls style themselves as “The Bobbed Hair Bandits of Vaudeville,” for advertising purposes. They are at the Moon theater for three days, Saturday inclusive, as feature attraction of the week-end vaudeville program. Other acts are Willis and Willis, Walsh and Crook in “Oh, How Pretty,” and Joe Deming, “The Singing Comedian.”
This is the only instance I have seen where Donna was promoted under the “Bobbed Hair Bandits” title. The phrase likely alluded to Celia Cooney, the so-called “Bobbed Hair Bandit,” a notorious New York criminal whose exploits in 1924–25 received widespread press attention. The bobbed haircut itself symbolized modern womanhood and new social freedoms of the 1920s. It seems that Donna experimented with the label briefly but did not continue to use it.
The Moon Theater, Omaha
Moon Theater, Omaha – 1922
1918 – Opened as Moon Theater. 1929 – Transitioned to burlesque programming 1933 – Renamed Town Theater 1958 – Remodeled as Cooper Theater (Cooper 70) 1974 – Closed 1975 – Demolished.
Based on the 1810 Census, his father is likely either Gideon or Pleasant.
In The Life and Travels of Peter Howell, Page 14, Peter mentions, “we settled on my brother Henry’s land, where we lived until the fall.” So, I thought researching Henry might provide clues to his and Peter’s parents.
Census Evidence
1870 Census – Virginia, Buckingham County, Marshall Township, Page 26 – Lines 22, 23:
Howell, Henry 63 M W. Farmer 500//100 Virginia – Citizen
—, Judith 72 F W. Keeping House, Virginia
Call, Susan 21 F W Domestic Servant Virginia – cannot read or write.
1860 Census – Virginia, Buckingham County, District 2, Page 36 – Post Office: New Canton:
Howell, Henry 53 M W. Farmer 500//2000 Virginia
—, Judeth 55 F W. Virginia
The Agricultural Schedule indicates his farm is one of the smallest farms in the area. It comprised 77 acres; 40 acres of his property were improved, and 37 were not. He had three horses, one cow, and seven swine. He grew corn, oats, tobacco, and potatoes.
The 1860 Slave Schedule indicates that Henry had four enslaved individuals—a 65-year-old woman, a 40-year-old man, an 18-year-old mulatto woman, and an 11-year-old mulatto boy.
1850 Census – Virginia, Buckingham County, District 1, Page 739, Lines 25-28:
Gideon Howell 42 Farming $375
Mary 50
James 18 Labourer
Henry 43 Labourer
It appears that Henry is living with his brother (possibly a cousin) Gideon and Gideon’s apparent wife, Mary. Gideon has an apparent son, James, living with them. The indexer indicated that James’ middle initial is S, and Henry’s is I. However, I don’t see enough difference between the enumerator’s S, I, and J to be confident of either’s middle initial.
1840 Census – Virginia, Buckingham County, District 2, Page 16.
80-90 Unknown. Because I suspect Peter and Gideon are brothers and Peter’s father died in 1917, I suspect this person is more likely to be another family member.
Females
30-40 Apparently, Mary, age 40.
Free Colored People
2 Males Under 10
1 Male 10 -24
2 Females under 10
1 Female 36-55
Peter Howell – 1 – – – 1 || 1 1 – – 1 ||- 1
Males
1 5 to 10 Apparently, Phillip, age 7
1 30 to 40 Apparently, Peter, age 35
Females
1 under 5 Apparently, Elizabeth, age 5
1 5 to 10 Apparently, Lousianna, age 10
1 20-30 Apparently, Caroline, age 28
Free Colored People
1 10 to 24.
Important Notes
– Do not confuse this Henry Howell with Henry Howell, born about 1807 in Halifax County and died 13 Oct 1856. He served in the 4th Colored Infantry.
Several researchers suggest Henry Howell married Susan Tyler on 2 Apr 1829 in Goochland County, Virginia. Because I believe my Henry Howell lived in Buckingham County and had a wife named Judith, I think this is probably a different Henry Howell.
Conclusion
It has been a lovely couple of days of work, and I’ve learned much about Henry, Gideon, and Peter Howell. Hopefully, this will help me determine who Peter’s parents are.
Also, I am delighted to see that both Peter and Gideon had Free Colored People in their households in 1840 and not enslaved people.
The Linwood Dyer Collection, Part 084 Photo Friday By Don Taylor
This remarkable collection encompasses hundreds of images, documents, and genealogical records of people who lived in Portland, Scarborough, South Portland, and Cape Elizabeth, Maine. My mission is to connect these historical photographs with descendants who may have never seen these images of their ancestors. This post examines a set of loose photos discovered in the Linwood Dyer “white room.”
Philip Hinkley – U.S. Army Major, 1918.
A formal sepia-tone studio portrait of Philip Hinkley, this photograph shows him in uniform with the collar insignia “U.S.R.” — indicating his service in the United States Army Reserve during the World War I period. His composed expression and upright posture are typical of military portraits of the era. The uniform suggests he held an officer’s rank, possibly a major, based on the oak leaf insignia visible on the shoulder epaulet. His hair is neatly parted, and his uniform bears the stylistic hallmarks of the 1917–1919 timeframe.
“Major Philip Hinkley, captured in a moment of solemn readiness during World War I.
Studio: Not identified Estimated Date: Circa 1917–1919 Service Branch: U.S. Army Reserve (USR)
I’ve encountered photos of Philip Hinkley [Hinckley] in my Linwood Dyer Genealogical Collection previously. He was born on 30 Oct 1881 in Portland, Maine, went into active service as a captain on 15 Aug 1917, and was promoted to Major on 15 Feb 1918. His parents were Rufus Henry and Frances Elizabeth (Prindle) Hinkley. This photo was likely taken shortly after his promotion to Major.
Mrs. Annie Monroe (left) enjoys a successful day by the sea with a younger companion.
This image captures Mrs. Annie Monroe alongside a younger woman (possibly a relative or family friend), standing on a rocky shoreline, likely along the coast of Maine. The older woman is dressed in a dark coat and sturdy shoes, carrying fishing line. The younger woman, outfitted in a sailor-inspired blouse and skirt with a belt, holds a tackle box and two freshly caught fish. A serene body of water and distant tree line form the backdrop.
My Linwood Dyer Genealogical Collection suggests this is Annie J. (Fearns) Monroe, the wife of George H Monroe and the father of William Harris Monroe. A “memory” with the group of photos mentions that Bill Monroe’s mother was Winslow Homer’s housekeeper for years.
“Mrs. Annie Monroe (center) enjoys a day at the beach with friends or family.”
Likely from the 1930s or 1940s, this beachside photo features Mrs. Annie Monroe (center, in a floral print dress) surrounded by four other adults. A woman in a polka-dot dress and lace overlay stands to her left, with three men behind—including one in a fedora and another in a flat cap. This casual, candid group setting evokes a family outing or reunion. The back notes, “Hugh Gunnison,” suggest the possible presence of Gunnison friends or relatives.
File Name: Ethel Baines – Mitchell’s Studio, 559 Congress St. Portland, ME.jpeg
Ethel Baines, photographed at Mitchell’s Studio on Congress Street in Portland, Maine—circa 1905.
This delicately posed studio portrait features Ethel Baines, whose name is recorded on the back. She wears a white high-necked lace dress and bonnet, gently holding the ribbons. Her hairstyle is voluminous, popular during the Edwardian era. The portrait was professionally taken at Mitchell’s Studio, once located at 559 Congress Street, Portland, Maine.
Studio: Mitchell’s Studio, Portland, ME Estimated Date: Circa 1900–1910
I am unable to identify Ethel Baine positively. I have uploaded her photo to Dead Fred.
Sarah Blair – Shea Artist Studio, Boston, c. 1875
Sarah Blair, captured with quiet poise by Shea Artist of Hanover Street, Boston.
This cartes des visites presents Sarah Blair, a young (apparent) African American woman, in a formal pose. The image was taken by Shea Artist, a portrait studio located at 194 ½ Hanover Street, Boston, Massachusetts, during the 1870s. Her dignified expression and simple attire reflect the understated strength and grace of many 19th-century sitters. This portrait is likely from the 1870s–1880s, based on the vignette style and card mount.
Studio: Shea Artist, Boston, MA Estimated Date: 1875–1885
I have not been successful in determining Sarah’s identity other than her name; I uploaded her photo to Dead Fred.
Connection Invitation
I would be delighted to hear from anyone who recognizes these individuals as their ancestors, particularly if these photographs represent previously unseen images of your family members. Please feel free to incorporate these photographs into your genealogical research, citing “Photo Courtesy: Scarborough Historical Society.”
The Linwood Dyer Collection, Part 083 “HRJ Classmates & Others” By Don Taylor
This remarkable collection encompasses hundreds of images, documents, and genealogical records of people who lived in Portland, Scarborough, South Portland, and Cape Elizabeth, Maine. My mission is to connect these historical photographs with descendants who may have never seen these images of their ancestors. This post looks at a set of photos that was bound by a ring of paper with the words, “HRJ (Helena Ruth Jackson) Classmates & Others.”
Priscella Ferguson – Portland High School, Class of 1923.
Priscilla Ferguson PHS Class 1923
Among the treasures in the Linwood Dyer Collection is this beautifully composed portrait of Priscella Ferguson, taken by Portland photographer Roger Paul Jordan. Jordan operated in Portland from the 1910s through the 1960s. His soft-focus style and careful lighting are evident in this striking sepia image.
A separate note with the photo says: “Priscella Ferguson – Grad 1923.”
The inscription offers a more personal glimpse into her school years:
“To Helena, The most wonderful captain of the most wonderful team. Here’s hoping she won’t forget. Yours truly and everything we’ve done from ’19–’23. – Pur”
Helena Ruth Jackson was the captain of the girls basketball team for Portland High School in 1923. Priscella also played on the 1923 PHS girls basketball team.
Florence Hamilton – Portland High School, Class of 1922.
Florence Hamilton – PHS Class 1922
This elegant portrait of Florence Hamilton was taken by noted Portland photographer Roger Paul Jordan, whose studio captured many students and community members during the 1920s. Jordan’s soft-focus technique, balanced lighting, and careful posing highlight the grace and poise of his subjects.
Florence appears in a dark satin dress trimmed with fringe, accessorized with a string of pearls. Her short, softly curled hairstyle reflects the new fashions of the early 1920s, a time when young women embraced modern styles of independence and expression.
Beneath the photograph is a handwritten inscription, offering a thoughtful reflection:
“In after years, when this you see, I wonder what your name will be? Florence”
A review of the PHS 1922 Class yearbook found a similar photo of Florence wearing the same dress.
Elizabeth Alphonsa O’Brien – Portland High School, Class of 1922.
Elizabeth O’Brien – PHS Class of 1922
This portrait, also taken by Roger Paul Jordan of Portland, is mounted on the same distinctive studio card stock as other Class of 1922 photographs, including Florence Hamilton’s. “Odie” P.H.S. ‘22”
She wears a dark jacket or dress over a lighter blouse, and her expression reflects both confidence and warmth. The mounting and style suggest a formal graduation portrait, but the handwritten inscription adds a deeply personal touch as she shares her camaraderie in a handwritten inscription:
“To ‘Spooks’ – May your future years at basketball be as successful as the past. Best of luck to you Spooks, Captain of the ‘Swifts.’ Lovingly, ‘Odie’ P.H.S. ’22.”
This young woman is captured in Jordan’s signature soft-focus style, her face illuminated against a subdued backdrop. Through both the photograph and the message, we catch a glimpse of student life and athletics at Portland High School just over a century ago.
Alice Maude Sturdivant – Portland High School, Class of 1923.
Alice Sturdivant – PHS Class 1923
This portrait of Alice Maude Sturdivant was taken by Adams Studio, 515a Congress Street, Portland, Maine, and is mounted on its original studio card. Alice, a member of the Portland High School Class of 1923, appears in a dark sweater worn over a light blouse with a wide collar tied at the neck. Her softly waved hair frames her face, and the studio’s careful lighting highlights her gentle smile.
Like many graduation photographs of the period, this one was not only a keepsake image but also a vehicle for personal inscriptions exchanged among classmates. Beneath the portrait, Alice penned a note to a friend:
“To the wonderful captain of the 1923 team. You’re a peach even if you did cut me out. Will you ever forget the time that you told me that Mr. Lowe wanted to see me and the many 20 minutes in Miss Swain’s room. Loads of love ‘Al’ Sturdivant”
The humorous and affectionate tone of the message highlights the camaraderie of the Class of 1923, giving us a glimpse into student life, athletics, and friendships that went well beyond the classroom.
Connection Invitation
I would be delighted to hear from anyone who recognizes these individuals as their ancestors, particularly if these photographs represent previously unseen images of your family members. Please feel free to incorporate these photographs into your genealogical research, citing “Photo Courtesy: Scarborough Historical Society.”
The Linwood Dyer Collection, Part 082 By Don Taylor
From the Linwood D. Dyer Collection / Fredricks’ Knickerbocker Family Portrait Gallery
Introduction
The Linwood D. Dyer Collection reveals deeply moving portraits of individuals whose lives echo through our local history. Today, I present Lieutenant Colonel John S. Kidder, veteran of the 121st New York Volunteers, and his wife Harriet O. (Matteson) Kidder—both of Laurens, Otsego County, New York. Their photographs were taken at Fredricks’ Knickerbocker Family Portrait Gallery, 770 Broadway, New York, between c. 1876 and 1891.
Lt. Col. John S. Kidder (1830–1905)
John S. Kidder, Liet Col. 121 N.Y.V – 1876-c.1891 – 2
Born: 20 February 1830, Kent, England; Died: 19 May 1905, Laurens, Otsego County, New York; Burial: Laurens Village Cemetery[i].
Civil War Service: He served in the 121st New York Infantry Regiment, eventually attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, and saw action in many key battles—from Antietam and Gettysburg to the Wilderness and Petersburg[ii]. Companies I and K of the 121st were largely drawn from towns including Laurens, which was part of his region.
Portrait: The cabinet card shows him in formal attire and is inscribed on the back with: “Yours Truly, John S. Kidder Lieut. Col. 121st N.Y.V. Laurens, Otsego Co., N.Y.” This personal inscription adds a treasured, tangible connection to his photo.
Harriet, née Matteson, was John’s devoted partner. The couple navigated the strains of wartime separation together—his letters home, referenced in historical accounts, depict the challenges of camp life and her steadfast role at home[iv].
Portrait: The cabinet card captures her earnest gaze and period dress. Inscribed on the back: “Mrs. J. S. Kidder, Laurens, Otsego Co., N.Y.” This pairing of likeness and locality grounds her presence in both image and inscription.
Fredricks’ Knickerbocker Family Portrait Gallery
These cabinet cards were produced at Fredricks’ Knickerbocker Family Portrait Gallery, located at 770 Broadway, corner of 9th Street, New York, and were active between c. 1876 and 1891.
Preserving Their Legacy
By presenting the two portraits, we honor a veteran and his wife whose lives were deeply impacted by the Civil War. Their handwritten notes and images offer moving portals to the past—reminding us of service, resilience, and familial ties that endured through war and peace. I have shared their photos on Find a Grave and on their FamilySearch profiles.
