Subsequently he joined the Morris’ Minstrels, remaining five years.
Later he became a member of Emerson and Manning’s Minstrels, and after these artists separated early in 1870, Mr. Kemble cast his fortunes with the latter in Chicago. In that same city (Billy) Arlington, (Ben) Cotton and Kemble’s Minstrels were organized in 1871, and continued there about three years.
In 1875 Mr. Kemble was with Emerson’s Minstrels in Chicago.
He was also a member of the Dearborn Minstrels in the Illinois Metropolis, opening August 21, 1871.
Likewise in Chicago did he join Haverly’s Minstrels, March 11, 1878, and September 16, same year, he began a brief engagement with Sweatnam’s Minstrels in Philadelphia.
Mr. Kemble then went to England, and was with Moore and Burgess’ Minstrels for about twenty years.
He married Miss Ella Turner, an actress, about 1870.
J. R. Kemble was born in Kent, England, 1838; he died in London, England, June 11, 1908.
George W. Charles, the old-time wench dancer made his first appearance at the International Theatre in New York in 1852; subsequently he was with Dave. Reed’s Minstrels on Spalding and Rogers’ boat the “James Raymond,” this was as early as July 18, 1856; after this he did sketches with Billy Coleman. In 1869 he was with Carncross and Dixey’s Minstrels in Philadelphia; he remained there several seasons, and was a prime favorite.
Mr. Charles was among the earliest black-face prima donnas.