December 20, 1880, they joined Kyle’s “Christy” Minstrels in Boston for a brief engagement.
After the death of Rit his place was taken by John Mosure, and as the “Three Rankins” they played with Leavitt’s Giganteans, in 1882. The death of Will broke up the act, and Carl joined Thatcher, Primrose and West’s Minstrels July 3, 1885. A few weeks after this he left the company to become a partner with George Wilson in his company, which was known as Barlow, Wilson and Rankin’s Minstrels.
Carl Rankin’s last appearance was with Lew Dockstader’s permanent minstrel company in New York, which he joined in 1887.
Carl Rankin had a superb bass voice, and as a comedian had developed into one of the best in minstrelsy. His death was a severe blow to the profession.
Rit Rankin died in Columbus, Ohio, December 11, 1881.
Will Rankin died in Philadelphia, January 31, 1885; age 30 years.
Carl Rankin was born in Columbus, Ohio, October, 1859; he died in Philadelphia, November 25, 1888.
Harrigan and Hart formed a partnership in the Spring of 1871. Prior to this Tony Hart, who was known as Master Anthony Cannon, appeared with various minstrel companies as a ballad singer.
February 26, 1872, they began an engagement with Arlington, Cotton and Kemble’s Minstrels in Chicago. In later years they each played in black-face on several occasions, notably Mr. Harrigan as “Pete.” Mr. Hart was probably the best “genteel wench” that ever trod the boards.
Edw. Harrigan was born in New York, October 26, 1845.