Evidently Mr. Newcomb did not relish the idea of a sea trip, and “Pony” Moore, on his own initiative, went to London and presented himself to his former manager. It is an odd fact that on this occasion Mr. Moore had to sign an agreement “not to be too funny.”
It had been remarked that during the period of Pierce’s death and the subsequent occupation of his chair by Moore, that it remained vacant. This is inaccurate. Pending the advent of “Pony” Moore, it was occupied by W. P. Collins, a member of the company. Mr. Moore continued with the company for one year, at the expiration of which, Mr. Raynor retired to private life. Several companies sprang from the parent organization, one of which, Wilsom and Montague’s “Christy’s,” Mr. Moore joined.
It is pertinent at this juncture to remark that from this period, all minstrel organizations were known as “Christy’s” in England.
Mr. Moore continued with Wilsom and Montague for about four years, and immediately after, in conjunction with Johnny Ritter, J. P. Crocker and Henry Hamilton, organized a company bearing their names; with the exception of the latter, all were performers. They gave their first performance at Chester, England, November 14, 1864.
After playing through the provinces for several months, they opened in London, at St. James Hall, September 18, 1865. Subsequently through purchase and death’s intervention, Mr. Moore was sole owner of the company. Later, Fred. Burgess was taken in partnership, and as Moore and Burgess’ Minstrels flourished several years. Mr. Moore’s last appearance with his own company was in January, 1894.
April 9, 1904, saw the last of permanent minstrelsy in London. It seemed that a minstrel show at St. James Hall without “Pony” Moore was like “Hamlet” without Hamlet.
Mr. Moore’s last appearance was made in London at the Pavilion for the benefit of Mr. Frank Glenister.
Mr. Moore was twice married; first about 1860, and subsequently in 1884. Three daughters were the result of the first union. They married Fred. Vokes, of the famous theatrical family of that name; Charles Mitchell, the former champion pugilist, and Eugene Stratton, the premier black-face vaudeville artist in England. With the exception of the latter, all were English born.
“Pony” Moore was born in New York City, February 22, 1820; he died in London, England, October 1, 1909.
Frank Lynch was one of the great dancers of early minstrelsy. He traveled with Barnum in the 40’s as “John Diamond,” after the great showman had had difficulties with the original Diamond. Lynch was last heard of in St. Louis, Mo., in 1859.