Horace Weston, a colored man, was one of the world’s greatest banjoists; in addition he was a good general musician and dancer; a fact that is not generally known.
He served in the Army, and in July, 1863, was discharged, after which he joined Buckley’s Serenaders in Boston, and later traveled with them. About 1867 he became a member of the Georgia Minstrels, a famous colored organization.
In 1878 he went to Europe with an “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” Company; he played the principal Continental cities, and was a sensation.
Returning to America he joined Haverly’s Georgia Minstrels. The balance of his career was spent mostly in the variety theatres.
Horace Weston was born in Derby, Conn., in 1825; he died in New York, May 23, 1890.
The honor and distinction (and the pleasant sensation) of having received the highest salary ever paid to any black-face single performer belongs to Lew Dockstader.
Tim Woodruff appeared mostly in the West, where he was recognized as a truly great comedian.
His first appearance was made in Cincinnati, March 15, 1842; in an act called “Spirit Rappings,” later more generally known as the “Haunted House;” he achieved great success in this, and was forever identified with it.