Frank Kent was one of the early female impersonators, or wench dancers, as these performers were originally known.
In December, 1842, at the Franklin Theatre in New York, Master Kent appeared in a variety entertainment.
For many years he appeared with the various minstrel companies, notably Howard Burlesque Opera Troupe; San Franciscos in New York; Duprez and Benedict, in Philadelphia; Duprez and Green’s; Arlington, Cotton and Kemble’s in Chicago, and Morris Brothers, Pell and Trowbridge, in Boston. In all probability his last appearance in minstrelsy was with Wm. Henry Rice’s Company, commencing July 17, 1890.
Frank Kent was born in Salem, Mass.; he died in Cooperstown, N. Y., August 15, 1906; age about 75 years.
Thomas P. Brower, a brother of Frank Brower, one of the organizers of the first minstrel show, and himself a performer of ability, died in Philadelphia, March 15, 1867; age 37 years.
Duke Morgan, an old-time violinist and musician of the real early days of minstrelsy, died in New York City in October, 1881.
Otto Burbank was one of the best jig dancers in the early minstrel days, likewise a good comedian. He was prominently identified with some of the best minstrel organizations, notably Collins’ “Christy” Minstrels, in London, England, in 1862.
He died at Peoria, Ill., February 13, 1882.
Harry Pell, an old-time black-face comedian, who was an excellent stump orator, played several minstrel engagements, notably with the Morris company in 1863.
He died in New York City, June 1, 1866.