Morris, Eddie (1887-1932) | University of Illinois Archives

Name: Morris, Eddie (1887-1932)

Historical Note: Eddie Morris (1887-1932) was born and raised in Decatur, Illinois. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. E. J. Morris, and his father was a well known tailor to the Decatur community. Eddie had a fascination for the theatrical stage as a young boy, and his ability to mimic personalities made him a popular entertainer for the local community. When he was old enough to work he took a position with the Decatur Powers Opera house and was given the position of treasurer. He later worked for the H. I. Baldwin Grain and Commission company, and in 1907 went to Philadelphia as the private secretary to the president of the Economic Life Insurance Company. With this experience and his love of the stage he took a position as secretary for Henry W. Savage, who at the time, was the leading theatrical producer in New York City. Eddie's talent was soon recognized and he was give a part in George Ade's "College Widow," and his theatrical career matured in major parts in Frohman's "Arcadians," Klaw and Erlanger's "Pink Lady," "The Little Cafe," and many other productions. In 1915 he travelled to England where he worked on two motion pictures. As a travelling actor he toured much of the eastern United States, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, England, and South Africa. After returning to the United States after World War I he settled in California with his wife, daughter, and mother.