Adelaide Neilson papers, 1870-1911.

Links

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Creator

Neilson, Adelaide, 1848-1880.

Location

Billy Rose Theatre Division

Extent

• .25 lin. ft. (1 box)

Access Restrictions

Collection is open to the public. Library policy on photography and photocopying will apply. Advance notice may be required.

Scope/Contents Note

The Adelaide Neilson Papers consist primarily of correspondence to her mother Anne Bland. Other papers include legal documents, personal items and clippings. The bulk of the materials document her life between 1870 and 1880, the rest of the collection concern her brother'slegal dealings over the disposition of her mother's estate.

Biographical/Historical Note

Adelaide Neilson, on of the most popular and successful 19th century actresses was born in or near Leeds, Yorkshire, England. She was born out of wedlock and never knew her father. Her mother married a Mr. Bland andthe family settled in Guiseley. The young Lizzie Ann (MissNeilson's real name) worked in a mill and then as a nurse girl. She was probably seventeen when she made her way toLondon where she subsequently began her acting career. Her first appearance was in 1865 at the Margate Theatre. From 1870 on "she was a reigning actress of the English stage" and was popular in America as well. She is best remembered for her portrayal of Juliet in Shakespeare's ROMEO AND JULIET. She married Philip Henry Lee in 1864. This ended in divorce. She died quite suddenly in Paris in 1880.

Controlled Access Terms

• Neilson, Adelaide, 1848-1880.
• Bland, Charles R.
• Neilson, Adelaide, 1848-1880 -- Biography.
• Bland, Anne.
• Theater -- England -- 19th century.
• Photoprints.
• Correspondence.
• Clippings.

Additional Creator Name

• Bland, Charles R.