May Irwin

May Irwin was a famous comedian, actress, and vaudeville performer from 1874 until her death in 1938.

Irwin, May, Comedienne

This popular comedienne is so closely associated with good humor and droll fun that the mere mention of her name is usually the signal for mirth. She invariably keeps her audience in a laughable mood with quaint witticism and the inimitable way in which she sings her clever songs. 

Originally from Canada, she got started in comedy as a teenager with her sister Flo as a way to make money after their father died. About three years after booking a gig in New York, their careers took off.

At age 21, May set out on her own to join Augustin Daly's stock company (1883 to 1887), her first theater performance, where she became known for her improv skills.

In the 1890s, she expanded into Vaudeville performances including The Widow Jones. After seeing it, Thomas Edison himself produced a film based on one of the scenes. It was called The Kiss, and it starred Irwin in what was the first kiss in cinematic history.

In addition to plays and movies, she also wrote her own songs like, Frog Song or Ragtime Dance. She also did a movie called Mrs. Black is Back (only movie stills exist now).

She was a beloved performer and smart business woman. She had a summer home in the secluded Club island and a winter home on Merritt Island, but she eventually retired at a farm in New York. She passed away at age 76.