Table of Contents
Lotta Crabtree (Actress)
Charlotte Mignon Crabtree, fondly known as Lotta Crabtree, was more than just an American actress and entertainer; she was a symbol of charisma, talent, and generosity. Born on November 7, 1847, in the bustling streets of New York City, her journey to fame traversed the gold-laden hills of Northern California. It was there, amidst the fervor of the California Gold Rush, that her star began to shine brightly.
From the tender age of six, Lotta Crabtree captivated audiences with her performances, swiftly earning the endearing title of “The Nation’s Darling.” Her ascent to stardom was meteoric, and by the time she retired at the age of 45, she had become one of the wealthiest and most adored entertainers of the late 19th century.
But Lotta Crabtree’s story isn’t just one of glitz and glamour; it’s a testament to resilience and determination. Raised in Grass Valley, California, where her family ran a boarding house, she found early inspiration in the arts through her neighbor, the famed dancer and actress Lola Montez.
In 1885, Lotta Crabtree’s life took on new dimensions with the construction of her 18-room summer retreat, Attol Tryst, nestled in the picturesque Breslin Park of Mount Arlington, New Jersey. Designed by the renowned architect Frank Furness, this haven became a sanctuary where Lotta indulged in her passions for painting, hosting lavish parties, and communing with nature.
As her illustrious career unfolded, Lotta Crabtree’s philanthropic spirit shone as brightly as her performances. She spent her final years at the Brewster Hotel in Boston, a property she had acquired in 1909. It was there, on September 25, 1924, at the age of 76, that she bid farewell to the world, leaving behind a legacy of joy and generosity.
In her obituary, the New York Times aptly dubbed her the “eternal child,” capturing the essence of her playful and spirited nature. Lotta Crabtree’s endowment of $4 million to charitable trusts, benefiting veterans, aging actors, and animals, attests to her compassionate soul. Though her will face challenges, her benevolent spirit endures through the trust that bears her name to this day.
Lotta’s indelible mark on American entertainment transcends time, immortalized not only in the annals of history but also on the silver screen. Her life story, portrayed in the 1951 film Golden Girl, continues to inspire audiences, while her fictionalized depictions in television, notably in Bonanza, serve as tributes to her enduring legacy.
New York City, U.S.
| Charlotte Mignon Crabtree | |
| Name | Lotta Crabtree |
| Date of Birth | November 7, 1847 |
| Birth Place | New York City, U.S. |
| Profession | Actress |
| Died | September 25, 1924 |
| Death Place | Boston, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Resting Place | Woodlawn Cemetery |
| Career | 1853–1892 |
| Parents | John Ashworth Crabtree |
Early Life and Background
Charlotte Mignon Crabtree’s journey began in the heart of New York City on November 7, 1847. Her father, John Ashworth Crabtree, ventured westward to San Francisco in 1851 in pursuit of the elusive fortunes of the California Gold Rush. Two years later, young Charlotte, along with her mother Mary Ann, joined him in the bustling boomtown of Grass Valley, where they operated a boarding house. It was here that Charlotte, affectionately known as Lotta, found her passion for performing, nurtured by none other than Lola Montez, a renowned dancer and actress who lived nearby.
The family’s ventures didn’t cease with Grass Valley; they soon relocated to Rabbit Creek, where Lotta Crabtree made her professional debut at a local tavern, supported by the Robinson Family of performers. Her talents as a dancer, singer, and banjo player began to garner attention as she toured the California mining camps, carving a name for herself in the burgeoning entertainment scene.
By 1856, the Crabtrees found themselves back in San Francisco, where Lotta became one of the early performers at Rowena Granice Steele’s The Gaieties, Temple of Mirth and Song Theater and saloon. With her magnetic stage presence, she quickly rose to prominence, earning the title of “Miss Lotta, the San Francisco Favorite” by 1859. Under the guidance of her mother, who managed her career and meticulously collected her earnings in gold, Lotta’s star continued to ascend.
As silver was discovered in Nevada in 1859, Lotta Crabtree’s popularity soared even higher. Her performances were marked by a playful charm, as she engaged with her audience, amusing them with her antics and collecting thrown coins in her stockings. Despite her fame, Lotta remained grounded, and supported by her family, including her two brothers.
Lotta Crabtree remarkable life has inspired artistic interpretations, such as the two-act musical comedy aptly titled “Lotta Crabtree,” penned by Gerald P. Murphy. This portrayal of her early years during the California Gold Rush captures the essence of her vivacious spirit. Over the years, Lotta’s legacy has been immortalized on both screen and stage, with actresses like Mitzi Gaynor and Gloria Jean bringing her story to life.
However, some fictional depictions, like the one in the 1959 episode of “Bonanza,” stray from historical accuracy, casting Lotta in a role far removed from her real-life endeavors. Nevertheless, her enduring presence in popular culture serves as a testament to her enduring influence and timeless appeal.
Career
After establishing herself as a sensation in California, Crabtree embarked on a journey to the East Coast in 1864 to explore new theatrical horizons. There, she dazzled audiences with her performances in iconic plays such as “The Old Curiosity Shop,” “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” and “Little Nell and the Marchioness.”
Despite her petite frame, Crabtree’s talent for portraying children endeared her to audiences, making her a favorite onstage. The late 1860s witnessed the rise of dances named after her, like the “Lotta Polka” and the “Lotta Gallup,” which swept across America. By the age of 20, she had become a national sensation, and by 1875, she was touring the country with her theatrical troupe, reaching the pinnacle of her fame in the 1870s and 1880s.
Fred Marsden’s plays, notably “Zip” (1874) and “Musette” (1876), provided Crabtree with starring roles and further cemented her status as a leading actress. Throughout the 1880s, she commanded exorbitant salaries, sometimes earning up to $5,000 per week. Behind the scenes, her mother, Mary Ann, skillfully managed Crabtree’s affairs, from booking plays to investing her earnings in real estate, racehorses, and bonds. Additionally, Crabtree’s philanthropic endeavors included supporting local charities and funding the construction of fountains, such as the iconic Lotta Crabtree Fountain in San Francisco, which stands as a symbol of resilience and community.
Crabtree’s pursuits extended beyond the stage, as she traveled abroad with her family, immersing herself in language, culture, and art. Her return to San Francisco was met with enthusiastic acclaim, reaffirming her status as a beloved hometown hero.
In 1885, Crabtree’s mother commissioned the construction of Attol Tryst, an opulent 18-room summer retreat in Mount Arlington, New Jersey, overlooking Lake Hopatcong. Designed by the esteemed architect Frank Furness, this picturesque estate became a haven for Crabtree, where she indulged in leisurely pursuits such as hosting lavish parties, horseback riding, and nurturing her passion for painting. Today, Attol Tryst is a testament to Crabtree’s enduring legacy, which has been lovingly restored in recent years to preserve its historic charm.
Life Beyond the Stage
Crabtree’s illustrious career came to an unexpected halt after a fall onstage during a performance in Wilmington, Delaware, in May 1889. Although she recuperated at Lake Hopatcong, she made a brief attempt at a comeback in 1891, only to find a lukewarm reception from the public, leading her to retire permanently from the stage. Despite calls for a farewell tour, Crabtree chose to exit gracefully at the height of her success, recognizing the changing landscape of theater. However, she made a poignant final appearance in 1915 for “Lotta Crabtree Day” at the Panama-Pacific Exposition in San Francisco.
While Crabtree’s life seemed to be adorned with romance, her extensive travels, unconventional lifestyle, and close relationship with her mother made it challenging for her to sustain long-term relationships, and she remained unmarried. Following her retirement, Crabtree continued to explore her passions, traveling extensively, honing her skills as a painter (even studying in Paris in 1912), and engaging in charitable endeavors.
In her later years, Crabtree settled in Massachusetts, where she owned land in the Squantum section of Quincy, near Boston. Much of this land was eventually sold as housing lots, but remnants of her presence remain, including markers commemorating her beloved horses, “Ruby Royal” and “Sonoma Girl.” Streets in the area bear names connected to her family history, such as Ashworth Road and Livesey Road.
Crabtree spent her final years at the Brewster Hotel in Boston, a property she had acquired in 1909. It was there, on September 25, 1924, at the age of 76, that she passed away, surrounded by the memories of her remarkable life. In her obituary, the New York Times affectionately referred to her as the “eternal child,” capturing her spirited essence. She was laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx, New York, leaving behind an estate valued at approximately $4 million. Her legacy of generosity endured through the establishment of a charitable trust, supporting causes close to her heart, despite legal challenges. Today, her memory lives on through the continued impact of her philanthropic endeavors.
Personal life
Charlotte Mignon Crabtree, affectionately known as Lotta, was a multifaceted American icon, celebrated for her prowess as an actress, entertainer, comedian, and philanthropist. Born on November 7, 1847, in the vibrant metropolis of New York City, she spent her formative years amidst the rugged splendor of Northern California’s gold mining hills. It was in this picturesque setting that Lotta Crabtree star began to ascend, captivating audiences with her extraordinary talents from a tender age.
From her early days as a child performer, Lotta exhibited a natural flair for the stage, quickly garnering widespread acclaim. Her journey to fame was swift, propelled by her infectious charm and boundless energy.
Lotta Crabtree’s legacy extends far beyond the footlights, encompassing her tireless dedication to philanthropy and her enduring impact on American entertainment. Despite her passing on September 25, 1924, in Boston, Massachusetts, at the age of 76, her influence continues to resonate, immortalizing her as a beloved figure in the annals of theatrical history.
Throughout her remarkable life, Lotta Crabtree was guided by the unwavering support of her parents, particularly her father, John Ashworth Crabtree, whose influence undoubtedly shaped her illustrious career.
Summary
Charlotte Mignon Crabtree, also known as Lotta Crabtree, was a versatile American figure renowned for her talents as an actress, entertainer, comedian, and philanthropist. Born in New York City on November 7, 1847, she rose to fame as a child performer in the gold mining hills of Northern California. Throughout her career, she captivated audiences with her charm and energy, leaving a lasting legacy in American entertainment. Lotta Crabtree’s contributions extended beyond the stage, as she dedicated herself to charitable causes, leaving a mark on society that endures to this day.
In her repertoire of performances, Lotta Crabtree graced the stage with notable productions such as “Firefly,” “Hearts Ease,” “Topsy,” and “The Little Difference,” among others. These roles showcased her versatility and talent, earning her widespread acclaim and solidifying her status as a beloved entertainer. Lotta Crabtree’s enduring impact is further underscored by her philanthropic endeavors and the admiration she garnered throughout her lifetime, solidifying her place in history as an iconic figure in American entertainment.
Career Statistics
Filmography
| Film | 8 |
| Television | N/A |
| Video games | N/A |
| Music Video | N/A |
| Total | 8 |
Awards
| Won | N/A |
| Nominated | N/A |
| Total | N/A |
Television
Film
| Title |
|---|
| Firefly |
| Hearts Ease |
| Topsy |
| The Little Difference |
| Musette |
| Mam’zelle |
| Nitouche |
| Zip |
Video Games
Music Video
Awards
Gallery
Internal Links
External Links
- Lotta Crabtree Actress - Selective Ranks
