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Stella Tracey (1888-1960) of Australia & USA, Vaudeville Singer, Dancer & Comedian

Little Stella Tracey 20 June 1901 Punch (Melbourne, Vic) Little Stella Tracey 20 June 1901 Punch (Melbourne, Vic) 1904 The Royal Chef September 28, 1904 The Minneapolis journal February 11, 1906 The Minneapolis journal 9 Sept 1911 Variety 1912 That Swaying Harmony, Sung with great success by Stella Tracey Oct. 9, 1949 The Philadelphia Inquirer Magazine

Stella Tracey was born in 1888 Carlton, Victoria Australia, the only daughter of Daniel Tracey and Mary Leitita Bray. Her father was a well known performer and promoter. She started to make his first stage appearances from an early age appearing in pantomimes doing song & dance routines and character impersonations on the Rickards' circuit and in J. C Williamson's pantomimes. The family emigrated to the USA about 1900 but she still made an impact back in Australia. In 1901, Australian Punch ran a picture spread of ‘Little Stella Tracey’, the Victorian child actress, who is creating a sensation at Tony Pastor's theatre in New York. She appeared on Broadway in The Show Girl (1902), A Chinese Honeymoon (1903), The Royal Chef (1904) Little Johnny Jones (1906-8) and The Soul Kiss (1908). She also frequently performed alongside Victor Stone and Lew Fields productions. In 1915, she married Carl McBride and teamed up with him as a musical comedy act. In 1917 she responded to a bad review in Variety and wrote a number of colourful letters to the editor, showing her fighting ability. She continued to appear as ‘Tracey and McBride” until 1925. In 1927 Carl McBride sued for divorce in Florida. As usual, Stella came out fighting, and in July 1928 sued the other woman Mrs. Catherine Lehlng of West Palm Beach, for $250,000 for criminal conversation and had her arrested. She was released on bail of $2,500, which was later reduced to $1,000. From 1925 to 1928, Stella Tracey and Jay Elwood did a routine called "Bits of Musical Shows” and "Bits of Broadway". She retired from the theatre and worked in department stores including Gimbels for the last twelve years of her life. She died the 5^th August 1960 in Philadelphia Pennsylvania aged 72 years. She had one child, Carl McBride jrn. Stella Treacy - Press Clippings 27 February 1896 Otago Witness Australian Stage Gossip...Stella Tracey, a six-year-old daughter of the well-known dancer Dan Tracey, does a clever song-and-dance turn in "Robinson Crusoe" at Sydney Her Majesty's... 11 July 1898 Evening News (Sydney, NSW) The Tivoli. Two new artists made their first appearance at the Tivoli on Saturday night— Stella Tracey, a juvenile serio-comic, and Mr. Miller A. Fraser, a Scottish descriptive tenor. Each had a good reception...A local juvenile named Stella Tracey, like other children who have preceded her at this playhouse, showed she had been well-trained in variety business... 6 Jul 1899 Geelong Advertiser (Vic) The Lazerne-Lawton Specialty Company. This evening will witness the initial performance at the Mechanics’ Institute of the above organisation. Among the performers is the child artist, little Stella Tracey, whose versatility is most pronounced. This clever young lady has just concluded a lengthy engagement with Messrs Williamson and Musgrove, where she achieved an emphatic success in "The Forty Thieves " pantomime, establishing a great reputation for her marvellous character impersonations and imitations of leading favorites. The fact of Miss Tracey appearing should in itself prove a decided attraction. 12 May 1900 South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA) ... 'Off to Rio Grande,' by Miss Stella Tracey;... 13 Jun 1901 Punch (Melbourne, Vic) The Playgoer. Australian playgoers win remember the clever little child actress and duodecimo edition of a specialty performer, Stella Tracey. Stella is the daughter of the well-known Dan Tracey, and was born in Carlton. She made her mark here and then went to America. At latest dates she vas appealing at Tony Pastor's Theatre, New York, and was creating a furore. Her present salary is £15 a week, and she is now only fourteen years old. N.T.B., as the boys say, for a little Australian. [pictures of Stella] May 20, 1902 New York Times ”Changes in “The Show Girl.” Stella Tracey, a young Australian comedienne, made her first appearance at Wal-lack’s Theatre last night, playing the rôle of Lady Betty Pringle in “The Show Girl.” 15 July 1903 Brooklyn Daily Eagle ...Miss Stella Tracey...at the Manhattan Beach Theatre..."A Chinese Honeymoon"... 14 Oct 1903 Referee (Sydney, NSW) General Gossip...Miss Ida Chester, in a lengthy letter from New York, says that Mr. Harry Salmon and herself have done extremely well since they landed In America twelve months ago, and continues : — 'We have met quite a few Australians over here, and also American friends who have been over to our side. Stella Tracey is making a name for herself with the 'Chinese Honeymoon' Company. Tom Armand is also a hit here with his. dancing. George Alexander and his wife (an Australian girl) have just left N.Y. with a burlesque company. George H. Wood and wife (Miriam Ainsworth) are hero In Now York. In fact, there arc quite a few Australians here, and most all doing well. Old Dan Tracey can be seen any day round the Actors' Union with a smile on his face, always pleased to meet a friend from over the water. Things are nice and easy with him in America. It is a wonderful place, and everything Is very good, but still at times one thinks of good old Australia, and I must say there is no place like homeo, sweet home. Mr. Salmon and myself Intend going to London before re turning to Australia. I should like you to kindly remember Mr. Salmon and myself to all Australian friends.'.' September 28, 1904 The Minneapolis journal Stella Tracey, The Clever Little Lady, Who Will. Entertain The Orphans In The Charity Series. Miss Stella Tracey of "The Royal Chef" company, the musical organization that comes to the Metropolitan Sunday night, has volunteered her services to The Journal its first entertainment for the little inmates of the Catholic orphan asylum and the Washburn home. She has always been interested in charitable matters. Miss Tracey was born in Australia, but her parents were American. While en route to this country the steamer on which she had taken passage stopped at Samoa. One of her fellow passengers, a missionary among the native Samoans, became acquainted with Miss Tracey and asked her if she would appear at the mission house and entertain the natives with some songs while the steamer laid over. She willingly agreed. It required but half an hour to get information to a large number of her charges, and the missionary escorted her to a commodious frame structure, almost filled with brown-skinned natives squatted picturesquely on the floor waiting to hear music "from the white bird's throat who lived in the world." Residents of other lands are spoken of by the Samoans as "from the world." After giving a few songs, the entertainer thought it would be a novelty to dance for them. This interested them greatly, and when she had finished and been applauded in native fashion by a series of grunts one of the boldest inquired if this dancing was a natural or acquired faculty. When informed that she had been taught, he proposed that if she would wait for the next steamer, due in twenty days, and teach him to dance, he would give her a feather shawl. Miss Tracey says. I would have dearly loved to acquire that shawl, a magnificent affair which required thousands of the little yellow birds' wings. Still, twenty days on that island was an awful price to pay." Before coming to America, Miss Tracey was the "headliner" of the child operatic stars in Australia, where there are many juvenile organizations presenting operas. Having reached the top of the ladder there, she came to New York. Not knowing a single manager, she volunteered one night for a benefit in aid of an indigent actor. Her sweet voice and clever imitations of actresses of note attracted the attention of Sam S. Shubert, who signed her for five years and placed her with the Chinese Honeymoon" company. This season she is one of the features with The Royal Chef,' a musical comedy, and it is expected that she will star at the head of an operatic organization that Mr. Shubert is to send out next season. [picture of Stella] June 24, 1905 Billboard ...Stella Tracey, Gus Weinberg and Edward Clark are the new additions to the Delmar Stock Co... 4 July 1908 The New York Dramatic Mirror Stella Tracey has been engaged by Joseph M. Galtes to play the role of Kate Armitage in Three Twins during the New York run... 16 September 1911 Variety Stella Tracey. Leaping ahead in vaudeville in great bounds, Stella Tracey has attracted unusual attention for a new comer. Miss Tracey entered vaudeville from musical comedy. Pretty of face with much magnetism, and ability to "put over" songs, the young woman as a "single" has become already recognized. This week Miss Tracey Is singing at the Greenpoint. Next week she will appear at Hammersteln's, then return to the Percy G. Williams' time. Her pictures are upon the front page of this issue. May 14 1913 The New York Dramatic Mirror The Payton Musical Stock, headed by Ward De Wolfe and Stella Tracey, are rehearsing The Circus Girl, to open at the Newark Theater on Monday. De Wolfe is a youth who will bear watching in his new venture. Harrison Garrett. Frank Shea. Henrietta Lee, Lawrence Knapp. Ethel Russell and Charles P. Morrison are members of the company. June 11 1913 The New York Dramatic Mirror Additional Stock Notes The Payton Musical Stock, at Newark, have ceased, more's the pity, for the company was very popular and drawing large houses. The work of Stella Tracey, Ward De Wolfe. Henrietta Lee. Charles Morrison. Lucille Gardner. Herbert Broske and Harrison Garrett proved the value of these artists and showed their Broadway training. The final bill was Little Johnny Jones, with Ward De Wolfe as Jones; an excellent performance: and Stella Tracey In the role she played with George Cohan. Lucille Gardner looked well and sang pleasingly. Miss Lee and Mr. Morrison were excellent. and Arthur Jarrett gave a good performance. November 14, 1915 The Philadelphia Inquirer ...Stella Tracey & Victor Stone... 9 July 1916 Buffalo Courier Stella Tracey and Carl McBride are seen here for the first time. These two artists have but lately formed a vaudeville partnership. Miss Tracey having played leading roles in many of the Lew Fields productions. Carl McBride is well known in vaudeville and musical comedy. Together they contribute a singing novelty that is distinct and thoroughly entertaining.[picture of Stella] 19 Dec 1916 Brooklyn Daily Eagle Stella Tracey Headliner She Tops an Unusual Bill at Keeneys Heading the bill at Keeneys for the early part of this week is Stella Tracey and Carl McBride popular vaudevillians and musical comedy stars, in a breezy up-to-date offering, with songs and dances. The entire bill for this week is above the ordinary in quality... 8 Jul 1917 Sunday Times (Sydney) Familiar Names Abroad The New York Clipper states that Lillian Rockley, the Australian songstress, is appearing at the Green Mill Garden, New York, and will be the guest of Tracey and McBride at their home at Brighton Beach, New York, on the completion of their Orpheum tour. Stella Tracey was well known in Sydney 13 or 14 years ago as a child artiste on the Rickards' circuit and in J. C Williamson's pantomime. 1917 Variety Stella Tracey and Earl McBride. Songs. 14 Mins.; One. Tracey and McBride compose an excellent team for small time. Miss Tracey displays class for that division and appears to have a good partner in Mr. McBride. The small time will like the girl's little ways in asides and manner of delivering a song also her good looks. The general air around the turn lifts it above most of the small time's two-acts that pay too little attention to dress and detail of appearance. The opening costume of Miss Tracey's is somehow deceptive. It gives her the impression of an elderly woman trying to look young, while she is a pretty young woman. It may be her hair and the shade of the gown. In "Maggie Dooley," Miss Tracey is doing the "hitch" as done by Emma Carus for many years and accepted as belonging to her in the east. Patricola does it in the west. Both Patricola and Miss Carus invented it—Miss Tracey did not, and the bit doesn't belong to the song, although, of course, it fits in snugly. As Miss Tracey now does it, the hitch looks like a weak imitation of Miss Carus'. Their other songs were well put over, with a "vegetable" number getting iaughs and the girl making comedy in the other. Next to closing the first part they landed, and can as well take the next to closing spot 1917 Variety Boston, Nov. 8. Editor VARIETY: In answer to the review of our act, why did it state Miss Carus and Miss Patricola "invented" the "hitch" which I do in ray Irish song? I did it in an Irish song called "O'Reilly," ten years ago. I first did it in a "sailor's hornpipe," taught me by my father, Dan Tracey (of Devlin and Tracey). He took it from no one as it belongs to no one. The originator was the first man who wore a pair of trousers. The first one I ever saw do it in America was Charles Coburn, at Tony Pastor's 15 years ago, in a song called "What Did Your Mother Say?" How can you say anyone invented anything that has always existed? If Miss Carus and Miss Patricola have the east and the west, then I have the north and the south. I am glad you gave me the fighting states. I had to follow Miss Carus on the same bill at the Palace, Chicago, (and I did the "hitch"). I was told if I didn't take it out, it would cause me a lot of trouble with a certain person in the booking office, probably it did, who knows? Warren and Connelly "lifted" our "married number" of which I hold the copyright. No one in your office has noticed this. The smaller performer never gets any credit for originating anything. It's always the "big type" (not time) performer. It's like a dog with a bone, if the big fellow wants it, it's his. Stella Tracey. (Tracey and McBride.) 1917 Variety New York, Dec. 6. Editor VARIETY: In reply to Warren & Connelly's letter last week, would like to state the original composers of my "Married Number" were George Moore, Jos. McCarthy and Mr. Johnson. Mr. Moore suggested the idea. Mr. Moore and I were partners at the time. The number was written through the courtesy of Mr. Will Von Tilzer. Messrs. McCarthy &.Johnson were then connected with this concern, and not with Feist. The Feist office had nothing to do with it. Now Warren & Connelly, if you will look up the two-a-day, I will show you when, where and how you first saw my "Married Number." It was the week of June 10, 1914, at Keith's, Boston, Mass. The bill was composed of: Bert Melrose, Swor and Mack, Ryan and Lee, Col. Diamond, Julia Curtis, Azard Brothers, Vernie Kaufman, Tracey and Stone. You replaced Ryan and Lee. I was singing the song with Victor Stone. You were not singing it then. In your article you claim that you have used it three years. It is two years and five months since "that" week in Boston, and there is from whence it came. You say you are a "perfectly respectable act. We are all respectable, but none of us are "perfect" ^apologies to "Motoring"). This is the third and last time I will notify you not to use my "Married Number" and the Copyright Number in Washington is "Class E. XXC No. 376139. There is no apology forthcoming unless it comes from you. Miss Tracey does not forget. "Heaven hath no greater gift than a good memory." Stella Tracey. Tracey and McBride. February 7, 1924 Variety Tracey And McBride Miniature Review 23 Mini. One and Full Stage (Special) Alhambra Stella Tracey and Carl MeBride have shelved their former two-act in favor of the present turn which includes a pianist who also possesses a pleasing lyric tenor voice. The turn opens in "one" before a divided drop. The pianist sings the introductory song which brings the principals on in comedy costume for "Hello, Hello, Hello," a good comedy song with topical extra verses. The pair are eating bread and bananas during the song, which details the misadventures of a couple of hambos. The pianist tenors a ballad effectively while they change evening attire to entrance rull stage enveloped by a gold cyclorama for "Gee. Whiz, We're Glad We're Free," a divorce song with some good cross-fire quarreling between verses. This is a hold over from the former act. A solo of "Dan McGrew" by Tracey followed. The service lines have been well set to music and only slightly changed to meet the metre. Her specialty follows a prima donna travesty well done and getting plenty of laughs with a mock ballad. For a finish both revert to extreme comedy costumes again. Tracey as a French gendarmes with a foot long moustache gets laughs on his entrance. A double song "On the Boulevard," followed by a comedy dance, completed a corking good turn for any of the bills. Opening after intermission at this house they, scored strongly through delivery and an ambitious production. October 27, 1925 The Philadelphia Inquirer ...The programme also included Stella Tracey and Jay Elwood in an oddity called "Bits of Musical Shows,' in which singing numbers and dances prevailed;... December 24, 1926 Star-Gazette (Elmira NY) Stella Tracey and Jay Elwood The Musical Comedy Stars in "Bits of Broadway" January 15, 1928 The Pittsburgh Press Stella Tracey and Jay Elwood are a new vaudeville combination January 1, 1928 The Pittsburgh Press New Vaudeville Team. Stella Tracey and Jay Elwood are a new vaudeville combination. Both Miss Tracey and Mr. Elwood are well known to the theater. However, they acquired their fame in musical comedy. For a time it seemed that Miss Tracey was the attractive ingenue in almost every Broadway I hit and that Mr. Elwood was the light comedian of an equal number. Their association in vaudeville is therefore, of considerable importance, and for this association they have devised an assortment of songs and dances and comedy, which they labelled "Bits of Broadway." They will be a feature Square this week. November 29, 1941 The Billboard Philadelphia:...Stella Tracey staging comeback with the Gay Nineties revue at Minstrel Tavern. December 27, 1948 The Philadelphia Inquirer What you don't have to sacrifice to be on TV! WPTZ has been looking for a one-man piano show. Turned up a fellow named Carl McBride, who seemed to fit the piano playing ;ole perfectly. But he had two drawbacks: (1) a heavy moustache and (2) a bushy jungle type hair-do. Now McBride has neither moustache nor bushy hairdo But he is on TV. Oct. 9, 1949 The Philadelphia Inquirer Magazine A Tear for Keith's Past Glory Stella Tracey noticed the worn "stage door" sign on the partly demolished Keith's Theater building on Chestnut st. An impulse made her wade through the rubble, open the door and go in. When she came out again, she was crying a little. "Is something the matter, dear?" asked a woman passerby. "What? Oh, no, I've just seen some ghosts," murmured Miss Tracey. She had reason for emotion. As a headliner in vaudeville, she had amused many an audience at Keith's. Now 63 and a widow, Stella Tracey is behind a counter as the Philadelphia representative for a cosmetics firm. When not selling, she teaches dramatics and public speaking in her home at 4402 Pine st. And when not teaching, she stages (free of charge) amateur theatricals for schools and other organizations. "Born in a trunk," in Melbourne, Australia, where her father, Dan Tracey, Irish-American minstrel, was on tour, Stella Tracey knew and worked with theatre "greats" for nearly half a century. Perhaps her best-known roles were as Goldie Gates, star of George M. Cohan's Little Johnnie Jones, and as the "miniature prima donna" (she's five feet tall, weighed 83 pounds then) in Soul Kiss in 1908. "I made a lot of money," she said, "but I spent a lot too. My highest salary was $750 a week, and steak sold for ten cents a pound then." She has one son, Carl McBride, Jr., a pianist and singer.

Dan Tracey (1858-1926)

Dan Tracey was born about 1858 in Montreal Canada. An Irish-Canadian he was known as one of the finest exponents of Irish characterisations and witticisms. He was also a specialist clog dancer. He is best remembered for his contributions to the theatre in Australia and is the subject of a monograph in the Australian Variety Theatre Archive.

His first press clippings start in 1876 when he was 18 years of age, where he is billed as an Irish singer, clog dancer and comedian. In 1877, he teamed up with Dick Devlin to form ‘Devlin and Tracey’. Dick Devlin seems to be more adapt at promotions and perhaps this is where Dan Tracey learned stage management. The team broke up in 1880, when Devlin decided to tour Europe. Dan Tracey performed alone and with other partners including Will Goldsmith, William McMahon. In 1882, when Devlin returned from Europe, they again teamed up, breaking up again in 1884.

He is reported to have spent time as a minstrel in San Francisco where he might have met his wife Mary Letita Bray.

He first came to Australia with Billy Emerson in 1885. In 1887, he undertook an engagement with the newly formed Cogill Brothers company, one of the earliest seasons being undertaken at the Gaiety Theatre, Sydney. As one of the feature artists Tracey presented his specialty dance act and introduced a new character impersonation "The Irish Gentleman" in sketches with Fanny Saroni, Charles Cogill and George A. Jones. He also appeared in numerous farces, including Muldoon's Picnic and Smoked Out, and worked briefly in a partnership with Frank Stevens, the pair portraying two sons of Erin's Green Isle and introducing songs like "Four-Leaved Shamrock"

In late 1888, he started stage management, and later headed a company with Steve Adson, another specialist Irish comedian and dancer. By 1892, the team had split up and he was running theatre halls in Sydney and Melbourne. In 1893, he spent the summer touring again in the USA. In 1894, he ran into financial difficulties and was forced to close his variety company at the Theatre Royal, Sydney. Traceys Minstrel Company was appearing in Sydney in 1895. In 1896, his daughter Stella took to the stage. He also was promoted himself in a step-dancing contest. Also in 1896, he returned to performing in the USA.

The family emigrated to the USA about 1900, and Dan Tracey appear on a bill in Philadelphia in 1902.

He died on the 9 February 1926 in Brooklyn New York. He left a widow Mary Letita Bray Tracey had one child Stella Tracey.

Ref:

Dan Tracey, The Original Irish Nightingale New Song Book c.1891

Gae Anderson (2009) Tivoli King: The Life of Harry Rickards Vaudeville Showman. Allambie Press

Australian Variety Theatre Archive http://ozvta.com/entrepreneurs-s-z/

Dan Treacy - Press Clippings

Sep 23, 1927 The Brooklyn Daily Eagle

...Back In the 70s in Mexico. Mrs McBride's father, then a member of the musical comedy team of Mclntyre and Tracy before it was Mclntyre and Heath, saved Mrlntyres life when a desperado attempted to shoot him during a hotel row. Mrlntyre is Judge Martins father-in-law...[Jim McIntyre of McIntyre and Heath formed in Texas in 1874 and arrived and brought Rag Time to New York in 1879, Georgia Minstrels – Variety 1919]

New York Clipper, 29 July 1876

Cincinnati O...Heuck's Hall...new people...Dan Tracey, Irish comedian...

New York Clipper, 5 August 1876

Detroit Mich...Moeart Hall...Dan Tracy, an excellent Irish comedian...

New York Clipper, 5 August 1876

Cincinnati...Heuck's Hall...Dan Tracy, in Irish songs and clog dance...

New York Clipper, 3 February 1877

At Columbia Opera-House...Dan Tracey in his Dutch songs-and-dances...

New York Clipper 17 March 1877

Olympic Theatre...March 8...Dan Tracey gave Irish songs-and-dances...

New York Clipper, 29 December 1877

The Academy of Music Detroit, Mich...Dick Devlin and Dan Tracy...

New York Clipper, 9 March 1878

...and Devlin and Tracy , who are a very original and excellent Irish couple , were the additions at the Coliseum...and Devlin and Tracy, who open in New York...

New York Clipper, 23 November 1878

Devlin and Tracy In a musical sketch called Dan and Terry’s Parting made a favorable Impression , their singing and dancing being commendable ;

New York Clipper, 14 May 1881

National Theatre, Philadelphia...Dan Tracy (late bf Devlin and Tracy) and Will Goldsmith.

New York Clipper, 30 April 1881

{NY?] City Summary...Harry Miner's Theatre...Dan Tracy and Will Goldsmith in eccentric Irish songs-and-dances...

New York Clipper, 5 August 1882

[NY] Eight Avenue House...Dan Tracy and William McMahon, Irish character vocalists and dancers...

New York Clipper, 9 September 1882

Devlin and Tracy are again together, after a separation of upwards of two years, during which time Devlin has been playing single-handed in the variety theatres of Europe.

New York Clipper, 9 December 1882

New York Clipper, 20 January 1883

"The Convict" was produced at the Criterion Theatre Chicago, Ill Jan 15. In the Olio appeared Dick Devlin and Dan Tracey...

New York Clipper, 13 September 1884

Cloverdale .- Kate Caatleton's "All at Sea" Co were to bave opened their tour here Sept. 8, going to Ukiah 9, 10 . and so on over the California Circuit- The people: Esther Williams, Belle Alhens, Anne Athena, Will H . Bray, Dan Tracy, Ralph Wray, J.R. Bronson; Owen Dale stage manager and Louis Jacobson musical-director.

New York Clipper 6 December 1884

Dick Devlin is doing the light comedy with C.A. Gardiner's Dramatic Company. He sends his regards to his former partner Dan Tracey.

New York Clipper, 23 July 1887

The Cogill Bros,' Minstrel and Burlesque Co. commenced their eleventh week June 11 at the Gaiety Theatre Sydney Aus. The rooter of the troupe for that week was...Dan Tracey...

New York Clipper, 7 January 1888

John F. Fields of Fields and Hanson sends us this list of American performers now in Australia...Dan Tracy...

New York Clipper, 1 Dec 1888 and 5 January 1889

Stembemville...At the London...Dan Tracy (stage manager). Mr. Tracy benefits 3, when he retires from the stage management...

9 December 1890 Kiama Independent, and Shoalhaven Advertiser (NSW)

Tracey & Adson's Comedy And Specialty Co.

The above company appeared last night at the Oddfellows' Hall to a large and appreciative audience. The company is headed by Messrs. Dan Tracey and Steve Adson, who have a world-wide reputation as character comedians and specialty artists, and who introduced some really clever songs with picturesque and eccentric dance with great success. Miss Blanche Montagu, who possesses a sweet soprano voice, was heard to advantage in some very pretty waltz songs and ballads, to each of which she received an encore. An acquisition to the Company is Mr. Arthur Gordon, a young gentlemen of considerable power a mimic and descriptive singer. The programme presented was a good one, and the Company appear again tonight, when they should have a good house.

New York Clipper, 15 October 1892

...Dan Tracey, formerly of the well known American team, Devlin and Tracey , is running a hall at Sydney and another at Melbourne, and is doing nicely at both...

New York Clipper, 29 July 1893

Peoples Theatre, Ashtabula Harbour O.:...Dan Tracy...

New York Clipper, 19 August 1893

At the Peoples Theatre, Ashtabula Harbour, O.:...Dan Tracey...

16 March 1894 Advertiser (Adelaide, SA)

Dan Tracey's Variety Company. The Members Refuse To Show. Alleged Arrears In Salaries.

Sydney, March 15. The Theatre Royal, where Dan Tracey's Variety Company has for some time been running, has been closed owing, it is alleged. to trouble between the management and the members of the company with regard to arrears of pay. A fair house paid for admission last night, but after waiting for a time it was announced that there was to be no show. A rush was at once made for the pay-boxes, and a good deal of disorder prevailed, until a body of police arrived and cleared out the rowdy element. Dan Tracey was only a weekly tenant of the theatre.

7 October 1895 Evening News (Sydney, NSW)

Traceys Minstrel Company.

Mr. Dan Tracey's Minstrel Company gave a very successful entertainment in the Protestant Hall on Saturday night, the audience being a very large one, and the programme of excellent character. The corners were - Messrs. Edwin Shapp and Arthur Vial, tambos; Messrs. Edwards and J. Edmundson, bones; while Mr. Wally Edwards was interlocutor. Miss Flo Murray was en cored for the serio-comic song 'How They Change.' Miss Elfie Morella was loudly applauded for 'The Light of Love,' and Miss Mabel Andrews sang the serio-comic song 'Country Maid.' 'Killarney' was nicely sung by Miss Marie Turner. A pretty song called 'Kitty Little' was sung by Miss V. Bishop. Little Stella, only 5 years old, and who appeared for the first time, established herself as a favorite. Mr. Wally Edwards sang 'Masquerade Ball' in excellent style, and Mr. Alfred Thornton contributed 'The Old Brigade.' Messrs. Edwin Sliipp, J. Edmonds, and T. Ed wards were successful in comics. The first part concluded with a dance by Dan Tracey. Miss Flo Murray sang 'Walker,'' and Miss Mabel Andrews 'Tell the Tale Nicely.' Mr. J. Edmonds gave a capital burlesque, 'Rehearsing the Pantomime,' and Master Fred. Leslie did a funny turn. 'They Wouldn't do that in London,' by Miss Violet Bishop, and Miss Murray's tambourine dance, were much applauded. The evening's entertainment concluded with 'Home Comforts,' a very laugh able farce.

27 February 1896 Otago Witness

Australian Stage Gossip...Stella Tracey, a six-year-old daughter of the well-known dancer Dan Tracey, does a clever song-and-dance turn in "Robinson Crusoe" at Sydney Her Majesty's...

24 Mar 1896 The Telegraph (Brisbane, Qld)

Gaiety Theatre.

At the Gaiety Theatre to-night a step-dancing contest will take place between Mr. Dan Tracey, the well known professional performer, and Mr. J. Gentner, a Brisbane prize stop dancer. The contest to-night is for a purse and the Championship of Queensland. Further particulars of this interesting event are published elsewhere.

New York Clipper, 2 May 1896

Missouri St. Louis...Murphy announces the opening engagement of his star serialist, Dan Tracy, April 26, at Montesano Park, a Summer resort by the river near here...

16 Jan 1897 The Telegraph (Brisbane, Qld)

Gaiety Theatre Novelties. Mr. Alf Lawton's company, which has drawn very fair audiences to the Gaiety Theatre this week, will to-night be further strengthened by Mr. Dan Tracey, Irish comedian und dancer. The great attraction will, however, be the appearance of Miss Nellie Ridgway on the wire rope. This lady has already proved in Brisbane that she is incomparable as a wire walker and dancer

New York Clipper, 9 September 1899

Howard And St. Clair write from Sydney Aus...Harry Cogill is in West Australia with his vaudeville company. We met a few old performers who have been here a great many years, viz ., Alf Lawton, who came out here with Billy Emerson ; Dan Tracey, of Devlin and Tracey, and old Horace Rent, who is going to have a benefit at the Tivoli Theatre. We are both enjoying the best or health, and hope this will find all at home the same. Everyone joins us in best wishes to our old friend THE CLIPPER.

13 Jun 1901 Punch (Melbourne, Vic)

The Playgoer.

Australian playgoers win remember the clever little child actress and duodecimo edition of a specialty performer, Stella Tracey. Stella is the daughter of the well-known Dan Tracey, and was born in Carlton. She made her mark here and then went to America. At latest dates she vas appealing at Tony Pastor's Theatre, New York, and was creating a furore. Her present salary is £15 a week, and she is now only fourteen years old. N.T.B., as the boys say, for a little Australian. [pictures of Stella]

1902 Philadelphia Enquirer

14 Oct 1903 Referee (Sydney, NSW)

General Gossip...Miss Ida Chester, in a lengthy letter from New York, says that Mr. Harry Salmon and herself have done extremely well since they landed In America twelve months ago, and continues : — 'We have met quite a few Australians over here, and also American friends who have been over to our side. Stella Tracey is making a name for herself with the 'Chinese Honeymoon' Company. Tom Armand is also a hit here with his. dancing. George Alexander and his wife (an Australian girl) have just left N.Y. with a burlesque company. George H. Wood and wife (Miriam Ainsworth) are hero In Now York. In fact, there arc quite a few Australians here, and most all doing well. Old Dan Tracey can be seen any day round the Actors' Union with a smile on his face, always pleased to meet a friend from over the water. Things are nice and easy with him in America. It is a wonderful place, and everything Is very good, but still at times one thinks of good old Australia, and I must say there is no place like home, sweet home. Mr. Salmon and myself intend going to London before re turning to Australia. I should like you to kindly remember Mr. Salmon and myself to all Australian friends.'.'

FAMILY HISTORY

NOTE: This is the best match found for Canada

Daniel Tracey d. 1837 St. Columban

Daniel Tracey died 28/30 Mar 1838 spouse Frances Manning 47 years

Francis Mangan died? 11 Feb 1839 spouse Daniel Tracey

Mary Tracey! & Thomas Brophy

Helen Brophy b. 14 Feb 1837 d. 27 Feb 1837 St. Columban

Margaret Brophy born? 28 Feb 1843 St. Columban

Lawrence Brophy b. 23 Feb 1852 St. Columban

Bridget Brophy born? 27 Feb 1854 St. Columban

Mary Brophy born? 10 Sep 1855 St. Columban

Catherine Brophy born? 28 Apr 1857 St. Columban

Thomas Brophy died 4/6 Jan 1859 spouse Mary Tracey 65 years St. Columban

Martin Tracey! & Elinor McNally

John Tracey! b. 3/4 Oct 1838 St. Columban

Ann Tracey b. 7 July 1845 St. Columban

Martin Tracey b. 10 July 1847 St. Columban

Elizabeth Tracey b. 2 May 1849 St. Columban

Martin Tracey! & Elizabeth McNulty

Phobe Tracey! b. 11/12 Feb 1842 St. Columban

Martin Tracey & Elizabeth McKana

William Tracey b. 2/3 Dec 1843 St. Columban

Patrick Tracey buried 9/10 June 1851, 2.5 mo St. Columban

John Tracey & Jane Sinnot

Daniel Tracey b. 15 Sept 1850 St. Columban

Michael Tracey (s. of Daniel Tracey & Frances Manning/Maghning? married Mary McCarthy (d. of James McCarthy & Margaret Molloy) 7 November 1843 St. Columban

Michael Tracey & Mary McCarthy

Daniel Tracey b. 27/28 July 1844 died 25 Sept 1844 St. Columban

John Tracey b. 17/18 July 1845 St. Columban

James Tracey b. 4/5 Mar 1847 St. Columban

Ellen Tracey b. 6 Dec 1848 St. Columban

Elizabeth Tracey b. 22/23 May 1851 St. Columban [Elizabeth Tracey, a marié Joseph Trudeau. Un de leurs enfants, Marguerite Trudeau a marié Edouard Larin, et elle est ma grand-mère.]

Martin Tracey b. 19 May 1854 St. Columban

Michael Daniel Tracey! b. 26 July 1856 St. Columban

Margaret Tracey b. 7 June 1858 St. Columban

Patrick Tracey b. 15/16 Mar 1860 died 4/6 Apr 1860 19 days St. Columban

Michael Tracey b. 24/25 Apr 1862 St. Columban

Ref:

St. Columban-Irish http://www.stcolumban-irish.com/

See also:

Evelyn Dreiling - Historical Fact/Fiction based on this family

A Rebellious Spirit: Daniel Tracey (2013)

From Colony to Country: Michael Tracey (2014)

Canada's Coming of Age: John and Ellen Tracey (2015)

https://www.smashwords.com/books/byseries/12781

1851 Census - District 5, St. Colomban, Deux-Montagnes, Canada East (Quebec)

40 Micheal Tracey, farmer, b. Ireland, Roman Catholic, 35, male

41 John Tracey, b. Canada, Roman Catholic, 6, male

42. James tracey b. Canada, Roman Catholic, 4, male

43. Mary McCarthy, b. Ireland, Roman Catholic, 30, female

44 Ellen Tracey, b. Canada, Roman Catholic, 3, female

45 Eliza Tracey, b. Canada, Roman Catholic, 1, female

48 Frances? Tracey, b. Canada, Roman Catholic, 14, female

1851 Agricultural Census - District 5, St. Colomban, Deux-Montagnes, Canada East (Quebec)

John Tracy, 100 acres holding, 50 a cultivation, 6 a crops, 44 a pasture, - orchards, 50 wood

1851 Agricultural Census - District 5, St. Colomban, Deux-Montagnes, Canada East (Quebec)

Michael Tracy, 45 acres holding, 20 a cultivation, 8 a crops, 12 a pasture, - orchards, 25 wood

1861 Census - St. Colomban, Deux-Montagnes, Canada East (Quebec)

24 Micheal Tracy, farmer, b. Ireland, RC, 48, log house

25 Mary McCarthy, farmer, b. Ireland, RC, 40,

26 John Tracy Laboer, b. Lower Canada, RC, 15,

27 James Tracey, Laboer, b. LC, RC, 40, 13,

28 Ellen Tracey, Laboer, b. LC, RC, 11,

29 Elizabeth Tracey, Laboer, b. LC, RC, 9,

30 Marten Tracey, Laboer, b. LC, RC, 6,

31 Daniel Tracey, Laboer, b. LC, RC, 4,

32 Margaret Tracey, Laboer, b. LC, RC, 3,

1871 Census - 302 St. Antoine Ward, Montreal West

Michael Tracey, 50, b. Ireland, RC, Irish, gardiner, widowed

John Tracey, 23, b. C, RC Irish, labourer

Lizzie Tracey, 17, b. C, RC Irish

Ellen Tracey, 23, b. C, RC Irish,

Martin Tracey, 16, b. C, RC Irish, Clerk

Daniel Tracey, 7, b. C, RC Irish, Clerk

Michael Tracey, 4, b. C, RC Irish,

James Tracey, 22, b. C, RC Irish, Clerk, married July, [Note: J M Fenes Sunnin?]

Christina Tracey, 23, b. C, RC Irish,

1880 Census - 93 Chrystie Street, New York, New York

Daniel Tracy border Male 22 Canada, parents born Canada, actor

1888, 09454,,Tracey,Stella Louise, Daniel, Bray Mary, Carlton, Victoria Australia

22 Aug 1904 The World

War Keeps Letter From Actress [with picture]

Stella Tracey, of “The Royal Chef,” Has Not Heard from Brother, with Japanese Before Port Arthur, Since May 3

Miss Stella Tracey, who comes to the Lyric Theatre on Sept 1 with "The Royal Chef." is hoping that the siege of Port Arthur may soon be raised. Miss Tracey's brother, Leonard Tracey, is at the present moment with the Japanese troops before Port Arthur. The censorship maintained over letters sent from the Orient is so rigid that Miss Tracey has heard nothing of her relative since May 1. Miss Tracey is a niece of Rear-Admiral S. N. Tracey, retired, U. S. N., and her brother was for two years In the Naval Academy at Annapolis, when he was "bilged" for a hazing scrape. Through the Influence of his uncle, he secured a position with Sir Thomas Lipton's establishment at Tokio, and, the military spirit remaining rampant in him, he volunteered for active service at the beginning of the Japanese-Russian war. When Miss Tracey heard from him he was with the army of occupation advancing toward Port Arthur.

In "The Royal Chef" Miss Tracey is Kittie 0’Reilly, an Irish maid.

1905 Census - 79 West 92nd St, Manhattan, New York

Daniel Tracy Head Male 52y Canada, retired, 30 years US, cit

Lotta Tracy Wife Female 40y United States, cit

Stitta Tracy Daughter Female 17y United States, cit

Joseph Allen Boarder Male 32y United States, Actor, cit

1910 Census - 79 West 92nd Street, Manhattan Ward 12, New York

Daniel Tracey Head Male 50 Canada, parents born Canada, Actor dramatic, emigrated 1861 Alien

Letty Tracey Wife Female 45 Nevada, married 20 years, 1 child 1 alive, father born Ireland mother born Nevada, Dresser Theatre

Stella Tracey Daughter Female 22 Australia, Actress dramatic, emigrated 1900

July 24, 1915 The Billboard

McBride-Tracey Nuptials

Carl McBride, of McBride and Cavanaugh, and Stella Tracey, singing comedienne, were married In Brooklyn on July 7.

16 September 1916 The Billboard

Vaudeville Notes

Stella Tracey (Mrs. Carl McBride) presented her husband with a fine miniature duplicate of himself, weighing 5 pounds, on August 9. It Is punned to christen the lad Carl Daniel Dionysius Patrick Aloylsus Tracey McBride. He should be able to get along with that title it be has nothing else to carry. Carl, Sr., says: "The boy is all right; he baa a big reputation already, but his mother doesn't know where he got It and I'll never tell her." The team of Stella Tracey and Curl McBride are booked solid with their specialty until February, 1917, At present they are at home with Mr. and Mrs. Dan Tracey, the parents of Mrs. McBride, at Mapleton Park, Brooklyn, N. Y.

1920 Census - 1949 63rd Street, Brooklyn, Kings, New York

Daniel Tracy Head Male 68 Canada, Un date of emigration, Un, parents born Ireland

Mary Tracy Wife Female 51 California, father born Ireland mother born England

May S S Mcbride Daughter Female 36 Australia, father born Ireland mother born California, Un date of emigration, na, professional theatrical

Carl O Mcbride Son-in-law Male 31 Iowa, professional theatrical

Carl T Mcbride Jr. Grandson Male 3 New York

Daniel Tracey died 9 Feb 1926 Brooklyn Kings New York, age 80, b. 1846, (s. of James Tracey & Margaret), Spouse: Mary Bray Tracey

10 Feb Dec 1926 Brooklyn Daily Eagle

Tracy - On Feb 9, 1926, at his residence 1949 63rd st. Brooklyn, Daniel Tracey (retired actor) beloved husband of Mary A Bray Tracey, and father of Mrs. Carl McBride. Funeral from In Memoriam Building, Rogers ave and Montgomery St. on Friday Feb 12 at 2 p.m. Interment at Calvary Cemetery. Auto cortege.

June 25, 1927 The Palm Beach Post

The Circuit Court, Palm Beach County, Florida, In Chancery.

Carl McBride. Complainant, Vs. Stella Tracey McBride, Defendant.

Bill For Divorce.- Case No. It appearing by affidavit appended to the bill filed in the above stated came that Stella Tracey McBride, the Defendant therein named, as a non-resident of the State of Florida, and her Inst known place of residence' was No, 1010 Sixty-third St., Brooklyn, N. Y. that there is no person In the State of Florida the service of a subpoena upon whom would bind such Defendant; and that she Is over the age of twenty-one years; it is therefore ordered that nonresident Defendant be and she is hereby required to oppenr to the Bill of Complainant filed in such cause on or before Monday, the 4th day of July, A. n., j.'-i, oiiiriwiM; i lie nnciH i lulls 01 saint, bill will be taken as confessed bv said Defendant. It is further ordered thnt this order lie published once n week for four consecutive weeks in The Palm Beach Post, n newspaper published in said County and State. This May 2th. 1027. ' FRED E. FENNO. Clerk, Circuit Court. By MERLE P. JOHNSTON. ' (Circuit Court S-al) . .Deputy Clerk. A. C. FORD1IAM. Solicitor for Complainant.

July 31, 1928 Nassau Daily Review

Malverne Woman Presses Charge $250,000 Suit

Blonde and petit, Mrs. Stella Tracy McBride. of Nassau avenue, Malverne, vaudeville entertainer, win press her $250,000 suit charging criminal conversation against Mrs. Catherine Lehlng of West Palm Beach, Fla., before Edward J. Bryne, in the Brooklyn supreme court tomorrow.

"She took my husband away," asserts the blonde spot-light artist, through her attorney, Emanuel Levy of Lynbrook.

Follow Her Mate

The case will be argued with Mrs, Lehing represented by former Judge Edgar P. Hasleton who was Mrs. Ruth Snyder's attorney. Mrs. McBride is at present on a tour of the Pacific coast with the Pantages circuit.

According to the Malverne woman's attorney, Mrs. McBride followed her husband. Carl, a booking agent of Manhattan, and Mrs. Lehing on a lengthy trip. She is said to have disguised herself as an old woman and to have been within hearing distance of the couple for several days without their realizing her Identity.

Attorney Levy said Mrs. Lehing was arrested and detained at the Jamaica police station on September 10, 1927 She was later released In $2,500 bail. The suit for damages brought by Mrs McBride has been fought with motions since that time, and at present.

It was learned, Mrs. Lehing Is making a motion for her arrest to be vacated.

Sep 23, 1927 The Brooklyn Daily Eagle

Found McBride with Another, Says Actress-Wife in Tears

The vaudeville song-and-dance team of McBride and Tracy played a heavier role in Judge Martin's part of County Court today when Carl McBride of West Palm Beach. Fla., was arraigned on an Indictment charging mm with abandoning his wife and stage partner, Mrs. Stella Tracy Mc Bride, and their 6-ycar-old son, Carl

Back In the 70s in Mexico. Mrs McBride's father, then a member of the musical comedy team of Mclntyre and Tracy before it was Mclntyre and Heath, saved Mrlntyres life when a desperado attempted to shoot him during a hotel row. Mrlntyre is Judge Martins father-in-law.

"I loved him when I married him 13 yesrs ago and I scraped and saved to put us on Easy street,” said Mrs McBride between tears "And then In December - Just two days alter Christmas in 1925 - he dcsrted me and I later found him living with another woman In Florida.''

Little Carl pulled a purple handkerchief from the breast pocket of his double-breasted blue suit and handed It to his mother to dry her eyes.

"Have you sent your wife any money?" Judge Martin asked McBride.

"Certainly." replied McBride. "I sent her three checks totaling $100 one for her to come down to Florida "

"She could nt very well live on $500 for two years." declared the Judge.

"No. but she makes more than I do Judge." answered McBride.

Eagar F. Hazleton, counse1 for McBride. said today no indictment should have been returned against his client because even If he did leave his family there was no chance that they would become apublic charge. The case will be tried Monday.

Mrs McBride gave her address as 1949 63d St.

Aug 1, 1928 The Brooklyn Daily Eagle

Reduces Bail Bond of Actress' Rival

Both Women Lose Point in McBride Alienation Suit

The $100,000 alienation suit brought by Stella Macey McBride, movie actress, against Kathryn Lehing, who was identified with the business end of movie production, tapered down a bit when Justice Byrne In Supreme Court today reduced to $1,000 the ball bond on which Kathryn is to remain "within the Jurisdiction." Both women lost a point, for Kathryn had asked that the bail bond be eliminated entirely and the order of arrest vacated, while Stella asked that it be left at $2,500, or increased. The complaint charges that Kathryn stole the affections of Stella's husband, Carl McBride, and won his love by "showering gifts and affection" on him. Carl and Kathryn became acquainted through their association in Florida real estate ventures, where Kathryn unloaded practically all her fortune, according to her petition to Justice Byrne, and even had to pawn her jewels to provide herself with square meals. She said there was no foundation for the actress' suit and that her demand for $100,000 damages was a publicity stunt. Stella denied it and pointed to her dismantled home to show how aggrieved she was. Now If Kathryn wants to roam beyond the county limits, and she says she must travel a good deal in her business, it will cost her only $1,000.

October 24, 1928 The Brooklyn Daily Eagle

Tracy And Mcbride May Settle Suit

Carl McBride, once the dance part of the song and dance team of Tracy and McBride, has until tomorrow to decide whether he will propose some arrangement to take care of his 12-year-old son, Carl Jr., or whether he will go on in the County Court with trial on a charge of abandonment.

Yesterday, when the trial began before County Judge Taylor, Stella Tracy McBride, formerly the singing half of the team, testified that her partner deserted the boy two days after Christmas, 1925, to go and live with an unnamed wealthy society woman in Florida. She also testified that with the exception of about $400 he had not supported either herself or the son since then.

It is understood that If McBride makes some suitable suggestion for support the charge against him will be either reduced or dismissed. Assistant District Attorney William Geoghan is in charge of the prosecution.

1930 Census - 1949 63rd Street, Brooklyn (Districts 1251-1500), Kings, New York

Carl Mc Bride Head Male 38 Iowa, parents born Iowa, producer theatrical, 25 years when married

Stella T Mc Bride Wife Female 37 Australia, father born Canada mother born California, 24 years when married

Carl Mc Bride Jr. Son Male 13 New York

Mary L Tracy Mother-in-law Female 62 California, widowed, father born England mother born Northern Ireland,

1940 Census - 2925 West Girard Avenue, Ward 29, Philadelphia, Philadelphia City, Pennsylvania

Stella Mcbride Head Female 42 Australia, widowed, typist clerk W.P.A. Research survey

Carl Mcbride Son Male 23 New York, musician band

Mary Tracey Mother Female 76 California

William O'Neill Lodger Male 28 Pennsylvania, Enumator W.P.A. auto project

Joseph Fitzpatrick Lodger Male 29 Pennsylvania, printer printing company

August 7, 1960 The Philadelphia Inquirer

Stella McBride, Ex-Actress, Dies

Mrs. Stella Tracy McBride, former Broadway musical comedy star, died Friday in Jefferson Hospital. She was 72.

Mrs. McBride who lived at 3922 Chestnut st had been a hat buyer for Gimbels for the past 12 years.

Under the name of Stella Tracey, she was a leading lady and star of George M. Cohan's "Little Jennie Jones" [Little Johnny Jones] and other Broadway hits. Mrs. McBride also starred as Joe Howard's leading lady when he popularised the song "I wonder who's kissing her now”.

Her only survivor is a son, Carl McBride, of Miami Beach, Fla.

Solemn Requiem Mass will be sung at 10 A. M. Tuesday at St. James' Church, .TRth and Chestnut sts Burial will be in Holy Cross cemetery.

Last update: 14 March 2018