Ira Frederick Aldridge, of Baltimore, was a pupil of the great artist
Edmund Kean. Aldridge appeared as Othello and other characters, and
received a decoration from the Emperor of Russia.
Phillis Wheatley, the first woman white or black to attain literary
distinction in this country. While a child she began to write verses,
and received the endorsement of the most distinguished men of her time,
including General Washington.
Paul Laurence Dunbar, a noted poet born in Dayton, Ohio. He showed
poetic ability while at school, and soon became known as a writer of
ability.
All the foregoing actors and poets have passed away, but there are many
treading and to tread in their footsteps. Success and fame must come to
them by utilizing their gifts to the best advantage.
We give you merely the edge of the field to be filled by you or some one
you know and hope to see attain it. It is a thickly sown field, and if
you cultivate it, you will be rewarded with an astonishing harvest.