David C. Montgomery (March 21, 1870- April 20, 1917) was a long-time stage partner of Fred Stone and performed as the Tin Woodman in the 1902 stage production of The Wizard of Oz opposite Stone's Scarecrow. The Tin Woodman played a piccolo during the show.
Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Montgomery became a significant figure in the world of entertainment during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Montgomery's career in show business began in the 1880s when he joined a traveling theater company at a young age. He gained valuable experience as a performer, working in various roles and learning the ropes of the entertainment industry. As vaudeville gained popularity in the late 1800s, Montgomery found his niche as a talented actor and skilled playwright in this emerging form of variety entertainment.
In the early 1900s, David C. Montgomery formed a highly successful partnership with Fred Stone, another renowned vaudeville actor. Together, they became a dynamic duo known for their comic chemistry and delightful performances. Montgomery's exceptional writing skills and Stone's comedic talent complemented each other perfectly, leading to a string of successful musical comedies that captivated audiences across the United States.
One of their most significant collaborations was the musical "The Wizard of Oz," based on L. Frank Baum's beloved novel. Premiering in 1902, Montgomery co-wrote the script, and Fred Stone played the iconic role of the Scarecrow. The production was a smash hit and played a significant role in both actors' careers. It also marked the beginning of a lifelong friendship and working relationship between Montgomery and Stone.
In 1904, the duo scored another major success with "The Red Mill," which showcased Montgomery's writing talent and further solidified their status as stars of vaudeville theatre. The musical was well-received and became a classic of its time.
Beyond his work with Fred Stone, David C. Montgomery had a successful solo career as well. He wrote, produced, and acted in various other vaudeville shows, contributing to the growth and popularity of the genre. Montgomery's plays often featured humorous and whimsical themes, appealing to audiences seeking light-hearted entertainment.
As the vaudeville era began to wane in the 1920s with the rise of other forms of entertainment, Montgomery adapted to the changing times. He continued to contribute to the performing arts and made several appearances in silent films, showcasing his versatility as an entertainer.
David C. Montgomery was also involved in charitable work, supporting various causes and giving back to the community. He was admired not only for his talents but also for his generosity and commitment to making a positive impact on society.
At one point he was engaged to marry Anna Fitzhugh (stage name of Anna Fitziu) as noted by a South Bend Indiana newspaper for May 22, 1914 with the headlong “Opera Singer will Marry the Tin Man”. It is unclear why they broke off their engagement but she had played a Munchkin given top billing in the printed program named Tommie Top.
It is uncertain if he was referring to her in particular when recounting an incident with a couple of chorus girls that was quoted in a 1903 edition of The Evening World paper:
“I had a little of the conceit taken out of me the other night, and it was done by a chorus girl. I was wearing my usual suit of tin armor, and as I just left the stage I passed a group of girls who were chattering like parrots. Just as I reached the door of my dressing room I heard one of the girls use my name. Then the other girl without a trace of malice remarked: he is the most finest canned lobster I ever encountered”.
David C. Montgomery's life was cut short when he passed away unexpectedly at the age of 47. Despite his relatively short life, his contributions to vaudeville and musical theatre left a lasting legacy. He played a pivotal role in shaping the early days of American entertainment, and his works continue to be remembered and appreciated by theatre enthusiasts and historians alike.
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