The novel was adapted to a stage play by Paul Kester in 1901, starring popular actress Julia Marlowe in the role of Princess Mary and Bruce McRae as Charles Brandon. Major was deeply involved in the writing of the play—we have several of his hand-edited drafts in the archives.
Major collected all kinds of advertisements for the play, most of which focused on Julia Marlowe, posed regally as Princess Mary.
The advertising line for both the novel and the play seemed to be “A love story as delicious as the great passion itself.”
One of the more bizarre things hidden in the archives was Major’s invitation to Mark Twain’s 70th birthday party on December 5th, 1905. This was accompanied by the seating chart for the party, a souvenir booklet, and a copy of the menu at Delmonico’s.
All images courtesy of the Charles and Alice Shaw Major Papers from the Purdue E-Archives.
chivalry in shelbyville 