Burton, William E. (William Evans), 1802-1860

Variant names
Dates:
Birth 1802-09-24
Death 1860-02-10

Biographical notes:

Epithet: actor and dramatist

British Library Archives and Manuscripts Catalogue : Person : Description : ark:/81055/vdc_100000000750.0x00036d

William E. Burton was born in London, where his father was a printer; he was interested in writing, publishing, and acting. In 1834 he moved to Philadelphia, where he founded and edited A Gentlemen's Magazine, a successful literary miscellany. Quarrels with co-editor Edgar Allan Poe led to Poe's being fired, and Burton sold the magazine and moved to New York. He became one of the leading actors of his day, with a talent for comedy that made his portrayal of Falstaff internationally famous, and he also produced, directed, and managed the theatre. He also wrote fiction, essays, plays, and humor, and edited several collections.

From the description of William E. Burton letter to J.S. Lyon, 1850 June 5. (Pennsylvania State University Libraries). WorldCat record id: 63664645

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Subjects:

  • American poetry
  • Poets, American
  • Book reviewing
  • Male actors

Occupations:

not available for this record

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not available for this record

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