Edson, Elie Charlier, 1882-1971

Elie Charlier Edson (March 26, 1882 - November 21, 1971) was a theatrical press agent whose ca reer began with Sarah Bernhardt.<p>
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He was born in Denver, CO, the son of John Tracey Edson and Winona De Clyver.
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Edson attended French schools and Harvard, where he was graduated in 1904 and later was a graduate student. He was president of the university's Cercle Francais when it entertained Mme. Bernhardt, and susequently was press representative on her coast‐to coast tours.
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Becoming a charter member of the Association of Theatrical Press Agents, Edson served as advance man for John Drew, Ethel Barrymore, John Barrymore, Maurice Maeterlinck's “The Blue Bird” and the French Army Band in World War I. Later he was manager in this country for Sacha Guitry, Yvonne Printemps and Louis Jouvet.
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He married first, on October 2, 1908, in Providence, R.I.., as her second husband, Eleanor May Mann or Fairbrother, of Pawtucket, R.I.
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In December 1928, he married Anita Pollitzer. The couple moved to New York City and lived first in 53 Irving Place (during WWI), then at 142 W 87 Street (during WWII) and last in an apartment at 419 West 115th Street.
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In retirement, Edson taught English and French privately and continued his graduate studies at Columbia University, from which he received an M.A. in 1940.
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He died at his home at 89 years old.