Wilson, Francis. Actor. Born in Philadelphia, PA, February 7, 1854. First professional appearance in a minstrel company. Engaged in legitimate comedy at Chestnut Street Theater, 1877-78, Philadelphia; as Cool in "London Assurance," 1878-79; with Annie Pixley in "M'liss," 1879; with "Mitchell's Pleasure Party," 1880-83. Started in comic opera as Sir Joseph Porter in "Pinafore." Became leading comedian of McCaull Opera Company and of Casino, NY, 1885-89, where he created the character of Cadeaux in "Erminie." Subsequently he took leading comedy roles in "The Oolah," "The Merry Monarch," "The Lion Tamer," "Devil's Deputy," "Half a King," "Cyrano de Bergerac," and in "The Bachelor's Baby" written by himself. He wrote also: "Joseph Jefferson" and "The Eugene Field I Knew."

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