Fred Stone (August 19, 1873 - March 6, 1959) was an actor who played the Scarecrow in the 1902 stage production of The Wizard of Oz opposite his long-time professional partner David C. Montgomery as the Tin Woodman. He also inspired Ray Bolger to play Scarecrow in the 1939 film who as a child saw him a show called The Red Mill.
Stone's theatrical career began in the late 1880s when he joined his father's traveling variety show. He honed his skills as an actor and singer while touring with the troupe, gaining valuable experience and exposure to different audiences. By the 1890s, he had established himself as a versatile performer, capable of engaging audiences with his comic timing and delightful singing voice.
In 1901, Fred Stone made his Broadway debut in the musical comedy "The Wizard of Oz," based on L. Frank Baum's novel. In this production, Stone portrayed the Scarecrow, a role that would become his signature part throughout his career. His portrayal of the lovable, bumbling, and endearing Scarecrow endeared him to audiences and cemented his status as a leading actor in musical theatre.
In 1903, Stone starred in another significant Broadway hit, "The Red Mill," which further showcased his comedic talents and established him as a top musical performer. The show's success opened up more opportunities for him, and he continued to excel in various productions on the Broadway stage.
One of the most notable collaborations of Fred Stone was with actor and playwright David C. Montgomery. Together, they formed a successful comedic duo and created a series of popular musical comedies that delighted audiences. Some of their most well-received works included "Chin-Chin" (1914), "The Lady of the Slipper" (1912), and "Jack o' Lantern" (1909).
As his fame grew, Stone's performances in musicals earned him critical acclaim and garnered a dedicated fan following. Audiences admired his physical comedy, infectious energy, and genuine charm on stage. Moreover, his partnership with David C. Montgomery added to the duo's popularity and contributed to their lasting legacy in American theatre.
Fred Stone's career extended beyond the stage. He appeared in a few silent films and vaudeville performances, further solidifying his status as a versatile entertainer. However, he was most celebrated for his theatrical endeavors.
In his personal life, Fred Stone was known for his warm personality and amiable nature, making him a beloved figure both among his colleagues and the public. He remained committed to his craft and continued to perform on stage for several decades, bringing joy and laughter to countless audiences.
He met his wife Allene Crater who was in the cast of Oz and they named their first daughter Dorothy who was born in 1905. In 1923 they starred together in a musical called Stepping Stones based on the Raggedy Ann stories and various fairy tales. Johnny Gruelle who created the famous doll character envisioned securing the rights for Stone to reprise the Scarecrow but the plan was canceled for uncertain reasons resulting in a much different show. He would also go onto appear in just over a dozen movies. Dorothy later mimicked his style in a 1952 production based on the film where she played the Scarecrow in a six day engagement with the Sacramento Music Circus.
On March 6, 1959, when he passed away at the age of 85. Nevertheless, his impact on musical theatre and his iconic portrayal of the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz continue to be remembered and celebrated in the annals of American theatrical history. He left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, and his contributions remain cherished by theatre enthusiasts to this day.
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