July 23, 1923: The centennial of the Monroe Doctrine is celebrated at Exposition Park in the American Historical Revue and Motion Picture Exposition.. The U.S. Mint in San Francisco issued commemorative half dollars for the occasion.
The Times says: “One of the most interesting programs yet staged at the exposition will be given today and tonight when police and firemen day will be observed. Fifty Los Angeles firefighters will reenact thrilling rescues at famous fires in the history of Los Angeles.”
In the Theaters: “The Purple Highway” and “The Lover and the Apache” at Grauman’s Metropolitan, 6th and Hill, later the Paramount, which was eventually demolished.
“Human Wreckage” at Grauman’s Rialto, Broadway near 8th.
“East Side – West Side” at Grauman’s Million Dollar Theatre.
“The Covered Wagon” at Grauman’s Egyptian Theatre.
Dr. John S. Outlaw, an African American physician, files a cross-complaint against his wife’s suit for divorce, alleging that she had an “obsession to masquerade as a member of the white race,” The Times says.
The 1923 Monroe Doctrine commemorative half dollar, in images from Wikipedia.
1. “Human Wreckage” appears to be an attempt by silent movie star Wallace Reid’s wife to cash in on his addiction and/or early death.
2. Trying to pass for white has often led to turmoil in both white and black communities. See e.g. both movie versions of Imitation Of Life. Speaking from personal experience, I assure you that it still stirs up hostility.
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See Mary Mallory’s post on “Human Wreckage.”
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Thank you for the link. Her intentions were good. “Heroes For Sale” (1933) starring Richard Barthelmess deals with the same issues.
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Dr. John Sutton Outlaw is my great, great uncle. Thank you for posting this. It adds a very interesting twist to an already complicated family story.
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Thanks for writing…. It’s an unusual story to be sure.
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