In a recent interview, Professor John Bredin of the School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (HASS) shared insights into his research of the often-forgotten actress of the early age of film: Blanche Walsh. With the upcoming publication of his book on Walsh, Bredin offers his connections to Walsh, who she is, and why he is advocating for a better understanding of her.
Blanche Walsh, born in 1873 in New York City to a prominent politician, joined the theater world at a young age with her stage debut at 15 years old, and quickly reached fame as she participated in shows around the world in her early 20s. By the turn of the century, Walsh began acting in the newly popular medium of film. By the 1910s, she played one of her most influential roles in the film adaptation of Leo Tolstoy’s Resurrection. However, Walsh sadly passed away in 1915 when she was only 42 years old.
Walsh is the focus of Bredin’s research. For the past few years, he has delved into her life and worked on ways to make her story more well-known. In an interview, Bredin explained how most of the early work of film, Walsh’s works included, is lost and, therefore, often left out of education and living memory. However, Bredin hopes to illuminate Walsh’s story through his research and publications. In recent years, sources like Film Matters Magazine, the Russian American Cultural Center, and the New York Public Library have invited Bredin to speak about Walsh.
Yet, Bredin’s fascination with Walsh transcends academia and literature—it is deeply personal. His great-grandmother had the privilege of working with Walsh, which fills Bredin with immense pride. He said his great-grandmother and grandmother held Walsh in high esteem, even sharing memorable vacations with her. This familial connection adds a layer of intimacy to Bredin’s research, making it a labor of love and respect.
Bredin is working to publish a book, Blanche Walsh and Me, examining her life and impact on the film industry. His dedication to researching and shedding light on Blanche Walsh’s life and work comes from academic interests and a personal connection. Bredin aims to bring attention to the often-overlooked contributions of this influential figure in the early age of film. His efforts contribute to preserving cinematic history and honoring the legacy of a remarkable actress whose impact deserves to be remembered and celebrated.
