BERNARD, SAM

(1863-1927)

   The popular comic actor was born in Birmingham, England, and was brought to the United States by his parents when he was four. At 14, he began performing variety sketches. He performed "Dutch" dialect comedy in musicals, including engagements with Weber and Fields. With the advent of vaudeville, Bernard found his niche, earning $1,000 per week as a single. In 1924, he helped to found the Jewish Theatrical Guild and became its vice president.