A Theatrical Pioneer Returns to Walla Walla
John Maguire, the man who brought Maude Adams and the first minstrel shows to the Northwest, reflects on 24 years of touring.
John Maguire, the veteran actor and writer, arrived in the city on Saturday after an absence of 24 years. To say he was delighted and astonished at the appearance of Walla Walla after so long an absence is to faintly portray his feelings. He was the first theatrical manager to give this whole Northwest legitimate performances. As far back as 1878, he brought Maude Adams, then a child actress, here to play in a 'Celebrated Case.' Before the era of railroads, he penetrated to remote corners of this then-wild country and gave performances under circumstances and conditions that piled up theatrical experience that for years has been the envy of many actors. He brought the first Pinafore company to Walla Walla in 1879, as well as the first colored minstrel company. John Maguire is here now in the interest of Jessie Shirley and company, who will appear at the opera house during the entire coming week.
“Before the era of railroads he penetrated to remote corners of this then wild country and gave performances under circumstances and conditions that piled up theatrical experience.”
Maguire's story captures the rapid pace of development in the Pacific Northwest, where 24 years was enough to transform a 'wild' outpost into a city with legitimate theater and modern infrastructure. It serves as a reminder of how cultural capital moved through the region alongside the railroads.
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