Alden Garrison facts for kids

Alden Garrison (born 1908, died 1938) was a famous performer from Washington, D.C. He was known for his amazing female impersonations, which means he dressed up and performed as a woman. He entertained audiences in many nightclubs along the East Coast, and his life was often featured in newspapers for Black communities across the country.

Alden Garrison's Story

His Early Life

Alden Garrison was born on June 4, 1908, in Washington, D.C. His parents were Rosa Keeling and Will Garrison. He grew up in Washington, D.C. When he was just twelve years old, Alden first performed in a popular local show called The Rosetime Revue. He danced in costumes, but he likely started performing as a female impersonator when he was older.

A Star on Stage

Alden Garrison became very successful as a nightclub entertainer. A writer for the Baltimore Afro-American newspaper, Ralph Matthews, said that Alden went to New York and almost became as famous as other well-known performers before returning to Washington.

By 1934, Alden had won more than twenty "best dressed" awards at special events called drag balls in Baltimore and Washington, D.C. He was known for wearing fancy outfits, often choosing squirrel or mink wraps with matching accessories. People who saw him perform said his female impersonations were almost perfect.

Later Years

Towards the end of his life, it became harder for Alden Garrison to find work. This was partly because public interest in female impersonators was changing.

When he passed away, the Baltimore Afro-American newspaper reported that he had been going through a tough time, especially after the loss of his godmother, who had raised him. He had also been unwell. Alden Garrison died in Gallinger Hospital in December 1938.