Ella Wesner (1841-1917), American dancer, singer and male impersonator.
(photo: Sarony, New York, circa 1870)
For several later photographs of Miss Wesner as a male impersonator, see the New York Public Library Digital Gallery). Miss Wesner’s sisters Mary, Sallie, Lizzie and Margaret were also actresses.
Ella Wesner at the Cambridge music hall, London, June/July 1871
‘Miss Ella Wesner, the new and popular American impersonator of male characters, delighted everybody by the spirited and finished style in which she sang ”I’m the pet of the ladies,” ”Glorious champagne,” ”Pistols for two,” and ”The light fantastic toe.” In response to an earnest recall she danced as well.’
(The Era, London, Sunday, 2 July 1871, p.5c)
Footlight Notes 