Fatty Arbuckle -- The Man Who Made Millions Happy -- June 24, 2023

Motion Picture News, 30-June-1923

Roscoe Arbuckle was blacklisted by the film industry even though he was acquitted of a charge of manslaughter. 100 years ago this month, he appeared on stage in Chicago and was well-received. Minta Durfee was the wife who stood by Roscoe during his trials. The House of David was a religious commune that became famous for its amusement park and travelling baseball teams. The men were required to wear beards. 

Indianapolis Times, 05-June-1923

Arbuckle ‘Does His Stuff’.

After 12-Minute Ovation

Fat Comedian 'Comes Back’ Amid Cheers at Chicago

Cabaret -- Revives Slap-Stick Comedy.

By United Press
CHICAGO, June 5. -- Roscoe (Fatty) Arbuckle came back today.

A crowd of 2,000 from Chicago's fashionable "Gold Coast" crowded the Marigold Gardens, a North Shore cabaret last night and cheered as he did his old-time stuff.

"Fatty" appeared in his first real "test" for a return to public favor since the 1921 Labor day tragedy in San Francisco. The amusement resort habitues of Virginia Rappe’s home town declared in a twelve minute ovation of cheers and applause they are ready to forget the affair.

"That’s the first real smile I’ve had for a long time," said "Fatty" today.

Typical Cabaret Show

Arbuckle staged his "come back" with a typical cabaret show, mixed with slap-stick movie comedy. Preceded by a bevy of pretty girls in costumes pre-reminiscent of Cleopatra and another group that wore clothes startling like those made famous by Isadora Duncan, he brought his first laugh with a freak gymnastic act. Then in pink whiskers and a "wig," he imitated "King" Benjamin of the House of David, leading a rollicking chorus about the Benton Harbor cult to the tune of "London Bridge is Falling Down."

"Fatty" wound up the evening with reviving a use for custard pies. He took one in the face without blinking an eyelash. After he did that everybody near the stage. Including Raymond Hitchcock, the "aristocrat of comedy," climbed up and shook his hand.

The big comedian apologized for being nervous.

Woman Uses Cheers

"If you'll overlook that. I’ll be all right in a day or two." he told his audience. A young woman in evening gown climbed on a table, waved her hat around her head and led three cheers.

Scores of congratulatory telegrams were received by Arbuckle today. There was also a long one from the wife who "stood by" him at the San Francisco trials.

Buster Keaton wired:
"Fatty, let your conscience be your guide."

Chicago Tribune, 01-June-1923

Arbuckle to Ask Lifting of Ban -- October 30, 2022

Film Daily, 11-October-1922

Roscoe Atbuckle, banned from films even though he was never found to be guilty of the death of actress Virginia Rappe, asked Will Hays, chairman of the Motion Picture Producers and Distributors of America, to allow him to return to performing in front of the camera. Hays said no.

Photoplay, October, 1922

Rumors said that Roscoe was going to appear on stage or make movies in Japan or China. 

Arbuckle Acquitted -- April 30, 2022

Moving Picture World, 22-April-1922

100 years ago this month, the second trial of Roscoe Arbuckle for the death of Virginia Rappe ended with a mistrial, not an acquittal as the title of this post and article suggest. The defense proved that several vital items of evidence had been faked, and they put the victim on trial, with testimony about her alcoholism and promiscuity.

Moving Picture World, 29-April-1922

Recently crowned chairman of the Motion Picture Producers and Distributors of America, Will Hays, declared that showing of any of Arbuckle's films was suspended.

Roscoe Arbuckle -- First Trial -- December 3, 2021

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 14-November-1921

On 05-September-1921, actor Roscoe Arbuckle and some of his friends had a Labor Day party at San Francisco's Saint Francis Hotel. Guest Virginia Rappe, an actress, became sick and had to be hospitalized. On 09-September-1921, she died because of a ruptured bladder which became infected. Stories began to circulate that Arbuckle had assaulted Rappe. Tried for manslaughter three times, he was acquitted. Virginia Rappe was 26 when she died. Arbuckle's career was ruined. The newspapers sold a lot of copies. Many people who tried to defend Arbuckle said some nasty and unfounded things about Virginia Rappe. 

This is a catch-up post. The first trial started on 14-November-1921 in the Hall of Justice by Portsmouth Square.

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 15-November-1921

"...interest in the jury selection preliminaries had dwindled even from the mild interest displayed when the trial opened yesterday."

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 16-November-1921

Jury selection continued. "Interest in the hearing was even more lax than yesterday." This item appeared on page six. 

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 17-November-1921

The trial was back on the front page, but only tell people that the jury was nearly chosen.

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 18-November-1921

The jury was selected. The prosecution prepared to give its opening statement.

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 19-November-1921

A nurse who attended Virginia Rappe when she died testified that her death must have been caused by the bruises on her body. She denied that the bruises could have been made post-mortem.

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 22-November-1921

"Show Girl Tells of Fat's Orgy." 

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 23-November-1921

Fred Fischbach, a friend of Roscoe's, invited Virginia Rappe and two other people to Roscoe's party. I can't find much about Fischback, but he appears to have been a comedy director.

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 25-November-1921

Roscoe's attorney said that the first doctor who attended Virginia Rappe would testify that she did not say Arbuckle had hurt her.

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 26-November-1921

I was amazed by how quickly the trial progressed.

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 28-November-1921

Arbuckle testified in his own defense. He denied hurting Virginia Rappe and said that some witnesses had lied.

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 29-November-1921

The jury in the case.

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 30-November-1921

Jack White, comedy director, said he had made movies with Virginia Rappe and that she "appeared normal."

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 02-December-1921

Roscoe and one of his attorneys received a letter with a death threat.

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 03-December-1921

The jury was split, with a majority calling for acquittal.

The issue of December 4 was not available. 

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 05-December-1921

Matthew Brady, District Attorney, promised to prosecute the retrial personally. 

"Fatty" Arbuckle and Victim of His Party -- November 5, 2021

Washington Times, 14-November-1921

The trial of Roscoe Arbuckle for the manslaughter of Virginia Rappe was getting underway.

"'Fatty' Arbuckle No Longer Star of Famous Players Organization" -- October 5, 2021

Moving Picture World, 01-October-1921

"Enclosed in the Following Space Is Our Idea What Should Be Said by Everybody in the Moving Picture Business About the Arbuckle Case from Now Forth Until the Entire Matter is Settled." 

100 years ago last month, on 05-September-1921, actor Roscoe Arbuckle and some of his friends had a Labor Day party at San Francisco's Saint Francis Hotel. Guest Virginia Rappe, an actress, became sick and had to be hospitalized. On 09-September-1921, she died because of a ruptured bladder which became infected. Stories began to circulate that Arbuckle had assaulted Rappe. Tried for manslaughter three times, he was acquitted. Virginia Rappe was 26 when she died. Arbuckle's career was ruined. The newspapers sold a lot of copies. Many people who tried to defend Arbuckle said some nasty and unfounded things about Virginia Rappe.

Exhibitors Herald, 08-October-1921

A group of cowboys in Thermopolis, TX showed their disapproval of Roscoe by shooting up the local theater and setting the film on fire out in the street.

Exhibitors Herald, 01-October-1921

Exhibitors were opposed to showing films with Roscoe Arbuckle of Virginia Rappe. 

Exhibitors Herald, 08-October-1921

Exhibitors were urged to book other Famous Players-Lasky (Paramount) films to replace the cancelled Arbuckle films. 

Exhibitors Herald, 22-October-1921

Famous Players proclaimed that Roscoe was no longer one of their stars. He was not contracted to Paramount, but worked under a personal contract with Joe Schenk. "The public out here has about absolved him from anything but being the intended 'fall guy' for a 'shake down.'" No one told the cowboys. 

Albuquerque Morning Journal, 02-October-1921

Roscoe's estranged wife, Minta Durfee, came from New York to show her support. She brought along her mother. 

ARBUCKLE MAY GET BAIL -- September 15, 2021

 

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 15-September-1921

District Attorney Matthew Brady made plans to charge Roscoe Arbuckle in the death of actress Virginia Rappe, who died in a San Francisco hospital on 09-September-1921. She had been in critical condition since attending a Labor Day party held by actor Roscoe Arbuckle at the Saint Francis Hotel on 05-November-1921. She died because of a ruptured bladder which became infected. The DA seemed to be trying to stack the deck against Roscoe. 

ARBUCKLE MAY GET BAIL

ARRAIGNMENT HELD

ON MANSLAUGHTER

CHARGE; TRIAL SET

Freedom To Be Allowed On $5,000 Deposit If

Prosecution Decides To Sidetrack Two Murder

Charges Pending; District Attorney

Undecided As To Course

San Francisco, Sept. 15. -- A county grand jury indictment charging Roscoe Arbuckle, with manslaughter in connection with the death of Miss Virginia Rappe, motion picture actress, after a party in his rooms in the St. Francis hotel, was returned to Presiding Judge Shortall of the superior court today.

The indictment was voted September 14.

Bail was set at $5,000 cash or $10,000 bonds and the case assigned to the court of Superior Judge Harold Louderback in the Hall of Justice.

The indictment:
"We, the grand jury charge, to wit: That on or about the ninth of September, 1921, Roscoe Arbuckle did then and there willfully, unlawfully and feloniously and without malice aforethought, kill Virginia Rappe, a human being."

Arbuckle was not in court.

District Attorney Brady explained that Arbuckle would not be admitted to ball until two murder charges pending against him had been disposed of. He is to confer with the chief of police and other authorities later in the day as to the exact charge on which Arbuckle shall be tried.

Arbuckle Threatened

San Francisco, Sept. 15. -- A threat of violence against Roscoe Arbuckle, "If justice is not done" in his case, was contained in an anonymous special delivery letter received from Sacramento today by Harry Kelly, secretary of the county grand jury. The letter was turned over to the police.

Arbuckle bade goodbye to his cellmate, David Bender, who escaped from the Maryland penitentiary. Bender left today in charge of a Maryland official to serve the remainder of his term. Bender wished Arbuckle "good luck" and the film comedian reciprocated the sentiment.

Funeral Plans Laid

San Francisco, Sept. 15. -- Arrangements are being completed today for the funeral of Miss Virginia Rappe, motion picture actress, whose death in a sanitarium here last Friday resulted in four charges against Roscoe C. (Fatty) Arbuckle, two of murder and two of manslaughter. Herman Jaurag, motion picture director of Los Angeles, is expected to arrive today and take charge of the remains for shipment to Hollywood, Miss Rappe's home.

Prosecutor Thanked.

A telegram from Mayor L. C. Hodgson of St. Paul which thanked Brady for his announced intentions that he will prosecute the case without fear or favor, was made public by Brady today. It continued:

"Latest reports Indicate Arbuckle money Is overcoming state testimony. Do not falter. Fight this to a finish. If Arbuckle is not punished the moving picture business is done, for decent people are tired of the eccentricities of genius. Go the limit and win praise of all good people."

Brady replied that "in spite of Arbuckle's money and influence the case will be prosecuted most vigorously."

Another telegram from Henry Lehrman of New York, Miss Rappe's fiance, to Brady also was made public. It said:

Fiancé Asks Justice.

"For the sake of God and justice to men don't let justice be cheated. It brought tears of rage to my eyes when I read your speech that influence and wealth are brought into play to bar justice. I cried because you told the truth in spite of the pressure of gold to stifle it.

"You are convinced from facts and I from knowing him that Arbuckle killed Virginia Rappe as a result of his attack.

"Now don't let them cheat justice -- for God's sake don't."

While the city authorities busied themselves with the case, federal prohibition enforcement officials, under the direction of Robert R. McCormack, assistant United States attorney general in charge of prohibition violations, continued an investigation of charges that a considerable quantity of liquor was served and consumed at the hotel party in Arbuckle's room in which Miss Rappe is alleged to have received her fatal Injuries. McCormack announced that there would be vigorous investigation and a quick hearing on the charge.

Bail Is Possible.

District Attorney Brady announced that he would be present in the court of Presiding Judge Shortall, of the superior court, when the grand jury manslaughter indictment against Arbuckle is returned, and that he might decide later in the day the charge on which he will try Arbuckle.

It was pointed out by Brady that should it be decided to try the film star on a charge of manslaughter, and the murder charge be dismissed, Arbuckle would be admitted to bail. Under the California law a person charged with murder cannot obtain bail.

The coroner's inquest into the death of Miss Rappe was the most important feature of the Arbuckle case yesterday. The coroner's jury recommended a charge of manslaughter. Telegrams were received by District Attorney Brady yesterday asking him to prosecute the case vigorously. Arbuckle too received telegrams, eighteen of them, the contents of which were not made public. The telegrams to Arbuckle were sent in care ot the chief of police and, it was said, many were from women friends.

Fatty Arbuckle May Be Tried On Two Charges -- September 14, 2021

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 14-September-1921

District Attorney Matthew Brady made plans to charge Roscoe Arbuckle in the death of actress Virginia Rappe, who died in a San Francisco hospital on 09-September-1921. She had been in critical condition since attending a Labor Day party held by actor Roscoe Arbuckle at the Saint Francis Hotel on 05-November-1921. She died because of a ruptured bladder which became infected. Roscoe's estranged wife Minta Durfee stood up for him and provided support. I need to learn more about the women's vigilante committee. 

ARBUCKLE MAY BE TRIED ON TWO CHARGES

Wife Rushing Back

To Arbuckle After

5-Year Separation

New York. Sept. 14 -- Mrs. Roscoe Arbuckle, who was known professionally as Minta Durfee, left New York today for San Francisco to help her husband. If possible, although she has been separated from him for five years.

"I am going to him as I think it my duty to be near him," she said. "I want to help him in every way I can. I don't know just how I can be of service to him, but many things will turn up that I can do.

"When we were married. I was 17 and my husband was 21, That was back in 1908. Five years ago, we agreed to disagree and I received a separate maintenance. Unfortunately -- or perhaps fortunately, as you please -- there are no children. We were not bitter against each other. We simply decided that we would remain good friends. Mr. Arbuckle has been very generous in his treatment of me in regard to finances. I have not had to work during these years, and last February he made me a present of a fine automobile.

"A reconciliation? That depends on whether I find that my place is with him and whether he finds that he is ready for a return to the life we led when we were married, when I was his inspiration. All I know now is that I am going to a friend who needs every bit of help he can get."

Mrs. Arbuckle was accompanied on the trip to San Francisco by her mother, Mrs. Flora Durfee of Los Angeles.

ARBUCKLE MAY BE TRIED ON TWO CHARGES

DEFENSE

ASKS FOR

FAIRNESS

Prosecutor Answers

Report That "Square

Deal" Denied Fatty

With Demand

San Francisco, Cal., Sept. 14. -- Examination of all but expert witnesses was concluded in the coroner's inquest into the supposed murder of Miss Virginia Rappe, a motion picture actress, when the coroner's jury today decided to allow a protest by District Attorney Brady that Miss Zeh Prevost and Miss Alice Blake, show girls, should not be questioned. As a result of the decision, Miss Prevost, who had taken the stand, was excused.

The coroner announced that Dr. Selby Strange, autopsy surgeon, and Dr. William Ophuls, who performed post mortem, on Miss Rappe's body, would be questioned, and that this examination would conclude the testimony taking. Roscoe C. (Fatty) Arbuckle. motion picture comedian, who is charged with having murdered Miss Rappe was at the inquest in accordance with legal requirements.

Defense Answered.

At the inquest Brady said it had been reported to him the defense had complained "it was not getting a square deal."

"If they are not getting a square deal why do they not put Arbuckle on the stand in this inquest?" the district attorney asked. "We will withdraw our objections to further witnesses if the defense thinks it is being hard used."

Defense counsel did not announce what action would be taken.

Faces Two Charges.

San Francisco, Sept. 14. -- The way was cleared today for a speedy trial of Roscoe C. (Fatty) Arbuckle, motion picture comedian, on one of two charges which hold that he is responsible for the death of Miss Virginia Rappe, motion picture actress, after she had been subjected to an alleged attack in his rooms at the St. Francis Hotel.

The first charge is murder, preferred Monday by Mrs. Bambina Maude Delmont, who said she was in an adjoining room at the time of the alleged attack. The second is manslaughter, which was returned as a true bill by the county grand jury last night and which will become a formal indictment when it is filed in court tomorrow.

Two Trials Possible.

The authorities are discussing today the charge on which they will bring the actor to trial. District Attorney Brady is of the opinion that the murder charge should stand. If Arbuckle is cleared of that charge in the event that he is tried on it, he must still face the manslaughter charge.

The coroner's inquest, which started Monday, was continued today with Miss Zeh Provost, motion picture bathing girl, and Alice Blake, show girl, as scheduled witnesses. They attested in statements to the authorities and the grand jury that they were present at the Labor day party in the St. Francis hotel in which Miss Rappe is alleged to have received the injuries that resulted in her death four days later.

Arbuckle Unmoved.

The women's vigilante committee, formed to assist the moral forces of the city in maintaining the honor of the courts and of the administrative bodies, is expected at its regular meeting today to take up the Arbuckle matter and determine on the stand it shall take.

Arbuckle received news of his indictment in the city prison early today. He said nothing and appeared unmoved. Newspapermen who attempted to interview him noted that his face was more pallid than usual and that an air of dejection seems to have become fixed on him.

He sent out for his breakfast, keeping its items a secret.

Dr. Mariana Bertola, president of the women's vigilante committee, said that she expected the committee at its meeting today would adopt resolutions pledging every possible assistance to the authorities in the clearing up of the Arbuckle case.

"We will have a committee of women at the trial," Dr. Bertola said.

Roscoe Arbuckle -- PERJURY CHARGE MADE -- September 13, 2021

 

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 13-September-1921

100 years ago today, on 13-September-1921, a San Francisco grand jury looked into the death of actress Virginia Rappe, who died in a San Francisco hospital on 09-September-1921. She had been in critical condition since attending a Labor Day party held by actor Roscoe Arbuckle at the Saint Francis Hotel on 05-November-1921. She died because of a ruptured bladder which became infected. Stories began to circulate that Arbuckle had assaulted Rappe. Tried for manslaughter three times, he was acquitted. Virginia Rappe was 26 when she died. Arbuckle's career was ruined. The newspapers sold a lot of copies. Many people who tried to defend Arbuckle said some nasty and unfounded things about Virginia Rappe. Mrs. Bambina Maude Delmont, who had come to the party with Virginia Rappe, told a doctor at the hospital that Arbuckle had raped her friend. The doctor found no evidence of rape. Delmont had been accused of extortion, and may have tried to get money from Arbuckle's attorneys. San Francisco District Attorney Matthew Brady used the case to boost his career. Comedy producer and director Henry (Pathé) Lehrman said he had been engaged to Rappe, and pushed hard for Arbuckle to be tried. Tried for manslaughter three times, Arbuckle was acquitted. Virginia Rappe was 26 when she died. Arbuckle's career was ruined. The newspapers sold a lot of copies. Many people who tried to defend Arbuckle said some nasty and unfounded things about Virginia Rappe.  

In these articles, it is easy to see that District Attorney Matthew Brady had it in for Roscoe Arbuckle. He strongly implies that Arbuckle or some other person was tampering with witnesses. 

PERJURY CHARGE MADE

PROSECUTOR SAYS

WITNESS AGAINST

ARBUCKLE SWAYED

District Attorney Declares "Undue Influence

and Pressure of Sinister Character Brought

to Bear;" Claims Testimony of Woman Is

Changed; Another Witness Missing.

San Francisco, Sept. 13. -- A statement expressing the conviction that perjury had been committed by one of the chief witnesses for the prosecution at the grand jury investigation last night of the death of Miss Virginia Rappe, film actress, for whose alleged murder Roscoe (Fatty) Arbuckle is under arrest, was issued here today by District Attorney Matthew Brady.

District Attorney Brady in the statement also charged that he believed "undue influence and pressure of a sinister character has been brought to bear" upon certain witnesses. Whether or not an arrest would be made in connection with his charge of perjury, he said, would depend on further developments.

In his statement District Attorney Brady charged that Miss Zey Provost, also known as Zey Pyvron, had changed her testimony before the grand jury from that she had given previously to the police and officials of the district attorney's office that Miss Rappe had told her Arbuckle had caused her injuries. Earlier last night it was reported Miss Pyvron refused to sign a statement that Miss Rappe had

told her this and later, it was said, she denied that she had ever made the assertion concerning Miss Rappe, Brady said.

District Attorney Brady also charged in his statement that Miss Alice Lake, another prosecution witness, was missing.

The statement came shortly after the grand jury had concluded a five-hour consideration of the case and adjourned without voting an indictment.

District Attorney Brady's statement follows:

"We have sent Miss Pyvron home under surveillance. The girl changed her story completely before the grand jury. Whether or not we shall arrest her and charge her with perjury will depend on further developments. I am convinced, however, that perjury has been committed by her.

"I am convinced that undue influence and pressure of a sinister character has been brought to bear on her and other witnesses, one of whom, Alice Lake, has mysteriously disappeared from her home in Berkeley. We have been unable to find her.

Prosecution Determined

"In spite of these effort, to thwart the ends of justice the investigation will proceed and no effort will be spared to bring the guilty ones to their just deserts.

"Whenever wealth and influence are brought to the bar of Justice every sinister and corrupt practice is used in an effort to free the accused. It is always easy to convict a poor man. The wealthy malefactors are the ones who find means of using their wealth to their advantage. Wealth and influence should not count in favor of defendant, neither should they count against him. The case should be handled just as the cases of the other  gangsters are handled. The Pyvron (something wrong with the following lines - JT)

presence of Captain of Detective

presence of Captain of Detective Duncan Matheson. Assistant District Attorney Milton U'Ren and George Duffy. She repeated this statement time and again. Tonight before the grand jury she changed her testimony."

Defendant Silent

Arbuckle, the last witness summoned by the grand jury during its five hour session, was aroused from a sound sleep about one o'clock this morning. Arbuckle, it is said, was in the grand jury room only three minutes. He is reported to have declined to make any statement, further than to explain that his lawyers had advised him to keep silent.

Mrs. Bambino Maud Delmont had previously testified concerning the party in Arbuckle's rooms at a hotel here on Labor day at which Miss Rappe was present. Other witnesses were heard.

Jury Delays Ballot

After Arbuckle left the grand jury room the jurors began to deliberate upon the testimony given. Behind closed doors, the jurors argued, it is said, for half an hour, having excluded District Attorney Brady and his assistants. The conclusion then was reached, It was announced, to defer action until further evidence

could be presented. No date was set for the resumption of the inquiry. After the adjournment Clifford Curtis, foreman, said:

"We have decided to continue the hearing to give District Attorney Brady the opportunity to secure certain information which we desire. It was thought best not to vote on an indictment tonight."

Tells About Party

Mrs. Delmont testified in detail in the grand jury session regarding the occurrences at the party in which Miss Rappe is alleged to have received her fatal injuries. She had repeatedly knocked and kicked at the closed door behind which were Arbuckle and Miss Rappe, she said, and finally compelled Arbuckle to

open it. She told of having attended the stricken girl and of the girl's removal to the Wakefield  sanitarium from the hotel.

Mrs. Jean Jameson, one of the nurses who had attended Miss Rappe at the sanitarium, testified that Miss Rappe had told her that Arbuckle had treated her roughly and that Arbuckle had said that he had waited five years for the girl. At times Miss Rappe said she did not remember what happened in the room and at other times she accused Arbuckle of hurting her, Mrs. Jameson testified. Dr. William Ophuls, who performed the post mortem on Miss Rappe, and Ira G. Fortlouis and Al Semnacher, guests of the party, also testified.

District Attorney Brady announced that he had summoned Miss Provost for an examination today regarding their testimony before the grand jury.

Witness Put

To Grilling

By Attorney

San Francisco, Sept. 13. -- Miss Zey Provost, motion picture bathing girl, was questioned by District Attorney Brady today regarding testimony she gave before the grand jury in supposed conflict with her other statements to the authorities concerning her interest in the hotel party where Miss Virginia Rappe, motion picture actress, is alleged to have received the injuries from which she died. Simultaneously  Roscoe C. (Fatty) Arbuckle, motion picture comedian, who is charged with murdering Miss Rappe, went before a coroner's jury in the second day of the inquest into the actress' death.

District Attorney Brady said he was going to endeavor to determine if Miss Provost, who is also known as Zey Pyvron, was induced to commit perjury in her grand jury testimony last night. This testimony differed widely with statements made to himself and Captain of Detectives Matheson, Brady said.

Mrs. Bambina Maud Delmont, who brought the murder charge against Arbuckle, was the first witness at the inquest today. Mrs. Delmont was called as a witness in the inquest yesterday but was not permitted to testify.

Arbuckle Made Date

Today she testified she met Miss Rappe and Miss Rappe's manager, Al Semnacher, by appointment in Los Angeles Saturday September 3. They arrived here Sunday night September 4.

Labor day, while Mrs. Delmont and Miss Rappe were having breakfast at the Palace hotel, Miss Rappe was paged and announced afterward that a Mr. Arbuckle wanted to see them all at the St. Francis hotel. Miss Rappe said "it might be Roscoe Arbuckle, but I don't know."

They drove to the St. Francis and Miss Rappe went to Arbuckle's rooms, telling Mrs. Delmont and Semnacher, who had joined them, to wait until she called for them. She telephoned down to them in a few minutes and they went up to Arbuckle's rooms, meeting Arbuckle, Lowell Sherman, Ira C. Fortlouis and Frederick Fischbach. There were many bottles on the table in the room, she testified. Miss Rappe had three drinks of gin and orange juice and Mrs. Delmont had about ten drinks of whisky. Two more girls came in whom she learned later were Alice Blake and Vey Provost.

Heard Screams

The Rappe girl rose and went into the bathroom off Arbuckle's room. When she came out of the bathroom Arbuckle was in his room. He closed the door.

Mrs. Delmont heard screams coming from the room about an hour later and demanded that Arbuckle open the door. He did so and it was noted that he was wearing Miss Rappe's panama hat and the pajamas he was wearing were wet with perspiration. The Rappe girl was on the bed tearing at her clothing and screaming.

"I am hurt. I am dying. He did it."

She removed the girl's clothing and assisted by Fischbach, placed her in a tub of cold water. This had no effect and so Miss Rappe was taken to another room and put to bed.

Arbuckle kept his eye fixed on the witness throughout her testimony, and he appeared to be somewhat affected by it.

Fatty Arbuckle

Dropped by Club

Los Angeles, Cal., Sept. 13. -- Roscoe Arbuckle was dropped from the membership roll of the Los Angeles Athletic club here last night. President William M. Garland said "It was the  unanimous belief of the directors that such a step should be taken."

The L. A. A. C. is the largest club in the city.

Roscoe Arbuckle -- MURDER CHARGES FILED -- September 12, 2021

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 12-September-1921

100 years ago today, on 12-September-1921, comedian Roscoe Arbuckle was arrested in connection with the death of actress Virginia Rappe, who died in a San Francisco hospital on 09-September-1921. She had been in critical condition since attending a Labor Day party held by actor Roscoe Arbuckle at the Saint Francis Hotel on 05-November-1921. She died because of a ruptured bladder which became infected. Stories began to circulate that Arbuckle had assaulted Rappe. Tried for manslaughter three times, he was acquitted. Virginia Rappe was 26 when she died. Arbuckle's career was ruined. The newspapers sold a lot of copies. Many people who tried to defend Arbuckle said some nasty and unfounded things about Virginia Rappe. Mrs. Bambina Maude Delmont, who had come to the party with Virginia Rappe, told a doctor at the hospital that Arbuckle had raped her friend. The doctor found no evidence of rape. Delmont had been accused of extortion, and may have tried to get money from Arbuckle's attorneys. San Francisco District Attorney Matthew Brady used the case to boost his career. Comedy producer and director Henry (Pathé) Lehrman said he had been engaged to Rappe, and pushed hard for Arbuckle to be tried. Tried for manslaughter three times, Arbuckle was acquitted. Virginia Rappe was 26 when she died. Arbuckle's career was ruined. The newspapers sold a lot of copies. Many people who tried to defend Arbuckle said some nasty and unfounded things about Virginia Rappe.  

MURDER CHARGE FILED

ARBUCKLE IS

ACCUSED OF

KILLING GIRL

Film Comedian Held Without Bail on Charge

Preferred by Friend of Dead Actress; Prosecutor 

Says Case Against "Fatty" Complete;

Coroner's Inquest Today.

San Francisco, Sept. 12. -- A formal complaint charging murder was sworn to before Police Judge Daniel O'Brien today against Roscoe C. (Fatty) Arbuckle in connection with the death of Miss Virginia Rappe, a motion picture actress. The complaint was signed by Mrs. Bambina Maude Delmont, a friend of the dead actress.

Arbuckle appeared in court to be arraigned on the charge sworn to by Mrs. Delmont. At the request of the district attorney the case was continued until Friday morning and Arbuckle was taken back to his cell.

Dr. T. B. W. Leland, city and county coroner, said that the inquest would start today, but probably would not be concluded until tomorrow. Doctors Arthur Beardslee, William Ophuls and M. E. Rumwell who attended Miss Rappe, will be called on to testify today, he said. Arbuckle will be present at the inquest, but may not testify today.

In his answer to Lehrman, Brady said Miss Rappe's body would not be shipped to her home in Los Angeles until after the inquest. He asked Lehrman what his wishes were in regard to the funeral.

Mrs. Delmont appeared to be near collapse after making the charge against Arbuckle.

The arraignment was conducted in a haze of flashlight smoke, the flashlights popping with machine gun regularity.

Arbuckle appeared through a side door, flanked by his attorneys and the police guard. He appeared greatly dejected and heaved many sighs.

Court Room Packed.

Following the court session and before he was taken back to his cell, he was given an opportunity to go Into the judge's chambers and smoke a cigarette while the arraignment papers were being made out.

The little court room was packed, the spectators rising in their chairs when Arbuckle appeared and remaining in that position during the brief session. There were few women present.

District Attorney Brady announced that he had received a telegram from Henry Lehrman, motion picture producer of New York and fiancé of Miss Rappe, asking him to obtain a sworn statement from Mrs. Delmont. Brady replied that the statement has already been obtained.

Mrs. Spreckles Named.

Brady said also that he had sent for Mrs. Sidi Wirt Spreckles, widow of John D. Spreckles Jr., who was killed in an automobile accident recently, to question her regarding a visit she made to Miss Rappe at the girl's request after the attack.

Mrs. Delmont, in signed and sworn statements, gave the police many details of the party in Arbuckle's rooms in the St. Francis hotel here a week ago today, at which time Miss Rappe was subjected to an alleged attack by Arbuckle. She died four days later.

Mrs. Delmont attended the party and assisted Miss Rappe after the alleged attack. She appeared personally in court to swear to the complaint. Arbuckle was not in court when the complaint was filed.

Arbuckle is held without bail in the Hall of Justice here. He was arrested last Saturday night on his arrival from Los Angeles and was booked on a charge or murder.

Goes to Grand Jury.

The Arbuckle case is scheduled to be brought before the San Francisco county grand jury tonight. A coroner's inquest into Miss Rappe's death has been called for next Thursday.

Arbuckle has requested that none but his attorneys be allowed to see him at the Hall of Justice. He declined yesterday, on the advice of counsel, to make any statement. His lawyers also refused to make a statement or discuss the case in any way.

Police yesterday were busy examining witnesses whom they say will be presented to the grand jury tonight. These witnesses number 22 and are being guarded by police detectives.

Shows Cancel Films.

Representatives of the Famous Players-Lasky corporation, distributors of the films in which Roscoe Arbuckle is featured, said today that there bad been some cancellations of Arbuckle's pictures as a result of the scandal involving the actor. Any declaration of policy in regard to the corporation's pictures would have to come from New York.

The corporation representatives here declined to say where the pictures were cancelled outside of San Francisco. There were' two cancellations here.

Arbuckle went to bed on his narrow cell couch at 9 o'clock last night and apparently slept soundly. When the prison watch shouted "everybody up" at the usual rising time today, he awakened, but rolled over on the bed and tried to go to sleep again. He was told he must get up, however, so he arose, smilingly.

Eats Big Breakfast.

While he did not take advantage of the prison showers, he dressed with the greatest care. He ordered his breakfast from the outside and when the waiter came, held a long, secret conference with him. The waiter brought back a carefully covered tray which Arbuckle attacked with all of the secrecy possible.

He continued to decline to see any visitors, other than his attorneys. He is scheduled to appear in police court for formal arraignment today.

Captain of Detectives Matheson ordered that Arbuckle be placed in the regular morning lineup of prisoners which is held for the police detectives each morning, and that he be photographed for the rogue's gallery and his fingerprints and Bertillon measurements taken.

Case "Complete" Claim.

Arbuckle consented later to see a group of newspaper men, but refused to discuss the Rappe case with them. He appeared dejected but said he was receiving good treatment in the jail.

District Attorney Grady through Deputy Milton T. U'Ren, said:
"We have a complete case against Arbuckle."

Arbuckle's appearance in police court was delayed until his Bertillon measurements could be taken and he could be photographed for the rogue's gallery.

The measurements showed that his weight was 266 pounds and his height 5 feet 8 5/8 inches. He gave his birthplace as Kansas and his age at 34.

LEHRMAN ENGAGED TO

GIRL; TO PUSH CHARGE

New York, Sept. 12. -- Henry Lehrman, motion picture director, who was engaged to marry Virginia Rappe, the film actress for whose death Roscoe Arbuckle .is held in jail in San Francisco, today said he would devote every moment he could spare from his business to pressing the comedian's prosecution.

"I cannot got to the coast in person," he said, "but I am doing everything that can be done by telephone."

Mr. Lehrman said that he would supervise funeral arrangements after the inquest in San Francisco Thursday. Miss Rappe, he said, had no near relatives. Burial will be in Los Angeles.

Arbuckle Says Actress' Death is News to Him -- September 10, 2021

100 years ago today, on 09-September-1921, actress Virginia Rappe died in a San Francisco hospital. She had been in critical condition since attending a Labor Day party held by actor Roscoe Arbuckle at the Saint Francis Hotel on 05-November-1921. She died because of a ruptured bladder which became infected. Stories began to circulate that Arbuckle had assaulted Rappe. Tried for manslaughter three times, he was acquitted. Virginia Rappe was 26 when she died. Arbuckle's career was ruined. The newspapers sold a lot of copies. Many people who tried to defend Arbuckle said some nasty and unfounded things about Virginia Rappe. 

Arbuckle Says

Actress' Death

Is News to Him

Los Angeles, Cal., Sept. 10. -- Roscoe ("Fatty") Arbuckle, motion picture actor, left Los Angeles early today by automobile for San Francisco, where he said he would assist in the investigation of the death of Miss Virginia Rappe, motion picture actress, said to have taken ill in his apartments in a San Francisco hotel early this week.

Arbuckle said Miss Rappe came to his apartments to meet a friend of his who wished to model some gowns for her. She had "one or two drinks," he said, after which she became hysterical. Two other women, who were callers at the apartments, he declared, looked after Miss Rappe, after which she was taken to another room and placed in the care of a physician. Arbuckle said he had no intimation her illness was serious until informed last night she was dead.

Frank Domingues, Los Angeles attorney, accompanied Arbuckle on his trip to San Francisco today.

Roscoe Arbuckle Held by Police -- September 9, 2021

Salem, Oregon Capital Journal, 10-September-1921

100 years ago today, on 09-September-1921, actress Virginia Rappe died in a San Francisco hospital. She had been in critical condition since attending a Labor Day party held by actor Roscoe Arbuckle at the Saint Francis Hotel on 05-November-1921. She died because of a ruptured bladder which became infected. Stories began to circulate that Arbuckle had assaulted Rappe. Tried for manslaughter three times, he was acquitted. Virginia Rappe was 26 when she died. Arbuckle's career was ruined. The newspapers sold a lot of copies. Many people who tried to defend Arbuckle said some nasty and unfounded things about Virginia Rappe. 

Roscoe Arbuckle

Held By Police

Girl Friend Dead

Police Investigation Shows Virginia Rappe

Died Following Party In Actor's Rooms; Women

Say Girl Found With "Fatty" Nearly

Nude and Partly Unconscious.

San Francisco, Sept. 10. -- Roscoe (Fatty) Arbuckle, motion picture actor, is to be "held in custody" pending the outcome of the police investigation into the death of Miss Virginia Rappe, following a party in Arbuckle's room at the St. Francis hotel here, Acting Captain of Detectives Michael Griffith announced today.

"Arbuckle will not be arrested," Griffith said, "but he will be detained by us until the investigation has been concluded. I have put four detectives on the case. I understand that he is coming up here voluntarily but he will be compelled to remain until the police are finished with him. At present we are not contemplating any charge against him."

Grand Jury to Probe

The county grand jury is to start an investigation Monday into Miss Rappe's death and Arbuckle's interest in it, Harry Kelly, secretary of the jury said today.

"So many women's clubs and private individuals interested in the moral welfare of the city have demanded an investigation that I will present their demands to the jury," Kelly said. "It is our duty to investigate such things and we will certainly do so. The district attorney who is now out of the city, will be advised of the circumstances and he will handle the matter before the grand Jury."'

Autopsy is Held

Dr. R. M. Rumwell, who attended Miss Rappe in the hotel following the party and Dr. Wm. Oppolus who performed an autopsy on her, were called to the coroner's office to be questioned concerning their knowledge of the case.

The party was held last Monday afternoon. Hotel authorities said they requested Arbuckle to leave as a result of the affair, which he did.

According to Detective Kennedy, a man who said he was Arbuckle telephoned from Los Angeles to the detective bureau at 11 o'clock last night, and said he would return here today to assist in clearing up the Rappe case.

The police are not considering bringing any charge at present against anybody involved in the death of Miss Rappe, Kennedy said, but future developments might change the situation, however.

Murder Charge Pends

"The only charge that could he suggested by cases of this character is murder." Kennedy said, "and we have no evidence as yet that such a charge is justified. However the situation is an extremely serious one."

Kennedy said he would question all of those who attended the party.

According to women members of the party, Arbuckle and Miss Rappe went into one of the rooms of the hotel suite, and the door of the room was thereupon locked. Later there were cries and sounds of a scuffle heard in the room they said, and they pounded on the door for admittance. Arbuckle finally admitted them, they saw Miss Rappe on a bed, practically nude and but partially conscious. Her clothing was badly torn, they said, even to her stockings.

Arbuckle Denies Story

She was placed in a cold bath in an endeavor to revive her, but this had no effect and she was taken into another room and put to bed. The house physician was called and later she was taken to the sanitarium where she died.

Arbuckle in his conversation with the police last night, specifically denied all of the statements made by the other members of the party, saying that he was not alone with Miss Rappe at any time and that his conduct at no time was objectionable.

The Sordid Arbuckle Tragedy -- September 5, 2021

Sunset, May, 1915

100 years ago today, on 05-September-1921, actor Roscoe Arbuckle and some of his friends had a Labor Day party at the Saint Francis Hotel. Guest Virginia Rappe, an actress, became sick and had to be hospitalized. On 09-September-1921, she died because of a ruptured bladder which became infected. Stories began to circulate that Arbuckle had assaulted Rappe. Tried for manslaughter three times, he was acquitted. Virginia Rappe was 26 when she died. Arbuckle's career was ruined. The newspapers sold a lot of copies. Many people who tried to defend Arbuckle said some nasty and unfounded things about Virginia Rappe.

Moving Picture World, 10-September-1921

At the beginning of September, 1921, Roscoe Arbuckle was doing well. Several of his movies, features and shorts, were in release. He made many personal appearances. And once in a while he liked to take a drive up to San Francisco for the weekend.

Indiana Daily Times, 07-September-1921

He did some product endorsements. I like this one. "Good nature is evident in the way Roscoe 'Fatty' Arbuckle holds his OMAR."

Moving Picture World, 03-September-1921

Moving Picture World, 10-September-1921

Moving Picture World, 24-September-1921

Moving Picture World, 17-September-1921

Illustrator and puppet animator Tony Sarg made this poster for Gasoline Gus.

Arizona Republican, 04-April-1920

At the beginning of September, 1921, Virginia Rappe's career was still active, although she did not play leads. She may have been engaged to comedy producer Pathé Lehrman, but she went to Roscoe's party at the Saint Francis. She became ill during the party, was hospitalized, and died in a hospital on 09-September-1921.

Moving Picture World, 24-September-1921

Newspapers and magazines quickly turned on Roscoe.

Exhibitors Withdraw Arbuckle Comedies,

Awaiting Court Action on Murder Charge

WHILE Roscoe ('Fatty') Arbuckle languishes in the San Francisco prison under an indictment for manslaughter, with the police still endeavoring to prove a case of murder against him, in connection with the death of Virginia Rappe, an actress, who died of peritonitis four days after a 'drinking' party in the comedian’s suite at the Hotel St. Francis on the afternoon of September 10, exhibitors in some parts of the country are cancelling contracts on Arbuckle pictures and withdrawing them during showings.

The New York Theatre Owners Chamber of Commerce, representing about 500 picture houses, has gone on record against the exhibition at present of Arbuckle pictures. Members assert that the films and the advertising and lobby displays are being hissed. Several theatres in Albany, Troy and Schenectady have banned the pictures. These include, the Proctor, Pearl and Happy Hour in Schenectady.

Members of the Motion Picture Theatre Owners of Southern California have adopted a resolution favoring the withdrawal of the films. This action was taken after Sid Grauman withdrew "Gasoline Gus," Arbuckle's latest comedy, from his Los Angeles theatre. Secretary Glenn Harper is quoted as saying that California people are bitter over the undesirable notoriety the state has received.

The Western Pennsylvania, Missouri and Kansas organizations have voted against exhibiting the pictures at present. Kansas women politicials have asked the state censors to bar Arbuckle films because a large crowd in a Topeka theatre cheered when the comedian was shown on the screen after his arrest.

L. J. Dittmar has stopped an Arbuckle film in Louisville, Ky.

S. R. Kent, general manager of Famous Players-Lasky Corporation, announced:
"There is nothing that we can say. We are awaiting the outcome of Arbuckle's troubles. A few exhibitors have requested changes of the booking of the Arbuckle pictures and in those cases we have bowed to their wishes in the matter."

The original stories told by guests at Arbuckle's party led the San Francisco authorities to formally charge him with murder. They said they entertained little doubt but that the grand jury would immediately indict him under that charge. But when Sadie Reiss, known in films as Zey Privon, reversed, it is alleged, the story she told the police, the grand jury declined to indict and adjourned subject to the call of the prosecutor.

District Attorney Matthew Brady immediately charged that powerful interests were at work to influence the witnesses and said he might charge the Privon woman with perjury. The defense also got a setback when Mrs. Maude Delmont, an actress and another guest at the party, testified. She had sworn out the warrant charging Arbuckle with murder, but before the grand jury she testified that she had had about ten drinks of whiskey and that Miss Rappe went into Arbuckle's room of her own accord.

"They were in there an hour," she testified. "I heard her screaming. I phoned the manager. Arbuckle heard the telephone call and came out. He had on Miss Rappe's hat.

"Miss Rappe, when I went in to her, cried out: 'I'm hurt, I'm dying. He did it.'

"I took off her clothing and we put her in a cold bath. Yes, she was pretty fully clothed -- had on shirtwaist, stockings and everything. She commenced to tear at her clothes."

The rest of Mrs. Delmont's testimony described Miss Rappe's nervous condition. During the examination Dr. Leland asked her if she felt sleepy.

"Oh, no," she replied. "I had a hypodermic this morning and I'm all right."

Arbuckle Silent

The known witnesses examined so far include Al Semnacher, Los Angeler, Miss Rappe's manager; Zey Privon, actress; Alice Blake, San Francisco entertainer; Lowell Sherman, actor; Fred Fischback, director; Joyce and Dollie Clark, actresses; Ira G. Fortlius, New York salesman, all of whom are said to have been at the party; Mrs. Jean Jameson, Miss Martha Hamilton and Miss Vera Cumberland, nurses; half a dozen physicians and the detectives. Arbuckle has steadfastly refused to make any statements, being thus advised by his lawyers. Betty Campbell is said to have disappeared.

The prohibition enforcement authorities are endeavoring to learn where Arbuckle got his liquor, as the hotel suite is reported to have been full of it.

Post-Mortem Statement

The following post-mortem statement on Miss Rappe's death was given by Dr. William Ophuls:

"The post-mortem examination showed a ruptured bladder, the rupture being clue to natural causes. There were no marks of violence on the body. There were absolutely no evidence of a criminal assault, no signs that the girl had been attacked."

Dr. W. E. Rumwell told of attending Miss Rappe and admitted making a post-mortem examination with another doctor without official authority. She said he was curious to know the cause of the peritonitis that caused her death. He said he found the rupture of an important organ, resulting in death.

Weighed 16 Pounds at Birth

Arbuckle was born in Smith Center, Kansas, in 1887. His weight at birth was sixteen pounds. He is recalled by the townspeople as a fat, overgrown, mischievous lad, with a natural bent for acting. He got his first stage job when 8 years old in Santa Ana, Cal., as a pickaninny in a stock company for 50 cents a night. His first regular job came ten years later when Sid Grauman hired him at $17.50 a week to sing popular songs in his San Jose vaudeville house. Chris Brown hired Arbuckle to sing at the Star Theatre, Portland, Ore., and Leon Errol took him into one of his companies. At one time he was a soft shoe dancer in Oakland. He entered pictures at $3 a day as an extra for Keystone.

Minta Durfee, Arbuckle’s wife, from whom he separated about five years ago, is on her way to San Francisco with the avowed purpose of helping him. To New York newspapermen she characterized her husband as "just a great big, lovable, pleasure-loving, overgrown boy whose success and prosperity have been a little too much for him." They were married in 1908. She said they parted friends and that Arbuckle has been generous in his allowance to her. Last February he gave her an automobile.

Arbuckle’s only sister, Mrs. Nora Arbuckle St. John, mother of Al St. John, the comedian, and Arbuckle’s two brothers, Harry and Arthur, are already in San Francisco, having left Los Angeles.

Henry Lehrman has been heavily interviewed by New York newspapers and seized the calcium by announcing he was Miss Rappe’s "fiancé" and that Arbuckle "would have to answer to him" if "justice" wasn’t done. Others in the industry have leaped into publicity in the case and the newspapers of the country are playing the story sensationally.

Moving Picture World, 24-September-1921

The Sordid Arbuckle Tragedy

WE do not propose to judge the guilt or innocence of Roscoe Arbuckle, accused of causing the death of Virginia Rappe in San Francisco. The machinery of law has been put into motion and in the course of time a decision will be reached and made public.

The culpability of Roscoe Arbuckle will not be established until then, but in the weeks that will intervene the entire moving picture business will suffer from the sensational retailing in the daily newspapers of all the sickening details of the death and the causes which led to it.

Already the newspaper bureaus have been asked by their newspaper customers for every scrap and morsel of information in this case and in other cases (fortunately a very few) where moving picture people have been involved in smirching situations.

Of course, the moving picture business is not responsible for the drinking party nor for the tragedy, any more than the reverend clergy were responsible for the minister of the gospel who, in cold blood, murdered a young woman of his parish in Boston not so long ago, nor any more than the banking business was responsible for the notorious marital infelicities of Mr. Stillman, the head of one of the greatest banks in the world. But the public's love for a sensation, especially a sensation in which a man known to the millions is the central figure, creates a morbid demand which the newspapers find nothing unprofessional in supplying.

In our opinion, Mr. Arbuckle's screen career is at an end. Earlier in the short history of our business a popular star became known as a wife-beater and his popularity disappeared over night. Later a man who stood at the very top of the wave crest of popular favor was divorced by his wife and immediately he became a cipher as a screen attraction. No matter what the verdict of the courts, the action of the Grand Jury, or the recommendations of the district attorney of San Francisco, the public, fed to the full with stories of a drunken debauch in which women were so lightly held, will turn against Roscoe Arbuckle. He scarcely can rise from the ruin that has crashed down about his head. The public and the moving picture industry will not tolerate a smirched figure on the screen.

In cases of this kind, in whatever business or in whatever walk of life their principals happen to be moving, the innocent suffer with the guilty, and so the moving picture industry may be prepared at all censorship hearings, or in all the reformers' railings, to have the Arbuckle case flung into its face for years to come.

We have no sympathy for those in our business who seek to use the case as a vehicle for bringing publicity to themselves, or for those business rivals of Roscoe Arbuckle who see a temporary advantage for themselves in the miserable plight in which he finds himself. They must indeed be short of vision if they do not realize the damage which all of our industry innocently sustains from this unhappy and wholly sordid tragedy.

Our business is peopled with men and women of high character, of sincere motives, of honest and faithful endeavor. They are husbands and fathers, wives and mothers, sons and daughters, as clean of mind and conduct as can be found in any business, in any social stratum and in any endeavor in the world. It is this great majority that suffers most in these pitiful and tragic circumstances.

It is to be hoped that the law's investigation will be swift, just and complete, so that the facts once established can be, with the immediate principals of the seamy cast, put behind us.

Mav this be the last of the sensations furnished by the "movies."

ARTHUR JAMES.

Moving Picture World, 24-September-1921

 

It Is Not for Us to Pass Judgment on

Roscoe Arbuckle, Says M. P. T. O. A.

THE following statement on the Arbuckle case has been made by the Committee on Public Welfare, Motion Picture Theatre Owners of America:
"While the Motion Picture Theatre Owners of America is cognizant of the charges made against Roscoe Arbuckle, yet the apparent reflection which seems to be cast upon the entire motion picture industry because of these charges demands that this organization at this time and in terms as emphatic as it is capable of, declare that it has lost none of the sublime confidence it has always manifested in the laws of our government and the integrity of its various prosecuting officers.

"This organization knows that Roscoe Arbuckle will be prosecuted, as he should be, by the same methods and under the same laws that the humblest citizen in California would be dealt with, and if a jury of his peers, decides that he is guilty of the crime as charged, not only will this organization refuse to sympathize with him but will ring loudest in its condemnation.

"However, we believe that it is not for us to pass judgment on him, nor any other in similar circumstances, but to withhold our judgment until the jury shall return a verdict, and to be guided by that alone.

"Exact Analogies."

"However, we keenly resent the indictment hastily and unthinkingly made against the entire motion picture industry because of this most unfortunate occurrence. Not so long since, when a minister of the gospel was charged with a heinous crime, no one ever thought, and very properly so, that it cast a reflection upon all those distinguished gentlemen of the cloth, nor yet when one of America's foremost bankers played an important part in a sensational domestic controversy did the public look with suspicion upon the entire banking interests. And so we might recount instances in every profession and every industry known to the civilized world and find exact analogies.

"Our motion picture theatre owners are modest, industrious family men of the highest type of citizenship in this coun- try, which is evidenced even in the smallest hamlet by the respect in which they are held. The industry at large is made up of the best executive minds, the greatest artists and the best mechanics, and it is high time they were accorded that same fairness and justice that is so freely given to men in every other walk of life.

Against Reissue Showing Victim

"This organization respectfully submits that of the hundreds of thousands of men and women earning a livelihood in the motion picture industry, there has been but a mere handful who do not enjoy an enviable reputation for industry, citizenship and morality.

"This organization, formed for the protection of the motion picture going public, has never swerved from its original intention and is determined to remain steadfast as long as its exists. We will never, in so far as we can prevent it, permit any one to capitalize crime or indecency, nor to use our screens for the purpose of morbid notoriety. Upon this, we assure the public, they can absolutely depend.

"While various state and local associations have already declared that they will not show Roscoe Arbuckle pictures until he shall have purged himself of this charge, no more so shall we tolerate the showing on our screens of any picture of the unfortunate Virginia Rappe. We make this observation because our notice has been called to the fact that a certain distributing company has decided to reissue an old comedy picture showing Miss Rappe, who appears in a very minor and inconspicuous part, and we want the people to know that they will never turn morbidity into dollars with our assistance."

First National Withholds Virginia Rappe Films

UNDER date of August 14, Sydney S. Cohen, national president of the M. P. T. O. A., has written Associated First National Pictures, Inc., that he has been informed its exchanges are "extensively exploiting and reissuing films in which Miss Virginia Rappe plays a minor and inconspicuous part." He writes that if this is true, the M. P. T. O. A. will look upon it "with positive disfavor."

J. D. Williams, manager of the circuit, replied immediately, expressing great surprise and saying that he has no record of any such bookings made since September 11. He presented a copy of a telegram sent all exchanges, to the effect that no bookings will be countenanced on "The Punch of the Irish," "Wet and Warmer," "Kick in High Life," "Twilight Baby," and "Game Lady," all pictures in which Miss Rappe played. The telegram asks for reports on any instances where exhibitors recently playing any of these pictures may have ignored the posters and press sheets, in which Miss Rappe's name does not appear, and instead used "special matter printed locally and featuring her."

Moving Picture World, 24-September-1921

And finally, this was added to a little item about promoting one of Roscoe's movies:

In this issue we offer a number of exploitation stunts on Roscoe Arbuckle, prepared before the recent developments. As these all have a distinct exploitation value apart from the star, they are offered here for the general information of the exhibitor-exploiter.