Wood’s Minstrels

First appearance in the minstrel profession of the distinguished violinist, Mr. F. L. Mollenhauer.  Five comedians, the best quartet, and the best instrumentalists in the profession.

“While viewing the row of dark-complected gentlemen before us, we could not help remarking the air of nobility, gentility, and education by which they were seemingly governed.  Under the management of one who has made the business a study, that congregation of black artists go along quietly and orderly; left to themselves, with every man his own master, and each ruling in his own peculiar style, what would become of this famed black band? Echo answers, it would.  And now, friends, having clearly defined the position of Wood’s troupe, set them before you in all their inky blackness, white collars, and diamond pins, let us advise you to go and see them act.  Although only the mock turtle, they sing, dance, shout, and cut up didoes equal to any first-class “Nigger” that ever inhabited Afric’s [sic] sunny or Virginny’s muddy clime.”

“Wood’s troupe are giving good entertainments of varied character. Archy Hughes, quite a clever comedian, took hold last week, going on the end where Charley Fox used to be. Archy is an arch darkey, his comicalities bringing him into favor at once. As a sort of “extra,” Manager Wood has introduced a couple of gymnasts who did two capital acts last week to the evident delight of the spectators. Messrs. Penney and Goldie are the hard currency names of the intrepid performers. The “regulars,” however, seem somewhat opposed to bringing spangles into the business, as it might convey the impression that there is not talent enough in “cork” to draw—however able they may be to draw the cork.”