Testimonial Benefit to Hobart Bosworth

San Francisco: California Theatre, 1905. Soft cover. Very Good. First edition, large 4to 10" x 12 1/2"; pp. 1-19, [1]; original embossed wraps, tied with a string; fading along margins of wraps, else minor wear; illustrated with photographs and facsimile signatures of the casts; very good. An uncommon item, which appears to be a commemorative program for a string of performances at the California Theatre in San Francisco in 1905, organized by actress Florence Roberts in support of the failing health of renowned actor and producer Hobart Bosworth. He began his career with small roles at several theaters in San Francisco at the end of the 19th century. Battling recurring bouts of tuberculosis he moved to San Diego, where he was contracted to make a motion picture with Selig Polyscope Company. Due to his successful attempt at this new venture, he was credited with being the star of the first movie made on the West Coast. He went on to establish his own company, Hobart Bosworth Productions Company, drawing great success by simultaneously producing and starring in numerous movies, including a series of Jack London dramas.