George Ade

George Ade Biography

George Ade (February 9, 1866 – May 16, 1944) was an American writer, newspaper columnist, and playwright, celebrated for his humorous observations of American life and his mastery of vernacular language. Born in Kentland, Indiana, Ade was the second youngest of seven children. He developed a love for reading early on and graduated from Purdue University in 1887.

After college, Ade worked as a reporter for the Lafayette Call before moving to Chicago in 1890 to join the Chicago Morning News, later known as the Chicago Record. There, he penned the column "Stories of the Streets and of the Town," illustrated by his friend John T. McCutcheon. These sketches, capturing the essence of urban life, were compiled into books such as Artie (1896) and Pink Marsh (1897).

Ade's national acclaim soared with the publication of Fables in Slang (1899), a collection of witty tales that showcased his talent for capturing the American vernacular. This success led to a series of fable collections and solidified his reputation as a leading humorist. Transitioning to theater, Ade wrote several successful plays, including The Sultan of Sulu (1902), The County Chairman (1903), and The College Widow (1904), further expanding his influence in American entertainment.

In the early 1900s, Ade returned to Indiana, establishing his estate, Hazelden, near Brook. There, he continued to write, entertain guests, and engage in various social activities. Throughout his career, Ade's works provided insightful commentary on societal norms, human behavior, and the quirks of everyday life, leaving a lasting impact on American literature.

Trivia About George Ade

• Ade was a lifelong bachelor but was known for his hospitality, frequently hosting notable figures at his Hazelden estate.
• He was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity and maintained a close friendship with fellow member and cartoonist John T. McCutcheon.
• Ade's play The College Widow was adapted into the musical comedy Leave It to Jane in 1917, with music by Jerome Kern and lyrics by P. G. Wodehouse.
• He was a significant supporter of Purdue University, contributing to the construction of several campus buildings, including the Memorial Gymnasium and Memorial Union Building.

Famous Quotes by George Ade

• "Anybody can win unless there happens to be a second entry."
• "One man's poison ivy is another man's spinach."
• "After being turned down by numerous publishers, he decided to write for posterity."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was George Ade?

George Ade was an American humorist, playwright, and newspaper columnist known for his witty observations of American life and his mastery of the vernacular, particularly through his 'Fables in Slang.'

What is 'Fables in Slang'?

Fables in Slang is a collection of humorous short stories published by George Ade in 1899, which used contemporary slang to satirize societal norms and human behaviors.

What contributions did George Ade make to theater?

George Ade wrote several successful plays, including The Sultan of Sulu, The County Chairman, and The College Widow, which were well-received on Broadway and contributed to early 20th-century American theater.

Related Literary Movements

George Ade was associated with the Golden Age of Indiana Literature (1880–1920), a period when Indiana authors gained national prominence. His works align with American realism and humor, capturing the vernacular and societal nuances of his time.

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