Crane, Guy C. Collection, 1975

Collection — Multiple Containers

Identifier: SMHC Collection 0173

Staff Only

Abstract

This collection consists of a reel-to-reel tape, 1 CD duplicate of the reel-to-reel, and transcript of an oral history interview of Guy C. Crane of Mankato, Minnesota. Furthermore, C. Olauson, theatrical director at the university, added some additional information to Crane’s reminiscences. In addition, the collection contains a news release about Crane from a Mankato State University publication. Crane served as stage manager of the Wonderland and Unique vaudeville theaters in Mankato. This interview was conducted in order to gain information about his experiences in the vaudeville entertainment industry during the early 1900s.

Dates

1975

Biographical / Historical

Guy C. Crane was born on December 3, 1889, on a farm near Alexandria, South Dakota. His family moved to Windom, Minnesota, and then to Mankato in 1906. Crane married Lena Offerman of Sleepy Eye, and they had one daughter.

Crane worked in a variety of occupations in addition to his vaudeville activities. During World War II, he worked for contractors in Newfoundland and Greenland. From 1947 until his retirement at age 65, he worked for Swanson Paper and Paint Company in Mankato.

Guy C. Crane died in October of 1980.