Polk County will celebrate William Gillette Day on Saturday, July 23, honoring the actor and playwright who was the definitive Sherlock Holmes of his time.
One hundred years ago, Gillette was one of the greatest stars of the American theater. He lived in Tryon for almost 20 years; his home, Thousand Pines, is in Gillette Woods, which was named for him.
The festivities will begin at 9 a.m. with Mrs. Hudson’s Breakfast, which will include a presentation on Gillette by Henry Zecher. Free tours of the William Gillette exhibit at the Polk County Historical Museum will be available from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Henry Zecher has written the first full biography of this great man, titled William Gillette: America’s Sherlock Holmes. He will hold an additional book signing at the Book Shelf in Tryon from 2 – 4 p.m., July 23.
Tickets and seating for the breakfast are limited. For information, contact Phyllis Martin at 828-863-2643.
– article submitted by Phyllis Martin