Al. G. (Alfred Griffith) Field

About the Author

Al. G. (Alfred Griffith) Field was a multifaceted entertainer and writer whose life embodied the vibrant spirit of early 20th-century American show business. Born in 1846 in Virginia, Field rose from humble beginnings as a performer in blackface minstrel shows to become a pioneering impresario, founding the Al G. Field Greater Minstrels, one of the most successful touring companies of its era. His career spanned decades, blending music, comedy, and storytelling on stages across the country, where he captivated audiences with his charisma and keen observations of human nature. In his memoir 'Watch Yourself Go By,' published in 1912, Field chronicled his journey through the world of vaudeville and minstrelsy with humor and candor, offering an insider's glimpse into the joys and hardships of life on the road. A self-made man who emphasized hard work and resilience, Field's legacy endures as a testament to the enduring appeal of live performance and personal narrative.