Notes

George I. Aiken's Dramatization of Uncle Tom's Cabin first performed in Troy New York in September 1852. Source: Montrose J. Moses, ed., Representative Plays by american Dramatists From 1765 to the Present Day New York: E. P. Dutton, 1925, pp. 605-693.

I have considered your application and ask advice of my different friends, and the general sentiment of those who I have cnsulted so far agrees with my one , that it would not be advisable to make that use of the work you propose. It is thought, wit the present state of theatrical performacnes in the country, that any attempt on the part of Christians to identify themselves with them will be productive of danger to the individual charactr, and to the general cause. If the barrier which now keeps young people of Christian families from theatrical enterainments is broken down the by the introduction of respectable and moral plays, they will then be open to all the temptations of those who are not such, as there will be, as the world now is, five bad plays to one good. However specious may be the idea of reforming dramtic entertainments, I fear it is wholly impracticable, and as a friend to you should hope that you would not run the risk of so dangerous and experiment. The world is not good enough yet for it to succeed. I preserve a very pleasant recollection of your family, and of the gratification I have derived from the exercise of your talents, and it gives me pleasure to number you among my friends.

Mrs. Stowe did see one version with Francis H. Underwood (p. 610) in the winter of 1852 or 1853. Possibly her first play, she was apparently much taken with Topsy played by Mrs Howard.

Six Acts:

     "George L. Aiken's Dramatization of Uncle Tom's Cabin"
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