NAME: Gladys Aylward
WHAT FAMOUS FOR:
Gladys Aylward is famous for her courageous missionary work in China, particularly her efforts to rescue orphaned children during the tumultuous years of the Chinese Civil War and World War II.
BIRTH: Gladys Aylward was born on February 24, 1902, in Edmonton, London, England.
FAMILY BACKGROUND: She was born into a working-class family, the daughter of Thomas John Aylward, a postman and Rosina Florence.
CHILDHOOD: Aylward's childhood was marked by poverty and hardship, but she demonstrated a strong sense of determination and compassion from a young age.
EDUCATION: She received a basic education but left school at the age of 14 to work as a domestic servant.
CAREER RECORD: Aylward's career was defined by her missionary work in China, where she served as a Christian evangelist and humanitarian.
Worked various jobs in England before feeling called to missionary work in China.
Arrived in China in 1932 and established a small inn in Yangcheng.
Fought against the practice of foot binding and rescued young girls.
Became a warden for a children's home and later opened her own orphanage.
Led hundreds of orphans on a perilous escape from Japanese forces during World War II.
Continued her humanitarian work in China and Taiwan after the war.
APPEARANCE: She was of average height with a plain, unassuming appearance that belied her inner strength and resilience.
Gladys Aylward in China |
FASHION: Aylward dressed modestly and practically, often wearing simple clothing suitable for her missionary work in rural China.
CHARACTER: She was known for her unwavering faith, compassion, and determination in the face of adversity.
SENSE OF HUMOUR: Aylward had a dry sense of humor and a quick wit, which she often used to diffuse tense situations or bring joy to others.
RELATIONSHIPS: Although unmarried, Aylward formed close bonds with the Chinese people she served, particularly the orphaned children under her care.
MONEY AND FAME: She lived a modest and frugal life, prioritizing her missionary work and the welfare of others over personal wealth or fame.
Aylward gained international recognition after the publication of her biography, The Small Woman.
FOOD AND DRINK: Aylward embraced the local cuisine of China, often eating simple meals of rice, vegetables, and tea with the people she served.
MUSIC AND ARTS: While not particularly interested in music and arts herself, Aylward used creative methods such as storytelling and drama to share her message of faith with the Chinese people.
LITERATURE: She read extensively, particularly Christian books. Aylward valued the Bible as her primary source of inspiration and guidance, often quoting scripture in her teachings and writings.
NATURE: Aylward appreciated the beauty of the natural world, finding solace and inspiration in the rugged landscapes of rural China, particularly its mountains..
HOBBIES AND SPORTS: Her main hobbies included reading, gardening, and spending time with the children under her care.
SCIENCE AND MATHS: Although not formally educated in science and math, Aylward had a practical understanding of these subjects gained through her experiences as a missionary.
PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY: Her life was guided by her Christian faith. She believed in the power of faith, love, compassion, and service to others.
Stuck in domestic service at a young age, Gladys Aylward dreamt of faraway lands and spreading the good word. She studied with great determination in order to be fitted for the role, only to be turned down by the China Inland Mission because her academic background was inadequate.
Gladys scraped together every penny, booked a one-way ticket to China (no refunds!), and ended up partnering with a formidable Scottish missionary named Mrs. Jeannie Lawson. Together, they opened The Inn of the Eight Happinesses in a remote outpost at Yangcheng – not exactly a catchy name, but hey, it had a roof and four walls, which was more than most folks in Yangcheng could boast. There, she and Mrs. Lawson not only provided hospitality for travelers but would also share stories about Jesus.
Gladys became a crusader against the barbaric practice of foot binding, stomping around like a one-woman podiatry police force. She took in orphans faster than a bakery sells doughnuts on Saturday morning, even adopting a few herself. There were prison riots she intervened in. She risked her life many times to help those in need.
By the time 1949 rolled around, China wasn't exactly the picture of tranquility. Communists were about as keen on missionaries as a fly in your soup, so Gladys, headed back to Blighty. After her mum passed away, she settled in Taiwan and guess what? Yep, you guessed it – another orphanage! The Gladys Aylward Orphanage, to be precise. There she stayed, spreading kindness and Christianity until the good Lord himself called her home.
SCANDAL: There were no scandals associated with Aylward's life; she was widely admired for her selflessness and dedication to humanitarian causes.
MILITARY RECORD: Aylward was not involved in military service but played a crucial role in evacuating orphaned children from war-torn regions during the Second Sino-Japanese War.
In 1938, the region Aylward was serving in was invaded by Japanese forces. Most folks would've hightailed it outta there faster than you can say "banzai," but Gladys? She wasn't about to abandon her orphans. So, she led more than 100 of them over treacherous mountain passes, all while nursing a war wound that would make lesser folks cry like a toddler separated from their blankie.
HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS: Despite facing numerous challenges and hardships, Aylward maintained good health and physical fitness well into her later years.
HOMES: She lived in various locations throughout China during her missionary work, often in simple accommodations provided by local communities. They included Yangcheng, Taiyuan, and Yanan, where she established orphanages.
TRAVEL: Aylward traveled extensively throughout China, often on foot or by mule, as she carried out her missionary work in remote villages and regions.
DEATH: Gladys Aylward passed away on January 3, 1970, in Taipei, Taiwan, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service and compassion.
APPEARANCES IN MEDIA: Gladys Aylward's story captured the hearts and imaginations of many. Here are some key appearances in media:
The book The Small Woman by Alan Burgess, published in 1957, detailed her extraordinary life. This biography became a bestseller and brought international recognition to Aylward's work.
The 1958 film The Inn of the Sixth Happiness starring Ingrid Bergman was based on Burgess's biography. The film further popularized Aylward's story and legacy.
In addition several documentaries have been produced about her life and humanitarian efforts.
ACHIEVEMENTS: Gladys Aylward's achievements transcended geographical boundaries:
Rescuing Orphans: During wartime, she led hundreds of orphans on a daring escape, saving them from potential harm. Her orphanages throughout China provided a safe haven for countless children.
Championing Social Change: Her unwavering opposition to the cruel practice of foot binding empowered women and girls. She fought for their rights and well-being.
Cross-Cultural Understanding: Aylward embraced Chinese culture, learned the language, and dressed modestly. This dedication fostered trust and respect, allowing her to connect deeply with the people she helped.
Symbol of Courage and Faith: Her unwavering belief in God and her remarkable courage in the face of adversity continue to inspire people worldwide.
NAME: Gene Autry
WHAT FAMOUS FOR: Gene Autry is famous for his contributions to American popular culture as a singer, songwriter, actor, and iconic cowboy entertainer.
BIRTH: Gene Autry was born on September 29, 1907, near Tioga, Texas, USA.
FAMILY BACKGROUND: He was born into a middle-class family, the son of Delbert Autry and Elnora Ozment.
CHILDHOOD: Autry spent his early years on his family's farm, where he developed a love for music and horses. He learned the guitar and sang in his grandfather's church choir. Young Gene toured with a medicine show during his high school years.
EDUCATION: He attended public schools in Texas but left formal education at a young age to help support his family.
CAREER RECORD: Gene Autry had a prolific career spanning several decades, during which he achieved success as a recording artist, radio star, film actor, and television personality.
After high school, Gene Autry worked as a telegrapher for the St. Louis and San Francisco Railroad in Oklahoma and performed as a singer and a guitarist at local dances before being discovered by Will Rodgers.
Starred in 93 Western films between 1934 and 1953.
Hosted the popular television series The Gene Autry Show from 1950 to 1956.
Owned several radio and television stations.
Founding owner of the California Angels baseball team (now the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim).
APPEARANCE: He was tall and lean, with rugged good looks that epitomized the image of the American cowboy.
Autry in the 1940s |
FASHION: Autry was known for his signature cowboy attire, often seen wearing a Stetson hat, boots, and a Western-style shirt and jeans.
CHARACTER: He was known for his humility, integrity, and generosity, traits that endeared him to fans and colleagues alike.
SENSE OF HUMOUR: Autry was known for his dry wit and ability to deliver comedic lines in his films, often with his sidekick Smiley Burnette.
RELATIONSHIPS: He was married twice, first to Ina Mae Spivey (1932-1980) and later to Jacqueline Ellam (1981-1998). He had no children of his own but had a close relationship with his stepchildren.
MONEY AND FAME: Autry achieved significant wealth and fame throughout his career, becoming one of the wealthiest and most successful entertainers of his time.
Beyond the glitz and the twang, Autry was a shrewd businessman. Radio stations? Check. Television stations? Double-check. Properties from Palm Springs to San Francisco? You betcha. Heck, the man even owned the Los Angeles Angels (later the California Angels) for a good chunk of the 20th century.
He ranked for many years on the Forbes magazine list of the 400 richest Americans.
FOOD AND DRINK: He enjoyed simple, hearty meals typical of American cuisine, often preferring home-cooked meals over extravagant fare.
MUSIC AND ARTS: Autry was passionate about music, particularly country and western styles. He played guitar and yodelled in his signature style.
There he was, tapping out telegrams for the St. Louis and San Francisco Railroad by day, then serenading locals with his guitar by night. Imagine that – the dulcet tones of a future singing cowboy echoing through a dusty telegraph office. Well, one night, destiny – or maybe just boredom – decided to intervene. In waltzes Will Rogers, American humorist extraordinaire. Catches Autry warbling away, likes what he hears, and delivers the golden ticket: "You, son, got yourself a decent voice. Go pro." And pro Gene Autry went, transforming himself into "The Singing Cowboy."
Hollywood, 1934. Autry rocks up, all wide-eyed and bushy-tailed. Couldn't act, couldn't ride, couldn't rope a steer to save his life. Didn't matter a hoot. Within a few years, he's the biggest cowboy star on the silver screen. Talk about raw charisma. Debuts in Ken Maynard's forgettable flick, In Old Santa Fe, then tackles a 13-part serial so outlandish it makes your head spin, The Phantom Empire. Republic Pictures throws a contract his way, and bam! Autry's churning out westerns like a well-oiled Gatling gun.
Then there's "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer." You know it, you love it. But here's the kicker: this holiday classic wasn't even written for Christmas! Hatched in Chicago for a Montgomery Ward promotion, the lyrics started life as a poem before Gene Autry finally wrangled it into a hit song in 1949.
Originally penned by Ray Whitley, a singing cowboy in his own right, "Back In The Saddle Again" hit the dusty trail in the 1938 flick Border G-Man. Whitley, along with his posse, The Six Bar Cowboys, introduced the song, its lyrics yearning for a return to the wide-open range.
Well, that yearning must have struck a chord with Gene Autry, a man who practically lived on horseback. He snatched up the song, seein' it as the perfect anthem for his next picture, Rovin' Tumbleweeds (1939). After a bit of wranglin' – some retooling by Whitley and Autry – the song became a runaway hit, a gold record to boot. The tune was so darn catchy, it became a constant companion: theme song for his radio show Gene Autry's Melody Ranch, later finding a home on his television show too, The Gene Autry Show. Heck, it even wrangled the title spot for his 1941 film, Back in the Saddle.
LITERATURE: While not known for literary pursuits, Autry's songs and films often drew inspiration from American folklore and storytelling traditions.
NATURE: He had a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the American West, often incorporating scenes of wilderness and outdoor adventure into his work.
HOBBIES AND SPORTS: Autry was an avid horseman and enjoyed participating in rodeos and equestrian events in his spare time. He also known to be an avid golfer.
Gene Autry owned the Los Angeles Angels American League baseball club from 1961 to 1997. Sadly, he never saw them snag a World Series win, though they did retire his number 26 – a fitting tribute to a true American legend. When the Angels finally won their first World Series championship in 2002, star outfielder Tim Salmon held Autry's cowboy hat aloft during the on-field celebration, and the public address system played, "Back in the Saddle Again".
SCIENCE AND MATHS: While not formally educated in science and mathematics, Autry had a practical understanding of these subjects gained through his experiences on the ranch.
PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY: Autry's philosophy was rooted in the values of hard work, perseverance, and integrity, reflecting the ethos of the American frontier.
His grandfather was a Methodist preacher, but his personal beliefs are not widely known.
SCANDAL: Autry maintained a clean public image throughout his career, avoiding scandal or controversy.
MILITARY RECORD: He served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, entertaining troops and participating in morale-boosting efforts.
HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS: Autry maintained good health throughout much of his life, owing in part to his active lifestyle and outdoor pursuits.
HOMES: He owned several properties throughout his life, including a ranch in California and a home in Palm Springs.
TRAVEL: Filming his Western movies took Autry to various locations across the United States, particularly in the West and making occasional trips abroad.. Promotions, recording sessions, and rodeo appearances might have involved additional travel.
DEATH: Gene Autry passed away on October 2, 1998, at his home in Studio City, California. The cause of death was complications from lymphoma, a type of blood cancer.
APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Gene Autry's legacy is heavily tied to his media appearances. Here's a breakdown:
Films: The quintessential "singing cowboy," Autry starred in a staggering 93 Western films between 1934 and 1953. These movies were immensely popular and helped shape the genre.
Television: Capitalizing on his film success, Autry hosted the popular children's television series The Gene Autry Show from 1950 to 1956. The show further solidified his image as a wholesome Western hero.
Recordings: A prolific recording artist, Autry released numerous songs and albums throughout his career. His music, often featuring his signature yodeling, played a significant role in the early development of country music.
ACHIEVEMENTS Gene Autry's accomplishments transcended film and music. Hey is the only entertainer to have been honored in all five categories by the Hollywood Walk of Fame, having been awarded stars for his performances in films, music recording, radio, television, and live theater. Here are some highlights:
Music Industry Recognition: He received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, a prestigious honor in the music industry.
Country Music Recognition: The Academy of Country Music Awards honored him with the Cliffie Stone Icon Award, solidifying his place as a legend in country music.
Preserving Western Heritage: Passionate about Western culture, Autry founded the Gene Autry Western Heritage Museum (now known as the Autry Museum of the American West). This museum preserves and showcases the history of the American West.
Shaping a Genre: Through his films and music, Autry played a pivotal role in shaping the Western genre, leaving a lasting impact on American popular culture.