Frederic Lansing Day: The Life and Works of an American Playwright
Frederic Lansing Day was a versatile American figure of the early 20th century, carving out a legacy as a playwright, reporter, and naval officer. Born into a family of financial prominence, Day balanced the expectations of his upbringing with a deep passion for the arts and a commitment to social and religious ideals.
Key Facts
- Born: September 28, 1890, in Newtown, Massachusetts.
- Education: Graduated from Yale University (1912) with postgraduate work at Harvard University.
- Literary Output: Authored 17 plays, including the acclaimed Makers of Light.
- Professional Background: Worked as a reporter for the Boston Herald and served as an ensign in the U.S. Navy.
- Beliefs: Identified as a Socialist and a Unitarian.
- Death: November 22, 1981, in Princeton, New Jersey.
Early Life and Education
Frederic Lansing Day was born in Newtown, Massachusetts, to Henry Brown Day, the founder of the Day Trust Company. His academic journey began at Yale University, where he graduated in 1912 and was a member of the Alpha Delta Phi society. He furthered his intellectual pursuits through postgraduate studies at Harvard University.
A Diverse Professional Career
Before dedicating himself to the theater, Day engaged in several distinct professional roles. Between 1913 and 1914, he worked as a reporter for the Boston Herald. During World War I, he served his country as an ensign in the United States Navy and later became a member of the U.S. Power Squadron.
Despite his artistic inclinations, Day also spent time working within his father's bank. His personal worldview was shaped by his identity as a Socialist and a Unitarian, reflecting a blend of social consciousness and liberal religious thought.
Contributions to American Theater
Day was a prolific writer, completing 17 plays throughout his career. His body of work includes an adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe's The Fall of the House of Usher, as well as titles such as Temple is a Town, Light Beyond the Shadows, and Tattered Tom. He also wrote The Slump (1920) and Heaven is Deep.
Makers of Light
Among his most significant works was Makers of Light, a drama copyrighted in 1920 and published by Brentano's in 1925. The play was originally produced by The 47 Workshop of Harvard and premiered at the Agassiz House Theater in Cambridge on November 25, 1921. The production featured a wide cast, including F.C. Packard, Jr., Angela Morris, and Edith Coburn Noyes.
The play gained critical acclaim for its sincerity and subtle characterization, leading to productions at the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York City, as well as the Little Theater and Play House of Cleveland. Day dedicated the work to his father, noting his father's affection and loyalty despite a lack of belief or approval regarding his path.
Personal Life and Legacy
On January 9, 1915, Day married Katharine Langdon Munroe, the daughter of Boston's James Phinney Munroe. The couple had three children—two sons, Frederic II and Gordon, and a daughter, Elizabeth—and built a home in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 1920. They eventually divorced in 1938, and Day later married Frances Palfrey Bangor.
Day spent the final 17 years of his life in Princeton, New Jersey. He passed away on November 22, 1981, at the Princeton Medical Center at the age of 91.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | 1890–1981 |
| Education | Yale University, Harvard University |
| Notable Play | Makers of Light (1925) |
| Military Service | Ensign, U.S. Navy (WWI) |
| Total Plays Written | 17 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many plays did Frederic Lansing Day write?
Frederic Lansing Day wrote a total of 17 plays during his career.
What was the significance of the play Makers of Light?
Makers of Light was one of Day's most successful works, praised for its characterization and sincerity. It was produced by The 47 Workshop and performed in major venues in New York City and Cleveland.
What was Frederic Lansing Day's educational background?
He graduated from Yale University in 1912 and completed postgraduate work at Harvard University.
What other professions did Day pursue besides playwriting?
Day worked as a reporter for the Boston Herald, served as an ensign in the U.S. Navy during World War I, and worked in his father's bank.
Who was the father of Frederic Lansing Day?
His father was Henry Brown Day, the founder of the Day Trust Company.