Hubbry Logo
Discover Hubs
Create HubSign in
search buttonadd
Sign in
Florence Lawrence
Florence Lawrence
Comunity Hub
IntroIntro
WikipediaWikipedia
MediaMedia
arrow-down
TimelinesTimelines
arrow-down
ChronicleChronicle
arrow-down
ArticlesArticles
TalksTalks
addSign in
add
Sign in

Themed Timelines

Main milestonesMain milestonesTechnological Innovations and PatentsTechnological Innovations and PatentsEarly Life and Family InfluencesEarly Life and Family InfluencesLater Career and Decline (1914-1938)Later Career and Decline (1914-1938)Filmography HighlightsFilmography HighlightsPersonal Life and RelationshipsPersonal Life and RelationshipsThe Independent Moving Pictures Company (IMP) and Stardom (1910-1912)The Independent Moving Pictures Company (IMP) and Stardom (1910-1912)The Biograph Girl Era (1907-1909)The Biograph Girl Era (1907-1909)The Victor Film Company (1912-1914)The Victor Film Company (1912-1914)
Talks
General forumGeneral forum
General chatGeneral chat

Media Collections

Florence Lawrence - Canadian-American actress (1886-1938)

Main images

03.04.25
Show all
icon
Florence Lawrence, born Florence Annie Bridgwood, was a pioneering Canadian-American stage and film actress. Often hailed as "The First Movie Star," she transitioned from vaudeville to become a staple in early silent films, experiencing both immense fame and, tragically, a descent into obscurity and despair. This timeline highlights key moments in her life, tracing her path from a young stage performer to a cinematic icon and ultimately to a tragic end.
Main Milestones
Birth in Hamilton, Ontario
January 2, 1886
Florence Annie Bridgwood was born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Her mother, Charlotte "Lotta" Bridgwood, was a vaudeville actress, which significantly influenced Florence's early exposure to the performing arts. This environment would shape her future career path and provided her with initial experience in the entertainment industry.
Early Stage Career
Early 1900s
Following in her mother's footsteps, Florence began performing in various stage productions and vaudeville shows. This period was crucial in honing her acting skills and gaining initial recognition as a performer, laying the foundation for her transition to the emerging medium of film.
First Film Appearance
1907
Florence made her film debut, marking the beginning of her cinematic career. Though details surrounding this appearance are somewhat scarce, it signified her entry into the rapidly growing world of motion pictures, where she would soon find significant success.
"The Biograph Girl" & Early Film Stardom
1909 - 1910
Florence's career soared when she began starring in films for Biograph Studios. Because actors weren't credited by name at the time, she became known as "The Biograph Girl." Her natural acting style and appealing on-screen presence quickly made her a favorite among moviegoers, establishing her as one of the first recognizable and beloved film personalities.
Moving to Independent Moving Pictures (IMP)
1910
Florence made a bold move by leaving Biograph to join Carl Laemmle's Independent Moving Pictures (IMP), later Universal Pictures. Laemmle publicly revealed her identity, a revolutionary act at the time, solidifying her status as the first movie star. This shift marked a pivotal point in her career and the industry's recognition of actors' market value.
Peak of Fame and Fortune
1910s
The 1910s were Lawrence's most successful years. She starred in numerous popular films, commanded high salaries, and enjoyed widespread recognition as a leading lady. Her fame helped to popularize the burgeoning film industry and contributed to the development of celebrity culture.
Serious On-Set Injury
1915
A severe accident during filming led to injuries from which she never fully recovered. This marked the beginning of a decline in her health and her career. The injury significantly hampered her ability to perform and ultimately contributed to her professional downfall.
Career Decline and Business Ventures
Late 1910s - 1920s
After her injury, Florence struggled to regain her former status. She attempted a comeback but found it difficult to secure leading roles. She dabbled in business ventures, including a cosmetics company and an invention for signaling arms on automobiles (though the latter’s claim to innovation is debated). These ventures proved unsuccessful, leading to further financial strain.
Bit Parts and Anonymity
1930s
In her later years, Florence accepted uncredited bit parts in films to make ends meet. This was a stark contrast to her earlier fame and recognition, highlighting the transient nature of stardom and the challenges faced by aging actors in Hollywood's competitive environment. She essentially worked as an extra on sets where she was once a star.
Death by Suicide
December 28, 1938
Beset by chronic pain, depression, and financial hardship, Florence Lawrence tragically died by suicide in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 52. Her death marked a somber end to a life that had experienced both extraordinary highs and devastating lows, prompting reflection on the treatment of early film stars and the pressures of fame.

Other Themed Timelines

Early Life and Family InfluencesEarly Life and Family InfluencesFilmography HighlightsFilmography HighlightsLater Career and Decline (1914-1938)Later Career and Decline (1914-1938)Personal Life and RelationshipsPersonal Life and RelationshipsTechnological Innovations and PatentsTechnological Innovations and PatentsThe Biograph Girl Era (1907-1909)The Biograph Girl Era (1907-1909)The Independent Moving Pictures Company (IMP) and Stardom (1910-1912)The Independent Moving Pictures Company (IMP) and Stardom (1910-1912)The Victor Film Company (1912-1914)The Victor Film Company (1912-1914)