James Stark

James Stark (1819 He was particularly known for his portrayal of Cardinal Richelieu in the play of the same name, As a pioneer actor, Stark brought the earliest legitimate drama to numerous towns in the west. He was also the first actor to pursue a political career in the West when he became a representative from Aurora, Nevada Territory to the first Nevada constitutional convention in 1863. Stark was also popular in Australia.

Stark's early death ws foretold onstage as Stark portrayed Hamlet at Piper's Opera House in Virginia City, Nevada in 1869. He suffered a nosebleed on stage which was observed by the audience and indicated a series of strokes that left him paralyzed for months. He returned to New York City for the remainder of his life, only able to take minor roles. He died in New York City,