Bess Sankey was an American actress best known for her roles in Blue Grass (1915), Human Cargoes (1916), and At the Lariat’s End (1913). She was born on February 3, 1905, in Oklahoma, USA, and passed away on August 10, 1970, in Stanislaus County, California, USA.
Personal and Family Life
Bess Sankey’s early life began in Oklahoma, but she later moved to California. She started her acting career at a young age, initially working with the Ye Liberty Theater Company in Oakland, California, in 1907. By 1912, she had joined the Marjorie Rambeau Theater Company, showcasing her talent on stage.
Acting Career
Bess gained prominence in the film industry when she became associated with the Essanay Motion Picture Company in Niles, California, from November 1912 to May 1913. After her time with Essanay, she toured across the United States with the Oliver Morosco stage production of “The Traffic” in 1913, solidifying her reputation as a skilled performer.
Death and Legacy
Bess Sankey died on August 10, 1970, in Stanislaus County, California. Though she had a brief career in film, her contributions to early cinema and theater continue to be recognized by film historians. Her work in numerous silent films and stage performances paved the way for future actresses in the industry.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1916 | Human Cargoes | Mary Miles |
| 1915 | Blue Grass | |
| 1913 | Broncho Billy and the Navajo Maid | Broncho Billy’s Sweetheart (as Bessie Sankey) |
| 1913 | Broncho Billy and the Schoolmam’s Sweetheart | Marjorie Wayne, the Schoolmam (as Bessie Sankey) |
| 1913 | Broncho Billy and the Western Girls | Irene Courtney (as Bessie Sankey) |
| 1913 | At the Lariat’s End | Bessie (as Bessie Sankey) |
| 1913 | Alkali Ike and the Hypnotist | (as Bessie Sankey) |
| 1913 | The Rustler’s Spur | Bessie Hargon (as Bessie Sankey) |
| 1913 | Broncho Billy and the Express Rider | Bessie Hendricks (as Bessie Sankey) |
| 1913 | Broncho Billy’s Reason | (as Bessie Sankey) |
| 1913 | Broncho Billy’s Sister | Geraldine (as Bessie Sankey) |
| 1913 | Broncho Billy and the Step-Sisters | Agnes Shepard |
| 1913 | Broncho Billy and the Squatter’s Daughter | Mabel Clark |
| 1913 | The Influence on Broncho Billy | Bessie Hendricks (as Bessie Sankey) |
| 1913 | Broncho Billy’s Ward | Bess Brady (as Bessie Sankey) |