Ruth Stonehouse was an American actress best known for her roles in films such as “The Gilded Cage,” “The Master Mystery,” and “The Devil’s Cage.” She had a significant impact on the early film industry, not just as a performer but also as a businesswoman.
Personal and Family Life
Ruth Stonehouse was born on September 28, 1892, in Denver, Colorado. She was married twice; her first marriage was to Joseph Anthony Roach, which ended in divorce in 1921. Later, she married Felix Hughes in 1927, who was the younger brother of Rupert Hughes and the uncle of Howard Hughes. Ruth was one of the few women involved in the business side of the film industry during her time.
Career
Ruth started her show-business career as a dancer at the age of eight. She co-owned the Essanay Films studio, where she produced over 100 films. Stonehouse signed with Universal in 1916, starring and directing many of her projects. She worked with various studios, including Paramount, until she retired with the arrival of sound in films.
Death and Legacy
Ruth Stonehouse passed away on May 12, 1941, in Hollywood, California, due to a cerebral hemorrhage. Her contributions to the film industry during its early years are remembered, especially her role in managing and creating films as a pioneering woman in Hollywood.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Gilded Cage | July 7, 1915 | Marie |
| The Laird of McGillicuddy | January 23, 1913 | Ruth |
| The Masked Rider | May 7, 1919 | Ruth Chadwick |
| The Master Mystery | November 18, 1918 | Zita Dane |
| A Wolf Among Lambs | April 3, 1913 | Valeska |
| Dawn and Twilight | February 3, 1914 | Mary Waters |
| The Satin Woman | July 24, 1927 | Claire |
| The Hope | September 7, 1920 | Olive Waltburn |
| Love Never Dies | October 23, 1916 | Cecile, the Woman |
| The Saintly Sinner | February 26, 1917 | Jane Lee |
| Rosalind at Redgate | January 11, 1919 | Rosalind |
| Love Aflame | January 29, 1917 | Betty Mason |
| Ermine and Rhinestones | October 1, 1925 | Peggy Rice |
| The Devil’s Cage | May 26, 1928 | Marcel |
| When Soul Meets Soul | January 3, 1913 | 2nd Egyptian Lady |