Tonnage Martin Wolfkeil was an American actor best known for his roles in All Wet, Short Kilts, and The Poor Fish. He was born on March 21, 1900, in Hazelton, Pennsylvania, and passed away on September 10, 1962, in Butler, Ohio.
Personal and Family Life
Martin Wolfkeil was nicknamed “Tonnage” by the famous comedian Will Rogers during their time at Hal Roach Studios in the early 1920s. There is limited information available about his family life, but his contributions to the film industry left a lasting impression. His career flourished during the silent film era, which was a significant time for actors transitioning to talkies.
Career Highlights
Wolfkeil had a successful career as an actor in the 1920s, appearing in various silent films. He featured in several well-known productions that showcased his talent after gaining recognition for his unique nickname. Despite the challenges of the silent film era, he made a notable impact on the industry.
Death and Legacy
Martin Wolfkeil died on September 10, 1962, in Butler, Ohio. His contributions to early cinema are still remembered, especially for his work during the silent film era. The nickname “Tonnage” remains a distinctive reminder of his place in film history, as it reflects his personality and work experience with notable figures.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Oranges and Lemons | 1923-08-12 | Worker |
| Short Kilts | 1924-08-03 | McHungry’s Son |
| The Poor Fish | 1924-12-07 | Hefty Salesman |
| Sure-Mike! | 1925-05-23 | Mike |
| Wide Open Spaces | 1924-07-06 | (uncredited) |
| Brothers Under the Chin | 1924-04-13 | |
| Stolen Goods | 1924-06-29 | Shoplifter (uncredited) |
| All Wet | 1924-01-01 | Garage Mechanic |
| Accidental Accidents | 1924-11-09 | |
| Postage Due | 1924-02-17 | Postal Worker |