George Randolph Chester

George Randolph Chester Biography

George Randolph Chester (January 27, 1869 – February 26, 1924) was an American writer, screenwriter, film editor, and director, best known for his creation of the character 'Get-Rich-Quick Wallingford'. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Chester began his career as a reporter for the Cincinnati Enquirer. Encouraged by his first wife, Elizabeth, he started submitting short stories to publications like the Saturday Evening Post, gaining popularity for his humorous and satirical writing.

In 1908, Chester introduced the character J. Rufus Wallingford in the story collection Get-Rich-Quick Wallingford, depicting the adventures of a con artist. The stories were well-received and adapted into plays and films, cementing Chester's reputation in early 20th-century American literature and entertainment. His other notable works include The Making of Bobby Burnit (1909) and Five Thousand an Hour: How Johnny Gamble Won the Heiress (1912).

Chester's personal life saw significant changes; after divorcing his first wife, he married Lillian Josephine Hauser DeRimo in 1911. The couple collaborated professionally, co-writing stories and screenplays. Chester continued to write and adapt his works for the screen until his death from a heart attack on February 26, 1924, in New York City.

Trivia About George Randolph Chester

• Chester's 'Get-Rich-Quick Wallingford' stories were adapted into multiple films, including a 1916 silent film and a 1931 talkie titled New Adventures of Get Rich Quick Wallingford.
• He collaborated with his second wife, Lillian, on various writing projects, showcasing a unique husband-wife partnership in early Hollywood.
• Before focusing on fiction, Chester worked as a newspaper reporter, which influenced his sharp observational writing style.

Famous Quotes by George Randolph Chester

• "The man who wakes up and finds himself famous hasn't been asleep."
• "Opportunity knocks once at every man's door and then keeps on knocking."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was George Randolph Chester?

George Randolph Chester was an American writer and screenwriter, best known for creating the character 'Get-Rich-Quick Wallingford', featured in stories that satirized early 20th-century American business practices.

What is 'Get-Rich-Quick Wallingford'?

'Get-Rich-Quick Wallingford' is a series of stories centered around J. Rufus Wallingford, a charming con artist who schemes his way through various adventures, highlighting the gullibility and greed prevalent in society.

Did Chester's works get adapted into films?

Yes, several of Chester's works, including the 'Get-Rich-Quick Wallingford' series, were adapted into silent films and early talkies, reflecting his significant influence on early American cinema.

Related Literary Movements

George Randolph Chester's works are associated with early 20th-century American satire and realism, often critiquing societal norms and business ethics through humor and wit.

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