Alice Harrison

Alice Harrison (c. 1849 – May 3, 1896) was a nineteenth-century American stage actress whose Broadway career spanned from 1868 to 1871. Her performances were concentrated primarily in musical comedy, and her stage work took her across multiple cities and theatrical companies throughout her career.

Harrison's Broadway credits included productions such as Lucretia Borgia, M.D., St. George and the Dragon!, The Forty Thieves, Rip Van Winkle, and The Golden Butterfly, among others. During her time in New York she performed at the Grand Opera House. The play Viva was written specifically for Harrison and her brother by playwright Leonard Grover. In July 1886 she appeared in the comedy The Maid of Belleville at the Star Theatre, performing alongside actor Frank David. The production's run was cut short when hot summer weather forced the theater to close, after which the company relocated to Chicago.

Beyond New York, Harrison performed with the California Western Stock Company in San Francisco and later with the Boston Museum company after departing New York. Over the course of her career she worked with numerous theatrical companies across the country.

During her New York performance run, Harrison resided at the Coleman House. In April 1879, while preparing to depart for an acting engagement in Boston, she received a visit from Nathan Washington. During that visit, a New York madame known as Birdie Bell, also identified as Marion Ward, attempted to murder Washington, firing at Harrison first. Harrison came under suspicion as a possible accomplice, in part because she left the city shortly after the incident, but she was ultimately found innocent of any involvement.

Harrison was diagnosed with Bright's Disease in 1892 and died of the illness, complicated by pneumonia, on May 3, 1896. Her remains were cremated, and her ashes were placed in a niche alongside those of her father.