This uncommon vintage real photo postcard features English actress, Eleanor (Nellie) Souray (1880-1931). She was also known as Viscountess, or Lady Torrington. She was known for her roles in Edwardian musical comedies, pantomime, and light opera. Her sister, Maidie Souray was also an actress. Eleanor ran away from school to act in a touring company from Brighton. It was not long before she was starring in plays on the London stage. Among the plays she appeared in were “The Black Tulip” (1898), “The Blue Moon” (1905), and “The Merveilleuses” (1906). She was also a Gaiety Theatre girl. Eleanor was also an author, penning “Over the Garden Wall: A Story of Racing and Romance” (1924). In 1910, she wed George Master Byng, the 9th Viscount Torrington. They only knew each other three day before they were married. They shared a strong interest in horse racing. The pair divorced after World War l. She became more involved in horse racing and that interest led to her bankruptcy in 1930. In 1931 she committed suicide by gas. At the time of her death she was struggling with poverty and loneliness. This postcard’s photo was taken by Rita Martin, the celebrated female photographer known for her portraits of stage stars. The postcard was published by Rotophot (Giesen Bros.).This vintage postcard is in very good condition (see scans).
This cabinet card is available for purchase at my store, The History Peddler, for $18.00
Interested collectors may view the listing here:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/336473179442
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 
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