Thomas Dogget

Dogget, Thomas, one of the most distinguished comic actors of his time, was born in Castle-street, Dublin, about the middle of the 17th century. Few particulars are known concerning his life, which was spent chiefly in London. He had amassed considerable property at the time of his retirement from the stage, and he died at Eltham, Kent, 22nd September, 1721. An enthusiastic adherent of the House of Hanover, he bequeathed funds to furnish a waterman's badge and coat to be rowed for on the Thames on each 1st August, the anniversary of the Hanoverian accession. He is described as being a little, lively, smart man, remarkably prudent and careful of money. In company he was modest and cheerful, his natural intelligence of a very high order. "He, like other men, regarded not the honour of distinction in his profession as the sole reward of his merit, but rather his profession as a means to affluence."[286] Dibdin says: "He was the most original and strictest observer of nature of all the actors then living. He was ridiculous without impropriety; he had a different look for every different kind of humour; and though he was an excellent mimic, he imitated nothing but nature."

Sources

286. Players, Lives of the: John Galt. 2 vols. London, 1831.