full name: Joe Frank Cobb
born Nov. 7, 1916, in Shawnee, OK
died May 21, 2002, in Santa Ana, CA, of natural causes
Special note: Joe's full name as shown above is unusual, since most parents are more apt to name their boys "Joseph," with "Joe" being a nickname. However,
this is the way it appears on the contracts signed between Joe and the Roach studio, and these typically used the contractee's full name.
Another special note: Maltin & Bann give Joe's birthdate as Nov. 7, 1917. However, as indicated in the references of his Wikipedia page, the Oklahoma birth index puts it a
year earlier. Joe also mentions being 19 years old in the Jan. 24, 1936, letter mentioned below.
And still another special note: The media routinely referred to Joe as "Fatty," not only in newspapers and magazines, but also in the 1953 episode of "You Asked For
It." In the Our Gang series itself, this name seems to have never been used, with "Joe" being his name in the vast majority of them. Of course, not all of the silent-era
footage is available for viewing, so perhaps there was an inter-title or two that contained the nickname, but otherwise, the only film that ever used it was the Pathé Review
segment from 1925 called "Our Gang At Home." Another nickname that routinely turned up in early reviews of the Our Gang films was "Kewpie," though this one also seems to
have never been used in the actual series.
Though born in Shawnee, Joe was initially raised in Wewoka, OK. According to The Detroit Free Press of Aug. 19, 1928, his weight was normal until the age of 3, when his avoirdupois set
in. They also mention that he made his debut on the legitimate stage in "Tom Thumb's Wedding." It was a local theatre manager who, upon noting Joe's plump physique, recommended
that Joe's parents take him to Hollywood and get him into the movies.
1922
- In early September of this year, Joe visited the casting director's office at the Roach studio with his father, who brought along a letter of introduction (presumably from the
Wewoka theatre manager). The people from the casting department evidently jumped at the chance to put Joe into the movies, quickly giving him a screen test and signing him to a longterm
contract for 50 dollars a week. He started off as part of the Our Gang unit, but spent the first couple of weeks working with Snub Pollard. His family moved into a home in Culver City,
across the street from Roach transportation director Bob Davis. The two of them continued to live in Culver City well into old age.
1923
- Joe was signed to a new contract on March 3rd of this year, effective March 5, 1923, to March 4, 1924, and was now making 75 dollars a week.
- 9. The Champeen! (bit part)
- Jan. 28, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-9 - Our Gang series
- Filmed late August/September 1922. ©Dec. 16, 1922.
- A Tough Winter (supporting role as Marie's kid brother)
- Feb. 4, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-10 - Snub Pollard series
- Filmed Sep. 13 to 23, 1922. ©Dec. 16, 1922.
- 7. The Big Show! (supporting role)
- Feb. 25, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-7 - Our Gang series
- Filmed July 28 to Aug. 15, 1922, with added scenes Sep. 11 to 16, and Sep. 20 to 28, 1922, and retakes Jan. 10 to 11, 1923. ©Feb. 26, 1923.
- 11. A Pleasant Journey (small part)
- Mar. 18, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-11 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Mar. 25, 1923. Filmed Oct. 22 to 27, and Nov. 2 to 16, 1922. ©Feb. 26, 1923.
- 10. Boys To Board (featured role)
- Apr. 8, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-10 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Oct. 2 to Nov. 2, 1922. ©Mar. 30, 1923.
- 12. Giants Vs. Yanks (featured role: Squeaky)
- May 13, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-12 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Nov. 20 to Dec. 19, 1922, and Feb. 15, 1923. ©Apr. 27, 1923.
- 13. Back Stage (supporting role: Joe)
- June 3, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-13 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Dec. 15, 1922, to Jan. 9, 1923. ©June 6, 1923.
- 14. Dogs Of War! (supporting role)
- July 1, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-14 - Our Gang series
- Premiered June 10, 1923. Filmed Jan. 12 to Feb. 10, 1923, with retakes Feb. 20 to 23, and Apr. 11, 1923. ©July 19, 1923.
- 15. Lodge Night (featured role: Joe)
- July 29, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-15 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Feb. 12 to Mar. 3, 1923. ©Aug. 2, 1923.
- 18. July Days (supporting role)
- Aug. 26, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-18 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Apr. 12 to May 2, and May 31, 1923. ©Aug. 2, 1923.
- 20. No Noise (supporting role: Joe)
- Sep. 23, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-20 - Our Gang series
- Filmed June 1 to 20, 1923. ©Sep. 24, 1923.
- 17. Stage Fright (featured role)
- Oct. 21, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-17 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Mar. 17 to Apr. 11, 1923, with retakes June 21 to July 2, 1923. ©Nov. 9, 1923.
- 21. Derby Day (featured role: Joe)
- Nov. 18, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-21 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Mar. 11, July 18 to Aug. 13, 1923. ©Nov. 9, 1923.
- 19. Sunday Calm (supporting role: Joe)
- Dec. 16, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-19 - Our Gang series
- Filmed May 4 to 29, 1923, with retakes July 2 to 14, and Oct. 2, 1923. ©Dec. 24, 1923.
1924
- On March 5th of this year, the Roach studio exercised its option to renew Joe's contract, resulting in a salary increase to 100 dollars a week.
- 22. Tire Trouble (supporting role: Joe)
- Jan. 13, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-22 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Aug. 14 to Sep. 4, 1923. ©Dec. 24, 1923.
- 23. Big Business (featured role: Joe)
- Feb. 10, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-23 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Sep. 11 to 21, 1923. ©Jan. 26, 1924.
- 24. The Buccaneers (featured role: Joe)
- Mar. 9, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-24 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Sep. 28 to Oct. 24, and Oct. 28, 1923. ©Feb. 20, 1924.
- The Fraidy Cat (small part: one of the neighborhood boys)
- Mar. 30, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-45 - Hal Roach series with Charley Chase
- Premiered Mar. 10, 1924. Filmed Dec. 4 to 9, 1923. ©Mar. 20, 1924.
- 25. Seein' Things (supporting role)
- Apr. 6, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-25 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Oct. 25 to Nov. 7, and Dec. 19, 1923, and Jan. 7, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
- Girl Shy (bit part: boy in tailor shop)
- Apr. 20, 1924 - Lloyd/Pathé - 8 reels - Harold Lloyd feature
- ©Mar. 12, 1924. Joe appears with fellow gangster Jackie Condon.
- 26. Commencement Day (supporting role: Joe)
- May 4, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-26 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Nov. 9 to Dec. 6, 1923, Jan. 7 to 11, and Jan. 26, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
- Going To Congress (undetermined role)
- May 25, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. R-11 - Will Rogers series
- Filmed Jan. 19 to 30, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
- 28. Cradle Robbers (lead role: Joe)
- June 1, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-28 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Jan. 28 to Feb. 9, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
- Rupert Of Hee Haw (bit part: one of the great throng)
- June 8, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. L-11 - Stan Laurel series
- Also listed for June 24, 1924. Filmed Dec. 20 to 26, 1923, and Jan. 2 to 12, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
- Fast Black (undetermined role)
- June 15, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-57 - Fite series with Earl Mohan
- Filmed Mar. 18 to 25, and Apr. 8, 1924. ©May 28, 1924. Also featuring Billy Engle.
- Young Oldfield (small part: sneezing boy outside pharmacy)
- June 22, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-56 - Hal Roach series with Charley Chase
- According to Rob Stone's list, this was filmed Mar. 9 to 17, 1924. According to Anthony & Edmonds, it was filmed Mar. 10 to 17, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
- 29. Jubilo, Jr. (supporting role)
- June 29, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-29 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for July 29, 1924. Filmed Feb. 25 to Mar. 8, 1924. ©June 5, 1924.
- 27. It's A Bear (featured role: Joe)
- July 27, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-27 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Dec. 10 to 26, 1923, Jan. 2 to 7, Jan. 12, and Mar. 7 to 12, 1924. ©June 30, 1924.
- The Battling Orioles (small part: one of the neighborhood boys)
- Aug. 24, 1924 - Roach/Associated/Pathé - 5 reels - prod. T-2 - Glenn Tryon feature
- Also listed for Oct. 6, 1924. Filmed Feb. 18 to May 20, 1924, with retakes June 16 to 20, 1924. There was also an unspecified Glenn Tryon feature for which retakes were shot from May 22
to June 17, 1924, but it isn't clear whether it was this one or "The White Sheep" or some other film. ©Sep. 25, 1924.
- 30. High Society (supporting role: Joe)
- Aug. 24, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-30 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Mar. 24 to Apr. 5, 1924. ©May 29, 1924.
- 31. The Sun Down Limited (featured role: Joe)
- Sep. 21, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-31 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Apr. 21 to May 1, 1924. ©Aug. 2, 1924.
- 32. Every Man For Himself (supporting role: Joe Cobb)
- Oct. 19, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-32 - Our Gang series
- Filmed June 2 to 12, 1924. ©Oct. 2, 1924.
- Accidental Accidents (small part)
- Nov. 9, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-65 - Hal Roach series with Charley Chase
- Filmed May 5 to 9, 1924. ©Dec. 11, 1924.
- 16. Fast Company (supporting role: Joe)
- Nov. 16, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-16 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Mar. 5 to 15, 1923, with retakes June 13 to 21, 1924. ©Oct. 2, 1924.
- 33. The Mysterious Mystery! (featured role: Joe)
- Dec. 14, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-33 - Our Gang series
- Filmed June 30 to July 19, 1924, with retakes Sep. 9 and 12, 1924, and added scenes Sep. 13 and 15, 1924. ©Dec. 11, 1924.
- The Rubber-Neck (bit part)
- Dec. 28, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. F-17 - The Spat Family series
- Filmed June 23 to July 25, 1924, with retakes Sep. 2 to 4, 1924. ©Dec. 11, 1924.
1925
- In early March of this year, Joe's salary was raised to 200 dollars a week.
- On August 30th, the Long Beach Press-Telegram reported on the Meralta Theater booth operated at the fair in Downey by Pearl Merrill and Laura Peralta, founders of the theater, and both
later to be found playing parents in the Our Gang series. The previous day, Joe Cobb had occupied the booth, and various other kid stars were featured on other days.
- 34. The Big Town (featured role: Joe)
- Jan. 11, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-34 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Sep. 22 to Oct. 2, 1924. ©Dec. 9, 1924.
- 35. Circus Fever (featured role: Joe aka Joey)
- Feb. 8, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-35 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Oct. 20 to 25, and Nov. 1 to 4, 1924. ©Jan. 19, 1925.
- 36. Dog Days (featured role: Joe)
- Mar. 8, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-36 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Oct. 29 to Nov. 5, and Nov. 17 to 24, 1924. ©Mar. 5, 1925.
- 37. The Love Bug (featured role: Joe)
- Apr. 5, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-37 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Dec. 15 to 31, 1924, and possibly early Jan. 1925. ©Apr. 2, 1925.
- 39. Shootin' Injuns (featured role: Joe)
- May 3, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-39 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Jan. 19 to Feb. 5, 1925. ©Apr. 2, 1925.
- 38. Ask Grandma (supporting role: Joe)
- May 31, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-38 - Our Gang series
- Probably filmed in early Jan. 1925. ©Apr. 2, 1925.
- Riders Of The Kitchen Range (undetermined role)
- June 7, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-59 - "Hunky" Dory series
- Also listed for June 13, 1925. Filmed Apr. 2 to 5, 1924. ©May 29, 1925. Featuring Earl Mohan and Billy Engle.
- Twinkle, Twinkle (appearance)
- June 14, 1925 - Pathé - 1 reel - Grantland Rice Sportlight
- © May 8, 1925. Featuring the Our Gang kids.
- 40. Official Officers (featured role: Officer Joe)
- June 28, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-40 - Our Gang series
- Premiered June 10, 1925. Filmed Feb. 16 to 27, 1925. ©May 18, 1925.
- 42. Boys Will Be Joys (supporting role)
- July 26, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-42 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Apr. 13 to 24, 1925. ©July 6, 1925.
- Tame Men And Wild Women (undetermined role)
- Aug. 16, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. E-8 - Arthur Stone series
- Filmed July 22 to 31, 1924, with retakes Sep. 2 to 4, Oct. 9 to 10, 1924, and Jan. 3 to 9, 1925. ©June 23, 1925.
- 41. Mary, Queen of Tots (supporting role)
- Aug. 23, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-41 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Mar. 16 to Apr. 1, 1925. ©June 11, 1925.
- 44. Your Own Back Yard (supporting role: Joe)
- Sep. 27, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-2 - Our Gang series
- Filmed June 30 to July 16, and July 20 to 29, 1925. ©Aug. 28, 1925.
- 43. Better Movies (featured role)
- Nov. 1, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-1 - Our Gang series
- Filmed May 27 to June 16, 1925. Originally production A-43. ©Aug. 20, 1925.
- 'Our Gang' At Home (producer)
- Nov. 8, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 1/3 reel - Pathé Review series
- Our Gang segment filmed Mar. 1 to 14, 1925. ©Oct. 8, 1925. This short film was included in the Pathé Review, a weekly release typically consisting of three segments.
This particular release was no. 45 for the year 1925, and Our Gang are featured in the middle segment. The other two segments have no relation to the Roach studios. The first is an episode
of "American Wild Flowers" called "The Thistle," and is in color. The final segment is called "Forest Food Supplies."
- 45. One Wild Ride (supporting role: Joe)
- Dec. 6, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-3 - Our Gang series
- Filmed July 30 to Aug. 4, 1925. ©Nov. 6, 1925.
1926
- In early March of this year, Joe's salary was raised to 250 dollars a week.
- Debuting this year, and continuing into 1927, was an Our Gang comic strip called La Pandilla, which included Joe among the characters.
- 46. Good Cheer (featured role)
- Jan. 10, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-4 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Sep. 3 to 18, 1925. ©Jan. 23, 1926.
- 47. Buried Treasure (supporting role)
- Feb. 14, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-5 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Oct. 1 to 19, 1925. ©Jan. 23, 1926.
- 48. Monkey Business (supporting role)
- Mar. 21, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-6 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Oct. 30 to Nov. 18, 1925. ©Feb. 6, 1926.
- 49. Baby Clothes (featured role: Joe)
- Apr. 25, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-7 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Dec. 7 to 20, 1925, with retakes Jan. 11, 1926. ©Mar. 15, 1926.
- 50. Uncle Tom's Uncle (featured role: Joe)
- May 30, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-8 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Jan. 12 to Feb. 3, 1926. ©Apr. 28, 1926.
- 51. Thundering Fleas (supporting role)
- July 4, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-9 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for July 28, 1926. Filmed Mar. 8 to 25, 1926. ©May 26, 1926.
- 52. Shivering Spooks (featured role)
- Aug. 8, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-10 - Our Gang series
- Premiered July 4, 1926. Filmed Apr. 7 to 28, 1926. ©July 26, 1926.
- 53. The Fourth Alarm! (featured role: Joe)
- Sep. 12, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-11 - Our Gang series
- Filmed May 24 to June 14, 1926. ©Sep. 17, 1926.
- 54. War Feathers (featured role)
- Nov. 21, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-12 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Aug. 5 to Sep. 4, 1926. ©Dec. 13, 1926.
- 56. Telling Whoppers (featured role: Joe)
- Dec. 19, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-14 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Dec. 29, 1926. Filmed Sep. 10 to 18, 1926. ©Nov. 11, 1926.
- 45 Minutes From Hollywood (appearance)
- Dec. 26, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. H-3 - Glenn Tryon series
- Also featuring Stan Laurel, Oliver Hardy, Theda Bara and Our Gang. Filmed Oct. 27 to Nov. 8, 1925, with added scenes Nov. 16, 1925, and retakes Mar. 27, and Apr. 5 and 6, 1926.
©Dec. 13, 1926. A clip from "Thundering Fleas" is briefly seen in this film.
1927
- In early March of this year, Joe's salary was raised to 400 dollars a week.
- On June 30th, The Bulletin of San Francisco reported the following: "An announcement that will be greeted by thousands upon thousands of San Franciscans with joy is the fact that
the world's most celebrated kiddies from 'Our Gang' comedies that have proved such a tremendous hit of the screen, are to make their initial appearance in person on the stage at the
Orpheum Theater for the week beginning this Saturday matinee in a speedily written sketch called Acting Out. To Harry Weber, the well-known vaudeville producer, the laurels for bringing
these most beloved of all kiddies to the speaking stage. Included in the 'Gang' are Joe Cobb, the jolly fat boy; Farina, the screamingly funny colored boy; Jean Darling, the
beautiful youngster; Jackie Condon, Ray(sic) R. Smith, Mango, Farina's little sister, and Harry Spear. There is no question of a doubt that the Orpheum Theater will be one of the
most popular places in San Francisco this coming week."
- On July 1st, The San Francisco Examiner reported the following: "A reception is to be tendered 'Our Gang' Kiddies when they arrive in town this morning on the Lark from
Los Angeles to fulfill an engagement of one week only at the Orpheum beginning tomorrow afternoon. Each section of San Francisco will be represented by six or seven of 'kiddie groups' from
South of Market gang, North Beach, Chinatown, the Potrero, Ocean View, Sunset, Richmond and Fillmore. They will greet Joe Cobb, Farina, Jean Darling, Jackie Condon, Jay Smith, Mango and Harry Spear
when they step off the train from Los Angeles. City officials and theatrical representatives will be on hand to greet them. 'Our Gang' Kiddies have arranged to hold a reception on the stage
of the Orpheum after each matinee for all the youngsters attending the performances."
- On July 2nd, The San Francisco Examiner published an article about the Gang's visit to the city, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On July 4th, The Bulletin of San Francisco published an article about the Gang's visit to the city, an excerpt of which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On July 5th, The San Francisco Examiner published an article abuot the Gang's visit to the city, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On July 9th, the Gang began a week's engagement at the Orpheum Theatre in Oakland, CA. As they did across the bay in San Francisco, the Gang held a reception on the stage for all of the kids
attending the matinee.
- Also on July 9th, the Oakland Post-Enquirer (CA) devoted an entire page to articles about the Gang's visit to their city, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On July 10th, the Oakland Tribune reported that the Our Gang kids would soon make a personal appearance in that city to perform for some orphans.
- On July 12th, The San Francisco Examiner reported the following: "'Our Gang,' Hal Roach's beloved rascals, and the best known group of kiddies on the stage, will
appear at the Golden Gate in person next week. Farina, Joe Cobb, Harry Spear, Jackie Condon, Jean Darling, Jay R. Smith and Mango, the whole gang, whose funny antics in the 'Our Gang'
comedies have made you laugh, will be on hand. For five weeks the kiddies have a vacation from the movie lot and Hal Roach and their director, Robert McGowan, decided it would be a great idea to let
the gang take a whirl at vaudeville. For the past two weeks their engagements have broken records and the Golden Gate is the third week of the five that they are permitted to play. The third part of
the gang's act and the part that proves so popular to children is a reception on the stage following every matinee except Sunday when the children in the audience are permitted to come upon the
stage and meet the gang."
- On July 22nd, the Los Angeles Illustrated Daily News reported the following: "'Our Gang,' with Farina, Joe Cobb and other funmakers in Hal Roach comedies, will top the
new bill which comes to the Orpheum Sunday (the 24th). 'Our Gang' will appear in person for the first time in Los Angeles in a specially written offering entitled 'Acting
Out.'...'Our Gang' will not only offer their act, but will hold a reception after each matinee for the children in the audience."
- On July 24th, the Gang began a one-week engagement at the Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles. As The Los Angeles Record of the 21st reported: "Every youngster in Los Angeles has
seen the 'Our Gang Comedy Kiddies' on the screen and has probably wished many times that he could meet them. Now this wish is to be granted, for next week when the famous Hal Roach
aggregation of youthful funmakers makes its bow in person at the Orpheum, it will hold a reception every afternoon immediately following the last act in the foyer of the Orpheum. Every child
attending will have a chance to shake hands with Farina, Joe Cobb and the other 'kids' of the 'Gang.'"
- Around this time, the Our Gang kids, as well as Laurel & Hardy, were sent to the TeeVee studio to do an experimental broadcast.
- 57. Bring Home The Turkey (supporting role)
- Jan. 16, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-15 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Sep. 29 to Oct. 15, 1926. ©Jan. 14, 1927.
- 55. Seeing The World (supporting role)
- Feb. 13, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-13 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Oct. 29 to Nov. 15, 1926. European footage shot July and Aug. 1926. ©Jan. 14, 1927.
- 58. Ten Years Old (lead role: Joe)
- Mar. 13, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-16 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Nov. 24 to Dec. 14, 1926. ©Feb. 14, 1927.
- 59. Love My Dog (supporting role)
- Apr. 10, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-17 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Apr. 17, 1927. Filmed Dec. 21, 1926, to Jan. 4, 1927. ©Apr. 11, 1927.
- 60. Tired Business Men (lead role: Joe)
- May 22, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-18 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for May 15, 1927, and May 21, 1927. Filmed Jan. 18 to Feb. 3, 1927. ©Apr. 11, 1927.
- 61. Baby Brother (lead role: Joe aka Joseph)
- June 26, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-19 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Feb. 17 to Mar. 14, 1927. ©May 18, 1927.
- 64. The Glorious Fourth (featured role: Joe)
- July 31, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-22 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for June 26, 1927, and July 30, 1927. Filmed May 10 to 21, 1927. ©July 22, 1927.
- 63. Olympic Games (supporting role: Joe)
- Sep. 11, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-21 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Sep. 10, 1927. Filmed Apr. 22 to May 6, 1927. ©July 8, 1927.
- 67. Yale Vs. Harvard (featured role: Joe)
- Sep. 24, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-1 - Our Gang series
- Filmed June 13 to 24, 1927. ©Aug. 17, 1927.
- 68. The Old Wallop (featured role: Joe)
- Oct. 22, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-2 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Aug. 8 to 20, 1927. ©Oct. 22, 1927.
- 62. Chicken Feed (supporting role)
- Nov. 6, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-20 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Mar. 28 to Apr. 15, 1927. ©June 9, 1927.
- 69. Heebee Jeebees (featured role)
- Nov. 19, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-3 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Nov. 29, 1927. Filmed Aug. 29 to Sep. 13, and Sep. 30, 1927. ©Nov. 1, 1927.
- 70. Dog Heaven (lead role: Joe)
- Dec. 17, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-4 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Sep. 15 to Oct. 13, 1927, with retakes Nov. 1, 1927. ©Nov. 26, 1929.
1928
- By January of this year, Bishop's Jelly Joe's jelly beans came into existence. An arrangement was made for Joe Cobb's image to be used in the advertisements.
- In early March, Joe's salary was raised to 500 dollars a week.
- On March 24th, more than 60 of Hollywood's screen children attended the "Screen Kiddies Premiere" of Charlie Chaplin's "The Circus" at Grauman's Chinese
Theater. Among those invited were the nine kids and one dog from the 'Our Gang' series.
- Sometime during the summer, the Our Gang kids were visited at the studio by Frances Juliet Douglas of The Piqua Daily Call (OH), who described her meeting with them in an article
dated August 29th. They were taking publicity stills in preparation for their upcoming cross-country tour. She says that Joe "is affable and courteous and quite willing to talk - to
tell you anything you want to know."
- On August 14th, the Our Gang kids departed Los Angeles on the California Limited for a personal appearance tour, which was scheduled to take them to Chicago, Detroit, New York, Newark, Boston,
St. Louis and other cities, all on the Balaban & Katz Loop. This turned out to be not quite true, though, as they never made it to Newark or Boston. On their way east, they briefly stopped at
various locations to greet their fans. One of these was a 3 p.m. stop on this day at San Bernardino.
- Also on August 14th, the Gang's train passed through Needles, CA, at 10:15 p.m. As The Needles Nugget of August 17th put it: "These famous young folks have many ardent
friends and admirers in our town and some of them tried to catch a glimpse of the celebrities while the train stopped, but the 'Gang' had already retired."
- On August 15th, the Gang's train stopped in Albuquerque, NM. The Albuquerque Journal of the following day reported the following: "A crowd of several hundred people, adults
and children, was on hand at the Santa Fe station to greet the little actors. While here the young stars renewed their acquaintance with Ershel Redd, an Albuquerque boy who took part with them in
two comedies at the studio at Culver City, Calif., last spring. Young Redd lives at 206 South Broadway. Ray Coffin, director of publicity of the Hal Roach studios, who was in charge of the children,
found himself in the role of peacemaker a short distance west of Albuquerque when Harry Spears(sic), 6 years old, and Farina, 7-year-old colored boy, got into a fight. 'Yeh,
Farina got a black eye, but it didn't show up,' said Joe 'Fatty' Cobb, 11, in telling of the trouble. Mayor Clyde Tingley introduced 'Our Gang' and Mr. Coffin to the fans
from the platform of the train...After the youngsters had been introduced and Mr. Coffin had made a short talk about them, they were urged to take a little exercise on the brickwalk, but the
suggestion didn't meet with the approval of 'Fatty.' 'Naw, I want to eat,' he objected and made his way toward the diner, where he waited to be served."
- On August 16th, the Gang's train passed through Hutchinson, KS. As The Hutchinson News reported the previous day: "What ho! 'Our Gang' is going through
tomorrow...They will be through at 4:30 sharp on the Santa Fe California Limited, headed for Detroit...Surely one of them will condescend to step out on the observation platform and give the
kiddies of Hutchinson a wave. At any rate Roy Coffin, Hal Roach's publicity man, who is accompanying them, will be sure to be there - publicity men always are."
- Also on August 16th, the Gang's train passed through Emporia, KS, at 7:20 p.m. As The Emporia Daily Gazette reported the following day: (The Our Gang kids) "made
a personal appearance Thursday night before a full house at the Santa Fe station, with the rear platform of the California Limited for a stage. Fully half an hour before the train was due, Emporia
movie fans of all ages began to line up under the station pillars, and by the time the huge engine roared by, the crowd had become a swarming mob of 3,000 admirers, anxious to meet informally the
youthful stars...The gang evidently was expecting to meet their Emporia friends for when the train stopped, they were on the observation platform ready to be introduced...As the fans moved to the
platform, the Gang smiled approvingly at the cheers and handclaps they received...The introductions were made by Ray Coffin...who presented each in turn." About Joe, it says that he
"hitched up his belt, grasped the rail with his fat pudgy hands, and bowed. Cobb thinks much of his name sake Ty Cobb, and he goes to every baseball game in Los Angeles. When he is working on
the lot, and has a rest period he sits with his ears glued to a radio set waiting for the big league hits and runs. Cobb laboriously autographed a book for an Emporian and gladly told fans that his
age was 11, his weight 115, and he was not a matrimonial prospect as yet."
- Also on August 16th, the Gang's train stopped at the Union Station in Kansas City, MO, at 10:30 p.m. for half an hour. The Kansas City Post of the previous day reported the
following: "I have a wire from their publicity director this morning. 'Will shoot kids immediately on arrival up to lobby of the station and they are yours to do as you will for the
next thirty minutes.' A platform will be standing at the curb of the station plaza. The Gang will hop up there and will be plainly seen by the crowd. The platform will be lighted and the Gang
will do its stuff in the way of meeting their gang of fans in Kansas City. Motion pictures of the crowd and the gang, and photographs of both will be taken. The motion pictures will be shown at
Loew's Midland." On the 16th, the Kansas City Journal had this to say: "Harry Kessel, popular community song leader and representative of the Feist Publishing company, will
be master of ceremonies at the Union station at 10:30 o'clock tonight when Our Gang arrives from Hollywood for a half hour's visit with Kansas City fans. He will lead the crowd in
singing Hail, Hail, Our Gang's All Here and popular songs of the day. He also will introduce each of the Hal Roach gangsters. Dick O'Kane will accompany on the piano, which will be on the
station plaza platform constructed for the gang." The following day, the Kansas City Journal published an article about the visit, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On August 17th, the Kansas City Post reported the following: "Chicago, quiet little city on the shores of Lake Michigan, today was all set to quell a riot when a certain Santa
Fe train from Kansas City arrived there at noon. A Chicago newspaper, according to a message received by The Post today, had been 'reliably informed' a mob had attacked the train upon its
arrival here at 10:30 o'clock last night and the Santa Fe officials had found it necessary to call out police reserves to break up the riot. The newspaper was quite serious. Moreover, the
Chicago newspaper informed The Post that in view of last night's 'riot' in Kansas City, the railroad officials were taking no chances and had requested police protection for the train
upon its arrival there today...It was a well ordered reception the little movie stars were accorded here last night by 'their public' - possibly the greatest reception ever given any
movie star here - and the police were there to aid in keeping order and protecting the thousands of small Kansas Cityans who were on hand to greet Our Gang. Exaggerated reports of last
night's enthusiastic reception here probably were forwarded to Chicago by unknowing passengers on the train."
- Also on August 17th, the Gang's train arrived in Chicago, where they would perform for one week at the Chicago Theater starting the next day. On the 18th, the Chicago Daily Tribune
reported the following: "All of 'Our Gang' of the movies, who arrived yesterday on the Santa Fe for an appearance at the Chicago theater, were special guests at a party in the
Hotel Sherman bungalow yesterday...Fatty Cobb and Harry Spear, the 'mean guy' with the freckles and the frown, were interested in the mechanics of the phonograph." On August 19th, this
same paper corrected themselves, stating that the party took place at the Morrison Hotel.
- On August 18th, the Our Gang kids began performing at the Chicago Theater. The Forest Park Review that day explained that the kids "will come down upon the Chicago theater for their
first and only appearance, their manager, Hal Roach, having notified Balaban & Katz, that the proximity of school days in Hollywood would make engagements at the Tivoli and Uptown theaters
impossible."
- On August 20th, the Chicago Daily Tribune had this say about the Gang's stage show: "This will probably be a record week at the Chicago, what with all the mammas and papas
in town bringing their kids to see the 'Our Gang' kids. And it's no wonder, for Hal Roach's famous youngsters are as funny and lovable in this personal appearance as they have been
on the screen. It's refreshing to learn that working under Kleig lights has not spoiled these children and that the studio atmosphere, instead of taking the bloom off of their childish charm,
has been conducive to preserving it. They are appealingly natural and unself-conscious, which is more than can be said for the infant prodigies of the stage. Here's hoping their tour
across the country will be a merry and successful one."
- On August 24th, The St. Joseph News-Press (IL) reported the following: "By special arrangement with Hal Roach and M. G. M., Publix Theaters Corporation are
presenting the original members of Our Gang comedies. The popular kids...are making personal appearances in the de luxe picture houses of both Publix and Loew key city theaters. Our Gang is now
appearing in Chicago theaters. The attraction has drawn considerable crowds in all the theaters they have played so far."
- On August 25th, the Gang arrived in Detroit in the morning, and did their first performances at the Michigan Theater that day.
- On August 26th, The Detroit Free Press reported the following: "The Our Gang Kids have been looking over some of the sketches in the WCX-Our Gang contest, and they were so
pleased with them that they have asked The Free Press to extend the time limit for 12 hours so that the last minute entrants will also have a chance. So the contest will close at 12 o'clock
tomorrow instead of midnight tonight. Your drawing of Pete, the famous dog mascot of the Our Gang Kids must be in the editors hands before noon Monday (the 27th), if it is to be considered
for ticket prizes to see the Our Gang Comedy Kids show at the Michigan this week. The Our Gang Kids will judge the sketches, you know, at the WCX studio Monday afternoon during Skeezix Time
at 5:30 o'clock, and you'll hear them over the air."
- On August 27th, The Detroit Free Press reported the following in an article about the zoo that had just opened in Detroit: "The children comprising the 'Our Gang' troupe
of movie actors are to be special guests of the zoo management today at 10:30. The elephant and the camel will be ready for them to ride and the other animals have been instructed to show their
best behavior for the occasion."
- Also on August 27th, the Our Gang kids put in a personal appearance at the Franklin street settlement in Detroit. This according to The Detroit Free Press of September 2nd.
- Also on August 27th, The Detroit Free Press reported the following: "The Our Gang Comedy Kids and their famous mascot Pete will announce the winners of the WCX-Our Gang
contest over WCX during the Skeezix Hour this evening at 5:30. Tune in! Fatty, Farina, Freckles, Wheezer, Jean Darling, Mary Ann Jackson and Pete - the whole gang - who are
appearing on the Michigan stage this week, will be there. Because an extra show has been added to the theater bill the 'kids' will greet the radio audience first direct from the Michigan
stage, where microphones will be installed to pick up their part of the theater's program. Later, appearing with Chief Neal Tomy in the special radio studio back stage, they will announce the
contest winners." This contest was open to kids 15 and under. Skeezix Time was a local program in Detroit based on the character from the popular comic strip Gasoline Alley. The
following day, The Detroit Free Press reported the following about the contest: "Jean Darling, Mary Ann Jackson, Wheezer, Fatty, Freckles, Farina and 'Pete' himself,
announced the awards over WCX at Skeezix Time last night. They were gathered with 'Chief' Tomy, Dorothy and Loraine in the studio above the stage at the Michigan theater, where they
are appearing before record crowds this week. Skeezix Time was transferred to the theater because Our Gang was scheduled for a stage appearance at 5:30 o'clock. After the opening
songs the stage microphones were turned on and the radio audience heard the members introduced to the visible crowd which packed every nook and corner of the theater. Then the scene was shifted
back to the studio for the birthday party and to await the coming of the gang. It was the kiddies' first appearance before the 'mike' and Fatty was a bit suspicious. It had to be
explained to him before he was willing to say a word. It was a great occasion for the gang as well as for the thousands of their small friends who listened in." The birthday party mentioned in
this article was a regular feature on the radio show.
- Also on August 27th, The Detroit Free Press had this to say about the Gang's stage show: "Our Gang, those inimitable comedy kids who are here in person, are sure to be a
tremendous drawing card, this week. They are the most natural acting and vivacious youngsters imaginable and the fun and play they get out of their appearance on the stage shows how little all
their popularity has spoiled them. 'Fatty' and 'Freckles' and 'Pete' the dog, and all the rest of the gang are even more appealing in real life than on the screen."
- On August 28th, The Detroit Free Press reported the following: "All Saturday and Sunday records of the Michigan theater were shattered last week-end! The Our Gang comedy
kids, in their first stage appearance east of Hollywood, are proving themselves the most sensational theatrical attraction in the last ten years, according to local showmen. The Michigan theater
filled up at noon Saturday (the 25th) and remained filled until close to midnight. Then it repeated that record Sunday. The records established by Mae Murray, Paul Whiteman, Vincent Lopez,
John Philip Sousa, Gertrude Ederle were exceeded so far that it is probable the Our Gangsters will forever be the Michigan's greatest attraction. Extra shows are being planned for around 5 p.m.
each day during the week. In Chicago the children appeared at 35 shows during the week - five each day - and set an almost unbelievable record for attendance."
- On August 29th, The Border Cities Star of Windsor, Ontario, reported on the visit to their city the previous day by Joe Cobb, Mary Ann Jackson and Harry Spear. Joe expressed a wish to
have a souvenir pennant from Windsor. They visited the offices of the Star. "Fatty - rather Joe Cobb, who says he wrote to Ty Cobb and didn't get an answer - ran untethered
in the composing room at The Star yesterday, operating the linotype with piano technique and registering dissatisfaction when an operator set his name 'Fatty' on a slug instead of 'Joe
Cobb.' And he indicated that his avoirdupois is legitimate and unfaked." On the topic of someday returning to Windsor, Joe had this to say: "I want some more of those slugs with
my name on - and not Fatty."
- On September 1st, the Gang arrived in Cleveland, and did their first performances at the State Theater that day. The kids also got to view a special screening of the locally made Our Gang film
featuring their Cleveland lookalikes.
- Also on September 1st, radio listings for Detroit's WBMH indicated that they were broadcasting a program called "Our Gang" from 9:00 to 9:30pm and again from 11:15pm to midnight.
The Gang was no longer in Detroit by this evening, so if these programs had anything to do with them, then they must have been pre-recorded.
- On September 2nd, the Cleveland Plain Dealer published an article about Our Gang, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- Also on September 2nd, the Muskogee Daily Phoenix (OK) reported the following: "'Our Gang' is touring the country and making personal appearances in the large
cities. They travel in a specially equipped Pullman coach with sound-proof walls, unbreakable furniture and all kinds of shock absorbers. This is their first glimpse of the country outside of
California."
- On September 5th, at noon, Joe was the guest of the Seckatary Hawkins Club at an informal reception in the Boys' Department of the W. B. Davis company. All Cleveland boys were invited to
come and meet him. The following day, the Cleveland Plain Dealer reported the following: "Several hundred of Cleveland's younger citizens cheered plump Joe Cobb, distinguished
member of 'Our Gang,' yesterday when he made a personal appearance in the boys' furnishing department of the W. B. Davis Co., 327 Euclid Avenue. 'He looks just like his
pictures!' they approved. They clapped loudly when Joe recited a touching poem about: 'I know how dirt lands on my face and hands, But how does it get on my neck?' Joe and
his father, who also spoke, came up on the freight elevator - not because of Joe's size exactly. The boys were just so enthusiastic that they wouldn't let him by any other way."
- Also on September 5th, International News Service reported the following out of Cleveland: "'Our Gang,' Hal Roach's well known group of child movie performers, may
have to discontinue their performances in vaudeville here, else the theatre management will be prosecuted for violation of the Ohio child labor laws. Miss Lauretta P. Bean, of the state industrial
commission, has sworn out an affidavit charging George Drummond, theatre manager, with violating the law which prohibits children under 14 years from appearing on the stage, it became known today.
The juvenile troupe arrived here Sunday from Hollywood and had been booked to play the rest of the week." Slight correction: the Gang had arrived on Saturday. The Associated Press
reported Beam as saying that Drummond had "agreed to appear for arraignment before a justice of the peace today."
- On September 7th, the Gang spent their last night in Cleveland. A few days later, on September 11th, the Cleveland Plain Dealer published the following anecdote from Eleanor Clarage:
"And speaking of Maurice Spitalny...the writer and several of her friends had tried all last week to get into the State to see Hal Roach's gang in the flesh, but all to no avail. Lines
stood out almost to 14th Street every time we went near the theater, and at last we gave it up as a bad job. Then, Friday night (the 7th), a few of us wandered into the Statler for dinner
and got a table over in a quiet corner, next to a table evidently decorated for a dinner party, with floral centerpiece, fancy melons ready at each plate and so on. We wondered idly what kind of a
party it was going to be, and before we had the words out of our mouths, Mr. and Mrs. Russell Keith were coming into the dining room with 'Our Gang' and their mamas in tow, with a curious
crowd pushing around the doorway stretching their necks to get a better look at them. This, after we had been turned away from the theater all week! Fate is sometimes almost too good to
one." She then describes her impressions of each kid, with this to say about Joe: "Joe...seems to be the most urbane of the lot. He was perfectly at ease and talked vivaciously to
Mrs. Keith." She also mentions Joe giving Maurice Spitalny "ringing applause" when he leads his orchestra into "Hail, Hail, the Gang's All Here."
- On September 8th, the Gang returned to Chicago, this time to perform at the Norshore Theater for six days. The previous day, the Cook County Herald of Arlington Heights, IL, reported the
following: "Hal Roach's comedy rascals, having broken every existing record for attendance at the Chicago theater, have been prevailed upon by Balaban & Katz to return to Chicago
for an engagement at the Norshore theater starting Saturday, Sept. 8. The 'Gang' was scheduled for just one week in each city but by schedules it was found possible to return for six days
between their Cleveland and New York appearances. The demands of North Shore theatergoers who failed to see the child stars during their recent engagement were so insistent that Balaban & Katz
have decided to present them at the Norshore theater, due to its excellent transportation facilities...To accommodate the throngs who failed to see the 'Gang' at the Chicago theater,
Balaban & Katz have announced special matinee performances at the Norshore theater daily during the six day engagement. The program offered by the child-stars will be the same as that
presented downtown."
- On September 14th, the Cleveland Plain Dealer (OH) reported the following: "George Dumond, manager of Loew's State Theater, yesterday was fined $25 and costs in
each for four cases charging him with violation of the child labor laws in connection with the appearance here of Hal Roach's 'Our Gang.' Justice of the Peace Myron J. Penty dropped two
similar additional cases pending against Dumond on his appearance yesterday."
- On September 15th, the Daily News of New York reported the following: "There'll be great commotion at Grand Central terminal today! Won't there, though!
'Our Gang' arrives. Seven members, counting Pete, the dog who has the black ring around his eye. They are traveling in movie splendor, all dressed up in their Saturday and Sunday clothes.
Pete, Fatty Joe Cobb, Freckles Harry Spear, Jean Darling, Mary Ann Jackson, Wheezer and last, but certainly not least Master Alan Hoskins, known throughout the world as Farina. Hal Roach, who
started 'Our Gang' on its road to fame just ten years ago, will be at the station to meet the Twentieth Century. Also, Maj. Edward Bowes, managing director of the Capitol theatre, where the
youngsters will make their first personal appearance this afternoon. The starlets together with their mammas, daddies, or whichever grown up members of their respective families are accompanying
them, will journey from the train straight to the suites at the Park Central hotel and get washed up and ready for their Capitol engagement. Miss Fern Carter, Our Gang's teacher, accompanies
them as well. We're assured that the parent committee will keep their charges away from night clubs and escort them back to the coast at the end of next week all set to resume work on their
next season's output of two-reelers."
- On September 19th, the Standard Union of Brooklyn reported the following about the Gang's appearance at the Capitol: "At least as amusing as 'The Cameraman' for the
brief time they're on stage are Hal Roach's pint-size gangsters...They have a war episode to go through, and they do so with great good will, looking no bigger than grasshoppers. They
are most unaffected kids. Yesterday afternoon down in a locker room under the stage Miss Jennie Madden, the wardrobe mistress, gave them a party. Ice cream and small cakes. They enjoyed it
wholeheartedly. Farina was busy telling about their trip to Chinatown yesterday. Joe Cobb, the fat boy, discussed the relative merits of Chop Suey and Chow Mein. Didn't know the difference,
but knew he didn't like Chop Suey. They'll be in Brooklyn next week, incidentally, at Loew's Metropolitan." The Standard Union of September 24th also mentioned the party
under the stage, but gave Miss Madden's first name as Minnie. It also mentioned that Jean Darling wasn't feeling well, so Joe was able to have two portions.
- Also on September 19th, The Brooklyn Daily Times published a column by Elsie Jean, which apparently was aimed at kids. She tells her readers that all of the Our Gang kids had joined her
Happy Times Club, which also included many local children among its members. On September 21st, she announced that 50 Happy Timers would be chosen to be guests of the Our Gang kids the following
Tuesday (the 25th) at the Metropolitan Theatre in Brooklyn.
- On September 21st, the Gang visited the New York city hall. As The Washington Herald described it the following day: "Joe Cobb, the fat boy, was dolled up to represent Herbert
Hoover, while Harry Spear impersonated Governor Smith. Jean Darling adopted the role of Texas Guinan, while Marie(sic) Jackson carried padlocks in her role of Mrs. Mabel Willebrandt. The
gang, now playing at local theaters, were received by Mayor Walker, who shook hands all around." Herbert Hoover and Al Smith, incidentally, were the two major party presidential candidates in
the current election, which was ultimately won by Hoover.
- On September 23rd, the Gang talked over the radio from station WEAF, introduced by Maj. Edward Bowes, managing director of the Capitol. This was an NBC musical series called Major Bowes'
Family, which regularly broadcasted from the Capitol Theatre.
- On Septebmer 24th, The Brooklyn Citizen published an article on the Gang's arrival in Brooklyn, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- Also on September 24th, the Standard Union of Brooklyn reported the following: "Joe Cobb still talks about Chinatown and dissertates with authority on the relative merits of
Chow Mein and Chop Suey." Also: "The youngsters have finished a busy week, what with being guests of the Mayor at City Hall, and with doing their turns and sightseeing, but they
don't have all the luck some of the youngest fans may imagine, for despite their ability to duck school on the screen, they're taking their lessons, grand tour or no grand tour. At least
Joe Cobb and Farina are. They are the only ones old enough. Their term opened Sept. 11, the official beginning of the school year in California. Their teacher, principal and dean, Fern Carter, is
strict, and Joe Cobb and Farina labor over their reading, writing, spelling, English, geography and arithmetic with the knowledge they'll get extra work if they slip up. Both passed their
examinations last June with good marks. They also passed psychological tests, although Joe Cobb is reported to have breathed something that sounded like 'baloney,' when asked of his opinion
on putting square pegs into round holes."
- Also on September 24th, the Cleveland Plain Dealer (OH) reported the following: "From the Union Trust Teller the following is clipped: 'The Main Street
Meditator of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, after devoting a couple of paragraphs to the youngsters who took Cleveland and the State Theater by storm, concludes with the frantic query: "And
oh, dear, dear - do they have the good sense to put their money in the bank while it's still rolling in?"' To a certain extent, we can satisfy her worries along this line by
telling her that during their stay here in Cleveland, 'Our Gang' visited our juniors' department and savings accounts were opened for each one of them..."
- Also on September 24th, The Boston Globe (MA) published an article on the Gang's school lessons while on the movie lot, stating that these lessons were continuing during
their personal appearance tour. It mentions that Joe was taking lessons suitable for the 7th grade.
- On September 25th, The Brooklyn Citizen reported the following: "Adult interest in 'Our Gang' is as great as the kids'. This was demonstrated at Loew's
Metropolitan last night when the shouts of their elders drowned those of the youngsters accompanying them. The familiar faces stood in reality stronger than they do in the pictures. There was the
same action seen, but it appeared more realistic as the little fellows hopped about the stage. Joe Carr(sic) was there, fat and saucy. Farina, too, and Mary Ann Jackson, and above all Pete,
the dog. 'Our Gang' gave four performances yesterday to capacity houses, and were tired little rascals when they returned to their quarters in Leverich Towers."
- On September 26th, The Brooklyn Citizen reported that the Gang were guests of honor the previous night at the Hotel Leverich Towers. The article describes the Gang's act this
way: "They presented a war play, in which Heavyweight Joe is the spy, Farina is the valiant soldier, who fights a terrible sword duel with Joe, the spy; Beautiful Jean is the Red Cross
nurse, Mary Ann is another spy, Harry Spear is a soldier, Wheezer is the general of the army who comes riding in on a hobby horse, which is his prancing white steed and Pete, the dog, is also a
soldier."
- Also on September 26th, The Brooklyn Daily Eagle reported the following: "'Freckles,' the 65-pound sorrel-topped member of the well-known band of
back-alley screen stars dubbed 'Our Gang,' won the titular leadership of the 'gang' in a fistic encounter with 'Tubby,' 115 pounds, atop the Leverich Towers Hotel
yesterday. Eddie Forbes, who refereed the Tunney-Heeney battle, was to referee this bout. With the other members of the gang looking on and movie cameras set to record the latest 'Battle of
the Century' - for inclusion in some future screen comedy - Forbes called the contestants to the center of the improvised ring and gave instructions. At the conclusion of this formality
the referee turned to address some one at the ringside. A sharp 'smack' snapped his attention back to the prospective battlers. Tubby was already stretched flat on the canvas and Freckles
was bowing grandly to the audience. Tubby complained later that he was floored by a foul blow while he wasn't looking. A return bout should be in prospect."
- Also on September 26th, The Brooklyn Daily Times published an article about the Gang, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On September 27th, the Standard Union of Brooklyn published an article about the Gang, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On September 29th, The St. Louis Star reported on the Gang's upcoming engagement at Loew's State Theater, mentioning that they "shattered every record at the Capitol Theater
in New York."
- On September 30th, the Sunday News of New York reported the following: "Hal Roach's 'Our Gang' kiddies will visit thirty-one Loew theatres tomorrow, Tuesday, and
Wednesday, making ten personal appearances a day." The Kansas City American of October 11th elaborated by saying: "Little time is allotted for their individual house howtow,
just long enough to be whisked in for an introduction from the stage or pit and out." Ultimately, the Gang was scheduled to visit 32 theaters.
- On October 1st, the Gang began three days of whirlwind activity, making personal appearances at 32 different theaters. On this day, they made eleven stops, all in Manhattan and all Loew's
theatres. They were scheduled to be at the Sheridan at 1:00 p.m., the Greeley Square at 1:45 p.m., the Lincoln at 2:30 p.m., the 83rd Street at 3:15 p.m., the 7th Ave. at 4:00
p.m., and the Victoria at 4:30 p.m. After this was a 3-and-a-half hour break for dinner. Then they appeared at the Canal at 8:00 p.m., the Delancey at 8:30 p.m., the Avenue
B at 9:15 p.m., the Commodore also at 9:15 p.m. (these times were approximations), and the American at 10:00 p.m.
- On October 2nd, the United Press reported the following out of Brooklyn: "Ray Coffin, manager of members of the 'Our Gang' comedies, making a personal appearance at a
theatre here, was arrested here because the 'gang' 'worked' Sunday (Sep. 30th). Shortly after they left the stage, after their Sunday performance, Coffin was handed a
summons charging him with violation of a penal law which requires a permit for the appearance of children under 16. When they appeared again at night he was handed another."
- Also on October 2nd, the Gang moved their whirlwind tour to the Loew's theaters of the Bronx, this time making appearances at nine of them. They were scheduled to be at the Victory at
1:00 p.m., the Burland at 1:45 p.m., the Spooner at 2:30 p.m., the Elsmere at 3:15 p.m., and the Burnside at 4:00 p.m. After this, they took a four-hour break for dinner.
Then they moved on to the National at 8:00 p.m., the Boulevard at 8:45 p.m., the Grand at 9:30 p.m., and the Fairmount at 10:00 p.m.
- On October 3rd, the Gang finished off their whirlwind tour of New York City theaters, this time visiting 12 Loew's theaters in Brooklyn and Queens. The Brooklyn Daily Eagle of
October 1st and the Standard Union of October 2nd each filled in the following details. Their schedule initially had them as luncheon guests of Major Benjamin H. Namm, president of the
Namm's department store. This took place in the Mirror Room on the third floor. At noon, they were to make a personal appearance in the toy department of the store. As the Standard Union
reported, "The gang has been touring the theatres throughout the East, but their appearance at Namm's marks their first appearance off the stage." (A perusal of this page, though,
shows that this isn't quite true.) Their tour of theaters was to begin in Brooklyn with the Brevoort at 1:00 p.m., followed by the Bedford at 1:30 p.m., the Kameo at 2:15 p.m.,
the Broadway at 3:00 p.m., the Gates at 3:30 p.m., the Premier at 4:15 p.m., and the Palace at 4:30 p.m. After this, they took a three-and-a-half break for dinner, and
then proceeded to Queens, appearing at the Willard in Woodhaven at 8:00 p.m., the Hillside in Jamaica at 8:45 p.m., the Prospect in Flushing at 9:30 p.m., the Plaza in Corona at
10:00 p.m., and the Woodside in Woodside at 10:30 p.m.
- Also on October 3rd, the Standard Union of Brooklyn published an article on Ray Coffin, who had been arrested for having the kids work on a Sunday. It can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On October 5th, the Standard Union of Brooklyn reported the following: "Hal Roach's 'Our Gang' bade Brooklyn farewell yesterday and departed for St. Louis, where Fat
Joe Cobb, Jean Darling, Mary Ann Jackson, 'Wheezer,' Harry Spear and Farina, will hold for a week before going to Kansas City. They more than enjoyed Brooklyn."
- On October 6th, the Gang began their engagement at Loew's State Theater in St. Louis.
- Also on October 6th, The Afro-American of Baltimore, MD, had this to say about the Gang's act: "Efforts of members of 'Our Gang' to get their speeches across the
footlights effectively, are not so successful, except that of 'Fatty' Cobb. Part of their act consisted of depicting the way they would enact a bit of war drama after the same story had been
thrown upon the screen."
- On October 7th, the St. Louis Daily Globe-Democrat reported on a promotion called Candy Week. In connection with this, the Candy Club would be distributing 5000 boxes of candy to the
inhabitants of various children's and old people's homes in St. Louis. Entertainment at several of these parties would be provided by the Our Gang kids.
- On October 8th, the St. Louis Daily Globe-Democrat had this to say about the Gang's act at the State: "The children are as delightful off the screen as they are on. One
nice thing about these kiddies, they are all kid. And, wisely, their manager sends them clamoring out on the stage like the bunch of healthy, tumbling youngsters that they are. They aren't made
to struggle with jokes beyond their comprehension nor contort their little bodies in ridiculous dances. They come out one by one and make funny kid bows and enact one of their comedy scenes as they
do on the sets in the Hal Roach studio. Even Pete, the dog, isn't held to any set schedule. He comes out and wuff, wuffs a bit and calls it a day."
- On October 12th, the Gang made a personal appearance in the Junior Section of Boyd's department store in St. Louis at 5 p.m.
- On October 13th, the Gang arrived in Kansas City and began their engagement at Loew's Midland Theater.
- Also on October 13th, the Kansas City Journal-Post published an article about the Gang, which can be accessed by clicking
here.
- On October 18th, the Kansas City Journal-Post reported the following: "The Our Gang comedy kids are for the Charities drive. They visited Mercy hospital yesterday and now
they know why Kansas City has a charities drive. They found Bobbie in a wheel chair and Ralph's little feet all bandaged. So they held out their hands to the big hearted people of Kansas
City."
- Also on October 18th, The Emporia Daily Gazette (KS) reported the following: "The 'Our Gang' comedy cast will pass through Emporia Saturday afternoon (the
20th) on No. 23, westbound California limited. The train will arrive in Emporia at 1:40 o'clock and will remain for five minutes. Many Emporia kids are expected to be at the station
when these youthful movie stars arrive. Emporians gave the 'Our Gang' troupe a great ovation when they passed through two months ago going east."
- On October 21st, the Gang's train made a stop in Albuquerque, NM. According to the Albuquerque Journal of the following day: "'Our Gang' came through Albuquerque
shortly before noon Sunday (the 21st) en route to the west coast after a successful trip in the east, where they made vaudeville appearances in some of the leading theaters...The Gang filed
into the Alvarado coffee shop for their noonday luncheon and were the center of attraction." Elsewhere in the same paper: "The members had previously announced their coming as Monday
(the 22nd) and few persons were on the station platform to give them a greeting. Junior Redd, 206 South Broadway, a former member of the gang, was at the station to renew his
acquaintanceship with the juvenile actors."
- On October 22nd, the Gang's train went through San Bernardino. According to the San Bernardino Daily Sun from the previous day, it was scheduled to stop for 10 minutes at 12:40
in the afternoon. Presumably they made it back home later in the day.
- On November 28th, the United Press reported the following about the recent influenza epidemic: "Four members of 'Our Gang' were recuperating. Harry Spear, the tough boy,
was still a sick youngster. Mary Ann Johnson(sic), the 'coquette,' Bobbie Hutchins, known as 'Wheezer,' and Joe Cobb, the fat boy, also were recovering."
- 65. Playin' Hookey (lead role: Joe)
- Jan. 1, 1928 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-24 - Our Gang series
- Filmed June 27 to 29, and Aug. 1 to 6, 1927. ©Feb. 6, 1928.
- 71. Spook-Spoofing (featured role: Joe)
- Jan. 14, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 3 reels - prod. G-5 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Oct. 11 to 27, 1927. ©Jan. 14, 1928.
- 72. Rainy Days (featured role: Joe)
- Feb. 11, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-6 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Nov. 4 to Dec. 28, 1927. ©Feb. 11, 1928, and Sep. 4, 1929.
- 66. The Smile Wins (supporting role)
- Feb. 26, 1928 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-23 - Our Gang series
- Filmed May 24 to June 7, 1927. ©Sep. 2, 1927.
- 73. Edison, Marconi & Co. (supporting role)
- Mar. 10, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-7 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Mar. 9, 1928. Filmed Dec. 16 to 22, and Dec. 28, 1927. ©Mar. 10, 1928.
- 74. Barnum & Ringling, Inc. (featured role)
- Apr. 7, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-8 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Dec. 21, 1927, to Jan. 9, 1928. ©Apr. 7, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- 75. Fair And Muddy (featured role)
- May 5, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-9 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Jan. 16 to Feb. 8, 1928. ©May 5, 1928.
- 76. Crazy House (featured role: Joe)
- June 2, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-10 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Feb. 10 to 24, 1928. ©May 16, 1928.
- MGM News (appearance)
- Aug. 26, 1928 - MGM - 1 reel - newsreel
- This was reviewed the following day, so I'm going with the copyright date that comes closest. Featured is footage of the Our Gang troupe during their cross-country tour.
- 77. Growing Pains (supporting role)
- Sep. 22, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-11 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Feb. 27 to Mar. 15, 1928. ©Sep. 22, 1928.
- 78. The Ol' Gray Hoss (featured role)
- Oct. 20, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-12 - Our Gang series
- Filmed May 7 to 26, 1928, with retakes Aug. 16, 1928. ©Oct. 20, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- 79. School Begins (featured role: Joe aka Joseph)
- Nov. 17, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-13 - Our Gang series
- Premiered Sep. 16, 1928. Filmed June 7 to 28, 1928. ©Nov. 17, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- 80. The Spanking Age (supporting role)
- Dec. 15, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-14 - Our Gang series
- Filmed July 2 to 14, 1928. ©Dec. 15, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
1929
- On April 6th of this year, the Associated Press reported that Joe was currently in the sixth grade.
- During this year, Joe and his fellow Gangsters were featured in a picture book called A Story Of Our Gang, written by Eleanor Lewis Packer.
- In late May, Joe left the Our Gang series upon the completion of "Boxing Gloves."
- In mid-June, Joe returned to work in "Lazy Days," after which he was more permanently retired from the series.
- By October 10th, Joe had teamed up with Scooter Lowry in a vaudeville act called Two Kids Kidding.
- A letter dated November 18th to a local theater manager in Indianapolis points out the availability of Joe and Scooter the week of January 25th of the following year, and states that
they were currently "doing exceptionally well in the South."
- Hollywood - The Movieland Of The World (appearance)
- c. early 1929 - California Scenics - 2 reels - travelogue film
- Joe and the rest of the Gang are shown posing for photos on the set of "Rainy Days." This footage was shot in Dec. 1927, though other footage in the travelogue was shot as late as
Nov. 1928. Raw footage taken for this film, including being-the-scenes footage of the making of "Rainy Days," can be found on YouTube.
- 81. Election Day (supporting role: Joe Cobb)
- Jan. 12, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-15 - Our Gang series
- Filmed July 19 to Aug. 4, 1928, with retakes Aug. 22 to 24, 1928. ©Dec. 10, 1928.
- 82. Noisy Noises (lead role: Joe)
- Feb. 9, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-16 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Oct. 29 to Nov. 10, 1928. ©Mar. 5, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- 83. The Holy Terror (featured role: Joe Cobb)
- Mar. 9, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-17 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Nov. 19 to 28, 1928. ©July 11, 1929.
- 84. Wiggle Your Ears (supporting role: Joe aka Joseph)
- Apr. 6, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-18 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Dec. 4 to 12, 1928. ©Mar. 5, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- 85. Fast Freight (featured role)
- May 4, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. G-19 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Dec. 10 to 27, and Dec. 29, 1928. ©Apr. 1, 1929.
- 89. Small Talk (supporting role: Joe aka Joseph)
- May 18, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 3 reels - prod. G-23 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Apr. 18, 1929. Filmed Mar. 25 to Apr. 6, 1929. ©July 30, 1929.
- 86. Little Mother (supporting role: Joe)
- June 1, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. G-20 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Feb. 4 to 13, 1929. ©June 3, 1929.
- 90. Railroadin' (featured role: Joe aka Jody)
- June 15, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. G-24 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Apr. 17 to 25, 1929. ©Dec. 9, 1929.
- 92. Lazy Days (supporting role: Joe)
- Aug. 24, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. G-26 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Aug. 15, 1929, and Oct. 24, 1929. Filmed June 10 to 20, 1929. ©Aug. 26, 1929.
- 91. Boxing Gloves (featured role: Joe Cobb)
- Sep. 9, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. G-25 - Our Gang series
- Filmed May 13 to 25, 1929. ©Sep. 9, 1929.
- 87. Cat, Dog & Co. (featured role: Joe)
- Sep. 14, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. G-21 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Feb. 20 to Mar. 2, 1929. ©Sep. 3, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
- 88. Saturday's Lesson (featured role: Joe aka Joseph)
- Nov. 9, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. G-22 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Mar. 5 to 11, 1929. ©Sep. 9, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
1930
- On January 14th of this year, at the earliest, Joe's act with Scooter Lowry came to an end. By February 18th, Scooter had started a solo act. Presumably, Joe did likewise.
- On May 13th, the Bradford Evening Star and Daily Record (PA) published an article on the physical welfare of the Our Gang kids. It mentioned that Joe "who likes milk and
could get along very well without it, can drain a quart bottle with a meal." Of course, since he had been out of the Gang for a year at this point, this is probably outdated information.
- On September 20th, Joe, along with Jackie Cooper and Mary Ann Jackson, was among the fifty guests at the surprise birthday party of twins Harold and Gerald Morris, given by their mother Elsie
in the Blossom Room of the Roosevelt Hotel.
- The Voice Of Hollywood Series 1, No. 15 (appearance as host)
- Jul. 12, 1930 - Lewyn/Tiffany - 1 reel
- ©July 22, 1930. Motion Picture News created a bit of confusion over this item for modern researchers. Their Aug. 9th release chart credited Joe with appearing in no. 14 of
this series, while crediting Ruth Roland with no. 15. Elsewhere in the same issue is a review crediting Joe with no. 15, and backtracking to the July 12th issue reveals a review crediting
Roland with no. 13. Issues subsequent to Aug. 9th clear up the mess by consistently crediting Joe with hosting no. 15.
1932
- In an article about Scooter Lowry in the Cleveland Plain Dealer of Aug. 11th of this year, Joe was said to have become a vaudevillian. Presumably, this means he was still active
on the stage in 1932.
- In October, Joe returned to the Our Gang series, working for two days in "Fish Hooky," the first of two reunion films in the series.
1933
- According to The Indianapolis News of September 4th of this year, Joe had lost his long-earned fortune in a bank failure. It also states that he was currently going to high
school and selling newspapers.
- 120. Fish Hooky (small part: Joe)
- Jan. 28, 1933 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-13 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Oct. 17 to 22, 1932. ©Jan. 16, 1933.
1934
- A news item from Jan. 8th of this year mentions a 20th anniversary party for Hal Roach Studios, which was to include Joe on its guest list.
1936
- Early this year, or perhaps late in the previous year, Joe, along with Mary Kornman and Johnny Downs, visited Bob McGowan while the latter was directing "Too Many Parents."
- On January 21st, a press photo was circulated showing Joe visiting the Our Gang kids on the set of "Second Childhood."
- A letter written by Joe on January 24th of this year describes how he had just returned to Los Angeles after finishing a post graduate course at Southern Methodist University in Dallas.
The letter was written to somebody named Mr. Starr, with Joe letting him know that he's interested in getting back into movies. He also mentions that, in between school work, he had been
working in vaudeville with some success.
- A Roach studio press release from this period mentioned that at least on some occasions, Joe's vaudeville activities had involved other former Our Gang members.
- On April 4th of this year, Joe, acting as master of ceremonies, appeared along with the current crop of Our Gang kids at the Fox Arlington theater in Santa Barbara for afternoon and
evening performances. This was no doubt in preparation of an Our Gang publicity tour which would take place in April and May, and which would also feature Joe as MC.
- On April 8th, the Our Gang entourage, including Joe, left in a private train car for destinations east.
- On April 9th, the entourage stopped in Ogden, UT, on their way to the first stop in their personal appearance tour: Duluth.
- On the evening of April 10th, the Our Gang entourage stopped briefly at the Union Station in Omaha, NB, where they took questions from reporters.
- On April 12th, the Our Gang kids opened their personal appearance tour in Duluth, MN, where they performed for three days. As the Sayre Daily Headlight-Journal (OK)
reported on April 22nd: "The group makes five appearances daily, in a vaudeville act of 23 minutes."
- On April 17th, the Our Gang entourage arrived in Minneapolis in the morning for a week's engagement at the Minnesota Theater.
- On April 19th, The Daily Oklahoman of Oklahoma City reported that the Gang's 2-month tour was being extended to three months.
- It appears that the Our Gang entourage arrived in Chicago on April 24th and stayed until the end of the month. The Chicago Daily Tribune ran ads during the week for the Chicago State
theater, which featured the kids in person. Oddly, one of these ads was for May 1st, but it's pretty clear that they were no longer in town on that date.
- On April 22nd, The Minneapolis Journal published a version of Merle Potter's column in which the various Our Gang kids filled in for him. This is what Joe had to say:
"Being a graduate of Our Gang is not near as nice as being one of the Gang. However, I'm happy to return as master of ceremonies for their stage tour; and, true to the best in
m.c. form, I'll introduce another and the last of the 'gangsters' our canine pal - " After this, we get a very brief quote from Pete the Pup.
- On May 1st, the Our Gang entourage arrived in Detroit in the morning for a week's engagement at the Michigan Theatre.
- On May 5th, The Detroit Free Press ran an ad for their Michigan theater engagement, mentioning Alfalfa, Harold, Pete, Buckwheat and Joe, but not Spanky or Darla. This was due to an
outbreak of the measles, which ultimately brought the tour to a premature end.
- On July 18th, the Our Gang series celebrated its 15th anniversary at the Roach studio, and Joe was among the former members who took part in the festivities.
- In October, Joe spent four days back with the Our Gang unit, working in "Pay As You Exit."
- On October 23rd, Joe attended Porky Lee's 3rd birthday party at the Our Gang Cafe.
- On November 1st, Alma Whitaker reported that Joe had graduated from high school a year ahead of schedule.
- In December, Joe worked with the Our Gang unit again, this time for two days in "Reunion In Rhythm."
- Fox Movietone News (appearance)
- 1936 - Fox - 1 reel - newsreel
- Our Gang's 15th anniversary is featured in a Hollywood Spotlight segment with Jimmie Fidler.
- 148. Pay As You Exit (small part)
- ©Nov. 17, 1936 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-3 - Our Gang series
- Also listed for Oct. 24, 1936. Filmed Oct. 14 to 19, 1936.
1937
- On March 31st of this year, the Hollywood Citizen-News reported that Joe had attended the recent birthday party of Baby Patsy May, which was modified to include presents for
Alfalfa Switzer and Buckwheat Thomas, both of whose parties had been cancelled due to a wave of influenza.
- 151. Reunion In Rhythm (small part)
- Jan. 9, 1937 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-5 - Our Gang series
- Filmed Dec. 9 to 14, 1936. ©Jan. 14, 1937.
1938
- A Yank At Oxford (small part: short drummer)
- Feb. 18, 1938 - MGM - 9 reels - Robert Taylor feature
- ©Feb. 8, 1938. There is some question as to Joe's involvement in this film, since it was a production of the UK branch of MGM. It should be noted, though, that the scene in
question takes place in the US with a bunch of American characters. One of these is the newsboy, who's played by peripheral Our Gang kid Roger McGee. So either they shot the scene in the
US, or transported at least one bit player to the UK.
1941
- Where Did You Get That Girl? (supporting role: Tubby)
- Jan. 3, 1941 - Universal - 7 reels - feature
- © Dec. 26, 1940. Featuring Leon Errol, Helen Parrish, Charles Lang and Eddie Quillan.
- Tuxedo Junction (bit part: migrant boy)
- Nov. 25, 1941 - Republic - 7 reels - Weaver Brothers feature
- © Dec. 4, 1941. UK title: The Gang Made Good.
1942
- Leaving the movie business, Joe went to work for North American Aviation during this year as an assembler.
1953
- You Asked For It episode (appearance)
- Jul. 27, 1953 - ABC - 30 min. - TV episode
- Hosted by Art Baker. Featuring a reunion of the silent-era Our Gang kids, along with Bob McGowan, Fern Carter and Art Lloyd.
1955
- Joe took part in an Our Gang reunion for TV Guide, which was the subject of an article in the May 14th to 20th issue, complete with photos.
1978
- Rascal Dazzle (archival)
- 1978 - King World/Picture Scores - 93 min. - documentary feature
- ©1978. Seems to have debuted on TV, followed by a theatrical release in late 1979. Includes footage from "Reunion In Rhythm."
1980
- Joe was a member of the Way Out West tent of Sons Of The Desert, the Laurel & Hardy appreciation society. From July 30th to August 3rd, the Way Out West tent hosted the Sons of the
Desert Second International Convention (or "Hollywood '80") at the Los Angeles Hilton, which included the largest Our Gang reunion to ever take place. Joe, of course,
was in attendance.
1981
- After 39 years, Joe retired from Rockwell International (previously North American Aviation) during this year.
1982
- Hollywood's Children (archival)
- Feb. 24, 1982 - Wombat/Janson - 60 min. - TV documentary
- Included is footage from "Jubilo, Jr."
- Hollywood: The Gift Of Laughter (archival)
- May 16, 1982 - Wolper/Haley/MPA/ABC - 135 min. - TV movie
- Includes footage from "Monkey Business."
1984
- Our Gang: Inside The Clubhouse (archival)
- May 8, 1984 - Lang/Camellia City Telecasters - 93 mins. - TV documentary
- Includes footage from "The Big Show," "Thundering Fleas," "Boxing Gloves" and "You Asked For It." Also includes footage from Art Lloyd home movie
showing Joe during the 1930s.
1988
- Muppet Babies episode: Is There A Muppet In The House? (archival)
- Oct. 1, 1988 - Henson/CBS - 30 min. - TV episode
- Includes footage from "Shivering Spooks."
1994
- The Our Gang Story (archival)
- 1994 - Film Shows/GoodTimes - 120 min. - video documentary
- Includes footage from "The Champeen!" "Giants Vs. Yanks," "Dogs Of War!" "The Sun Down Limited," "Monkey Business,"
"Shivering Spooks," "Fox Movietone News," "Reunion In Rhythm" and "You Asked For It."
1998
- Hal Roach: The Lot Of Fun (archival)
- June 27, 1998 - Film Preservation Associates/Kino Lorber - 133 min. - video documentary
- Released on "Slapstick Encyclopedia Vol. 6."
1999
- Laugh? I Thought I'd Die! (archival)
- 1999 - Reader's Digest - 112 min. - video
- Includes footage from "Pay As You Exit."
2002
- After Jay R. Smith's tragic death in October of this year, the Way Out West tent (of Sons of the Desert) held memorial services for both him and the recently-departed Joe
Cobb.
- E! True Hollywood Story episode: Curse Of The Little Rascals (archival)
- Nov. 24, 2002 - E! Entertainment Television - 60 min. - TV documentary
2014
- Hollywoods Spaßfabrik - Als die Bilder Lachen lernten (archival)
- May 29, 2014 - Exit Film-und Fernsehproduktion-ZDF/ARTE - 90 min. - TV documentary
- Also released in English as Hal Roach - The Lot Of Fun: Where The Movies Learned To Laugh. Includes footage from "Barnum & Ringling, Inc.," "Fast
Freight" and "Cat, Dog & Co.."
Joe Cobb's payroll history
The following is a list of Joe's history at the Roach studio, with the amounts he was making from week to week. The dates given are Saturdays, the last day of each week at the studio.
The only exceptions would be Saturdays that were also holidays, in which case the Friday date is used for those weeks.
Special note: Production A9 (The Champeen!), Production A38 (Ask Grandma), and Production K3 (One Wild Ride) are missing from this
list. It appears that in each case, they started off as the previous production, which then got divided into two films.
- Sep. 9, 1922 - 50.00 charged to prod. A7 (The Big Show)
Joe was immediately put under longterm contract. The rest of the Our Gang kids' salaries were charged to "The Cobbler" during this week, a film Joe didn't appear
in.
- Sep. 16, 1922 - 50.00 - 8.33 charged to prod. A7, 41.67 charged to prod. B10 (A Tough Winter)
- Sep. 23, 1922 - 50.00 - 33.33 charged to prod. A7, 16.67 charged to prod. B10
- Sep. 30, 1922 - 50.00 - 20.83 charged to prod. A7, 29.17 charged to prod. A8 (The Cobbler)
Part of Joe's salary was charged to A8, in spite of his absence from that film.
- Oct. 7, 1922 - 50.00 charged to prod. A10 (Boys To Board)
- Oct. 14, 1922 - 50.00 charged to prod. A10
- Oct. 21, 1922 - 50.00 charged to prod. A10
- Oct. 28, 1922 - 50.00 charged to prod. A10
- Nov. 4, 1922 - 50.00 - 29.17 charged to prod. A10, 20.83 charged to prod. A11 (A Pleasant Journey)
- Nov. 11, 1922 - 50.00 charged to prod. A11
- Nov. 18, 1922 - 50.00 - 33.33 charged to prod. A11, 16.67 charged to prod. A12 (Giants Vs. Yanks)
- Nov. 25, 1922 - 50.00 charged to prod. A12
- Dec. 2, 1922 - 50.00 charged to prod. A12
- Dec. 9, 1922 - 50.00 charged to prod. A12
- Dec. 16, 1922 - 50.00 - 33.33 charged to prod. A12, 16.67 charged to prod. A13 (Back Stage)
- Dec. 23, 1922 - 50.00 - 4.17 charged to prod. A12, 45.83 charged to prod. A13
- Dec. 30, 1922 - 50.00 charged to prod. A13
- Jan. 6, 1923 - 50.00 charged to prod. A13
- Jan. 13, 1923 - 50.00 - 16.67 charged to prod. A13, 16.66 charged to prod. A14 (Dogs Of War!), 16.67 charged to prod. A7
- Jan. 20, 1923 - 50.00 charged to prod. A14
- Jan. 27, 1923 - 50.00 charged to prod. A14
- Feb. 3, 1923 - 50.00 charged to prod. A14
- Feb. 10, 1923 - 50.00 charged to prod. A14
- Feb. 17, 1923 - 50.00 - 4.17 charged to prod. A12, 45.83 charged to prod. A15 (Lodge Night)
- Feb. 24, 1923 - 50.00 - 20.83 charged to prod. A14, 29.17 charged to prod. A15
- Mar. 3, 1923 - 125.00 - 8.33 charged to prod. A13, 41.67 charged to prod. A15, 75.00 charged to prod. A16 (Fast Company)
Oddly, Joe wasn't given a paycheck for the week ending Mar. 10th, even though "Fast Company" was in production.
- Mar. 17, 1923 - 75.00 - 62.50 charged to prod. A16, 12.50 charged to prod. A17 (Stage Fright)
- Mar. 24, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A17
- Mar. 31. 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A17
- Apr. 7, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A17
- Apr. 14, 1923 - 75.00 - 37.50 charged to prod. A17, 37.50 charged to prod. A18 (July Days)
- Apr. 21, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A18
- Apr. 28, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A18
- May 5, 1923 - 75.00 - 37.50 charged to prod. A18, 37.50 charged to prod. A19 (Sunday Calm)
- May 12, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A19
- May 19, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A19
- May 26, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A19
- June 2, 1923 - 75.00 - 15.00 charged to prod. A18, 30.00 charged to prod. A19, 30.00 charged to prod. A20 (No Noise)
- June 9, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A20
- June 16, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A20
- June 23, 1923 - 75.00 - 25.00 charged to prod. A17, 50.00 charged to prod. A20
- June 30, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A17
- July 7, 1923 - 75.00 - 15.00 charged to prod. A17, 60.00 charged to prod. A19
- July 14, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A19
- July 21, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A21 (Derby Day)
- July 28, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A21
- Aug. 4, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A21
- Aug. 11, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A21
- Aug. 18, 1923 - 75.00 - 12.50 charged to prod. A21, 62.50 charged to prod. A22 (Tire Trouble)
- Aug. 25, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A22
- Sep. 1, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A22
- Sep. 8, 1923 - 75.00 - 30.00 charged to prod. A22, 45.00 charged to prod. A23 (Big Business)
- Sep. 15, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A23
- Sep. 22, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A23
- Sep. 29, 1923 - 75.00 - 37.50 charged to prod. A23, 37.50 charged to prod. A24 (The Buccaneers)
- Oct. 6, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A24
- Oct. 13, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A24
- Oct. 20, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A24
- Oct. 27, 1923 - 75.00 - 37.50 charged to prod. A24, 37.50 charged to prod. A25 (Seein' Things)
- Nov. 3, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A25
- Nov. 10, 1923 - 75.00 - 42.86 charged to prod. A25, 32.14 charged to prod. A26 (Commencement Day)
- Nov. 17, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A26
- Nov. 24, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A26
- Dec. 1, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A26
- Dec. 8, 1923 - 75.00 - 37.50 charged to prod. A26, 37.50 charged to prod. A27 (It's A Bear)
- Dec. 15, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A27
- Dec. 22, 1923 - 75.00 - 10.71 charged to prod. A25, 64.29 charged to prod. A27
- Dec. 29, 1923 - 75.00 charged to prod. A27
- Jan. 5, 1924 - 75.00 charged to prod. A27
- Jan. 12, 1924 - 75.00 - 4.16 charged to prod. A25, 54.17 charged to prod. A26, 16.67 charged to prod. A27
- Jan. 19, 1924 - 75.00 - 62.50 charged to prod. A27, 12.50 charged to prod. L12 (Short Kilts)
Note: this probably pertains to L11 (Rupert Of Hee Haw)
- Jan. 26, 1924 - 75.00 - 50.00 charged to prod. A26, 25.00 charged to prod. R11 (Going To Congress)
- Feb. 2, 1924 - 75.00 charged to prod. A28 (Cradle Robbers)
- Feb. 9, 1924 - 75.00 charged to prod. A28
- Feb. 16, 1924 - 75.00 charged to prod. A28
- Feb. 23, 1924 - 75.00 - 50.00 charged to prod. A28, 25.00 charged to prod. T2 (The Battling Orioles)
- Mar. 1, 1924 - 75.00 charged to prod. A29 (Jubilo, Jr.)
- Mar. 8, 1924 - 91.67 - 25.00 charged to prod. A27, 66.67 charged to prod. A29
- Mar. 15, 1924 - 100.00 - 50.00 charged to prod. A27, 50.00 charged to prod. A29
- Mar. 22, 1924 - 100.00 - 83.33 charged to prod. A29, 16.67 charged to prod. D57 (Fast Black)
- Mar. 29, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A30 (High Society)
- Apr. 5, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A30
- Apr. 12, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A30
- Apr. 19, 1924 - 100.00 - 83.33 charged to prod. A30, 16.67 charged to prod. D59 (Riders Of The Kitchen Range)
- Apr. 26, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A31 (The Sun Down Limited)
- May 3, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A31
- May 10, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A31
- May 17, 1924 - 100.00 - 83.33 charged to prod. A31, 16.67 charged to prod. D59
- May 24, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A31
- May 31, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A31
- June 7, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A32 (Every Man For Himself)
- June 14, 1924 - 100.00 - 33.33 charged to prod. A16 (Fast Company), 66.67 charged to prod. A32
- June 21, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A16
- June 28, 1924 - 100.00 - 16.67 charged to prod. A16, 83.33 charged to prod. F17 (The Rubber-Neck)
- July 5, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A33 (The Mysterious Mystery!)
- July 12, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A33
- July 19, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A33
- July 26, 1924 - 100.00 - 83.33 charged to prod. A33, 16.67 charged to prod. E8 (Tame Men And Wild Women)
- Aug. 2, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A33
- Aug. 9, 1924 - 100.00 - 50.00 charged to prod. A33, 50.00 charged to prod. A34 (The Big Town)
- Aug. 16, 1924 - 50.00 charged to prod. A34
The studio was closed for three weeks in August 1924, resulting in a lower rate for Joe.
- Aug. 23, 1924 - 50.00 charged to studio overhead
- Aug. 30, 1924 - 50.00 - 25.00 charged to prod. A33, 25.00 charged to prod. A34
- Sep. 6, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A34
- Sep. 13, 1924 - 100.00 - 83.33 charged to prod. A33, 16.67 charged to prod. A34
- Sep. 20, 1924 - 100.00 - 16.67 charged to prod. A33, 83.33 charged to prod. A34
- Sep. 27, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A34
- Oct. 4, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A34
- Oct. 11, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A34
- Oct. 18, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A34
- Oct. 25, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A35 (Circus Fever)
- Nov. 1, 1924 - 100.00 - 41.67 charged to prod. A35, 58.33 charged to prod. A36 (Dog Days)
- Nov. 8, 1924 - 100.00 - 83.33 charged to prod. A35, 16.67 charged to prod. A36
- Nov. 15, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A35
- Nov. 22, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A36
- Nov. 29, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A36
- Dec. 6, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A36
- Dec. 13, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A36
- Dec. 20, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A37 (The Love Bug)
- Dec. 27, 1924 - 100.00 charged to prod. A37
- Jan. 3, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A37
- Jan. 10, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A37
- Jan. 17, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A37
- Jan. 24, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A39 (Shootin' Injuns)
- Jan. 31, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A39
- Feb. 7, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A39
- Feb. 14, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A39
- Feb. 21, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A40 (Official Officers)
- Feb. 28, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A40
- Mar. 7, 1925 - 150.00 charged to prod. A40
- Mar. 14, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A40
- Mar. 21, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A41 (Mary, Queen Of Tots)
- Mar. 28, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A41
- Apr. 4, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A41
- Apr. 11, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A41
- Apr. 18, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A42 (Boys Will Be Joys)
- Apr. 25, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A42
- May 2, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A42
- May 9, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A42
- May 16, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A42
- May 23, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A42
- May 30, 1925 - 200.00 - 80.00 charged to prod. A42, 120.00 charged to prod. A43 (Better Movies)
- June 6, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A43
- June 13, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A43
- June 20, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A43
- June 27, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. A43
Note: This production was subsequently renumbered K1, as the Animal Co. was renamed the Kid Co.
- July 4, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K2 (Your Own Back Yard)
- July 11, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K2
- July 18, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K2
- July 25, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K2
- Aug. 1, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K2
- Aug. 8, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K2
- Aug. 15, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K2
- Aug. 22, 1925 - 25.00 charged to prod. K2
The studio was closed for two weeks, resulting in a reduced salary for Joe.
- Aug. 29, 1925 - 25.00 charged to prod. K4 (Good Cheer)
- Sep. 5, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K4
- Sep. 12, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K4
- Sep. 19, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K4
- Sep. 26, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K4
- Oct. 3, 1925 - 200.00 - 100.00 charged to prod. K4, 100.00 charged to prod. K5 (Buried Treasure)
- Oct. 10, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K5
- Oct. 17, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K5
- Oct. 24, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K5
- Oct. 31, 1925 - 200.00 - 166.67 charged to prod. K5, 33.33 charged to prod. K6 (Monkey Business)
- Nov. 7, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K6
- Nov. 14, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K6
- Nov. 21, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K6
- Nov. 28, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K6
- Dec. 5, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K6
- Dec. 12, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K7 (Baby Clothes)
- Dec. 19, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K7
- Dec. 26, 1925 - 200.00 charged to prod. K7
There were no ledger sheets for the week ending Jan. 2nd, due to the studio being closed, but Joe was still paid his $200.
- Jan. 9, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K7
- Jan. 16, 1926 - 200.00 - 33.33 charged to prod. K7, 166.67 charged to prod. K8 (Uncle Tom's Uncle)
- Jan. 23, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K8
- Jan. 30, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K8
- Feb. 6, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K8
- Feb. 13, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K8
- Feb. 20, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K8
- Feb. 27, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K9 (Thundering Fleas)
- Mar. 6, 1926 - 216.67 charged to prod. K9
- Mar. 13, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K9
- Mar. 20, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K9
- Mar. 27, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K9
- Apr. 3, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K9
- Apr 10, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K10 (Shivering Spooks)
- Apr. 17, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K10
- Apr. 24, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K10
- May 1, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K10
- May 8, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K10
- May 15, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K10
- May 22, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K10
- May 29, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K11 (The Fourth Alarm!)
- June 5, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K11
- June 12, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K11
- June 19, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K11
- June 26, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K11
- July 3, 1926 - 500.00 - 250.00 charged to prod. K11 (War Feathers), 250.00 vacation pay
For four weeks during July, the studio was closed for summer vacation, resulting in a lower rate for Joe, though he did get the extra $250 the week before the hiatus.
- July 17, 1926 - 25.00 charged to studio overhead
- July 24, 1926 - 25.00 charged to studio overhead
- July 31, 1926 - 25.00 charged to studio overhead
- Aug. 7, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K12
- Aug. 14, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K12
- Aug. 21, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K12
- Aug. 28, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K12
- Sep. 4, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K12
- Sep. 11, 1926 - 250.00 - 150.00 charged to prod. K13 (Seeing The World), 110.00 charged to prod. K14 (Telling Whoppers)
- Sep. 18, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K14
- Sep. 25, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K14
- Oct. 2, 1926 - 250.00 - 83.33 charged to prod. K14, 166.67 charged to prod. K15 (Bring Home The Turkey)
- Oct. 9, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K15
- Oct. 16, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K15
- Oct. 23, 1926 - 250.00 - 208.33 charged to prod. K15, 41.67 charged to prod. K13
- Oct. 30, 1926 - 250.00 - 166.67 charged to prod. K13, 83.33 charged to prod. K15
- Nov. 6, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K13
- Nov. 13, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K13
- Nov. 20, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K13
- Nov. 27, 1926 - 250.00 - 83.337 charged to prod. K13, 166.67 charged to prod. K16 (Ten Years Old)
- Dec. 4, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K16
- Dec. 11, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K16
- Dec. 18, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K16
- Dec. 25, 1926 - 250.00 charged to prod. K17 (Love My Dog)
- Jan. 1, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. K17
The payroll ledger for 1927 has gone missing, which makes some of the details for these dates unavailable. There are, however, datebooks and payroll summaries that have survived, and
these verify most of the information about Joe's salary that would be found in the ledger. The main exception is that, during the interim between films, it isn't clear which
production the player's salary is being charged to.
- Jan. 8, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. K17
- Jan. 15, 1927 - 250.00
- Jan. 22, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. K18 (Tired Business Men)
- Jan. 29, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. K18
- Feb. 5, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. K18
- Feb. 12, 1927 - 250.00
- Feb. 19, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. K19 (Baby Brother)
- Feb. 26, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. K19
- Mar. 5, 1927 - 300.00 charged to prod. K19
- Mar. 12, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K19
- Mar. 19, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K19
- Mar. 26, 1927 - 400.00
- Apr. 2, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K20 (Chicken Feed)
- Apr. 9, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K20
- Apr. 16, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K20
- Apr. 23, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K21 (Olympic Games)
- Apr. 30, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K21
- May 7, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K21
- May 14, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K22 (The Glorious Fourth)
- May 21, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K22
- May 28, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K23 (Playin' Hookey)
- June 4, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K23
- June 11, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K23
- June 18, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G1 (Yale Vs. Harvard)
- June 25, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G1
- July 2, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K24 (The Smile Wins)
As distribution was shifting from Pathé to MGM, the Kid Co. transitioned into the Gang Co. During the weeks ending July 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th, the studio was closed. The datebooks
indicate that Joe wasn't paid during this stretch, but the payroll summaries indicate that he was.
- Aug. 6, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. K24
- Aug. 13, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G2 (The Old Wallop)
- Aug. 20, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G2
- Aug. 27, 1927 - 400.00
- Sep. 3, 1927 $5; 400.00 charged to prod. G3 (Heebee Jeebees)
- Sep. 10, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G3
- Sep. 17, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G3 and G4 (Dog Heaven)
It isn't clear whether Joe's salary was split in half between the two productions, or perhaps 1/3 for G3 and 2/3 for G4.
- Sep. 24, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G4
- Oct. 1, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G3 and G4
It isn't clear whether Joe's salary was split 5/6 for G4 and 1/6 for G3, or 11/12 for G4 and 1/12 for G3.
- Oct. 8, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G4
- Oct. 15, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G4 and G5 (Spook-Spoofing)
It appears that Joe's salary was probably split 5/12 for G4 and 7/12 for G5.
- Oct. 22, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G5
- Oct. 29, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G5
- Nov. 5, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G4 and G6 (Rainy Days)
It appears that Joe's salary was probably split 1/3 for G4 and 2/3 for G6.
- Nov. 12, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G6
- Nov. 19, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G6
- Nov. 26, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G6
- Dec. 3, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G6
- Dec. 10, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G6
- Dec. 17, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G6 and G7 (Edison, Marconi & Co.)
It appears that Joe's salary was probably split 5/6 for G6 and 1/6 for G7.
- Dec. 24, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G6, G7 and G8 Barnum & Ringling, Inc.)
It appears that Joe's salary was probably split 14/36 for G6, 11/36 for G7 and 11/36 for G8
- Dec. 31, 1927 - 400.00 charged to prod. G6, G7 and G8
It appears that Joe's salary was probably split 1/6 for G6, 1/6 for G7 and 4/6 for G8
With the start of 1928, we can return to the payroll ledgers for a more accurate picture of Joe's history.
- Jan. 7, 1928 - 400.00 charged to prod. G8
- Jan. 14, 1928 - 400.00 charged to prod. G8
- Jan. 21, 1928 - 400.00 charged to prod. G9 (Fair And Muddy)
- Jan. 28, 1928 - 400.00 charged to prod. G9
- Feb. 4, 1928 - 400.00 charged to prod. G9
- Feb. 11, 1928 - 400.00 - 266.67 charged to prod. G9, 133.33 charged to prod. G10 (Crazy House)
- Feb. 18, 1928 - 400.00 charged to prod. G10
- Feb. 25, 1928 - 400.00 charged to prod. G10
- Mar. 3, 1928 - 400.00 charged to prod. G11 (Growing Pains)
- Mar. 10, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G11
- Mar. 17, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G11
- Mar. 24, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G11
The studio was closed during the spring, resulting in Joe not being paid for the week ending Mar. 31st, and then receiving a lower salary for the rest of the break.
- Apr. 7, 1928 - 50.00 charged to studio overhead
- Apr. 14, 1928 - 50.00 charged to studio overhead
- Apr. 21, 1928 - 50.00 charged to studio overhead
- Apr. 28, 1928 - 50.00 charged to studio overhead
- May 5, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G12 (The Ol' Gray Hoss)
- May 12, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G12
- May 19, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G12
- May 26, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G12
- June 2, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G12
- June 9, 1928 - 500.00 - 250.00 charged to prod. G12, 250.00 charged to prod. G13 (School Begins)
- June 16, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G13
- June 23, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G13
- June 30, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G13
- July 7, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G14 (The Spanking Age)
- July 14, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G14
- July 21, 1928 - 500.00 - 250.00 charged to prod. G14, 250.00 charged to prod. G15 (Election Day)
- July 28, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G15
- Aug. 4, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G15
- Aug. 11, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G15
- Aug. 18, 1928 - 500.00 charged to Gang Tour
Joe and his fellow Gangsters spent a couple of months on a personal appearance tour.
- Aug. 25, 1928 - 500.00 charged to Gang Tour
An unusual situation, since this was the only week in which Jackie Condon and Jay R. Smith worked in "Election Day," and yet the regular members of the troupe were still
apparently on tour.
- Sep. 1, 1928 - 500.00 charged to Gang Tour
- Sep. 8, 1928 - 500.00 charged to Gang Tour
- Sep. 15, 1928 - 500.00 charged to Gang Tour
- Sep. 22, 1928 - 500.00 charged to Gang Tour
- Sep. 29, 1928 - 500.00 charged to Gang Tour
- Oct. 6, 1928 - 500.00 charged to Gang Tour
- Oct. 13, 1928 - 500.00 charged to Gang Tour
- Oct. 20, 1928 - 500.00 charged to Gang Tour
- Oct. 27, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G16 (Noisy Noises)
- Nov. 3, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G16
- Nov. 10, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G16
- Nov. 17, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G16
- Nov. 24, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G17 (The Holy Terror)
- Dec. 1, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G17
- Dec. 8, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G18 (Wiggle Your Ears)
- Dec. 15, 1928 - 500.00 - 125.00 charged to prod. G18, 375.00 charged to prod. G19 (Fast Freight)
- Dec. 22, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G19
- Dec. 29, 1928 - 500.00 charged to prod. G19
- Jan. 5, 1929 - 50.00 charged to studio overhead
The studio was closed during January, resulting in a lower rate for Joe.
- Jan. 12, 1929 - 50.00 charged to studio overhead
- Jan. 19, 1929 - 50.00 charged to studio overhead
- Jan. 26, 1929 - 50.00 charged to studio overhead
- Feb. 2, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G20 (Little Mother)
- Feb. 9, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G20
- Feb. 16, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G20
- Feb. 23, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G21 (Cat, Dog & Co.)
- Mar. 2, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G21
- Mar. 9, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G22 (Saturday's Lesson)
- Mar. 16, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G22
- Mar. 23, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G22
- Mar. 30, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G23 (Small Talk)
- Apr. 6, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G23
- Apr. 13, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G23
- Apr. 20, 1929 - 500.00 - 166.67 charged to prod. G23, 333.33 charged to prod. G24 (Railroadin')
- Apr. 27, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G24
- May 4, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G24
- May 11, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G24
- May 18, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G25 (Boxing Gloves)
- May 25, 1929 - 500.00 charged to prod. G25
For the weeks ending June 1st and 8th, Joe wasn't given a check, suggesting that he had actually left the series at this time. However, he was soon brought back for one final Our Gang
short.
- June 15, 1929 - 250.00 charged to prod. G26 (Lazy Days)
- June 22, 1929 - 750.00 charged to prod. G26
After nearly seven years, Joe was now no longer an active member of Our Gang. It would be over three years before he worked at the studio again.
- Oct. 22, 1932 - 30.00 charged to prod. G13 (Fish Hooky)
Joe worked as a day player on Oct. 20th and 21st, earning $15 a day.
It would be roughly three and a half years before Joe worked with the Our Gang unit again.
- Apr. 18, 1936 - 75.00 charged to Gang Tour
At this point, Joe became Master of Ceremonies for the Gang's personal appearance tour.
- Apr. 25, 1936 - 75.00 charged to Gang Tour
- May 2, 1936 - 75.00 charged to Gang Tour
- May 9, 1936 - 75.00 - charged to Gang Tour
After another five months, Joe was working with the Gang again. In the interim, the Gang Co. reverted to the Kid Co.
- Oct. 17, 1936 - 45.00 charged to prod. K3 (Pay As You Exit)
Joe worked as a day player on Oct. 15th, 16th and 17th, earning $15 a day.
- Oct. 24, 1936 - 15.00 charged to prod. K3
Joe worked as a day player on Oct. 19th.
After another interim of a month and a half, Joe worked at the Roach studio for the final time.
- Dec. 12, 1936 - 53.13 charged to prod. K5 (Reunion In Rhythm)
Joe worked as a day player on Dec. 9th and 10th, earning $25 a day. He then received an overtime check on Dec. 11th.
See anything that needs changing? Contact me at BtheW@aol.com.