Allen "Farina" Hoskins

This filmography was made in collaboration with Matthew Lydick.

full name: Allen Clayton Hoskins
childhood nickname: Sonny Boy aka Sonny
professional nickname: Farina
adult nickname: Al
born Aug. 9, 1920, in Boston, MA
died July 26, 1980, in Oakland, CA, of cancer

Special note: Farina's full name is often given as Allen Clayton Hoskins, Jr., but this seems unlikely since his father was named Clayton H. Hoskins.

1922

Mar. 11, 1922: It was sometime during the week ending on this date that Allen Hoskins did his first film work, which was with the recently-inaugurated Our Gang series. His onscreen name "Farina" was coined by title writer H.M. Walker, who found him as chubby and agreeable as breakfast mush.
Sep. 23, 1922: Farina worked as a day player until being signed to his first long-term contract during the week on this date, making 45 dollars a week.

4. One Terrible Day (supporting role: Farina): Sep. 10, 1922 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-4 - Our Gang series; Filmed May 22 to June 10, 1922. ©Oct. 9, 1922.
2. Fire Fighters (supporting role): Oct. 8, 1922 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-2 - Our Gang series; Filmed Feb. 27 to Apr. 1, 1922. ©Oct. 9, 1922.
3. Young Sherlocks (featured role): Nov. 26, 1922 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-3 - Our Gang series; Filmed Apr. 3 to 8, and Apr. 24 to May 20, 1922. ©Nov. 11, 1922.
6. Saturday Morning (supporting role: Maple): Dec. 3, 1922 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-6 - Our Gang series; Filmed July 8 to 25, 1922. ©Nov. 11, 1922.
Screen Snapshots Series 3, No. 16 (presumed appearance): Dec. 31, 1922 - C. B. C. Film Sales Corp. - 1 reel - Screen Snapshots series; ©Dec. 8, 1922. Director Robert F. McGowan and the Our Gang cast are listed for this film, but cast members are not specified.

1923

Mar. 18, 1923: Farina's salary was increased to 60 dollars a week on this date.
Aug. 27, 1923: A new contract signed on this date increased his salary to 70 dollars a week.

9. The Champeen! (supporting role): Jan. 28, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-9 - Our Gang series; Filmed late August/September 1922. ©Dec. 16, 1922.
8. The Cobbler (featured role: Farina): Feb. 18, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-8 - Our Gang series; Filmed late August, and perhaps September, 1922. ©Feb. 26, 1923.
7. The Big Show! (featured role: Farina): 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 (featured role: Farina): 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 (supporting 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: Farina): 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 (featured role: Farina): 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! (featured role: Farina): 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: Farina): 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: Farina): 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 (featured role: Farina): 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 (supporting 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: Farina): 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: Farina): 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

1924: Farina received two salary increases during this year, first to 85 dollars in the spring and then to 100 dollars in the fall.

22. Tire Trouble (featured role): 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: Farina): 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: Farina): 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.
25. Seein' Things (lead role: Farina): 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.
26. Commencement Day (supporting role: Farina): 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.
28. Cradle Robbers (supporting role): June 1, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-28 - Our Gang series; Filmed Jan. 28 to Feb. 9, 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 (supporting role): 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.
30. High Society (featured role): 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: Farina): 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: Farina): Oct. 19, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-32 - Our Gang series; Filmed June 2 to 12, 1924. ©Oct. 2, 1924.
16. Fast Company (supporting role: Farina): 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: Farina): 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.

1925

1925: A song called "Lil' Farina (Ev'rybody Loves You)" was published by the Alvano Mier Music Publishing Company in New York, with lyrics by Harrison G. Smith and music by Alvano Mier. This song appeared, either this year or the next, on OKeh Record No. 40646, where it was sung as a duet by Al Campbell and Jack Kaufman, with piano accompaniment by Jack Glogan.
Fall 1925: Farina's salary was increased to 125 dollars a week.
Oct. 24, 1925: C.H. Hoskins, Farina's father, wrote a letter to Roach studio general manager Warren Doane, demanding $10 a week from the $125 Farina was currently earning. Apparently, Mr. Hoskins was sick and unable to work, and Mrs. Hoskins wasn't helping him out. Mr. Hoskins threatened to remove Farina from the Our Gang series if his demand wasn't met and was ready to file suit against the studio if necessary.
Nov. 9, 1925: Doane wrote a letter to Benjamin W. Shipman, the lawyer representing Mr. Hoskins, denying this request. In his response, he cited the contract signed by Mrs. Hoskins and her current legal case to gain sole guardianship over her children (which, perhaps, was prompted by her husband's demands). Indeed, it had been reported in the press as early as Oct. 26th that Mrs. Hoskins had filed for divorce. Both Farina and his sister would testify to corroborate their mother's accusation of cruelty.

34. The Big Town (featured role: Farina): 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 (supporting role: Farina): 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 (supporting role: Farina): 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: Farina): 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): 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): May 31, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-38 - Our Gang series; Probably filmed in early Jan. 1925. ©Apr. 2, 1925. Working title: First Love.
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 Farina): 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 (lead role: Farina): 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 (featured role: Farina): 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 (lead role: Farina): Dec. 6, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-3 - Our Gang series; Filmed July 30 to Aug. 4, 1925. ©Nov. 6, 1925.

1926

July 1926: Farina's parents were divorced during this year, by July at the latest, after having been separated for an extended period.
May 26, 1926: A new contract was signed, giving Farina a salary of 150 dollars a week.
1926: Debuting this year, and continuing into 1927, was an Our Gang comic strip called La Pandilla, which included Farina among the characters.
Fall 1926: Farina's salary was raised to 200 dollars.

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 (featured role: Farina): 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 (lead role: Farina): 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 (supporting role): 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 (supporting role: Farina): 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 (featured 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: Farina): 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): 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: Farina): 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: Farina): 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

May 11, 1927: From The South Brooklyn Home Talk-Weekly News: "Farina, the celebrated 'brunette' youngster of Pathe's 'Our Gang' comedies, started work in "Tired Business Men,' at the Hal Roach studios in a truly 'tirer' state. He had scarlet fever and held up the company for four weeks. Joe Cobb, Jackie Condon, Jean Darling, Scooter Lowry and Jay Smith devoted most of their idle period to speculation as to what Farina looked like with scarlet fever. They sent flowers to him with a note admonishing him to 'get well in a hurry, but before you get well, have a picture taken of yourself so we can see how you looked.' He didn't have the picture made, because even photographers can catch scarlet fever." Sidenote: There was only about a two-week gap between "Love My Dog" and "Tired Business Men."
June 18, 1927: From the Los Angeles Record: "Hal Roach today did something which he has been fighting for a long time. He let the noted group of kid players better known as 'Our Gang' sign a vaudeville contract for several weeks. Ever since the youngsters made good in the movies, offers have been coming in for their appearance upon the stage, and Roach would never permit it except at benefit performances. Now the old tradition is broken and the kids open at the San Francisco Orpheum on July 2, under the management of Harry Weber. A special act written by George Waggner is in the stages of rehearsing now with a complete cast of the 'baby stars,' including Farina, Aroma, Joe Cobb, J. R. Smith, Jean Darling, Jackie Condon and Harry Spears(sic). Roach said early this morning that he permitted the vaudeville engagement because his studio will start its annual vacation on July 2 and this would be a good time for them to do a turn or so before the footlights. It is said that a record price has been paid for the ususual act."
June 28, 1927: From The San Francisco Call and Post: "Beginning at the Saturday matinee, the entire group of 'Our Gang' kiddies, otherwise known as Hal Roach's Rascals, make their debut on the speaking stage in a comedy playlet, Acting Out. Harry Weber, the well known producer, is the person responsible for this event, and he is bringing these kiddies, including Joe Cobb, Farina, Jean Darling, Jackie Condon, Ray(sic) R. Smith, Mango and Harry Spear, to San Francisco to make their first appearance on the speaking stage."
July 1, 1927: From The San Francisco Examiner: "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." The San Francisco Chronicle added the Mission, North of the Slot and Western Addition districts to the list. On July 10th, the Examiner published an article about this reception, a thinly-veiled advertisement focusing on the fleet of Studebaker and Erskine cars used to transport the kids from the train station to City Hall.
July 1, 1927: From The San Francisco Call and Bulletin: "'Our Gang' Kiddies, who are Hal Roach's Rascals of screen comedy fame, who arrived in San Francisco this morning to fulfill an engagement of one week only at the Orpheum, beginning with the matinee tomorrow, will hold a reception on the stage after each matinee for the children attending the performance."
July 2, 1927: The San Francisco Chronicle published an article about the Gang's visit to the city, which can be accessed by clicking here.
July 2, 1927: The San Francisco Examiner published an article about the Gang's visit to the city, which can be accessed by clicking here.
July 3, 1927: From the San Francisco Chronicle: "The biggest treat and the biggest party ever given for the orphans of San Francisco will be The Chronicle-Orpheum Theater party next Wednesday morning (the 6th) at 10:30. The treat will be the appearance of 'Our Gang,' that lively bunch of youngsters from the Hal Roach studios at Culver City. Every boy and girl knows this 'gang' they have seen in motion pictures this many moons, and when the orphans assemble at the Orpheum as The Chronicle's guests, it will be a regular get-together party of old friends. The entire personnel of 'Our Gang' will be on hand, and they will not only help entertain the orphans, but will mingle with the crowd and shake hands with everybody . . . The Market Street Railway has joined in the spirit of the occasion by planning to provide free street car tickets for conveying the guests to the Orpheum and to assign an inspector to supervise their travels with the most careful attention. Written invitations have been sent to each institution and judging from the acceptances, the Orpheum will fairly bulge with youngsters. In addition to the orphans, the junior salesmen of The Chronicle will also be guests, and can each bring a friend. The only grown-ups will be the attendants in charge of the orphans and the people in charge of the big party for the youngsters, with the big feature of the entertainment another bunch of youngsters. The official song for the occasion will be 'Hail, Hail, the Gang's All Here'."
July 4, 1927: 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.
July 4, 1927: From The San Francisco Call and Post regarding Farina's part in the show: "You can't beat three kids eating watermelon on the stage. Joe Cobb, who is fat enough to be a whole show himself. Jay R. Smith, whose voice scrapes the ceiling when he introduces his pals. And Farina, who all but loses his little black head in the national dish of the southland." Regarding the Gang's presentation of "Uncle Tom's Cabin": "Farina, as Uncle Tom, does a fine bit of acting here."
July 4, 1927: From the San Francisco Chronicle: "To start the show, Cliff Work, manager of the Orpheum, has arranged to show one of the newest of the 'Our Gang' pictures produced at the Culver City film studios. As soon as the picture is finished, the curtain will go up and there, big as life, will be Joe Cobb, the fat boy of the gang; Farina, the pickaninny with the roly-poly eyes; Farina's sister, Mango; Jean Darling, Jackie Condon, Jay Smith and Robert McGowan, their director. Following introductions, the whole gang will go out in the audience for a chat with the children guests."
July 4, 1927: From the San Francisco Chronicle: "Harry Weber, manager and director of the Rascals, calls attention to the fact that they can weep real tears in a tense dramatic moment. The moment arrives in a scene from 'Uncle Tom's Cabin,' when Jean as Little Eva lies on her death bed, and the rest gather round and implore her not to leave them. And it's perfectly true. They can all cry."
July 4, 1927: From The San Francisco Examiner: "These youngsters put on a sort of revue, with musical comedy in it, a tabloid drama and a burlesque on 'Uncle Tom's Cabin'."
July 5, 1927: The San Francisco Examiner published an article abuot the Gang's visit to the city, which can be accessed by clicking here.
July 5, 1927: From The San Francisco Examiner: "Before leaving their Hal Roach Studios in Culver City for this four weeks theatrical trip, 'Our Gang' went into executive session, and elected Joe Cobb their treasurer, he having been reputed to boast of a bit of Scotch blood and being well known as a saving young person; Farina was nominated the reception committee, as everyone wants to shake hands with him, anyway; Jay Smith was made business manager, Jackie Condon stage manager, while Jean Darling and Mango, being the only representatives of the fair sex, were named the 'ofishul helpers'."
July 7, 1927: From the San Francisco Chronicle: "'Ain't we got fun? Yes!' Children's voices in lusty chorus rang to the rafters in the Orpheum Theater yesterday morning as the youngsters at The Chronicle-Orpheum theater party expressed their joy and approval with three cheers and a tiger. On one side of the footlights were seven famous 'movie' kids and on the other 700 San Francisco orphan youngsters brought in from the various homes, nurseries and orphanages for the party at which they were guests and the stage children hosts. While 'Our Gang' romped through its stage antics with the spontaneous abandon of kids at a party, their little guests registered delight with laughter and shrieks and whistles and applause. And to cap the climax of the joy when the show was over, the audience was invited to the stage to shake hands with the very children they had watched so many times upon the silver screen. 'Aw, gee, I shook hands with Farina,' gleefully recounted one orphan lad to a pal who had been too timid to venture to the unaccustomed side of the footlights. 'He rolled his funny eyes at me and he gave me a little kick on the shin with one of his big shoes.' 'Aw, that's nothing!' interrupted another. 'Leonore sat on Joe Cobb's knee. You know, Joe the fat boy. And all the gang yelled, "Joe's got a girl".' Farina's little sister Aroma, a small replica of himself, little Jean Darling, golden-haired fairy child, Jackie Condon, a repetition of the Coogan legend; Jay Smith and Harry Spear all did their bit in the gang's jolly program of stunts. Jean starred as Little Eva and Farina as Uncle Tom in a modern travesty in three scenes on Uncle Tom's Cabin'."
July 7, 1927: From The Oakland Post-Enquirer regarding Our Gang's upcoming visit: "They all will be in Oakland Saturday morning at 11 o'clock. The Post-Enquirer is arranging a great, rousing reception and every girl and boy in the metropolitan area is invited to be on the job. The reception will begin officially at 9:30 when the child artists arrive at Seventh and Broadway and are greeted by Mayor John L. Davie and other city dignitaries. Under an honorary police escort, the 'Gang' will then ride to the 'Post-Enquirer' building."
July 9, 1927: 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.
July 9, 1927: 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.
July 10, 1927: The Oakland Tribune reported that the Our Gang kids would soon make a personal appearance in that city to perform for some orphans.
July 12, 1927: From the Oakland Tribune: "Rooms of the Press Club of Oakland will be turned into a filmdom rendezvous tomorrow at luncheon when the organization is to be host to Hal Roach's 'Our Gang' . . . Joe Cobb will head the aggregation. Joe, everyone knows, is that rotund youngster who cuts up so many capers that even the rest of the 'gang' cannot keep straight faces. Then there is Farina, the ebony boy of rags and tags. With them will be Farina's sister, Mango, Jay Smith, Jean Darling and Jackie Condon. James Cobb, dad of Joe, will be a guest as will Charles Olzey(sic), assistant film director, and Jack Wall, representing Harry Weber, producer of the act for Hal Roach. Luncheon will begin at 12:15, according to President Luther W. Rood, and members have been urged to be present at that hour in order that the little funmakers may get back to their Orpheum matinee act."
July 12, 1927: From The San Francisco Examiner: "'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."
July 13, 1927: The Oakland Tribune published an article about Our Gang, which can be accessed by clicking here.
July 15, 1927: From The San Francisco Examiner regarding Our Gang: "They come to town again tomorrow, appearing on the new Golden Gate bill . . . They will put on a sort of revue, a tabloid burlesque of 'Uncle Tom's Cabin,' and hold a stage reception for young persons of their own age after each matinee, with the exception of Sunday."
July 18, 1927: From The San Francisco Call and Post: "According to Farina, he would rather be in San Francisco during watermelon season than at any other time. Together with Mango, his little sister, they follow their little noses and ferret out the most luscious melons in the commercial district. Then for a quiet sneak behind a convenient billboard and the watermelon disappears."
July 22, 1927: From the Los Angeles Illustrated Daily News: "'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."
July 22, 1927: From the Los Angeles Times: "The 'Our Gang Kiddies' went to the Orpheum in San Francisco and Oakland and broke every record for attendance in both theaters, a report says."
July 23, 1927: The Our Gang kids performed at a Saturday matinee at the California theater in Salinas.
July 24, 1927: 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.'"
July 24, 1927: From the Los Angeles Times: "'I attribute my tremendous success on the screen to the advice and counsel of my younger sister Aroma,' said Farina, dark-hued fun-maker with Hal Roach's 'Our Gang Kiddies,' when interviewed yesterday prior to his appearance in person with the rest of the 'Gang' at the Orpheum starting today. Mr. Hoskins, which happens to be Farina's real name, admits that he was endowed with all of the natural instincts for fun-making and that he merely took advantage of his own talent. As this was Farina's first interview, he was very careful to impress upon the interviewer that his success was won through hard work and through untiring co-operation with the rest of the 'Gang' and Director Robert McGowan . . . Farina admitted that he found the stage slightly different from the screen, but he also intimated that when one is an artist, the medium of expressing that art is only secondary and that he wouldn't be surprised if he could paint, too. The interviewer did discover that Farina was on the way to becoming one of the best educated young negro children in California and that he is progressing in his studies very rapidly. The personal attention to his education of Director McGowan has helped considerably. 'I'm gonna be an actor when I grow up too,' says Farina."
July 25, 1927: From the Los Angeles Times: "There are seven happy 'kids' in town this morning! And there are seven happier dogs! Our Gang and its canine friends were reunited yesterday morning at Central Station. The Gang has been away, appearing in vaudeville, and its paramount worry has been that 'Ducky,' 'Spot,' 'Woolly' and the other dogs were not being fed properly, but yesterday, when the collection of dogs met the gang at the depot, it was sure everything was all right. The Gang has been quite successful on its vaudeville tour. The Gang's appearance at the Orpheum here this week concludes the tour. It includes Joe Cobb, Farina, Jean Darling, Jackie Condon, Aroma, Harry Speers(sic) and Jay Smith."
July 26, 1927: From the Los Angeles Times regarding the Gang's act: "Next, Farina marches up and plays a very brief violin solo. It cannot be said that the melody is recognizable, but there is no doubt about the honesty of his intentions."
Fall 1927: Farina's salary was raised to 250 dollars a week.
1927/1928: 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 (featured role: Farina): 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 (featured role: Farina): 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 (featured role: Farina): 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 (lead role: Farina): 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 (supporting role: Farina): 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 (featured role): 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: Farina): 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 (featured role: Farina): 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): 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): 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 (lead 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 (supporting role): 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

Mar. 24, 1928: 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.
June 30, 1928: Farina and his sister Jannie took part in a benefit at the Shrine Auditorium called the Negro Musical Review. This was part of a national convention held by the NAACP, and promoted racial equality in the U.S.
Summer 1928: 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 clearly hadn't gotten the memo that Farina was a boy, and had this say about him: "Farina, the little colored girl with the many pig tails and two teeth out in front, has quite a blase air. To the question as to whether she likes to be in the pictures she answered: 'Aw, Yes,' but with a Lord air." About the upcoming trip, she writes: "They are all enthused over the trip, although Farina is much worried over the Gang War in Chicago! One of the placards in the stills they were taking was 'Who's afraid of the Gang War?' and the printing was most evidently that of a member of the Gang." She also mentions that this will be the first time Farina had ever been on a train.
Aug. 4, 1928: From The Afro-American of Baltimore: "Hal Roach, who directs the 'Our Gang' comedies, had a little set-back last week when he made sound film tests of 'Farina' Hoskins' voice. Expecting the youthful star of the formerly silent drama to speak in perfectly good Ethiopian dialect, Roach was surprised to note that he recorded a Bostonian accent. The lad's parents are natives of Boston."
Aug. 14, 1928: 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.
Aug. 14, 1928: 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."
Aug. 15, 1928: 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."
Aug. 16, 1928: 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."
Aug. 16, 1928: 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." As it says: "Farina acknowledged his ovation by rolling his eyes in his usual fashion, when dirty work is contemplated by the gang."
Aug. 16, 1928: 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.
Aug. 17, 1928: From the Kansas City Post: "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."
Aug. 17, 1928: 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...Farina wanted to know if the camera was a 'still' or a movie." On August 19th, this same paper corrected themselves, stating that the party took place at the Morrison Hotel.
Aug. 18, 1928: 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."
Aug. 1928: At some point while in Chicago during this month, Farina visited the offices of the Chicago Defender, which had, over the years, run the Bud Billiken Club, of which Farina was a member. This club promoted harmony between the races, in addition to overall good citizenship, and had members of all races.
Aug. 20, 1928: From the Chicago Daily Tribune regarding 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."
Aug. 24, 1928: From The St. Joseph News-Press (IL): "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."
Aug. 25, 1928: The Gang arrived in Detroit in the morning, and did their first performances at the Michigan Theater that day.
Aug. 26, 1928: From The Detroit Free Press: "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."
Aug. 26, 1928: From The Buffalo Sunday Times regarding the Gang's tour: "None of the 'Gang' expressed any preference for any particular one of the many cities they are going to visit, except Farina, who said that since Boston was his home town he hoped at least a can of beans would be opened there in his honor."
Aug. 27, 1928: From The Detroit Free Press 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."
Aug. 27, 1928: 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.
Aug. 27, 1928: From The Detroit Free Press: "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.
Aug. 27, 1928: From The Detroit Free Press regarding 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."
Aug. 28, 1928: From The Detroit Free Press: "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."
Aug. 30, 1928: From The Detroit Free Press: "At one show...in the midst of their act, Farina happened to look over the footlights into the yawning orchestra pit, which was lowered and bare of musicians. 'Good lawd,' yelled the dusky kid, 'the orchesters busted!'"
Sep. 1, 1928: 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.
Sep. 1, 1928: 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.
Sep. 1, 1928: The Cleveland Press published an article about Our Gang, which can be accessed by clicking here.
Sep. 2, 1928: The Cleveland Plain Dealer published an article about Our Gang, which can be accessed by clicking here.
Sep. 2, 1928: From the Muskogee Daily Phoenix (OK): "'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."
Sep. 5, 1928: From INS 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 Bean as saying that Drummond had "agreed to appear for arraignment before a justice of the peace today."
Sep. 7, 1928: 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."
Sep. 8, 1928: 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."
Sep. 14, 1928: From the Cleveland Plain Dealer: "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."
Sep. 15, 1928: From the Daily News of New York: "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."
Sep. 15, 1928: From The New York World: "A charge that the Hotel Roosevelt drew the color line against Allen Hoskins, the seven-year-old youngster known to thousands of movie goers as Farina of the Our Gang Comedies, was made today by L. A. French, business manager of the 'Gang' on their cross-country tour of personal appearances at motion picture theaters. Mr. French said he wired the Hotel Roosevelt from Chicago for reservations for the 'Gang,' and the official party of 12 accompanying them. He received the following reply, dated September 12 and signed by Kate Pierce Thayer of the Hotel Roosevelt publicity department: 'We can give you 50 per cent reduction on the $10 double rooms but you must make outside reservations for Farina.' Instead, the entourage put up at the Park Central hotel which made no objection to the negro child comedian." On October 1st, The Daily Worker of New York stated that Farina's mother, Florence Hoskins, and his personal manager, L. B. Mathonican, also were barred from staying at the Roosevelt. They also describe the circumstances a bit differently: "Prior to the arrival of the troupe, accommodations were arranged for them at the Roosevelt Hotel, but upon appearing at the hotel the management stated that under no circumstances could they accommodate the three Negro members of the group." On October 11th, The Kansas City American pooh-poohed the situation by saying the following: "Little was thought of the matter as it was reported another hotel in Cleveland had denied reservations for Farina. The Negro papers made quite a hullabaloo about it, and stream-headed the fact that a New York hotel had Jim Crowed the 'Our Gang' outfit." The same paper, on the same day, also reported the following in an article dated October 5th: "A recent visitor to the offices of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People at 69 Fifth Ave., was the celebrated little colored motion picture star, Farina, of the 'Our Gang' comedies. Farina, who came with William Pickens, and was interested in all the mimeographing and other machines in the N. A. A. C. P., and Crisis offices, was introduced to the staff, standing on a desk so that he could see and be seen. His mother, Mrs. Florence Hoskins, who accompanied Farina, said that she believed the N. A. A. C. P. the one organization doing most for the Negro race in America. 'It goes to the roots of the problem,' said Mrs. Hoskins, 'and should have everyone's support.'"
Sep. 19, 1928: From the Standard Union of Brooklyn regarding 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."
Sep. 19, 1928: 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.
Sep. 21, 1928: 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." Sidenote: Herbert Hoover and Al Smith, incidentally, were the two major party presidential candidates in the current election, which was ultimately won by Hoover.
Sep. 23, 1928: 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.
Sep. 24, 1928: The Brooklyn Citizen published an article on the Gang's arrival in Brooklyn, which can be accessed by clicking here.
Sep. 24, 1928: From the Standard Union of Brooklyn: "Joe Cobb still talks about Chinatown and dissertates with authority on the relative merits of Chow Mein and Chop Suey. Farina rolls an eye at you and tells you the odors down there were 'strangest things ah've eveh smelled.' Questioned further, he'll think furiously, grow round-eyed and begin: 'Yeah, we saw robbers and gunmen and Chinamen and opium, an -'-until Joe Cobb breaks in with detailed descriptions of the bandits." 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."
Sep. 24, 1928: From the Cleveland Plain Dealer: "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..."
Sep. 24, 1928: 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 Farina was currently in the third grade.
Sep. 25, 1928: From The Brooklyn Citizen: "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."
Sep. 26, 1928: The Brooklyn Citizen reported that the Gang were guests of honor the previous night at the Hotel Leverich Towers. It also mentions that Farina wanted everybody to know that he was a boy and not a girl. 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."
Sep. 26, 1928: The Brooklyn Daily Times published an article about the Gang, which can be accessed by clicking here.
Sep. 27, 1928: the Standard Union of Brooklyn published an article about the Gang, which can be accessed by clicking here.
Sep. 29, 1928: 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."
Sep. 30, 1928: From the Sunday News of New York: "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.
Oct. 1, 1928: 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.
Oct. 2, 1928: From United Press 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."
Oct. 2, 1928: 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.
Oct. 3, 1928: 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.
Oct. 3, 1928: 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.
Oct. 5, 1928: From the Standard Union of Brooklyn: "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."
Oct. 6, 1928: The Gang began their engagement at Loew's State Theater in St. Louis.
Oct. 6, 1928: From The Afro-American of Baltimore'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."
Oct. 7, 1928: 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.
Oct. 7, 1928: The Tacoma Sunday Ledger (WA) reported that Hal Roach had insured Farina for $50,000.
Oct. 8, 1928: From the St. Louis Daily Globe-Democrat regarding 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."
Oct. 12, 1928: The Gang made a personal appearance in the Junior Section of Boyd's department store in St. Louis at 5 p.m.
Oct. 13, 1928: The Gang arrived in Kansas City and began their engagement at Loew's Midland Theater.
Oct. 13, 1928: The Kansas City Journal-Post published an article about the Gang, which can be accessed by clicking here.
Oct. 18, 1928: From the Kansas City Journal-Post: "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."
Oct. 18, 1928: From The Emporia Daily Gazette (KS): "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."
Oct. 21, 1928: 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."
Oct. 22, 1928: 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.
Fall 1928: Farina's salary was raised to 300 dollars a week.

65. Playin' Hookey (supporting role: Farina): 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 (lead role: Farina): 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): 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 (lead role: Farina): 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: Farina): 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): 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: Farina): 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

Apr. 6, 1929: The Associated Press reported that Farina was currently in the fourth grade.
1929: Farina and his fellow Gangsters were featured in a picture book called A Story Of Our Gang, written by Eleanor Lewis Packer.
1929: In her book Our Gang, Julia Lee reveals that the May 26th issue of the San Diego Union described a trailer made by MGM for the National Spanish Exposition in Barcelona. The short film included a cameo by Farina.
July 1, 1929: A new contract was signed on this date, but it didn't result in a salary increase for Farina. This put to rest a rumor that was circulating that Farina was leaving the series.

Hollywood - The Movieland Of The World (appearance): c. early 1929 - California Scenics - 2 reels - travelogue film; Farina 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 (lead role: Farina): 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 (supporting role): 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 (supporting role): 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 (small part): 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 (lead 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): 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 (small part): 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: Farina): 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 (lead role: Farina): 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): 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. (supporting role): 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.
93. Bouncing Babies (small part: Farina): Oct. 12, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. G-27 - Our Gang series; Filmed July 5 to 15, 1929. ©Sep. 23, 1929.
88. Saturday's Lesson (featured role): 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.
94. Moan & Groan, Inc. (featured role: Farina): Dec. 7, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. G-28 - Our Gang series; Filmed Sep. 3 to 14, 1929. ©Dec. 2, 1929.

1930

Jan. 27, 1930: The stars of Hal Roach Studios, including the Our Gang kids, were featured in a special edition of the radio program "Voices From Filmland" on CBS. This was broadcast from the KHJ studio in Hollywood.
Mar. 21, 1930: From The Chicago Defender out of Los Angeles: "Allan 'Farina' Hoskins, famous 'Our Gang' juvenile movie star, recently had a lingering wish granted when his manager, L. D. Mothanican, surprised him on his ninth birthday with a French bull pup, who answers to the name of Frisk. The gift came after a year's pleading. The young star, a member of The Chicago Defender Bud Billiken club, has found it quite a task to train the pup to speak as Pete, the famous 'Our Gang' dog does, but he has been successful in teaching him to beg and do small errands. When the dog was confined in the animal hospital a few weeks ago, 'Farina' and little Jane were very much depressed over his illness. The pup had eaten something which upset his 'tummy.' As 'Farina' expects to become an explorer after his movie career, Frisk will be of considerable service to his master during the call of the wide open spaces. With the little star's winsome aunt, Miss Edythe Fortier, and petite Miss Dorothy J. S. Williams as audience, Mrs. Hoskins, as the orator, and the writer, as secretary, the beautiful Spanish styled home of America's most famous Race star, witnessed the close of a most interesting interview."
Fall 1930: Farina's salary was raised to 350 dollars a week.

95. Shivering Shakespeare (featured role): Jan. 25, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-29 - Our Gang series; Filmed Sep. 30 to Oct. 12, 1929. ©Dec. 17, 1929.
96. The First Seven Years (supporting role): Mar. 1, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-30 - Our Gang series; Filmed Oct. 28 to Nov. 16, 1929. ©Jan. 20, 1930. Also filmed in Spanish as Los pequeños papas.
97. When The Wind Blows (supporting role: Farina): Apr. 5, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-31 - Our Gang series; Filmed Nov. 29 to Dec. 10, 1929. ©Feb. 10, 1930. Also filmed in Spanish as Las fantasmas.
98. Bear Shooters (featured role: Farina): May 17, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-32 - Our Gang series; Filmed Dec. 19, 1929, to Jan. 4, 1930, and Jan. 21, 1930. Also filmed in Spanish as Los cazadores de osos, as well as in French.
99. A Tough Winter (featured role: Farina): June 21, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-33 - Our Gang series; Filmed Jan. 27 to Feb. 15, 1930. ©Apr. 14, 1930. Also filmed in German as Winter Wetter and in French as Semps d'hiver.
100. Pups Is Pups (featured role: Farina): Aug. 30, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-34 - Our Gang series; Filmed Apr. 21 to May 9, 1930. ©July 2, 1930. Added to the National Film Registry on Dec. 28, 2004.
101. Teacher's Pet (supporting role: Farina): Oct. 11, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-35 - Our Gang series; Filmed May 21 to 29, 1930. ©Nov. 24, 1930. Also made as Spanish version entitled Comenzo la escuela, which used the English original with full-frame cut-in titles, but wasn't accepted by MGM for release in this format.
102. School's Out (featured role: Farina): Nov. 22, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-36 - Our Gang series; Filmed June 17 to 25, 1930.

1931

Mar. 1931: All good things must come to an end, even if it means the departure from Our Gang of its most popular member, Farina, during this month. At this point, he had been in the series longer than any other kid, and ultimately, his total number of appearances would stand as the record among Our Gang kids.
Mar. 26, 1931: From The Northwest Enterprise of Seattle: "'Little Farina' has at last outgrown his part and must go the way of all juvenile stars. He has been given a thirty-day notice, during which time he will complete the usual two pictures a month made by 'Our Gang.' Matthew Beard, a talented little find of Central Casting Director Chas. Butler, has been signed up for the part of the universally loved kid star."
June: Photoplay included a farewell tribute to Farina.
June 6, 1931: Farina returned to the Roach studio and got into costume to pose for some photos along with the other Our Gang kids and some visitors to the studio.
June 7, 1931: The Albuquerque Journal stated that a proposed act featuring Farina and his sister Jannie (billed as Mango) was recently pitched to New York vaudeville agents.
Dec. 17, 1931: The Northwest Enterprise reported that Farina and Jannie had recently played the Stern Bros. Youngster's Theatre in New York.

103. Helping Grandma (supporting role): Jan. 3, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-37 - Our Gang series; Filmed July 28 to Aug. 6, 1930. ©Oct. 1, 1930.
104. Love Business (small part): Feb. 14, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-38 - Our Gang series; Filmed Sep. 3 to 15, 1930, with retakes Sep. 20, 1930. ©Oct. 26, 1930.
105. Little Daddy (featured role: Farina): Mar. 28, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-39 - Our Gang series; Filmed Oct. 30 to Nov. 13, 1930. ©Feb. 6, 1931.
The Stolen Jools (small part): Apr. 4, 1931 - Masquers Club/National Variety Artists/Paramount - 2 reels; The Our Gang kids are among the multitude of stars featured in this short.
106. Bargain Day (supporting role: Farina): May 2, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-40 - Our Gang series; Filmed Dec. 14 to 23, 1930, with retakes Jan. 26 to Feb. 2, 1931. ©Mar. 23, 1931.
107. Fly My Kite (supporting role: Farina): May 30, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-41 - Our Gang series; Filmed Mar. 2 to 14, 1931. ©May 7, 1931.
unspecified title (archival): circa 1931 - Roach - Mary Ann Jackson trailer; This was shown in theaters that were scheduled to have a personal appearance from Mary Ann in the very near future. Farina is shown in outtake footage from "Bargain Day."

1932

Circa 1932: It was reported that Farina was singing bass in his local church choir. This would have to be, however, in between touring dates.
Feb. 12, 1932: During his latest tour, Farina stopped in Toronto, debuting there on this date. The Toronto Star gave a few details, including the fact that Montreal had been their previous stop, and that sister Jannie did a dance routine as part of the act. Farina sang two songs, "Home (Where Shadows Fall)" and "Save The Last Dance For Me."
Apr. 24, 1932: The Daily Capital News and Post-Tribune of Jefferson City, MO, announced Farina's performance that day in their city.
Late 1932: It appears that this act was short-lived, as Farina was back in Hollywood by the end of the year, finding occasional small parts in features. It's also apparent that his professional life was on an occasional basis, since around this time he started attending William McKinley Junior High in Los Angeles.

The Voice Of Hollywood (appearance as host): Jan. 17, 1932 - Lewyn/Tiffany - 1 reel; This was No. 13 in the Second Series.
You Said A Mouthful (supporting role: Sam Wellington aka Poor Sam): Dec. 8, 1932 - First National/Warner Bros. - 7 reels - Joe E. Brown feature; ©Dec. 8, 1932.

1933

120. Fish Hooky (small part: Farina): Jan. 28, 1933 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-13 - Our Gang series; Filmed Oct. 17 to 22, 1932. ©Jan. 16, 1933.
The Life Of Jimmy Dolan (supporting role: Sam): Jun. 3, 1933 - Warner Bros. - 9 reels - Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. & Loretta Young feature; ©June 12, 1933.
The Mayor Of Hell (supporting role: Smoke): Jun. 3, 1933 - Warner Bros. - 9 reels - James Cagney feature; ©July 1, 1933.

1934

Jan. 8, 1934: A news item mentions a 20th anniversary party for Hal Roach Studios, which was to include Farina on its guest list.

1935

Sep. 25, 1935: A Hal Roach Studios press release from this date states that Farina was currently doing radio, stage and screen work.
Circa 1935: Farina started attending Thomas Jefferson High School in Los Angeles.

Reckless (small role: Gold Dust): Apr. 19, 1935 - MGM - 10 reels - Jean Harlow & William Powell feature; ©Apr. 16, 1935.

1936

1936: A Hal Roach Studios press release states that Farina had recently returned from a vaudeville tour.
Apr. 8, 1936: Farina was scheduled to be among the old-timers of the Our Gang series to see the younger set off as they embarked on their personal appearance tour.
July 18, 1936: Farina was present at Hal Roach Studios for the 15th anniversary celebration of Our Gang, posing for several photos with his fellow Gangsters.

Fox Movietone News (appearance): 1936 - Fox - 1 reel - newsreel; Our Gang's fifteenth anniversary is featured in a Hollywood Spotlight segment with Jimmie Fidler.
The Gorgeous Hussy (role: pageboy at ball): Aug. 28, 1936 - MGM - 10 reels; ©Sep. 1, 1936. Starring Joan Crawford, Robert Taylor, Lionel Barrymore, and James Stewart.
Winterset (bit part: Hambone): Dec. 3, 1936 - RKO - 8 reels; ©Dec. 3, 1936. Farina's involvement is according to IMDB. Starring Burgess Meredith and Margo.
After The Thin Man (role: Screwy): Dec. 25, 1936 - MGM - 10 reels - Thin Man feature; ©Dec. 21, 1936. Starring William Powell and Myrna Loy.

1937

1937: A Hal Roach Studios press release states that Farina was still in vaudeville, doing his "song and dance act" with his sister.
Oct. 1937: In a questionnaire, St. Louis moviegoers ranked Farina as the 29th most popular child star (in a tie with Mickey McGuire) with 7 votes out of 57,599. Shirley Temple received almost 20,000 of the votes.

1939

Feb. 4, 1939: From the Norfolk New Journal Guide: "Our Gang comedies have been standard fare for theatre goers for many years and one of the best known members is 'Farina,' the little boy who was taken for a girl for many years. Today he has arrived at that awkward age and Hollywood has nothing for him to do. But this has not caused Mrs. Florence Hoskins, mother and guide of the youth's theatrical life to despair. Notwithstanding the limitations placed on people because of color in Hollywood, she has kept 'Farina' in touch with the motion picture industry by getting small parts in feature length pictures and adding to his knowledge with intensive study. 'Farina' will soon graduate from high school where he has been studying directing and lighting, very important phases of the motion picture industry. In an attempt to get in a company where he will get the best chance, he plans to enter the George Randol Productions, Inc. In adding 'Farina' to his roster, George Randol is getting a person who has literally lived in the motion picture industry. Soon after Our Gang comedies were started by Hal Roach, 'Farina' was selected to be the screen sister of Sunshine Sammy Morrison and the impression of a small child in ill fitting clothes was flashed to the world. After Sunshine Sammy outgrew his roles, 'Farina' remained with the gang and finally became the colored boy in the series. His fame grew and the youth made a small fortune in pictures. His mother has been his guiding light and has been able to save his earnings better than the parents of any other colored child in the industry. Today she is a successful real estate operator."

1940

Aug. 1940: Allen volunteered to serve in the Army.

1941

June 18, 1941: Pvt. Allen Hoskins was stationed during this period at the Presidio in Monterey, CA, where he was tracked down by a reporter, resulting in a newspaper story in the Altoona Mirror on this date.

1942

1942: A rumor circulated that Pvt. Hoskins had been killed in action while stationed in Australia.

1945

1945: By this time, Hoskins had become a sergeant in the Air Corps. By his last day of service, he was stationed at Fort Roach, as the Roach studio was called while commandeered by the military during WWII. By this time, he had seen action in the Pacific five times and had received a presidential citation. He was, at the time, planning to write and produce for the stage, and had written a musical while stationed in Australia. After the war ended, Hoskins went on various auditions before looking for other ways to make a living. There's also some indication that he majored in drama in college, and that this was after the war. Sources vary between Los Angeles City College and Los Angeles Community College as the location.

1950

1950: The Amos 'N' Andy TV series was first filmed during this year. Farina had returned to the Roach studio to unsuccessfully audition for the series, though the auditions went as far back as 1946. It might be that the audition took place in 1949, as Farina indicated in the 1953 "You Asked For It" episode that he left show business about four years earlier.

1951

Sep. 10, 1951: The Mirror of Los Angeles published an article about the Our Gang series. Farina was reported to have currently been a file clerk with the Veterans Administration in Sawtelle.

1952

1952: Allen's days of auditioning seem to have come to a permanent end during this year when he was called before the House Un-American Activities Commmittee. As a teenager, he had attended dances sponsored by the Young Communist League and the Socialist Workers Party, and this revelation led to him being blacklisted in Hollywood. Not that it made any tangible difference to his career, since he wasn't finding any work anyway. After this, he found various regular jobs, such as washing dishes and painting houses.

1953

You Asked For It episode (appearance): Jul. 27, 1953 - ABC - 30 min. - TV episode; Hosted by Art Baker. The silent era Our Gang kids are reunited, along with Bob McGowan, Art Lloyd and Fern Carter.

1955

1955: Though Allen didn't take part in the TV Guide reunion from this year, the article mentioned that he was "touring with his own review." This seems more likely to refer to Eugene Jackson, who was erroneously using the "Farina" moniker around this time.
1955: Sometime during the 1950's, Allen entered the field of rehabilitation. A plaque dedicated to him years later stated that he was in this field for 25 years, which would make 1955 the starting point.

1956

1956: Debuting this year, and continuing until 1962, was a comic book called The Little Rascals, which included Farina in its cast of characters, though he's interchanged with Buckwheat in the earliest issues.

1959

Take A Good Look episode (appearance): Oct. 22, 1959 - Mansfield-Arnell/ABC - 30 min. - TV episode; Hosted by Ernie Kovacs. Farina appeared along with Jean Darling, Jay R. Smith, Jack Davis, Sherwood Bailey and Johnny Downs.

1963

1963: By this time, Allen was the Sheltered Workshop Director at Sonoma State Hospital in Edridge, CA. He had probably been at this place for the last several years, but this is the earliest point of verification. In his spare time, he also became a youth advocate in his neighborhood of South Park in Santa Rosa.

1965

1965: Allen left Sonoma State Hospital and moved his family to Hayward, CA, where he got a position as Sheltered Workshop Director at the Hayward Retarded Children's Center on Walpert St., part of the Association for Retarded Children of Southern Alameda County. As an advocate for disabled people, he was often written about in the local newspapers, without mention of his illustrious past.

1968

1968: An article in the Oakland Tribune reveals that Allen was President of the Bay Area Association of Rehabilitation Workshops, which sought manufacturing contracts for their network of workshops, which employed people with various physical and mental disabilities.
July 28, 1968: From Herb Caen in his syndicated column: "You know about Augie Martin? For a time, he played lovable little Farina in the Our Gang comedies, so near and dear to children of our generation. After graduating from Cal, he became one of the first Negro pilots to be employed by major airlines - most recently Seaboard World Airways, on flights out of New York and here (San Francisco). During his vacation this year, he volunteered to fly Red Cross supplies into ravaged Biafra - and while trying to land his Constellation on a tiny field, he crashed. Killed instantly." Martin alternately claimed to have played Buckwheat.

1969

Feb. 1969: Allen was chosen to be Director of the 10th Annual Conference on Rehabilitation Workshops. He was, by this point, director of the Hayward Retarded Children's Center.

1975

Feb. 16, 1975: Farina was inducted into the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame in a ceremony held at the Paramount Theatre in Oakland, CA. It was reported that Hoskins was still working in the rehabilitation field, in addition to writing an autobiography and a radio series, and heading his own company for creative projects called ALFRAN.

1976

Mar. 24, 1976: The Oakland Tribune reported that Allen was using his free time advising young actors on how to learn their craft at a local nonprofit group, the Experimental Group Young People's Theatre Co.

It's Showtime (archival): April 1976 - Weintraub-Heller/UA - 85 min. - compilation feature; Includes footage from "Monkey Business."

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 "Shivering Shakespeare."

1979

1979: Allen at this point was Public Information Officer for the Alameda County Chapter of the Association for Retarded Children.

1980

July 26, 1980: After contracting cancer, Allen passed away at the age of 59.

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

Oct. 25, 1984: A new ARC building was dedicated to Allen's memory, in recognition of his significant contributions to aiding the developmentally disabled.

Our Gang: Inside The Clubhouse (archival): May 8, 1984 - Lang/Camellia City Telecasters - 93 mins. - TV documentary; Includes footage from "The Big Show," "The Sun Down Limited," "Thundering Fleas," "The First Seven Years," "Teacher's Pet," "School's Out," and "You Asked For It."

1986

Classic Comedy Teams (archival): 1986 - Bergamn-Harris/Movietime/GoodTimes - video documentary; Includes footage from "School's Out" and "The Stolen Jools."

1994

Hal Roach: Hollywood's King Of Laughter (appearance): Apr. 7, 1994 - RHI/Disney Channel - 49 min. - TV documentary; Includes footage from "Bear Shooters" and "School's Out."
The Our Gang Story (archival): 1994 - Film Shows/GoodTimes - 120 min. - video documentary; Includes footage from "Fire Fighters," "The Champeen!" "Giants Vs. Yanks," "Dogs Of War!" "The Sun Down Limited," "Monkey Business," "Shivering Spooks," "The First Seven Years," "Bear Shooters," "School's Out," "The Stolen Jools," "Fly My Kite," "Fox Movietone News" 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."

2000

Bamboozled (archival): Oct. 20, 2000 - 40 Acres/New Line - 135 min. - color - Dolby; Includes footage from "School's Out."

2002

Feb. 5, 2002: A children's novel by Dav Pilkey called The Adventures Of Super Diaper Baby was published. This was a spin-off of Pilkey's popular "Captain Underpants" series of novels. Included in the cast of characters for the new novels are the two main characters of the series, George Beard and Harold Hutchins, named after Stymie and Wheezer of the Our Gang films. Super Diaper Baby's real name is Billy Hoskins, a reference to Farina. In this novel, it's also revealed that George owns two cats, named Porky and Buckwheat.

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," "Cat, Dog & Co." and "Saturday's Lesson"

Farina Hoskins' payroll history

The following is a list of most of Farina'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.

It was in March 1922 that we first encounter Farina in the payroll ledgers.

Mar. 11, 1922 - 30.00 charged to prod. A2 (Fire Fighters)
Farina made three paychecks during this week as a day player. The first was a $15 check for two days of work, while the second and third were each for $7.50.

After this, Farina was absent from the studio for at least one week.

Mar. 25, 1922 - 7.50 charged to prod. A2
Presumably for the sake of retakes, Farina did one day of shooting during this week.

With his work on "Fire Fighters" finished, Farina was again absent for at least one week.

Apr. 8, 1922 - 30.00 charged to prod. A3 (Young Sherlocks)
Still a day worker, Farina was given a check for $30 during this week, implying that he did four days of work.

Production A3 seems to have run into problems, since it stopped shooting for two weeks. Farina is absent from the ledger during the interim.

Apr. 29, 1922 - 15.00 charged to prod. A3
Farina was given a check for $15 during this week, implying that he did two days of work.
May 6, 1922 - 22.50 charged to prod. A3
Farina was given a check for $22.50 during this week, implying that he did three days of work.
May 13, 1922 - 15.00 charged to prod. A3
Farina was given a check for $15 during this week, implying that he did two days of work.
May 20, 1922 - 45.00 charged to prod. A3
Farina was given four checks during this week. The first three were for $7.50 each, while the fourth was for $22.50, implying that he did six days of work.
May 27, 1922 - 37.50 charged to prod. A4 (One Terrible Day)
Still a day worker, Farina was given a check for $37.50, implying that he did five days of work.
June 3, 1922 - 30.00 charged to prod. A4
Farina was given a check for $30 during this week, implying that he did four days of work.
June 10, 1922 - 52.50 charged to prod. A4
Farina was given a check for $52.50 during this week, implying that he did seven days of work. Filming actually took place on Sunday, the 4th, to compensate for the Memorial Day holiday the previous week.

Because Farina was absent from the fifth Our Gang film, "A Quiet Street," he doesn't appear in the ledger for about a month. However, there was a check for $7.50 made out to F. Hoskins during the week ending June 24th. This might have been Farina, but it could just have easily been his mother Florence, since both are routinely listed in the ledgers as F. Hoskins. If it was Farina, then he either appeared in "A Quiet Street" without turning up in any available prints, or he appeared in "Newly Rich" with Snub Pollard, "The Green Cat" with Snub Pollard, "Bone Dry" with Paul Parrott, or "Dr. Jack" with Harold Lloyd. Or his mother did. Adding to the confusion is the name just below this, which is Mrs. A. Hoskins making $5. If it wasn't the initial, this might be Farina's mother, but it might be some other relative.

July 15, 1922 - 30.00 charged to prod. A6 (Saturday Morning)
Still a day worker, Farina was given a check for $30, implying that he did four days of work.
July 22, 1922 - 45.00 charged to prod. A6
Farina was given two checks during this week, the first for $37.50 and the second for $7.50, implying that he did six days of work.
July 29, 1922 - 22.50
Farina was given a check for $22.50 during this week, implying that he did three days of work. The week was evenly divided between three productions, with two days going towards "A Quiet Street," which Farina didn't appear in, two days towards "Saturday Morning," and two days towards "The Big Show." Farina's three days are likely to have been divided between the latter two productions.
Aug. 5, 1922 - 37.50 charged to prod. A7 (The Big Show)
Still a day worker, Farina was given a check for $37.50, implying that he did five days of work.
Aug. 12, 1922 - 45.00 charged to prod. A7
Farina was given a check for $45 during this week, implying that he did six days of work.
Aug. 19, 1922 - 45.00 - 15.00 charged to prod. A7, 30.00 charged to prod. A8 (The Cobbler)
Farina was given two checks during this week, the first for $15 and the second for $30. Since the Our Gang unit worked on "The Big Show" for two days and "The Cobbler" for four days, this should explain the check amounts at $7.50 per day.
Aug. 26, 1922 - 45.00 charged to prod. A8
Farina was given a check for $45 during this week, implying that he did six days of work.
Sep. 2, 1922 - 45.00 charged to prod. A8
Farina was given a check for $45 during this week, implying that he did six days of work.
Sep. 9, 1922 - 37.50 charged to prod. A8
Farina was given a check for $37.50 during this week, implying that he did five days of work.
Sep. 16, 1922 - 37.50 charged to prod. A7
Farina was given a check for $37.50 during this week, implying that he did five days of work.
Sep. 23, 1922 - 45.00 - 30.00 charged to prod. A7, 15.00 charged to prod. A8
Farina was signed to a long-term contract effective this week. There was also a $15 check for him (as a day player) that was scratched out on the ledger.
Sep. 30, 1922 - 45.00 - 18.75 charged to prod. A7, 26.25 charged to prod. A8
Oct. 7, 1922 - 45.00 charged to prod. A10 (Boys To Board)
Oct. 14, 1922 - 45.00 charged to prod. A10
Oct. 21, 1922 - 45.00 charged to prod. A10
Oct. 28, 1922 - 45.00 charged to prod. A10
Nov. 4, 1922 - 45.00 - 26.25 charged to prod. A10, 18.75 charged to prod. A11 (A Pleasant Journey)
Nov. 11, 1922 - 45.00 charged to prod. A11
Nov. 18, 1922 - 45.00 - 30.00 charged to prod. A11, 15.00 charged to prod. A12 (Giants Vs. Yanks)
Nov. 25, 1922 - 45.00 charged to prod. A12
Dec. 2, 1922 - 45.00 charged to prod. A12
Dec. 9, 1922 - 45.00 charged to prod. A12
Dec. 16, 1922 - 45.00 - 30.00 charged to prod. A12, 15.00 charged to prod. A13 (Back Stage)
Somebody named A. Hoskins worked on "Back Stage" as an extra, making $5 on both Dec. 15th and 16th. Could this be the same Mrs. A. Hoskins from June 24th?, or is it a different relative. Farina's actual name was Allen, but he was already making his weekly salary during this time.
Dec. 23, 1922 - 45.00 - 3.75 charged to prod. A12, 41.25 charged to prod. A13
Dec. 30, 1922 - 45.00 charged to prod. A13
Jan. 6, 1923 - 45.00 charged to prod. A13
Jan. 13, 1923 - 45.00 - 15.00 charged to prod. A13, 15.00 charged to prod. A14 (Dogs Of War!), 15.00 charged to prod. A7
Jan. 20, 1923 - 45.00 charged to prod. A14
Jan. 27, 1923 - 45.00 charged to prod. A14
Feb. 3, 1923 - 45.00 charged to prod. A14
Feb. 10, 1923 - 45.00 charged to prod. A14
Feb. 17, 1923 - 45.00 - 3.75 charged to prod. A12, 41.25 charged to prod. A15 (Lodge Night)
Feb. 24, 1923 - 45.00 - 18.75 charged to prod. A14, 26.25 charged to prod. A15
Mar. 3, 1923 - 45.00 - 7.50 charged to prod. A13, 37.50 charged to prod. A15
Mar. 10, 1923 - 45.00 charged to prod. A16 (Fast Company)
Mar. 17, 1923 - 60.00 - 50.00 charged to prod. A16, 10.00 charged to prod. A17 (Stage Fright)
The 1922 studio datebook has a note in it stating that Farina's salary was to be increased to $50 on Mar. 18th of the following year. This was also entered into the 1923 ledger. Judging by the actual increase to $60, Farina's value to the studio must have been more obvious than it had been just a few months earlier.
Mar. 24, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A17
Mar. 31. 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A17
Apr. 7, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A17
Apr. 14, 1923 - 60.00 - 30.00 charged to prod. A17, 30.00 charged to prod. A18 (July Days)
Apr. 21, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A18
Apr. 28, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A18
May 5, 1923 - 60.00 - 30.00 charged to prod. A18, 30.00 charged to prod. A19 (Sunday Calm)
May 12, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A19
May 19, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A19
May 26, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A19
June 2, 1923 - 60.00 - 12.00 charged to prod. A18, 24.00 charged to prod. A19, 24.00 charged to prod. A20 (No Noise)
June 9, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A20
June 16, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A20
June 23, 1923 - 60.00 - 20.00 charged to prod. A17, 40.00 charged to prod. A20
June 30, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A17
July 7, 1923 - 60.00 - 12.00 charged to prod. A17, 48.00 charged to prod. A19
July 14, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A19
July 21, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A21 (Derby Day)
July 28, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A21
Aug. 4, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A21
Aug. 11, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A21
Aug. 18, 1923 - 60.00 - 10.00 charged to prod. A21, 50.00 charged to prod. A22 (Tire Trouble)
Aug. 25, 1923 - 60.00 charged to prod. A22
Sep. 1, 1923 - 70.00 charged to prod. A22
Sep. 8, 1923 - 70.00 - 28.00 charged to prod. A22, 42.00 charged to prod. A23 (Big Business)
Sep. 15, 1923 - 70.00 charged to prod. A23
Sep. 22, 1923 - 70.00 charged to prod. A23
Sep. 29, 1923 - 70.00 - 35.00 charged to prod. A23, 35.00 charged to prod. A24 (The Buccaneers)
Oct. 6, 1923 - 70.00 charged to prod. A24
Oct. 13, 1923 - 70.00 charged to prod. A24
Oct. 20, 1923 - 70.00 charged to prod. A24
Oct. 27, 1923 - 70.00 - 35.00 charged to prod. A24, 35.00 charged to prod. A25 (Seein' Things)
Nov. 3, 1923 - 70.00 charged to prod. A25
Nov. 10, 1923 - 70.00 - 40.00 charged to prod. A25, 30.00 charged to prod. A26 (Commencement Day)
Nov. 17, 1923 - 70.00 charged to prod. A26
Nov. 24, 1923 - 70.00 charged to prod. A26
Dec. 1, 1923 - 70.00 charged to prod. A26
The mysterious A. Hoskins turns up in the ledger again for this week, making $10 on Nov. 26th.
Dec. 8, 1923 - 70.00 - 35.00 charged to prod. A26, 35.00 charged to prod. A27 (It's A Bear)
Dec. 15, 1923 - 70.00 charged to prod. A27
Dec. 22, 1923 - 70.00 - 10.00 charged to prod. A25, 60.00 charged to prod. A27
Dec. 29, 1923 - 70.00 charged to prod. A27
Jan. 5, 1924 - 70.00 charged to prod. A27
Jan. 12, 1924 - 70.00 - 3.89 charged to prod. A25, 50.55 charged to prod. A26, 15.56 charged to prod. A27
Jan. 19, 1924 - 70.00 charged to prod. A27
Jan. 26, 1924 - 70.00 charged to prod. A26
Feb. 2, 1924 - 70.00 charged to prod. A28 (Cradle Robbers)
Feb. 9, 1924 - 70.00 charged to prod. A28
Feb. 16, 1924 - 70.00 charged to prod. A28
Feb. 23, 1924 - 70.00 charged to prod. A28
Mar. 1, 1924 - 80.00 charged to prod. A29 (Jubilo, Jr.)
Mar. 8, 1924 - 85.00 - 21.25 charged to prod. A27, 63.75 charged to prod. A29
Mar. 15, 1924 - 85.00 - 42.50 charged to prod. A27, 42.50 charged to prod. A29
Mar. 22, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A29
Mar. 29, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A30 (High Society)
Apr. 5, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A30
Apr. 12, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A30
Apr. 19, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A30
Apr. 26, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A31 (The Sun Down Limited)
May 3, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A31
May 10, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A31
May 17, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A31
May 24, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A31
May 31, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A31
June 7, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A32 (Every Man For Himself)
June 14, 1924 - 85.00 - 28.33 charged to prod. A16 (Fast Company), 56.67 charged to prod. A32
June 21, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A16
June 28, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A16
July 5, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A33 (The Mysterious Mystery!)
July 12, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A33
July 19, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A33
July 26, 1924 - 85.00 - 70.83 charged to prod. A33, 14.17 charged to prod. E8 (Tame Men And Wild Women)
Aug. 2, 1924 - 85.00 charged to prod. A33
Aug. 9, 1924 - 85.00 - 42.50 charged to prod. A33, 42.50 charged to prod. A34 (The Big Town)
Aug. 16, 1924 - 20.00 charged to prod. A34
The studio was closed for three weeks in August 1924, resulting in a lower rate for Farina.
Aug. 23, 1924 - 20.00 charged to studio overhead
Aug. 30, 1924 - 20.00 - 10.00 charged to prod. A33, 10.00 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 - 100.00 charged to prod. A40
Mar. 14, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A40
Mar. 21, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A41 (Mary, Queen Of Tots)
Mar. 28, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A41
Apr. 4, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A41
Apr. 11, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A41
Apr. 18, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A42 (Boys Will Be Joys)
Apr. 25, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A42
May 2, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A42
May 9, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A42
May 16, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A42
May 23, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A42
May 30, 1925 - 100.00 - 40.00 charged to prod. A42, 60.00 charged to prod. A43 (Better Movies)
June 6, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A43
June 13, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A43
June 20, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A43
June 27, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. A43
Note: This production was subsequently renumbered K1, as the Animal Co. was renamed the Kid Co.
July 4, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. K2 (Your Own Back Yard)
July 11, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. K2
July 18, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. K2
July 25, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. K2
Aug. 1, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. K2
Aug. 8, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. K2
Aug. 15, 1925 - 100.00 charged to prod. K2
Aug. 22, 1925 - 20.00 charged to prod. K2
The studio was closed for two weeks, resulting in a reduced salary for Farina.
Aug. 29, 1925 - 20.00 charged to prod. K4 (Good Cheer)
Sep. 5, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K4
Sep. 12, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K4
Sep. 19, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K4
Sep. 26, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K4
Oct. 3, 1925 - 125.00 - 62.50 charged to prod. K4, 62.50 charged to prod. K5 (Buried Treasure)
Oct. 10, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K5
Oct. 17, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K5
Oct. 24, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K5
Oct. 31, 1925 - 125.00 - 104.17 charged to prod. K5, 20.83 charged to prod. K6 (Monkey Business)
Nov. 7, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K6
Nov. 14, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K6
Nov. 21, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K6
Nov. 28, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K6
Dec. 5, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K6
Dec. 12, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K7 (Baby Clothes)
Dec. 19, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K7
Dec. 26, 1925 - 125.00 charged to prod. K7

There were no ledger sheets for the week ending Jan. 2nd, due to the studio being closed, but Farina was still paid his $125.

Jan. 9, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K7
Jan. 16, 1926 - 125.00 - 20.83 charged to prod. K7, 104.17 charged to prod. K8 (Uncle Tom's Uncle)
Jan. 23, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K8
Jan. 30, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K8
Feb. 6, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K8
Feb. 13, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K8
Feb. 20, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K8
Feb. 27, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K9 (Thundering Fleas)
Mar. 6, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K9
Mar. 13, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K9
Mar. 20, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K9
Mar. 27, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K9
Apr. 3, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K9
Apr 10, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K10 (Shivering Spooks)
Apr. 17, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K10
Apr. 24, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K10
May 1, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K10
May 8, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K10
May 15, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K10
May 22, 1926 - 125.00 charged to prod. K10
May 29, 1926 - 150.00 charged to prod. K11 (The Fourth Alarm!)
June 5, 1926 - 150.00 charged to prod. K11
June 12, 1926 - 150.00 charged to prod. K11
June 19, 1926 - 150.00 charged to prod. K11
June 26, 1926 - 150.00 charged to prod. K11
July 3, 1926 - 300.00 - 150.00 charged to prod. K11 (War Feathers), 150.00 vacation pay

For four weeks during July, the studio was closed for summer vacation, resulting in a lower rate for Farina, though he did get the extra $150 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 - 150.00 charged to prod. K12
Aug. 14, 1926 - 150.00 charged to prod. K12
Aug. 21, 1926 - 150.00 charged to prod. K12
Aug. 28, 1926 - 218.33 - 158.33 charged to prod. K12, 60.00 charged to prod. K11
The note in the ledger for this unusual amount explains: "balance due on suspense amount for 3 wks in July, corrected by auditors reversing entry."
Sep. 4, 1926 - 208.33 charged to prod. K12
Sep. 11, 1926 - 200.00 - 120.00 charged to prod. K13 (Seeing The World), 80.00 charged to prod. K14 (Telling Whoppers)
Sep. 18, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K14
Sep. 25, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K14
Oct. 2, 1926 - 200.00 - 66.67 charged to prod. K14, 133.33 charged to prod. K15 (Bring Home The Turkey)
Oct. 9, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K15
Oct. 16, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K15
Oct. 23, 1926 - 200.00 - 166.67 charged to prod. K15, 33.33 charged to prod. K13
Oct. 30, 1926 - 200.00 - 133.33 charged to prod. K13, 66.67 charged to prod. K15
Nov. 6, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K13
Nov. 13, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K13
Nov. 20, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K13
Nov. 27, 1926 - 200.00 - 66.67 charged to prod. K13, 133.33 charged to prod. K16 (Ten Years Old)
Dec. 4, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K16
Dec. 11, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K16
Dec. 18, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K16
Dec. 25, 1926 - 200.00 charged to prod. K17 (Love My Dog)
Jan. 1, 1927 - 200.00 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 Farina'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 - 200.00 charged to prod. K17
Jan. 15, 1927 - 200.00
Jan. 22, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K18 (Tired Business Men)
Jan. 29, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K18
Feb. 5, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K18
Feb. 12, 1927 - 200.00
Feb. 19, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K19 (Baby Brother)
Feb. 26, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K19
Mar. 5, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K19
Mar. 12, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K19
Mar. 19, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K19
Mar. 26, 1927 - 200.00
Apr. 2, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K20 (Chicken Feed)
Apr. 9, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K20
Apr. 16, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K20
Apr. 23, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K21 (Olympic Games)
Apr. 30, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K21
May 7, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K21
May 14, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K22 (The Glorious Fourth)
May 21, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K22
May 28, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K23 (Playin' Hookey)
June 4, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K23
June 11, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K23
June 18, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. G1 (Yale Vs. Harvard)
June 25, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. G1
July 2, 1927 - 200.00 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 Farina wasn't paid during this stretch, but the payroll summaries indicate that he was.

Aug. 6, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. K24
Aug. 13, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. G2 (The Old Wallop)
Aug. 20, 1927 - 200.00 charged to prod. G2
Aug. 27, 1927 - 208.33
Juding by the amount, Farina's salary increase probably took place on Aug. 27th.
Sep. 3, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G3 (Heebee Jeebees)
Sep. 10, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G3
Sep. 17, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G3 and G4 (Dog Heaven)
It isn't clear whether Farina's salary was split in half between the two productions, or perhaps 1/3 for G3 and 2/3 for G4.
Sep. 24, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G4
Oct. 1, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G3 and G4
It isn't clear whether Farina'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 - 250.00 charged to prod. G4
Oct. 15, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G4 and G5 (Spook-Spoofing)
It appears that Farina's salary was probably split 5/12 for G4 and 7/12 for G5.
Oct. 22, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G5
Oct. 29, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G5
Nov. 5, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G4 and G6 (Rainy Days)
It appears that Farina's salary was probably split 1/3 for G4 and 2/3 for G6.
Nov. 12, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G6
Nov. 19, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G6
Nov. 26, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G6
Dec. 3, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G6
Dec. 10, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G6
Dec. 17, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G6 and G7 (Edison, Marconi & Co.)
It appears that Farina's salary was probably split 5/6 for G6 and 1/6 for G7.
Dec. 24, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G6, G7 and G8 Barnum & Ringling, Inc.)
It appears that Farina's salary was probably split 14/36 for G6, 11/36 for G7 and 11/36 for G8.
Dec. 31, 1927 - 250.00 charged to prod. G6, G7 and G8
It appears that Farina'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 Farina's history.

Jan. 7, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G8
Jan. 14, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G8
Jan. 21, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G9 (Fair And Muddy)
Jan. 28, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G9
Feb. 4, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G9
Feb. 11, 1928 - 250.00 - 166.67 charged to prod. G9, 83.33 charged to prod. G10 (Crazy House)
Feb. 18, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G10
Feb. 25, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G10
Mar. 3, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G11 (Growing Pains)
Mar. 10, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G11
Mar. 17, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G11
Mar. 24, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G11

The studio was closed during the spring, resulting in Farina 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 - 250.00 charged to prod. G12 (The Ol' Gray Hoss)
May 12, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G12
May 19, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G12
May 26, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G12
June 2, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G12
June 9, 1928 - 250.00 - 125.00 charged to prod. G12, 125.00 charged to prod. G13 (School Begins)
June 16, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G13
June 23, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G13
June 30, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G13
July 7, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G14 (The Spanking Age)
July 14, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G14
July 21, 1928 - 250.00 - 125.00 charged to prod. G14, 125.00 charged to prod. G15 (Election Day)
July 28, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G15
Aug. 4, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G15
Aug. 11, 1928 - 250.00 charged to prod. G15
Aug. 18, 1928 - 250.00 charged to Gang Tour
Farina and his fellow Gangsters spent a couple of months on a personal appearance tour.
Aug. 25, 1928 - 250.00 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 - 300.00 charged to Gang Tour
Sep. 8, 1928 - 300.00 charged to Gang Tour
Sep. 15, 1928 - 300.00 charged to Gang Tour
Sep. 22, 1928 - 300.00 charged to Gang Tour
Sep. 29, 1928 - 300.00 charged to Gang Tour
Oct. 6, 1928 - 300.00 charged to Gang Tour
Oct. 13, 1928 - 300.00 charged to Gang Tour
Oct. 20, 1928 - 300.00 charged to Gang Tour
Oct. 27, 1928 - 300.00 charged to prod. G16 (Noisy Noises)
Nov. 3, 1928 - 300.00 charged to prod. G16
Nov. 10, 1928 - 300.00 charged to prod. G16
Nov. 17, 1928 - 300.00 charged to prod. G16
Nov. 24, 1928 - 300.00 charged to prod. G17 (The Holy Terror)
Dec. 1, 1928 - 300.00 charged to prod. G17
Dec. 8, 1928 - 300.00 charged to prod. G18 (Wiggle Your Ears)
Dec. 15, 1928 - 300.00 - 75.00 charged to prod. G18, 225.00 charged to prod. G19 (Fast Freight)
Dec. 22, 1928 - 300.00 charged to prod. G19
Dec. 29, 1928 - 300.00 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 Farina.
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 - 300.00 charged to prod. G20 (Little Mother)
Feb. 9, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G20
Feb. 16, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G20
Feb. 23, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G21 (Cat, Dog & Co.)
Mar. 2, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G21
Mar. 9, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G22 (Saturday's Lesson)
Mar. 16, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G22
Mar. 23, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G22
Mar. 30, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G23 (Small Talk)
Apr. 6, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G23
Apr. 13, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G23
Apr. 20, 1929 - 300.00 - 100.00 charged to prod. G23, 200.00 charged to prod. G24 (Railroadin')
Apr. 27, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G24
May 4, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G24
May 11, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G24
May 18, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G25 (Boxing Gloves)
May 25, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G25
June 1, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G25
June 8, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G25
June 15, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G26 (Lazy Days)
June 22, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G26
June 29, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G26
July 6, 1929 - 300.00 - 200.00 charged to prod. G26, 100.00 charged to prod. G27 (Bouncing Babies)
July 13, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G27
July 20, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G27
July 27, 1929 - 300.00 - 250.00 charged to prod. G27, 50.00 charged to prod. S25 (Sky Boy)
The ledgers are a little unclear about the non-Our Gang production Farina worked in, with They Go Boom! being a possibility, but either way, Farina's footage was cut.
Aug. 3, 1929 - 150.00 charged to studio overhead
The studio was closed during August, resulting in a lower rate for Farina.
Aug. 10, 1929 - 150.00 charged to studio overhead
Aug. 17, 1929 - 150.00 charged to studio overhead
Aug. 24, 1929 - 150.00 charged to studio overhead
Aug. 31, 1929 - 50.00 charged to prod. G27
Sep. 7, 1929 - 450.00 charged to prod. G28 (Moan & Groan, Inc.)
Sep. 14, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G28
Sep. 21, 1929 - 150.00 charged to prod. G28
Sep. 28, 1929 - 150.00 charged to prod. G28
Oct. 5, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G29 (Shivering Shakespeare)
Oct. 12, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G29
Oct. 19, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G29
Oct. 26, 1929 - 150.00 charged to prod. G29
Nov. 2, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G30 (The First Seven Years)
Nov. 9, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G30
Nov. 16, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G30
Nov. 23, 1929 - 150.00 charged to prod. G30
Nov. 30, 1929 - 300.00 - 200.00 charged to prod. G30, 100.00 charged to prod. G31 (When The Wind Blows)
Dec. 7, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G31
Dec. 14, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G31
Dec. 21, 1929 - 300.00 - 150.00 charged to prod. G31, 150.00 charged to prod. G32 (Bear Shooters)
Dec. 28, 1929 - 300.00 charged to prod. G32
Jan. 4, 1930 - 300.00 charged to prod. G32
Jan. 11, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G32
Jan. 18, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G32
Jan. 25, 1930 - 300.00 charged to prod. G32
Feb. 1, 1930 - 300.00 charged to prod. G33 (A Tough Winter)
Feb. 8, 1930 - 300.00 charged to prod. G33
Feb. 15, 1930 - 300.00 charged to prod. G33
Feb. 22, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G33
Mar. 1, 1930 - 300.00 charged to prod. G33
Mar. 8, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G33
Mar. 15, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G33
Mar. 22, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G33
Mar. 29, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G33
Apr. 5, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G34 (Pups Is Pups)
Apr. 12, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G34
Apr. 19, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G34
Apr. 26, 1930 - 450.00 charged to prod. G34
May 3, 1930 - 300.00 charged to prod. G34
May 10, 1930 - 300.00 charged to prod. G34
May 17, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G34
May 24, 1930 - 300.00 - 100.00 charged to prod. G34, 200.00 charged to prod. G35 (Teacher's Pet)
May 31, 1930 - 300.00 charged to prod. G35
June 7, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G35
June 14, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G35
June 21, 1930 - 300.00 charged to prod. G36 (School's Out)
June 28, 1930 - 300.00 charged to prod. G36
July 5, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G36
July 12, 1930 - 300.00 charged to prod. G36

The studio was closed for the week ending July 19th, and Farina went without a paycheck. However, he was paid extra the following week.

July 26, 1930 - 350.00 charged to prod. G36
Aug. 2, 1930 - 300.00 charged to prod. G37 (Helping Grandma)
Aug. 9, 1930 - 300.00 charged to prod. G37
Aug. 16, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G37
Aug. 23, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G37
Aug. 30, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G37
Sep. 6, 1930 - 341.67 charged to prod. G38 (Love Business)
Sep. 13, 1930 - 350.00 charged to prod. G38
Sep. 20, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G38
Sep. 27, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G38
Oct. 4, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G38
Oct. 11, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G38
Oct. 18, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G38
Oct. 25, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G38
Nov. 1, 1930 - 350.00 charged to prod. G39 (Little Daddy)
Nov. 8, 1930 - 350.00 charged to prod. G39
Nov. 15, 1930 - 350.00 charged to prod. G39
Above this amount is another amount, $225, written in for the Babbett Co. (or something like that).
Nov. 22, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G39
Nov. 29, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G39
Dec. 6, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G39
Dec. 13, 1930 - 150.00 charged to prod. G39

Much of the week ending Dec. 20th and the entirety of the week ending Dec. 27th are missing from the payroll ledger, but filming for Bargain Day took place during this period.

Jan. 3, 1931 - 150.00 charged to prod. G40 (Bargain Day)
Jan. 10, 1931 - 150.00 charged to prod. G40
Jan. 17, 1931 - 150.00 charged to prod. G40
Jan. 24, 1931 - 150.00 charged to prod. G40
Jan. 31, 1931 - 350.00 charged to prod. G40
Feb. 7, 1931 - 350.00 charged to prod. G40
Feb. 14, 1931 - 150.00 charged to prod. G40
Feb. 21, 1931 - 150.00 charged to prod. G40
Feb. 28, 1931 - 350.00 charged to prod. G41 (Fly My Kite)
Mar. 7, 1931 - 350.00 charged to prod. G41
Mar. 14, 1931 - 350.00 charged to prod. G41
Mar. 21, 1931 - 350.00 charged to prod. G41

At this point, Farina was retired from the Our Gang series. He would be back two and a half months later to pose for photos with the Our Gang kids on June 6th. After this, it would be over a year before he returned for a reunion episode.

Oct. 22, 1932 - 40.00 charged to prod. G13 (Fish Hooky)
Farina was a day player on this film, receiving two paychecks, each for $20. These were issued on Oct. 20th and 21st.

See anything that needs changing? Contact me at BtheW@aol.com.