An Easter Lily (1914)

Sonny Jim is playing in the yard when Mammy Jackson, the wash-woman, enters the gate, followed by a little pickaninny. Sonny asks the darky her name. She replies, "Mah name's Lily." Sonny's mother receives word from her sister Kate that she is to spend Easter with them, and will bring her five children. Brother John, a military officer in the Philippines, also writes he is coming. Mother is delighted, and soon all is in preparation. Sonny nearly ruins his clothes, when he gets into the jam closet. Mother gives him a scolding, and he is again washed and dressed. Auntie arrives and Sonny is an interested observer as she shows mother her children's new Easter clothes. Sonny thinks everybody has new clothes for Easter, but when he speaks of it to Lily, she cries and says, "I ain't got none." Sonny, feeling sorry for her, provides her with a full outfit from his little cousin's clothes. He then tells her to come to church to-morrow where she can sit with his folks. Uncle arrives and is warmly greeted. Next morning, there is great excitement; nearly church time and one of the children's clothes missing. Aunt Kate, finally dresses the deprived one in her traveling clothes and all leave for church. Led by the General, they walk proudly down to the front pew. Sonny hangs back outside, and pretty soon, Lily is discovered gorgeously arrayed in white. To the huge amusement of all, he drags her up the aisle and into Daddy Jim's pew. Daddy later asks Sonny why he did it, and he replies, "'Cause nobody 'membered Lily at all." He is forgiven and Aunt Kate good-heartedly gives the little-colored girl a neat little dress.

All Releases

Domestic
International
Worldwide
Summary Details
Running Time9 min
GenresComedy Short