Ralph Bingham (1870-1925) had many sobriquets in his life, beginning with “The Boy Musical Wonder” and ending with “The Jolliest Man in America.” In his show business career, Bingham was said to have performed in front of more than 7,000 audiences with his solo musical comedy act.
Bingham was elected to The Lambs as a non-resident member in 1915 when he had already made his mark in entertainment.
Bingham was born August 2, 1870, in Richmond, Virginia. He achieved fame as a schoolboy elocutionist at nine, when he made his first public appearance with the violin and piano. His aptitude stunned audiences as he entered his teens. Early in his career Bingham became associated with the Chautauqua circuit and was a favorite humorist. It was said he was imbued with a jovial and cheerful disposition, which won over audiences. For years he had appeared on Keith’s vaudeville circuit and also lectured from Chautauqua platforms.
Bingham was the founder and president of the International Lyceum Association of America. He resided on North 19th Street in Philadelphia when he was not traveling.
He died three days after Christmas 1925. Reports said the cause of death was acute indigestion followed by a heart attack. Ralph Bingham is buried in Hillside Cemetery outside Philadelphia.