Annie Louise Cary as Amneris, ca. 1875
Contributed by Cary Memorial Library in WayneDescription
Annie Louise Cary (1841-1921) was a world-renowned opera and concert singer. Born in Wayne, she studied music in Boston and Milan, Italy, before making her operatic debut in 1868. When Verdi's opera Aida had its American premiere, Cary sang the role of Amneris, daughter to the king of Egypt. This role brought her much acclaim, in both America and Europe.
Cary spent several seasons performing in St. Petersburg, Russia, and pursued a stage career in Europe and America until her retirement in 1881. In later years Cary sang for charitable and private events.
In 1938, a new library was built in Wayne, and named the Cary Memorial Library in her honor.
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