"The Female Impersonators" by Ralph Werther is a sequel to his earlier work "Autobiography of an Androgyne." In this book, Werther offers an account of his experiences during his six years as a female-impersonator in New York's underworld. Werther's book not only describes his own experiences but also includes the life stories of his androgyne associates. Moreover, he provides an outline of his subsequently acquired knowledge of kindred phenomena of human character and psychology. The book sheds light on the lives of individuals who lived outside the mainstream, exploring their motivations and struggles. Through his experiences, Werther highlights the complex nature of gender identity and how individuals navigate societal expectations and their own desires. "The Female Impersonators" provides a glimpse into the underground world of New York in the early 20th century and the lives of those who lived on its margins.
Ralph Werther (1890-1937) was an American author and performer, best known for his autobiographical works that explore his experiences as an androgyne and female impersonator. Wether's early life was marked by struggles with his gender identity, which he later documented in his first book, "Autobiography of an Androgyne." He left his family in his late teens and began performing as a female impersonator in vaudeville shows, traveling around the country and developing his craft. "The Female Impersonators," his second book, offers an account of his experiences during his six years as a female impersonator in New York's underworld. Werther's writing was ahead of its time in exploring complex themes of gender identity and sexuality, and he was an important figure in the LGBTQ+ community during a time of significant social upheaval.
