They Lived Here ARTHUR TREACHER

In this land of opportunity, there is no limit to what one can accomplish. Arthur Treacher had a great desire to chase his dreams of becoming an actor. However, he was able to accomplish more than he could have ever imagined. Allowing nothing to get in the way of his ambitions, Treacher became an immensely successful man who once called Douglaston his home.
Born July 23, 1894, Arthur Veary Treacher hailed from Brighton, East Sussex, England. As the son of a lawyer, Treacher received a strict upbringing.
Once he was of age, his father saw that his son joined the British army. During his service, Treacher endured the massive bloodshed of World War I, which was an experience that helped put his life in perspective.
Once his obligation to the army was complete, Treacher reassessed his goals and decided to follow his dream of becoming an actor at the age of 25. His humble beginnings came as a chorus boy, where he made a name for himself as a musical comedy performer.
Thereafter, Treacher jump-started his acting career by performing at various small on-stage venues. Although it was a struggle, Treacher was able to learn the ropes and gather a wealth of knowledge from studying a variety of roles.
While part of a musical comedy revue called Great Temptations, Treacher received an opportunity that would change the rest of his life; he traveled with the group to America in 1928.
Treacher made his move to America a permanent one. Around this time, he made Douglaston his residence. His house was located at Hollywood Avenue between Center Drive and East Drive. Displaying the type of ambition that would surely lead to success, Treacher experienced almost immediate success as an actor.
Making his debut on film in 1933, he was considered the “perfect butler.” At a svelte 6’3’’, the hook-nosed Treacher brought to life a character that American audiences grew to love. Establishing himself in butler and servant roles, Treacher quickly became the best of his kind.
He made several appearances in Shirley Temple films, such as A Little Princess (1939). With each role, Treacher gained more recognition. He eventually became known simply as the famous butler, Jeeves. Some of his most well known works include Thank You Jeeves (1936), Step Lively Jeeves (1937), Mister Cinderella (1936) and Bordertown (1935). In his final film, he played a constable in the Disney hit Mary Poppins (1964).
Although his career as an actor had ended, Treacher still had greater ambitions. He made numerous TV guest appearances and acted as the announcer and sidekick on the Merv Griffin Show during the late 60’s and early 70’s.
In October of 1968, a fast food chain, which wanted to market a fish and chips restaurant to the American public, named the franchise after Arthur Treacher. The founders of the restaurant chose Treacher because they felt he portrayed the desired English image that was essential to the business’s success.
Today it is the third largest seafood chain in the food service industry with over 200 locations.