"DEADHEADS."
"Very few readers are probably aware of the origin of the word "deadhead/ which is so frequently used in connection with theatrical representations. It is stated to be as follows:—Many years ago, at the time of turnpikes, the principle avenue of a town passed close to the entrance of a road leading to the cemetery. As this cemetery had been laid out some time previous to the construction of the road, it was arranged tliat all funeral processions should be allowed to pass along the latter free of toll. One aay, as a well-known physician, who was driving along this road, stopped to pay the toll, he observed to the keeper, " Considering the benevolent character of our profession, I think you ought to let us pass free of charge." " No, no, doctor, 1 said the gatekeeper, ,; we can't afford that, you send .too many deadheads through as it is." The story travelled around the country, and the word " deadhead" was eventually applied to those who obtained free admission to the theatre,"
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https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/LWM19000112.2.56
Bibliographic details
Lake Wakatip Mail, Issue 2294, 12 January 1900, Page 6
Word Count
172"DEADHEADS." Lake Wakatip Mail, Issue 2294, 12 January 1900, Page 6
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