Vernon Castle, born as William Vernon Blyth in Norwich in 1887, rose to fame as one half of the world-famous dancing duo, Vernon and Irene Castle. After developing a successful act in New York, they revolutionized social dancing by introducing new forms of dance such as The Grizzly Bear, The Castle Walk, and The Tango. Their rise to stardom was met with immense popularity, and they embarked on a whirlwind tour across major cities in the United States. However, their dancing career came to a halt when Vernon decided to join the Royal Flying Corps during World War I, giving up his lucrative salary. He flew dangerous missions over German trenches, often dodging enemy fire, and received the Croix de Guerre from the French for his bravery. Tragically, he was killed in a training flight accident in 1918.
Vernon Castle’s death was mourned by both America and Britain. A train carrying his coffin traveled from Fort Worth, Texas, to New York’s Grand Central, drawing large crowds along the railway line. Dignitaries attended his funeral service in Manhattan, and he was laid to rest with the Croix de Guerre medal pinned to his tunic. Despite his wartime heroics, the focus on Castle’s dance career often overshadows his military service. Together with Irene, they taught the world to dance and popularized social dancing. Their influence was significant, as they encouraged the world to embrace new forms of dance.
Castle’s journey to fame began when he formed an act with his sister Coralie and her husband Lawrence Goldsmith, who were already theatrical stars. Vernon gained immense popularity in America as an eccentric comedian and magician and changed his name to Castle. In 1910, he met Irene Foote, the daughter of a wealthy medical consultant, and they married the following year. The couple’s success reached new heights when they performed The Grizzly Bear in Paris, captivating the crowd and establishing their reputation as dancing legends. They introduced various dances, including The Castle Walk, the Turkey Trot, and the Bunny Hug, becoming superstars in the process.
Vernon’s decision to leave his successful dancing career and enlist in the Royal Flying Corps showcased his patriotism and love for his country. He flew dangerous missions in France, undertaking reconnaissance and bombing sorties over German trenches. Despite the constant threat of enemy fire, Castle remained undeterred, zig-zagging to avoid being hit. He shot down at least two German aircraft and earned the Croix de Guerre from the French in recognition of his bravery. After completing numerous missions, he was sent to Canada and then America to train aspiring pilots. Tragically, Castle’s life was cut short when he died in a training flight accident in 1918.
Today, Vernon Castle is remembered as a star and a hero. A monument stands in Benbrook, Texas, at the crash site where he lost his life, commemorating his sacrifice. In Norwich, a plaque was unveiled at the Nelson Premier Inn by Dame Darcey Bussell in 2019, honoring Castle’s legacy as a world-renowned dancer. Despite his achievements in the dance world, Castle’s military service was equally remarkable and deserves recognition. His story serves as a testament to his patriotism and dedication, leaving a lasting impact on the world of dance and aviation.
