Dorothy Patten

[1] Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee to a wealthy family, Patten rejected the traditional role of a Southern socialite and hostess and set out for a life on the stage.

Following the death of her mother in 1927, she left for New York City and attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, getting her first break on the stage in Elizabeth the Queen in 1929.

Patten was linked romantically with actress Cheryl Crawford in the 1930s, who, together with Harold Clurman and Lee Strasberg, formed The Group Theatre in 1931.

As of 2009, it was reported that they had brought theatre performances to over 100,000 people in Chattanooga and earned almost one million dollars for the University.

[5] After the break-up of her relationship with Crawford circa 1937, Patten became linked to Cecelia McMahon, who became her lifelong companion.