Edwin August Phillip von der Butz[2] (November 10, 1883 – March 4, 1964) was an American actor, director, and screenwriter of the silent era.

August was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and graduated from Christian Brothers College there.

[5] He wrote novels under the pen name Montague Lawrence.

[6] August died in Hollywood, California.

His grave is located at Valhalla Memorial Park Cemetery in North Hollywood.