Mary Davies

Inducted 2004

Mary Davies began her career at age four as "Little Trouble" in the Chicago Opera Company's production of Madame Butterfly. She grew up to become one of the most popular entertainers in the history of local radio and television.

Mary’s professional work started on radio, singing on the Dayton Soda Set Show. A winning effort on Stairway to Stardom secured a week's engagement on WCCO Radio. Over the next three years, her enchanting voice and unbridled charm made her a star. In 1950 she began appearing on WCCO TV with programs like The John Salisbury Variety Show and Country Holiday, the first locally produced color television broadcast. She even had several appearances with Arthur Godfrey on his talent show. But her most memorable role was as one of the longest running children's television characters in Twin Cities' history, “Carmen the Nurse.” Carmen first appeared with co-star Clellan Card on Axel and His Dog in 1954. She went on to host Carmen’s Cottage from 1966 until 1977. A mother of six children, she was able to combine her many talents as an entertainer with the love and understanding that set the standard for children's programming.

Mary Davies Orfield died peacefully on February 7, 2014, at the age of 88.