Ruth Martin: The Unsung Partner Of Leslie Howard's Enduring Legacy
Behind every great figure often stands a silent pillar of strength, a partner whose contributions, though less heralded, are no less significant. In the dazzling world of early Hollywood and British cinema, Leslie Howard shone brightly, captivating audiences with his nuanced performances, most notably as Ashley Wilkes in 'Gone with the Wind'. Yet, while the spotlight perpetually followed him, the story of his wife, Ruth Martin, remained largely in the shadows. This article delves into the life of Ruth Martin, exploring her pivotal role as Leslie Howard's wife, a steadfast presence who navigated the complexities of a public life with grace, understanding, and her own quiet intellectual pursuits.
Understanding the life of a celebrated actor like Leslie Howard requires looking beyond the silver screen and into the intricate tapestry of his personal relationships. Ruth Martin was not merely a footnote in his biography; she was the anchor of his private world, raising their children and managing a household that spanned continents, all while fostering her own intellectual growth. Her story offers a unique lens through which to view the demands of celebrity, the dynamics of a lasting marriage, and the often-overlooked contributions of those who support public figures.
Table of Contents
- The Man Behind the Legend: A Brief Look at Leslie Howard
- Ruth Martin: The Woman Who Stood Beside Him
- Raising a Family: The Howard Children
- Navigating Hollywood and Home Life
- The Unconventional Aspects: Understanding and Modernity
- Ruth Martin's Enduring Influence on Leslie Howard's Legacy
- Beyond the Limelight: Ruth Martin's Own Contributions
The Man Behind the Legend: A Brief Look at Leslie Howard
Before delving into the life of Leslie Howard's wife, Ruth Martin, it is essential to understand the man himself. Leslie Howard, born Leslie Howard Steiner, was an English actor, director, and producer who became a prominent figure in both British and Hollywood cinema during the Golden Age. His career spanned over two decades, leaving an indelible mark on the film industry.
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Biography of Leslie Howard
Born in London in 1893, Leslie Howard was the eldest son of Ferdinand Steiner, a Hungarian-Jewish stockbroker, and Lilian Blumberg. His early life was marked by a passion for theatre, leading him to abandon a banking career for the stage. He made his professional debut in 1914 and quickly gained recognition for his refined demeanor and intellectual intensity. His transition to Hollywood in the late 1920s solidified his international stardom. Howard was known for his understated acting style, often portraying thoughtful, sensitive, and somewhat melancholic characters. His filmography includes classics such as "The Scarlet Pimpernel" (1934), "Of Human Bondage" (1934), and "Pygmalion" (1938), which he also co-directed. However, it was his iconic portrayal of Ashley Wilkes in the epic 1939 film 'Gone with the Wind' that cemented his place in cinematic history, making him a household name across the globe. Beyond acting, Howard was deeply involved in the war effort during World War II, producing and directing propaganda films for the British government. His life was tragically cut short in 1943 when his civilian plane was shot down over the Bay of Biscay by German forces.
Personal Data & Biodata
To provide a clearer picture, here is a summary of Leslie Howard's personal and professional data:
| Full Name | Leslie Howard Steiner |
| Born | 3 April 1893, Forest Hill, London, England |
| Died | 1 June 1943 (aged 50), Bay of Biscay |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Actor, Director, Producer |
| Spouse | Ruth Evelyn Martin (m. 1916 – 1943, his death) |
| Children | Ronald Howard (son), Leslie Ruth Howard (daughter) |
| Known For | Ashley Wilkes in 'Gone with the Wind', 'The Scarlet Pimpernel', 'Pygmalion' |
Ruth Martin: The Woman Who Stood Beside Him
While Leslie Howard captivated millions on screen, his private life was anchored by Ruth Evelyn Martin, the woman he married early in his career and with whom he remained until his untimely death. Their union began in 1916, a pivotal year for Howard as he was dispatched to France shortly after their wedding, serving in World War I. This early commitment to marriage, even amidst the turmoil of war and the nascent stages of his acting career, speaks volumes about the foundation of their relationship. Ruth Martin was not a public figure in the same vein as her husband; her life was primarily dedicated to their family and her own intellectual pursuits, often away from the glare of the Hollywood spotlight.
The couple was rarely seen together in public, a fact often noted by the press. For instance, while Leslie Howard was active in both Britain and Hollywood, his wife, Ruth Martin, primarily lived in Del Monte, California, where their two children attended school. This geographical separation, driven by the practicalities of family life and education, meant that Mrs. Howard maintained a relatively private existence, providing a stable home environment away from the constant demands of her husband's profession. This arrangement, though perhaps unconventional by today's standards, was a testament to their mutual understanding and commitment to their children's well-being.
Raising a Family: The Howard Children
Ruth Martin's primary focus, particularly during Leslie Howard's extensive filming schedules, was the upbringing of their two children: a son, Ronald Howard, and a daughter, Leslie Ruth Howard. Both children would go on to carve out successful careers in their own right, a testament to the nurturing environment provided by their parents, especially their mother.
Ronald Howard: Following in Footsteps
Their son, Ronald Howard, born in 1918, inherited some of his father's talent and passion for the arts. He became a successful actor and writer, known for his roles in various British films and television series. Most notably, he portrayed Sherlock Holmes in the 1954 television series "Sherlock Holmes," bringing his own interpretation to the iconic detective. Ronald also penned a biography of his father, "In Search of My Father: A Story of Leslie Howard," offering invaluable insights into the life of the celebrated actor and, by extension, the family dynamics shaped by Ruth Martin.
Leslie Ruth Howard: A Writer's Own Path
Their daughter, Leslie Ruth Howard, born in 1924, also pursued a successful career as a writer. Her path was significantly influenced by her mother, Ruth Martin, who herself possessed a latent passion for writing. Leslie Ruth was mentored by her mother, the late novelist Blanche, which nurtured her own literary talents. She became an entertainment and feature writer, contributing to various publications. Her work often focused on the arts and cultural events, demonstrating a keen intellect and a dedication to storytelling, much like her mother. The fact that both children achieved success in creative fields underscores the intellectual and supportive home environment fostered by Ruth Martin.
Navigating Hollywood and Home Life
The life of Leslie Howard's wife, Ruth Martin, was a delicate balance between supporting her husband's demanding career and maintaining a semblance of normalcy for their family. While Leslie Howard was often globetrotting for film productions, Ruth managed the household and ensured the children's stability. Their public appearances were indeed rare, making moments like their nightclubbing at the Club New Yorker in Hollywood noteworthy exceptions, offering a rare glimpse into their shared social life. These instances, however infrequent, suggest that despite their often separate living arrangements, they did share moments of leisure and connection.
Photographs from their private life, such as the one from 1937 depicting Leslie Howard with his wife, Ruth Martin, their son Ronald (nicknamed Winkie), their Yorkshire terrier, and cocker spaniel at their home at Stowe Maries, paint a picture of domestic tranquility amidst the chaos of celebrity. These images contradict the notion of a completely detached relationship, instead revealing a family unit, albeit one that had to adapt to the unique pressures of a star's career. Ruth Martin's commitment to creating this stable home, whether in Del Monte or Stowe Maries, was crucial for Leslie Howard, providing him with a sanctuary from the relentless demands of his profession. Her dedication allowed him to focus on his craft, knowing his family was well-cared for.
Further illustrating their connection, there are records of Ruth Martin traveling to New York City with her children, Leslie and Ronald, arriving on the S.S. to join Mr. Howard. These journeys highlight the efforts made to bridge the geographical distances imposed by Leslie's career, ensuring the family remained connected despite the challenges. Ruth Martin's role was not passive; it was an active management of family life, ensuring that her husband's career could flourish without sacrificing the well-being of their children.
The Unconventional Aspects: Understanding and Modernity
Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of Ruth Martin's character, as gleaned from historical accounts, was her remarkable understanding and composure in the face of the unconventional. A documentary discovering Leslie Howard explicitly states that "Leslie married early on, and always stayed married," and crucially, "His wife was very understanding." This understanding was put to the test, particularly towards the end of Leslie Howard's life, when he took a mistress, Violette Cunnington (who appeared under the stage name Suzanne Clair), with the "full knowledge of his wife."
This revelation speaks volumes about Ruth Martin's pragmatism, strength, and perhaps, a progressive mindset for her era. In a time when such arrangements were often scandalous and kept hidden, Ruth's acknowledged awareness suggests a complex, mature, and perhaps even unconventional agreement within their marriage. It hints at a deep level of trust and an understanding that transcended societal norms, allowing for a relationship that, while not traditionally monogamous, was nonetheless enduring and rooted in mutual respect. Leslie Howard's own diary entries, though sparse in details about his wife beyond domestic observations like "Rose at gentleman's hour of 1.30 [p.m.]" or "Wilfred [Noy] and family to lunch and for day," imply a consistent, if not always effusive, presence of Ruth in his daily life.
Ruth Martin's Enduring Influence on Leslie Howard's Legacy
Ruth Martin's influence on Leslie Howard's life and, by extension, his legacy, cannot be overstated. She provided the stability and support system that allowed him to pursue an intensely demanding career. Her commitment to raising their children, often independently, freed him from many domestic concerns, enabling him to fully immerse himself in his craft, whether on stage or screen. The fact that he "always stayed married" to Ruth Martin, despite the temptations and pressures of Hollywood, speaks to the strength and unique nature of their bond. She was his constant, his anchor in a world of transient fame and fleeting relationships.
Moreover, Ruth Martin's role in fostering an intellectually stimulating environment at home likely contributed to Leslie Howard's own artistic depth and thoughtful approach to his characters. While he was the public face, she was the private foundation, ensuring that his home life was a source of comfort and stability. Her understanding, particularly regarding the complexities of his personal life, allowed him a degree of freedom and peace of mind that was crucial for an artist of his stature. In essence, Ruth Martin's quiet strength and unwavering support were integral components of Leslie Howard's ability to achieve and maintain his status as a cinematic icon.
Beyond the Limelight: Ruth Martin's Own Contributions
While often defined by her role as Leslie Howard's wife, Ruth Martin was a woman of considerable intellect and talent in her own right. Her "latent passion for writing" was not merely a hobby; she developed it significantly, with "many nonfiction articles published in newspapers, websites and trade journals." This indicates a professional approach to her writing, demonstrating her capacity for independent intellectual pursuit and contribution. Her background, including being mentored by her mother, the late novelist Blanche, provided her with a strong literary foundation and a deep appreciation for the written word.
Ruth Martin's commitment to her own intellectual growth and creative expression stands as a testament to her character beyond the shadow of her famous husband. She was not content to simply be Mrs. Howard; she actively cultivated her own interests and made her own mark in the literary world, albeit less publicly than her husband's cinematic achievements. Her ability to balance the demands of family life with her personal aspirations showcases a woman of remarkable resilience and drive. She represents the often-unseen contributions of partners to the success and well-being of public figures, proving that a life lived outside the direct glare of the spotlight can be equally rich, productive, and influential.
Conclusion
The story of Ruth Martin, Leslie Howard's wife, is a compelling narrative of quiet strength, unwavering support, and personal intellectual pursuit. She was the steadfast partner who provided stability and understanding in the often-turbulent world of a Hollywood star. From raising their children, Ronald and Leslie Ruth, who both found success in their own creative fields, to managing a household that spanned continents, Ruth Martin played an indispensable role in Leslie Howard's life and career. Her remarkable understanding, even of the unconventional aspects of his personal life, highlights a depth of character and a modern sensibility that was ahead of its time.
Ruth Martin was more than just a supportive spouse; she was an individual with her own passions, particularly for writing, contributing to newspapers and journals. Her legacy is one of resilience, quiet influence, and the profound impact a dedicated partner can have on a public figure's life and enduring legacy. By shedding light on Ruth Martin's story, we gain a more complete and nuanced understanding of Leslie Howard, the man behind the legend, and the unsung hero who helped shape his world. We encourage you to delve deeper into the lives of these fascinating historical figures. What aspects of Ruth Martin's life resonate most with you? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or explore other articles on our site about the remarkable individuals who shaped cinematic history.
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