Martha Scott
American actress
Who was Martha Scott?
Martha Ellen Scott (September 22, 1912 – May 28, 2003) was an American actress. Martha played the mother of Charlton Heston's character in both films. Scott was born in Jamesport, Missouri. She was the daughter of Letha (née McKinley) and Walter Alva Scott. Her mother was a second cousin of U.S. President William McKinley. The Scott family remained in Jamesport until Martha was 13 years old. Scott became interested in acting while in high school. She furthered this interest by attending the University of Michigan. Walter was an engineer and garage owner. At that time, they moved to Kansas City, Missouri. Eventually, they relocated in Detroit, Michigan. Her accolades included a teaching certificate, as well as accomplishing a Bachelor of Arts degree in drama in 1934.
Historical significance
She was featured in major films such as Cecil B. DeMille’s The Ten Commandments (1956), and William Wyler's Ben-Hur (1959). She originated the role of Emily Webb in Thornton Wilder's Our Town on Broadway in 1938, and later recreated the role in the 1940 film version, for which was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress.
