The marriage of entertainers George Burns and Gracie Allen, a significant moment in Cleveland’s history, will celebrate its 100th anniversary on January 7, 2026. While the couple is remembered for their remarkable contributions to entertainment, the true details of their wedding have often been obscured by legend and misconception.
Contrary to popular belief, the ceremony did not take place in the Palace Theatre or the State Theatre, as many stories suggest. Instead, an examination of marriage license application No. 208442, issued on January 7, 1926, reveals that the couple officially married at a location far removed from the grandeur of a theater.
The marriage license, recorded in the Cuyahoga County Archives, was issued to Nathan Birnbaum, the real name of George Burns, and Grace C. Allen, the actress. Deputy clerk H. W. Beckman documented the license, noting that the marriage was to be solemnized by M. J. Penty, a justice of the peace in Warrensville Township. However, the official return states that Burns and Allen were actually married by J. E. Chizek.
The couple met in 1923 and soon formed a comedy duo, performing on the vaudeville circuit. By 1926, they were honing their routine, “Lamb Chops,” while traveling through Ohio. During a brief layover in Cleveland, they seized the opportunity to marry. Arriving at the Statler Hotel on Euclid Avenue at 5 a.m., they chose to wait in the lobby until check-in time to avoid additional charges.
After securing their marriage license, Burns and Allen encountered an unexpected hurdle. Both Penty and Chizek were unavailable, leading them to take an 85-cent cab ride to Chizek’s residence on Bridgeview Avenue in Newburgh Heights. As they arrived, Chizek was preparing for a fishing trip.
“We’d like to get married,” Burns said. Chizek’s initial response was to suggest they return the next day. However, Burns urged him to reconsider, emphasizing their tight schedule. Conceding, Chizek invited them in, and with his wife as a witness, he performed the ceremony, humorously balancing a book in one hand and a fishing pole in the other.
After the wedding, Burns gave Chizek ten dollars for his services, while Gracie received a $20 wedding ring, which she cherished until her passing. On their way back downtown, Gracie joked about the ceremony, quipping, “For a moment, I thought we were getting a fishing license.”
Their wedding day concluded with dinner at the Statler, where Burns’ brother and family celebrated the occasion before the newlyweds retired to their room. Although they were not married in the Palace Theatre, they did return to perform there ten weeks later, likely contributing to the legend that has endured over the decades.
Over the years, George Burns and Gracie Allen became icons of American comedy, leaving a legacy that continues to resonate with audiences. Their love story, intertwined with their professional journey, remains a testament to their enduring impact on the entertainment industry.
As the anniversary approaches, fans and historians alike reflect on the vibrant lives of George and Gracie, celebrating not just their marriage but the joy they brought to millions through their performances.
