George M. (George Melville) Baker

George Melville Baker was an American writer, playwright, and publisher born in 1832 and active in Boston during the 19th century. He became especially associated with short plays, farces, and entertainments written for amateur performers, and his work was widely circulated in collections such as The Mimic Stage.

In addition to writing for the stage, he worked in publishing with Lee & Shepard before later issuing books under his own imprint, George M. Baker & Co. That mix of editorial and theatrical experience helped shape practical, audience-friendly works that were easy to stage in schools, clubs, and local halls.

Baker died in 1890, but his name remains closely tied to a lively tradition of popular American amateur theater. His writing offers a window into the humor, performance culture, and do-it-yourself spirit of the era.