A Girl Named Mary

For 15 years, wealthy widow Marise Jaffrey has searched for her daughter Mary, who was taken away as an infant by her father and subsequently disappeared after he was killed in a train accident. Mary Healy, a stenographer who has helped in the search, learns that Mrs. Healy is not her real mother. At the same time, Mary's resemblance to the missing girl leads Mrs. Jaffrey to investigate further and discover that Mary is her daughter. Mary then goes to live in the Jaffrey home, but runs away because of the snobbish attitudes of Mrs. Jaffrey's friends. Henry Martin, a printer's foreman, tells Mrs. Jaffrey of his love for Mary. Mary's mother and foster mother reconcile themselves when they see Mary's happiness over her forthcoming marriage.

Directed by Walter Edwards, A Girl Named Mary leans on a strong ensemble — Marguerite Clark, Kathlyn Williams, Wallace MacDonald — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1919.