Evelyn Preer (1896-1932) was a well respected African American actress of her time. In the 1920's and 30's she starred in several silent films, such as "Within Our Gates," a controversial film directed by Oscar Micheaux, an African American director, and "Homesteader." Evelyn Preer was one of the hardest working women in show business, and a favorite in film, stage, singing in nightclubs, dancing, comedy and acting. She had such a wonderful singing voice, that many of the mainstream actresses lip-synced to her recorded voice in movies. Evelyn performed in prestigious clubs such as the Cotton Club and has worked with top figures in show business such as Eubie Blake, Paul Robeson, Duke Ellington, Red Nichols, Ethel, Waters, to name a few. Evelyn seemed to have so much more going for her until she suddenly passed away from double pneumonia. Evelyn Preer is an unsung actress whom I have included in my "Black Hollywood" series