One of the most memorable weddings in Cleveland’s history will celebrate its centenary on January 7, 2026. The marriage of entertainers George Burns and Gracie Allen has become a significant part of popular culture, though the details surrounding their wedding contain both truth and myth. While it is well-known that they were legally married in Cleveland on that date, the actual location of the ceremony differs from popular belief.
To uncover the true story, one must refer to application No. 208442 for a marriage license, issued on January 7, 1926, and now preserved in the Cuyahoga County Archives. The license was granted to Nathan Birnbaum, better known as George Burns, and Grace C. Allen. According to deputy clerk H. W. Beckman, the marriage was scheduled to be officiated by M. J. Penty, a justice of the peace in Warrensville Township. However, records confirm that the couple was married by another justice named J. E. Chizek.
Burns provided a detailed account of their wedding years later, recounting how he and Gracie, who had first met in 1923, had developed a successful comedy act by then. In 1926, they were touring Ohio with a routine called “Lamb Chops” when they decided to marry during a one-day layover in Cleveland. After arriving at the Statler Hotel on Euclid Avenue at 5 a.m., they waited two hours in the lobby to check in, hoping to avoid an extra day’s charge.
After securing their marriage license at the Cuyahoga County Courthouse on Lakeside Avenue, Burns and Allen faced an unexpected challenge. Both Penty and Chizek had offices across the street from the courthouse but were unavailable that Thursday. Burns recalled taking an 85-cent cab ride to Chizek’s home and office on Bridgeview Avenue in Newburgh Heights. Upon arriving, they found Chizek preparing for a fishing trip.
When Burns expressed their desire to marry, Chizek initially suggested they return the following day. Burns, however, insisted on their tight schedule, leading Chizek to relent and invite them in. Inside, Chizek’s wife, dressed in a kimono, served as a witness. The ceremony, conducted with a book in one hand and a fishing pole in the other, officially joined George and Gracie in marriage. Burns presented Chizek with a $10 fee, while Gracie received a $20 wedding ring that she wore until her passing.
Following the simple ceremony, the newlyweds enjoyed dinner at the Statler with Burns’ brother and his family, who had traveled from Akron to celebrate. Contrary to popular belief, they did not marry at the Palace Theatre, nor were they performing there that weekend. Nonetheless, ten weeks later, their act gained traction, and they did perform at the Cleveland Palace, which likely contributed to the enduring legend of their marriage taking place there.
As the couple became iconic figures in entertainment, their wedding story became intertwined with their legacy, creating a narrative that blends fact and folklore. The centennial celebration of their union offers an opportunity to reflect on the history of a pairing that has left a lasting impact on American comedy and popular culture.
As this anniversary approaches, it serves as a reminder not just of their legendary status but also of the real-life moments that shaped their remarkable journey together.
