James R. Quirk

Who was James R. Quirk?

James R. Quirk was an American magazine editor of Irish descent. Quirk was the vice president and editor of Photoplay Magazine, one of the earliest film or fan magazines and particularly popular in the silent film era. Quirk had been with the magazine since its founding in 1911. Quirk's magazine had many popular rivals such as Motion Picture Magazine, Modern Screen, Classic Screen, Screenland etc.

Quirk had also been editor of the first Washington Times prior to his involvement with Photoplay and editor of the periodical Popular Mechanics during his involvement with Photoplay. For two years he was publisher of The Smart Set magazine.

He was the uncle of Lawrence J. Quirk who gives out an award in James's memory that cover many aspects of the film business.