Shirley Grey

Shirley Grey, born Agnes Zetterstrand in 1902 in Naugatuck, was a celebrated actress of early 20th-century stage and screen. The youngest of seven children, she was the daughter of Swedish immigrants. Her father, Rev. Ernst Adrian Zetterstrand, served as pastor at Salem Lutheran Church in Naugatuck until his passing in 1911. Following his death, the family relocated to Waterbury, where Shirley graduated from Wilby High School in 1919.

Her acting career began shortly after with the Poli Players, making her stage debut in 1920 at the Lyric Theater in Bridgeport. She quickly rose to prominence, performing on Broadway and eventually transitioning to film. Between 1930 and 1935, Shirley Grey appeared in more than 45 Hollywood films, acting alongside many of the era’s leading stars.

Though her name may not be widely recognized today, Shirley Grey’s contributions to early American cinema were significant. Her story, rooted in Naugatuck, is a proud chapter in our town’s history and a testament to the artistic talent that emerged from our community.