Ace Cain, a native of Oklahoma, spent his childhood and teenage years on his family's farm in Wichita Falls, Texas. His early life was marked by a decade-long stint in the U.S. Army, where he primarily served in the Pacific Rim, including China, the Philippines, and Hawaii. During this time, he honed his skills as a prolific and skilled gambler.
After his military service, Cain transitioned into a career as a bootlegger in Hollywood during the latter years of Prohibition. He established Ace Cain's Cafe on Western Avenue, near Sunset Boulevard, directly across the street from 20th Century-Fox studios. His brother, Jim Cain, operated a retail liquor store adjacent to the cafe.
Due to his intimidating physical presence and menacing features, Cain was often cast in villainous roles in 14 Poverty Row westerns produced in the mid-1930s. Later in life, he owned and operated the Uncle Ace Liquor Store and Uncle Ace Motel, located on Western Avenue near Santa Monica Boulevard.
Cain also acquired and ran the Rocky Springs Country Club in Saugus, California, a venue notorious for its "very friendly" clientele, comprising ex-models and showgirls. This reputation was likely due to the club's relaxed atmosphere, which allowed its patrons to socialize and engage in various activities.
