Tom Santschi, a renowned American leading man and character actor of the silent period, was born in Crystal City, Missouri, although various sources incorrectly list Switzerland and Kokomo, Indiana, as his birthplace. According to the 1880 census, Santschi was residing in Kokomo, Indiana, at the tender age of two, which suggests that his birthdate must have been in 1878.
His father, Paul Santschi, was born in Sigriswil, Switzerland, and immigrated to the United States as a child. Tom Santschi, however, promoted the myth that he was born in Switzerland, as he believed it sounded more thrilling than being born in Crystal City or Kokomo.
Prior to embarking on a professional acting career, Santschi performed as an amateur actor and made his stage debut at the age of 19. He then spent the next decade honing his craft in the theatre, eventually landing a small role in a film produced by Selig Polyscope.
Over the next few years, Santschi rose from bit player to leading man, directing and writing a few of his own films. Following the First World War, he became more frequently seen in supporting roles, often portraying villains. Despite his consistent work, Santschi's acting career came to an end with his death in 1931.
