The name Ella Cinders gives a big clue to the initial inspiration for this comic strip. The modern day Cinderalla, created by writer Bill Conselman and artist Charles Plumb, first made her appearance June 1, 1925. A Sunday page was launched a couple of years later and Ella's run finally finished in 1961.

The story started in classic style with a stepmother Myrtle "Ma" Cinders, favoring her daughters Prissie and Lotta, whilst Ella is consigned to household chores. But, Ella is made of sterner stuff and along with her brother Blackie makes light of her lot and even has a boyfriend Waite Lifter.

After winning a rather dubious prize, Ella Cinders moves to Hollywood, with her brother, to start a glamorous job that never materializes. Now free from drudgery her adventures really begin. As a final note, Ella Cinders actually did have a break, starring in a real movie released in 1926.