Circus Historical Society
Excerpts From the New York Clipper - 1900-1909
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The New York Clipper was a weekly trade newspaper for the entertainment industry from 1853 to the 1920s, when it became Variety. Microfilms of the Clipper are available from various libraries and other sources. The Clipper contained regular news about circuses. These excerpts are interesting for the information on circuses, acts, personnel and circus life. Included here are a limited number of dates and amount of information on circuses published in the Clipper. Only a few transcriptions for any issue are complete. Note: the Clipper had typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information with a word or words underlined indicate that the transcription may not be correct. Unreadable words are indicated by ___. All information should be checked with additional sources. Transcribed by Judy Griffin.
New York Clipper, March 31, 1900, p. 99. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The following engagements have been made for the Great William Sells Shows, united with James H. Gray's New Olympian Hippodrome: The wonderful Janeau aerial marvel . . . Warren A. Patrick as treasurer. Everything is all bustle at winter quarters. Our special new paper is fast approaching completion, and will be new and of elegant design. The show will have accommodations for eating and sleeping equal to any on the road this season. There will be a fine Pullman sleeping car, two berths high, elegantly furnished and ___ fresh from the Pullman car shops at Chicago, Ill. This car will be for the performers. The laboring men will also have first class accommodations, having one sleeping car to themselves, all furnished complete, and equal to any circus on the road. There will be a dining car finely fit up for all the performers. There will also be a dining tent on the circus grounds for the laboring people, which will be very convenient.
The Zamora Family sailed March 17 for Germany to join Barnum & Bailey's Show. Little Evelyn Zamora was entertained by her friends during her saty in New York.
Oscar Brewer has signed with the Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows for the coming season, making his second season with the show. He will do principal clowning and introduce his pickaninny cake walkers and a burlesque giraffe act.
Van Amburg & Gallagher Notes. One of the finest equipped shows season of 1900 will be the Van Amburg & Gallagher Combined Shows, the outfit will be completely new, and is now well under way and will be completed by April 15. The outfit is being built at Buffalo, N.Y., and consists as follows: big top 120ft. with two 40ft centres; menagerie 80ft., with one 30ft. centre; ___ dressing room, three ___ horse tents, ___ cook house, and ___ kid shows. The printing will all be new and very elaborate.
Notes from the Rice & Davis Big United Shows. We are getting everything in readiness for the coming tenting season. Have just received a large shipment of show property from Peru, Ind. We expect a lot of new horses in a few days. The Rice & Davis Shows will be one of the best equipped 15 and 25c shows on the road this coming season. Chas. and Katie Boynton have signed to do their sensational aerial act.
Oscar C. Smith has signed with Harkness & Fox's ___ Circus again this season to do his rope and wire walking clown and Mexican ladder, making his fourth season with that show.
Notes from winter quarters of A. H. Reed's Circus. Frank Dempsey, our boss canvas man, has arrived and is busy getting things in shape for the opening. . . .
W. H. Harris, Chicago, Ill., has purchased from Carl Hagenbeck, through his American representative, Dr. E. D. Colvin, eight double hump Siberian working camels.
W. T. Boyer, formerly manager of the People's Theatre, St. Mary's, O., is no longer connected with the theatre, but has taken his old position with advertising car No. _, Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus.
The Australian Wonders, the five St. Leons and trained monk, Jocko, will make their first appearance in America beneath a canvas with W. H. Harris' Nickle Plate Shows, in Chicago, April 21.
Ernest De Pew, formerly of the Walter L. Main Shows, has signed with the Ringling Bros. Greatest Shows on Earth for the coming season as ticket seller.
Carlo Bros., of old time circus fame, are here to book attractions for their circus in Brazil, to open in May.
Notes from A. W. McCormick's New Silver Plate Show. We are making preparations for the fifth annual opening of the white tent season, over-hauling harness, painting wagons, and will have an entire new canvas throughout this year. We have purchased six small cross cages for menagerie. Will have the same elephant and camel with us that we had two years ago. A. W. McCormick is now sole owner of this "prize box." Our ten trained white ponies and three stallions have been carefully trained all winter by Prof. McCoy, of Toronto, Can., and are second to nine in the show business. Al. Gaston, talking and singing clown, has signed for this season. He is to take charge of dressing room. We have mostly booked, with few exceptions, the same people we had last year, and shall return to our wagons for 1900. It is more profitable, and we do not encounter so much opposition. We are contemplating going South through Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Missouri for the early winter season, catching the different crops when the folk have ready money, returning about Christmas to headquarters, Gallipolis, O., by steamboat.
Dalton and Franklin are engaged for the coming season with the John Robinson Show for the concert.
. . . and Wm. De Varlo go with the Walter J. McDonald's Colossal Shows for the season with troupe of trained dogs and ponies and leaping greyhounds, Little Inize doing a pony manage and a two pony hurdle act. De Varlo is doing his jockey and Pete Jenkins act.
The John Robinson Circus lost twelve of nineteen camels by death on shipboard while en route to this port from Calcutta, India. The ship ___ safely landed seven camels and a dwarf cow on March 22.
New York Clipper, April 7, 1900, p. 134. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Wintermute Bros.' Show Notes. Every preparation is being made at the winter quarters at Hebron, Wis., for the opening on May _. Frank Zweiger has finished painting and decorating the wagons, cages, etc. The Wintermute Bros. pin their faith to the national colors, red, white and blue, and those are the ones predominating with the New Gigantic. Thos. Wintermute has spent the winter breaking new dogs and ponies, etc. A military drill by ponies and complete dog and pony show will be strongly featured on the billing matter. The show will use a 100ft. roung top, ___ side show, with ten paintings, five cages, fifty horses and ponies. Halsey Wintermute will have charge of the advance, with two bill wagons and three assistants. Performers so far engaged: John Schneider, Wm. Weir, Arthur Near, Herman Vonquett, W. E. Lock, Ernest Coleman and a band of eight pieces. W. A. Atterbury has the privileges.
Notes from Rehn's United Shows. Our winter quarters at Danville, Kan., is now a scene of activity. Everything is being overhauled and put in readiness for the coming season. Workmen, eight in number, have charge of the different departments, and are vieing with each other to make things look more elaborate. The show promises to be one of the brightest and neatest wagon shows on the road, and manager G. W. Rehn, is sparing neither pains nor expense to bring about this result. We will open at Danville, April __, with an __ft. round top, with a 30ft. middle piece; side show __ft., with 30ft. middle piece; a new horse tent __ft., and a __ black tent for the "passion Play" in moving pictures, under the management of Sig. Harris. Our stock is in good condition, having had comfortable winter quarters and the best of care. Sixteen handsomely painted wagons will be used to transport the show, which will carry about sixty people. We are anxiously looking forward to the opening date.
Dan Rice's will was probated in Long Branch, N.J., March __. It was made in June last and was witnessed by Judge C. ___ Patterson and Lewis Slocum. The will directs that all of his personal and real estate, including the revenue from his unpublished book of his life, shall go to John H. Brown and his sister, Miss Elizabeth Brown, with whom he lived. They also are made the executors. The only conditions the ___ imposes is that they are to pay $1,000 annually to his surviving daughter, Mrs. Catherine ___, of this city, as long as she shall live. The famous circus man expected to reap a harvest from the sale of his book, which is now in the hands of the publishers. It will contain upward of seven hundred pages. It is to be illustrated, and will contain interviews with Presidents Grant, Lincoln and Johnson, in addition to many of his circus ring jokes. He left, it is declared about ten thousand acres of land in Tennessee and Texas. The land in Tennessee is said to contain coal and iron ore.
Ed. F. Davis' Show notes. The latest additions are: the La Rue Bros., Bernard Orton, Eydon and Nelson and the Welcomes. Sam MacFlinn is on the ground, and the many animal acts are being daily rehearsed.
Del Fuego has signed for the coming season with the Ringling Bros.' World's Greatest Shows as clown.
Peter W. Barlow denies a recent statement, sent to the Clipper, that he is in Cuba with a small native circus. He writes: "Whoever sent you the information sent you an untruth, as is surely no friend of mine. On the tenth day of last January I sold my hotel in Santiago de Cuba, known as the Colonial. I also sold a third interest in the Rapid Transit Bus Co., of that same city, and on Jan. 18 sailed to ___ with El Gran Circo Lowande, filling the position of bareback somersault and jocky rider, also equestrian director. I am still with El Gran Circo Lowande, Tony Lowande, sole proprietor and manager . . . Our show is the only circus making any money for the simple reason that the Cuban people are aware of the fact that Tony Lowande brings to them nothing but the very best. We close our season Aug. __, and reopen in Santiago de Cuba on or about Nov. __."
New York Clipper, April 14, 1900, p. 149. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Doings at the winter quarters of the famous B. B. & H. Circus, Dog and Pony Shows. We have leased the Fair Grounds at Antigo, Wis., where we have the show stored. We have a number of workmen overhauling and getting everything in first class shape. We are having a cage built for dogs and monkeys, and also a small ticket wagon. We will have two wagons in advance, well equipped, and loaded with paper suitable for this kind of a show. Our canvas has arrived. Prof. Burns is very busy training a number of Shetland ponies, which will be a feature. Our trick horse, "John A. Logan," is doing an act that will suprise the natives. The roster to date is as follows: Prof. Burns, manager . . . Fred Boldt, advance representative, with four assistants; J. Zimmer, in charge of privileges; Tom Scott, boss canvas man . . . Lew Williams, props; Chas. Carroll, director of band, which will be a feature; Rosena Carroll, drum major. We will have twelve musicians for the band. The performers are: Young Cyclone, J. W. Parker . . . Lewis and Lewis, with their troupe of performing dogs . . . Own Albert . . . Bernie McGraw and Zennette. We will use fourteen wagons, and carry thirty-four head of horses.
Notes from Foster & Wilkens' Great London 10 and 30 cent Shows. . . . another week will see everything in shape for one of the finest shows of ___ on the road this season. Our outfit will be new and complete in every detail. . . . The show will carry a band of fifteen musicians, which will be one of the features. Roster: . . . the Sampsons, Ed and ___; the Mannings, Dan and Ida; Bros. La PLants (or Adell Family); Prof. Claud May and his troupe of educated dogs; Mlle Loretta . . . Dave Pomroy . . .
Notes from the Rice & Davis Big United Shows. We are now making preparations for our opening, which will be at Brockwayville, Pa., April __. The show will be one of the best equipped little shows on the road this coming season. We will use thirty head of stock. Size of main tent __ft., with two 40ft. middle pieces; side show tent 40x70; horse tent ___, dresting tent ___, cook house ___. There will be sixty people with the show.
The Boyntons have signed with the Sig. Sautelle Show,and not with the Rice & Davis Shows. To do their new horizontal revolving ladder.
Leonard and Hart have signed for the coming tenting season with Sig. Sautelle's Show.
Prof. Shedman and Mlle ___ senational dogs, Chas. A. Sampson and ___ O'Brien left for Rio Janeiro, Brazil, April _, to join Carlo's Circus.
Tommy Barnett has signed with Rehn's United Shows for the season.
New York Clipper, April 21, 1900, p. 173. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Rays from Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows. Everybody engaged reported promptly, and the old performers could scarcely be convinced it was the same show they closed with last Fall, as everything is new from start to finish. The opening parade and performance took place in Raleigh, N.C., April _. The day was beautiful, and the business right up to the notch. The newspapers and citizen of Raleigh were profuse in their compliments on the gentlemanly behavior and progressiveness of the Sun Bros.' Shows while in the city, and many expressions of regret were heard when the shows pulled out. The first drive to Morrisville, N.C., was made without a hitch, and Sun Bros. can feel justly proud of their new layout for the season of 1900. The roster of the company is as follows: Sun Bros., proprietors; Geo. Sun, manager; O. R. Sun, treasurer; Pete Sun, advance representative . . . Louis E. Pepper, press agent; Wiley Terris, equestrian director; Prof. Chas. Coon, band leader; J. H. Rhodes, leader of orchestra; the Snyders (Jno., Edward and Harry), acrobats; Terris and Trevanion, breakaway ladder; Wiley Terris, dancing barrel; Wiley Terris Jr., baby clown; Richards Bros., statuary . . . Oscar Brewer, principal staging clown, with his troupe of pickaninnies and cake walkers; Arthur May, Fred Dexter, Fred Tryon, A. J. Ashton . . . M. V. Rector, Edward Kingsland, Prof. Gleiser and his troupe of performing dogs . . . In the annex are all the small animals . . . Percy Richards, boss property man, with six assistants; Chet Varley, chief cook in Hotel de Sun, with assistants; Harry McBride, chandelier man, and in charge of small animals; Otto Miller, night watchman. The advance staff is composed of Pete Sun, manager; Albert Moore, in charge of big wagon; Walter Epperson, in charge of No. 2 wagon . . . The show will work the tobacco section and then head directly East. Everthing points to a prosperous season for the Progressive Shows.
Notes from Dixon, Bowers & Dixon's Big Shows. Everything is in readiness for the opening of our big shows, which takes place May 1, with the following roster: Dixon, Bowers & Dixon, proprietors and managers . . . Prof. Fred. D. Fox, bandmaster, with twelve solo musicians; Prof. John White and troupe of educated horses, ponies, dogs and monkeys; the Imperial troupe of pantomimists; Annie Bart, balancing trapeze and high wire . . . Edward Clark, juggler; William Phelps and his riding dog and goat; clowns: John Lancaster, Robert Hodge and the Three McDonalds (Tom, Jim and Frank). . . . Maud Hayward, female cornet soloist, has been engaged as one of the special features of the concert, in additon to the following people: the Imperial Comedy Trio, Hodge, Hayward and Lancaster, Wilson and Allen, Carter and Green. We carry thirty-two head of horses, with Bob Stark, boss hostler, with ten assistants; Jack Backley, boss canvas man, with ten assistants. The show opens in Sydney, N.Y.
Welsh Brothers' Circus notes. We open in Lancaster, Pa., April __. This year this aggregation will be much larger and include many new features. Everything will be new, and an additional car will be added to the train, making four in all. Two weeks later a second combination will be launched, to be known as the Welsh Wagon Show. There will be thirty-three performers with the big company. Among the prominent head line acts are: the Marinellas, Miss Vera, Louis Beauvais . . . St. Alban Sisters, the La Mottes, Alfred Heintz, Mlle. Zanta, Miss Millie Dair, Max Hugo, Harry F. West, Joseph Kearney . . . Pete Watson, Prof. Harry Mohn and others. A big concert band will be made a special feature, with Herbert M. Whittier as director. J. N. Holcomb, late cornet soloist with Liberati's Band, is with this party, and M. H. and John Welsh will look after the business, and Prof. Newton will direct the performances and do the press work.
Fred Knight, the veteran animal man, has joined the Lemen Bros.' Circus, to take charge of the menagerie and the large elephant, "Raga."
The Bros. Valveno have signed with Sig. Sautelle's Big Shows for the summer tenting season.
Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Shows. Things are of the humming order around the winter quarters, carpenters, blacksmiths and painters being especially busy, making new and remodeling the old, as everything must be bright for the start. This season the show goes out bigger, better and stronger than ever before, more wagons, stock and canvas being added. Our new advance wagon, which is completed, will be quite an improvement over the one used last season. The ticket wagon is also ready to leave the shop, and the work done on it is likewise commented on. Everything will be ready for the first of May, when we take the road for another record breaking season, for such the ones preceding have been, and we will visit a goodly number of last year's towns.
Mrs. Annie Thomson, formerly Annie Picard, has signed with the John Robinson Show for the coming season, and will not join her husband, Capt. Hugh Thomson, who is now in the Philippine Islands, until next Fall.
The painting and decorating of the Rhoda Royal Shows is all done, and everything is now ready for the opening. That will take place in Geneva, O., Saturday, April __.
April showers from Sig. Sautelle. With old winter's backbone broken, the work of getting the road stock hard and in good condition now receives full attention. The horses are being driven daily, and those just received from the farm are groomed and grain fed once more. As this is the first time in the history of Homer that a circus has begun its season here, all the residents of the town and surrounding territory propose to do full honor to the event the opening day, May 11. Business blocks and other buildings will be elaborately decorated in bunting and flags, and altogether a gala time is promised. . . . The sewers employed on wardrobe have completed their labors. Everything is in readiness for the road, and the show could open tomorrow but for the weather.
Tony Richardson writes: "Having completed my municipal duties as mayor of my home city, Astabula, O., on April __, I once again return to the managerial forces, having signed with the Rhoda Royal Shows as treasurer and assistant manager. We open the season at Geneva, O., April __ . . . L. V. Strebig, manager, who is very carefully looking after every detail, while Messrs. Royal and ___ are right up to date in their departments. The scene at the winter quarters is nearly in readiness to move. Don McKenzie has charge of advance car No. 1."
Notes from Harrington's Combined Shows. The wood workers and painters are all hustling to have everything in readiness for our opening, which will be Sunday, May _, at Cook's Park, Evansville, Ind. We will put on an illuminated night parade on Sunday night, before our opening. The show will remain here for one week, making one day stands. After leaving here, touring our old route, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri and Kentucky. The show will be under the management of E. A. Harrington. Wm. A. Harrington will be in advance, with one assistant and two bill posters.
___ T. Dillon, manager for Otis Turner's Big Consolidated Shows, was a Clipper caller April 14. The season opens about May 21. The show will carry fifty people and twenty-five head of stock, with a completely new outfit.
New York Clipper, April 28, 1900, p. 201. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Much of the "Under the Tents" column was unreadable. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Great Van Amburg & Gallagher Combined Shows. Manager Gallagher has returned from his trip to New York, where he went to buy wardrobe and trappings for the show. The wagons are all finished, and great credit is due Mr. Schmidt, the Genesee Street wagon manufacturer, for his fine work. Williams Bros., canvas manufacturers, will have all canvas ready by April __. The printing, which is all new, is very artistic and attractive. The horses are looking fine . . . With a few finishing touches here and there the ever favorite, old fashioned, one ring circus, that will bring back fond recollections of bygone barefoot days, will inaugurate the season at Buffalo, N.Y., Wednesday, May 9. Among the new features signed are Mlle. Minnetta, daring outside ascensionist; the La Mont Brothers, Harry and Charlie, hand balancers and wire walkers; Dan De Land, John Anderson, Jas. R. Hill and Leon Ardell, gymnasts; the La Grandes, acrobats. Prof. Swain and William Scherer have secured the side show and candy privileges, and Prof. Swain's trained goats, chickens, dogs and monkeys will be a card. . . .
Harry Howard has signed with the Rhoda Royal Show as door talker and announcer.
Harry Rengard has closed nine week playing dates, and will join the B. B. and H. Circus May 7, for the summer season.
Waterbury [Connecticut]. George Goodheart, representing Ringling Brothers' Shows, was in town 19 in quest of a former employee of the circus, named Roy, who has been circulating about the city the past few days collecting orders for lithographs, tickets, making pretentions to taking the names and addresses of the holders, claiming to be duly authorized, etc., and further promising to mail the seat coupons with a proper door pass. It is as yet unknown how many people have suffered from his operations, but he seems to have gotten away before being detected.
New York Clipper, May 5, 1900, p. 221. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Much of the "Under the Tents" was unreadable. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Lewis & Copeland's Big 10 and 20 Cent Shows opened at Guthrie, O. T., for three days, April __, with the following people in the line up: Lewis & Copeland, proprietors; Sam Copeland, manager . . . J. Jackson, perch, single traps and webs; Wm. Franklin, high wire, slack wire and flying rings; Sam Copeland, principal clown. Ed. Johnson, balancing trapeze and juggling; Wm. Lewis, contortion; Lewis and Copeland, double trapeze and revolving ladder . . . We had our first blowdown afternoon of 24, at Iowa City, but, fortunatley, no one hurt. The show will make the Oklahoma circuit and then go into Arkansas for the rest of the season.
G. Burkhart has signed with Sig. Sautell's Circus for the season.
In Washington, D.C., the long considered and much debated question of granting permits to circuses has been settled by the adoption of the following amendment to Section 14, Article __, of the Police Regulations: "That no circus shall hereafter be located, operated, or conducted on any lot or open space without the consent of __ per cent of the ___ keeping house in the square on which it is proposed to hold the circus, and on the square confronting said circus ground." The adoption of the above amendment was recommended to the commissioners by the attorney for the district.
May flowers from Sig. Sautelle's New Big 25 Cent Shows. . . . Cortland, our second stand three miles from home, has entered into a good natured rivalry with Homer, in preparing a right royal reception for Mr. Sautelle and his shows. Our first billing brigade of twelve men started out Saturday last, and acting under orders, they are putting up as much matter as opposition circuses. Every sheet is a special design, and as attractive as mone and art can produce. The second brigade will leave during the present week, and the advertising agent next Monday. All of the musicians have arrived, and Band Master Flynn and his men are making the ___ around Homer resound with music. The performers are scheduled to report within the next few days, and all signs now indicate a most auspicious opening, Thursday, May 10. An innivation which will be heartily appreciated by patrons and performers alike is a new system of lighting. Mr. Sautelle has secured a recently patented light, and a sufficient number will be used to illuminate the big top more brilliantly than could the brightest mid-day sun. Other improvements, attending to the comfort, pleasure and convenience of patrons, have been made . . .
Frank F. La Vell has finished a series of dates, and is now taking a vacation in Syracuse, N.Y., prior to opening for the summer season with the Foster & Wilkins Circus.
Chas. Ellet, of the ___ Bros., was initiated in the B. P. O. Elks at Danville, Ill., April __, and was presented with an Elk's charm by manger J. H. La Pearl, with whom the Ellets have signed for this season, making their sixth season with that show.
Notes from the Star Circus. Everything is being put in readiness for the opening day at Rock Creek, O. Will put out about thirty people and forty head of stock. We have signed for the coming season: . . . Kittie Kimball, and others . . .
Princess Sultana has closed at the Imperial Theatre, Atlanta, Ga., and has joined the Robinson Circus for the season.
New York Clipper, May 19, 1900, pp. 265, 268, 271. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Great Rhoda Royal Shows. Business has been far beyond the expectations of the most sanguine, and that this show is meeting with deserved approval is made evident by the compliments paid by press and public. Opposition and unseasonable weather have had no effect, for at every performance the spacious tents have been filled. The Eddy family are continuing their popularity, and in fact every feature with the show has come in for praise. The sixty-three horse act of Prof. Berris is a winner, as is Madame Royal's menage act. The rough riders and Rhoda Royal bring forth unlimited applause. Inadvertently genial "Tony" Richardson, ex-mayor of Ashtabula and ex-treasurer of the Walter L. Main Show, but now treasurer of the Rhoda Royal Show, found himself re-christened in the Clipper last week. By mis-spelling his name his individuality was lost. "Tony" has been officially entertained in every town the show has visited this season. He is popular, both as a showman and a politician. Walter L. Main visited the show at Ashtabula, and pronounced it the most complete, clean and up to date he has ever seen. William J. Doris has added several new features to the annex. "Olga" will strengthen her snake act by adding six alligators to her den. When everything is completed Mr. Doris will have the strongest annex and concert among the tented exhibitions this season. Snow and ice made poor circus weather the latter part of last week, but the tents were comfortable. This tells the number of people that were inside. Charlie Thomas has signed as head reserved seat ticket seller.
Rays from Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows. We have just finished the month of April, also the State of North Carolina, and are now entering Virginia, where we expect to remain for a few weeks. The show did a splendid business despite the fact that we encountered several days of bad weather. New horses and ponies have been added. . . . Chas. Rheinsmith joined in Stoneville, N.C. Everyone who sees the show say it is the best 25 cent show they have seen. In our last letter we inadvertanly failed to mention in our roster A. J. Wayne, ring master. The weather has settled now and indication point to good weather, which means big business for the World's Progressive in Virginia. . . . The annex has been enlarged and several new people added. Mr. Bauscher is making a reputation and lots of money.
Notes from the Foster Wilkins Great London Shows. Everything is fast getting into shape at our winter quarters and our opening date, May 24, will see this show bigger and better than ever before. Our new 80ft. round top, with 40ft. middle piece, has arrived. It is made of the finest duck and has been treated to a new process, making it absolutely waterproof. Our advance brigade starts this week and will put out some of the finest paper ever used by a 10 and 20 cent show. Every stand is special lithograph work. Our band, under the leadership of Prof. Al. De Berry, will be made a feature of the show. We will carry in all thirty-five people. Roster: M. L. Foster and F. C. Wilkins, sole owners and managers; Charles Thomas, general director; Prof. Al. De Barry, band master; Prof. Claude May and his dog circus; Eddie and Josie Simpson, breakaway ladder; Frank La Vell, contortionist; Fred and Geo. La Plants, acrobats; Ella Reynolds, female clown; D. Taylor, juggler; Mable Loretta, trapeze; Dan C. and Ida Mauning, Dan Pomeroy, Wm. and Hazel Adell.
Lowery Bros.' New Olympia Show notes. Our business is like Prof. David McDade's monster balloon - big. Wherever we exhibit press and public pronounce it to be the best popular priced tented show that ever visited their city. Prof. McDade and his monster balloon ascend nightly, and prove a great card, and the mass of people that gather must come many miles to see him make his daring parachute leap while seven thousand feet from the earth, and the crowd around our tent nightly in a moving mass of humanity. Geo. B. Lowery, sole owner and director; Prof. David McDade, press agent and aeronaut; Wallace Keffer, advance, with three assistants; Prof. J. E. Burtine, equestrian director, with ponies, dogs and donkeys; band of ten people . . . Harry Lynn, contortion and rings; Chas. O'Brien, John D. Jenkins, clowns; Zellar, gymnast; W. Regina, hand balancer; the Kelleys, revolving ladder; Lydia Jenkins, slack wire and club swinger; Jack Zellars, sailor perch, and Baby Irene Kober, contortionist. The Aerialist Kobers will close on May 28 to join the Oriental State Carnival, while the Whitlarks join in Trenton, N.J. for the summer.
From Sig. Sautelle's Shows. By the time a copy of the Clipper reaches us the season's initial parade will have ended and J. E. Ogden, manager of the side show, will be exercising his oratorial powers upon the populace. The department under his supervision, like the big show, has been greatly enlarged and improved, and in front on eighteen double deck banners will be depicted everything to be found within. Equestrian director Charles Watson has the programme completed, and he states it is fille with imperial acts. Superintendent Rhodes finds enought work to keep him busy early and late. The new tents arrived last week, and superintendent of canvas Traver and his men have equipped them with needed ropes and blocks. This season our canvas covers about five acres of ground and looks the real thing. Superintendent of horses Smith has the stock in the pink of condition and fit for the summer's work. General agent Curtis is ___ a clear field ahead. He has the following named men in the first brigade: Bill posters, C. Bell, John Mahoney . . . Harry Moore, Fred Glenn, John Mooney, Fred Jacobs; banners, Oscar Johnson; lithographers, H. E. Griswold, Hal ___. The second brigade is in charge of Earle C. Peck and includes ___, Fred Thomas and Myer Johnson.
Notes from the Jas. M. Goodrich Shows, which opened the season at Western, W. Va., April 28, to packed houses afternoon and evening. Everything with the show is new from bale ring to cook house, and looks as bright as a dollar. Goodrich's stock of trained horses and ponies are in the pink of condition. . . . The band is under the leadership of Jack Hoffman, with the following men: Harry hart, G. A. Hoffman, O. Beckler, J. W. Beckler, J. W. Goldworth, F. Bonestead, R. Fagley, Fred Whitlock, Billy Smith and H. Willard. Performers: Three Rexfords, the Russells, Maude Mardo, Fred Honmer, Nierhart Bros., the Queens, Honmer Hall, Bella Goodrich, James Goodrich, Harry Marshall, Jack McDonnal. Tents and cars under the management of Bill Parker.
Notes from Moore Bros. & Co.'s Two Big Tent Shows, United. We are making Kingfisher, Okla, our winter quarters, and are going to make this our opening point. Things are assuming a business aspect, as the time for opening, May 15, draws near. Our executive staff will be as follows: W. A. Moore, general manager; A. J. Sanderback, treasurer; F. A. Moore, secretary; T. W. Moore, contractor; Fred. Moore, agent; Ed. F. Moore, in charge of advance; Harry Edwards, equestrian director. We will carry fifteen wagons, all new; thirty-eight horses, 80x120 top, and about forty people.
Lulu Mitchell joined the Great Wallace Show at Peru, Ind.
The Dixon, Bowers and Dixon Circus opened in Sidney, N.Y., on May 1, and showed to packed business. During the week we encountered two heavy snow storms, and had one blow down; still, with all our oppositions, business has been away above our expectations. Everything now is running smooth.
Myrtle Day had to cancel her engagement with the John Robinson Shows on account of a severe attack of the grip. She will play parks this summer.
Buckskin Bill's Wild West notes. This show opened May _, at Paducah, Ky. Everything connected with the outfit will be A1. Messrs. Terrell Bros. have expended a large sum of money and spared no expense in arranging details. The canvas, which is entirely new, comprises a horse tent, with an 80ft. round top and five 50ft. middle pieces; dressing tent, 50ft. round top, with 30ft. middle pieces; annex, 80ft. round top, with 50 ft. middle piece; dining tent 30x60ft. The arena will be 300ft. long and 250ft. wide. The seating capacity will include twenty-five lengths of reserved seats and thirty lengths of blues. All seats are to be covered by a waterproof canopy. This show will travel in their own special train of seventeen cars. Our stock will consist of seventy-five head of cow ponies, fifty-five head of baggage horses, with steers, burros, etc. We will also require some twenty-five wagons, all new. The cowboys are sixteen in number, bing the best men available in the Western country. Bill Foster, the noted old time cowboy rifle and revolver expert, will be a feature with the show. There is also a band of genuine vaqueros, direct from Old Mexico. The Indians are forty in number, from the Pin Ridge Agency, S.D. Other features are a band of Roosevelt's rough riders, troupe of Arabs, together with detatchments of United States cavalry, artillery, German, English and French soldiers and Irish lanclers, and Cubans, representing different branches of military service.
Chas. La Selle, late of the La Selle Brothers, acrobats, bar and trapeze performers, died in Houlton, Me., May 13, of the grip, aged fifty-nine years. Interment was mad in the family plot in Rockland, Me. He had formerly traveled with various circuses and minstrel companies, but a few years ago retired from the profession, and entered the insurance business as a traveling agent, in which line he was employed at the time of his death.
New York Clipper, May 26, 1900, p. 297. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Harrington's Combined Shows. This show opened at Cook's Park, Evansville, Ind., May _, to the capacity of the tent at the matinee and turned hundreds away at night. We gave an illuminated parade Saturday night, before the opening - the first night parade ever given in the city by a circus - which was a fine display. Roster: the Three Triplets, Vice, Della and Trip; Vernell and Axley, Al. D. Halle, Joe Ritzel, Will Switzer, Beddie and Baty Harrington, in the dressing frrom; C. O. Parmley, leader of the band; C. L. Baker, H. C. Brown, Chas. Axley, Joe Henley, J. E. Axley, Al. Weierbaucher, Bert Stone, Ted Long and Ed. Ford; W. A. Harrington, in advance with three assistants; Frank Kelzer, assistant contracting agent, and Jim Whalen and Claude Roe, billposters; Claude Vinson, boss canvas man, with three assistants; Chas. Hunnicut, in charge of lights; Dad Murray, in charge of the stock, with six assistants; E. A. Harrington, sole owner and manager.
Notes from the Great Rhoda Royal Shows. Nothing but success has thus far crowned this show, and the first small audience is yet to be catered to. Press and public are unanimous in praise, and many letter of congratulation have been received from official and leading busines. The Eddy Family, Madame Royal, Prof. Berris, M. Rhoda Royal, the Petet Family, the Rough Riders and Thompson Boys are certainly making hits in every city and town. Standing room was at a premium at every night performance last week. Opposition and disagreeable weather have had no effect upon the attendance and that the show is a winner to the fullest limit is a settled fact. Everything is running smoothly and satisfactorily, and all are in the best of spirits. Charlie Thomas has signed as head reserved ticket seller. Mr. Thomas has held a similar position with the leading circuses of the country. He was last season with the Walter L. Main Show. At Ellwood City, Clark Bros. closed their large flass works and provided all their employees with tickets to attend the show.
Notes from the Whitney Big One Ring Show. We opened April 28, at Attica, O., and have been doing good business ever since. The show is new in every detail this season. Prof. John Phillips' band makes a hit daily. Roster: A. V. Whitney, proprietor; C. A. Whitney, general manager; W. Walbourn, business representative; John S. Phillips, leader of band; C. O. Harvey, leader of orchestra; Mart Thomas, master of transportation; J. Phillips, boss canvas man, with seven assistants; E. S. Murphy, general agent; Neola, the Brobst Trio, George, Madge and Baby Stanley; Zaro, W. C. Jenkinson, Leon Whitney, the Walbournes, Will and Lola; C. V. Harvey, H. L. Howard, W. L. Welling, C. L. Prentiss, John S. Phillips, Mrs. G. L. Whitney, Nettie Smith, Martin Thomas, M. Simmons and Alfred Knapp.
The Leondor Bros. Big One Ring Shows opened their third season at Portland, Ore., May 12, for five performances, with 100ft. round top, __ft. middle piece, seventy-eight horses, eighteen wagons and sixty-five people.
Randall and Randall have joined the Rhoda Royal Show for the season, to work in concert and do singing clowns.
Bert Davis has been engaged by the Forepaugh-Sells Shows as press agent, back with the show. James De Wolfe, Frank O. Miler, Whiting Allen and J. M. ___ now consitute the editorial staff ahead of this big institution.
New York Clipper, June 2, 1900, p. 310. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Roster of the Robinson Show. Proprietor and manager, John G. Robinson; general manager of all advance, Gilbert N. Robinson; general agent, Oliver Scott; railroad contractor, Geo. W. Aiken; local contractor, H. I. Ellis; manager advance car No. 1, J. M. J. Kane; manager advance car No. 2, Wm. Dale; chief of opposition brigade, Bob Cullin; auditor, Col. Dan Dale; superintendnet, E. C. Cullin; fron door in charge of John Lowlow; assistant manager and director, Robert Stickney; equestrian director, Wm. Dutton; treasurer, Rudolph Gessley; express agent, Capt. F. B. Wilson; twenty-four hour agent, Charles Robinson; band master M. C. Rogers, with Grace Rogers, cornet soloist and thirty musicians, furnish the music. The side show is in the hands of Phil Ellsworth. Among the equestrian performers we have, of the lady riders, Miss Effie Dutton, principal trick rider; Kittie Kruger, principal rider and four horse act; Louise De Mott, menage; Blanche Hilland, four horse act; Maud Hocum, principal act, and Winnie Van, carrying act; Amy Van, horizontal bars; Mlle. Theole and Nina, revolving aerial act and rings; Maggie Leone, Roman rings and break away perch ladder; Lulu Roberts and little Eva Robers, double trapeze; Flossy Bennet, statues and juggling; Stella Kramer, Anna Tomason, Nina Farrington, race riders . . . Leons and Leona . . . Shondel, Vontello, aerialists and acrobats; Lon Moore, head of clowns, which includes Harry Greene, ___, Jack Rutherford, Scandlin, Al. Hayes, Joe Shondel and Jim Moore; Col. Woods and his educated ponies, second season; Ed. Holden, with his educated pigs. George Steele, Thomas Ambrose, Pete Smeigle, Jas. Orr and Ed. Van Skike, compose our brigade of ticket sellers; master of transportation, Chas. H. Underwood and eight assistants; the canvas is in the hands of James Caskey, with eight assistants; the side show canvas is in the hands of Rhos. Fairchild, with two assistants; Wm. Fulker, boss hostler, with two assistants; Wm. McCoy, boss property man, with three assistants; Carl Kramer, master of scenery, with two assistants; Harry Heinz, ring stock boss; Ed. Sherwood, in charge of commissary department. The rank and file of the show numbers 282 people. Our train, which is run in two sections, numbers forty-two cars. Never in the history of the Robinson Show has it been more complete than one now finds it. Our parade is commented on by press and public unanimously as without a peer in the circus business. A thirty cage menagerie, no two of which cages are alike either in design or color. All harness and trappings are absolutely new, and visiting showmen pronounce the show at the top of the list. We are carrying a complement of two hundred and forty head of horses, fifty-eight ponies, and, with the new shipment of elephants, secured by Mr. Robinson this winter, which will reach us in about ten days, we will have a herd of seven elephants. Add to this twenty-two camels, all of which we have succeeded in harnessing togehter, and which form the distinguishing feature of the parade. Business has been, up to late, more than satisfactory.
Roster of Gollmar Bros.' Two Ring Circus and Menagerie. Gollmar Bros., sole proprietors; Chas. H. Gollmar, manager; B. F. Gollmar, treasurer; Fred Gollmar, advance manager; W. A. Gollmar, equestrian manager; Frank MaCort, manager of annex; James Fitzgerald, manager of concert; Ed. Jamison, contractor. H. Sylvester, program; D. C. Hall, cook house; Ed. Maher, candy stand; George Shumway, boss butcher; Chas. Williams, boss canvas man of big top; Curly Ross, boss canvas man of menagerie; "Dutch," boss canvas man of annex; Frank Eart, boss property man; George Dicks, boss wardrobe man; Tim Buckley, boss elephant man; Jack Jordan, boss animal man; Jack Katen, boss hostler; Prof. Frank Seavey, bandmaster, with the following men: W. Huckins, H. F. Hall, E. E. Peaslee, Ed. Fowler, Chas. Heartell, W. Fink, Vic Graham, Frank Graham, Chas. ___, J. F. Marsh and J. H. Franklin. Prof. J. G. Norris, leader of band No. 2, with the following men: Harry Brandon, Wm. Willis, F. H. Golden, A. C. Golden, Frank Gilley and Chas. Goldsmith. Drum Corps, with the following men: Fred Shaw, George Vase, W. Ward and M. Larkins. Performers in big show: John Rooney, somersault rider; Willis Gollmar, somersault rider; Herr Drayton, cannon ball king; Harry Brandon and Otto Weaber, wire walkers . . . Walt Gollmar, trained pigs; Shaw Bros., double aerial act; Mrs. Harry Brandon, juggler; May Vano, juggler; Fred and Walter Shaw, single trapeze; Wm. Danzell and Madame Irene, manege acts; POsento and Weaber, balancing trapeze; Herr Drayton, foot juggler; Frank Lavo, foot juggler; John Rooney and Willis Gollmar, jockey riders; May Lano and Wm. Daizell, hurdle and four horse riders; Harry Brandon, Fred Shaw, Walter Shaw, W. Ward and George ___, clowns; Palm, the educated elephant, worked by Prof. Buckley; James Fitzgerald, Walt Gollmar, John Rooney and Willis Gollmar, ring masters. Concert people: Harry Brandon, Mrs. Harry Brandon . . . May Tano and James Fitzgerald. Annex people: Frank MaCort, Jessie MaCort, Vivian MaCort, Prof. Dan Hall, mental wonder; Madame Blandell and Jessie Hall. Outside exhibition by Harry Brandon, James Fitzgerald and Prince, high diving dog. The show has been enlarged to a considerable extent, and opened at Baraboo, Wis., to big business, which has kept up to the present writing.
Notes and roster of Reed's 25 cent European Shows. A. H. Reed, proprietor and manager; Mrs. Viola Reed, treasurer. We carry a company of thirty-eight people, using twelve wagons and thirty head of stock to transport the show. Big top 70x100 ft.; 30ft. dressing room, __ horse tent, __ dining tent. Frank Dempsey has charge of canvas, with eight assistants. Col Jim Hays has the side show and concert; Dan ___, leader of band, with the following musicians: T. Morris, G. Upchurch, Billy Lowe, E. Boyce, Pete Waite, Peggey Long and Fred Brenner. Performers with the big show: . . . Billy Lowe, talking and singing clown; Brenner and Dunhan, bars and revolving ladder . . . Rialdo, equilibrist, aerialist and knockabout clown; Mrs. Viola Ree's troupe of educated dogs and ponies. Little Lena Hays' singing and dancing is a feature in the concerts. C. H. Rigall, advance representative, with two assistants, is doing good work ahead. Out route lies through Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky. Business is good as can be expected at present. This is our fifth week out and the ghost walks regularly.
Reno's Oriental Show notes. We are now in the third week of phenomenal business. We have had plenty of rainy weather, but it has only had a tendency to boom our business. Our programme is far ahead of anything presented by any shows ever through this section. Our roster embraces the Famous Martinnetties' three brohter act; Kelman and Fraser, combined triple bars and casting act; Arnold and Ryan, double traps; Denny Dolan, contortionist; Little Emily, slack wire; Hibbard and Basco, revolving ladder; Arthur Humeston, principal clown; Edward Reno's trained dogs and ponies; Auline Reno, in terpsichorean specialty; C. A. Hibbard, swinging wire act; La Basco Bros., return act, and theodore Nelmonia, bounding rope. Our line of tumbling is under the supervision of Edwain Martinettie. Our band of eight is under the leadership of Prof. Stevens. Our parade is flashy and receives hearty compliments. Our stock, forty-four head, is attended by Albert ___, with six assistants. Our new special of canvas, 80x130ft., is under the supervision of Joseph Groves, with seven assistants. Chas. Arnold is boss property man, with three assistants, with Wm. Cone, chandeliers. Our cook house is presided over by Robert Dorsey, head chef, with five assistants, and is voted A No. 1. The old timer, Winfield Scott, is our night watch. We carry forty-two people, forty-four head of stock and sixteen wagons. Our advance brigade consists of W. B. Alvord and King Solman, contractors, with three wagons and four assistants.
The Merchants' American R. R. Circus opened at Corry, Pa., May 10, where three performances were given, to good business, and this has been the rule every day since. The show has two cars and spreads an 80ft. top, with 50ft. middle piece. There are fort people with the show. The principal features are Loretta's horse, Fred, whose work is marvelous, and distinctly different from that of others, and the high diving dog Dot, which climbs to the top of a 70ft. ladder and makes the dive without hesitation. Following are the other ring acts: Holman Bros., bars; Josie St. Arno, flying rings; Loretta, single traps; the Lavernes, double traps; Oscar Holman, perch; Inman, acrobatic contortion act; Bruce Clark, clown, and the whole company in leaps and ground work. The band, which consists of twelve musicians, is a cracker jack. The roster: C. F. Brown, musical director; Gus. Jacqua, R. Adams, H. C. Pfaff, N. Terwilliger, Geo. Edwards, C. Snyder, C. Mensenger, Geo. La Val, Geo. Herrick, V. McGraw and L. F. Trimble.
From Sig. Sautelle's Big 25 Cent Shows. Failure upon the part of our weather clerk to "fix" Nature resulted in a chilly atmosphere for our opening at Homer, N.Y. The initial performances had long been the sole topic of conversation all over the neighborhood, and the frigid weather in no way interfered with business, the big top being packed to the ring bank at both the afternoon and evening performances. The whole town was in holiday attire and at noon the public schools and factories were closed for the remainder of the day. A low temperature and rain have been dividing honors for several days, yet this handicap is easily beaten out by "the world's greatest," the first week's receipts of which have shattered all previous records, and Mr. Sautelle is warranted in believing the present season will prove the most prosperous he has ever known. Dave Haley is our general agent, and not Mr. Curtis, as was erroneously stated. During the next week we will hae one of three big railroad shows in opposition at one stand or another, yet we are bound to get our share of business. Our Utica date will long be remembered as Grand Army Day from the fact that both shows were visited by several hundred veterans, who had been in attendance at the State encampment. In Cortland we added a new team of blacks to our equine department, which was further increased in numbers by the purchase of a third black horse, in Norwich. Wherever we exhibit the press and public unhesitatingly pronounce our the largest, best, and most pleasing 25 cent circus extant.
New York Clipper, June 9, 1900, pp. 332, 333, 335. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Welsh Bros.' Newest Great. The fifth week of the present season has just been concluded . . . The Keystone State has been the base of our operations. Lancaster, Columbia, Lebanon, Harrisburg, Reading, Allentown, South Bethlehem and ___ furnished capacity audiences at nearly every performance. . . . The big show act that are scoring heavily are: . . . the St. Alban Sisters, dual aerial expositors; Louis Beauvais, in miraculous backward dives from a twenty foot ladder to the ground; Misses Dair, Vera and Zanta, in novelty aerial specialties; Harry Mohn's combined ponies and dogs; Berger, Bard and Ducrow, triple bar experts, and Alfred ___, upside down equilibrist. The clown sextette (Max Hugo, Harry F. West, Jos. Kearney, Jos. Ducrow, Pete Watson and Claude La Motte, the clown band, the trained giraffe "Jargo," and the vocal quartet are among the comic entrees exploited by these fun makers. The "after show" is drawing big patronage and giving first class satisfaction. Claude and Nellie La Motte, with their Hindoostan cabinet mystery, are the feature of this department. Herbert H. Whittier's musican marvels are proving to be an important factor in the success of the show; their concerts previous to the opening of the performance are always received with tumults of applause. Charles Gerlach, solo cornettist, and J. J. Barnhart, tuba soloist, are recent additions to this organization. Recent visitors to the show were Alf. T. Ringling and wife, of the Ringling Shows; Major Gordon W. Lillie, of Pawnee Bill's Show, and John H. Sparks, of the Sparks Shows, and all expressed themselves as being well pleased with our "little family" show. The coming month will find us in the state of New Jersey, our first visit through that section of the country.
Notes from Shott Bros.' Great Olympia Shows. We are now in our third week, and business is good. Roster: Shott Bros., proprietors; I. D. Shott [J. D.?], manager; Wm. Shott, treasurer; John Shott, advance No. 1, with three assistants; Henry Garrett, advance No. 2, with two assistants; E. D. Shott, in charge of privileges; La Verde Bros., bars and acrobats; Ogden Family, aerialists; W. Peters, juggler; Chas. Ogden, wire and flying trapeze; William Snead, tumbling and hand balancing; Shott Bros., revolving ladder and return act; Morello, flying rings and perch; the Lourean Sisters, double traps and breakaway ladder; Little Edna Ogden, the six year old contortionist; Joe Warden, singing and talking clown; ___, Snead and Shott, knock about clowns. Side show: Prof. Goldie and Mlle. Margurite, Joe. Gardner, Eddie Ogden, Joe and Ida Clark. Our layout is a 70ft. top with a 30ft. middle, dressing 30x50; side show, 40x60; horse tents, 30x70; cook tent, 20x30; fourteen wagons and thirty head of stock. Jerry ___, boss canvas man, with eight assistants; Charlie Kirby, boss hostler, with six assistants; Frank Webb, head cook, with three assistants. Prof. W. H. Ashdown is making balloon ascensionns and parachute jumps daily, with his mammoth balloon, the largest ever carried by a wagon show. We are featuring Prof. Elbert M. Lilly's concert band, consisting of the following musicians: Elbert M. Lilly, leader and director; Albert ___, Robt. Elliott, Edward Swann, H. J. Kelly, Billy Mann, Harry Frankfort, C. J. Ogden, Ed. De Roe, C. F. Land, Napoleon ___, A. C. Riedinger, J. E. Warden and Wm. Snead.
Bonheur Bros.' notes. The show under its new christening, "The New Golden Allied Shows," started earlier by several weeks on its tour this season than in any previous year since it was organized. Bonheur Bros.' three distinct shows under one canvas is now making a record, and a continuous stream of shining silver flows into its coffers from the time of opening the doors till the performance is on, and every one is full of praise of the excellent programmes presented. The wagons rolled out of winter quarters in a golden blaze of glory. The big top is an 80ft. with two 40ft. middle pieces; poles all painted in ___ blue. The horse tent is new and accommodates forty head of stock. Eighteen wagons carry the show, with two wagons in advance, under the management of H. G. Bonheur. Four splendid teams of mules have been added since leaving the quarters. The Black Tent is an additional attraction for afternoon and night shows. A much larger company than in any previous season has been assembled, and all are harmoniously working. Success crowns every effort of the managers. The opening show was given in Augusta, to overwhelming crowds, in spite of rain and mud. Nearly a week of rain had rendered the roads almost impassable, and on April 26 it ceased long enough to allow the show to be given, and resumed its downpour immediately after the night concert. Friday was not billed, but left out to finish arranging for the summer tour. It rained all day Friday till Saturday morning; then it cleared up bright and the tents again went up to fair skies and a big gathering of sightseers. Despite mud and mire the popular showmen were greeted with the biggest ovation Augusta ever witnessed. Roster of the show in part as follows: H. A. Bonheur, vice president; J. R. Bonheur, president; H. G. Bonheur, advance agent, sole owners and managers; Louis Westfall, secretary; E. H. Keetch, Lida Keetch, Edward Brenne, Maud Brenne, Sybil Keetch, Jack Lackore, E. N. Whitmarsh, Henry Young, Elmer Young, Roy Bickford, Eph ___, William Shannon, Oklahoma Bill, Nathan Irwin, Earl H. Saunders, Will Harper, Arch Allen, George Fuller, "Popcorn George," Chas. Britton, T. J. Dawson, ___, and Louis Westfall, son of Conductor Westfall, who was killed at Winston, Mo., by Jesse James.
George E. Elser, while giving an exhibition of his riding at Orange, N.J., May 21, accidentally fell from his horse, taking the skin completely off one side of his nose and cutting an ugly gash over his left eye, which required six stitches to close; besides, his head was cut in many places. He was unconcious two hours. Mr. Elser had just returned from the Barnum & Bailey Circus in Germany.
Roster of advance guard of Cullin Bros.' Shows: Robt. J. Mercer, contracting agent; Al Mable, official programmer; R. J. Thomas, boss bill poster, with four assistants.
Notes from the Wm. H. Gillmeyer's Show. On our opening week, in Camden, N.J., business was big. On May _, in Ardmore, Pa., the home of W. H. Gillmeyer, we were unable to show owing to a severe rainfall, continuing all day. We opened in Philadelphia May 21, for a few weeks. On our opening night there were fully 1,000 turned away unable to get in. One of the great features of the show is Madam Yucca, who drives the No. 1 band chariot, with eight handsome horses, in the street parade, which is quite a novelty. Now Mamie Forepaugh is insisting that the manager allow her to drive chariot No. 2, but wants sixteen horses on it. Manager Golt is trying to persuade her to accept twelve horses, but by the time this reaches you no doubt she will be driving the sixteen horses. Mr. Gillmeyer has purchased six handsome performing ponies, which he has added to the show this week. Willie Lowanda and his trained dog and pony; Miss Wilson, trapeze artist . . . Mr. Whittaker is making a great success with his jockey act. E. J. Holland, the principal clown singer, has made good with his songs. The show intendes to visit the large cities only this season.
Notes from Tony Lowande's Show. We closed a prosperous winter season in ___ de Cuba, May _, and organized an entire new company. We are now in the Vueta Abaja, the great tobacco country of Cuba, where the name "Lowande" has reigned supreme for years. Business is tremendous. The prices of admission are as follows: general admission, $1; reserved chairs, $1 eatra; boxes, with four chairs, $5 extra; children 50c. The company: Tony Lowande, proprietor and manager; Josie Lowande, equestrienne; Lillie Meers, equestrienne; Marie Luisa, impersonating Cuban negro dances; Mlle. Rita, sensational aerialist; Juanita Reyes, flying rings; Mlle. Eva, contortionist; the Great Tatali, contortion rings; Archie O'Brien, jockey and mule hurdle rider; Rita and Humberto, equilibrist; Pedro Forres, clown swing and negro comedian; Aurello Reyes, clown; Magil Romero, Cuban clown; Daniel Titoe, leader of band; Rafael Argote, agent No. 1; Isadore Ortega, agent No. 2.
Charles Stewart McFetridge died at Birmingham, Ala., May 21, from the effects of a pistol shot fired by R. S. Alden, in that city, May 4. The shooting grew out of an alleged assault upon Allen by McFetridge, who was said to be insanely jealous of his wife, Mlle. A. Louisa. He was with the Bostock Carnival Co., in 1899, as boss canvas man, and has acted in the same capacity for Franklin Robinson, Sells and Jno. Robinson's Shows. His home is in Trenton, N.J. He was thirty-three years old and has three brothers, William, at Cambridge, Mass; Tom, who is a potter, at Cincinnati, and Joe, a baker, in the same city. He was shot last Fall, at the State Fair at Birmigham, in the German Village on the Midway, and although badly wounded recovered after a long seige in the hospital. His wife, Mlle. Louisa, has at different times done bareback riding, wire walking, ballooning and Spanish dancing.
Roster of advance No. 1, Walter J. McDonald's Combined Colossal Shows. Harry Busenbark, agent; Fred Jones, Harry Bradley, Wm. Budy, Spot Sickles and Frank Cahn, billposters; Chas. Harris, lithographer; Jack Smith, programmer.
Frank F. La Vell and De Forest F. Taylor, after a separation of two years, have again joined hands, and are with Foster & Wilkins' London Circus, touring New York State.
Edmund J. Gardner, trap drummer, died May 18, at the home of his mother, Mrs. Nett M. Gardner, In Pulaski, N.Y., after a bried illness, aged thirty-three years. The remains were taken to Watertown, where the funeral was conducted, 20, by the Improved Order of Red Men, of which organization deceased was a member. He had traveled with the Al. G. Field Minstrels, Sig. Sautelle's Circus, Stone's "U.T.C.," and various other companies. His last engagement was at Henderson's New Music Hall, Coney Island.
Rialdo is now in his eighth week with Reed's European Shows. Frank Harrison, cornet player, and Ed Basquill, slide trombone player, joined May __.
Notes from Rice & Davis Big United Shows. We began our season April __, at Brockwayville, Pa., to packed houses, and since the opening have done exceptionally good business. We are touring through Western Pennsylvania, and played day and date with the Elton Bros. Show at Tarr, Pa., and both shows did good business. We also had opposition at Mt. Pleasant, with the Parks Show, under canvas, playing on the same lot, and notwithstanding the rainy weather, both of us did fair business. J. A. Jone, our manager, handles everything, and does it with a will.
New York Clipper, June 16, 1900, p. 357. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Elton Bros.' Show. We are on our seventh week of good business. The advance brigade includes H. O. Cunningham, with two assistants. Roster: Sig. Elton and Delbert Yance, proprietors; Sig. Elton, manager; Delbert Yance, treasurer; Prof. G. Irving and Madame Labelle, Arthur Crawford, Chas. Arthur, J. M. Kelly . . . Sig. Elton and Prof. Geo. Clark's troupe of canines. Concert people: J. M. Kelly, Arthur Crawford . . . Our band is under the direction of Prof. C. E. Valentie, with ten musicians: Arthur Early, Frank Fogg . . . Frank Drenne, H. Folk, G. Hanly and W. Boyle. Our big top is 80ft. round top with 40ft. middle piece, twenty lengths of seats. Our horse tents, two, __ft., with forty head of stock. Boss hostler ___ Sackett, with fourteen assistants; boss canvasman, W. Norman, with ten assistants; boss props, John Hickel, with two assistants.
Advance brigade of William Sells & Gray's Circus, season 1900: E. L. Brannan, general agent and railroad contractor; Fred McMann, manager car No. 1; Geo. Combs, local contractor; H. Gordon, press agent; James Jenkins, boss bill poster; H. Theale, B. E. Fitchey . . . F. M. Cappo, James Rodgers, Geo. Arment, Frank Moon and D. R. Davidson, bill posters; Toney Crandall, lithographer; Geo. B. Cook, official programmer. Second advertising brigade: . . . Jno. Warner, boss bill poster; Frank Howard, programmer . . .
Through an oversight the name of Basil McHenry, advance and contracting agent, was omitted from the roster of the Gollmer Bros.' Shows.
Frank Le Roy writes: "I had a very bad accident at St. Thomas with the Lemen Bros. Circus. After the show I went to thecars, and while walking down the railroad track I fell down a trestle twelve feet and broke one of my ribs and suffered internal injuries. I had three doctors to attend me, and was confined to my bed, but after eight days I want to work again, and I am getting along nicely. My female clowning is quite a hit in parade and concert."
New York Clipper, June 23, 1900, p. 377. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
John D. Carey, press agent with the great Rhoda Royal Shows, sends the following: "Six weeks out and nothing but success to tell of. Everything to make the life of a showman unhappy has been encountered, but quickly overcome. Opposition, rain and wind have been met and vanquished. Not a performance lost, and at every turn the figures have been placed on the right side of the ledger. Papers and public alike unite in sounding the praise of this amusement enterprise, and the first complaint is yet to be heard. Everyone is well and happy, and that confidence so often lacking between employer and employee is agreeable conspicuous with the Rhoda Royal people. Our stock, under the direct supervision of Rhoda Royal, is a show in itself, and horsemen in every city and town pronounce it the finest lot of pure and sound horses ever seen together. Madame Royal, in her menage act, introducing her cake walking Arabian horses, is a feature that has won for her columns of press notices and the plaudits of thousands. Prof. Joseph Berris and is sixty-three trained horses has won out ever audience, and he has had to reappear on several occasions. The Eddy Family, now increased to six members are winning new laurels, as is Madame Peter, on the bounding wire; the Petet Family, the Thompson boys, rough riders, and, in fact, every feature with the show. William J. Doris, manager of privileges, has surrounded himself, both in the concert and side show, with features that cause no little favorable comment. Olga has received a new consignment of snakes and alligators that are the centre of attraction. Tony Richardson, treasurer, is renewing many old acquaintances through Pennsylvania. Tony was a successful politician and mayor of Ashtabula, Ohio, and his return to the show field from that political is proving a wise one. . . . Tony Richardson has organized a class to join the Elks, and twelve new members will be added to the Ashtabula Lodge. Among the visitors last week were George Aiken, Harry Dale, and representatives from the Phillips 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' Show and Merchant's Railroad Circus. . . . "
The proprietors and members of the John Robinson Shows immediately after the afternoon performance at Sandusky, O., June _, headed by John ?. Robinson, E. C. Cullen, Wm. Dutton and wife, Capt. Wilson, the genial press agent; Chas. Constatine, performers and others, accompanied by the circus band, proceeded in a body to beautiful Oakland cemetery, where repose the remains of Merritt F. Young, for years treasurer of the Barnum & Bailey Shows. At the grave Ed. C. Cullen made a few remarks appropriate to the solemnity of the occasion, and the band played several dirges, after which those present deposited a most beautiful floral design on the grave . . . with the inscription, "Gone, But Not Forgotten." Many a silent tear was shed during the services, attesting the respect in which Mr. Young was held by the show fraternity, from canvas man to proprietor. Perhaps no man who was ever identified with the amusement profession had achieved so large an amount of personal friendship and esteem, and the news of his death in Jun, 1897, fell like a pall wherever it was received. As the years go by the memory of his good deeds, as well as his kind and genial nature, seems to take a firmer hold upon his old comrades. For this reason no circus company of any prominence that has visited Sandusky since his body was consigned to its last resting place has failed to visit the grave and give expression to their feelings of love and respect.
Notes from the Great Van Amburg & Gallagher Combined Shows. This is our sixth week out and business continues good. Since our opening at Buffalo we have experienced but two rain storms, one at Batavia, N.Y., June 1, and another at Avon, N.Y., 7. The Avon storm was a fierce one. It started at just 8 p.m., with the hippodrome top packed to the ring bank, and it looked very much as if it was going to put us out of business for a few days, until we could get a new canvas. But, fortunately, no damage of importance was done, with the exception of the snapping of a quarter pole and a few side guys. At 8"30 the storm had ceased, and we raised our peaks and lights and started the show. Roster: J. A. Van Amburg & J. P. Gallagher, equal owners; J. G. Hodgins, general agent; Jim Bradley, boss bill poster; Claud Yerkes, in charge of programmes and banners; W. L. Salvail, concert privilege; Miss Salvali, Belle Moroson, Flossie La Blanche, ___, Prof. Swain and wife, trained monks, cockatoos and chickens; Al. Clark, the wild Philippino, Prof. Kirsh, the Wilsons, Fred and Mabel; the Howards, Revetta, J. Dan Rice, trained pigs; Chas. Merathew, leader of band; ___, Harrington, Le Valley, ___, Thompson . . .
Roster of Whittier's Concert Band, with Welsh Bros.' Newest Great Railroad Shows: B. H. Whittier, musical director, Chas. Gerlach, Jas Flannery, ___ S. Beidini, Geo. Young, W. R. Bartham, R. A. Proctor, Clarence Wright, J. Bernhart, ___ and R. West.
Roster of Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' advance car No. 3: H. A. Mann, manager; H. A. Thorpe, boss bill poster; A. Hammell, J. R. Maloney, Geo. Mulvery, Geo. Murray, ___, A. Belfry . . . bill posters; D. C. Mann, paste maker; W. T. Boyer, banners.
Chas. H. Day's latest story is now running in Golden Hours. It is entitled "Herr Driesbach, the Lion King." The hero of the tale is the late lamented Hyatt Frost, and the action occurs at Cincinnati, O., and Connelsville, Ind., in 1866, and introduces, besides Herr Driesbach, James Raymond, the most famous circus manager of his day; his partner, Waring, and ___, their business manager; also Albert Townsend, the celebrated elephant trainer and performer, who is still living in Putman Co., New York State, at the age of eighty-two. Besides being a story of the times it possesses historical interest and accuracy.
Notes from the Walter J. McDonald Combined Colossal Shows. The rapid pace set by this show in its race for patronage from the start is being steadily maintained, and it appears from present indications that it will reach the goal of success. On May 26, that being the anniversary of the birth of Mrs. Walter J. McDonald, she was substantially remembered by members of the circus, all having something to offer individually, while jointly the company presented her with a beautiful silver service.
Jackson, Mich., sent out this press dispatch June __: "While trying to rescue a child from the river last evening, Robert E. Emmons, a young circus performer, was drowned. Emmons is well known all over the country as a trainer of circus ponies and trick dogs. Last evening he started to go fishing on the Grand River, taking along John ___, the six year old son of a neighbor. While crossing the river on the Lake Shore Railroad bridge, the boy fell in and Emmons plunged after him, but became stuck in the mud and weeds and was unable to extricate himself. Both bodies were recovered an hour later."
Notes from the Ballenger Family Pavilion Show. We opened our show on May _, this making our sixth week out. We are peacefully and triumphantly making our way through the good old State of Virginia, and can truthfully state that we have been doing a large business all along. . . . Our complete roster is as follows: Matt Ballenger, general manager; Frank Warner, superintendent; ___, assistant superintendent; Mrs. Matt Ballenger, treasurer; Verna Ballenger, leader of band . . . Performers: . . . Verna Ballenger and Master Percy, double contortion; Orman Grant and Mae Boyle, sketch, producing Dutch, Irish, and negro specialties . . . Daly and Freeman, double trapeze and flying return act; James Warner, principal taling and knockabout clown; ___ Daly, sensational cloud swing; Lizzie Ballenger, feats of strength with teeth and jaws and giant slide for life; Verna Ballenger, troupe of educated canines; Maron and Daly, acrobatic comiques . . .
Notes from Capt. W. D. Ament's Big City Show. Everything around the show is moving along nicely, and houses for the past two weeks have been record breakers. At Elgin we were obliged to turn people away by hundreds, it being utterly impossible to accommodate the crowds. The show has been greatly strengthened the past four weeks, all the bad acts being weeded out and new people taking their places, until every act is a strong feature. The performance is a pleasant surprise to the many patrons, and goes like wild fire from start to finish. The new arrivals are: Fred Welcome and Pearl Forepaugh, aerialists; Chas. Reynard, comedian; James Dashington, contortionist. Prof. Gilliam has also joined, and will break ten head of trick ponies for the show. A. J. Sharpley, advance agent, closed two weeks ago, W. W. Potts taking his place. Mr. Potts is doing some great work ahead of the show, billing it as it has never been billed before. Capt. Ament purchased a fine __ft. Pullman car a few days ago, and we will now have our own hotel. We have been playing one day stands this week at increased prices, and the experiment has been a financial winner. We are now headed north into Wisconsin, and will visit all the great lake resorts during the hot months.
New York Clipper, June 30, 1900, p. 395. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Rhoda Royal notes. Seven weeks out and only success has been meted out to the Great Rhoda Royal Shows. Since leaving winter quarters the show has been enlarged in almost every department, until now the title of "Little Show" has been entirely buried, and it is ranking with the larger ones. Opposition and the most uncircuslike weather have been encountered and overcome, and large and small towns alike conquered. On every side press and public have unanimously sounded its praise and complimented on its varied programme and clean ___. No tented exhibition on the road today carries a finer collection of horses or better conditioned. This week twelve perfectly matched dapple greys will arrive for the band wagon. They were purchased by Rhoda Royal from one of the most prominent stock breeders in Pennsylvania. This will give the show over eighty head of blooded stock. Prof. Joseph Berris is making a decided hit with his sixty-three horse act. He has his equine pupils trained to a degree of perfection that is surely wonderful. Prof. Berris is sure to bring the audience with him at every performance. Mme. Royal and her menage act is a feature that is captivating all. Her cake walking horses bring her well merited applause. The Eddy Family, both in aerial work and ground tumbling, are adding to their well established reputation. The youngest member,"Johnny-on-the-Spot," is making not only professional friends but, like the old man himself, personal ones. The Petet Family, in their aerial work, which is clowned by Tom Petet, never fails to catch on, and old and young alike insist upon an encore. The Thompson Boys, rough riders, and the score of other features all go to make up a programme that is making for the Great Rhoda Royal Shows a lasting reputation. Rhoda Royal personally gives everything his attention, and to him and Prof. Berris alone is the success of the show to be credited. Messrs Royal and Berris do not know the meaning of an idle moment, and are the first on and the last off of the lot. William T. Doris superintends all privileges, and the bare mention of his name is a guarantee that his end is well kept up. W. W. Powers, railroad contracting agent, and the only "Tony" Richardson, compete the list of those who are useful and not ornamental. "Tony" Richardson has formed a class of ten who have filed application for membership in the Elks. It is probable they will be admitted next week. Mr. I. V. Strebig, nee Ada Melrose, formerly of "A Hot Old Time" Co., who joined to do concert work, has been too ill since coming on to appear.
Notes from the Skerbeck & Co. One Ring Show. We are now in our eighth week through Wisconsin and Michigan. The show is en route to the Pacific coast. We have a 100ft. round top, with a 50ft. middle piece; a side show top of 50ft., with 30ft. middle piece; a dressing room tent, 40x60, and a horse tent, 30x60. We carry eighteen head of stock, and travel in four cars. We also carry Prof. E. Williams, with his troupe of trained horses and dogs. Roster: Frank Sherbeck, sole owner; Joe Skerbeck, manager; Mary Skerbeck, treasurer; Gus and Alice Skerbeck, Anton Skerbeck, Frankie Skerbeck, Manda Skerbeck, Pearl Skerbeck, Clara Skerbeck, Alice Clark, Myers and Ross, Tina ___, James Murphy, Steve Miller, Geo. Wilson, Geo. Scott, Johnny Fox, Mons. De Bushie, Madame Zola, London Smith. Our famous concert band included: Prof. J. A. Ritzman, leader; Chas Meyers, Robinson, Chas. Luckey, G. Thomas, Joe ___, Fritz Meyers, Joe ___, Geo. Krone, Ernest Thrams, B. Thrams, N. Thrams, James Myers, J. A. Lane, Gus Skerbeck, Geo. Hartman, J. Nelson. James Stone, boss canvas man; Emet Parmeter, boss hostler; Chas. Nelson, boss property man. Our advance is doing good work under C. Baldwin.
Roster of Sig. Sautelle's Circus advance No. 1: Harry F. Curtis, general agent; C. J. Devlin, boss bill poster; H. E. Kuhns, lithographer; Ed. Gray, banners and programmes; J. C. Mitchell, Geo. Sullivan, H. E. Griswald and J. J. Mahoney. No. 2, Earl Peck and Geo. ___.
Mannie Forepaugh writes us as follows: "I wish you would kindly contradict the statement that I wanted to drive sixteen horses in a chariot with the W. H. Gillmeyer Show. Owing to the show not having ring stock I gave two weeks' notice and closed."
Austin & Bechter have secured the privileges with Hargreaves' Big Railroad Shows. They have just added a 65ft. sleeper to the show, making it five cars. They had a bad fire on Saturday night, June 16. The cook house wagon and contents caught fire, burning everything.
Notes from Mitchell's Big Pavilion Show. West Virginia is the territory now invaded by the show, and the natives pronounce it the best twenty-five cent show they have seen. Business has been phenomenal for the past seven weeks. Everybody is happy, and the Clipper and salary day, with the man in white, make regular weekly calls. The roster now stands as follows: W. L. Mitchell, sole proprietor and manager; Boyd Mitchell, treasurer; Doc Mitchell, general superintendent; C. H. Green, boss canvas man, with ten assistants . . . H. L. Gordon, in charge of advance brigade. The horse tent is filled with the finest stock that could be procured, and is being increased. The performers are . . . Mitchell and Birmingham, double traps; the Lowder Trio, in songs and dances; Lloyd Merrill, barrel kicker; Ray Hillman, wire walker. The Sisters Lowther are pleasing with their banjo juggling. . . . Will Birmingham is meeting with big success with his aerial work and breakaway finish. . . . The Lowther Family orchestra furnishes the music under the big top, and Happy Jack Lowther heads the outside demonstration. Out of seven weeks out we have had three weeks of almost continuous rain, but have lost only one night. The weather has now turned out beautiful, and we have hard work to take care of the increase in attendance.
Notes from the J. W. Goodrich Mammoth Shows. This finds us in our second week in New Jersey, back in our old territory, playing to packed houses every performance. Everything is running smoothly with the show. Manager Goodrich added two more horses to his hack wagon, making a better display on parade. Norton and ___ have joined to do their breadaway ladders, also their double speciality in concert. Jno. Russell and Wm. Neidhart are being featured in their strong and barrell jumping act. Master Lawrence, our contortionist, has added a perch pole act, and J. W. Walters and Billy Goldsworth have joined the band forces, making our band of ten pieces one of the best on the road. The band is under the direction of J. A. Hoffman, and is being featured in concert, making a hit wherever we show. . . .
Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Circus. We opened at Linesville, Pa., May 7, to big business, and continue to play to the same every night. Our show is larger and better than ever. We now have a 75 round top, seating capacity 1,000, fourteen head of horses, seven wagons and two advance wagons. Our trained dogs are a feature. We have twenty-one street curs, that do one hundred and nine different tricks. Chas. W. McClintock joined June 8, at Bethlehem, to do the contracting. Roster of company: A. F. Tuttle, proprietor; Mrs. A. F. Tuttle, manager; Chas. W. McClintock, contracting agent; Carl Geyer, bill poster; Harry Howell, programmer; Prof. Chas. McBride, leader of orchestra; Ed. and Nellie Thardo, knife and battle axe throwers; John Jenkins, black face comedian; Harry Oberfelt, slack wire; Jack and Jennie Troy, skets; Leonzo and Troy, human pythons; Mons. Colby, juggler; George Riley, boss canvas man. Ed Thardo is making quite a hit with his trick donkey, Radix. We travel by wagon and stop at hotels. We have seven canvas men and drivers. The white man walks every Sunday . . . We have been out six weeks, and haven't had a losing night.
Roster of Gollmar Bros.' Leading Shows of the World advance: Fred C. Gollmar, general agent and manager of advance; Dick Hunter, contractor; Ed. Jamison, advertising agetn; Melvin Smith, in charge of No. 1 brigade . . . billposters, Mel. Smith, Frank Brusson, __ Holland, Smith Lee, Charles Corson, Frank Billings and Wm. Saxton; Frank Jones, lithographer; H. Sylvester, official programmer.
Roster of the Tayor Shows' advance wagon No. 1: Thos. Alton, press agent; H. H. Graham, boss bill poster; Ara Morris, D. S. Perry, ___, Otto Windell, Ray Mills, lithographers; B. W. Turk, programmer; Clarence Downey, in charge of advance; Thos. Alton and F. A. Seymour, in charge of wagon No. 2, with four men.
Dan O'Brien and wife (known as Nettie Collins) have returned from Rio Janiero, Brazil, South America, where they have been performing with Carlo's Circus.
New York Clipper, July 7, 1900, p. 417. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Van Amburg & Gallagher's Combined All Feature Shows. We are having ideal circus weather, and enjoying the beautiful climate of the central New York lakes. Manager Gallagher has returned from this two week's prospecting tour, and reports everything bright in advance. During is tour he visited seven shows, circus and "Uncle Toms." The Barkers, aerialists, joined at Naples, N.Y., June 18, and the Simpson, carrying perch, joined at Pen Yan, 22. Mr. Gallagher visited the Wallace Shows at Elmira, N.Y., June __, with a view to purchasing a performing elephant. Wallace and Van Amburg & Gallagher are a little apart in price at this writing, but before the next issue of the Clipper we will have the elephant in, which will add greatly to our already strong show. The circus will close Sept. 20, and Russell's Comedians, of which Messrs. Van Amburg & Gallagher are sole owners, will open the season.
Sells & Gray Circus notes. Our business in Kentucky and Tennessee has been good, and we have had plenty of rain. Twelve fine horses were received last week, and on July 3 we receive an elephant and two camels and a new flat car. Homer and Leslie, and St. George and Wilton, acrobats and clowns, joined June 26. Frank Leslie is doing his rube speciality in the parade.
Notes from Goodrich's Mammoth Shows. Our first season as a railroad show is proving highly successful. We are now in New Jersey, and our business is only limited by the capacity of the canvas. Very few changes have been made since the opening at Weston, W. Va. Art L. Selby, Mrs. C. A. Clymer and Edna Clymer have closed their repertory and have joined for the season, making their sixth season with the show. Mr. Selby is doing the contracting, Mrs. Clymer has the privileges and Miss Edna is featured in the concert. Mr. Selby has about finished his new electrical novelty, and, with the assistance of Miss Clymer, will produce this coming season, "Jeane De Arc." It will be something entirely new in electric and calcium effects. Master Clifton Goodrich, who was badly scalded recently, is slowly recovering. The executive staff of the company is as follows: Jas. W. Goodrich, manager; Art L. Selby, railroad contractor; Harry W. Cole, local contractor and press representative; John Hoffman, musical director; Geo. Rexford, amusement director; Mrs. C. A. Clymer, privileges, and Miss Edna W. Clymer, treasurer.
The Lewis Trio, acrobats and jumpers, will join the Robinson Circus, after playing a season of parks.
Notes from the Stewart Family Big 10 and 20 Cent Shows. We opened at Fort Wayne, Ind., April 30, to the capacity of our tents; then made four weeks in Ohio, in mud and heavy rain. Then we went back into Indiana to work the oil country, where we turned people away quite a number of times. Now we are back in Ohio again and playing to good business. We are expecting our new 60x90ft. tent in a few days, and a new set of bunting flags for the side and quarter poles. We have added two more horses and another wagon. There are twenty-two people with the show, twelve horses and five wagons. Mrs. Cap. Stewart will join the show at Chicasaw, June 30, to take charge of the ticket wagon and fix the envelopes Sunday mornings. . . .
Robt. J. Mercer closed his engagement with Cullins Bros.' Circus, as contracting agent, June 23, at Broken Bow, Neb.
New York Clipper, July 14, 1900, p. 433. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Whitney's Big One Ring Shows. We are in our tenth week out and still doing banner business. At ___ and Union City, Mich., the seats were all taken at 7:30, and at 8:15, when the show opened, performrs had to force their way from the dressing rooms to the ring, so dense was the crowd. The band gave up their stand, and our elevated stage and ring band was packed. We are carrying the best show we have had for years, and nver fail to please. Our concert band makes a daily hit with their street concerts. We hae just added a new feature, the Irvings (Geo. and Esther) to do their sensational flying return and double traps. Everybody is happy and the man in white and the old reliable perambulates every week.
Chas. W. McClintock is at his home in McKeesport, Pa., having closed as contracting agent with Tuttle's Olympic Show.
John Jenkins, Harry Oberfelt and Mons. Colby have closed with Tuttle's Olympic Show.
Chas. Hammond, who has been connected with the Forepaugh-Sells Bros. Circus the last five seasons, and was doing the lithographing checking up the last two seasons, resigned his position at Rock Island, Ill., and has gone to his home, Cambridge, O., to look after his bill posting business, in that city. John Harper, on car No. 2, took Mr. Hammond's place and is now doing the work.
Roster of car No. 1 of the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Shows. ___, manager; Tom Connors, in charge of paper; Harry Johnson, D. E. Morgan, J. Downey, lithographers; ___ and B. Fallon, lithographer boards; Matt Smith, programmer; Geo. Lawson, P. Connors, Geo. Tinkham, ___, C. Hyre, J. Miller, __ Seymour, W. Perreault, John Sharp, L. C. Mason, C. Holmes, bill posters, and Peter Hurst, in charge of paste room.
Frank Zelmo is in the Southwest, making parachute jumps.
Notes from Gollmar Bros.' Show. Business is fine and the show gives great satisfaction. Wertz and Adair, acrobats, and Mlle. Adair, juggler and wire walker, joined June 23. We have two acts going all through the performance.
New York Clipper, July 21, 1900, p. 465. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The B. B. & H. Circus, Dog and Pony Show is being well received along the line. At Plymouth, Wis., we packed the tent and had much trouble in keeping the crowd out of the ring. John Zimmer had hs nose partially bitten off by a dog purchased for training purposes. The dog was shot, and Mr. Zimmer is at St. Vincent's Hospital, Green Bay, Wis. Our band, with their fine repertory of music and novel uniforms, receive much praise along the line of parade. New uniforms of white duck and gold braid for the evening serenade in front of the tent will be received in a few days. We are now carrying seventy-eight people, twelve wagons and thirty head of horses. The ghost makes his appearance every Saturday, after the evening performance. The members, with the exception of Mr.Zimmer, whom we miss much, are all well contended and are looking forward to a long and prosperous season.
Notes from Hall, Long & Eldon's Consolidated Shows. Our business through Southern Michigan has been phenomenal, and so far we have not missed a performance through rain or storm. . . .
Ferari's Anglo-American Trained Wild Animal Show opened at Corning, N.Y., Street Fair, week of June 4, to good business. It has a $10,000 electric illuminated front entrance and eight cages of wild animals, eighteen lions, six lady and gentlemen trainers, and travel on our own special railroad cars. Roster: Jos. Ferari, general manager and director; T. J. Hurd, assistant lecturer and announcer; Capt. Grant's talking horse, Joe ___, lion trainer, with his two lions, Brutus and Spitfire, in the sensational act, "The Lion Hunt, Chase and Capture"; Madame Louise, five pyramid lions; Mlle. Almetia, reptiel queen; Baby Boots, snake enchantress; Col. Woods, animal trainer; Chas. ___, head canvas man; Chas. Gordon, charge of animals; Walter Tenny, hostler; Peter ___, with his performing bear, Big Frank; Happy Hi Hubbard, the human megaphone, town crier, ticket seller and treasurer.
Brown's Grand Sensation and Indoor Circus notes. C. C. Brown, proprietor; A. P. Le Craft, business manager; Fred T. Humes, managers; Burton and De Almo, musical sketch; ___ Bros., horizontal bars, May Francis, song and dance; Rose Lewis, trapeze, La Clede and Raymond, "On the Links"; Prof. May's Dog Circus; Humes and Clayton, acrobats, and Mr. Humes does principal clown. We have our new band and parade wagons all finished. We play indoors, and give an opera house circus. Our band is under the leadership of Prof. Mangold, with twelve pieces.
Notes from Geo. W. Hall's Circus and Menagerie. We close our season on Aug. 1, to commence our Fall season of street fairs and carnivals. Our season so far has been financially a success, the S. R. O. sign being displayed four nights out of a week all through the lumber country in Wisconsin. . . .
Notes from the Ely's Combined Circus and Museum. We are touring the central and northern parts of Illinois, and playing to packed houses nightly. On our last Thursday stand at Shirley, July 11, the team on the lion cage got frightened and ran away, upsetting the cage on a steep embankment. The ___ lions got away. Two were soon recaptured, but one remained at large for over five hours. After doing considerable damage and creating much excitement our manager, G. S. Ely, lassoed it. The cage was soon repaired and traffic resumed.
John H. Sparks, proprietor of the Sparks Show, was at his home, East Brady, last week, on business connected with the show. Mr. Sparks will lay off at his home for a rest, the first time in many years. Chas. Sparks will look after the show.
New York Clipper, July 28, 1900, pp. 476, 478. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Mitchell Big Pavilion Show. Success unprecedented still crowns the efforts of the Mitchell Show to please the public. The glorious Fourth of July was passed at Fairview, West Va., where the lot was shared with the civic Order of Maccabees, who had a _ft. round top pitched within a few feet of our fine spread of canvas, the entire combined showing presenting an appearance that would cause one to think it was the outfit of one of the "big shows." Thousands of people were in town, and of course we turned 'em away. The attractions presented by the Order of Maccabees and our show worked in such good harmony that, upon the night of the fifth, our closing night, the Maccabees attended in a body, and a special program was arranged for the occasion. Business continues at high water mar, and speaking of high water brings to mind an incident that came very near proving a serious thing in a recent trip from Piney Fork to Pine Grove. The heavy rain of the two days before had swollen the streams to the danger point, and we were warned not to attempt to ford the river. Still, being anxious to make the next stand, we pushed on. At a ford where two creeks meet was encountered the most danger. All got over without accident until the arrival of the carriage containing Chic Kehoe, Ida Rainer and Will Birmingham. They had nearly crossed when they struck a "quicksand" hole, and the team began to sink. In an instant the water was over the seats of the carriage and the people in water knee deep. By much persuasion from the driver the team made an extra efford, and, though being carried down stream, managed to effect a landing, with no damage done outside of that caused by the performers clothing getting wet. Still the experience and narrow escape is one they do not care to repeat. Everyone with the show is well, and all have commenced banking the "long green," which comes regularly, and they are all trying to decide whether to invest in oil wells, farms or mining stock. . . .
Tony Richardson writes from the Rhoda Royal Shows as follows: "Business on the season has been a winner, and many times the canvas has been taxed to its capacity. At Hastings, Pa., last week, our tableaux wagon and the snake den were ditched, owing to a defective frog switch, which caused the downfall of those wagons. The railroad ordered them sent to Altoona shops for repairs. Kennedy and Williams joined for concert work last week. Mike Welch of Welch Bros.' Circus, was our guest Saturday. I was called home from Ebensburg, Pa., by the sudden death of my father at Ashtabula, O. Mrs. Bertis and Isabel joined us July 4."
Louis' Crescent Show. We are still in the land of the living. We did not make a "barrel" of money at the beginning, but considered ourselves fortunate to keep our heads above water and the disappointment in the band we had engaged. We are striving to leave a good impression with the public.
Ely's Combined Shows. We opened our season April _, making eleven weeks of continued success, with only one blow down, at Elkhart, Ill., when two canvas men were badly hurt. We carry in all twenty-seven, with a band of fourteen pieces, under the direction of Walter Scott. New additions: Walter Scott, Mrs. Bessie Scott, Wm. Mitchell and John Sauer. The Old Reliable reaches us every Sunday, and the man in white every Monday.
Roster of the Lemen Bros. Circus advertising car No. 1 is as follows: Chas. Ellis, manager and press agent; Chas. ___, charge of paper; Ed. Hyre, lithographer; C. Hoyt, W. R. Davis, W. Ross, C. Yelvington . . . and W. E. Brown, billposters. The show is doing a splendid business in Canada and consequently everything is "all serene."
Whitney Show notes. We are playing to good business, notwithstanding the bad rains we have had since July 3. The Irvings, aerialists, visited the show at Constantine, Mich. Our band is a drawing card with the show.
Notes from Merchant's American Railroad Shows (W. Black, manager). We are now in our twelfth week and business has been great. Our week's engagement at Point Gratiot, Dunkirk, was the best we have had; people wer turned away at every performance. A few changes have been made and the show is greatly strengthened. The advance is now in charge of Chas. Thomas, with two assistants, and judging by the crowds who are waiting at the depots to see the show pull in, he must be telling them how it happened. Gus ___ now has charge of the band. Fred, the educated horse, still continues to please everyone. We close our season about the middle of September, in order to start rehearsals for Mr. Black's big repertory company, which opens Oct. _, the feature of which will be a genuine Inidan band of fifteen pieces. Chas. Thomas, who has charge of the routing, has eighteen weeks booked in cities we have played this summer. The printing is all special. We will carry a carload of special scenery and travel in our own car.
Edna Snow informs us that her mother, Annie Carroll, whose whereabouts she seeks, was mentioned in the will of the late Mary N. Carroll, widow of Barney Carroll, who died May __, at her home in Westchester, N.Y., and was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery.
Dave Castello (Laughlin), equestrian, now in business in Henderson, N.C., was in town July __. He was called home Tuesday by the sudden illness of two of his children.
Notes from Capt. W. D. Ament's Big City Show. We have just concluded a thirty days' trip through Wisconsin, and everyone in the company is pleased to think we are out of it and back in Illinois once more. The trip was accompanied by cyclones, blow downs, runaways and accidents nearly every day. The State is suffering from a long drought, and business was the worst we ever experienced. Capt. Ament saw it was useless to continue further in the state, and expect to make money, so the agent was called back on short notice, and the stands ahead cancelled, and the show made a 250 mile jump into Illinois. At our first stand in this state we turned people away by hundreds after every inch of seating and standing room was taken. Our little show this season is the strongest it has ever been. Prof. Gilliam, who joined the show a few weeks ago, introduced two new pony acts July 18. The ponies were quite a surprise, and made a very favorable impression. Our new Pullman palace car arrived two weeks ago, and it is a thing of beauty. Capt. Ament made a flying trip home a few weeks ago to close the deal for his new opera house in Muscatine, which will be ready to open about Dec. 1. He is having winter quarters built in connection for the circus, and a beautiful suite of rooms to live in. We are now headed South, and will probably not close before Christmas. We laid over in Chicago Sunday, and everybody had a chance to see the city. We received a pleasant visit from J. H. La Pearl while playing Oshkosh, Wis. Everyone is well, and we look for a long and prosperous season.
Wm. De Mott, equestrian, sailed for Hamburg, Ger., July 21.
Chas. O'Brien, boss canvas man with Welsh Bros.' Show, will hereafter work as Prof. Carl Bryan, with Miss Medley, aeronaut.
Philip W. Rand, for six years a member of the California Trio Co., died June 20, in San Francisco, Cal., from consumption. Mr. Rand was born in Holyoke, Mass., thirty years ago. His first appearance in the show business was with the Adam Forepaugh Show. The next season he was with the Barnes Co. Show, and then he joined Sells Bros.' His last engagement was with "The Black Crook" Co., which was under the management of Strong & Welty. His wife, mother and a brother, Jack Rand, of Rand and Byron, survive him. The funeral took place June 23, and it was attended by many members of the profession in San Francisco. The floral tributes were numerous.
New York Clipper, August 11, 1900, pp. 525, 527. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Great Rhoda Royal Show notes. We have been out thirteen weeks trhough Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Long Island. . . . "a big little show," with eighty-five head of horses and ponies (the finest stock on the road). One hundred and twenty-six people are fed daily at the "Hotel De Royal." Rhoda Royal and Joe Berris, bosses and managers; J. V. Strebig, general contracting agent; John Henry Rice, local contracting agent; Dan McKenzie, in charge of No. 1 car; Warrne Hines, programmer; W. W. Poweres, treasurer; Tony Richardson, press agent; W. J. Doris, manager of privileges; Henry Hobbles (Dutch Henry), boss canvas man; James Clows, boss hostler; W. St. Auburn, steward; Harry Anderson, assistant superintendent; L. J. Chamberlain, band master; Bud Horn, calliope player; Arthur Spencer, boss animal man; Harry Howard, side show oragot; John Keenan, outside ticket man; the Six Eddys, Petitt Family, Madam and Rhoda Royal, Serpento, Four Ashes, Thompson Boys and Joe Berris, in his sixty-three horse act. The concert, with Randall and Crandall, Ashes and Eddys, produce a pleasing entertainment. Side show: ___ and Olga, Capt. De Coursey, Fatima, ___, Pap and O'Ney, make up a list that entertains when Bill Doris "snakes" the people. John Kersell, Mr. Collier and several professionals paid us a visit at Huntington. The "Governer" is expected home the middle of August. Prof. St. John, in high wire, sets the people wild.
Notes from the Gus Sun Railroad Shows. We closed our circus season July 21, and are now in Milton, Pa., putting on the finishing touches to the big minstrel show. Our circus season only extended over a period of eight weeks, but the business was the largest ever done by a two car show. Seldom a night passed that we did not turn away from two to five hundred people, and even in the rain our top was always full. Our genial agent, Fred D. Fowler, and his corps of advance people covered everything in sight. The contracting done by Mr. Fowler was gilt edged. Next year, during the summer months, Mr. Sun will put out a five car circus, with a 90ft. round top and two 40ft. middle pieces. We will carry about seventy-five people, making the show the strongest twenty-five cent circus ever seen in America.
George W. McNutt, chief of detectives of Des Moines, Ia., for the past ten years, has taken charge of the detective department with the Great Wallace Shows.
C. A. Hibbard, swinging wire performer and novelty tramp juggler, is now in his eleventh week and is still meeting with success, with Reno's Great Allied Shows. He has introduced several new tricks in tramp juggling.
Roster of advance car No. 1 of the Great Wallace Shows. W. Musgat, manager; F. O. Rossman, in charge of paper; James Kelly, chief lithographer; Edgar Price and Harry Croll, assistants; ___ bill posters, Tim Hagerty . . . Gilsey Abrams, W. E. Clark, Jeff Caspers, Thomas Foster, H. White, Eugene Bateman, Homer Ingersoll, Chas. Stephenson, Ralph Case, Fatty Eberhardt, ___ and Walter Brown, paste maker and porter. Thos. Foster met with a very serious accident in Aurora, Ill., June 28. While doing the top deck of a platform decker he made a misstep and fell to the ground, twelve feet below, and broke both arms. Mr. Franklin was notified, and at once took charge of him, sending him to his home in Piketon, O., where he is with his wife and mother, getting along very ___, and expecting to join the show again about the middle of August.
Notes from Reno's Oriental Shows and Trained Animal Exhibition. We are now in our fourteenth week of uninterrupted sucess. We are gradually working eastward. The season so far has been a grand success, not an accident or blow down. We carry forty head of stock, eighteen wagons and forty people all told. Our roster in the dressing room embraces: the Marvelous Gliddens, the Three Martinete, Clarence Hibbard, Chas. Arnold, Dennis Dolan, Kelman and Fraser, Little Emily, Prof. Reno, Arthur Humeston, Auline ___, and La Basco and Searles.
Wm. Bennett (W. E. Julian), tumbler and acrobat, was crushed to death July 2d, at Aberdeen, S. Dak., by a circus train belonging to the Campbell Bros., of which show he was a member. He had been in the profession for several years. His wife, three adopted children (also professionals), two brothers and three sisters survive him. The remains were taken charge of by the Knights of Pythias, of Aberdeen, and sent to his home in Havana, Ill., where the interment occurred 30.
New York Clipper, August 18, 1900, p. 546. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Victoria, B. C., sent out this press dispatch Aug. 5: "According to advices brought by steamer Argyll, while the siege of Tientsin was in progress the American aggregation known as Warren's Circus was playing and drawing big crowds. The circus was at Taka when the first Russian contingent went up to Tientsin and the march was made easy for the Cossack soldiers, who piled into the band wagon and on top of the animal wagons and tableau. With the artillery and wagons of the Russians and the circus paraphernalia, the parade is described in the Eastern press as one of the most unique ever seen. The aggregation arrived at Tientsin early in June and on 14 the big tent was put up and the show began. Two days later, according to ___, a refugee who has reached Shanghai from Tientsin, the manager, Mr. Plueffer, was shot and killed. He was struck by a stray missile."
From Asa Barker's Big 10 and 20c Show: This is our tenth week and business has been good. We have had fine weather and no bad luck except at Triumph, Ill., where a heavy wind storm struck us, ripping the big top and carrying the cook tent across the lot. At the time the large tent was filled to its capacity. The show had just reached the finale when the storm came. The show is moving along smoothly, and every one is well. Albert Fischer, baritone and violinist, who recently graduated at the Notre Dame Conservatory of Music, has joined us, and has taken charge of the band and orchestra. We are still on our old favorite route.
Justice ___ gave judgement in favorite of the Lavernes, aerialists, for the some of $190 and costs against Nettie Black, proprietress of the Merchants American Railroad Show, at Greenville, Pa., Aug. _.
Leo Blondin was compelled to close with the Walter J. McDonald Shows on account of sickness.
Arthur Borelly [sic?] has signed with Sells & Gray as singing and talking clown.
New York Clipper, September 1, 1900, p. 589. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
J. J. Jay, for several years associated with the Sells Bros. Circus, committed suicide Aug. 4, by shooting himself in the right temple. He was for three seasons general agent of ___, Burke & Randall's Shows. His last engagement was with Field's & Hanson's Minstrels, as agent. He leaves a widow and one son, who live at Marion, O.
New York Clipper, September 8, 1900, p. 611. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Robinson echos. On Sunday lasat, at Wichita, Kan., the Elks Lodge gave us an open door session and banquet. John G. Robinson and his attaches, who are Elks, together with a number of others, were guests, and were royally entertained. As a return compliment Mr. Robinson invited the lodge to see our performance on Monday evening. They attended some one hundred strong, and formed a part of a turn away house. The business at both performances was enormous - standing room at a premium. Our business up to this, the seventeeth week, has been excellent, Kansas turning splendidly for us.
The Musical Brennans write: "We are this season with Bonheur Bros.' New Golden Allied Shows, doing our musical act and other specialties. . . .
Notes from the Geo. W. Ely Show. We are now playing in the northwestern part of the state of Illinois, and the weather has been fine. The result was packed houses for us every night. We will start South in a few days, and will ship from St. Louis Oct. 20 for Louisiana. The show is said by everyone to be the best and most complete wagon show on the road. Our military band of fourteen pieces is setting the natives wild, and is a feature of any show. Our leader, Prof. Adolph Shank, is highly praised for his excellent work. Our street parade is something to be proud of, as it is entirely original and novel. M. F. Ezzell, our hustling agent, is doding good work in front, with four assistants; this making Ezzell's third season with us. Mrs. Ely was agreeably surprised a few days ago by having her brother pay her a visit, as neither had seen the other for over sixteen years.
Hall, Long & Eldon's Consolidated Shows closed the season at Eaton, Ind., Aug. 18. The show will next season be known as Hall & Long's Consolidated Shows, and will be greatly enlarged, with a brand new outfit. Harris Eldon will again manage his repertory company during the winter season, and next summer will take out a dog and pony show under canvas. The Four Salvinis, English acrobats, play engagements over the Burt circuit. Harry Helms will be under the management of A. A. Jack, with his magic entertainment. Rawls, the contortionist, will rest at home before filling eastern dates. . . . Ernest Frost joins Haverly's Minstrels. Myron Frost joined Wm. Wests' Minstrels. The Fillmores will play dates. . . . Frank Long is well remembered by many of his friends in the profession, of the team of Long and Edwards, trapeze act. He will take out a hall show for the winter season. Most all of our people have been re-engaged for next season. Taking it all in all our season's business has been uniformly good.
Mitchell's Big Pavilion Show notes. We closed a season of seventeen weeks Aug. 23, at Clarksburg, W. Va. The season was the most successful the show has ever known, and it will go out next year enlarged to double the present size and with equipment entirely new in every department. Business was big everywhere. It was a rainy season, there being more rainy days than pleasant ones. The big top was blown down twice, but no one was injured. The only other accidents that occurred during the season were the narrow escape from drowning of some of the people while fording a river. A matinee performance was given at Spencer, W. Va., where one hundred and fifty of the inmates of the Spencer Insane Asylum were present in charge of attendants. The show went into winter quarters at Clarksburg. The destination of performers so far as known is as follows: . . . Will Birmingham to London; Ray Phillips, to Chicago; the Lowther Family to Bridgeport; Charlie Green, to New Orleans; the band, to St. Louis, and other to various variety houses. There was one wedding during the season, that of proprietor H. E. Mitchell to Lillie Lowther, leader of orchestra.
Notes from Reno's Oriental Shows. We are now about through with Iowa, and will commence our tour to Illinois Monday, Aug. 28. Our business through southeastern Iowa has been phenomenal. It is a well settled country and the people attend entertainments in crowds. Our tent has been too small to accommodate our audiences on several occasions recently. Our roster: Clarence Hibbard, Chas. Arnold, Kelman and Fraser, Dennis Dolan, Arthur Humeston, Little Emily and Auline, ___, Johnsons and Stokes, Edward Reno, ___ and Billy Glass. Our band is a big success everywhere and keeps every town guessing. Our stock is in excellent condition. We have received some very flattering offers to winter through this section.
Ocean spray from Sig. Sautelle's New Big Shows. The banner of big business continues to proudly wave over these shows, which have yet to make their first losing stand. Expecially profitable have been the summer resort dates, each having proved a veritable mine of weather. Best of all, the shows are establishing an enviable reputation at every stop in the new territory, and a warmly cordial welcome awaits them whenever they revisit this section. Not content with owning "the largest and best equipped circus," Mr. Sautelle is constantly adding to the attractiveness of his show property. His latest purchases have been two well matched pairs of high bred bays and a new phaeton. The latter was built expressly for the personal use of Mr. and Mrs. Sautelle, and is all that time, money and mechanical skill could make it. Several new performers, musicians and concert people have joined preparatory to our long season South. Leon W. Washburn, by whe Mr. Sautelle was once employed as manager of the Washburn side shows, was a guest Thursday, at Atlantic Highlands, of his former employee. . . .
The Great Rhoda Royal Shows. Rhoda Royal and Joseph Berris, lessees and managers; I. V. Strebig, general agent and railway contractor; W. W. Power, treasurer, and charge of ticket wagon; Harry Anderson, contracting agent . . . S. Westhall, programme advertisement solicitor; W. J. Doris, manager of privileges; Jos. Berris, charge of big door; ___, Jess Robinson, front doormen; Mrs. R. Royal, reserved seats . . . Harry Howard, ___, side show orators . . . Fred Mayfield, boss candy stand butcher, with ten assistants . . . L. L. St. John, steward of Hotel Rhoda Royal . . . Geo. Jackson, head waiter, with fourteen assistants . . . Frank Burns, charge of ponies . . . Geo. Spriggs, elephant man . . . Geo. Williams, assistant canvas man, with twenty-five assistants; Geo. Hartman, boss side show, with ten assistants; Frank Grimes, boss chandelier man, with two assistants; Mrs. C. Roberts, wardrobe lady; Tommy Jones, boss wardrobe man; W. J. King, boss property man, with ten assistanat. Performers in big show: Prof. Berris, equestrian director; Madame and Rhoda Royal, double fashionable menage act; Prof. Berris, sixty-three horse act . . . Albert and Ray thompson, burlesque riding mules; the Four Comical Ashes, grotesque acrobats; Bumps, riding pony; Serpenta, sensational contortionist . . . Eddy Family, acrobats; Alf. Thompson's singign donkey, Snowball; Mlle. Petit, bounding wire; Prof. Berris, school of trained ponies, ten in number; Madam Royal, tandem cake-walking Arabian thoroughbreds; Prof. Showers, clown band; the Four Alberts, breakaway ladders; Felix Sisters, flying traps . . . Hippodrome: lady riders - Marie Marston, Flora Mayhue, Birdie Franklin; jockeys and Roman riders - C. St. John, Oscar Fisher, ___, Wm. Harebeck, Jas. Herbert, ___; Capt. W. C. Sharp, with his detachment of Roosevelt Rough Riders, Capt. W. C. Sharp, Lieut. Harrington, Sergt. D. W. Winslow, Corporal F. Vetter; troopers: Wm. White, Leon Seaman, L. C. Leith, ___, Joseph Marshall, E. Dempsey . . . John R. Adams, Billy Elliott. Side show and concert people: Spaff Hyman, magic; Fatima, mind reader; Helena, snake enchantress; La Belle Latina, Oriental dancing girl; Prof. John King, fire king; Capt. De Coursey, tattooed man; Mlle. Alvena, trained cockatoos; Christin, fortune teller; Randall and Crandall, sketch team; McPherson and McPherson, sketch team . . . Music: Prof. Chamberlain's big show band, sixteen in number . . . calipoe, Bud Horn. The first season of the Great Rhoda Royal Shows opened in Geneva, O., April 28, and up to the present writing has enjoyed a most prosperous season. Although a new show, both in name, stock and paraphernalia, it has been most enthusiastically received, and the press and public have been unanimous in pronouncing it own of the best shows on the road. We are now enjoying the New England States, where the name Rhoda Royal is now a household word, and where business is at the top notch. Both in Northhampton and Holyoke, last week, hundreds were unable to gain admittance, and the ticket wagon was ordered closed at 8 o'clock . . .
New York Clipper, September 22, 1900, p. 663. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Jas. W. Goodrich Mammoth Wagon Shows. After laying off at the winter quarter for two weeks, reorganizing, we opened Aug. 19, at Seymour, Ct. Roster: Jas. W. Goodrich, proprietor and manager; Alf Southey, treasurer; G. Hoffman, secretary; Jack Russell, equestrian director; Joe Horner, charge of concert; Tomm Jerome, reserved seats; J. J. Jerome, ring master . . . Performers: Two Brothers Jerome, acrobats and perch; Wilson and ___, triple bars; Joe Horner, principal talking and singing clown; John Russell, trained giraffe; Mons. Merrill, contortionist and rings; Paul Merrill, single trapes . . . Jas. W. Goodrich, manege horse Dan and talking pony ___; Horner, Russell and Merrill, clowns.
Mrs. Alex A. Lowande writes from her house in this city: "A fire took place in our apartments while my husband is in the hospital, and half of our things were lost, including all of our clothing."
New York Clipper, October 6, 1900, pp. 703, 717. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Frank Marlo, the well known bar performer, died Feb. 12, in the Campbell Hospital, Calcutta, India, from smallpox. The deceased, who was about thirty-two years of age, was born in the United States, and as a young man became an expert on the horizontal bar. He first came into prominence as a member of the team of Marlo and Dunham, who first appeared in this city [New York] season of 1893-94, at Koster & Bial's Music Hall. Their success was immediate and they soon became the leading team in their line in America. They played in the leading vaudeville houses throughout the country and also appeared abroad with like success. In 1896(?), the team separated, Mr. Marlo going abroad with Harry Van Auken as a partner. Later Marlo and Dunham were renuited, and with a third partner formed the Marlo-Dunham Trio, doing an aerial bar act. They again separated, and with another partner Mr. Marlo formed the team of Marlo and Marlo. Hen then took out a troupe, known as Marlo's Circus, playing South Africa, India and the Orient. About a year ago, with Richard ___, Mr. Marlo organized the American Globe Trotters, with the intention of touring the world. They went to South Africa, where they met with great success until the outbreak of the ___-Boer trouble, when they left for India. At one time Mr. Marlo was considered one of the most proficient and graceful bar performers before the public, in the Spring of ___, he married Virginia Aragon, a noted high wire performer. New York Clipper, March 24, 1900, p. 87. Comanche Charlie (Charles Brunning), a cowboy, died March 12 [1900], at Chicago, Ill. The deceased, who was about thirty-eight years of age, was born in Canada, but came to the United States as a young man, and settling in the West, became a cowboy. He was at various times with the Buffalo Bill Show, the Barnum & Bailey Circus and the Old John Robinson Circus. Last summer he had his own show on the road, which was known as Comanche Charlie's Hippodrome and Horse Fair Exhibit, playing parks and fairs. The remains were placed in a receiving vault, awaiting orders from his relatives. New York Clipper, March 24, 1900, p. 87.
New York Clipper, March 31, 1900, p. 99. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The following engagements have been made for the Great William Sells Shows, united with James H. Gray's New Olympian Hippodrome: The wonderful Janeau aerial marvel . . . Warren A. Patrick as treasurer. Everything is all bustle at winter quarters. Our special new paper is fast approaching completion, and will be new and of elegant design. The show will have accommodations for eating and sleeping equal to any on the road this season. There will be a fine Pullman sleeping car, two berths high, elegantly furnished and ___ fresh from the Pullman car shops at Chicago, Ill. This car will be for the performers. The laboring men will also have first class accommodations, having one sleeping car to themselves, all furnished complete, and equal to any circus on the road. There will be a dining car finely fit up for all the performers. There will also be a dining tent on the circus grounds for the laboring people, which will be very convenient.
The Zamora Family sailed March 17 for Germany to join Barnum & Bailey's Show. Little Evelyn Zamora was entertained by her friends during her saty in New York.
Oscar Brewer has signed with the Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows for the coming season, making his second season with the show. He will do principal clowning and introduce his pickaninny cake walkers and a burlesque giraffe act.
Van Amburg & Gallagher Notes. One of the finest equipped shows season of 1900 will be the Van Amburg & Gallagher Combined Shows, the outfit will be completely new, and is now well under way and will be completed by April 15. The outfit is being built at Buffalo, N.Y., and consists as follows: big top 120ft. with two 40ft centres; menagerie 80ft., with one 30ft. centre; ___ dressing room, three ___ horse tents, ___ cook house, and ___ kid shows. The printing will all be new and very elaborate.
Notes from the Rice & Davis Big United Shows. We are getting everything in readiness for the coming tenting season. Have just received a large shipment of show property from Peru, Ind. We expect a lot of new horses in a few days. The Rice & Davis Shows will be one of the best equipped 15 and 25c shows on the road this coming season. Chas. and Katie Boynton have signed to do their sensational aerial act.
Oscar C. Smith has signed with Harkness & Fox's ___ Circus again this season to do his rope and wire walking clown and Mexican ladder, making his fourth season with that show.
Notes from winter quarters of A. H. Reed's Circus. Frank Dempsey, our boss canvas man, has arrived and is busy getting things in shape for the opening. . . .
W. H. Harris, Chicago, Ill., has purchased from Carl Hagenbeck, through his American representative, Dr. E. D. Colvin, eight double hump Siberian working camels.
W. T. Boyer, formerly manager of the People's Theatre, St. Mary's, O., is no longer connected with the theatre, but has taken his old position with advertising car No. _, Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus.
The Australian Wonders, the five St. Leons and trained monk, Jocko, will make their first appearance in America beneath a canvas with W. H. Harris' Nickle Plate Shows, in Chicago, April 21.
Ernest De Pew, formerly of the Walter L. Main Shows, has signed with the Ringling Bros. Greatest Shows on Earth for the coming season as ticket seller.
Carlo Bros., of old time circus fame, are here to book attractions for their circus in Brazil, to open in May.
Notes from A. W. McCormick's New Silver Plate Show. We are making preparations for the fifth annual opening of the white tent season, over-hauling harness, painting wagons, and will have an entire new canvas throughout this year. We have purchased six small cross cages for menagerie. Will have the same elephant and camel with us that we had two years ago. A. W. McCormick is now sole owner of this "prize box." Our ten trained white ponies and three stallions have been carefully trained all winter by Prof. McCoy, of Toronto, Can., and are second to nine in the show business. Al. Gaston, talking and singing clown, has signed for this season. He is to take charge of dressing room. We have mostly booked, with few exceptions, the same people we had last year, and shall return to our wagons for 1900. It is more profitable, and we do not encounter so much opposition. We are contemplating going South through Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Missouri for the early winter season, catching the different crops when the folk have ready money, returning about Christmas to headquarters, Gallipolis, O., by steamboat.
Dalton and Franklin are engaged for the coming season with the John Robinson Show for the concert.
. . . and Wm. De Varlo go with the Walter J. McDonald's Colossal Shows for the season with troupe of trained dogs and ponies and leaping greyhounds, Little Inize doing a pony manage and a two pony hurdle act. De Varlo is doing his jockey and Pete Jenkins act.
The John Robinson Circus lost twelve of nineteen camels by death on shipboard while en route to this port from Calcutta, India. The ship ___ safely landed seven camels and a dwarf cow on March 22.
New York Clipper, April 7, 1900, p. 134. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Wintermute Bros.' Show Notes. Every preparation is being made at the winter quarters at Hebron, Wis., for the opening on May _. Frank Zweiger has finished painting and decorating the wagons, cages, etc. The Wintermute Bros. pin their faith to the national colors, red, white and blue, and those are the ones predominating with the New Gigantic. Thos. Wintermute has spent the winter breaking new dogs and ponies, etc. A military drill by ponies and complete dog and pony show will be strongly featured on the billing matter. The show will use a 100ft. roung top, ___ side show, with ten paintings, five cages, fifty horses and ponies. Halsey Wintermute will have charge of the advance, with two bill wagons and three assistants. Performers so far engaged: John Schneider, Wm. Weir, Arthur Near, Herman Vonquett, W. E. Lock, Ernest Coleman and a band of eight pieces. W. A. Atterbury has the privileges.
Notes from Rehn's United Shows. Our winter quarters at Danville, Kan., is now a scene of activity. Everything is being overhauled and put in readiness for the coming season. Workmen, eight in number, have charge of the different departments, and are vieing with each other to make things look more elaborate. The show promises to be one of the brightest and neatest wagon shows on the road, and manager G. W. Rehn, is sparing neither pains nor expense to bring about this result. We will open at Danville, April __, with an __ft. round top, with a 30ft. middle piece; side show __ft., with 30ft. middle piece; a new horse tent __ft., and a __ black tent for the "passion Play" in moving pictures, under the management of Sig. Harris. Our stock is in good condition, having had comfortable winter quarters and the best of care. Sixteen handsomely painted wagons will be used to transport the show, which will carry about sixty people. We are anxiously looking forward to the opening date.
Dan Rice's will was probated in Long Branch, N.J., March __. It was made in June last and was witnessed by Judge C. ___ Patterson and Lewis Slocum. The will directs that all of his personal and real estate, including the revenue from his unpublished book of his life, shall go to John H. Brown and his sister, Miss Elizabeth Brown, with whom he lived. They also are made the executors. The only conditions the ___ imposes is that they are to pay $1,000 annually to his surviving daughter, Mrs. Catherine ___, of this city, as long as she shall live. The famous circus man expected to reap a harvest from the sale of his book, which is now in the hands of the publishers. It will contain upward of seven hundred pages. It is to be illustrated, and will contain interviews with Presidents Grant, Lincoln and Johnson, in addition to many of his circus ring jokes. He left, it is declared about ten thousand acres of land in Tennessee and Texas. The land in Tennessee is said to contain coal and iron ore.
Ed. F. Davis' Show notes. The latest additions are: the La Rue Bros., Bernard Orton, Eydon and Nelson and the Welcomes. Sam MacFlinn is on the ground, and the many animal acts are being daily rehearsed.
Del Fuego has signed for the coming season with the Ringling Bros.' World's Greatest Shows as clown.
Peter W. Barlow denies a recent statement, sent to the Clipper, that he is in Cuba with a small native circus. He writes: "Whoever sent you the information sent you an untruth, as is surely no friend of mine. On the tenth day of last January I sold my hotel in Santiago de Cuba, known as the Colonial. I also sold a third interest in the Rapid Transit Bus Co., of that same city, and on Jan. 18 sailed to ___ with El Gran Circo Lowande, filling the position of bareback somersault and jocky rider, also equestrian director. I am still with El Gran Circo Lowande, Tony Lowande, sole proprietor and manager . . . Our show is the only circus making any money for the simple reason that the Cuban people are aware of the fact that Tony Lowande brings to them nothing but the very best. We close our season Aug. __, and reopen in Santiago de Cuba on or about Nov. __."
New York Clipper, April 14, 1900, p. 149. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Doings at the winter quarters of the famous B. B. & H. Circus, Dog and Pony Shows. We have leased the Fair Grounds at Antigo, Wis., where we have the show stored. We have a number of workmen overhauling and getting everything in first class shape. We are having a cage built for dogs and monkeys, and also a small ticket wagon. We will have two wagons in advance, well equipped, and loaded with paper suitable for this kind of a show. Our canvas has arrived. Prof. Burns is very busy training a number of Shetland ponies, which will be a feature. Our trick horse, "John A. Logan," is doing an act that will suprise the natives. The roster to date is as follows: Prof. Burns, manager . . . Fred Boldt, advance representative, with four assistants; J. Zimmer, in charge of privileges; Tom Scott, boss canvas man . . . Lew Williams, props; Chas. Carroll, director of band, which will be a feature; Rosena Carroll, drum major. We will have twelve musicians for the band. The performers are: Young Cyclone, J. W. Parker . . . Lewis and Lewis, with their troupe of performing dogs . . . Own Albert . . . Bernie McGraw and Zennette. We will use fourteen wagons, and carry thirty-four head of horses.
Notes from Foster & Wilkens' Great London 10 and 30 cent Shows. . . . another week will see everything in shape for one of the finest shows of ___ on the road this season. Our outfit will be new and complete in every detail. . . . The show will carry a band of fifteen musicians, which will be one of the features. Roster: . . . the Sampsons, Ed and ___; the Mannings, Dan and Ida; Bros. La PLants (or Adell Family); Prof. Claud May and his troupe of educated dogs; Mlle Loretta . . . Dave Pomroy . . .
Notes from the Rice & Davis Big United Shows. We are now making preparations for our opening, which will be at Brockwayville, Pa., April __. The show will be one of the best equipped little shows on the road this coming season. We will use thirty head of stock. Size of main tent __ft., with two 40ft. middle pieces; side show tent 40x70; horse tent ___, dresting tent ___, cook house ___. There will be sixty people with the show.
The Boyntons have signed with the Sig. Sautelle Show,and not with the Rice & Davis Shows. To do their new horizontal revolving ladder.
Leonard and Hart have signed for the coming tenting season with Sig. Sautelle's Show.
Prof. Shedman and Mlle ___ senational dogs, Chas. A. Sampson and ___ O'Brien left for Rio Janeiro, Brazil, April _, to join Carlo's Circus.
Tommy Barnett has signed with Rehn's United Shows for the season.
New York Clipper, April 21, 1900, p. 173. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Rays from Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows. Everybody engaged reported promptly, and the old performers could scarcely be convinced it was the same show they closed with last Fall, as everything is new from start to finish. The opening parade and performance took place in Raleigh, N.C., April _. The day was beautiful, and the business right up to the notch. The newspapers and citizen of Raleigh were profuse in their compliments on the gentlemanly behavior and progressiveness of the Sun Bros.' Shows while in the city, and many expressions of regret were heard when the shows pulled out. The first drive to Morrisville, N.C., was made without a hitch, and Sun Bros. can feel justly proud of their new layout for the season of 1900. The roster of the company is as follows: Sun Bros., proprietors; Geo. Sun, manager; O. R. Sun, treasurer; Pete Sun, advance representative . . . Louis E. Pepper, press agent; Wiley Terris, equestrian director; Prof. Chas. Coon, band leader; J. H. Rhodes, leader of orchestra; the Snyders (Jno., Edward and Harry), acrobats; Terris and Trevanion, breakaway ladder; Wiley Terris, dancing barrel; Wiley Terris Jr., baby clown; Richards Bros., statuary . . . Oscar Brewer, principal staging clown, with his troupe of pickaninnies and cake walkers; Arthur May, Fred Dexter, Fred Tryon, A. J. Ashton . . . M. V. Rector, Edward Kingsland, Prof. Gleiser and his troupe of performing dogs . . . In the annex are all the small animals . . . Percy Richards, boss property man, with six assistants; Chet Varley, chief cook in Hotel de Sun, with assistants; Harry McBride, chandelier man, and in charge of small animals; Otto Miller, night watchman. The advance staff is composed of Pete Sun, manager; Albert Moore, in charge of big wagon; Walter Epperson, in charge of No. 2 wagon . . . The show will work the tobacco section and then head directly East. Everthing points to a prosperous season for the Progressive Shows.
Notes from Dixon, Bowers & Dixon's Big Shows. Everything is in readiness for the opening of our big shows, which takes place May 1, with the following roster: Dixon, Bowers & Dixon, proprietors and managers . . . Prof. Fred. D. Fox, bandmaster, with twelve solo musicians; Prof. John White and troupe of educated horses, ponies, dogs and monkeys; the Imperial troupe of pantomimists; Annie Bart, balancing trapeze and high wire . . . Edward Clark, juggler; William Phelps and his riding dog and goat; clowns: John Lancaster, Robert Hodge and the Three McDonalds (Tom, Jim and Frank). . . . Maud Hayward, female cornet soloist, has been engaged as one of the special features of the concert, in additon to the following people: the Imperial Comedy Trio, Hodge, Hayward and Lancaster, Wilson and Allen, Carter and Green. We carry thirty-two head of horses, with Bob Stark, boss hostler, with ten assistants; Jack Backley, boss canvas man, with ten assistants. The show opens in Sydney, N.Y.
Welsh Brothers' Circus notes. We open in Lancaster, Pa., April __. This year this aggregation will be much larger and include many new features. Everything will be new, and an additional car will be added to the train, making four in all. Two weeks later a second combination will be launched, to be known as the Welsh Wagon Show. There will be thirty-three performers with the big company. Among the prominent head line acts are: the Marinellas, Miss Vera, Louis Beauvais . . . St. Alban Sisters, the La Mottes, Alfred Heintz, Mlle. Zanta, Miss Millie Dair, Max Hugo, Harry F. West, Joseph Kearney . . . Pete Watson, Prof. Harry Mohn and others. A big concert band will be made a special feature, with Herbert M. Whittier as director. J. N. Holcomb, late cornet soloist with Liberati's Band, is with this party, and M. H. and John Welsh will look after the business, and Prof. Newton will direct the performances and do the press work.
Fred Knight, the veteran animal man, has joined the Lemen Bros.' Circus, to take charge of the menagerie and the large elephant, "Raga."
The Bros. Valveno have signed with Sig. Sautelle's Big Shows for the summer tenting season.
Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Shows. Things are of the humming order around the winter quarters, carpenters, blacksmiths and painters being especially busy, making new and remodeling the old, as everything must be bright for the start. This season the show goes out bigger, better and stronger than ever before, more wagons, stock and canvas being added. Our new advance wagon, which is completed, will be quite an improvement over the one used last season. The ticket wagon is also ready to leave the shop, and the work done on it is likewise commented on. Everything will be ready for the first of May, when we take the road for another record breaking season, for such the ones preceding have been, and we will visit a goodly number of last year's towns.
Mrs. Annie Thomson, formerly Annie Picard, has signed with the John Robinson Show for the coming season, and will not join her husband, Capt. Hugh Thomson, who is now in the Philippine Islands, until next Fall.
The painting and decorating of the Rhoda Royal Shows is all done, and everything is now ready for the opening. That will take place in Geneva, O., Saturday, April __.
April showers from Sig. Sautelle. With old winter's backbone broken, the work of getting the road stock hard and in good condition now receives full attention. The horses are being driven daily, and those just received from the farm are groomed and grain fed once more. As this is the first time in the history of Homer that a circus has begun its season here, all the residents of the town and surrounding territory propose to do full honor to the event the opening day, May 11. Business blocks and other buildings will be elaborately decorated in bunting and flags, and altogether a gala time is promised. . . . The sewers employed on wardrobe have completed their labors. Everything is in readiness for the road, and the show could open tomorrow but for the weather.
Tony Richardson writes: "Having completed my municipal duties as mayor of my home city, Astabula, O., on April __, I once again return to the managerial forces, having signed with the Rhoda Royal Shows as treasurer and assistant manager. We open the season at Geneva, O., April __ . . . L. V. Strebig, manager, who is very carefully looking after every detail, while Messrs. Royal and ___ are right up to date in their departments. The scene at the winter quarters is nearly in readiness to move. Don McKenzie has charge of advance car No. 1."
Notes from Harrington's Combined Shows. The wood workers and painters are all hustling to have everything in readiness for our opening, which will be Sunday, May _, at Cook's Park, Evansville, Ind. We will put on an illuminated night parade on Sunday night, before our opening. The show will remain here for one week, making one day stands. After leaving here, touring our old route, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri and Kentucky. The show will be under the management of E. A. Harrington. Wm. A. Harrington will be in advance, with one assistant and two bill posters.
___ T. Dillon, manager for Otis Turner's Big Consolidated Shows, was a Clipper caller April 14. The season opens about May 21. The show will carry fifty people and twenty-five head of stock, with a completely new outfit.
New York Clipper, April 28, 1900, p. 201. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources. Notes from the Great Van Amburg & Gallagher Combined Shows. Manager Gallagher has returned from his trip to New York, where he went to buy wardrobe and trappings for the show. The wagons are all finished, and great credit is due Mr. Schmidt, the Genesee Street wagon manufacturer, for his fine work. Williams Bros., canvas manufacturers, will have all canvas ready by April __. The printing, which is all new, is very artistic and attractive. The horses are looking fine . . . With a few finishing touches here and there the ever favorite, old fashioned, one ring circus, that will bring back fond recollections of bygone barefoot days, will inaugurate the season at Buffalo, N.Y., Wednesday, May 9. Among the new features signed are Mlle. Minnetta, daring outside ascensionist; the La Mont Brothers, Harry and Charlie, hand balancers and wire walkers; Dan De Land, John Anderson, Jas. R. Hill and Leon Ardell, gymnasts; the La Grandes, acrobats. Prof. Swain and William Scherer have secured the side show and candy privileges, and Prof. Swain's trained goats, chickens, dogs and monkeys will be a card. . . .
Harry Howard has signed with the Rhoda Royal Show as door talker and announcer.
Harry Rengard has closed nine week playing dates, and will join the B. B. and H. Circus May 7, for the summer season.
Waterbury [Connecticut]. George Goodheart, representing Ringling Brothers' Shows, was in town 19 in quest of a former employee of the circus, named Roy, who has been circulating about the city the past few days collecting orders for lithographs, tickets, making pretentions to taking the names and addresses of the holders, claiming to be duly authorized, etc., and further promising to mail the seat coupons with a proper door pass. It is as yet unknown how many people have suffered from his operations, but he seems to have gotten away before being detected.
New York Clipper, May 5, 1900, p. 201. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Lewis & Copeland's Big 10 and 20 Cent Shows opened at Guthrie, O. T., for three days, April __, with the following people in the line up: Lewis & Copeland, proprietors; Sam Copeland, manager . . . J. Jackson, perch, single traps and webs; Wm. Franklin, high wire, slack wire and flying rings; Sam Copeland, principal clown. Ed. Johnson, balancing trapeze and juggling; Wm. Lewis, contortion; Lewis and Copeland, double trapeze and revolving ladder . . . We had our first blowdown afternoon of 24, at Iowa City, but, fortunatley, no one hurt. The show will make the Oklahoma circuit and then go into Arkansas for the rest of the season.
G. Burkhart has signed with Sig. Sautell's Circus for the season.
In Washington, D.C., the long considered and much debated question of granting permits to circuses has been settled by the adoption of the following amendment to Section 14, Article __, of the Police Regulations: "That no circus shall hereafter be located, operated, or conducted on any lot or open space without the consent of __ per cent of the ___ keeping house in the square on which it is proposed to hold the circus, and on the square confronting said circus ground." The adoption of the above amendment was recommended to the commissioners by the attorney for the district.
May flowers from Sig. Sautelle's New Big 25 Cent Shows. . . . Cortland, our second stand three miles from home, has entered into a good natured rivalry with Homer, in preparing a right royal reception for Mr. Sautelle and his shows. Our first billing brigade of twelve men started out Saturday last, and acting under orders, they are putting up as much matter as opposition circuses. Every sheet is a special design, and as attractive as mone and art can produce. The second brigade will leave during the present week, and the advertising agent next Monday. All of the musicians have arrived, and Band Master Flynn and his men are making the ___ around Homer resound with music. The performers are scheduled to report within the next few days, and all signs now indicate a most auspicious opening, Thursday, May 10. An innivation which will be heartily appreciated by patrons and performers alike is a new system of lighting. Mr. Sautelle has secured a recently patented light, and a sufficient number will be used to illuminate the big top more brilliantly than could the brightest mid-day sun. Other improvements, attending to the comfort, pleasure and convenience of patrons, have been made . . .
Frank F. La Vell has finished a series of dates, and is now taking a vacation in Syracuse, N.Y., prior to opening for the summer season with the Foster & Wilkins Circus.
Chas. Ellet, of the ___ Bros., was initiated in the B. P. O. Elks at Danville, Ill., April __, and was presented with an Elk's charm by manger J. H. La Pearl, with whom the Ellets have signed for this season, making their sixth season with that show.
Notes from the Star Circus. Everything is being put in readiness for the opening day at Rock Creek, O. Will put out about thirty people and forty head of stock. We have signed for the coming season: . . . Kittie Kimball, and others . . .
Princess Sultana has closed at the Imperial Theatre, Atlanta, Ga., and has joined the Robinson Circus for the season.
New York Clipper, May 19, 1900, pp. 265, 268. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Great Rhoda Royal Shows. Business has been far beyond the expectations of the most sanguine, and that this show is meeting with deserved approval is made evident by the compliments paid by press and public. Opposition and unseasonable weather have had no effect, for at every performance the spacious tents have been filled. The Eddy family are continuing their popularity, and in fact every feature with the show has come in for praise. The sixty-three horse act of Prof. Berris is a winner, as is Madame Royal's menage act. The rough riders and Rhoda Royal bring forth unlimited applause. Inadvertently genial "Tony" Richardson, ex-mayor of Ashtabula and ex-treasurer of the Walter L. Main Show, but now treasurer of the Rhoda Royal Show, found himself re-christened in the Clipper last week. By mis-spelling his name his individuality was lost. "Tony" has been officially entertained in every town the show has visited this season. He is popular, both as a showman and a politician. Walter L. Main visited the show at Ashtabula, and pronounced it the most complete, clean and up to date he has ever seen. William J. Doris has added several new features to the annex. "Olga" will strengthen her snake act by adding six alligators to her den. When everything is completed Mr. Doris will have the strongest annex and concert among the tented exhibitions this season. Snow and ice made poor circus weather the latter part of last week, but the tents were comfortable. This tells the number of people that were inside. Charlie Thomas has signed as head reserved seat ticket seller.
Rays from Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows. We have just finished the month of April, also the State of North Carolina, and are now entering Virginia, where we expect to remain for a few weeks. The show did a splendid business despite the fact that we encountered several days of bad weather. New horses and ponies have been added. . . . Chas. Rheinsmith joined in Stoneville, N.C. Everyone who sees the show say it is the best 25 cent show they have seen. In our last letter we inadvertanly failed to mention in our roster A. J. Wayne, ring master. The weather has settled now and indication point to good weather, which means big business for the World's Progressive in Virginia. . . . The annex has been enlarged and several new people added. Mr. Bauscher is making a reputation and lots of money.
Notes from the Foster Wilkins Great London Shows. Everything is fast getting into shape at our winter quarters and our opening date, May 24, will see this show bigger and better than ever before. Our new 80ft. round top, with 40ft. middle piece, has arrived. It is made of the finest duck and has been treated to a new process, making it absolutely waterproof. Our advance brigade starts this week and will put out some of the finest paper ever used by a 10 and 20 cent show. Every stand is special lithograph work. Our band, under the leadership of Prof. Al. De Berry, will be made a feature of the show. We will carry in all thirty-five people. Roster: M. L. Foster and F. C. Wilkins, sole owners and managers; Charles Thomas, general director; Prof. Al. De Barry, band master; Prof. Claude May and his dog circus; Eddie and Josie Simpson, breakaway ladder; Frank La Vell, contortionist; Fred and Geo. La Plants, acrobats; Ella Reynolds, female clown; D. Taylor, juggler; Mable Loretta, trapeze; Dan C. and Ida Mauning, Dan Pomeroy, Wm. and Hazel Adell.
Lowery Bros.' New Olympia Show notes. Our business is like Prof. David McDade's monster balloon - big. Wherever we exhibit press and public pronounce it to be the best popular priced tented show that ever visited their city. Prof. McDade and his monster balloon ascend nightly, and prove a great card, and the mass of people that gather must come many miles to see him make his daring parachute leap while seven thousand feet from the earth, and the crowd around our tent nightly in a moving mass of humanity. Geo. B. Lowery, sole owner and director; Prof. David McDade, press agent and aeronaut; Wallace Keffer, advance, with three assistants; Prof. J. E. Burtine, equestrian director, with ponies, dogs and donkeys; band of ten people . . . Harry Lynn, contortion and rings; Chas. O'Brien, John D. Jenkins, clowns; Zellar, gymnast; W. Regina, hand balancer; the Kelleys, revolving ladder; Lydia Jenkins, slack wire and club swinger; Jack Zellars, sailor perch, and Baby Irene Kober, contortionist. The Aerialist Kobers will close on May 28 to join the Oriental State Carnival, while the Whitlarks join in Trenton, N.J. for the summer.
From Sig. Sautelle's Shows. By the time a copy of the Clipper reaches us the season's initial parade will have ended and J. E. Ogden, manager of the side show, will be exercising his oratorial powers upon the populace. The department under his supervision, like the big show, has been greatly enlarged and improved, and in front on eighteen double deck banners will be depicted everything to be found within. Equestrian director Charles Watson has the programme completed, and he states it is fille with imperial acts. Superintendent Rhodes finds enought work to keep him busy early and late. The new tents arrived last week, and superintendent of canvas Traver and his men have equipped them with needed ropes and blocks. This season our canvas covers about five acres of ground and looks the real thing. Superintendent of horses Smith has the stock in the pink of condition and fit for the summer's work. General agent Curtis is ___ a clear field ahead. He has the following named men in the first brigade: Bill posters, C. Bell, John Mahoney . . . Harry Moore, Fred Glenn, John Mooney, Fred Jacobs; banners, Oscar Johnson; lithographers, H. E. Griswold, Hal ___. The second brigade is in charge of Earle C. Peck and includes ___, Fred Thomas and Myer Johnson.
Notes from the Jas. M. Goodrich Shows, which opened the season at Western, W. Va., April 28, to packed houses afternoon and evening. Everything with the show is new from bale ring to cook house, and looks as bright as a dollar. Goodrich's stock of trained horses and ponies are in the pink of condition. . . . The band is under the leadership of Jack Hoffman, with the following men: Harry hart, G. A. Hoffman, O. Beckler, J. W. Beckler, J. W. Goldworth, F. Bonestead, R. Fagley, Fred Whitlock, Billy Smith and H. Willard. Performers: Three Rexfords, the Russells, Maude Mardo, Fred Honmer, Nierhart Bros., the Queens, Honmer Hall, Bella Goodrich, James Goodrich, Harry Marshall, Jack McDonnal. Tents and cars under the management of Bill Parker.
Notes from Moore Bros. & Co.'s Two Big Tent Shows, United. We are making Kingfisher, Okla, our winter quarters, and are going to make this our opening point. Things are assuming a business aspect, as the time for opening, May 15, draws near. Our executive staff will be as follows: W. A. Moore, general manager; A. J. Sanderback, treasurer; F. A. Moore, secretary; T. W. Moore, contractor; Fred. Moore, agent; Ed. F. Moore, in charge of advance; Harry Edwards, equestrian director. We will carry fifteen wagons, all new; thirty-eight horses, 80x120 top, and about forty people.
Lulu Mitchell joined the Great Wallace Show at Peru, Ind.
The Dixon, Bowers and Dixon Circus opened in Sidney, N.Y., on May 1, and showed to packed business. During the week we encountered two heavy snow storms, and had one blow down; still, with all our oppositions, business has been away above our expectations. Everything now is running smooth.
Myrtle Day had to cancel her engagement with the John Robinson Shows on account of a severe attack of the grip. She will play parks this summer.
Buckskin Bill's Wild West notes. This show opened May _, at Paducah, Ky. Everything connected with the outfit will be A1. Messrs. Terrell Bros. have expended a large sum of money and spared no expense in arranging details. The canvas, which is entirely new, comprises a horse tent, with an 80ft. round top and five 50ft. middle pieces; dressing tent, 50ft. round top, with 30ft. middle pieces; annex, 80ft. round top, with 50 ft. middle piece; dining tent 30x60ft. The arena will be 300ft. long and 250ft. wide. The seating capacity will include twenty-five lengths of reserved seats and thirty lengths of blues. All seats are to be covered by a waterproof canopy. This show will travel in their own special train of seventeen cars. Our stock will consist of seventy-five head of cow ponies, fifty-five head of baggage horses, with steers, burros, etc. We will also require some twenty-five wagons, all new. The cowboys are sixteen in number, bing the best men available in the Western country. Bill Foster, the noted old time cowboy rifle and revolver expert, will be a feature with the show. There is also a band of genuine vaqueros, direct from Old Mexico. The Indians are forty in number, from the Pin Ridge Agency, S.D. Other features are a band of Roosevelt's rough riders, troupe of Arabs, together with detatchments of United States cavalry, artillery, German, English and French soldiers and Irish lanclers, and Cubans, representing different branches of military service.
Chas. La Selle, late of the La Selle Brothers, acrobats, bar and trapeze performers, died in Houlton, Me., May 13, of the grip, aged fifty-nine years. Interment was mad in the family plot in Rockland, Me. He had formerly traveled with various circuses and minstrel companies, but a few years ago retired from the profession, and entered the insurance business as a traveling agent, in which line he was employed at the time of his death.
New York Clipper, May 26, 1900, p. 297. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Harrington's Combined Shows. This show opened at Cook's Park, Evansville, Ind., May _, to the capacity of the tent at the matinee and turned hundreds away at night. We gave an illuminated parade Saturday night, before the opening - the first night parade ever given in the city by a circus - which was a fine display. Roster: the Three Triplets, Vice, Della and Trip; Vernell and Axley, Al. D. Halle, Joe Ritzel, Will Switzer, Beddie and Baty Harrington, in the dressing frrom; C. O. Parmley, leader of the band; C. L. Baker, H. C. Brown, Chas. Axley, Joe Henley, J. E. Axley, Al. Weierbaucher, Bert Stone, Ted Long and Ed. Ford; W. A. Harrington, in advance with three assistants; Frank Kelzer, assistant contracting agent, and Jim Whalen and Claude Roe, billposters; Claude Vinson, boss canvas man, with three assistants; Chas. Hunnicut, in charge of lights; Dad Murray, in charge of the stock, with six assistants; E. A. Harrington, sole owner and manager.
Notes from the Great Rhoda Royal Shows. Nothing but success has thus far crowned this show, and the first small audience is yet to be catered to. Press and public are unanimous in praise, and many letter of congratulation have been received from official and leading busines. The Eddy Family, Madame Royal, Prof. Berris, M. Rhoda Royal, the Petet Family, the Rough Riders and Thompson Boys are certainly making hits in every city and town. Standing room was at a premium at every night performance last week. Opposition and disagreeable weather have had no effect upon the attendance and that the show is a winner to the fullest limit is a settled fact. Everything is running smoothly and satisfactorily, and all are in the best of spirits. Charlie Thomas has signed as head reserved ticket seller. Mr. Thomas has held a similar position with the leading circuses of the country. He was last season with the Walter L. Main Show. At Ellwood City, Clark Bros. closed their large flass works and provided all their employees with tickets to attend the show.
Notes from the Whitney Big One Ring Show. We opened April 28, at Attica, O., and have been doing good business ever since. The show is new in every detail this season. Prof. John Phillips' band makes a hit daily. Roster: A. V. Whitney, proprietor; C. A. Whitney, general manager; W. Walbourn, business representative; John S. Phillips, leader of band; C. O. Harvey, leader of orchestra; Mart Thomas, master of transportation; J. Phillips, boss canvas man, with seven assistants; E. S. Murphy, general agent; Neola, the Brobst Trio, George, Madge and Baby Stanley; Zaro, W. C. Jenkinson, Leon Whitney, the Walbournes, Will and Lola; C. V. Harvey, H. L. Howard, W. L. Welling, C. L. Prentiss, John S. Phillips, Mrs. G. L. Whitney, Nettie Smith, Martin Thomas, M. Simmons and Alfred Knapp.
The Leondor Bros. Big One Ring Shows opened their third season at Portland, Ore., May 12, for five performances, with 100ft. round top, __ft. middle piece, seventy-eight horses, eighteen wagons and sixty-five people.
Randall and Randall have joined the Rhoda Royal Show for the season, to work in concert and do singing clowns.
Bert Davis has been engaged by the Forepaugh-Sells Shows as press agent, back with the show. James De Wolfe, Frank O. Miler, Whiting Allen and J. M. ___ now consitute the editorial staff ahead of this big institution.
New York Clipper, June 2, 1900, p. 310. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Roster of the Robinson Show. Proprietor and manager, John G. Robinson; general manager of all advance, Gilbert N. Robinson; general agent, Oliver Scott; railroad contractor, Geo. W. Aiken; local contractor, H. I. Ellis; manager advance car No. 1, J. M. J. Kane; manager advance car No. 2, Wm. Dale; chief of opposition brigade, Bob Cullin; auditor, Col. Dan Dale; superintendnet, E. C. Cullin; fron door in charge of John Lowlow; assistant manager and director, Robert Stickney; equestrian director, Wm. Dutton; treasurer, Rudolph Gessley; express agent, Capt. F. B. Wilson; twenty-four hour agent, Charles Robinson; band master M. C. Rogers, with Grace Rogers, cornet soloist and thirty musicians, furnish the music. The side show is in the hands of Phil Ellsworth. Among the equestrian performers we have, of the lady riders, Miss Effie Dutton, principal trick rider; Kittie Kruger, principal rider and four horse act; Louise De Mott, menage; Blanche Hilland, four horse act; Maud Hocum, principal act, and Winnie Van, carrying act; Amy Van, horizontal bars; Mlle. Theole and Nina, revolving aerial act and rings; Maggie Leone, Roman rings and break away perch ladder; Lulu Roberts and little Eva Robers, double trapeze; Flossy Bennet, statues and juggling; Stella Kramer, Anna Tomason, Nina Farrington, race riders . . . Leons and Leona . . . Shondel, Vontello, aerialists and acrobats; Lon Moore, head of clowns, which includes Harry Greene, ___, Jack Rutherford, Scandlin, Al. Hayes, Joe Shondel and Jim Moore; Col. Woods and his educated ponies, second season; Ed. Holden, with his educated pigs. George Steele, Thomas Ambrose, Pete Smeigle, Jas. Orr and Ed. Van Skike, compose our brigade of ticket sellers; master of transportation, Chas. H. Underwood and eight assistants; the canvas is in the hands of James Caskey, with eight assistants; the side show canvas is in the hands of Rhos. Fairchild, with two assistants; Wm. Fulker, boss hostler, with two assistants; Wm. McCoy, boss property man, with three assistants; Carl Kramer, master of scenery, with two assistants; Harry Heinz, ring stock boss; Ed. Sherwood, in charge of commissary department. The rank and file of the show numbers 282 people. Our train, which is run in two sections, numbers forty-two cars. Never in the history of the Robinson Show has it been more complete than one now finds it. Our parade is commented on by press and public unanimously as without a peer in the circus business. A thirty cage menagerie, no two of which cages are alike either in design or color. All harness and trappings are absolutely new, and visiting showmen pronounce the show at the top of the list. We are carrying a complement of two hundred and forty head of horses, fifty-eight ponies, and, with the new shipment of elephants, secured by Mr. Robinson this winter, which will reach us in about ten days, we will have a herd of seven elephants. Add to this twenty-two camels, all of which we have succeeded in harnessing togehter, and which form the distinguishing feature of the parade. Business has been, up to late, more than satisfactory.
Roster of Gollmar Bros.' Two Ring Circus and Menagerie. Gollmar Bros., sole proprietors; Chas. H. Gollmar, manager; B. F. Gollmar, treasurer; Fred Gollmar, advance manager; W. A. Gollmar, equestrian manager; Frank MaCort, manager of annex; James Fitzgerald, manager of concert; Ed. Jamison, contractor. H. Sylvester, program; D. C. Hall, cook house; Ed. Maher, candy stand; George Shumway, boss butcher; Chas. Williams, boss canvas man of big top; Curly Ross, boss canvas man of menagerie; "Dutch," boss canvas man of annex; Frank Eart, boss property man; George Dicks, boss wardrobe man; Tim Buckley, boss elephant man; Jack Jordan, boss animal man; Jack Katen, boss hostler; Prof. Frank Seavey, bandmaster, with the following men: W. Huckins, H. F. Hall, E. E. Peaslee, Ed. Fowler, Chas. Heartell, W. Fink, Vic Graham, Frank Graham, Chas. ___, J. F. Marsh and J. H. Franklin. Prof. J. G. Norris, leader of band No. 2, with the following men: Harry Brandon, Wm. Willis, F. H. Golden, A. C. Golden, Frank Gilley and Chas. Goldsmith. Drum Corps, with the following men: Fred Shaw, George Vase, W. Ward and M. Larkins. Performers in big show: John Rooney, somersault rider; Willis Gollmar, somersault rider; Herr Drayton, cannon ball king; Harry Brandon and Otto Weaber, wire walkers . . . Walt Gollmar, trained pigs; Shaw Bros., double aerial act; Mrs. Harry Brandon, juggler; May Vano, juggler; Fred and Walter Shaw, single trapeze; Wm. Danzell and Madame Irene, manege acts; POsento and Weaber, balancing trapeze; Herr Drayton, foot juggler; Frank Lavo, foot juggler; John Rooney and Willis Gollmar, jockey riders; May Lano and Wm. Daizell, hurdle and four horse riders; Harry Brandon, Fred Shaw, Walter Shaw, W. Ward and George ___, clowns; Palm, the educated elephant, worked by Prof. Buckley; James Fitzgerald, Walt Gollmar, John Rooney and Willis Gollmar, ring masters. Concert people: Harry Brandon, Mrs. Harry Brandon . . . May Tano and James Fitzgerald. Annex people: Frank MaCort, Jessie MaCort, Vivian MaCort, Prof. Dan Hall, mental wonder; Madame Blandell and Jessie Hall. Outside exhibition by Harry Brandon, James Fitzgerald and Prince, high diving dog. The show has been enlarged to a considerable extent, and opened at Baraboo, Wis., to big business, which has kept up to the present writing.
Notes and roster of Reed's 25 cent European Shows. A. H. Reed, proprietor and manager; Mrs. Viola Reed, treasurer. We carry a company of thirty-eight people, using twelve wagons and thirty head of stock to transport the show. Big top 70x100 ft.; 30ft. dressing room, __ horse tent, __ dining tent. Frank Dempsey has charge of canvas, with eight assistants. Col Jim Hays has the side show and concert; Dan ___, leader of band, with the following musicians: T. Morris, G. Upchurch, Billy Lowe, E. Boyce, Pete Waite, Peggey Long and Fred Brenner. Performers with the big show: . . . Billy Lowe, talking and singing clown; Brenner and Dunhan, bars and revolving ladder . . . Rialdo, equilibrist, aerialist and knockabout clown; Mrs. Viola Ree's troupe of educated dogs and ponies. Little Lena Hays' singing and dancing is a feature in the concerts. C. H. Rigall, advance representative, with two assistants, is doing good work ahead. Out route lies through Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky. Business is good as can be expected at present. This is our fifth week out and the ghost walks regularly.
Reno's Oriental Show notes. We are now in the third week of phenomenal business. We have had plenty of rainy weather, but it has only had a tendency to boom our business. Our programme is far ahead of anything presented by any shows ever through this section. Our roster embraces the Famous Martinnetties' three brohter act; Kelman and Fraser, combined triple bars and casting act; Arnold and Ryan, double traps; Denny Dolan, contortionist; Little Emily, slack wire; Hibbard and Basco, revolving ladder; Arthur Humeston, principal clown; Edward Reno's trained dogs and ponies; Auline Reno, in terpsichorean specialty; C. A. Hibbard, swinging wire act; La Basco Bros., return act, and theodore Nelmonia, bounding rope. Our line of tumbling is under the supervision of Edwain Martinettie. Our band of eight is under the leadership of Prof. Stevens. Our parade is flashy and receives hearty compliments. Our stock, forty-four head, is attended by Albert ___, with six assistants. Our new special of canvas, 80x130ft., is under the supervision of Joseph Groves, with seven assistants. Chas. Arnold is boss property man, with three assistants, with Wm. Cone, chandeliers. Our cook house is presided over by Robert Dorsey, head chef, with five assistants, and is voted A No. 1. The old timer, Winfield Scott, is our night watch. We carry forty-two people, forty-four head of stock and sixteen wagons. Our advance brigade consists of W. B. Alvord and King Solman, contractors, with three wagons and four assistants.
The Merchants' American R. R. Circus opened at Corry, Pa., May 10, where three performances were given, to good business, and this has been the rule every day since. The show has two cars and spreads an 80ft. top, with 50ft. middle piece. There are fort people with the show. The principal features are Loretta's horse, Fred, whose work is marvelous, and distinctly different from that of others, and the high diving dog Dot, which climbs to the top of a 70ft. ladder and makes the dive without hesitation. Following are the other ring acts: Holman Bros., bars; Josie St. Arno, flying rings; Loretta, single traps; the Lavernes, double traps; Oscar Holman, perch; Inman, acrobatic contortion act; Bruce Clark, clown, and the whole company in leaps and ground work. The band, which consists of twelve musicians, is a cracker jack. The roster: C. F. Brown, musical director; Gus. Jacqua, R. Adams, H. C. Pfaff, N. Terwilliger, Geo. Edwards, C. Snyder, C. Mensenger, Geo. La Val, Geo. Herrick, V. McGraw and L. F. Trimble.
From Sig. Sautelle's Big 25 Cent Shows. Failure upon the part of our weather clerk to "fix" Nature resulted in a chilly atmosphere for our opening at Homer, N.Y. The initial performances had long been the sole topic of conversation all over the neighborhood, and the frigid weather in no way interfered with business, the big top being packed to the ring bank at both the afternoon and evening performances. The whole town was in holiday attire and at noon the public schools and factories were closed for the remainder of the day. A low temperature and rain have been dividing honors for several days, yet this handicap is easily beaten out by "the world's greatest," the first week's receipts of which have shattered all previous records, and Mr. Sautelle is warranted in believing the present season will prove the most prosperous he has ever known. Dave Haley is our general agent, and not Mr. Curtis, as was erroneously stated. During the next week we will hae one of three big railroad shows in opposition at one stand or another, yet we are bound to get our share of business. Our Utica date will long be remembered as Grand Army Day from the fact that both shows were visited by several hundred veterans, who had been in attendance at the State encampment. In Cortland we added a new team of blacks to our equine department, which was further increased in numbers by the purchase of a third black horse, in Norwich. Wherever we exhibit the press and public unhesitatingly pronounce our the largest, best, and most pleasing 25 cent circus extant.
New York Clipper, June 9, 1900, pp. 332, 333. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Welsh Bros.' Newest Great. The fifth week of the present season has just been concluded . . . The Keystone State has been the base of our operations. Lancaster, Columbia, Lebanon, Harrisburg, Reading, Allentown, South Bethlehem and ___ furnished capacity audiences at nearly every performance. . . . The big show act that are scoring heavily are: . . . the St. Alban Sisters, dual aerial expositors; Louis Beauvais, in miraculous backward dives from a twenty foot ladder to the ground; Misses Dair, Vera and Zanta, in novelty aerial specialties; Harry Mohn's combined ponies and dogs; Berger, Bard and Ducrow, triple bar experts, and Alfred ___, upside down equilibrist. The clown sextette (Max Hugo, Harry F. West, Jos. Kearney, Jos. Ducrow, Pete Watson and Claude La Motte, the clown band, the trained giraffe "Jargo," and the vocal quartet are among the comic entrees exploited by these fun makers. The "after show" is drawing big patronage and giving first class satisfaction. Claude and Nellie La Motte, with their Hindoostan cabinet mystery, are the feature of this department. Herbert H. Whittier's musican marvels are proving to be an important factor in the success of the show; their concerts previous to the opening of the performance are always received with tumults of applause. Charles Gerlach, solo cornettist, and J. J. Barnhart, tuba soloist, are recent additions to this organization. Recent visitors to the show were Alf. T. Ringling and wife, of the Ringling Shows; Major Gordon W. Lillie, of Pawnee Bill's Show, and John H. Sparks, of the Sparks Shows, and all expressed themselves as being well pleased with our "little family" show. The coming month will find us in the state of New Jersey, our first visit through that section of the country.
Notes from Shott Bros.' Great Olympia Shows. We are now in our third week, and business is good. Roster: Shott Bros., proprietors; I. D. Shott [J. D.?], manager; Wm. Shott, treasurer; John Shott, advance No. 1, with three assistants; Henry Garrett, advance No. 2, with two assistants; E. D. Shott, in charge of privileges; La Verde Bros., bars and acrobats; Ogden Family, aerialists; W. Peters, juggler; Chas. Ogden, wire and flying trapeze; William Snead, tumbling and hand balancing; Shott Bros., revolving ladder and return act; Morello, flying rings and perch; the Lourean Sisters, double traps and breakaway ladder; Little Edna Ogden, the six year old contortionist; Joe Warden, singing and talking clown; ___, Snead and Shott, knock about clowns. Side show: Prof. Goldie and Mlle. Margurite, Joe. Gardner, Eddie Ogden, Joe and Ida Clark. Our layout is a 70ft. top with a 30ft. middle, dressing 30x50; side show, 40x60; horse tents, 30x70; cook tent, 20x30; fourteen wagons and thirty head of stock. Jerry ___, boss canvas man, with eight assistants; Charlie Kirby, boss hostler, with six assistants; Frank Webb, head cook, with three assistants. Prof. W. H. Ashdown is making balloon ascensionns and parachute jumps daily, with his mammoth balloon, the largest ever carried by a wagon show. We are featuring Prof. Elbert M. Lilly's concert band, consisting of the following musicians: Elbert M. Lilly, leader and director; Albert ___, Robt. Elliott, Edward Swann, H. J. Kelly, Billy Mann, Harry Frankfort, C. J. Ogden, Ed. De Roe, C. F. Land, Napoleon ___, A. C. Riedinger, J. E. Warden and Wm. Snead.
Bonheur Bros.' notes. The show under its new christening, "The New Golden Allied Shows," started earlier by several weeks on its tour this season than in any previous year since it was organized. Bonheur Bros.' three distinct shows under one canvas is now making a record, and a continuous stream of shining silver flows into its coffers from the time of opening the doors till the performance is on, and every one is full of praise of the excellent programmes presented. The wagons rolled out of winter quarters in a golden blaze of glory. The big top is an 80ft. with two 40ft. middle pieces; poles all painted in ___ blue. The horse tent is new and accommodates forty head of stock. Eighteen wagons carry the show, with two wagons in advance, under the management of H. G. Bonheur. Four splendid teams of mules have been added since leaving the quarters. The Black Tent is an additional attraction for afternoon and night shows. A much larger company than in any previous season has been assembled, and all are harmoniously working. Success crowns every effort of the managers. The opening show was given in Augusta, to overwhelming crowds, in spite of rain and mud. Nearly a week of rain had rendered the roads almost impassable, and on April 26 it ceased long enough to allow the show to be given, and resumed its downpour immediately after the night concert. Friday was not billed, but left out to finish arranging for the summer tour. It rained all day Friday till Saturday morning; then it cleared up bright and the tents again went up to fair skies and a big gathering of sightseers. Despite mud and mire the popular showmen were greeted with the biggest ovation Augusta ever witnessed. Roster of the show in part as follows: H. A. Bonheur, vice president; J. R. Bonheur, president; H. G. Bonheur, advance agent, sole owners and managers; Louis Westfall, secretary; E. H. Keetch, Lida Keetch, Edward Brenne, Maud Brenne, Sybil Keetch, Jack Lackore, E. N. Whitmarsh, Henry Young, Elmer Young, Roy Bickford, Eph ___, William Shannon, Oklahoma Bill, Nathan Irwin, Earl H. Saunders, Will Harper, Arch Allen, George Fuller, "Popcorn George," Chas. Britton, T. J. Dawson, ___, and Louis Westfall, son of Conductor Westfall, who was killed at Winston, Mo., by Jesse James.
George E. Elser, while giving an exhibition of his riding at Orange, N.J., May 21, accidentally fell from his horse, taking the skin completely off one side of his nose and cutting an ugly gash over his left eye, which required six stitches to close; besides, his head was cut in many places. He was unconcious two hours. Mr. Elser had just returned from the Barnum & Bailey Circus in Germany.
Roster of advance guard of Cullin Bros.' Shows: Robt. J. Mercer, contracting agent; Al Mable, official programmer; R. J. Thomas, boss bill poster, with four assistants.
Notes from the Wm. H. Gillmeyer's Show. On our opening week, in Camden, N.J., business was big. On May _, in Ardmore, Pa., the home of W. H. Gillmeyer, we were unable to show owing to a severe rainfall, continuing all day. We opened in Philadelphia May 21, for a few weeks. On our opening night there were fully 1,000 turned away unable to get in. One of the great features of the show is Madam Yucca, who drives the No. 1 band chariot, with eight handsome horses, in the street parade, which is quite a novelty. Now Mamie Forepaugh is insisting that the manager allow her to drive chariot No. 2, but wants sixteen horses on it. Manager Golt is trying to persuade her to accept twelve horses, but by the time this reaches you no doubt she will be driving the sixteen horses. Mr. Gillmeyer has purchased six handsome performing ponies, which he has added to the show this week. Willie Lowanda and his trained dog and pony; Miss Wilson, trapeze artist . . . Mr. Whittaker is making a great success with his jockey act. E. J. Holland, the principal clown singer, has made good with his songs. The show intendes to visit the large cities only this season.
Notes from Tony Lowande's Show. We closed a prosperous winter season in ___ de Cuba, May _, and organized an entire new company. We are now in the Vueta Abaja, the great tobacco country of Cuba, where the name "Lowande" has reigned supreme for years. Business is tremendous. The prices of admission are as follows: general admission, $1; reserved chairs, $1 eatra; boxes, with four chairs, $5 extra; children 50c. The company: Tony Lowande, proprietor and manager; Josie Lowande, equestrienne; Lillie Meers, equestrienne; Marie Luisa, impersonating Cuban negro dances; Mlle. Rita, sensational aerialist; Juanita Reyes, flying rings; Mlle. Eva, contortionist; the Great Tatali, contortion rings; Archie O'Brien, jockey and mule hurdle rider; Rita and Humberto, equilibrist; Pedro Forres, clown swing and negro comedian; Aurello Reyes, clown; Magil Romero, Cuban clown; Daniel Titoe, leader of band; Rafael Argote, agent No. 1; Isadore Ortega, agent No. 2.
Charles Stewart McFetridge died at Birmingham, Ala., May 21, from the effects of a pistol shot fired by R. S. Alden, in that city, May 4. The shooting grew out of an alleged assault upon Allen by McFetridge, who was said to be insanely jealous of his wife, Mlle. A. Louisa. He was with the Bostock Carnival Co., in 1899, as boss canvas man, and has acted in the same capacity for Franklin Robinson, Sells and Jno. Robinson's Shows. His home is in Trenton, N.J. He was thirty-three years old and has three brothers, William, at Cambridge, Mass; Tom, who is a potter, at Cincinnati, and Joe, a baker, in the same city. He was shot last Fall, at the State Fair at Birmigham, in the German Village on the Midway, and although badly wounded recovered after a long seige in the hospital. His wife, Mlle. Louisa, has at different times done bareback riding, wire walking, ballooning and Spanish dancing.
Roster of advance No. 1, Walter J. McDonald's Combined Colossal Shows. Harry Busenbark, agent; Fred Jones, Harry Bradley, Wm. Budy, Spot Sickles and Frank Cahn, billposters; Chas. Harris, lithographer; Jack Smith, programmer.
Frank F. La Vell and De Forest F. Taylor, after a separation of two years, have again joined hands, and are with Foster & Wilkins' London Circus, touring New York State.
Edmund J. Gardner, trap drummer, died May 18, at the home of his mother, Mrs. Nett M. Gardner, In Pulaski, N.Y., after a bried illness, aged thirty-three years. The remains were taken to Watertown, where the funeral was conducted, 20, by the Improved Order of Red Men, of which organization deceased was a member. He had traveled with the Al. G. Field Minstrels, Sig. Sautelle's Circus, Stone's "U.T.C.," and various other companies. His last engagement was at Henderson's New Music Hall, Coney Island.
Rialdo is now in his eighth week with Reed's European Shows. Frank Harrison, cornet player, and Ed Basquill, slide trombone player, joined May __.
Notes from Rice & Davis Big United Shows. We began our season April __, at Brockwayville, Pa., to packed houses, and since the opening have done exceptionally good business. We are touring through Western Pennsylvania, and played day and date with the Elton Bros. Show at Tarr, Pa., and both shows did good business. We also had opposition at Mt. Pleasant, with the Parks Show, under canvas, playing on the same lot, and notwithstanding the rainy weather, both of us did fair business. J. A. Jone, our manager, handles everything, and does it with a will.
New York Clipper, June 16, 1900, p. 357. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Elton Bros.' Show. We are on our seventh week of good business. The advance brigade includes H. O. Cunningham, with two assistants. Roster: Sig. Elton and Delbert Yance, proprietors; Sig. Elton, manager; Delbert Yance, treasurer; Prof. G. Irving and Madame Labelle, Arthur Crawford, Chas. Arthur, J. M. Kelly . . . Sig. Elton and Prof. Geo. Clark's troupe of canines. Concert people: J. M. Kelly, Arthur Crawford . . . Our band is under the direction of Prof. C. E. Valentie, with ten musicians: Arthur Early, Frank Fogg . . . Frank Drenne, H. Folk, G. Hanly and W. Boyle. Our big top is 80ft. round top with 40ft. middle piece, twenty lengths of seats. Our horse tents, two, __ft., with forty head of stock. Boss hostler ___ Sackett, with fourteen assistants; boss canvasman, W. Norman, with ten assistants; boss props, John Hickel, with two assistants.
Advance brigade of William Sells & Gray's Circus, season 1900: E. L. Brannan, general agent and railroad contractor; Fred McMann, manager car No. 1; Geo. Combs, local contractor; H. Gordon, press agent; James Jenkins, boss bill poster; H. Theale, B. E. Fitchey . . . F. M. Cappo, James Rodgers, Geo. Arment, Frank Moon and D. R. Davidson, bill posters; Toney Crandall, lithographer; Geo. B. Cook, official programmer. Second advertising brigade: . . . Jno. Warner, boss bill poster; Frank Howard, programmer . . .
Through an oversight the name of Basil McHenry, advance and contracting agent, was omitted from the roster of the Gollmer Bros.' Shows.
Frank Le Roy writes: "I had a very bad accident at St. Thomas with the Lemen Bros. Circus. After the show I went to thecars, and while walking down the railroad track I fell down a trestle twelve feet and broke one of my ribs and suffered internal injuries. I had three doctors to attend me, and was confined to my bed, but after eight days I want to work again, and I am getting along nicely. My female clowning is quite a hit in parade and concert."
New York Clipper, June 23, 1900, p. 377. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
John D. Carey, press agent with the great Rhoda Royal Shows, sends the following: "Six weeks out and nothing but success to tell of. Everything to make the life of a showman unhappy has been encountered, but quickly overcome. Opposition, rain and wind have been met and vanquished. Not a performance lost, and at every turn the figures have been placed on the right side of the ledger. Papers and public alike unite in sounding the praise of this amusement enterprise, and the first complaint is yet to be heard. Everyone is well and happy, and that confidence so often lacking between employer and employee is agreeable conspicuous with the Rhoda Royal people. Our stock, under the direct supervision of Rhoda Royal, is a show in itself, and horsemen in every city and town pronounce it the finest lot of pure and sound horses ever seen together. Madame Royal, in her menage act, introducing her cake walking Arabian horses, is a feature that has won for her columns of press notices and the plaudits of thousands. Prof. Joseph Berris and is sixty-three trained horses has won out ever audience, and he has had to reappear on several occasions. The Eddy Family, now increased to six members are winning new laurels, as is Madame Peter, on the bounding wire; the Petet Family, the Thompson boys, rough riders, and, in fact, every feature with the show. William J. Doris, manager of privileges, has surrounded himself, both in the concert and side show, with features that cause no little favorable comment. Olga has received a new consignment of snakes and alligators that are the centre of attraction. Tony Richardson, treasurer, is renewing many old acquaintances through Pennsylvania. Tony was a successful politician and mayor of Ashtabula, Ohio, and his return to the show field from that political is proving a wise one. . . . Tony Richardson has organized a class to join the Elks, and twelve new members will be added to the Ashtabula Lodge. Among the visitors last week were George Aiken, Harry Dale, and representatives from the Phillips 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' Show and Merchant's Railroad Circus. . . . "
The proprietors and members of the John Robinson Shows immediately after the afternoon performance at Sandusky, O., June _, headed by John ?. Robinson, E. C. Cullen, Wm. Dutton and wife, Capt. Wilson, the genial press agent; Chas. Constatine, performers and others, accompanied by the circus band, proceeded in a body to beautiful Oakland cemetery, where repose the remains of Merritt F. Young, for years treasurer of the Barnum & Bailey Shows. At the grave Ed. C. Cullen made a few remarks appropriate to the solemnity of the occasion, and the band played several dirges, after which those present deposited a most beautiful floral design on the grave . . . with the inscription, "Gone, But Not Forgotten." Many a silent tear was shed during the services, attesting the respect in which Mr. Young was held by the show fraternity, from canvas man to proprietor. Perhaps no man who was ever identified with the amusement profession had achieved so large an amount of personal friendship and esteem, and the news of his death in Jun, 1897, fell like a pall wherever it was received. As the years go by the memory of his good deeds, as well as his kind and genial nature, seems to take a firmer hold upon his old comrades. For this reason no circus company of any prominence that has visited Sandusky since his body was consigned to its last resting place has failed to visit the grave and give expression to their feelings of love and respect.
Notes from the Great Van Amburg & Gallagher Combined Shows. This is our sixth week out and business continues good. Since our opening at Buffalo we have experienced but two rain storms, one at Batavia, N.Y., June 1, and another at Avon, N.Y., 7. The Avon storm was a fierce one. It started at just 8 p.m., with the hippodrome top packed to the ring bank, and it looked very much as if it was going to put us out of business for a few days, until we could get a new canvas. But, fortunately, no damage of importance was done, with the exception of the snapping of a quarter pole and a few side guys. At 8"30 the storm had ceased, and we raised our peaks and lights and started the show. Roster: J. A. Van Amburg & J. P. Gallagher, equal owners; J. G. Hodgins, general agent; Jim Bradley, boss bill poster; Claud Yerkes, in charge of programmes and banners; W. L. Salvail, concert privilege; Miss Salvali, Belle Moroson, Flossie La Blanche, ___, Prof. Swain and wife, trained monks, cockatoos and chickens; Al. Clark, the wild Philippino, Prof. Kirsh, the Wilsons, Fred and Mabel; the Howards, Revetta, J. Dan Rice, trained pigs; Chas. Merathew, leader of band; ___, Harrington, Le Valley, ___, Thompson . . .
Roster of Whittier's Concert Band, with Welsh Bros.' Newest Great Railroad Shows: B. H. Whittier, musical director, Chas. Gerlach, Jas Flannery, ___ S. Beidini, Geo. Young, W. R. Bartham, R. A. Proctor, Clarence Wright, J. Bernhart, ___ and R. West.
Roster of Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' advance car No. 3: H. A. Mann, manager; H. A. Thorpe, boss bill poster; A. Hammell, J. R. Maloney, Geo. Mulvery, Geo. Murray, ___, A. Belfry . . . bill posters; D. C. Mann, paste maker; W. T. Boyer, banners.
Chas. H. Day's latest story is now running in Golden Hours. It is entitled "Herr Driesbach, the Lion King." The hero of the tale is the late lamented Hyatt Frost, and the action occurs at Cincinnati, O., and Connelsville, Ind., in 1866, and introduces, besides Herr Driesbach, James Raymond, the most famous circus manager of his day; his partner, Waring, and ___, their business manager; also Albert Townsend, the celebrated elephant trainer and performer, who is still living in Putman Co., New York State, at the age of eighty-two. Besides being a story of the times it possesses historical interest and accuracy.
Notes from the Walter J. McDonald Combined Colossal Shows. The rapid pace set by this show in its race for patronage from the start is being steadily maintained, and it appears from present indications that it will reach the goal of success. On May 26, that being the anniversary of the birth of Mrs. Walter J. McDonald, she was substantially remembered by members of the circus, all having something to offer individually, while jointly the company presented her with a beautiful silver service.
Jackson, Mich., sent out this press dispatch June __: "While trying to rescue a child from the river last evening, Robert E. Emmons, a young circus performer, was drowned. Emmons is well known all over the country as a trainer of circus ponies and trick dogs. Last evening he started to go fishing on the Grand River, taking along John ___, the six year old son of a neighbor. While crossing the river on the Lake Shore Railroad bridge, the boy fell in and Emmons plunged after him, but became stuck in the mud and weeds and was unable to extricate himself. Both bodies were recovered an hour later."
Notes from the Ballenger Family Pavilion Show. We opened our show on May _, this making our sixth week out. We are peacefully and triumphantly making our way through the good old State of Virginia, and can truthfully state that we have been doing a large business all along. . . . Our complete roster is as follows: Matt Ballenger, general manager; Frank Warner, superintendent; ___, assistant superintendent; Mrs. Matt Ballenger, treasurer; Verna Ballenger, leader of band . . . Performers: . . . Verna Ballenger and Master Percy, double contortion; Orman Grant and Mae Boyle, sketch, producing Dutch, Irish, and negro specialties . . . Daly and Freeman, double trapeze and flying return act; James Warner, principal taling and knockabout clown; ___ Daly, sensational cloud swing; Lizzie Ballenger, feats of strength with teeth and jaws and giant slide for life; Verna Ballenger, troupe of educated canines; Maron and Daly, acrobatic comiques . . .
Notes from Capt. W. D. Ament's Big City Show. Everything around the show is moving along nicely, and houses for the past two weeks have been record breakers. At Elgin we were obliged to turn people away by hundreds, it being utterly impossible to accommodate the crowds. The show has been greatly strengthened the past four weeks, all the bad acts being weeded out and new people taking their places, until every act is a strong feature. The performance is a pleasant surprise to the many patrons, and goes like wild fire from start to finish. The new arrivals are: Fred Welcome and Pearl Forepaugh, aerialists; Chas. Reynard, comedian; James Dashington, contortionist. Prof. Gilliam has also joined, and will break ten head of trick ponies for the show. A. J. Sharpley, advance agent, closed two weeks ago, W. W. Potts taking his place. Mr. Potts is doing some great work ahead of the show, billing it as it has never been billed before. Capt. Ament purchased a fine __ft. Pullman car a few days ago, and we will now have our own hotel. We have been playing one day stands this week at increased prices, and the experiment has been a financial winner. We are now headed north into Wisconsin, and will visit all the great lake resorts during the hot months.
New York Clipper, June 30, 1900, p. 395. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Rhoda Royal notes. Seven weeks out and only success has been meted out to the Great Rhoda Royal Shows. Since leaving winter quarters the show has been enlarged in almost every department, until now the title of "Little Show" has been entirely buried, and it is ranking with the larger ones. Opposition and the most uncircuslike weather have been encountered and overcome, and large and small towns alike conquered. On every side press and public have unanimously sounded its praise and complimented on its varied programme and clean ___. No tented exhibition on the road today carries a finer collection of horses or better conditioned. This week twelve perfectly matched dapple greys will arrive for the band wagon. They were purchased by Rhoda Royal from one of the most prominent stock breeders in Pennsylvania. This will give the show over eighty head of blooded stock. Prof. Joseph Berris is making a decided hit with his sixty-three horse act. He has his equine pupils trained to a degree of perfection that is surely wonderful. Prof. Berris is sure to bring the audience with him at every performance. Mme. Royal and her menage act is a feature that is captivating all. Her cake walking horses bring her well merited applause. The Eddy Family, both in aerial work and ground tumbling, are adding to their well established reputation. The youngest member,"Johnny-on-the-Spot," is making not only professional friends but, like the old man himself, personal ones. The Petet Family, in their aerial work, which is clowned by Tom Petet, never fails to catch on, and old and young alike insist upon an encore. The Thompson Boys, rough riders, and the score of other features all go to make up a programme that is making for the Great Rhoda Royal Shows a lasting reputation. Rhoda Royal personally gives everything his attention, and to him and Prof. Berris alone is the success of the show to be credited. Messrs Royal and Berris do not know the meaning of an idle moment, and are the first on and the last off of the lot. William T. Doris superintends all privileges, and the bare mention of his name is a guarantee that his end is well kept up. W. W. Powers, railroad contracting agent, and the only "Tony" Richardson, compete the list of those who are useful and not ornamental. "Tony" Richardson has formed a class of ten who have filed application for membership in the Elks. It is probable they will be admitted next week. Mr. I. V. Strebig, nee Ada Melrose, formerly of "A Hot Old Time" Co., who joined to do concert work, has been too ill since coming on to appear.
Notes from the Skerbeck & Co. One Ring Show. We are now in our eighth week through Wisconsin and Michigan. The show is en route to the Pacific coast. We have a 100ft. round top, with a 50ft. middle piece; a side show top of 50ft., with 30ft. middle piece; a dressing room tent, 40x60, and a horse tent, 30x60. We carry eighteen head of stock, and travel in four cars. We also carry Prof. E. Williams, with his troupe of trained horses and dogs. Roster: Frank Sherbeck, sole owner; Joe Skerbeck, manager; Mary Skerbeck, treasurer; Gus and Alice Skerbeck, Anton Skerbeck, Frankie Skerbeck, Manda Skerbeck, Pearl Skerbeck, Clara Skerbeck, Alice Clark, Myers and Ross, Tina ___, James Murphy, Steve Miller, Geo. Wilson, Geo. Scott, Johnny Fox, Mons. De Bushie, Madame Zola, London Smith. Our famous concert band included: Prof. J. A. Ritzman, leader; Chas Meyers, Robinson, Chas. Luckey, G. Thomas, Joe ___, Fritz Meyers, Joe ___, Geo. Krone, Ernest Thrams, B. Thrams, N. Thrams, James Myers, J. A. Lane, Gus Skerbeck, Geo. Hartman, J. Nelson. James Stone, boss canvas man; Emet Parmeter, boss hostler; Chas. Nelson, boss property man. Our advance is doing good work under C. Baldwin.
Roster of Sig. Sautelle's Circus advance No. 1: Harry F. Curtis, general agent; C. J. Devlin, boss bill poster; H. E. Kuhns, lithographer; Ed. Gray, banners and programmes; J. C. Mitchell, Geo. Sullivan, H. E. Griswald and J. J. Mahoney. No. 2, Earl Peck and Geo. ___.
Mannie Forepaugh writes us as follows: "I wish you would kindly contradict the statement that I wanted to drive sixteen horses in a chariot with the W. H. Gillmeyer Show. Owing to the show not having ring stock I gave two weeks' notice and closed."
Austin & Bechter have secured the privileges with Hargreaves' Big Railroad Shows. They have just added a 65ft. sleeper to the show, making it five cars. They had a bad fire on Saturday night, June 16. The cook house wagon and contents caught fire, burning everything.
Notes from Mitchell's Big Pavilion Show. West Virginia is the territory now invaded by the show, and the natives pronounce it the best twenty-five cent show they have seen. Business has been phenomenal for the past seven weeks. Everybody is happy, and the Clipper and salary day, with the man in white, make regular weekly calls. The roster now stands as follows: W. L. Mitchell, sole proprietor and manager; Boyd Mitchell, treasurer; Doc Mitchell, general superintendent; C. H. Green, boss canvas man, with ten assistants . . . H. L. Gordon, in charge of advance brigade. The horse tent is filled with the finest stock that could be procured, and is being increased. The performers are . . . Mitchell and Birmingham, double traps; the Lowder Trio, in songs and dances; Lloyd Merrill, barrel kicker; Ray Hillman, wire walker. The Sisters Lowther are pleasing with their banjo juggling. . . . Will Birmingham is meeting with big success with his aerial work and breakaway finish. . . . The Lowther Family orchestra furnishes the music under the big top, and Happy Jack Lowther heads the outside demonstration. Out of seven weeks out we have had three weeks of almost continuous rain, but have lost only one night. The weather has now turned out beautiful, and we have hard work to take care of the increase in attendance.
Notes from the J. W. Goodrich Mammoth Shows. This finds us in our second week in New Jersey, back in our old territory, playing to packed houses every performance. Everything is running smoothly with the show. Manager Goodrich added two more horses to his hack wagon, making a better display on parade. Norton and ___ have joined to do their breadaway ladders, also their double speciality in concert. Jno. Russell and Wm. Neidhart are being featured in their strong and barrell jumping act. Master Lawrence, our contortionist, has added a perch pole act, and J. W. Walters and Billy Goldsworth have joined the band forces, making our band of ten pieces one of the best on the road. The band is under the direction of J. A. Hoffman, and is being featured in concert, making a hit wherever we show. . . .
Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Circus. We opened at Linesville, Pa., May 7, to big business, and continue to play to the same every night. Our show is larger and better than ever. We now have a 75 round top, seating capacity 1,000, fourteen head of horses, seven wagons and two advance wagons. Our trained dogs are a feature. We have twenty-one street curs, that do one hundred and nine different tricks. Chas. W. McClintock joined June 8, at Bethlehem, to do the contracting. Roster of company: A. F. Tuttle, proprietor; Mrs. A. F. Tuttle, manager; Chas. W. McClintock, contracting agent; Carl Geyer, bill poster; Harry Howell, programmer; Prof. Chas. McBride, leader of orchestra; Ed. and Nellie Thardo, knife and battle axe throwers; John Jenkins, black face comedian; Harry Oberfelt, slack wire; Jack and Jennie Troy, skets; Leonzo and Troy, human pythons; Mons. Colby, juggler; George Riley, boss canvas man. Ed Thardo is making quite a hit with his trick donkey, Radix. We travel by wagon and stop at hotels. We have seven canvas men and drivers. The white man walks every Sunday . . . We have been out six weeks, and haven't had a losing night.
Roster of Gollmar Bros.' Leading Shows of the World advance: Fred C. Gollmar, general agent and manager of advance; Dick Hunter, contractor; Ed. Jamison, advertising agetn; Melvin Smith, in charge of No. 1 brigade . . . billposters, Mel. Smith, Frank Brusson, __ Holland, Smith Lee, Charles Corson, Frank Billings and Wm. Saxton; Frank Jones, lithographer; H. Sylvester, official programmer.
Roster of the Tayor Shows' advance wagon No. 1: Thos. Alton, press agent; H. H. Graham, boss bill poster; Ara Morris, D. S. Perry, ___, Otto Windell, Ray Mills, lithographers; B. W. Turk, programmer; Clarence Downey, in charge of advance; Thos. Alton and F. A. Seymour, in charge of wagon No. 2, with four men.
Dan O'Brien and wife (known as Nettie Collins) have returned from Rio Janiero, Brazil, South America, where they have been performing with Carlo's Circus.
New York Clipper, July 7, 1900, p. 417. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Van Amburg & Gallagher's Combined All Feature Shows. We are having ideal circus weather, and enjoying the beautiful climate of the central New York lakes. Manager Gallagher has returned from this two week's prospecting tour, and reports everything bright in advance. During is tour he visited seven shows, circus and "Uncle Toms." The Barkers, aerialists, joined at Naples, N.Y., June 18, and the Simpson, carrying perch, joined at Pen Yan, 22. Mr. Gallagher visited the Wallace Shows at Elmira, N.Y., June __, with a view to purchasing a performing elephant. Wallace and Van Amburg & Gallagher are a little apart in price at this writing, but before the next issue of the Clipper we will have the elephant in, which will add greatly to our already strong show. The circus will close Sept. 20, and Russell's Comedians, of which Messrs. Van Amburg & Gallagher are sole owners, will open the season.
Sells & Gray Circus notes. Our business in Kentucky and Tennessee has been good, and we have had plenty of rain. Twelve fine horses were received last week, and on July 3 we receive an elephant and two camels and a new flat car. Homer and Leslie, and St. George and Wilton, acrobats and clowns, joined June 26. Frank Leslie is doing his rube speciality in the parade.
Notes from Goodrich's Mammoth Shows. Our first season as a railroad show is proving highly successful. We are now in New Jersey, and our business is only limited by the capacity of the canvas. Very few changes have been made since the opening at Weston, W. Va. Art L. Selby, Mrs. C. A. Clymer and Edna Clymer have closed their repertory and have joined for the season, making their sixth season with the show. Mr. Selby is doing the contracting, Mrs. Clymer has the privileges and Miss Edna is featured in the concert. Mr. Selby has about finished his new electrical novelty, and, with the assistance of Miss Clymer, will produce this coming season, "Jeane De Arc." It will be something entirely new in electric and calcium effects. Master Clifton Goodrich, who was badly scalded recently, is slowly recovering. The executive staff of the company is as follows: Jas. W. Goodrich, manager; Art L. Selby, railroad contractor; Harry W. Cole, local contractor and press representative; John Hoffman, musical director; Geo. Rexford, amusement director; Mrs. C. A. Clymer, privileges, and Miss Edna W. Clymer, treasurer.
The Lewis Trio, acrobats and jumpers, will join the Robinson Circus, after playing a season of parks.
Notes from the Stewart Family Big 10 and 20 Cent Shows. We opened at Fort Wayne, Ind., April 30, to the capacity of our tents; then made four weeks in Ohio, in mud and heavy rain. Then we went back into Indiana to work the oil country, where we turned people away quite a number of times. Now we are back in Ohio again and playing to good business. We are expecting our new 60x90ft. tent in a few days, and a new set of bunting flags for the side and quarter poles. We have added two more horses and another wagon. There are twenty-two people with the show, twelve horses and five wagons. Mrs. Cap. Stewart will join the show at Chicasaw, June 30, to take charge of the ticket wagon and fix the envelopes Sunday mornings. . . .
Robt. J. Mercer closed his engagement with Cullins Bros.' Circus, as contracting agent, June 23, at Broken Bow, Neb.
New York Clipper, July 14, 1900, p. 433. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Whitney's Big One Ring Shows. We are in our tenth week out and still doing banner business. At ___ and Union City, Mich., the seats were all taken at 7:30, and at 8:15, when the show opened, performrs had to force their way from the dressing rooms to the ring, so dense was the crowd. The band gave up their stand, and our elevated stage and ring band was packed. We are carrying the best show we have had for years, and nver fail to please. Our concert band makes a daily hit with their street concerts. We hae just added a new feature, the Irvings (Geo. and Esther) to do their sensational flying return and double traps. Everybody is happy and the man in white and the old reliable perambulates every week.
Chas. W. McClintock is at his home in McKeesport, Pa., having closed as contracting agent with Tuttle's Olympic Show.
John Jenkins, Harry Oberfelt and Mons. Colby have closed with Tuttle's Olympic Show.
Chas. Hammond, who has been connected with the Forepaugh-Sells Bros. Circus the last five seasons, and was doing the lithographing checking up the last two seasons, resigned his position at Rock Island, Ill., and has gone to his home, Cambridge, O., to look after his bill posting business, in that city. John Harper, on car No. 2, took Mr. Hammond's place and is now doing the work.
Roster of car No. 1 of the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Shows. ___, manager; Tom Connors, in charge of paper; Harry Johnson, D. E. Morgan, J. Downey, lithographers; ___ and B. Fallon, lithographer boards; Matt Smith, programmer; Geo. Lawson, P. Connors, Geo. Tinkham, ___, C. Hyre, J. Miller, __ Seymour, W. Perreault, John Sharp, L. C. Mason, C. Holmes, bill posters, and Peter Hurst, in charge of paste room.
Frank Zelmo is in the Southwest, making parachute jumps.
Notes from Gollmar Bros.' Show. Business is fine and the show gives great satisfaction. Wertz and Adair, acrobats, and Mlle. Adair, juggler and wire walker, joined June 23. We have two acts going all through the performance.
New York Clipper, July 21, 1900, p. 465. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The B. B. & H. Circus, Dog and Pony Show is being well received along the line. At Plymouth, Wis., we packed the tent and had much trouble in keeping the crowd out of the ring. John Zimmer had hs nose partially bitten off by a dog purchased for training purposes. The dog was shot, and Mr. Zimmer is at St. Vincent's Hospital, Green Bay, Wis. Our band, with their fine repertory of music and novel uniforms, receive much praise along the line of parade. New uniforms of white duck and gold braid for the evening serenade in front of the tent will be received in a few days. We are now carrying seventy-eight people, twelve wagons and thirty head of horses. The ghost makes his appearance every Saturday, after the evening performance. The members, with the exception of Mr.Zimmer, whom we miss much, are all well contended and are looking forward to a long and prosperous season.
Notes from Hall, Long & Eldon's Consolidated Shows. Our business through Southern Michigan has been phenomenal, and so far we have not missed a performance through rain or storm. . . .
Ferari's Anglo-American Trained Wild Animal Show opened at Corning, N.Y., Street Fair, week of June 4, to good business. It has a $10,000 electric illuminated front entrance and eight cages of wild animals, eighteen lions, six lady and gentlemen trainers, and travel on our own special railroad cars. Roster: Jos. Ferari, general manager and director; T. J. Hurd, assistant lecturer and announcer; Capt. Grant's talking horse, Joe ___, lion trainer, with his two lions, Brutus and Spitfire, in the sensational act, "The Lion Hunt, Chase and Capture"; Madame Louise, five pyramid lions; Mlle. Almetia, reptiel queen; Baby Boots, snake enchantress; Col. Woods, animal trainer; Chas. ___, head canvas man; Chas. Gordon, charge of animals; Walter Tenny, hostler; Peter ___, with his performing bear, Big Frank; Happy Hi Hubbard, the human megaphone, town crier, ticket seller and treasurer.
Brown's Grand Sensation and Indoor Circus notes. C. C. Brown, proprietor; A. P. Le Craft, business manager; Fred T. Humes, managers; Burton and De Almo, musical sketch; ___ Bros., horizontal bars, May Francis, song and dance; Rose Lewis, trapeze, La Clede and Raymond, "On the Links"; Prof. May's Dog Circus; Humes and Clayton, acrobats, and Mr. Humes does principal clown. We have our new band and parade wagons all finished. We play indoors, and give an opera house circus. Our band is under the leadership of Prof. Mangold, with twelve pieces.
Notes from Geo. W. Hall's Circus and Menagerie. We close our season on Aug. 1, to commence our Fall season of street fairs and carnivals. Our season so far has been financially a success, the S. R. O. sign being displayed four nights out of a week all through the lumber country in Wisconsin. . . .
Notes from the Ely's Combined Circus and Museum. We are touring the central and northern parts of Illinois, and playing to packed houses nightly. On our last Thursday stand at Shirley, July 11, the team on the lion cage got frightened and ran away, upsetting the cage on a steep embankment. The ___ lions got away. Two were soon recaptured, but one remained at large for over five hours. After doing considerable damage and creating much excitement our manager, G. S. Ely, lassoed it. The cage was soon repaired and traffic resumed.
John H. Sparks, proprietor of the Sparks Show, was at his home, East Brady, last week, on business connected with the show. Mr. Sparks will lay off at his home for a rest, the first time in many years. Chas. Sparks will look after the show.
New York Clipper, July 28, 1900, p. 476. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Mitchell Big Pavilion Show. Success unprecedented still crowns the efforts of the Mitchell Show to please the public. The glorious Fourth of July was passed at Fairview, West Va., where the lot was shared with the civic Order of Maccabees, who had a _ft. round top pitched within a few feet of our fine spread of canvas, the entire combined showing presenting an appearance that would cause one to think it was the outfit of one of the "big shows." Thousands of people were in town, and of course we turned 'em away. The attractions presented by the Order of Maccabees and our show worked in such good harmony that, upon the night of the fifth, our closing night, the Maccabees attended in a body, and a special program was arranged for the occasion. Business continues at high water mar, and speaking of high water brings to mind an incident that came very near proving a serious thing in a recent trip from Piney Fork to Pine Grove. The heavy rain of the two days before had swollen the streams to the danger point, and we were warned not to attempt to ford the river. Still, being anxious to make the next stand, we pushed on. At a ford where two creeks meet was encountered the most danger. All got over without accident until the arrival of the carriage containing Chic Kehoe, Ida Rainer and Will Birmingham. They had nearly crossed when they struck a "quicksand" hole, and the team began to sink. In an instant the water was over the seats of the carriage and the people in water knee deep. By much persuasion from the driver the team made an extra efford, and, though being carried down stream, managed to effect a landing, with no damage done outside of that caused by the performers clothing getting wet. Still the experience and narrow escape is one they do not care to repeat. Everyone with the show is well, and all have commenced banking the "long green," which comes regularly, and they are all trying to decide whether to invest in oil wells, farms or mining stock. . . .
Tony Richardson writes from the Rhoda Royal Shows as follows: "Business on the season has been a winner, and many times the canvas has been taxed to its capacity. At Hastings, Pa., last week, our tableaux wagon and the snake den were ditched, owing to a defective frog switch, which caused the downfall of those wagons. The railroad ordered them sent to Altoona shops for repairs. Kennedy and Williams joined for concert work last week. Mike Welch of Welch Bros.' Circus, was our guest Saturday. I was called home from Ebensburg, Pa., by the sudden death of my father at Ashtabula, O. Mrs. Bertis and Isabel joined us July 4."
Louis' Crescent Show. We are still in the land of the living. We did not make a "barrel" of money at the beginning, but considered ourselves fortunate to keep our heads above water and the disappointment in the band we had engaged. We are striving to leave a good impression with the public.
Ely's Combined Shows. We opened our season April _, making eleven weeks of continued success, with only one blow down, at Elkhart, Ill., when two canvas men were badly hurt. We carry in all twenty-seven, with a band of fourteen pieces, under the direction of Walter Scott. New additions: Walter Scott, Mrs. Bessie Scott, Wm. Mitchell and John Sauer. The Old Reliable reaches us every Sunday, and the man in white every Monday.
Roster of the Lemen Bros. Circus advertising car No. 1 is as follows: Chas. Ellis, manager and press agent; Chas. ___, charge of paper; Ed. Hyre, lithographer; C. Hoyt, W. R. Davis, W. Ross, C. Yelvington . . . and W. E. Brown, billposters. The show is doing a splendid business in Canada and consequently everything is "all serene."
Whitney Show notes. We are playing to good business, notwithstanding the bad rains we have had since July 3. The Irvings, aerialists, visited the show at Constantine, Mich. Our band is a drawing card with the show.
Notes from Merchant's American Railroad Shows (W. Black, manager). We are now in our twelfth week and business has been great. Our week's engagement at Point Gratiot, Dunkirk, was the best we have had; people wer turned away at every performance. A few changes have been made and the show is greatly strengthened. The advance is now in charge of Chas. Thomas, with two assistants, and judging by the crowds who are waiting at the depots to see the show pull in, he must be telling them how it happened. Gus ___ now has charge of the band. Fred, the educated horse, still continues to please everyone. We close our season about the middle of September, in order to start rehearsals for Mr. Black's big repertory company, which opens Oct. _, the feature of which will be a genuine Inidan band of fifteen pieces. Chas. Thomas, who has charge of the routing, has eighteen weeks booked in cities we have played this summer. The printing is all special. We will carry a carload of special scenery and travel in our own car.
Edna Snow informs us that her mother, Annie Carroll, whose whereabouts she seeks, was mentioned in the will of the late Mary N. Carroll, widow of Barney Carroll, who died May __, at her home in Westchester, N.Y., and was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery.
Dave Castello (Laughlin), equestrian, now in business in Henderson, N.C., was in town July __. He was called home Tuesday by the sudden illness of two of his children.
Notes from Capt. W. D. Ament's Big City Show. We have just concluded a thirty days' trip through Wisconsin, and everyone in the company is pleased to think we are out of it and back in Illinois once more. The trip was accompanied by cyclones, blow downs, runaways and accidents nearly every day. The State is suffering from a long drought, and business was the worst we ever experienced. Capt. Ament saw it was useless to continue further in the state, and expect to make money, so the agent was called back on short notice, and the stands ahead cancelled, and the show made a 250 mile jump into Illinois. At our first stand in this state we turned people away by hundreds after every inch of seating and standing room was taken. Our little show this season is the strongest it has ever been. Prof. Gilliam, who joined the show a few weeks ago, introduced two new pony acts July 18. The ponies were quite a surprise, and made a very favorable impression. Our new Pullman palace car arrived two weeks ago, and it is a thing of beauty. Capt. Ament made a flying trip home a few weeks ago to close the deal for his new opera house in Muscatine, which will be ready to open about Dec. 1. He is having winter quarters built in connection for the circus, and a beautiful suite of rooms to live in. We are now headed South, and will probably not close before Christmas. We laid over in Chicago Sunday, and everybody had a chance to see the city. We received a pleasant visit from J. H. La Pearl while playing Oshkosh, Wis. Everyone is well, and we look for a long and prosperous season.
Wm. De Mott, equestrian, sailed for Hamburg, Ger., July 21.
Chas. O'Brien, boss canvas man with Welsh Bros.' Show, will hereafter work as Prof. Carl Bryan, with Miss Medley, aeronaut.
Philip W. Rand, for six years a member of the California Trio Co., died June 20, in San Francisco, Cal., from consumption. Mr. Rand was born in Holyoke, Mass., thirty years ago. His first appearance in the show business was with the Adam Forepaugh Show. The next season he was with the Barnes Co. Show, and then he joined Sells Bros.' His last engagement was with "The Black Crook" Co., which was under the management of Strong & Welty. His wife, mother and a brother, Jack Rand, of Rand and Byron, survive him. The funeral took place June 23, and it was attended by many members of the profession in San Francisco. The floral tributes were numerous.
New York Clipper, August 11, 1900, pp. 525, 527. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Great Rhoda Royal Show notes. We have been out thirteen weeks trhough Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Long Island. . . . "a big little show," with eighty-five head of horses and ponies (the finest stock on the road). One hundred and twenty-six people are fed daily at the "Hotel De Royal." Rhoda Royal and Joe Berris, bosses and managers; J. V. Strebig, general contracting agent; John Henry Rice, local contracting agent; Dan McKenzie, in charge of No. 1 car; Warrne Hines, programmer; W. W. Poweres, treasurer; Tony Richardson, press agent; W. J. Doris, manager of privileges; Henry Hobbles (Dutch Henry), boss canvas man; James Clows, boss hostler; W. St. Auburn, steward; Harry Anderson, assistant superintendent; L. J. Chamberlain, band master; Bud Horn, calliope player; Arthur Spencer, boss animal man; Harry Howard, side show oragot; John Keenan, outside ticket man; the Six Eddys, Petitt Family, Madam and Rhoda Royal, Serpento, Four Ashes, Thompson Boys and Joe Berris, in his sixty-three horse act. The concert, with Randall and Crandall, Ashes and Eddys, produce a pleasing entertainment. Side show: ___ and Olga, Capt. De Coursey, Fatima, ___, Pap and O'Ney, make up a list that entertains when Bill Doris "snakes" the people. John Kersell, Mr. Collier and several professionals paid us a visit at Huntington. The "Governer" is expected home the middle of August. Prof. St. John, in high wire, sets the people wild.
Notes from the Gus Sun Railroad Shows. We closed our circus season July 21, and are now in Milton, Pa., putting on the finishing touches to the big minstrel show. Our circus season only extended over a period of eight weeks, but the business was the largest ever done by a two car show. Seldom a night passed that we did not turn away from two to five hundred people, and even in the rain our top was always full. Our genial agent, Fred D. Fowler, and his corps of advance people covered everything in sight. The contracting done by Mr. Fowler was gilt edged. Next year, during the summer months, Mr. Sun will put out a five car circus, with a 90ft. round top and two 40ft. middle pieces. We will carry about seventy-five people, making the show the strongest twenty-five cent circus ever seen in America.
George W. McNutt, chief of detectives of Des Moines, Ia., for the past ten years, has taken charge of the detective department with the Great Wallace Shows.
C. A. Hibbard, swinging wire performer and novelty tramp juggler, is now in his eleventh week and is still meeting with success, with Reno's Great Allied Shows. He has introduced several new tricks in tramp juggling.
Roster of advance car No. 1 of the Great Wallace Shows. W. Musgat, manager; F. O. Rossman, in charge of paper; James Kelly, chief lithographer; Edgar Price and Harry Croll, assistants; ___ bill posters, Tim Hagerty . . . Gilsey Abrams, W. E. Clark, Jeff Caspers, Thomas Foster, H. White, Eugene Bateman, Homer Ingersoll, Chas. Stephenson, Ralph Case, Fatty Eberhardt, ___ and Walter Brown, paste maker and porter. Thos. Foster met with a very serious accident in Aurora, Ill., June 28. While doing the top deck of a platform decker he made a misstep and fell to the ground, twelve feet below, and broke both arms. Mr. Franklin was notified, and at once took charge of him, sending him to his home in Piketon, O., where he is with his wife and mother, getting along very ___, and expecting to join the show again about the middle of August.
Notes from Reno's Oriental Shows and Trained Animal Exhibition. We are now in our fourteenth week of uninterrupted sucess. We are gradually working eastward. The season so far has been a grand success, not an accident or blow down. We carry forty head of stock, eighteen wagons and forty people all told. Our roster in the dressing room embraces: the Marvelous Gliddens, the Three Martinete, Clarence Hibbard, Chas. Arnold, Dennis Dolan, Kelman and Fraser, Little Emily, Prof. Reno, Arthur Humeston, Auline ___, and La Basco and Searles.
Wm. Bennett (W. E. Julian), tumbler and acrobat, was crushed to death July 2d, at Aberdeen, S. Dak., by a circus train belonging to the Campbell Bros., of which show he was a member. He had been in the profession for several years. His wife, three adopted children (also professionals), two brothers and three sisters survive him. The remains were taken charge of by the Knights of Pythias, of Aberdeen, and sent to his home in Havana, Ill., where the interment occurred 30.
New York Clipper, August 18, 1900, p. 546. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Victoria, B. C., sent out this press dispatch Aug. 5: "According to advices brought by steamer Argyll, while the siege of Tientsin was in progress the American aggregation known as Warren's Circus was playing and drawing big crowds. The circus was at Taka when the first Russian contingent went up to Tientsin and the march was made easy for the Cossack soldiers, who piled into the band wagon and on top of the animal wagons and tableau. With the artillery and wagons of the Russians and the circus paraphernalia, the parade is described in the Eastern press as one of the most unique ever seen. The aggregation arrived at Tientsin early in June and on 14 the big tent was put up and the show began. Two days later, according to ___, a refugee who has reached Shanghai from Tientsin, the manager, Mr. Plueffer, was shot and killed. He was struck by a stray missile."
From Asa Barker's Big 10 and 20c Show: This is our tenth week and business has been good. We have had fine weather and no bad luck except at Triumph, Ill., where a heavy wind storm struck us, ripping the big top and carrying the cook tent across the lot. At the time the large tent was filled to its capacity. The show had just reached the finale when the storm came. The show is moving along smoothly, and every one is well. Albert Fischer, baritone and violinist, who recently graduated at the Notre Dame Conservatory of Music, has joined us, and has taken charge of the band and orchestra. We are still on our old favorite route.
Justice ___ gave judgement in favorite of the Lavernes, aerialists, for the some of $190 and costs against Nettie Black, proprietress of the Merchants American Railroad Show, at Greenville, Pa., Aug. _.
Leo Blondin was compelled to close with the Walter J. McDonald Shows on account of sickness.
Arthur Borelly [sic?] has signed with Sells & Gray as singing and talking clown.
New York Clipper, September 1, 1900, p. 589. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
J. J. Jay, for several years associated with the Sells Bros. Circus, committed suicide Aug. 4, by shooting himself in the right temple. He was for three seasons general agent of ___, Burke & Randall's Shows. His last engagement was with Field's & Hanson's Minstrels, as agent. He leaves a widow and one son, who live at Marion, O.
New York Clipper, September 8, 1900, p. 611. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Robinson echos. On Sunday lasat, at Wichita, Kan., the Elks Lodge gave us an open door session and banquet. John G. Robinson and his attaches, who are Elks, together with a number of others, were guests, and were royally entertained. As a return compliment Mr. Robinson invited the lodge to see our performance on Monday evening. They attended some one hundred strong, and formed a part of a turn away house. The business at both performances was enormous - standing room at a premium. Our business up to this, the seventeeth week, has been excellent, Kansas turning splendidly for us.
The Musical Brennans write: "We are this season with Bonheur Bros.' New Golden Allied Shows, doing our musical act and other specialties. . . .
Notes from the Geo. W. Ely Show. We are now playing in the northwestern part of the state of Illinois, and the weather has been fine. The result was packed houses for us every night. We will start South in a few days, and will ship from St. Louis Oct. 20 for Louisiana. The show is said by everyone to be the best and most complete wagon show on the road. Our military band of fourteen pieces is setting the natives wild, and is a feature of any show. Our leader, Prof. Adolph Shank, is highly praised for his excellent work. Our street parade is something to be proud of, as it is entirely original and novel. M. F. Ezzell, our hustling agent, is doding good work in front, with four assistants; this making Ezzell's third season with us. Mrs. Ely was agreeably surprised a few days ago by having her brother pay her a visit, as neither had seen the other for over sixteen years.
Hall, Long & Eldon's Consolidated Shows closed the season at Eaton, Ind., Aug. 18. The show will next season be known as Hall & Long's Consolidated Shows, and will be greatly enlarged, with a brand new outfit. Harris Eldon will again manage his repertory company during the winter season, and next summer will take out a dog and pony show under canvas. The Four Salvinis, English acrobats, play engagements over the Burt circuit. Harry Helms will be under the management of A. A. Jack, with his magic entertainment. Rawls, the contortionist, will rest at home before filling eastern dates. . . . Ernest Frost joins Haverly's Minstrels. Myron Frost joined Wm. Wests' Minstrels. The Fillmores will play dates. . . . Frank Long is well remembered by many of his friends in the profession, of the team of Long and Edwards, trapeze act. He will take out a hall show for the winter season. Most all of our people have been re-engaged for next season. Taking it all in all our season's business has been uniformly good.
Mitchell's Big Pavilion Show notes. We closed a season of seventeen weeks Aug. 23, at Clarksburg, W. Va. The season was the most successful the show has ever known, and it will go out next year enlarged to double the present size and with equipment entirely new in every department. Business was big everywhere. It was a rainy season, there being more rainy days than pleasant ones. The big top was blown down twice, but no one was injured. The only other accidents that occurred during the season were the narrow escape from drowning of some of the people while fording a river. A matinee performance was given at Spencer, W. Va., where one hundred and fifty of the inmates of the Spencer Insane Asylum were present in charge of attendants. The show went into winter quarters at Clarksburg. The destination of performers so far as known is as follows: . . . Will Birmingham to London; Ray Phillips, to Chicago; the Lowther Family to Bridgeport; Charlie Green, to New Orleans; the band, to St. Louis, and other to various variety houses. There was one wedding during the season, that of proprietor H. E. Mitchell to Lillie Lowther, leader of orchestra.
Notes from Reno's Oriental Shows. We are now about through with Iowa, and will commence our tour to Illinois Monday, Aug. 28. Our business through southeastern Iowa has been phenomenal. It is a well settled country and the people attend entertainments in crowds. Our tent has been too small to accommodate our audiences on several occasions recently. Our roster: Clarence Hibbard, Chas. Arnold, Kelman and Fraser, Dennis Dolan, Arthur Humeston, Little Emily and Auline, ___, Johnsons and Stokes, Edward Reno, ___ and Billy Glass. Our band is a big success everywhere and keeps every town guessing. Our stock is in excellent condition. We have received some very flattering offers to winter through this section.
Ocean spray from Sig. Sautelle's New Big Shows. The banner of big business continues to proudly wave over these shows, which have yet to make their first losing stand. Expecially profitable have been the summer resort dates, each having proved a veritable mine of weather. Best of all, the shows are establishing an enviable reputation at every stop in the new territory, and a warmly cordial welcome awaits them whenever they revisit this section. Not content with owning "the largest and best equipped circus," Mr. Sautelle is constantly adding to the attractiveness of his show property. His latest purchases have been two well matched pairs of high bred bays and a new phaeton. The latter was built expressly for the personal use of Mr. and Mrs. Sautelle, and is all that time, money and mechanical skill could make it. Several new performers, musicians and concert people have joined preparatory to our long season South. Leon W. Washburn, by whe Mr. Sautelle was once employed as manager of the Washburn side shows, was a guest Thursday, at Atlantic Highlands, of his former employee. . . .
The Great Rhoda Royal Shows. Rhoda Royal and Joseph Berris, lessees and managers; I. V. Strebig, general agent and railway contractor; W. W. Power, treasurer, and charge of ticket wagon; Harry Anderson, contracting agent . . . S. Westhall, programme advertisement solicitor; W. J. Doris, manager of privileges; Jos. Berris, charge of big door; ___, Jess Robinson, front doormen; Mrs. R. Royal, reserved seats . . . Harry Howard, ___, side show orators . . . Fred Mayfield, boss candy stand butcher, with ten assistants . . . L. L. St. John, steward of Hotel Rhoda Royal . . . Geo. Jackson, head waiter, with fourteen assistants . . . Frank Burns, charge of ponies . . . Geo. Spriggs, elephant man . . . Geo. Williams, assistant canvas man, with twenty-five assistants; Geo. Hartman, boss side show, with ten assistants; Frank Grimes, boss chandelier man, with two assistants; Mrs. C. Roberts, wardrobe lady; Tommy Jones, boss wardrobe man; W. J. King, boss property man, with ten assistanat. Performers in big show: Prof. Berris, equestrian director; Madame and Rhoda Royal, double fashionable menage act; Prof. Berris, sixty-three horse act . . . Albert and Ray thompson, burlesque riding mules; the Four Comical Ashes, grotesque acrobats; Bumps, riding pony; Serpenta, sensational contortionist . . . Eddy Family, acrobats; Alf. Thompson's singign donkey, Snowball; Mlle. Petit, bounding wire; Prof. Berris, school of trained ponies, ten in number; Madam Royal, tandem cake-walking Arabian thoroughbreds; Prof. Showers, clown band; the Four Alberts, breakaway ladders; Felix Sisters, flying traps . . . Hippodrome: lady riders - Marie Marston, Flora Mayhue, Birdie Franklin; jockeys and Roman riders - C. St. John, Oscar Fisher, ___, Wm. Harebeck, Jas. Herbert, ___; Capt. W. C. Sharp, with his detachment of Roosevelt Rough Riders, Capt. W. C. Sharp, Lieut. Harrington, Sergt. D. W. Winslow, Corporal F. Vetter; troopers: Wm. White, Leon Seaman, L. C. Leith, ___, Joseph Marshall, E. Dempsey . . . John R. Adams, Billy Elliott. Side show and concert people: Spaff Hyman, magic; Fatima, mind reader; Helena, snake enchantress; La Belle Latina, Oriental dancing girl; Prof. John King, fire king; Capt. De Coursey, tattooed man; Mlle. Alvena, trained cockatoos; Christin, fortune teller; Randall and Crandall, sketch team; McPherson and McPherson, sketch team . . . Music: Prof. Chamberlain's big show band, sixteen in number . . . calipoe, Bud Horn. The first season of the Great Rhoda Royal Shows opened in Geneva, O., April 28, and up to the present writing has enjoyed a most prosperous season. Although a new show, both in name, stock and paraphernalia, it has been most enthusiastically received, and the press and public have been unanimous in pronouncing it own of the best shows on the road. We are now enjoying the New England States, where the name Rhoda Royal is now a household word, and where business is at the top notch. Both in Northhampton and Holyoke, last week, hundreds were unable to gain admittance, and the ticket wagon was ordered closed at 8 o'clock . . .
New York Clipper, September 22, 1900, p. 663. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Jas. W. Goodrich Mammoth Wagon Shows. After laying off at the winter quarter for two weeks, reorganizing, we opened Aug. 19, at Seymour, Ct. Roster: Jas. W. Goodrich, proprietor and manager; Alf Southey, treasurer; G. Hoffman, secretary; Jack Russell, equestrian director; Joe Horner, charge of concert; Tomm Jerome, reserved seats; J. J. Jerome, ring master . . . Performers: Two Brothers Jerome, acrobats and perch; Wilson and ___, triple bars; Joe Horner, principal talking and singing clown; John Russell, trained giraffe; Mons. Merrill, contortionist and rings; Paul Merrill, single trapes . . . Jas. W. Goodrich, manege horse Dan and talking pony ___; Horner, Russell and Merrill, clowns.
Mrs. Alex A. Lowande writes from her house in this city: "A fire took place in our apartments while my husband is in the hospital, and half of our things were lost, including all of our clothing."
New York Clipper, October 6, 1900, p. 703. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Walter L. Main, the well and favorably known circus manager, returned from an all summer tour of Europe recently, having traveled all over Great Britain and the continent, solely on pleasure bent. . . . During his stay in New York he was chaperoned by general agent Isaac V. Strebig, of the Rhoda Royal Show, and the twain visited all points of interest in the city and vicinity. . . . Mr. Main has returned to Geneva, O., where he will enjoy a period of rest and quiet after his summer of pleasure seeking.
James H. Brown wrote from Havanna, Cuba, under the date of Sept. 18: "Peter W. Barlow, bareback somesault and jockey act rider, who was taken down with yellow fever, has recovered and is again at work on new stock for the coming season with Circo Pubiliones, which will start on or about Nov. 20. Mr. Barlow has been ___ many seasons on and off and is well liked here by show going people. Show business in Havana the past two months has been very dull."
. . . Sept. 12, Tony Lowande has closed a season of nine months in Cuba and has purchased a farm of one hundred and five acres at Calabazar, twenty minutes' ride from Havana. The necessary buildings for storing the show are complete. Thirty-five head of horses and thirty-two oxen comprises stock with the company. . . .
Circus in the Orient. W. Plueger wrote the Clipper from Shanghai, China, under date of July 27, as follows: ". . . . As manager of Warren's Circus, that has for years, and still is, annually playing India, Burmah, Ceylon, Java, Malaysia, Cochin China, the Philippines, China and Japan . . . the Far East circus - The showmen adventurous enough to hazard stock and capital of any magnitude to the vast, distant, benighted Orient have been few indeed. Wilson's, Chiarini's, Abel's, Williston's, Wirth's, Harmston's and Warren's comprise all that have so far visited in the past or present, and braved the risks and vicissitudes entailed. The list is short and their history is brief. Each could a tale unforld coincident with the other. It only varies in particulars of time and place, if, in a densely populated, compact, short distace America or England, where shows are now conducted on firm, solid, conservative business methods, it still remains the most precarious and unstable business of any, now much more precarious it is among semi-civilized nations, separated by thousands (not hundreds) of miles, must be plain to the most casual reader. Wilson's (American) Circus was the first of any pretensions to dawn on the East. It lived while luck continued to live with it. When that deserted it, it dissolved as quickly as mist. For pluck is as imperative as luck in conducting a show here. Chiarini made the next event, and, like his predecessor, soon found himself crushed by the weight of excessive expenses. Both lived only long enough to prove the fallacy of plunging too big an attraction on unknown fields without approximating its prospects and proportion expenses accordingly. Success here depends upon the accuracy of adjusting expenses to receipts, which can only be done after a long personal experience. Inexperience seals the fate here quicker, as it has with these two in the past, as it must inevitably in the future. The penalty of impetuous ventures is failure. Abel's, Williston's and Wirth's, of smaller class for that reason lived longer, to smaller failure. Finally, Harmston's, profiting by them, launched a show more cautiously, and on a wiser, sounder basis, conducted expenses consistent with earnings, and survives today, after repeated tours. However, latterly Warren's Circus, more enterprising, by good tact has outrivaled it and become the leading amusement enterprise of the Orient - an established institution, annually looked for everywhere, like a "Glorious Fourth" celebration. It owes its success as much to careful, judicious management, routing and advertising as to its admirable organization. During the most formidable reverses within the past two years the management has proved itself invincible. We opened in Manila four days before the insurgent war, within one-half mile of the first pitched battle, and had our tents perforated by bullets like a sieve, stock comandeered, and paraphernalia burnt. Within two months we reorganized in London, and, after such little incidental misfortunes as struggling through the famine in India, a destructive fire in Hindoostan, shipwreck in the Malacca Straits, and plague in Hong Kong, we contrived to reach Tientain three days before the siege, where the allied forces quickly appropirated canvas seats, props and all for firewood. Our horses (formerly known as Prof. Bristol's Equescurriculum, touring the leading theatres fourteen years) were comandeered for officers' use, cannon service, or killed for rations, while clowns went on sentry duty around the women and children's refuge, and acrobats turned nurses to the wounded, riders, aerialists and all lined up with Tommy Atkins and Uncle Sam in the face of an incessant and hellish concert of whistling bullets and shrieking shell. But we all came out smiling, with flying colors and congratulations for life, but nothing els; not the show. However, as we have prospered exceedingly, and know how to do so, even in the Orient, we are again on the easy road of prosperity. Less bolder and vigorous shows would easily succumb to discouragement and defeat for less fatalities than we have survived, for we cannot forget that show life here has its roseate advantages and pleasures that fully compensate all misfortune. It is indiscreet to parade, therefore no parades, nor anything less than week stands most for a month or more. To play in one year Shanghai, Hong Kong, Manila, Saigon, Bangkok, Singapore, Soerabaya, Samarang, Batavia, Deli, Penang, Rangoon, Calcutta, Madras, Bombay and Colombo is impossible. Another consideration is that no time is lost in winter quarters. We play all the year round, knowing, after years of experience, the precise season to the week for each centre, and when to avoid it. Moreover, we generally extend performers' contracts to two, three or four years, to mutual satisfaction. Life in the Orient is so seductive, so easy and luxuriously comfortable, that performers once enjoying it are loth ever to leave it. But the way of the advance manager is harder. His has always and everywhere a battle royal. Whatever his native tact, talent, energy, enterprise and experience elsewhere, if he lack the actual experience of Oriental circus "pidgin" he might be better and more usefully employed hoeing corn. To lack this is to doom his show from the start. It is of course impossible to expect him to talk Pekinese in Shanghai, English in Hong Kong, French in Saigon, Malay in Singapore, Dutch in Java, Burmese in Rangoon, Tamilin in Calcutta, Hindustan in Madras, etc., etc. But the veteran, successful Oriental showman knows its equivalent - will know from repeated visits who's who, where to find them; what, where, and when to do the right thing at the right time in the right place. He must know how to suffer and gratify each their own national whims and idiosyncrasies, and how and when and where to reach the right calls of natives in their own vernacular. For they, not the Europeans, are the great factor of success. Not to despise the patronage of the former, the show must be one of a visible - not verbal nature. Natives in general are paupers. This makes cheap prices imperative. To attract multitudes of natives is to succeed, and the show will prosper precisely according to its drawing power for natives. They are the audience to be studied and catered to, at the same time courting the patronage of incidental European casuals and residents as far as consistent - no further. It is fatal to get a European audience at jeopardy of a native crowd. A big show demands a big income, and that big patronage, and this again doubled when prices are halved. Your manager will known, too, the landing, lighter, warfage facilities of each city - or lack of them; and how and when to govern his shipping accordingly. Similarity must he know the season, customes, licenses, lots, hotels, municipal regulations, cartage, railroading, lighting, etc., of each city as a world of its own. In these no two Eastern cities compare. It seems each is conducted on a policy and principal of government to conflict with every other - with the one just left. So diverse are they as if strenuously governed as a contradiction of the other colony. Java will welcome a show eargely on its choicest and most central lots, while it bars a show in every conceivable way from landing. Contrarily, Singapore throws open its customs wide, but bitterly resents and opposes a show anywhere but in a cow yard of a native suburb. And so on ad finitim. A manager must know all these pecularities and how to overcome them by strategy. If experienced, his strategy will prevail where the less experienced would fail altogether, or only parially succeed at great expense. A shrewd, reliable, conscientious manager spells success just as any other does certain failure. Irrespective of the show's merits, he can make or unmake it in the Orient in much less time than in the Occident. For a show here - with a manager - will succeed with amazing rapidity, or vice versa, without one, degenerate quicker."
New York Clipper, October 27, 1900, p. 767. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Gollmar Bros.' Circus and Menagerie noes. We closed our season Oct. 6, at Stoughton, Wis., and it proved to be by far the best season the show has ever had. In all probability this will be our last season on wagons. Performers and musicians have departed to the following points: Wertz and Adair play the Atlantic, Ia., Street Fair; Vic Graham goes to Chicago; Frank Seavey and ___ join the "Si Perkins" Co.; James Fitzgerald and George Parento join the Dan C. Hall Repertory Co., Mr. and Mrs. Harry Brandon go to La Crosse, Wis.; J. G. Norris, Viroqua, Wis. . . . John Rooney and Willis Gollmar go to Baraboo; Otto Weaver to Decatur, Ill. . . . Dick Hunter to Chicago, Basil McHenry to Chicago . . . H. Sylvester goes to New York City . . . Mlle. Adair to Springfield, Ill. Herr Drayton to Chicago . . .
New York Clipper, November 3, 1900, p. 788. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The advance of the Gollmar Bros.' Shows closed Sept. 22, a season of five months. Ed. Jamison goes to Baraboo, Wis.; William Saxton to Lansing, Mich.; Melvin Smith to Baraboo; Clifford Black to Rushville, Ill.; Otto Windale to Creston, Ia.; Chas. Windom to North Platte, Minn.; Frank Brusso to New York City, Ed Melvin to Baraboo, and H. Sylvester to New York City. This has been a very good season; not much rain, but big winds in Nebraska and Minnesota, but on the whole a good season.
The Brobst Trio write: "We closed the season at Imlay City, Oct. 4, with Whitney Circus. Master Stanley was presented with a gold watch and chain by members of the company at Clinton, Mich., Sept. 8, the occasion being his sixth birthday. We are now resting at our home, Pottsville, Pa."
The Hargreaves Show, owned and managed by Thos. Hargreaves, manager of the Grand Opera House, Chester, Pa., closed its season in Philadelphia, Oct. 13. Although the first season of this enterprise, the tour was eminently successful. The roster of the show during the tour was as follows: Thos. Hargreaves, proprietor and manager; C. J. Gregory, general manager; A. L. Selsby, general agent, with eight assistants; Gregory and La Velle, managers of privileges. Performers: the Three Valentines, return act; Three Herbert Bros., brother act and high stilts; Leonard Sisters, aerialists; the Three Nolas, aerialists and Roman ladders; Marvelous Melville, aerialist and leaper; Three Rossi Bros., grotesque act and leapers; Albert Sylvester, contortionist and ring act; St. Julian Bros., horizontal bars, and Gregory and Durell, foot balancers. The trained animal features were specially strong, and included: Prof. Maguire's educated horses, mules and donkeys; Prof. La Velle's school of educated dogs, including three high diving dogs; Dan Rice and his trained pigs and donkeys. La Velle, Ducrow and Chas. Valentine were the principal clowns. The concert was given by Terrill and Senina, musical act; Bessie Durell, balladist; Ed. and Lottie Dwyre, sketch; Edna Clymer, songs and dances; and Chas. Rench and his trick giraffe. Size of canvases: big top, 100ft., with two 50ft. middle pieces; dressing top, 60x30; cook tent, 30x60; horse tent, 30x40. Next season the show will be increased to twice its present size.
The Great Wallace Shows closed a very successful season at Circleville, O., on Tuesday, Oct. 16. Between shows Tuesday evening Capt. B. L. Bowman, side show manager, was presented with a handsome silk umbrella and a solid silver shaving mug. The following inscriptions: "Presented to Capt. B. L. Bowman by side show employes Great Wallace Shows, season 1900." Capt. Bowman acknowledged his appreciation of the gifts in a few well chosen words. The following is a complete roster of the side show: Capt. B. L. Bowman, manager and principal orator; Jack Manley, first assistant; Chas. W. Brasie, second assistant; C. E. Hardwick, third assistant; "Fatty" Marshall, ticket taker and superintendent of door; Prof. Schwab, leader of band, with eight musicians: Prof. Schwab, Frank Herron, C. A. Beattle, Frank Doherty, Jos. Ryan, "Slivers" Kline, Chas. Rote, Harry Gladstone Wilson. The performers: Steven Peters and Martin Zoryea, Turkish musicians; Princess Garmenia and La Belle Trixanna, Oriental dancers; Nena Delmato, snake charmer; Agnes, mind reader; Flo. Roach, living pictures; Emma Meley and Ivy Kelly, descriptive songs; "Topsy" Mitchell, banjo soloist; Julia Alphonzo, fire queen; J. H. Payne, armless wonder; Master Wader Cochran, mental wonder; Lieut. Allen, ventriloquist and Punch; Hommann, magician; Clarence McDowell, "The Sculptor's Dream"; J. J. Rogers, boss canvas man, with seven assistants.
From Walter J. McDonald's Combined Colossal Shows. The show finished its first season Oct. 3, closing at Abilene, Kan., the same town we made our opening, April 21, the same performers closing with the show, with two exceptions, that opened with it. The show did remarkably well, considering the weather, as this was a very wet season in the Western country and the opposition was exceptionally strong, as all the big shows in the country were out here after the wheat money. We added twenty head of stock this summer, making sixty-five head with the show. Our ten horse dapple gray band team was the feature of the parade. The management has purchased all of the late Joe McMahon Show baggage wagons, tableaux, dens, etc., and will the coming season transport the show by rail, using about twelve cars. The show will winter at Abilene, Kan.
Orton Family Show notes. The show is in winter quarters here at Ortonville. A new round house will son be commenced. As soon as completed a routine of practice will be commenced. The show will be quite extensively improved this winter. The show will exhibit undr a 50ft. round top, with one 30ft. middle piece; 30ft. dressing room, 12x16 cook tent, 32x40 horse tent, with twelve head of horses, four shetland ponies, six performing dogs, with about fourteen people all told.
In Lebanon, O., a company has been organized and will put on the road next spring a ten wagon circus. It is to be managed by Capt. C. E. Sausser and will be known as the Four S Syndicate Show, with Sausser, Smithers, Snook & Stewart, proprietors.
The Sig. Sautelle Circus advance closed their season of six months at Goochland, Va., Oct. 20, seven days ahead of the show, with but very few changes. Roster: D. H. Haley, general agent; Tom Burke, boss bill poster; Ed. Troy, Sam C. Whitelaw and Sam Flynn, assistants; John F. Kelley, boss lithographer; Billy Hart, assistant; F. A. Robbins Jr., banner man; Joe Kane, programmer. After the last stand general agent Haley gave the boys a fine spread, and after fixing things together for the show the boys started for their several homes: D. H. Haley for Norwich, N.Y>; Tom Burke for Manchester, N.H.; Sam C. Whitelaw to Akron, O.; Ed. Troy to Bridgeport, Ct. to go into the grocery business for the winer; F. A. Robbins Jr. to New York; Billy Hart to Boston; Jone Kane to Fall River; and Jno. F. Kelley to Pawtucket, R.I. until after election, when he goes as business manager of the Criterion Comedy Co. All the boys pronounced it a pleasant and sociable season, and all departed with best wishes.
Horace Webb closed a successful season Oct. 16, with the Great Wallace Show. He sails Nov. 10 to Havana, Cuba, to fill an engagement with Circo Pubillones.
The members of the Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Side Show presented their manager, Geo. V. Connor, and his wife with a complete silver service, consisting of fifty pieces, as a token of their appreciation for his efforts to please one and all during the season just closed.
Bell and Albion sail Nov. 3 for Germany to joine the Barnum & Bailey Show, to do their acrobatic comedy act.
Notes from Asa Barker's Big 10 and 20 Cent Shows. We have closed with a season of twenty-one weeks, and from the opening to closing we have had but one accident and that was a small cyclone. The boys all smiled when they saw the agent coming back to the show. On our closing night, although being very cold, we played to a packed house, and after the show we all enjoyed an oyster supper. We will organize here in Redmond, Ill., in the spring, with a big show. Mr. and Mrs. Barker will return to their former home, Terre Haute, Ind., where they will rest up for a couple of weeks, and then will start out with their winter show.
Bonheur Bros.' Show notes. The yellow leaf gleaming here and there in the fading green of the forests fringing the streams of the browning plains warns the yellow wagon troupers of the approaching end to the tenting season of 1900. For the most part the season has been an agreeable one to all. An accident occurred at Ness City Oct. 12, in which Nathan L. Irwin nearly lost his life. He started from the show ground with a hugh cosmorama wagon pulled by a big span of greys to go to the fair ground, where the cosmorama was to be exhibited. In passing down the main street, which was crowded with carriages at all the horse racks, the wheels bounded over a crossing and threw Irwin out of the front door of the cosmorama. He fell between the horses, caught hold of the wagon tongue and lost one of the lines in attempting to cling on, while the horses, frightened at the struggling man, broke into a mad run down the street. The man, in a frantic endeavor to stop the team, slipped down partly under the wheels, the front wheel running over the heel of his foot. In pulling on the line that remained in his hand he turned the team toward the long row of vehicles lined up at the horse racks, into which they plunged with a crash, breaking up the carriages and flattening them out like they were made of pasteboard. Back in the cosmorama wagon was Little Sybil Casey Shumway and one of the managers of the show. The latter sprang out over the near horse and caught him by the reins and got mixed up in the general assortment of torn up carriages and snorting and rearing horses, and with assistance that immediately came further disaster was averted. The owners of the broken up carriages were promptly settled with, and the cosmorama moved on. "Shorty" Irwin was badly injured and put under the doctor's care, but he is still with the show and is able to drive a team. "Shorty" went out with the show at the beginning and will go into quarters with it. The Brennans, Maude and Edward, are still making good with their musical specialties, to which they added in July aluminum musical chimes. Their sleigh bell pugilistic encounters elicit encores at every performance. The Keetch Family, E. H., Lyda and "Little Sybil" are favorites everywhere, and their versatile performances take their mead of praise wherever they appear. Littly Sybil has a picture privilege, and the numerous photos of her several acts are greatly in demand. All the minor performances are strictly of the best class. The Bonheur picture machine, carrying 1,000ft. of film for a single scene, enraptures the entire audience with its revelations a-field and a-far. J. R. Bonheur is engaged on his new lecture and marvelous scenic exposition of the late Chinese war, which will have animated reproductions of the naval battles in which Americans took part, and is having new ideas embodied in mechanical novelties that will again surprise the innumerable hosts that always flock to the Bonheur Bros.' famous exhibitions under roof or canvas. Roster of the show, in part, as follows: E. H. Keetch, Lyda Keetch, Little Sybil, Nels Keetch, Edward Brennan, Maude Brennan, Jack Lackore, Frank S. Head, Wm. H. Lake, C. L. McBee, W. E. Smithers, Edward Shumway, Nathan L. Erwin, Geo. E. Tathan, Dell Jack, Merie Jukes, Tom Reynolds. A heavy storm struck the show at Sterling, Kan., and rain fell all night long and nearly all day Sunday. The Kempton Komedy Kompany arrived at 9 a.m. Sunday morning for a week stand at Sterling, and the managers of the yellow wagon shows spent a pleasant evening with L. A. Kempton in interesting talk on show matters generally. . . . The weather is now turing quite cold since the rain has abated.
New York Clipper, November 24, 1900, p. 868. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Frank Adams' Wagon Show. Business for the past ten days has been wonderful. We have turned people away every night. At Elba, Ala., half the crowd could not get in. We then held over for another night and the result was another packed house. The show will undergo repairs and prepare to be on the road all winter.
Prof. R. C. Carlisle, the original Wichita Jack, a clever lasso thrower, expert rifle shot, fancy trick and rough rider, is touring Germany with Barnum & Bailey's Greatest Show on Earth, and has re-engaged for the winter season 1901 in Vienna, Austria.
Notes from A. H. Reed's Circus. We closed our tenting season of twenty-seven weeks at Vernon, Ind., Oct. 29, and everything is neatly stored in winter quarters. We have had the best season in the history of the show. The show will be enlarged in every department next season and it will be made one of the most complete wagon shows on the road.
Chas. Lee's Great London Shows will open about May 1, at Wilkesbarre, Pa., as a railroad show. Mr. Lee having sold right and title to Fred N. Price and C. M. Honeywell, of Wilkesbarre, Pa. It will take ten cars to transport the show, with two bill cars ahead. The show will carry three band wagons and fifteen baggage wagons, one sleeper, one privilege car, two stock cars and six sixty foot flat cars, and employ about one hundred people, forty head of horses and ten Shetland ponies. The winter quarters will be at Wilkesbarre; home office, Canton, Pa., Mr. Lee's old winter quarters. Mr. Lee will be in charge of the home office and attend to the organizing, while Mr. Price and Honeywell will attend to the stock cars and painting and lettering of wagons and general paraphernalia of the show.
The Wintermute Bros.' Show closed a season of twenty-one weeks Oct. 1, and are wintering at Hebron, Wis., where they recently purchased a farm of one hundred and fifteen acres joining their winter quarters. Harry Wintermute has just returned from a two weeks' visit among Eastern relatives. Already preparations are beginning to be made for the coming season.
Bonheur Bros.' Show notes. The yellow wagon shows opened at its home town April 26, for the season of 1900, reconstructed, enlarged and rechristened the New Golden Allied Shows for the Twentieth Century, to splendid business. It returned Nov. __, amid cold winds and a biting frost, with new and much larger tents and additional attractions, after a most prosperous season, resulting from many years of reputation builidng and repeated visits over its beaten ___, to be greeted by friends and their substantial welcome heartily shown by all ___ of coin of the realm, and every blue seat and R. S. chair packed, and the S. R. O. sign brought into requisition at the marquee entrance long before the performance opened. The season was prosperous beyond past records. All surplus stock will be sold and preparations immediatley begun under the personal supervision of the Messrs. Bonheur to completely remodel the entire outfit. All the performers who left winter quarters with Bonheur Bros. came back with the show to home quarters, and the Brenans, Edward and Maude, left for their home on a visit the following day. The Keetches, ___, Lydia, "Little Syl" and Nels, remain at the quarters a few days before starting on a tour of their own. The rest of the company left for their various homes at the close of the last entertainment under the tents for the season of 1900, well satisfied with the business accomplished, and pleasant termination of the tour. W. H. Tibbals closed his engagement with the advance under A. G. Bonheur, and returned to his home in Coffeyville, Kansas. Mr. Tibbals owns the entire bill boards and bill posting about Coffeyville.
New York Clipper, December 15, 1900, p. 936. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Del Fuego (Frank Foignet or Poignet) and Agnes Kramer were married Nov. 21, in Cincinnati.
Sarah Hughes, bareback rider, and George B. Walker (non-professional) were married Nov. 21, in Cincinnati.
Hugh F. Hoffman, press representative of Prof. Gentry's Dog and Pony Show, No. 1, was a Clipper caller Dec. 10. The show closed a very successful season of forty-three weeks at Dublin, Ga., Dec. 1, and is in winter quarters at Macon, Ga. Mr. Hoffman will again be with the show next season.
New York Clipper, December 22, 1900, pp. 953, 955. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Sun Brothers' World Progressive Shows. We ended the season at Lawrenceville, Va., Nov. 24, making over two hundred stands during the year. We opened in Raleigh, N.C., April 5, and the season was one of the most successful in the history of the show. We worked in eight different States. Very few changes were made during the season. The show lost a few days in the spring, and did a light business during the harvest season, being in a strictly harvest community. Outside of that business was immense, and many days we were unable to accommodate the crowds that wished to attend. The company included: Sun Brothers, George and Pete, proprietors; George Sun, manager; Pete Sun, manager in charge of advance; O. R. Stener, treasurer; Otto Gleiser, superintendent of canvas; Harry McBride, chandaliers; Otto Muller, detective and night watch; Sam Morris, steward; Milton Marledge, chief cook; Joseph Malone, blacksmith; Jim Thomas, animal man; John Reynolds, veterinary surgeon; Jack Benson, boss property man; Bert Moore, in charge of paper in advance; Prof. Chass, colored band master; Jules Rhodes, leader of orchestra; Wiley Ferris, equestrian director; Jules Van, manager musuem and annex; James Irwin, Wiley Ferris, Edward Snyder, Geo. Sun, Oscar Brewer and his troupe of cake walkers; Joe Hill and Commodore. Besides these we had Mlle. Trevanion, Arthur May, A. J. Wayne, the Hills, Leo Collins, Fred Teyon, Will H. Whiteside, J. S. Ashton, W. Miles, John Parker, Walter Brown, Dave Mitchel, Silas Johnson, Massie Brown, Albert Jones, John Stewart, Will Gaddes, Barry Crowley, Will Crowley, Joe Davis, Clyde Weatherspoon, Edward Fritzinger, Henry Humphry, Ed. Dickerson, John Call, Will Saunders, Geo. Nels, Edward Davis, Arthur Cherry, Robert Cherry, C. L. Topping, Andrew Gruber, Watson McNally, Ollie Draine, John Shaffer, Joseph Gilbert, and others, all of whom sat down in Sun Bros.' dining tent and ate their farewell supper on Nov. 24, at Lawrenceville, Va. As special guests we had the judge and sheriff of that town. Speeches were made and toasts given. Salaries were paid in full to every one, the workingmen all drawing a big portion on account of leaving it stand until the end. Everyone was happy and all wished the Sun Bros. much luck for 1901. Sun Bros. are quartered this winter in Norfolk, Va., where preparations have already begun for the coming season. The show will be improved in many ways and promises to be in line with the tent shows.
Geneva, O., sent out this press dispatch Dec. 3: "Walter L. Main, who retired from the circus business last fall, today closed a contract with the American Bicycle Company of New York, leasing the large plant formerly occupied by the Geneva 'Cycle Company, for winter quarters. Main announces that he will come out next year with a thirty car show, with which he will tour America."
Lew Graham has been retained as side show manager for 1901, by Ringling Bros. and is organizing a strong "Annex" to the "World's Greatest Shows."
The Stall Trio write: "Since closing with the Campbell Bros.' Railroad Shows we have been working on several new acts, which we will put on during the coming season. They will be acts suitable for ring or stage. They will consist of Herculean, balancing and arial acts, and will be new and up to date in every particular."
Peter Hertz, master of transportation of the Barnum & Bailey Show, returned to New York and Philadelphia last week. His stay in America will be of short duration, inasmuch as he will be required to return to Vienna after the holidays to get the rolling stock in readiness for the summer tour.
The Benevolent Protective Order of Tigers, by which name the social and beneficial order connected with the Barnum & Bailey "Greatest Show on Earth" is known, gave its farewell banquet for the traveling season of 1900 at ___, Germany, week before last. A large assembly hall was engaged for the purpose, and the catering under the direction of Charles Kohl, was all that could be wished for. The pleasure of the evening was added to greatly by musical selections, songs, etc., contributed by members of the concert company. President Jake Posey made a speech detailing the aims of the society, and stated that its membership roll numbered over two hundred, that the finances of the society were in a splendid condition, and the utmost harmony prevailed. The B. O. T. have done some noble things during the past year, and the organization has been the means of binding the various departments of the show in closer friendship than ever before existed. The order has been established as a permanent institution. Regular elections are held twice yearly.
Geo. Irwing will have charge of the side show with Chas. Lee's Great London Shows, Fred Price and Col. C. M. Honeywell, sole owners. Sixteen double deckers will constitute the front. Four Oriental dancing girls have been engaged, also Doc Morris, light and heavy balancer; ___, Indian juggler; Prof. Hays, Punch and Judy; Signor La Cardo, magician and ventriloquist; Mme. Irwing, mind reader; Mlle. Adno and her den of snakes; ___ and Keno, snake eaters; Lulu Day, Circassian beauty; Four Jubilee Singers; Bullock Craven, Fellows and Whitman, and a band of six pieces. The tent is a sixty-five foot top, with two thirty foot middle pieces and three door talkers. Irwin, Morris and Grander, on the stands.
Col. Chas. B. Hicks, writing from Singapore, under date of Nov. 10, objects to several statements made in a letter from W. Plinger, published in the Clipper some weeks ago. He further writes as follows: "Harmston's Circus has been specially engaged, by order of the King of Siam, for the carnival commencing Nov. 20, for six performances at the Palace, receiving 60,000 zecalls, and fares to Bankok and return to Singapore, and allowed to afterwards appear two weeks for the public. His majesty having seen the performance during a visit to Soruybaya, Java, expressed a wish for them to visit Bankok, but manager Love would only go on a guarantee."
Arthur O. May has just closed a thirty-five week's engagement with the Sun Bros.' Show, and has gone to his home in St. Louis. He will be there until after the holidays.
J. A. Bailey left Vienna for London, where he attended the annual meeting of the Barnum & Bailey, Ltd.; from there he left for New York, sailing from Liverpool Dec. 8.
Notes from Louis Crescent Shows. We closed at ___, Pa., after a season of six months, and shipped to our winter quarters at Trumbull, O. Business for the season was beyond our expectations. We sold at public auction a number of horses and wagons, which we will replace with new ones next season, which begins May 20. Mr. Louis has gone to Cuba as a member of E. C. Maginley's Circo America.
New York Clipper, December 29, 1900, pp. 970, 980. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Chas. B. Hicks. For ten years the general representative of Harmston's Grand Circus and Menagerie, the largest and best tented exhibition touring the Orient, having been the recipient of the Order of Chrysanthemum in Japan, and the Grand Order and Crown from H. H. the Sultan, containing his monogram set in diamonds and rubies and having handsome tokesn from India. He is the originator of the Georgia and Hicks-Sawyer Minstrels, and visited the Australian colonies with them. He is a native of Baltimore, Me.
Notes from Colorado Grant's winter quarters. We closed our season at Bartlett, Kan., Nov. 14, and arrived at our winter quarters in Oswego the following day. A wonderful transformation scene has taken place since our arrival here. Painters, woodworkers, blacksmiths, etc., are busy from morning until night. Most of the wagons and cages are receiving their finishing touches, and without a doubt when they are finished they will be the most handsome wagons ever seen in a parade with a wagon show. Mr. Grant is also having a handsome new band wagon and ticket wagon built. Last week we received our new big top from Kansas City. Our parade this season will be a thing of beauty and a joy forever to those who will be fortunate enough to see it. It will have a brass band of fourteen musicians in our new band wagon, drawn by eight beautiful black stallions. Our No. 2 band will be mounted on ten spotted Arabian horses. Ten four horse animal cages, three pony carts and two clown carts. Mr. Grant is breaking in some fine new ponies and horses for the ring, while Mrs. Grant, with a half dozen assistants, is kept busy making new wardrobe and parade banners. Among the last season's company that are putting in the winter at the winter quarters are: Geo. Oliver, ___, Geo. Ellis, ___, Charlie Chapman . . . Ed Moore, Charlie Sweet . . .
C. J. Carroll has just closed a twenty-eight weeks' season with the advance of the Rhoda Royal Circus, and is now resting in his home in Gouverneur, N.Y. Next season Mr. Carroll will come out with a vaudeville company and will play the principal resorts and parks during the summer.
James A. Bailey is in America, making preparations to organize an entirely new Barnum & Bailey Show for tours of this country, opening March __, 1902, at Madison Square Garden.
1901
New York Clipper, January 19, 1901, p. 1046. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Circo Cubana, now touring the Island of Cuba. We opened our traveling season at Matanzas, Cuba, Dec. 14, showing there one week to crowded tents. We turned many away Saturday evening, and matinee and night Sunday. Tito Ruenes is sole proprietor and manager. Mr. Ruens is a big favorite among the natives, owing to the fact he being a major in the late Cuban-Spanish war, being help a prisoner for more than two years by the Spaniards. Tomas Quevede is advance agent, Florencio Romero, treasurer; Julio Ruenes, secretary; Antonio ___, press agent; Ysodor Radaga, general agent; Santiago Perex, transportation master; Ed. Y. Kuniely, assistant manager. We carry a 100ft. round top, with a 50ft. middle piece; a 40ft. round top dressing tent, 40ft. square horse tent. We carry twenty-eight head of horses. Chas. H. Bailey is in charge, with five assistants. Andrew Lopez is superintendent of canvas, with eight assistants; Pedro Madrzo in charge of lights, Luis Suarez, boss props. We carry a native band of eight pieces. Nickolas Ceballos is our equestrian director. Peter Barlow, principal somersault and jockey rider; Mr. Maguire, with a troupe of eight performing horses and his trained mule; Lew Sunlin, and his performing bull; George Gilbert, and his troupe of performing goats; Prof. Kreisel, with his dogs, cats and monkeys; Yamada's Troupe of Japs, six in number; Joe Belmont, principal leaper; Miss Avon, Spanish rings and trapeze performer . . . Nola and Ducrow, revolving ladder and clowns; Lorbey Bros., horizontal bars; Lyons and Craig, comic acrobats; John Carrie, equilibrist; Barons and Chachito, native dancers; Dan Ducrow, Spanish talking clown. We will show all the principal towns in Cuba, the season running until July. . . .
Carl Clair, bandmaster of the Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth, at Rotunda, Vienna, Austria, received a cablegram from London, Eng., Dec. 8, announcing the arrival of a ten pound daughter. Mother and daughter are both doing well.
Albert Gaston, the veteran clown, is visiting his home, Columbus, Ind., having closed a ten months' season with M. L. Clark's show in Texas.
The Walter L. Main Show will take the road again next season, opening in Geneva, O., the last of May.
Jacko, the largest and oldest rhinoceros in captivity, died Jan. 3, at the Philadelphia Zoo, of heart trouble and infirmities incident to old age. He weighed three tons.
Roster of the New York Circus Co., now touring Porto Rico and the West India Islands: T. S. Chapman, proprietor; James Donavan, manager; Emma Stickney, Stick Davenport, the Kenyons, Morello Bros., Emma Donovan, Tote Ducrow, May Davenport, Mlle. Novello, Chas. Rench, Reno McCree, Chas. Anzo, De Garmo Bros., Robert Stickney and Ike Goldsmith.
Albert Orton has been engaged to do his riding acts with the W. H. Harris Nickel Plate Show.
Sells & Gray notes. After a successful season of thirty-four weeks the Wm. Sells and Jas. H. Gray's United Shows are now comfortably housed in commodious winter quarters at Savannah, Ga. The show closed at Miami, Fla., Thursday, Dec. 27. One of the pleasant incidents of the last day was the presentation of a diamond ring to Warren A. Patrick, treasurer, the members of the entire show having a share in showing this mark of appreciation. The trip to Key West was fraught with never to be forgotten memories, and one can readily image the volume of business when it is known that the inhabitants of the island had never before seen an elephant on their shores. Active preparations for the coming season have commenced at the winter quarters, and the show will be brand new all the way through when the band plays for the first time next Spring. . . . Among those booked are: the Earl Sisters, Miss Edna, lady equestrienne; Delavoye and Fritz, ___, Partick B. Kelly, Holmen Bros. and the Milvos.
The Bros. Royer, of "Next Door" fame, are very busy fitting up a new wagon show. Archie Royer and Geo. W. Belford, of the old time Belford Show, are the owners and managers. Mr. Royer has had women working on banners all winter. He has also purchased a lot of wagons and paraphernalia of Mr. Reynold and several beautiful wagons of Albert Wetter, and intends building his show up from year to year. He will open his tenting season, May 11, at Pottstown, Pa.
New York Clipper, February 2, 1901, p. 1090. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
. . . Walter L. Main Show. William J. Doris, so long and favorably known as a privilege man, has leased of Main the side show, concert, candy stands, and in fact, all privileges for the ensuing year. Mr. Doris will manage everything except the big show and reserved seats. The concert will be made a special feature and will be entirely different from anything heretofore given under a tent. Scenery will be used and the best vaudeville engaged, and it is especially stipulated in Mr. Doris' contract that he is to allow no noise or confusion or venders on the seats during the vaudeville performance, and that the after entertainment will be strictly first class and a novel entertainment. Doris will use a three pole side show canvas and own all privilege property. It will be entirely new and in keeping with everything with the big show. He will have a first class Wagner sleeper, with accommodations the very best for all in his department. F. J. Chamberlain has been engaged to arrange for the several bands. Dan Fitzgerald, who has been superintendent of the Barnum & Bailey Shows, just returned from Vienna, Austria, has been engaged as general superintendent. Mr. Fitzgerald will also especially look after the comfort and interest of the workingmen; also purchase all the raw material that will be bought for the new show. The workingmen, as well as the performers and musicians, will sleep this year with the main show in a Pullman. Robert Abrams, better known as "Bud," who was with the Main show so many years, is engaged as boss hostler. R. H. Dockrill, so well and favorably known as a circus equestrian director, will soon leave for Geneva, where he will commence breaking ring horses. As the Main enterprise will be new in 1901 from A to Z, it will no doubt be the handsomest equipped show ever built in America, and neatness and cleanliness will be one of its features, and, as it will be known as Main's all New "Fashion Plate," Main expects to have everything correspond with the title. The manager will arrange in the new Pullman sleepers wardrobes for the care and safe keeping of the performers, musicians and business people's clothing. The show will use two trains of cars, and expects to open at Geneva, O., winter quarters, Saturday, April 27. During the summer of 1900 Main traversed Europe and foreign countries in search of novelties which he has acquired and will produce with the new big show.
Notes from Geo. S. Ely's Two Big Show, is in New York, superintending the for the season of 1901. All the wagons (twelve in number) are receiving their last coat of paint. Our new band wagon, which will be drawn by four white ponies, will be the feature of our parade. The show will have thirty-two head of stock all told, eight people in band and six people in the dressing room. The show will make a western tour. All our people around the barn are kept busy, and everything will be in readiness for the opening day, which will be April 1.
Wm. Rawls, contortionist, is booked with the Hall & Long's Big Shows for the coming season.
John Baker, of the Rhoda Royal Show, is in New York, superintending the purchase of new cars and animals. The circus is now traveling through Florida, with eight cars. Millie Forepaugh, the trapeze performer, joined in Tampa, Fla., and Frank A. Robbins is a recent acquisition. J. A. W. Jones has the side show. A new sixty-three horse pedestal act has been broken in, and eminent satisfaction has been given by this feature. The show is doing well and will stay out all winter.
People signed for Chas. Lee's Great London Shows: Wm. Sloman, general agent; Frank Burns, local agent in charge of car No. 1; Harry Freeman, lithographer and banners; John T. Fenton, lithographer and programmer; ___, bill poster, with . . . Charles Francis, Tom Wilson, James White, Bill Wind, Joseph Tuttle, Sandy Rogers, Hugh McKinney, assistants; Charles Todd, car porter. The show opens May 1, at Wilkesbarre.
James Fitzgerald has signed with Gollmar Bros.' Circus for the coming season, making his tenth with the show.
E. O. Ferguson has signed as general agent of Geo. W. Hall's Jr. Circus and Menagerie, making his second season.
Notes from the Sun Brothers World's Progressive Shows. We have signed for our band the following people: Prof. Chas. Coons, bandmaster (second season), Edward Kingsland (third season), J. S. Ashton (second season), Leon Ardel, Hamlin Smith, ___, and Geo. Raymond. Oscar Brewer signed as principal clown. The show is being put in the best of condition, and Sun Bros. can feel proud of their layout for the season of 1901.
New York Clipper, February 16, 1901, p. 1133. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
News from the Williams & Co.'s Great Northern R. R. Shows: Prof. Williams is breaking a troupe of fifteen performing dogs at our winter quarters. The show will be new throughout. Baker, of Kansas City, is making a 70ft. round top, with two 30ft. middle pieces. We will have all special paper. The following people have signed: Zad Zing and Carlotta, knife throwers and athletes; Myers and Ross, aerialists and jugglers; ___ troupe of Arabs; the Owens, Fred and Kittie . . . Prof. Williams has a school of small educated ponies. Everything is progresssing nicely and the show will be as good as the ___ when we open at Milwaukee, Wis., about April __.
The Cullins Bros.' Shows, of Concordia, Kan., will not go out this season. Lew F. Cullins, manager for the Cullins Bros., is now connected with the Royal Railroad Dog and Pony Circus, which will open in ___, Neb., early in May.
Wm. Irwin and wife have signed with A. H. Reed's Circus; also Frank Dempsey, boss canvas man, making his third season.
Bell and Richards have signed with the Great Wallace Shows for the coming season.
La Fleur is in his sixth week with Orrin Bros.' Circus. The show exhibited four weeks in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico, and a week in ___, two days in Vera Cruz, and opened in Mexico City Jan. 26, for a run of six weeks.
New York Clipper, March 2, 1901, p. 14. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Colorado Grant's World's Greatest Wagon Shows. . . . The show has been enlarged considerably from last season. We now have thirty-six wagons. Besides building a lot of new wagons and cages, all of our old wagons have been overhauled and repainted. This season we will have only four and six and horse teams. Our new band wagon and ticket wagons were turned out of the paint show last Thursday. Mr. Grant has purchased twenty head of beautiful Osage Indian ponies and a car load of fine draught horses. The following performers, who have traveled with the shwos in the past, have signed contract for the coming season: Johnny Le Vere, contortionist (third season); Clyde Rialto, hand balancer (third season); Billy Lee, singing and talking clown (second season); Whiting and Stokes, double trapeze and revolving ladder (second season); Prof. A. C. Reddinger, leader of band; Robt. Chosman, alto and first violin (third season). Other musicians and performers have signed as follows: John Van Saut, E. B. Nugent, H. A. Molesworth, Fred Harper, Otto Johnson, A. L. Holton, C. C. Rowley, Owen J. Burns, O. C. Dutton, Princess Kahaji (Japanese juggler), Layton Sisters (Edna and Bessie), aerialists; Ed. L. Moore, general agent (second season); Geo. Oliver, boss hostler (second season); Bert (Fatty) Saunders, blacksmith (second season); Walter Revelee, boss property man (second season); Chas. H. Lane will have charge of the Hotel de Grant, his third season; Samuel C. Standfield, master of transportation and purchasing agent, third season. C. E. Coleman has signed for the exclusive advertising privilege. W. H. Tibbils, Frank Jackson and Tony Hickman will be with the advance as bill posters and lithographers. Senor F. C. Moncayo, the only Mexican juggler in America. Besides our array of performers, our horses and ponies, which consist of one hundred and sixty head, are as fine as the finest, and will command admiration from all that see them. We are receiving daily shipments of special paper from the leading show printing houses of the East.
Notes from the Whitney One Ring Circus. Everything is in repair for the season of 1901. Everybody has signed for this season, and we are looking forth to a prosperous season. We open April 27 at our headquarters, Imlay City, Mich. Jack Phillip and wife were here to spend a few days with us last week. Mr. Whitney is building three new wagons this season, and a new white top, 90x40, will float in the air. We will carry thirty people.
W. H. Harris' Nickel Plate Shows with be continued by Mrs. Harris and Chas. C. Wilson on the same careful lines as laid down by the late Mr. Harris.
Lulu Mitchell, who was with the Great Wallace Show last season, has been re-engaged by manager Bowman for the coming season.
Notes from the Bonheur Bros.' Shows. Louis Wood writes the Clipper that everything is on the hustle for another successful season with the Bonheur Bros.' New Allied Golden Shows. On account of the town being moved two miles East of its old site, to rebuild on the line of the New Southwestern Railway line to Fort Stillwell, on the Pacific, the show quarters had not been enlarged sufficiently for the work of building wagons, etc., and the result was that space was somewhat cramped. Work outdoors is now going on in earnest, and everyone indoors and out is busy with brush, hammer and saw. Long racks of blue tent poles reflect the benign smile of the blue skies overhead. The new tent that was purchased last Fall a few weeks before the close of the season, and newer ones that have been lately added, will make one of the handsomest layouts of canvas imaginable. In fact, everything will be new from flagstaffs to guy stakes and from guy stakes to toe pins. A six passenger automobile from Burlington, Ia., has been ordered to be ready for shipment by June 1. The company has nearly all been made up, with the exception of a few people to strengthen, and J. R. Bonheur's new animated picture machine, made to order from his own designs, has been rebuilt (at the quarters) with added improvements. The Bonheur Bros. investments in the old town were failures here on account of the change in the grade of the new railroad. They lost heavily. Lots that were worth $500 went down to $15 in the old town. They owned quite a number of these lots. Owing to the news of the sudden rapid advancement recently made by the projectors of the new Kansas City, Mexico and Orient Railway, an impetus was given to the work of completing all show property to be in readiness for an early opening. The laying of the steel will begin at Anthony, Kan., and it is conjectured that over a mile of steel rails per day will be laid, which will bring the road to this point some time in April.
Bert Chipman, side show talker, and wife, Cleo, Oriental danseuse, have signed with Lemen Bros., making their second season with that show.
C. G. Phillips' winter quarters, Cortland, O., was visited by a destructive fire on Feb. 7. The paint building and the scenic building were totally destroyed, along with a large stock of paints and decorative fixtures for the show wagons. By the able assistance of the fire department and a crowd of five hundred spectators and main storage building, which is 120ft. long and 70ft. wide, containing thirty-five wagons and chariots, tents, poles, etc., and adjoining barn, containing sixty-eight head of fine horses, were saved. It wook some hard work, as the paint shop and scenic buildings were only 40ft. away from the main buildings, but the wind was favorable, and, with plenty of water and willing hands, the fire was soon under control. As soon as it was put out men were into the woods on one of Mr. Phillips' farms cutting timbers for new foundations, and as soon as the streams ceased to play on the ruins there was another force of men at work clearing away the debris for the new buildings, which will go up in a hurry. There has been a force of fifteen people, working around winter quarters all winter, but now the force will be doubled, in order to have all ready for the opening. Mr. Phillips sends out three shows this season - two wagon shows and one railroad show. In January he purchased H. J. Ewing's entire circus, hippodrome and Wild West Show. It has just lately arrived and was stored away with the other two shows. Had the fire got into the main buildings the loss would have mounted into many thousands.
The Roberts Family, acrobats, are engaged with the Great John Robinson Shows for the coming season, making their second season with this show.
John D. Carey has signed for the coming season with Walter L. Main's New Fashion Plate Shows. This will be Mr. Carey's sixth season with Main. Last season he successfully acted as press agent for the Rhoda Royal Shows. Mr. Carey is a graduate from New York newspapers, and at home in every department of the large railroad shows.
The Hocums have been engaged with Gollmar Bros. & Schuman's Combined Shows for next season. At present Mr. Hocum is busy breaking stock for the above aggregation.
Notes from Rigall Bros.' Shows. It is a busy scene around the winter quarters at Grayville, Ill. Wagon makers, blacksmiths, painters and scenic artists are all being rushed that everything may be in readiness for the coming season. All wagons are new and painted snow white, trimmed in gold and royal purple. The show will be new from stake to bale ring, and will be one of the swellest equipped overland shows in America. We will carry forty people and forty-five head of stock. H. C. Rigall, general manager; F. E. Rigall, treasurer; J. O. Rigall, superintendent of privileges; J. D. Rigall, charge of the advance, with three assistants; Jack Stoddard, boss canvas man, and Curley Henessy, boss hostler.
Cooper & Co.'s Circus staff: E. L. Brannan, general agent; M. C. Cookston, manager in advance; F. E. Lewis, contractor; Jas. Sewell, boss bill poster; Frank Marshall, Paul Comes, Jack Huntley, Will Adams, bill posters; Frank Carrie, lithographer.
People with Tony Lowande's Circus, touring the Island of Cuba; Tony Lowande and wife, four horse principal and carrying acts; the Moulier Sisters, bar act; Philips and Naynon, tropical birds; Two Gerome Bros., acrobats; Pearl Forepaugh and Fred Welcome, aerialists and hand balancers; Martino Lowande Jr., principal somersault act; Rudolph and carola, double traps and rings; Harry Higgins, mule hurdle; Carl Michaels, strong man; Delphinoes, musical clowns; Eddie Rivers, bounding rope; Gonzales, Spanish clown. Bert Johnson is equestrian director.
From Chas. Lee's Great London Railroad Shows, Price & Honeywell, sole owners and managers. The following people have signed: Chas. and Jenney Ewers, riders, with their four ring horses and eight performing ponies; Thomas Madden and Nellie Murro, A. Y. Barlow and Nellie Barlow, Lenord and Hart, Handdig, Albert Sylvester, Emle Goryth, Morgan Sisters, Geo. Irving and wife, L. E. Granger and wife, Doc Morris, Sig. Balosco, Bob Harris, A. J. Anderson, Prof. Hill's band of twelve pieces, ___ Basso Band of eight pieces, Henry Gunther, tattooed woman; Kelanka, snake charmer; Wm. Sloman, general agent; Frank Burns, local agent in charge of car, with ten bill posters. The show will open the latter part of April at Wilkesbarre, Pa. Price & Honeywell will have an entire new train of cars built at Berwick, Pa.
John Griffin has been engaged as adjuster for the Walter L. Main Fashion Plate Shows.
Lambert and Maynard have signed for the coming season with Walter L. Main's Fashion Plate Shows.
Lew Nichols writes: "I will be manager of the side show with Campbell Bros.' Great Consolidated Shows season of 1901. It will be new from lay out pin to centre pole. Twelve double deck paintings and card to the public will be the front. The following people are engaged: W. J. Anderson, Harrie Pierce and N. Peping, door talkers; Madame Leland, mind reader; Lulu Fuego, tattooed lady; Dell Fuego, fire king; Prince Mungo, Zulu; Prof. Goldie, magician; Prof. Leoati, Punch and ventriloquism; Dot Rousk, Circassian and troupe of performing monkeys and birds; C. A. Boney, albino, and white band of eight pieces. . . .
Katie M. Robinson, oldest daughter of John F. Robinson, of the John Robinson Shows, was married in Terrace Park, O., on Feb. 14, to John C. Crone.
Briggs & Holland's Summer Festival will go out next season new in every particular, and many new and novel acts have been secured. We have just purchased a new 90ft. round top, with two 30ft. middle pieces, also twelve wagons, painted in white, red, and gold bronze. Our band wagon is a dream, finished in the same colors, with five French plate glass mirrors. All harness are heavily mounted with brass. Our principal features will consist of Billy Briggs, aerial trick 'cyclist; Chauncey Holland, singing and comedian and monologist; Earnest Inman and his troupe of trained elephants; the Flying Halpins; Harvey Moore, comedian and dancer; William Booth, leaper; Holland & Bowman, musical act; W. Halpin, principal rider, and the Three Adrians, in their new trick cabin act. Our band will be under the leadership of Prof. Palmer Bowman. The show will open June _, at Brazil, Ind., and our tour will embrace Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Wisconsin and Illinois. Briggs and Holland are at present with Harry Ward's Minstrels, where they will remain until the opening of the circus season.
Frank Burns, manager of the Dewey Burlesques, has signed with the Chas. Lee London Shows for the summer.
New York Clipper, March 16, 1901, pp. 57, 58. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Welsh Brothers' Newest Great Railroad Shows are scheduled to open their fourteenth consecutive tented tour early in April, at Lancaster. The show for the coming season has been slightly enlarged and will be the most pretentious exhibition every handled by the management of the "Newest Great." It will require a train of ten cars to transport the paraphernalia, with one car and a second brigade in advance. The tents will all be new and of the latest designs. On account of several states prohibiting the use of gasoline for illuminating public places of amusement, the show will be lighted by electricity, a complete small portable plant being carried by the show. It will be featured heavily. The Messrs. Welsh Bros. claim that they are the first "popular priced" managers in many years to introduce this innovation. The arenic menu will be furnished by Prof. Chas. E. Rice's dog and pony show. Takezawn's Royal Court Japanese Circus Co., Mlle. Yucca, the Great Del Sabos, troupe of French aerialists, Max Hugo, comique juggler; Peasley and Schnorr, comedy acrobats; the Brooks-Danver Troupe of Statuary Posturers, Mlle. Rice, menage act; Frank and Ida McCormick, lightning gun drillists; Lee and Lenore, revolving ladder; Bob Rodney, hurdle mule rider; Grimaldi Brooks and Bob Peasley, singing and talking clowns, and May Brooks, novelty aerialits. The annex is under the direction of Prof. J. W. Lee, the band and orchestra under the guidance of Herbert H. Whittier (fifth season), H. Stanley Lewis is general advertising manager and publisher of programme. M. H. Welsh will be general manager, John Welsh, general agent; V. O. Woodward, local agent, with ten bill posters; Chas. O'Bryan, superintendent of lot, and Jack Forepaugh, director of equine department.
Notes from Long Bros.' Palace Shows, now wintering at Natchez, Miss. Roster: H. C. Long, sole proprietor and manager; Ernest Pasliman, band master, with eight musicians; Bob White, Chas. Johnson, Geo. Kline, Harry Earle, Mme. Earle, the de Arms, Three Le Brandons, SAnbro, La Moyne, the Hills, Fred and Clio Simons, Lute Ferguson. In the side show: a fine lot of birds, monkeys and small animals; Prof. Hill, in magic and Hindoo mystery; "Senta" and her den of snakes; James Hughes, in charge of canvas, with eight assistants; Martin Goff, boss hostler, with ten assistants; Wm. Simmons, side show, with four assistants. Everything has been put in first class shape for the opening, which takes place in this city March 7, continuing three dasy. The advance is in charge of R. J. Mercer, general agent; Wm. Wimberly, boss bill poster, with five assistants; two four horse bill wagons and two single wagons. The show goes out this season one of the best wagon shows in the South, consisting of twenty-one wagons, six cages, seventy head of draft stock and fifteen ponies. The big top is 70ft. with 30ft. and 40ft. middle pieces. The side show tent is 40ft., with 30ft. middle piece. Horse tent, 40x90ft., and cook tent, 20x40ft. The show will carry fifty people, all told, and will make its old territory, where it is well and favorably known.
The Rowennas, upside down jugglers and head balancers, have signed for the coming season with the John Robinson Show, this making their third season with that show. They are at present featured with the Clarke Mortimer Co.
Mrs. Lew Graham will sail for England April, __, to spend the summer with relatives.
Notes from Walter J. McDonald's Shows. Everybody is busy painting and fixing up for our opening. We receive a shipment of animals this month, consisting of one elephant, seven African lions, two of which perform; one mountain lion and ocelot, which, added to our eight cages, will make a nice collection. Some of our late engagements are: the Hardell Brothers, Copeland and Lewis, Ben Lucier and the Davenports. A baby Shetland pony was born in quarters last week; it is about the size of a jack rabbit.
Notes from the Williams & Co. Great Northern R. R. Shows. The following people have been engaged by manager C. S. Baldwin for this co.: Myers and Ross, jugglers and aerialists; the Ervings, double traps; Burgess and Rice, brother act and comiques; Eugene V. Ward, novelty ladder and equilibrist, and Zat Zings' troupe of Mexican knife throwers and acrobats. Prof. E. Williams will introduce his highly educated troupe of horses, ponies, donkeys and dogs at each performance. For the side show Malmed Bejaminis, the ring man and human pin cushion; Prof. Zat, magician and box mystery; ___ Zaleta, snake charmer; Migetene, the small horse, and a den of performing lions have been secured. We open our season April __, at Milwaukee.
Madame Scott, wife of W. W. Scott, will appear with the Great Wallace Show the coming season, which will be her fourth season with that show.
Robert Mercer joined the Long Bros.' Circus in Natchez, Miss., on Feb. 25, as general agent.
Roster of Rippel's Big 10 and 20 Cent Shows. C. A. Rippel, proprietor; Louis Goldstein, agent, with two assistants; Prof. Wm. Tess Berry, band leader, with band of seven; Gertie Rippel, slack wire and Indian clubs; Zolla, aerialist, traps and ring; Master Chas. Rippel, contortion and bars; Master Jack Rippel, acrobatic song and dance; Harry Leon, juggler and equilibrist; Master Robert Rippel, human encyclopedia and child clown; ___ Leon, plastique posturings . . . Mr. Rippel has bought a piece of ground half a mile from Muncie, Ind., where he will erect winter quarters.
Ed. Jamison will put on a Winter circus next season, playing one and two night stands, with a company of twenty people. He will carry a brass band and orchestra and travel in a special car.
The following people have been engaged for the advance of Gollmar Bros.' & Shuman's Shows: Wm. St. Auburn, contractor; Ed. H. Jamison, in charge of paper and all advance wagons; Bert Noyes, boss bill poster; Wm. Saxton, Lou ___, Ben Hasselman, Frank White, Wm. Ward, Geo. Baldwin, Chester Douthet, Al. Hurst and B. J. Snyder, bill posters . . . The show is greatly enlarged using all special paper and plenty of it. They have four wagons and ten horses in the advance. Fred C. Gollmar is the general agent, and will route the show.
New York Clipper, March 23, 1901, p. 79. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Williams & Co.'s Great Northern Shows. Greves Litho. Co. is getting out all special paper for us. Everybody is busy painting and fixing up for our opening. Our new car has just arrived from the Pullman shops, and it is one of the best combination sleeper and dining cars ever sent out for show purposes. Some of our late engagements are: Fred and Kitty Owens, John Miller, contortionist, and Chas. H. Helmer, contracting agent. Fred Owens will have charge of the concert. The show will play through the Northwest during the summer, with many new features and an entirely new outfit. Williams & Co. are the proprietors, and C. S. Baldwin is manager.
Notes of the Royal R. R. Shows, which opens at Omaha, Neb. Everything is on the move around our winter quarters, and we are getting the show in shape and everything will be as fine as money can make it. People now booked are: the Skerbecks, the Wrights, Chas. La Verna, the Einhaus Family, five in number; Three Gaithner Bros., S. L. Duckworth, W. H. Quinnett, agent; C. C. Walker, Sam Evans, W. A. Buckner, Rex Gaithner, leader of band; Johnson and McDonald, side show, with ten people; Kadel and Smith, candy stand and song book privileges. The show will open early in May and will tour Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, Michigan and Wisconsin.
Harry Thurston writes that he has closed the Winter Garden, Cortland, N.Y. He will take the side show with the Goodrich, Huffman & Southey Shows, featuring the half man, half horse; Prince Mungo, African prince; Mlle. De Alma, snakes; Del Buego, fire king; Major Page, midget; Madam Meueto, a troupe of glass blowers and others.
Al. Armer met with a serious accident while clowning in the parade at Cheneville, La., with Haag's Show. The mule that he was driving to the January cart became frightened at a bicycle and ran down an embankment, throwing Mr. Armer out on his head and shoulders, breaking the collar bone. He was sent back to Lecompte, La., and is now resting well with friends.
Notes from Walter J. McDonald's Colossal R. R. Shows. Our new printing has arrived from the Erie Printing Co., with all special new bills, and it will surely open the natives' eyes. We have at present twenty-five workingmen in winter quarters, divided off in different gangs of painters, blacksmiths, hostlers, etc., and everything will be in tip top shape for our opening April 27. All wardrobe will be new and bright. The show will consist of nine cars and advertising car. Canvas: big top 120ft. round top, with two 50ft. middle pieces; menagerie top, 80ft. with two 40ft. middle pieces; side show 50 by 110ft.; 73 head of stock, 150 people. Advance roster, car No. 1: Geo. Castello, general agent; J. A. Cassell, contracting agent; Harry Busenbark, car manager; D. A. Ransom, in charge brigade No. 2; sixteen bill posters on the car and five with brigade.
Archie S. Robbins has signed with the Walter L. Main Show for the coming season. He will furnish his Punch and Judy and will lecture in the side show.
Harry E. Knowlton, formerly manager of the Erie, Pa., Lyceum, and the Buffalo Wonderland, has signed with Walter L. Main's New Fashion Plate Shows, to act as press representative the coming season.
New York Clipper, March 30, 1901, p. 107. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Del Fuego, the fire eater, writes us a request to correct a statement which appeared in our last issue to the effect that he has signed with Harry Thurston for side show.
Notes from the winter quarters of Geo. W. Hall Jr.'s Circus and Menagerie. Things will be very busy around the winter quarters now until our opening day, which will be early in May. We have closed contracts with E. D. Colvin, agent of Carl Hagenback, for an elephant, which well arrive here by April 1. The show will carry two camels and elephant and five cages of animals, including two dens of lions and sixteen wagons. E. O. Ferguson will have charge of the advance, with three assistants. The roster so far is: . . . Lem Drake, T. F. Kenney, ___, Chester Roy, Neolia, Frank F. Dryden, Julius Jepson, J. W. Anderson, J. C. Whitemeyer, ___, Ann Turner and Frank Hall and his school of trained dog, hounds, ponies, pigs and mules. Jim Cherry will have charge of the canvas, and Billy Williams will be in charge of stock.
New York Clipper, April 6, 1901, p. 119. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Harry R Vickers, business representative of Hargreaves' Big Show, writes: "The Hargraves Big Show for its second season will be bright and new in all its appointments. This season it will be a wagon show, consisting of ninety head of stock, which will include twenty-five magnificent Shetland ponies. The canvs will be 110ft. round top, with two 50ft. middle pieces, and everything connected with the organization will be new. Mr. Hargraves has just signed Fred Locke and his performing horses; the St. Julians, aerial people; ___; Nellie Leonard, the Flying Valenties, Prof. Pieriot, with twenty-five performing ponies, and Valentine-Vince and Harry Wyble, principal clowns. The box brigade will be under the supervision of Harry C. Vickers, with seven assistants. From front to back the show will employ a working corps of one hundred and two people, and manager Hargraves has in this attraction for the coming season all the elements to make this one of the recognized 10 and 20c circuses in the field. All papter is new and novel, and our first shipment has just been received from the Erie Show Print. The season will open about May 9."
Walter J. McDonald writes: "We have already enlarged the show one car, making ten cars instead of nine, as originally intended, they not being sufficient for the extra horses and animals that have lately been bought."
Notes from the Great Rhoda Royal Shows. After spending a delightful winter among the orange groves of Florida and the turpentine and lumber camps of Georgia, we are once more headed northward. While the winter season has not been a record breaker financially, we have managed to hold our own, which is an unusual thing for a show of this size in the winter. Now, however, that Spring has commenced in this section, and we are getting real circus weather, the country people are beginning to come in larger numbers, the amount of silver in the ticket wagon is increasing daily and everything points to a prosperous season. We reorganize in Augusta next week, and will go out with everything bright, clean and in first class shape. Harry Allen, the well known privilege man, has been engaged as license adjuster and manager of privileges. John E. Ogden is superintendent of the side show and will have an exhibition second to none. Among the people so far engaged are: Lizette, mind reader; Prof. Bradshaw, magic and ventriloquism; Chas. Boynton, Punch and Judy; Mlle. Boynton, snake charmer; Joe Cramer, human giraffe; a company of Turkish musicians and dancing girls, and a colored band of eight pieces.
Notes from Chas. Lee's London Shows. Things are beginning to assume tangible shape around our winter quarters, and every one is busy in anticipation of our opening, which will be May 1. Our talent has all been engaged and the canvas is nearly all new. We will travel on our own train of ten all new cars, and will carry fifty head of as fine horses as the country affords, and they will be a feature of the show. The staff consists of: Col. C. M. Honeywell, director general; L. E. Granger, assistant manager; Fred. H. Price, treasurer; D. J. Robson, assistant treasurer; Geo. B. Irving, annex manager; Wm. Sloman, general agent; Chas. Ewers, equestrian director; Harry Rogers, in charge of canvas, and Mike Condon, in charge of stock.
H. Stanley Lewis and wife have rejoined the Welsh Bros.' Shows, making their fifth season with that firm. Mr. Lewis will resume his position as advertising manager. Mrs. Lewis having charge of the reserved seat department.
The Shields Bros., acrobats and equilibrists, have signed with the Wixom Bros.' R. R. Shows for the coming season.
Notes from Cambell Bros.' Shows. At this writing everything is receiving the finishing touches, and will be in fine shape for the opening day, April 27. All the cars and wagons have been rebuilt and the parade will be a decided feature. J. W. Kelly, who has charge of the canvas, made a hit with the bys when he had the canvs spread for his inspection. The show will be enlarged this year, as it has become necessary to add more cars to transport the horses, wagons and animals that have been added. John Rooney and Willie Atkins occupy the training ring most of the time, and are doing some fine riding. W. H. Quinnett and ___ Burns have been re-engaged on the advance force.
Hoarce Webb, novelty gymnast, goes with the Great Wallace Show, this making his second season with it.
Chas. Lee's Great London Shows are almost ready for the road, with everything new from stake to railing. J. E. Granger, assistant manager, is at the quarters having just returned from the West. The show opens in the latter part of April and carries ten cars, all new. Staff: Fred H. Rice, treasurer; Col. C. M. Honeywell, manager; L. E. Granger, assistant manager; Wm. Sloman, general agent.
Notes from the Great Syndicate Show. Everybody is busy at winter quarters at Centropolis getting things in shape for the Spring. Charles Huggins is superintending all departments, and Centropolis is a busy place just at present. We will have everything new in shape of canvas. The big top will be 120ft. with two __ft. middle pieces; menagerie 80ft. with 40ft. middle piece; the side show is 70ft. with __ft. middle piece; dressing room, tents, cook and horse tents will all be new, and all made by C. ?. Baker, of Kansas City. The blacksmith shop, paint shop, carpenter ship, harness ship and all other departments are humming with busy workmen, and the Great Syndicate will go out looking brighter than ever. Col. J. F. Smith, proprietor, met with an accident recently, spraining his ankle, and is laid up for the present, but his partner, W. F. Smith, has taken the helm and everything moves as could be desired. Roster of advance: T. W. Howard, general agent; C. W. West, local contractor; W. S. Dunington, manager car No. 1, with twelve assistants; J. A. Holland, excursion agent; Harry Graham, in charge of brigade with eight assistants. The show will open in Kansas City and go South, touring Missouri, Kentucky, Virginia and the Carolinas. W. G. Kelsey, the treasurer, who has been in Denver for several months for his health, has returned very much improved.
Chas. Ewers and wife, with their four head of ring stock and eight performing ponies, are hard at work in Chas. Lee's ring barn at Canton, Pa. Wm. Delmore and wife, Young Madden and wife, Bob Harris, A. Y. Barlow and wife . . . Albert Sylvester, Lenora and Hart, A. J. Anderson, ___, Doc Morris, Geo. H. Irving and wife, Lon Grangers, wife and child . . . Prof. Floyd Barnard, ___ band of fourteen pieces; W. L. Rogers, superintendent, have signed with Price & Honeywell, sole owners and managers of Chas. Lee's Great London Circus. The show will open on April 29, at Wilkesbarre, Pa., and dress rehearsal will be held on April 26, at Luzerne Boro, the winter quarters, suburb of the city of Wilkesbarre. Chas. Lee will remain at the home office at Canton, Pa., as his health will not permit his going on the road. The show will be an eight car one, with a bill car. The main tent is a 100ft., with three __ft. middle pieces . . . Thirty-eight head of stock . . .
W. H. Quinnett has signed as contracting agent with the Campbell Bros.' Circus and Menagerie, with which show he has been connected during the past two seasons.
New York Clipper, April 13, 1901, p. 144. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Burdick & Scott's Big Shows. Things on the move in and around the winter quarters. Everything is being built brand new. All the band and tableaux wagons are painted with white running gears, while the bodies are scarlet, and scrolls are laid in gold leaf. The baggage wasgons have white gears, with dark green bodies. Al. Scott has selected sixty as fine horses as one would wish to see and which will be a credit to the show, while Eph. Burdick is busy training his ponies and mules. E. E. Pettengill, our general agent, will have four assistants, and is now busy with the printing offices, getting things in shape for the start on April 25. Our band, under the leadership of Max Weil, will consist of eight mouth pieces and two drums. Among the performers already engaged are: the Thompson Sisters, Hollowada Bros., Prof. Dave and wife, Chas. Conklin, Harry Meade and Stelly Day.
Bonheur Bros.' Show notes. J. German, the Livingstons, Oliver Tyson, Lena Deroe, G. J. Warren, Joe Campbell, Chas. Kerner, Claude West and others have signed for 1901. The new combination kinodrome machine has been greatly improved. J. R. Bonheur has recently invented and will have patented a condenser dissolver for the machine, that promises to create a revolution in projecting machines. The trained dogs, goats and ponies make a pleasing feature. The printing has been entirely changed, and is of a kind that will truthfully represent the show to the people to the very smallest degree. The date of opening is May 1, at Augusta, Okla.
Notes from Long Bros.' Palace Shows. We opened at Natchez, Miss., March 7, and have been doing an exceedingly good business for the time of year. The show is in first class shape, carrying eighty head of stock, twenty-five wagons. Big top, 70ft., with a 40ft. dressing room, 50ft. round top; side show, 50ft., with a 30ft. horse tent, 50 by 110. Everybody is well.
George H. Wymann, comedian with the Barlow Show for a number of seasons, has again signed with it as general contracting agent.
Garmena, who is filling an engagement at the New Market Theatre, Toledo, O., goes to Peru, Ind., on April 25, to join the Great Wallace Shows.
The Brobst Trio has signed with the Whitney Circus for the coming season.
Prince Wentworth, trick violinist and contortionist, and Chas. A. Clayton, strong man, have signed with Sig. Sautelle's Circus. Mr. Claton also has charge of the side show.
Earl Sisters, Hazel and Maud; ___, and the Six Eddys, left for Savannah, Ga., to join the Great Sells & Gray Circus.
Rosa Naynon is now nearing her fifth month with the Tony Lowande Circus in Cuba, and has been re-engaged for the remainder of the season, which will probably run up in the first of September.
Johnson and McDonald have the side show with the Royal Railroad Show, which opens in Omaha. The following people have signed with the side show: ___, Mme. Celstial, M. L. L. E. Omega, Lew H. Morris, Mme. Morris, Metis, the snake charmer.
Carl Hagenbeck will soon arrive in America for a tour of inspection of the zoological gardens.
New York Clipper, April 27, 1901, p. 184. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Gus Sun Railroad Shows. The Gus Sun American Minstrels will close a very prosperous season of forty weeks on May 4, having covered thirty-one states and territories, and Mr. Sun will open his railroad shows on May 25, carrying three cars, which are now undergoing thorough repairs at winter quarters. Our private sleeper, "Nellie," has just received its finishing coat of varnish. This show will go out better equipped than ever before, including a brand new top for big show, 80ft. round top, 40ft. middle piece, marqueet, etc.; side show top, 60ft. round tope; dressing room top, 30ft.; dining tent 20x30; horse tent, 40x60. We will carry about seventy-five people. Fred D. Fowler, general director, with ten men, in advance; Gus Sun, sole owner and manager; Mrs. Gus Sun, treasurer; E. W. Chipman, business manager; Harry Clair, director of band, which will include twelve solo musicians; eighteen performers, with Sam Horner, equestrian director; Mrs. E. W. Chipman, in charge of candy stand; Gustave Klotz, in charge of ticket wagon; Gus Sun and E. W. Chipman, chief doorkeepers; Chas. Smith, boss canvas man, and ten men; Ed. Jackson, chef and three assistants; Thomas McCreary, porter, in charge of cars; "Kid" Hart, boss property man, and five assistants; Chas. Bliss, wardrobe man; John Lewis, in charge of stock. Performers: Gus Sun, Mrs. Gus Sun, Louise Sun, Sadie E. Chipman, the Quillins, Loren and Ethel; Enhaus Family, James Whiting, Korvalla Bros., Sam Horner, Geo. Rialto, Jimmy Nugent, Sanders and Wolf, E. W. Chipman's troupe of trained dogs and ponies. Musicians: Harry Clair, John Bernhard, Frank Boyer, Emil Behr, Geo. Raver, Marion Abbott, Wilson N. Miller, John Link, Jules Hanson, Ed. Johnson and Mark E. Bess. Our paper is now ready, every sheet of which is special length.
The following items were sesnt from the Parque Porfiro Diaz, Mexico, under date of April 2: The Gentry Show people are so well pleased with the success here that they intend staying over Holy Week before making other interior cities. F. B. Gentry is already negotiating with John D. Bauman, the general manager of the Parque Porfiro Diaz to return in the Fall of the year with his show. The S. R. O. sign has frequently been displayed since the show has come to town, and all the peones are now trying to train their curs to do circus tricks. Frank Gentry has made many warm friends among the best people of the city, and on his return will no doubt be warmly welcomed. Mr. Gentry made a present of a beautiful trained pony to President Diaz last week, and the said pony is now the pride of the presidential stables. H. B. Gentry, Frank H. Gentry and John D. Baumann were guests of Jose Landa y Escandon at the Jockey Club the other night and were warmly received by the elite of the City of Mexico.
Buffalo Bill Wild West roster of advertising car No. 1: H. C. Hedges, car manager; F. J. O'Donell, press agent; Oliver Lester, boss bill poster; Ed. Hanson, bill poster's assistant; lithographers, Ked Wheeler, Ben Deschance, ___, F. Ward, Geo. Fraser, Ed. Boggs, C. Inman, P. Sleight, C. Lackis, P. Lawto, ?. Perrault, D. Lefever, W. Hope, S. Dwyer, J. Powers, J. Dee, J. W. Long, Ed. Byrant, chef; L. Lever, waiter; B. E. Casey, porter; Kid Werbe, programmer.
H. Percy Hill has signed as general agent and railroad contractor with Gentry's Trained Animal Show, No. 3.
The Ellet Trio, Chas., Lizzie and Della, have signed with the Great Wallace Shows, to do their aerial act. Frank Ellet goes with the John Robinson Show, to do aerial bars.
The following people are engaged for Lee Bros.' One Ring Show: Lee Bros., sole owners; Harry Young, treasurer; Owen Murray, press representative; J. A. Siegfried, superintendent of canvas; Orrin Hollis, equestrian director; Will Dexter, boss mechanic; William H. Glidden, boss hostler. Performers: Orrin Hollis and Rena McCree, Harry Higgins, Jack and Jessie Troy, Gerome Bros., ___ and Martell, Felix ___, and Berry Family, Less, Lena and Robert. The concert people are: Herbert Swift and wife, Bob Cook and Ray Gilmore. A solo concert band of ten pieces, under the directions of M. Casselli, will be carried. The show opens at Warren, R.I., May 7.
Chas. Lee's Great London Shows have been consolidated with the Price & Honeywell Shows, at Wilkesbarre, Pa. Price & Honeywell will manage the two combined shows, which require ten cars to transport. The opening is April 29, for one week, at popular prices, twenty-five cents, at the West Side Park, Wilkesbarre.
Notes from Long Bros.' Palace Shows. Business continues good, and everything is going on nicely. We added four more dapple gray mules this week. Also received a large collection of birds and animals from our agent, Walter Ralston, who is in British Honduras, C. A., collecting birds, monkeys, snakes, etc. for the show.
L. F. Sunlin and Maria Sunlin arrived in America last week. They will produce a big animal act.
Harry R. Vickers, general agent of Hargraves' Big Show, writes: "Everything is moving along nicely at the quarters of this show, and the middle of May will see manager Hargraves with as strong and as pretty an equipped wagon show as ever went out. Manager Hargraves has just engaged the Volnoirs, aerial act, five in number; Roscoe and Max, gladiators and battle axe jugglers; ___ and her performing dogs, and ___ and Frantz, comedy bars; the Yeddos, a Japanese Troupe of acrobats; ___, Roman gladiators; Wort and Kenyon, bar and perch performers, and Mlle. Franco's trained dogs and monkeys are recent additions. The paper used by this attraction has never been hung, and is novel and attractive. Geo. w. Jackson, of the Grand Opera House, Wilmington, Del., is boss bill poster, with two assistants. The advance will consist of seven men."
Magee and Dale have signed with Walter L. Main, and open April 27, at Geneva, O.
Notes from the R. Z. Orton Show. Everything is progressing nicely at winter quarters. All the stock is running fine, and the crack of the ring whip can be heard from 9 to 4 most of the time. The ground and aerial acts that have been taught during the winter are ready for the opening, which will be about the last of May. Our canvas is ready to put up and the wagons will soon be ready to receive the paint.
New York Clipper, May 4, 1901, p. 217. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Spring buds from J. C. Banks, business manager for Sig. Sautelle. Mr. Sautelle has everything new for the grand opening, in Homer, Friday, May 10. Every piece of wardrobe is of 1901 design, and in material and workmanship the finest that money can buy. Never before has the show entered upon a new campaign so well equipped. The rolling stock has come from the ships, and every piece, from the heaviest tableau wagon down to the smallest pony chariot, is a work of credit to the designer, the builder and the decorator. General agent Haley is at winter quarters, and busy getting things in readiness for sending out the first brigade of eight men the latter part of the month. The second crew of four men will leave a few days later, and the opposition force of three men will depart three days in advance of the show. No limit will be placed on the amount of paper to be used, and everything in sight will be covered with posters herald the coming. Boss hostler Smith has brought the stock from the farm, and promises to have each animal in perfect condition long before the required time. Superintendent Griffin is up early and late, and all is life and activity in this town. . . . With everything moving so smoothly, Mr. Sautelle finds the time to take a day's trout fishing now and again. As he is an expert with rod and line, he never returns without a goodly number of the speckled beauties.
Wilton, the hand balancer, is laid up with a broken rib, sustained in a fall while practicing. He has been compelled to cancel his engagement with the Forepaugh-Sells Show, with which he has been connected for the past two seasons.
The Gus Sun R. R. Shows will open May 25, near Duluth, Minn. E. W. Chipman, Harry Clair, Emil Buhr, Geo. Rialto, William Wedge Jr., Mark S. Thorne, W. Oscar Bayer, Quinlin Bros., ___ troupe of acrobats and many others have signed. Fred D. Fowler, with eight assistants, will again pilot the enterprise. The show will carry five cars and consist of about seventy-five people. Gus Sun will direct the tour.
The advance force of the Walter J. McDonald Colossal Railroad Shows is as follows: Geo. Costello, general agent; J. Cassell, local contracting agent; Harry ___, manager advance car No. 1; C. A. Clarke, special agent; ?. R. Girard, route rider; Ned Stoughton, official programmer; C. A. Snyder, boss bill poster; ___, C. A. Barker, Wm. Davis, H. D. Wright, Will Bundy, Charles Bickler, Joe Marks, ___, R. K. Billings, Rob. West, bill posters; box brigade, Henry Miller. W. Rogers, Frank Robbins, Frank Miller, Geo. Mayfield, ___ Snyder.
Richard & Co.'s Unique Show notes. We left Donaldsonville, La., our winter quarters, on March 28, for the upper country. The show has been out now four weeks, and everything is running smoothly. Jackson, La., was our banner town, and we showed within one block of the insane asylum. The doctors turned out four hundred and eighty-two of their patients for the matinee, and that night the citizens of the town packed the tent. Everyone was well pleased and gave us a rousing welcome. The roster: Mrs. Hattie Richard, owner; Joe Richard, manager; J. B. Morton, equestrian director; Dan Allen, manager side show; W. L. Brown, advance agent; J. T. Meldon, band master; John Moore, cornet; Frank Ashton, clarionet; Ted Osborn, trombone; Harry Williams, baritone; Cornell Legendria, alto; Bert Snow, tuba; Emile Stein, double drummer. Performers: Faber, Fred Le Moin, Joe Richard, Tom Moss, McDewitt, Billie St. Clair, Grace St. Clair, J. C. Smith. Performers eat and sleep at hotels, and the ghost walks every Sunday, rain or shine.
Clay Lambert, formerly correspondent for the Clipper, and at present railroad contractor for Ringling Bros.' Circus, was a recent caller at this office.
W. W. Scott (V. S.) and wife, Mme. Scott, are with the Great Wallace Show.
Harry and Ruth Orville have just completed a nine weeks' engagement over the Ohio and West Virginia circuits, and open at Clarksburg, W. Va., May 4, with the Mitchell Circus. Mr. Orville has charge of the side show and concert.
Chas. E. Griffin closed his glass show, and with his wife, Octavia, joined Ringling Bros.' Show at ___, O., April 29.
Roster of advance car No. 1, Pan-American Circus: D. S. Ward, car manager; J. Cathcart, in charge of paper; Phil McKim, lithographer; A. R. Thompson, programmer, and the following bill posters: R. Harlow, S. R. Victor, ___, A. Wilson, W. S. Jackson, C. T. Wilson, W. S. Cannon, E. E. Williams and C. W. Berry.
Notes from Harry B. Vickers, of Hargraves' Big Show. The quarters of manager Hargraves' big wagon show at present are in a hustle, as we will open May 10, with as strong a popular priced tented aggregation as ever. Jack Cousins and wife, bareback riders; Leno and Roberts, trick horse and comedy bar performers; ___, ring and perch act, are our latest additions to the show. We will open at or near Wilmington, making two and three day stands, and, judging by the manner in which manager Hargraves has his show equipped this season, there is no reason why it should not be a big winner.
"Big Charley," the huge elephant belonging to the Wallace Circus, killed Henry Hoffman, his keeper, April 25, at the headquarters of the show at Peru, Ind. . . .
Robert J. Mercer, general agent of the Royal Railroad Circus, is in Chicago, making preparations for the opening of the season, on May 1. He is making his headquarters at the Riverside Show Printing Co.
A baby camel, the first ever born in the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Show, made its advent April 28, in Madison Square Garden, New York.
E. D. Colvin has just landed a nine foot giraffe for the Ringling Bros. Circus. It is the first one to land in America in years.
Roster of Teets Bros.' R. R. Shows. Teets Bros., owners and managers; Jos. Rossella, treasurer. Performers: Teets Bros., Wm. Kyley, wire 'cyclists; Trover Bros., triple bars; Gen. W. Powell, contortionist; Jess Brown, clown; Jim Payne, pistol and ride shooting and impalement act; Mr. and Mrs. Brown, concert; the Great Minnie Sisters, aerialists. Band: J. Shelly, leader; W. H. Wheeler, cornettist; C. Barnes, cornettist; Harry Smith, baritone; Geo. J. Sousa, trombone; Geo. Eulich, alto; Jno. Teets, alto; S. Ferguson, tuba; Wilbur W. Plank, trap drummer; S. W. Hopkins, agent, with two assistants; Chas. Cooper, boss canvas man, with twelve men; Ed. Davidson, boss props, with three men; F. Myers, boss hostler; Jess Brown and wife will put on the side show; Geo. Sousa will make balloon ascensions and parachute jumps daily. Will travel in our own train of cars. Everything is new and finely painted and decorated. We have a new 80ft. top, with two 40ft. middle pieces; 30ft. dressing room; 50ft. side show tent, eight banners. The show will run the year 'round. We have just received a new marka from Thompson & Vanderveer. This makes the sixty-seventh year of this show on the road. It is not the largest, but one of the best of its size traveling. Everybody is busy around winter quarters getting ready for our opening on April 30, at Grayson, Ky. We will use special paper made by the Donaldson Litho. Co.
Roster of Barlow's Refined Show. We will open the season at Syracuse, Ind., May 4. Ed. P. Barlow, sole owner; George H. Wymans, general contracting agent. Performers: Jessie Saners and wife, bars, contortionists, baton spinning; W. D. McIntyre, knockabout clown; Malcom Anderson, juggler; William Lorella, balancing traps, wire barrel and cross foot juggler; Billie Weaver, all around comedian; Alvin Storer, marionettes and ventriloquist; Frank Parrett, magician; the Barlow Sisters, in comic and sentimental songs. The show will be stronger than ever.
New York Clipper, May 11, 1901, p. 232. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Campbell Bros.' Great Consolidated Show notes. We opened our season at Fairbury, Neb., April 27. The weather was fair and the show did a great business, the capacity of the tent being tested afternoon and night. The performance was highly appreciated, and went like clock work under the capable direction of Lee Greer, the equestrian director. Dock Campbell, the business manager of the show, was particularly busy. The parade was a glittering pageant from the band wagon to the caliope, with was played by Bud Horn. Al. Campbell's dogs and ponies won great applause, as did almost every act that went in the ring. Among the principal performers are: ___ Family of oriental acrobats, Rydon and Nelson, troupe of four aerialists and bar performers; Smith, the head balancer; the Brandons, Del Fuego and a number of other clowns kept the audience in uproar. The riding of Alex Lowande and John Rooney was of the best, and highly appreciated. J. C. O'Brien is license adjuster, and also has a number of privileges. Lew Nichols is manager of the side show, and Abe Crocket has the candy stands.
Russell's Big Vaudeville Circus notes. We opened at ___, Wash., April 22, to a packed tent, notwithstanding the heavy rain. We carry thirty-two people, all told, with band of twelve pieces, under the leadership of Prof. C. R. A. Hohmaun. Following are the performers: the Four Princes . . . the Great Atlas, Whitmore and Lozell, La Meer Bros., De La Mar Sisters, ___ Russell, Baby Gladice, Perry Davidson, J. F. Walch. We are playing along the Columbia River by steamboats. Wiil catch our train of cars at South Bend, Wash., May 1. We carry a 70ft. round top, with 30ft. middle piece. Our route is through Puget Sound to British Columbia, Eastern Wash., Idaho and Oregon. Everything about the show is entirely new. Business staff: E. S. Russell, proprietor and manager; Will C. Sterling, general agent.
The camp this season with the Walter L. Main Shows will be first class in every respect, we are informed. Everything will be new, neat and modern. The new Pullman sleepers have arrived and everybody is pleased with the comfortable quarters they will have with this show. The opening day was May 4.
Notes from Ring Bros.' Shows. We have just secured Van Amburg & Gallagher's Wagon Show, which we intend to consolidate with our own, the Ring Bros. We will then have one of the largest and finest wagon shows on the road this season. Show will open at Hoosick Falls, N.Y., May 16, which is Van Amburg & Gallagher's winter quarters.
Buffalo Bill's Wild West roster of car No. 2: alf. Riel, car manager; Tom Dranfield, superintendent of excursion; W. Shea, boss bill poster; excursion agents, H. A. Morrison, Geo. Houghialing, Rube Dranfield, Kid Goodwin, G. Lamont, F. Bruso, Terry McGovern, F. Warren, Geo. Nelson; town men, R. Ryley, G. Albert, ___; banner, J. Gothhold, J. Costello; lithographers, G. Green and F. Martin; C. Ross, car porter.
Notes from the W. H. Scott's Big Shows. Everything is rapidly nearing completion at winter quarters. Mr. Scott has severed his connection with Mr. Burdick and puts the show out alone. He has enlarged the show, having purchased the entire outfit of the Louis Crescent Shows. The latest features added are: the Two Mardos, the Three ___, and the Brodys (James and Kitty). All are anxiously looking for the opening date, May 11, at Madison, O.
New York Clipper, May 18, 1901, p. 255. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Williams Great Northern Show. We opened at Milwaukee, April __, for one week, to great business. We are now making ___ night stands. This is one of the swellest five car shows on the road. It is headed by Prof. E. Williams, animal trainer, with his troupe of horses, dogs, ponies, mules, monkeys and bears. The performers with the company are: Myeres and Rosa, the Irvings, Ward, Burgess and Rice, ___, Johnny Fox. Our school of merry makers and clowns includes: ___, Burgess, Joseph, Rockwell, headed by the well known Irish clown and Shakesperean jester, James Murphy. The feature in the great museum department is the Davis Family of spotted people. Prof. Williams, sole owner; Rhoda Williams, treasurer; ___, manager; Fred J. Owens, privileges.
Harry Potter, of the Potter Family, is the happy father of a baby girl born to his wife May 3, at their home in this city. Mother and daughter are doing well.
The advance for Chas. Lee's Great London Show is as follows: Wm. Sloman, general agent; Frank Burns, car manager; Frederick Behrens, local contractor; ___, special agent; Paul Hubbard, ___ rider; ___, official programmer; Bob Dean, boss bill poster; James Johnson, W. R. Nobles, John Haley, William Porter, Geo. S. White, ___, James Flynn, lithographers; Chas. Barlow, R. Drainger, William Allen, banner men; Max Jordan, Walter Welch, box brigade . . .
New York Clipper, May 25, 1901, pp. 279, 281. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Goodrich Shows. We opened our season in Bridgeport, Ct., April __, to the capacity of the canvas, and, while the show has encountered plenty of rainly weather, the business has been such that it will leave a considerable amount on the right side of the ledger. This season the show is featuring the hippodrome races, and the various participants enter into the sport with a dash and vim that imparts to the races an enjoyable excitement. The show is new from marquee to dressing room, carries ninety people, and has seventy head of stock and ten cages of animals. The roster: Jas. W. Goodrich, manager; A. G. Southey, treasurer; Louis Hoffman, press; Chas. Watson, jockey act and equestrian director; Nicholas Caballos, high wire; Mrs. Caballos, single traps; Pearl Foster, principal riding act; Alice Bradley, menage act; Al. ___, head balancing trapeze; ___, contortionist; Mr. Goodwin, talking and singing clown; Homer ___, Shakespearean jester; Joe Horner, cloud swing; Kendrick Bros., aerial bars; Haines Bros., return act. Manager Goodrich is introducing his trained ponies and dogs to good results. Al. Merriew has charge of the band of fourteen musicians. William Parker has charge of the canvas. T. Clark, charge of the stock. Paul Heinrick has charge of the culinary department. Harry ___ has the side show and is featuring the half man and half horse.
Notes from the Rippel Family Shows. We opened at Gaston, Ind., April 29, to good business. At Matthews, Ind., we were unable to accommodate the crowds, and we did fair business at Eaton and Red Key. The show met with its first "blow down" at Red Key, which came in time to spoil the evening performance, and at Ridgeville a gasoline tank exploded, seriously burning Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Rippel, which closed the show for week of May 14. Masters Charlie and Jack Rippel have been doing good work. Gertie Leon, high wire performer, is winning new friends. Miss Gardner is leading the orchestra, it being her first season out. W. Odell is doing a couple of good acts, besides holding down the ticket wagon. The show is carrying sixteen people and will make the northern part of Indiana for the season, closing with a week stand in Muncie.
Notes from Bowman's Big Vaudeville Circus. We opened our summer season under canvas at Jeannette, Pa., on May 11, in a drenching rain, just after the parade, to the capacity of the top. The following is the complete roster: Harry Bowman, proprietor and manager; Chas. Cribbs, advance, with two bill posters; Frank Carey, slack wire and traps; Edgar ___, slack wire and traps; Bert Bacon, club swinger; Hay Breining, talking and singing clown; Jas. Flowers, buck and wing dancer; Prof. Staley's troupe of educated horses; Jacob Bowman, Clyde Bowman, Mike Casper, Milt Spangler, Bert George and Prof. Smouse's band of the following musicians: T. Edgar Smouse . . . Dock Flowers, Chas. Arnold, Eddie Vance, ___, and Will Murry.
Joseph La Fleur joined the Ringling Bros.' Shows at Wilkesbarre, Pa., May 13. This is his sixth consecutive season with that show.
Harry R. Vickers, general agent Hargreave's Big Show, writes: This attraction opened its second season at Salem, N.J., May 14, to packed tents. The opening night's performance ran smoothly and positive hits were made by Fred Locke and his troupe of performing horses, Jack Cousins and his wife, Lottie Aymar, the Valentines, the St. Julians, Nellie Leonard, the Great Tessie, and others of this organization. The side show, under the direction of manager Uptergraph, is an excellent one, consisting of seven good specialty acts. Ninety head of stock and eighty-eight people make up this outfit, with a brigade of seven people equipped with fine paper. Our parade is a feature. Everything is new and bright, with stock in good condition, and manager Hargreaves is happy. The advance brigade has a handsome turnout in the form of a tally ho, drawn by three spotted horses.
Gillmore's Great American Circus roster: Bert Gillmore, proprietor and manager; James Gillmore, treasurer and ticket seller; Ed. Horan, equestrian director. Performers: Gillmore Trio, Frank Vincent, Lottie Gillmore, Matt Aldine, Frank and Lena Keyes, Arthur Silverlake and Bert Gillmore. Sam Cohen, superintendent of privileges; Red Hanson, superintendent of canvas, and ten assistants. The show opened May 11, at Oak Harbor, O., to packed tents, and gave excellent satisfaction. The principal feature is the balloon ascension . . .
The Gus Sun R. R. Shows will open the last of May, at Ashland, Wis. We are advised that the Elks of that place have purchased the opening performance of Mr. Sun, and it is their intention to make the show on that date the occasion of their annual spring carnival. The body has already sent out their committee with two thousand tickets.
Bay State Frank and Marion Lynch, of Chas. Lee's Circus, are at their home for the summer.
Spring notes from Capt. W. D. Ament's Circus. We opened at Muscatine, Ia., April 17, to phenomenal business. We have had some ideal circus weather the past two weeks. At Clinton, Ia., Geo. Childs, a retired farmer, tried to get the mayor to refuse us a license, but the mayor stood by the circus. At Dixon, Ill., we opened to a record breaker and at Rockford we had to close the doors at eight o'clock. We have had several accidents, but fortunately no one has been seriously hurt. Dan Rice's trick mule ran away with Charlie Potts, our advance agent, and dragged him feet first one hundred yards, but beyond a good scare Mr. Potts was uninjured. Harry Koster fell headlong from his trapeze at Rock Island, but was uninjured. At Freeport, Litle Fay Duffy threw her arm out of joint by turning hand springs, but will be OK in a few days. Fred Adkins, who has lately taken charge of the band, is putting up the best music ever heard with the Ament Show. The show is running very smoothly now, and every act is making a success. Mr. and Mrs. Frank Casad, and Mattie Meehan and her dogs join next week.
W. J. Carter, brother of Belle Carter, is successful as general agent for the Skerbeck Show.
Lucky Bill's notes. We opened our eighth season in Lewiston, Minn., May 4, with everything brand new. The show is much larger than last season. The business staff is: Wm. Newton (Lucky Bill), sole proprietor; A. J. Wayne, business manager; Mrs. Newton, treasurer; Jim Gibson, stage manger; ___ Raymond, band master; Mrs. Newton, musical director; Bert ___, chandalier man . . . Performers: . . . Flo Gibson and Jim Nash . . . Frank Riley, Capt. Horton and wife, ___ and her troupe of trained monkeys, Shetland ponies and high diving dog; Delbert and wife, Lettle Master Gibson, Baby Newton, The Delbert Children, the Waynes. Our route is through Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa and Nebraska.
New York Clipper, June 1, 1901, p. 297. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Hall & Long's Big City Show notes. We opened at Portland, __, April 29, for three nights. The show is first class in all respects and is making good all along the line. . . . We play all three day and week stands, and the business always get larger at the close of the engagement. This is a railroad show and is transported in two cars, a combination dining and sleeping car and a baggage car. . . . The performers with the show: F. C. Hall, balancing, traps and hat spinning . . . Frank Christopher, man of mystery; William Rawls, contortionist, clown and monologue; Owen Albert, slack wire; Jessie Hall, ___ songs; Long and Killmar, living pictures and statuary; Prof. Martell and troupe of dogs. Our concert consists of illustrated trips of travel, art and motion pictures, in charge of F. C. Hall.
Roster of Harper Bros.' Great Amercian Shows, Circus and Menagerie. P. N. Harper, sole owner; Ed. Garvie, manager; Frank Tracey, contracting agent; Abe Hoffman, in charge of first brigade; Steve Morey, second brigade, with six men; Geo. Lundgreen, treasurer; Frank McNulty, boss canvas man, with ten men . . . thirty head of stock. Performers: ___, acrobats; Prof. Bristol's school of trained horses and mules; the Lundgreens, revolving ladder and slack wire . . . Mons. Martell, rings; Bristol's dogs and leaping greyhounds; Prof. H. Swift's concert band of twelve pieces. Concert: . . . Lillian Lee, Swift and Zola, ___, La Grande Sisters, Felix Langway . . . The show is touring New England.
Notes from Russell's Big Vaudeville Circus, playing through the Northwest. This is our fifth week under canvas. We carry twenty-six people all told . . . we travel by rail, and have a new 70ft. combination car, just out of the Pullman ships. Our roster: E. S. Russell, proprietor and manager; Will W. Sterling, advance agent; Prof. Holman, leader of band . . . The Four Princes left us to join the Midway and Oriental Carnival Company, May 8, at Portland, Ore. We play to S. R. O. about four or five days a week.
Roster of advance of the Royal Railroad Shows. ___ Mercer, general agent; Doc Johnson, boss billposter, with five assistants; ___, lithographer; J. C. Walker, programmer.
Notes from Skerbeck's Great R. R. Show. We opened May __, at Medford, Wis., and although the weather was cold and stormy, the attendance was large, and business has been good ever since. The show is larger than ever, having new features, and traveling in our train of ___cars. Anton Skerbeck's troupe of educated ponies and dogs, and Prof. Burns' troupe of trick horses are carried. People are: Frank Halloway, Mrs. F. Halloway, Prof. H. Payne, Mrs. H. Payne, Robbins and Childers, Fred Meier, Otis Miller, Ed. Danbruch, A. Robinson, ___, P. Bradford, F. W. Brooks, ___, Col A. Phillips, Prof. F. Burns . . . R. W. Herrick . . . H. De Forest.
The Orvilles, equilibrists and aerialists, joined Ringling Bros. May 27, at Worcester, Mass. This will be their second season with that show.
New York Clipper, June 8, 1901, pp. 315, 323, 328. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes of Reno's Oriental Shows. We opened at Kankakee, Ill., May 10. Everything has been coming our way, and the weather has been ideal. We are packing them in at every stand, and have struck good roads and no opposition. We feature our band, under the leadership of Gene Stevens. We will take a trip through Indiana, Illinois and Michigan. Our roster: De Haven, horizontal bars and revolving ladder; Cahs. Alderfer, head balancing; Al. Vade, swinging perch and juggling act; Chas. Stone, single traps and high wire; Herman Voquet, contortion and drum major; Emily Reno, slack wire, breakaway ladder; Prof. Reno, magic, trained dogs and mules. Our concert has been a winner, the feature act being the club swinging of Cora Loftus. . . . The Walter L. Main New Fashion Plate Show notes. We have been doing a phenomenal business. At Gloversville, N.Y., it proved a turn away, while at Cohoes and North Adams they were crowded to the ring bank. The new press sheet just issued contains notices from thirty-four newspapers, representing the eighteen cities played to that date, and all are enthusiastic. The show is certainly giving excellent satisfaction. Arthur Borrelly is still at the Lackawana Hospital, but reports from him state that his rheumatism is on the improve. "Billy" Harrington, the rough rider, joined the show last week. Four new baby cub lions were born on Decoration Day, and are doing nicely. A beautiful dun colored horse, valued at $325, dropped dead during the parade at Watertown. Manager of advance, Edw. C. Knupp, visited the show at North Adams. Al Ringling was a guest of Prof. Dockrill, at Cohoes, on Decoration Day.
Notes from Geo. W. Hall's Shows, enroute through Illinois. We have had very few real circus days so far, but, notwithstanding the cold weather, we have done a good business, and at several towns have sold standing room. Our baby elephant, Pearl, has proved a great attraction. . . .
Del Fuego was recently tendered a banquet by the K. of P. Lodge, while he was at Deadwood, So. Dak., with the Campbell Bros.' Show, and turned people away both evening and night of that day, we are informed. The clown band, which is headed by Del Fuego, as Sou Sou, is a big success.
Notes from Long Bros.' Refined Palace Shows. At Poplarville, Miss., on May 29, manager Long tendered a large reception dinner to the members of the company, numbering eighty, in honor of the second anniversary of his show. The dinner was a fine one, and our efficient steward, Robte White, and cook, Wm. Black, deserve much credit for the excellent style in which it was served. The show is doing a good business.
Lula Mitchell has joined hands with Myra Deane, and they are with the Great Wallace Show. They are having a new sketch written for next season.
Notes from Barlow's Refined Show. Our business, considering weather, has been good. We are now making Indiana and will close our season in Ohio. Our winter quarters at South Milford, Ind., is being arranged in a complete manner. We have a training room, paint room and wood workers' shop, and room for twelve head of horses and wagons.
Arthur Borelly [sic Borella?] was compelled to close with Walter L. Main's Show at Scranton Pa., on account of a severe attack of rheumatism. He has been confined to the Lackawanna Hospital, that city, for the past two weeks.
New York Clipper, June 15, 1901, pp. 341, 345, 347. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Roster of Rigall Bros.' Circus, Vaudeville and Congress of Trained Animals. Rigall Bros., proprietors and managers; Harry Castello, equestrian director; Prof. E. J. Anderson's Concert Band of sixteen pieces; Prof. Patton, leader of orchestra. Performers: Bros. Dashington, Sully and Mack, Deonzo, Boss Harrison, Virginia Rankin, Le Vette Sisters, Snidre and Cope, Castello and Boen, Eaton Bros., Jerry Dashington, Willie Dashington, J. P. Mack, J. C. Sully, Ed. Carothers, Wm. Carothers. Musicians: Prof. E. J. Anderson, Nick Roberts, Lote Patten, E. J. Harrison, James Palmer, Wm. Morris, H. Gardner, J. Mann, Wm. Smith, F. Burt, C. George, H. C. Peppl, C. Jones, H. Robinson, ?. Howard, J. Lenna. We carry an 80ft. round top, with two 40ft. middle pieces; one __ft. dressing room, two __ft. horse tents; side show 50x30. Jack Palmer, boss canvas man, with twelve assistants; Lightning ___, boss property man, with four assistants; J. D. Rigall, charge of advance with four assistants; R. H Frizzell, lithographer; Slim Evans, boss bill poster; Chas. McCombs, chef; Dan Perrin, boss hostler, with six assistants. We re touring Indiana to good business. We are on our third week, with phenomenal business. Started from Grayville, Ill., and have had some bad weather, but have not missed a show.
Roster of the excursion car of John Robinson's Ten Big Shows, under the direction of Wm. M. Dale: Cuddy Service, superintendent of decorations, with his subordinates, Edward C. Jones, Robert Eldridge, Charles Stogdon, Frank Fay Smith, Wm. Hicks, Eugene Goslyn, ___, Geo. K. O'Brien, W. J. Slattery, John E. Wise, Morgan Johnson, Otto Post, GeorgeFiester, ___, J. H. Fitchie, Mark Wiggins and Walter South. It is the pleasant duty of Jeremiah Donovan to humor the natives for the use of their spacious windows, and the handiwork of the above mentioned indisputable live one, after their departure from the numerous outlying hamlets that are fortunate enough to occupy space on local R. R. schedules, is praisworthy in the extreme.
Roster of the Sam Dock Shows. Sam Dock, proprietor and manager; John F. Shavers, press agent, with show; K. E. Iseminger, general agent; Jas. Musselman, superintendent; Wm. Gross, boss hostler; H. Kline, chief cook. Performers: Ammon Musselman, Claira Dock, Jno. Norman, Sadie Dock, Frank Mason and Sam Dock and his trained ponies, donkeys and dogs. Musicians: Chas. Byers, H. Sites, John Shearer, John Norman . . .
Bonheur Bros.' Show notes. The show is doing a fine business, better, in fact, than in any former season. Everything is new and several fine horses have been added. A matched pair of milk white Arabian mares, cross between Shetland and white Arabs, were purchased for ring stock and will be trained for riding act. They are beauties. At Caldwell, Kan., the night crowd was large.
Notes from Whitney's Big One Ring Show. Business with us has been big since the opening, May 4, despite the rainy weather, and things with the big show go humming. Our new big top, which we expect to be delivered about July 1, will be 80x120, and we will start the "dry" season with a brand new outfit. Complete roster: A. V. Whitney, proprietor; C. A. Whitney, general manager; W. Walbourn, business manager; Al. Martin, musical director; Frank Stapleton, master of transportation; E. S. Murphy, general agent in charge of advance brigade; L. P. Whitney, privileges; C. R. Simmons, boss canvas man, with five assistants; the Two Geyers, juggling, rolling globe and acrobats; Brobst Trio, singers and dancers; the Walbourns, statuary; Darnello, flying traps and rings; Thomas, chair pyramid; the Zaros, head balancing, contortion, perch and grotesque comedy; Whitney and Thomas, revolving ladder; Prof. Al. Martin's Silver Band, Al Martin. H. L. Howard, Fred Martin, A. Charron, Burt Mitchell, Geo. F. Brobst, W. Ingley, Bert Newman and L. P. Whitney. Lee Whitney is our hustling mail agent.
Notes from the Walter L. Main Show. It is the same story of phenomenal success with Walter L. Main's New Fashion Plate Shows, and at every stand the business has been beyond all expectations. At Waltham, Mass., and exceedingly heavy rain storm, which lasted all night, failed to dampen the ardor of enthusiasts, and when the grand entree took place fully nine thousand people were there to applaud the different acts. It was without doubt the most appreciative audience ever gathered within our tent, and it would be a difficult matter to determine which act carried off the laurels, as each performer was given a reception that amounted to an ovation. The Congregational Church of Haverhill have asked the use of the big top for a revival meeting Sunday, which request was granted.
In advance of the Goodrich Show, the Goodrich, Hoffman & Southey Show Co., owners. Roster: A. G. Southey, contractor; J. J. Brolly, assistant contractor; Jos. Fitzgerald, boss bill poster. First bill posting wagon: bill posters - George Mather, George Caron, Walter Jones, Henry Redding, Wm. Hardwick, James McIntyre, Walter McAuley, boss lithographer; Frank Millwood and George Penway, assistants. Second wagon - Edward Tyron, in charge; Milton Jackson and Horace Hemingway, bill posters. Third wagon: couriers - Frank Merrill, in charge; Louis Peck and Richard McLaughlin assistants. We have been on the road six weeks, and it has been a very wet season so far, but we have no reason for complaint. The pay day comes every two weeks and with it comes the pay. We are putting out about twelve hundred sheets of paper daily.
Woods and Lincoln joined the Great Wallace Circus at Cleveland, O., on Decoration Day, for the remainder of the season.
Skerbeck's Great One Ring R. R. Show, which, during the last twenty years has become popular throughout the Northwest, informs us that they are breaking all their previous records this season.
Notes from W. D. Ament's Big City Show. In spite of rain, cold and opposition, business with us is simply phenomenal. For two weeks we have not been able to paste any paper on account of opposition shows, but it has made no difference in the box office receipts. Dan Rice's mules and pigs closed June 3. The Beahan Trio and Mattie Meahan's school of trained dogs filling the place. At present writing our show is exceptionally strong. Mrs. Ament, our treasurer, has gone home with Capt. Ament's little son, Harold, who is very ill with rheumatism and spinal trouble. Mrs. Ament is greatly missed about the show, and the extra work falls hard on the captain. Decoration Day was a big day for the show at increased prices. We are just entering the cream of our territory, and prospects are very encouraging. We had a very pleasant visit with the Pawnee Bill Show at Elgin.
Roster advance car No. 1, John Robinson's Ten Big Shows: ?. I. Ellis, manger; C. S. Cooley, boss bill poster; W. H. Bullen, lithographer; Joe Donasin, paste maker. Following is a list of bill posters: R. E. Parsons, Fred. Jones, Tom Foster, Walter RAy, Doc. Ingram, F. N. Stevens, Dusty Miller, Harry Bell, G. W. Skitler, James Anderson, Floyd Turner, Ben Cullen, __ Wilson, Joe Gilford.
Notes from the side show with the Great Pan-American Shows. Business has been something phenomenal in this department this season. B. J. Chipman, manager and orator; W. F. Palmer and Joe Lacey, ticket sellers; Henry Noyes, ticket seller and concert announcer; "Skinny" Rosenthal, lecturer, with the following people: La Belle Sitts and troupe of Oriental dancers, five in number, with Shiek Haja's band of Turkish musicians and sword fighters, four in number; ___, Circassian; Joe Lacaey, Albino; Mons. ___, human ostrich; Mlle. Leola, snakes; the Dalys, second sight; Karoo, Zulu chief; S. Rosenthal, Punch and Judy; Mlle. Carlotta, three headed illusion; Prof. Carlson's white band of eight; Jack Austin, boss canvas man with seven assistants.
Mrs. Philip Diefenbach, widow of the well known circus manager of that name, died June 8, at her home in Hamilton, O., aged fifty-six years. In former years Mrs. Diefenbach was wardrobe woman with the Old Dan Rice and John Robinson Circuses, when she was known as Maggie Roe. She leaves a daughter.
New York Clipper, June 22, 1901, pp. 364, 367. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Teets Bros. R. R. Shows notes. We are meeting with success through the southern states, notwithstanding plenty of opposition and bad weather. Upon coming into the West Virginia coal fields on June 6, we passed three tent shows on a run of seventeen miles. Two of them were wrecked, having been caught in the storm the night before. Our large canvas, however, withstood the wind and rain, and we packed them to the ring bank at Vivian, W. Va., on May 5, although we had the worst storm of the season. There have been no changes in our roster since the opening, with the exception of Jim Francis, juggler, who joined us June _. The last week of May was the largest week's business that this show ever had in its sixty-five years of prosperity. Everybody is enjoying good health, and the boys are all accumulating blue papers. Jess Brow's big snake died on May 28. He has replace it with one three feet longer. Our performance runs like clock work, and gives universal satisfaction. Joe Rosella and Floyd Trover are having great sport fishing, and are supplying the table with the finny tribe.
The Blair Sisters, Lizzie and Maggie, are en route with the Great Wallace Circus, doing their boxing act.
H. Bonheur, of the Bonheur Bros.' Show, writes: "A cyclone struck us at Beaumont, Kan., Friday night, June 7. The cook wagon was damaged by being thrown on its side. No one was hurt. Much damage was done to farm houses in the country north of the town. A field of eighty acres of flax was cut level with the ground by the hail that followed the cyclone."
Roster of Richard & Co.'s Unique Shows: Joe and Hattie Richard, owners; J. B. Morton, manager; W. L. Brown, general agent and contractor; Frank Miller, in charge of first brigade, with two assistants; Chas. Lantry, second; Shirley Martin, boss canvas man, with ten men; Jap Bastro, in charge of forty head of stock, with five men. Mrs. Richard just purchased a large team of horses for her sleeping wagon. The show has __ft. top, with 30ft. middle, 40x56 side show top, dressing room and horse tent combined. Performers: La Le Moines, brother act; Joe Richard's trained ponies; the Richards, aerialists; Tom Moss, juggler and slack wire; Ed. Faber, ground, pyramid and aerial contortionist; Shirley Bourgoygne, flying rings and trapeze; the Osbornes, clowns; Prof. T. J. Weldon's band of nine pieces. Concert: Faber and Stein, Smith, Osborne, Lantry and Davis, Bertie Brown. The show is touring southern Arkansas, with very good success.
Notes from Ament & Edwin's Circus. Wet weather and cyclones do not seem to check the business we have been doing for the past two weeks. The show is giving the best of satisfaction. At Streator, Ill., last week, we played to 5,000 paid admissions in three days. T. K. Edwins, of Elwood,Ind., has lately bought an interest in the show and is proving a valuable aid to Capt. Ament, whose health was fast breaking down with over work. Things are moving along very smoothly now and the show will be greatly improved and more live stock will be added.
Notes from the Geo. W. Hall Jr. Circus and Menagerie. We are having real circus weather now, and it is a common thing to play to the capacity of the tent.
Skerbeck's Great One Ring Railroad Show inform us that they are doing phenomenal business. W. J. Carter is general agent in advance.
Notes from Frank Adams' Southern Railroad Show. The show laid up at Orange, Va., for two weeks to rest the members and paint up. Mr. Adams purchased the two sleeping cars from the Rhoda Royal Show known as Esther and Washington. At present, however, we are only using the one sleeper, having leased the other car for three months. Business is fair, but the weather has been extremely hot. The show will not close before Feb. 10, and then only two weeks for rest and fresh paint.
New York Clipper, June 29, 1901, pp. 385, 387. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Colonel Hicks writes from Singapore [Harmston's]: "We have just returned from a far East trip through China, where we arrived Jan. 10, and played a seven weeks' engagement at Hong Kong and finished up with a nine week's stay at Manila, where our season was even a greater success, although Manila was at that time having plenty of excitement. We were there when Aguinalod was captured, and we renewed many pleasant friendships. The Lucifers, who played two seasons through Java, India and Burmah, were playing the Alhambra, and have been a strong card for seven months. Our new company arrived at Hong Kong and made their first appearance in Manila. The Jansons, Mlle. Leisa and Carlo Venturini are German artists; the Alton Trio, acrobats; Charles Burch, equestrian; Cusco, clown, and the quartette of acrobatic ladies, all made a success, while Charles Weatherby, the man of music, was a great hit. Mrs. Harmston Love's two children, Nellie and Willie, are good riders and perform a high wire act. This week were are celebrating our eleventh year without a break in the East, at our headquarters at Langon, Kaluny, the seaside home of Mr. and Mrs. Love, five miles from Singapore. During the time since leaving San Francisco on the steamship Alarneday, for Australia, the only resting spell has been on shipboard, and we still retain some of the original members of the company. We leave here for a season of four months in Java, opening in Batavia, Java, June 4. Among the Javanese and Dutch residents we are always sure of a welcome. Chas. H. Bruce is still band master and is the proud father of a boy. Manager Love purchased several fine Kentucky thoroughbreds at Manila, so with our American, English, Australian and Arab horses, we have one of the finest studs ever seen in the far East. Gus Burns, formerly of Sells Bros., has charge of the performing animals."
C. S. Baldwin has resigned as manager of Williams & Co.'s Great Northern Shows and joined Sturgis' Cincinnati Carnival Co., at Port Huron, Mich.
Notes from the New Rutter Show. We opened at Lancaster, Pa., where we held a seven days' engagment, to turn away business at each performance. And history repeated itself each week with us until we were obliged to add a new middle piece to our already large top. At Elizabethtown, Pa., we were givn a royal reception by our landlord, J. C. Shafer and his wife. Mr. Shafer is an ex-professional, and as a landlord is simply immense. Following is roster: Martin Rutter, manager; Newton Rutter, advance; Geo. E. May, equestrian director; Harry Armstrong, leader of band and orchestra, with twelve solo concert musicians; the famous Armstrong Family, Swiss bell ringers, five in number; W. Craig, Shields and Goldey, J. Zeller, Joe Kearney, John Warner, Fred Whitlock, John Shanke, W. Wilson, Don Hugo. The little show is a money getter.
New York Clipper, July 6, 1901, p. 407. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes on the Walter L. Main All New Big Fashion Plate Shows. Everything is running smoothly. We have added about twenty head of stock and four cars, and will have two more in a few days. The show at its opening did not appear to be the proper size, and we have had stuff built and shipped on just as fast as it could be made, while the seating capacity was not large enough to hold the throngs that gathered to see us. Although we met cold, rain and opposition almost daily for the past five weeks, the business has been most satisfactory, with scarcely any poor days, and since the weather has cleared the business has been something phenomenal. Never in the history of the Main Show has it done such an enormous business as it has done in the past two weeks. Letters from Geneva inform us that the new triple side track on Main's farm, a mile west of town, has been completed by the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern people, and that the new winter quarters are now well under way. They will all be of brick and iron. The main building, now about half completed, will be two stories high, 120x240ft., of brick and iron. Other buildings will be begun as soon as this is completed. The contracts call for the entire quarters to be completed by Oct. 1. The old quarters in the village have been turned into a manufacturing plant. Main's beautiful Trumbull farm, seven miles south of Geneva, will be retained for the baggage stock, but everything else will be kept at the new winter quarters, just sixty minutes' ride from Ohio's largest city. Both the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern and Nickel Plate roads go through this farm, and the electric road from Ashtabula to Cleveland will pass within one minute's walk of the main building at the new winter quarters. The strength of the Main Show was demonstrated in Wilkesbarre and Scranton. The latest addition in the way of performers are: the Martell Family of bicyclists, Dan O'Brien and wife, Dan O'Brien, principal leaper; Joe Judge and sons, acrobats; several new clowns and five genuine military rough riders. Mme. Marautette bought at Lexington, Ky., a $700 menage horse, which was shipped to the show by express, and has just arrived. One noticeable feature of the Main Show this year is the harmony in which all the heads of departments and bosses are working. Therefore, we are on time every day, have not lost a performance and have not been later than 12 o'clock with a parade. Everyon is highly pleased with the camp and sleeping accommodations.
J. B. Clarke, bill poser for Ringling Bros.' Show, is very ill at Peoria, Ill., in the hotel.
Notes from the Great London Shows, en route through Michigan. This show is everywhere giving satisfaction. At Lansing, Mich., the home of managers Robson and Granger, were tendered a large reception and supper after the evening performance. Our roster: Robson and Granger, managers; M. Williams, general agent; L. Frank Morrison, treasurer; Harry Steiner, lithographer; Geo. Collins, programmer; Lew Harvey and Bert Warner, bill posters; the Three Wintermert Brothers, Harry Barani, John Camer, A. W. Carle, D. J. Robson, L. E. Grander, Edw. Conway, Earle Van, Henry Berbeck, C. A. Hamilton, Emil Hass, M. L. Stalford, Nat Ellis, S. W. Webster, F. E. Newton, Geo. Drummond, Tony Murphy, John C. Well, Frank Whittier, John Frohman, Fritz and Williams, Sisters Vardena, Fannie Veile, Mertie and Vanie Russell, Merle Drummons, Geo. and Mea Drummons, Arthur and Nellie Barlow, and L. Frank Morrison.
Richards & Co.'s Unique Shows played Fulton, Ark., June 7, to big business, and moved on next day to the next stand. They have played every day since the opening.
The Walter L. Main Show is now touring the eastern cities and towns of the state of Maine. After July 4, when they play Cornish, the company leaves Maine for New Hampshire, having been in Maine since June 15.
Three employees of Ringling Bros.' Circus were sleeping under an emplty car, when the shunting engine struck the car. Barney Murphy, of Buffalo, had a leg taken off; Edward Clerkin, of Ogdensburg, __, lost a big toe, and Charles Taylor, of Montreal, escaped injury.
Ringling Bros.' Circus ended its Canadian tour at Chatham, June 26, entering the United States by way of Port Huron. . . . Eighteen cities were played, and on the next trip it is likely one month will be put in Canadian territory.
[London, Canada] Ringling Bros.' Circus drew packed tents June 24. They put in a Sunday here, and services were held on the show grounds by Wm. Marks, a clown who intends entering the ministry at the close of the season. The license was reduced from $200 to $50 for the circus.
New York Clipper, July 13, 1901, pp. 421, 425. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
A severe wind storm swept over Grand Island, Neb., July 4, injuring a number of people and doing a great deal of damage. Most of the damage in that city was done at the Gentry Show, which was blown away. The cages were overturned and many valuable animals killed. The tents were ripped to pieces, and the circus property scattered over a space of twenty miles by two miles wide. When the tent was ripped to pieces the crowd attempted to escape from the tangle of ropes and wires, and then the seats collapsed. The high wind was followed almost immediately by a torrent of rain, and this added to the confusion. The injured could not be relieved for an hour, so fierce was the wind and rain. It is not at present known whether any professionals with the show were killed or injured.
Immediately after the afternoon performance given by Wallace's Circus, at Eau Claire, Wis., June 28, the worst electric storm ever known in that city swept over it, working much havoc. Wallace's trick elephant, "Ella," valued at $3,000, was killed outright, while several employees and many of the animals were stunned. The high wind that prevailed tore the main and side tents in such an extent that the evening performance had to be abandonded. . . . damage to the circus management is estimated at fully $10,000. . . .
Harry Knowlton, press agent of the Walter L. Main Show, writes: "In honor of the Fourth all performers and animals will be decked with the national colors. We will also wake up the town of ___ with quite an elaborate display of daylight fireworks. . . .
Art Adair, the clown and character comedian with Ringling Bros.' Circus, has introduced a new version of the clown band by putting all the clowns on stilts, forming a staircase effect. Art and Dot Adair are preparing a new specialty for vaudeville for the winter.
Complete roster of Walter L. Main's Big Show: Cecil Lowande, principal and hurdle rider; Francis Reed, principal and jockey rider; Reno McCree, jockey and carrying act; May Davenport, jockey and carrying act; the Four Silvinis, Australian acrobats; Judge Bros., ladder act; Lambert and Maynard, comedy acrobats; the Three Barnells, statuary and juggling acts; Will Connors, bounding wire; Mrs. Petit, bounding wire; the Three Petits, aerial bars; the Two Judges, posturing act; Genaro and Theol, contortioniests; the Martell Family, bicycle act; ___; Sig. Peri and eight Amazons, in drill; Arthur Borrella, principal clown; ___, Latour, Lancaster, Hidge, Daily, Sawyer, Shien, clowns; Capt. Sharp and six rough riders; Dan O'Brien, principal leaper; Mme. Marantelle, high jumping horses, and Prof. Dockrill, equestrian director.
Rippel Show notes. Our show has been making good everywhere. Our route has been changed because of the burning of the show, May 8, at Ridgeville, Ind. But everything is once more on wheels, and everybody is happy. We have the same company as before. We have had to change our route on account of small pox, three towns refusing to grant licenses.
New York Clipper, July 20, 1901, p. 444. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
With the Skerbeck One Ring Show. This show gave its initial performance at Medford, Wis., May 11, to a fair afternoon house and a good night house. The following day a heavy snow fell nearly all day. After that the weather was splendid until we struck Minnesota; then we had storms continuously for three weeks. We did an excellent business through the lumber and iron country. Our first blow down occurred May __, at Twin Valleys, Minn., and we lost the night show, but were in running order next day. The saddest of all was the death of manager Skerbeck's brother, Antonio, who fell dead in the ring while doing his turn in knockabout clown makeup. This cast a gloom over all the troupe. He was a jolly, noble hearted boy, and was beloved by all and is sincerely mourned by the company. The third accident occurred at Cloquet, Minn., June 23. A citizen had a shooting gallery near the grounds, and as Col. Phil. Coup, the veteran soldier and showman, was passing in the lot, a drunken man discharged a target gun; the ball struck Mr. Coup over the left eye and lodged against the bridge of the nose, making a painful, but not dangerous wound. At West Superior we lost a valuable trick pony. The ledger balances on the right side, hence the gentleman in white promptly appears every Sunday, making the troupe happy. We are now in our ninth week, and our young manager (by the way, we believe he is the youngest circus proprietor in America) is highly elated over the business the show has done thus far, and he looks forward to continuous good business in the Lake Superior copper country. The side show is managed by Frank Holloway; reserved seats and lot under the supervision of Col. Phil. Coup, and the candy stand privilege is run by Fred Brooks.
Frank Oakley Slivers and Jas. West, at the close of the tenting season of the Forepaugh-Sells Shows, sail for Europe for the winter.
Facts from the Gus Sun R. R. Shows. We opened our season May 25 at Ashland, Wis., and at present are touring the larger cities along the crest of Washington, Oregon and California. Our business has been better than we anticipated. Thus far we have had all kinds of opposition, including the Campbell Bros., Norris & Rowe's, Gentry's, Sells & Gray's and Jarbeau's Oriental Circus and Midway to contend with. However, our excellent advance brigade, under the direction of Fred D. Fowler, has taken good care that none of the above get any the best of us on advertising space, and ever since we left Butte, Mont., it has been a "battle royal," but as usual we always appear on the surface at the finish. The wiseacres said that we would starve to death through Montana and Idaho, but they reckoned without their host, for our business through both these states was phenomenal. At Billings, Logan, Butte, Anaconda, Missoula and Wallace we actually turned people away at both performances. We haven't made a change since we opened, and the show is giving the best of satisfaction along the line. The Einhaus Family, six in number, continue to please, as does also the Three Cerenos and Cancanto. Our clown comics, arranged by Sam Horner, keeps the audience in a continual uproar. We close about Sept. 10 to prepare for Gus Sun's American Minstrels, which will be one of the best minstrel attractions on the road next season. Mrs. E. W. Chipman rejoined the show at Billings, after passing through a very successful operation on her eyes at Bismark, N.D. Hospital. She is feeling and looking much better than when she left us.
Georgie Carson, better known as "Little Dead Shot," has left the Buckskin Bill Wild West owing to a broken ankle, caused by a fall from a sleeping car on July 4. She is now with friends at Detroit, Mich.
Pawnee Bill has purchased the Allord herd of buffalos in Montana, thirty-eight in number, and preparations are now being made to move them from Montana to his ranch in Oklahoma. Pawnee Bill is now having built a stockade corrall containing one hundred and twenty acres of buffalo grass. . . .
New York Clipper, July 27, 1901, pp. 466, 467. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Welsh Bros.' Shows. Business remains undiminished throughout western Pennsylvania. M. H. Welsh is away for a brief sojourn, and John Welsh has temporarily relinquished the cares of the advance, to assume the managerial reins, his place ahead being filled for the nonce by Herbert Whittier. Mr. and Mrs. H. Stanley Lewis are away for a week's visit at the Pan-American, and will rejoin us at New Castle. Among the more recent additions to our roster are: Mr. and Mrs. Rhoda Royal and their trained stock, which are among the chief features of our performance. The business staff at present comprises: John & M. H. Welsh, sole owners and managers; V. O. Woodward, car manager, with eighteen assistants; Clinton M. Newton, equestrian director; H. Stanley Lewis, advertising manager; Geo. ("Punch") Irving, director of annex; H. H. Whittier, bandmaster. The heads of departments include: Chas. O'Brien, boss canvas man; Jack Forepaugh, boss hostler; James Reagan, master of transportation; Jack Robinson, boss chandelier man; Howard Martin, steward dressing room. The Takezana Japanese Troupe (Kanezana, Kinpiro, Uneski and Kiku); the Great Sylvester, Rhoda Royal, Mme. Royal, Peasley and Schnorr, Max Hugo, Prof. John White and his trained stock, the McCormicks, the Del Sabos, Mme. Yucca and a host of others. The show carries ten cars this season, eighty head of stick and over two hundred people in all departments.
The Buckskin Bill Wild West closed July 20, at La Porte, Ind., on account of a misunderstanding with the firm. All employees received their salary in full, and the show will reorganize at Paducah, Ky., in a couple of weeks.
Prof. J. W. Cliffe resigned his position as bandmaster of the Sautelle Circus last Saturday. Prof. Cliffe sustained a severe injury, owning to a fall from the band wagon, and will rest at his summer home, in Stanford, Ct., until fall, when he will take on a concert band for a tour of the West.
Dan Gordon reports success in his new bicycle act with Capt. Ament's Circus. Eff Long, with his tuba playing is also ___ with great favor.
The George Jabour Oriental Carnival Circus and Menagerie was launched July 4, at Missoula, Mont., where the golden spike was driven to the rail that joined the Eastern and Western divisions of the Northern Pacific railway some years ago. This aggregation, consisting of ten separate and distinct shows, carries one hundred and twenty-five performers, and did a splendid business and repeated this success at Great Falls and Butte, where Mr. Jabour played in conjunction with mammoth and well ordered street fairs. Mr. Jabour goes next to Vancouver, Tacoma, Spokane, Salt Lake, Denver and other cities of prominence. In a short time manager Geo. L. Hutchin will assist Mr. Jabour in transforming this big Midway into a stupendous circus and menagerie, and play the southern cities during the winter season.
New York Clipper, August 3, 1901, pp. 485, 488. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Walter L. Main Fashion Plate Shows. We have concluded another highly successful week since writing you last. The intense heat had a tendency to hurt the matinee attendance, but the tents were invariably very comfortably filled while at night at every stand we were crowded to the doors. A slight wreck was caused when entering the freight yards at Mount Vernon, N.Y>, by the engine and two cars running off a switch. Two cages were badly damaged. The claims were promptly adjusted by the railroad company. Edw. C. Knupp, general manager of advance, was back with the show three days last week. Frank Daniels was a spectator at Port Chester, while H. Primrose and a party of friends attended at Mount bernon. A regular exodus of performers took place Sunday from Mount Vernon, most of them spending the day in the metropolis. Supt. D. J. Fitzgerald was unfortunate enough to stand too close one of the horses, which stepped on his foot, making a painful, but not serious bruise. Mr. and Mrs. Wm. B. Doris were favored with a two days' visit from their little daughter Ethel last week. D. H. Harris, manager of Mme. Marantette's high jumping horses, is suffering from poison ivy. Mr. Main is absent from the show on a visit to his wife, and incidentally to inspect the progress of his new steel and iron winter quarters, which are in course of construction at Geneva, O. When completed the new quarters will be the finest in the country. The Martelle Family of bicyclists are again members of the show.
Campbell Bros.' advertising roster: Al. Campbell, general agent; W. H. Quinnett, local contractor; Harry Busenback, excursion agent. Roster car No. 1: ___ Burns, car manager; S. S. Bryant, boss bill poster; W. M. McCreary, lithos and banners; R. S. Martell, programmer; Roy Snyder, paste maker and porter. Bill posters: "Peg" Buckner, Al. Lindley, A. E. McPherson, Wm. McDowell, W. M. Fishback, Jack Davis, Burt Bud, Harry Langden, Joe Dowd. Roster box brigade: W. W. Lowry, manager of box; Thomas Kirk and Fred. Morgan, bill posters.
Will C. Millard, original Dutch bicyclists, is in his fourteenth week with the Great Wallace Shows. He intends joining his brother about November. . . .
Notes from Richards & Co.'s Unique Shows. We have been playing to good business in Texas. We had a blow down in Detroit, that State. The tent was packed, it was the banner house of the season, and the show had just started when a big wind storm blew everything to the ground. There was no rain and no money was given back, so the people remained on the lot, and the centre poles were raised without any top or side walls. The tent was not damaged much. Presence of mind of Mrs. Hattie Richards, however, save the whole show from being burned up. Two lamps caught fire,and Mrs. Richards ran to her sleeper wagon and got two quilts, dipped them in the lemonade tub, and threw them on the lamps. Nobody was hurt, and the show went on and gave the best of satisfaction.
New York Clipper, August 10, 1901, p. 511. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Lee Bros.' Big One Ring Shows and Trained Animals. We opened our season July 22, in Providence, R.I., to big business for the week, changing locations in different sections of the city, and giving great satisfaction. We have a 100ft. round top, with a 40ft. middle piece. We carry forty-five head of horses, with eight head of fine grays for our tally-ho coach. Everything is in fine shape for a prosperous season. Our complete roster is: Frank, Thos. & Chas. Lee, sole proprietors; John Kelly, general manager; Owen Murray, treasurer; Chas. Davis, general agent; Ed. ___, director; Thos. Brown, agent, with eight men in advance. Performers: Herbert Swift and wife, Gertie Zola, Hanson and Newell, Eldura and Livingston, Garard Bros., the La ___, Kempton, Doherty, Murphy and Dufrenes, clowns; the La Joies, the Jardines, Prof. Ed. Musliner's educated sheep and pigs, La Jore Bros. Band: Prof. Swift, director; Bert Davies, __ Shaw, Frank Gagnon, Chas. Cacon, Geo. Vogel, Frank Smith, Brown Bros. Our concert: Gertie Zola, Leah La Joie, the Dufrenes, Ed. Murphy, Harry Kelley and Joe Doherty. The canvas is in charge of Harry Davis and fourteen assistants. It is our intention to cover the North East territory the rest of the season. Everything is new in the outfit, and we receive great praise for the performance at the prices we are playing.
Roster advertising car No. 1, Walter L. Main's Fashion Plate Shows: Frank ___, car manager; E. C. Laird, boss bill poster; Ed. Troy, R. E. Demmick, John ___, Harry Lauch, John McDonnough, Al. Powell, Fred Bates, Frank Willoughby, L. S. Thompson, Jos. Howard and Henry Newman, billposters; Oscar Keineman, Frank Tracy, lithos; Fred Green, litho boards, and Wm. Gillman, banners.
Notes from the C. A. Bogardus Golden Rule Shows. We opened the season at Arkansas City, Kan., July 20, with a 100ft. round top and a __ft. middle piece. Roster: C. A. Bogardus, proprietor and manager; Walt McCafferty, assistant manager; Jack ___, advance representative; J. Woods, equestrian director; C. Johnson, bounding rope and juggling; the ___, athletes, rolling golobe and flying perch; Elvino, contortionist; Gus Balsiger, imitations . . . G. A. Knowles, revolving ladder . . . The side show, under the management of G. A. Knowles, is making good with Mrs. G. A. Knowles, human pin cushion; Prof. Stall, strong man; ___, snake charmer; G. A. Knowles, magician; mermaids, libing head and half lady illusions. Our band, under Prof. Don. Essig, with the following musicians: Frank Clements, Earl ___, O. Douglas, Joe ___, Ike Bell, Herb. Turner, S. T. Brandon, C. W. Fogle, Gus Baisiger and Gus ___. For our concert we carry an elevated stage, scenery, wings, etc. The concert is in charge of J. Woods. The big top is in charge of Chas. Rhodes, with fifteen assistants, and is waterproof throughout, as are also our horse tents, which are presided over by Chas. Hobson. We carry fifty head of stock, and no show on the road has any finer stock. . . . C. A. Bogardus, in his rifle shooting act, receives round after round of applause.
Notes from Frank Adams' Southern Railway Show. the show has been meeting with the same ill luck and having opposition on all sides. On last Sunday, as the show was moving out of a branch, two flats in front of our cars left the track and were thrown across a creek that was near the track, but fortunately our cars kept the track and no serious damage was done.
Notes from the Rippel Shows. We are on our fourteenth week of prosperity and with a grip full of the best press notices and well pleased crowds, we ought to be happy. The only thing we have to contend with is dry weather. It is hard on rolling stock and harness. Everything is burned up around Indiana, but business hits us just the same.
List of official of Walter L. Main's New Fashion Plate Shows: Walter L. Main, sole proprietor and manager; D. J. Fitzgerald, superintendent; R. H. Dockrill, equestrian director; Edward C. Knupp, general manager of advance; Wm. M. Power, treasurer; Owen Doud, stenographer; Donald McKenzie, auditor; Harry E. Knowlton, press agent; John Griffin, adjuster; John ___, purchasing agent; Wm. B. Doris, manager of annex and concert; Fred Mayfield, manager of stand privileges; Harry Howard, offical announcer; Fred Dempsey, master of properties, with eleven helpers; Edward Kennedy, boss canvas man; Jas. Whallen, John Pfeifenberger and Chas. Williams, assistants, with forty-nine helpers; Dan Taylor, master mechanic, with six herlpers; Jack Kent, master of transportation, with thirteen helpers; Wm. Winner, boss animal man, with eleven helpers; Bob Abrams, boss hostler; Henry ___, assistant, with forty-one helpers; Abner Moreland, in charge dining tent, with twenty-one helpers; "Frenchy" Lavander, boss chandelier man, with three helpers; John Dair, train watchman; Chas. Thomas, in charge of ticket sellers; Prof. L. J. Chamerlain, band master, with sixteen men; and Frank Butler and Mark Monroe on front door. Booked solid till 1902.
Teets Bros. R. R. Show is still meeting with success through the South and playing to the capacity of the tents. The Miles Orton Family, seven in number, with trained horses, mules and dogs, are late additions to the show, which is now one of the strongest 25c shows on the road. They write that they are giving the best satisfaction everywhere. Everybod is well, and they expect to make a long season through the Southern states.
C. S. Gillette writes: "I am now at my home, Lapeer, Mich., taking a much needed vacation of a few weeks, having rendered a service of nearly five years as agent of Sparks' R. R. Circus. ___ Clements, of Pittsburg, is filling my position during my absence. I closed at Du Bois, Pa., and stopped off at Buffalo for a few days, to view the Pan-American. This is my home, and also the home of my father, who is the bill poster here."
Chas. Sparks, of the Sparks Circus, has been at his home, East Brady, Pa., for a couple of weeks, having been compelled to leave the show because of an attack of malaria. He is now much better and will shortly rejoin the show. He writes that the show is doing a phenomenal business through Pennsylvania.
New York Clipper, August 24, 1901, pp. 552, 553. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes of the Ballenger Family Show. We are now in our fifteenth week and business is still at top notch, considering the weather we have had. The staff is as follows: Matt Ballenger, sole owner and manager; Frank Warner, superintendent; Fred C. Bowers, advance representative, with two assistants; Tom Mills, boss canvas man, with ten assistants; Walter Perkens, boss property man, with four assistants; Peter Getrel, boss hostler, in charge of thirty head of stock, with twelve assistants; Homer Huff, chandelier man, with one assistant. We are carrying a 90ft. round top, with two 40ft. middle pieces. Our dress top is a 50ft. round; our stock top is a 50x80, and cook tent 30x50. Our performers are: the Daly bros., bar experts; Wm. J. Yaeger, stilt wire performer; Rue Bros., acrobats; Applegate and Ballenger, contortionists; Lizzie Ballenger, iron jawed wonder; Lewis and ___, aerialists; Willie Gilbert, principal clown, and Prof. Leon, with his troupe of trained dogs, ponies and goats. Our concert includes: Watt Colston, singing and dancing comedian; Applegate and Rue, in a singing specialty; Wm. J. Yeager, Dutch comedian; the musical Trio, Balenger, Kluenter and Ballenger, and a novelty trick house. Verna Ballenger, leader of band, and G. A. Kluenter, leader of orchestra. Everybody is well and happy.
Cooper & Co.'s Circus notes. We closed at Memphis, Tenn., May 29, after being on the road for sixteen months without a stop. We are spending the heated term in a beautiful woodlawn near Memphis city limits. We have kept men painting and repairing all summer. We have added two more cars, a beautiful sleeper and dining car. We are loth to depart from our present pleasant surroundings, having formed many pleasant acquaintances, as Memphis is one of our favorite cities, but our people and citizens are anxiously awaiting the date of our Fall opening here, which will be Sept.2. The show will be much larger than heretofore. Many new attractions and special features have been added, and it will be fully equipped with new canvas from the front door to the stable tents. The show will travel exclusively in the Southern states, where it has received the kind of approval of its patrons, and has justly earned the title given it, "The Family Show of the South."
Harry E. Knowlton, press agent, writes: "Everything seems to favor Walter L. Main's New Fashion Plate Shows - at least the weather seems to be made to order, while the phenomenal big business has not diminished a particle. With the exception of a few horses which are recovering from a slight attack of epezoodic, the people, the animals and the stock are enjoying the best of health. D. J. Fitzgerald, our popular superintendent, however, is still on furlough, but is reported on the high road to recovery. He will report for duty soon. Four large cars of cages have been added to the menagerie. Part of the consignment of animals were recently received from Herr Hagenbeck, while Wm. Bartles' emporium was entirely depopulated in order to fill the balance of the new cages. This department, with it baby emu, baby monkeys, baby elephant and the four baby cub lions, which were born May 30, is now decidedly popular with the visitors. Reports from Mr. Main's extensive new winter quarters at Geneva, O., state that work is progressing rapidly. An enjoyable feature of the Long Island tour was the entertainment of an unusually large number of professional people. The veteran showman, John B. Doris, took the sawdust fever and lengthened an intended one day's visit into one week's trip, and seemed to enjoy it immensely. At Flushing, L.I., a large party, most of whom are spending the summer at Elmhurst, attended in a body,under the care of Fred Hallen and his popular wife, Mollie Fuller. Among the prominent professionals were Tony Pastor and wife, Edgar Smith and wife, Donald Burns, Harry Kelly and wife, M. R. Conkley, John F. Kelly and wife, Jerome Sykes and wife, Joe Miron and family, Miss Chester, Mrs. Walters, Geo. Walters, Frank Kelly, Sam Devere and wife, Sam Collins and wife, and Master Sam Rosenbaum. The Todd Judge Trio were interested spectators at Flushing, and also Julius P. Witmark. Junie McCree paid a flying visit to his brothers, Reno McCree, last week. Col. Harrison paid a two day's visit to the show last week."
Notes from the Tony Lowande Circus. We have just returned from the Vuelta Abajo, and opened a summer season July 27 at Cuarto Caminos, in the city of Havana, to packed houses. Roster of show: Tony Lowande, sole owner and manager; Jose Aguilera, assistant manager; Isadoro Rabago, general agent; Isadoro Otega, assistant general agent; Julian Martinez, ticket agent; Manuel Ferrandiz, equestrian director; Martinho Lowande Jr., principal bareback somersault rider; Josie Lowande, principal lady rider; Senorita Jovina, lady hurdle rider; Harry Higgins, mule hurdle act; Johnny Fernandiz, principal clown; Emilio Girarde, grotesque; Three Carreteritos, acrobats; Marie Lusia, trapezes; ___ Marie, wire artist; Marco Egenio, contortionist; Chachito and Victor, negro comedians. Stock consists of eighteen head of ring horses, fifteen saddle horses, three lions, three bears, one elk, two four horned sheep, one monkey and one dromedary.
Notes from Motter, Mack & Campbell's Circus. Since our opening we have been doing an excellent business, notwithstanding the poor weather and bitter opposition. Since we entered this section of Ohio ring bank houses have been the rule. We carry twenty-one people, band and orchestra. Everyone is happy and contented. The roster is as follows: Perry Motter, manager; Nello J. Campbell, business manager; John McAllister, general agent, ___ Motter, treasurer; Prof. Melville Hayes, bandmaster; Clinton Jones, equestrian director; the Motter Trio, revolving ladder, bounding rope, flying traps and rings; ___, strong woman, Mack and Campbell, triple bars, tumbling and contortion; Harry Miller, single traps, head, hand and pedestal balancing; ___ Orland, trained dogs, ponies and pigs; Johnnie Mack, singing and talking clown; Baby Mabel, rag time dancing and melodies.
Notes from Reno's Allied Shows. Still touring southern Illinois, to the capacity of the big tent. Business still keeps up to the top notch and no opposition. We are in the drought district, and crops are badly burned, having passed several large fields of oats which were only about a foot high and burned brown. Corn is a complete failure. All our performers have felt the heat more or less, and we are like the natives, almost praying for rain. We are justly proud of our band, as we feature it, and they make good. Gene Stevens, leader; Bob Macosky, clarionet; Chas. Terry, second cornet; clarence Burrows, tuba; Sam Daniels, slide trombone; Lou Smith, baritone; Harry Mansey, alto; Duke Warren, snare drummer. Arthur Humiston does all he can to keep the audience in a good humor, and he is very successful. Our roster of performers is the same as when we started out.
Chas. G. Collins, a bill poster, died Aug. 4, at Waco, Tex. He was about forty-eight years old, and had been during the winter and spring of 1900 with Bryan Bill Posting Co., at Toledo, O., and joined the advance of Sparks' Circus, car No. 1, at Perrysburg, O., June 30, 1900. At the time of his death he was with the Waco Bill Posting Co., at Waco, Tex.
Jerry D. Dashington writes: "We had to leave the circus July 27 on account of illness - typhoid fever. Master Willie has been very low since July 27, but we are gaining a little now."
E. D. Colvin shipped a large number of people, as well as horses and ponies, to Bremen, Germany, for the Barnum & Bailey Show, Aug. 20.
Wm. and Mlle. Irwin left the J. C. Banks Circus, and will rest at their home in Buffalo.
G. Burkhart returned from the Buckskin Bill Wild West Show and joined the Sig. Sautelle Circus Aug. 6, at Barre, Mass., for the balance of the season.
Notes from Capt. W. D. Ament's Big City Show. We were obliged to suddenly close the season Aug. 7, as Capt. Ament received a telegram that his little boy was dying. The little fellow had been sick all season with rheumatism of the heart and Mrs. Ament was obliged to leave the show two months ago to care for him. As he has been treasurer of the show for eight years the extra work and worry has nearly broken Capt. Ament down. He has decided to retire from the circus field and sell the entire show. He will organize a small family show this Fall, as soon as circumstances will permit, and play fair dates.
The Cooper & Co. Show closed in Memphis, Tenn., after a tour of sixteen months. They have been refitting the show while resting, and have added two new cars - a sleeper and dining car. The company is reorganizing, and will open in Memphis Sept. 2. The show will be much larger than heretofore, having added many new attractions. It has always been a favorite in the South, and will travel exclusively in the southern States.
George Takleberry, a ticket seller formerly in the employ of the Sautelle Circus, was shot and instantly killed by Joseph C. Banks, manager of the show, at the circus grounds in Saratoga, N.Y., on Aug. __. A quarrel resulted in the tragedy, and some of those who witnessed the shooting stated that Takleberry drew the revolver, and that Banks wrenched it from his hands and then shot him.
New York Clipper, September 21, 1901, p. 641. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Frank Adams' Great Southern R. R. Shows. We are bound homeward for our successful season in the South, for we never close. We have had to contend with a little illness in the company during the past week, but all is O.K. now and the show is running smoothly, to good business. Roster: Frank Adames, proprietor and managers; the Giffords, the Three Bonhommes, Frank Adams, Mrs. Agnes Adams and troupe of dogs, Master Frank Adams.
Notes from Reno's Allied Shows. Indiana is now our stamping ground, and thus far it has been a bonanza. Linton, Ind., being the banner house of the season; the people were packed to the ring bank, and although crowded like sardines they were a good natured and jolly crowd. Everyone is well at present. The hot weather during July and the fore part of August knocked out some of the people, but cool weather prevails, and we are all in harness once more. The show is very strong, and compliments pour in. Mr. Reno is winning laurels for himself and company, and we leave a good name everywhere. Our route will be through Indiana indefinitely.
New York Clipper, September 28, 1901, p. 666. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
At the conclusion of the performance at Tully, N.Y., Sept. 28, the last performance of Sig. Sautelle's Big Wagon Show will be given. Next season Mr. Sautelle will have a big railroad show, requiring twenty-five sixty foot cars for its transportation. While business all season has been the heaviest every enjoyed by the Sautelle show, Mr. Sautelle has decided to take to the rails and will add a complete menagerie of fourteen cages and four elephants, with two cars in advance. F. C. Cooper, general agent; B. H. Mills, contracting agent; C. J. Carroll, advertising agent, closed at Tully, N.Y., Sept. 16.
Carl Hagenbeck and Walter L. Main met at the Palace Hotel, Cincinnati, Sept. 16, and Mr. Main purchased of Mr. Hagenbeck two large Indian female elephants that have been used to catch wild elephants in India. Mr. Main will introduce a new act on hippodrome track, showing the mode of capturing wild animals in the jungle. He also purchased a female African elephant, hippopotamus, three Siberian camels, East India deer and several other hay eating animals; aslo a pair of lion slayers - the only ones known to be in America.
Lute C. Gillette, after a six week's vacation at the home of his father in Lapeer, Mich., has returned to the advance car of John Sparks' Railroad Circus, and assumed the duties of general agent. Bob Clemens, who filled his position during his absence, has returned to his home in Pittsburg.
The Four Miltons have joined Ringling's Circus for the remainder of the season.
Eddie E. Gifford left for Hamburg on Sept. 12, to fulfill a six months' engagement with the Circus Busch, in Berlin. Mr. Gifford is to make a dive with his bicycle into a tank of water.
The Walter L. Main Fashion Plate Show notes. We concluded our tour of the New England states at Torrington, Ct., on Sept. 18, after having been in that section since May 31, playing to the largest business in the history of the aggregation. A few stands will now be made in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. President McKinley's funeral day was fittingly observed by the Fashion Plate Shows, while at Millerton, N.Y.
Notes from Gus Sun's R. R. Shows. We closed our regular circus season at Rawlins, Wyo., Sept. 7. During the sixteen weeks we were out we covered Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming, and did not have a losing week on the entire tour. In fact the business was the best Mr. Sun has ever seen in the fifteen years of his show life. At many towns in Nevada people came eighty miles to see the show, and paid $1.50 to witness the performance. At the conclusion of our performance at Rawlins the layout was hastily packed away in our new winter quarters to remain until next Spring. The rolling stock, consisting of five cars, was sent to the U. P. shops at Omaha, for repairs and paint. Mr. Sun, accompanied by Mrs. Sun, Louise and baby Sun, Fred D. Fowler, E. W. Chipman and wife, Sam ___, Prof. Chas. Parreaut and Jos. Nugent left the following day in the private car, Nellie, for Council Bluffs, Ia., where the initial performance will be given for this season of the Gus Sun American Minstrels.
Whitney Family happenings. We have no reason to complain of the season of 1901, as our business has been excellent. We all mourned the death of our beloved President. We showed at Green Springs, O., Thursday, Sept. 19, and Chas. Whitney, our general manager, had the extreme pleasure of furnishing the music for the entire day's memorial services, Mr. Whitney leading the band to the reviewing stand. We will close the season in about four weeks, and the show will winter at Attica, O. It will be enlarged to twice its size for next season.
Notes from the R. Z. Orton Family Show. We are having rain, rain almost every day in northern Iowa. We expect to close Oct. 1 at our winter quarters at Ortonville, Ia. The season has been a success, and we have been preparing for next season, and plans are under headway to put out a better show than ever next Spring. We have nineteen head of stock secured for next Spring and expect to go out with twenty-five head of horses, ponies and mules. We are enjoying the best of health.
The Bonheur Bros. Show canceled their date on Sept. 19, at Garden City, Kan., in order to fittingly observe Memorial Day.
New York Clipper, October 5, 1901, p. 679. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the William Sells & James H. Gray's United Shows. We opened at Savannah, Ga., April 1, and will have completed at the conclusion of the present season one of the longest tours in this country on record, from ocean to ocean and from the Gulf of Mexico to Puget Sound, then back again to the sunny East and South. Many incidents of note have occurred, and the show has gradually increased in size from time to time. We are now Eastward bound, after two months of phenomenal business on the Pacific coast, and a pleasant tour it has been. Recently at Great Falls, Mont., the labor unions (on Labor Day) joined the circus in making it a grand holiday, the show giving a morning and evening performance only, the unions furnishing the afternoon programme, assisted by the several circus bands, under the able leadership of Prof. Carl Neal. It was a great success. Spokane, Wash., Butte, Anaconda, Helena, Bozeman and Billings, Mont., gave us immense houses. At Crow Agency, Mont., between performances, many visited the memorable Custer battlefield, a mile distant. . . . two days more elapsed when news reached us of the assassination of our beloved President, and today, as I pen this letter, all our bands in one are leading the funeral procession of five thousand people to the memorial services at the Opera House. Jo Berris' new sixty-five horse act is about to be presented. It will be the largest act of its kind (65) ever undertaken. Rose Maretta, who recently suffered from the Pullman coach fire, has about recovered and is again at work. The Nimrods and disciples of Issak Walton, with the show, have had a huge time lately. J. C. Clark holds the medal among the fishermen, having taken with rod and reel, with grasshopper bait, a brook trout weighing three pounds and eleven ounces, while G. H. Hollis is first among the hunters. He recently, after a half day's hunt, came in with one dead teal duck, a crippled snipe and a blind coyote. We often wonder if all tented aggregations are as fortunate as are the people of Sells & Gray's Shows, in having with them a wealthy physician. We have, and like the "good Samaritan," he serves all alike, without money or price. I refer to generous William Eddy, of the Eddy family of famous acrobats, who has administered all season to the sick and injured with our show and will not accept remuneration. At Lead City, S.D., ten miles up the steep mountain side (Sept. 16) above Deadwood, Sells & Gray's were the first to ever appear at that city of wondrous thrift and wealth with the big show. And to add to the novelty, it didn't rain, it snowed. What was still more surprising, the tents, in spite of the falling snow, were literally packed at both performances. The Deadwood Pioneer Times, in commenting upon it the next morning, remarked that it was understood that "the show was to play a return date at Lead on Christmas Day." I cannot call to mind, nor do I think can any Clipper reader, of any circus heretofore having experienced the novelty of giving two complete performances to packed tents actually up in the clouds and during a snow storm.
Walter L. Main notes. The success of the Fashion Plate Shows continues unabated, and, despite the cool evenings, the business has been phenomenal at every stand. The enlarging of the show still goes on, and it was found necessary to add another long flat car at Jersey City. Leontine, the three legged boy, and Madame Fatima, the mind reader, have been added to the annex features, while Madame Yucca, the champion strong woman, is now prominent on the circus programme. Several other novelties will also be added at Slattington Monday. The Four Silvinis are now presenting their new pedestal acrobatic act in full evening dress and meeting with success. Messrs. Gill Robinson and Jack Holmes were interested spectators at Jersey City. On Sept. 21 Mr. Main purchased from Wm. J. Doris the entire annex outfit and also his privilege rights for the concert. Mr. Doris is no longer connected with the aggregation, and James W. Beattie has been secured to manage both the concert and the annex for the rest of the season. Charles Bernard, formerly treasurer of the Walter Main Shows, but now secretary to the bill posting association and located at Savannah, Ga., paid the show a pleasant visit, accompanied by his wife, at Bayonne, N.J. On Sept. 25, at Somerville, N.J., Joseph Hendricson, one of the blacksmiths connected with the shows, was accidently run down and killed by a train on the C. R. R. of N. J. tracks while walking from the grounds to the circus sleepers. The remains were shipped to Elmira, N.Y., where his wife and one child reside. He was a member in good standing of the Order of Red Men. At Bayonne, N.J., Wm. Bartella delivered another consignment of animals to the Fashion Plate Menagerie, including an East Indian deer, a monster black panther, two while fallow deer, several large tropical birds and a dozen monkeys. On Oct. 4 there will arrive in New York direct from Hagenbeck's Hamburg Animal Emporium, two young dromedaries and two India elephants. The latter two animals have been used in the far East jungles by the natives to capture and imprison other mammoth pachyderms for the animal market. These two intelligent beasts will be assigned prominent parts in the realistic "Animal Hunt" which will hereafter form an important number in the hippodrome programme.
New York Clipper, October 12, 1901, p. 714. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from J. Augustus Jones' New R. R. Shows. We are now in our twenty-fifth week, and business still continues big. This show has not had any turnaways, but we have played to a good, steady business all season. J. Augustus Jones, manager; Elick Jones, privileges; Dave Lowe, treasurer; Elmer H. Jones, general agent, with three men ahead of show. Big show performers: Silverlake Bros., James Brooks, Joe Horner and wife, Harry Philips, Julia Brooks, the Leanos, three in number; Edward Hilton, J. H. McGraw, J. M. Martin and following musicians: L. A. Scurry, Con Acker, Frank Wolf, F. H. Way, Punk Whalen, Joe Leclare, Archie Silverlake, Chas. Gilbert, Jim Robinson. Dock Leno, manager of the side show, with the following people: May Leno, Little Ollie Leno, Alo ha Nuba, Sam Burg, Oddo, Fannie Nelson, Ed. Carter; Jim ___, superintendent of canvas, with fourteen men; M. D. Lewis, boss hostler, with six men.
Tony Lowande will arrive in New York from Cuba about Oct. 25.
Reno McCree and May Davenport, riders with the Walter L. Main Show, were married on Sept. 22, in Jersey City, N.J.
E. D. Gardner, a watchman with the Ringling Bros.' Circus, was shot and instantly killed in Phoenix, Ariz., about midnight of Sept. 23, by George McDonald. The shooting was done by McDonald in cold blood, so the circus employees state, and Ringling Bros. will make every effort to have the prisoner convicted of murder. It appears that a former employee of the show attempted to board the first section of the circus train, which was leaving for Tucson. He was ordered off, and finally forcibly ejected by Gardner. He then went to McDonald, who was that evening deputized as constable, and who immediately searched for Gardner, and, upon finding him, drew his revolver, it is stated, and shot him dead.
Gollmar Bros. & Schuman's Circus notes. We closed Oct. 5 at Waupun, Wis. Although the show has played in new territory the greater part of the season, business has been big. We toured Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Michigan. The people go to the following destinations: Gollmar Bros. and Schumann, Jas. Fitzgerald, the Hocums, the Marahas, and Chas. Smith go to Baraboo, Wis.; Harry Wertz, Leon and Dougherty, Fred Dananburg, Ed. Wallace and Floyd Pike go to Chicago; the Adairs to Springfield, Ill.; the Simpsons to Buffalo, N.Y.; the Barlows to Waverly, Pa.; Geo. Parento to Tidioute, Pa.; Arthur Rueter to Peru, Ind.; James Beano plays the Carlinville, Ill. fair, week of Oct. 7; Max Hollaway, Frank Macart to Evansville, Wis.; Prof. Frank Seavey joins the "Si Perkins" Co.; W. Fink to Freeport, Ill.; H. C. Hall to Augusta, Wis.; Burnhardt (Tubs) to South Bend, Ind.; Shellhouse and Viquesney to Kansas City; Doc Parkhurst, boss canvas man, to Columbus, O.
J. W. Roscoe is contracting agent for the Sells & Gray Circus. He writes: "We are on our way South, after a wonderfully successful trip to the Northwest coast and back. In Seattle the business was so large that we had to give two shows in one night."
Notes from the Bonheur Bros.' Shows. Johnnie Crosset's engagement was ended at Horace, Sept. 14. He left at midnight, after the close of the concert, and took train to Scott City, to join Henry Bros.' Green Wagon Show. The Morgans came on at 2:30 p.m. following morning and joined us. The success of the show was immense at Holby, Col., where we showed to capacity, at an advance in admission prices. The Morgans are making the success of their lives and are very popular with the people. Walt Morgan is truly a great clown. His old man and Dutchman in concert specialites are fine. Bob Ward was compelled to give up his engagement to return to his Oklahoma claim. Many people were turned away at Garden City, 20. We canceled 19 because of Mr. McKinley's funeral.
New York Clipper, October 19, 1901, p. 727. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Lucky Bill Co. notes. We are playing return dates through the cities and larger towns of Minnesota and South Dakota. Mr. Newton has added many new features to his show, and is putting up a very interesting parade daily. He has secured the efficient services of a genuine Western cowboy from the wilds of the Yellowstone Valley, named Arthur L. Runyan, with his five bucking bronchos. He rides two at a time (standing), making leaps from one bucking horse to another while riding through the streets at great speed. Mr. Runyan has signed for next season with the Lucky Bill aggregation.
New York Clipper, November 2, 1901, p. 771. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
A note from Annapolis, Md., purporting to be from Reno McCree, recently stated that Mr. McCree and May Davenport had been married. As same was signed, apparently, but Mr. McCree, the note of marriage was published. It appears, however, that it was a forgery, as Mr. McCree has written us __ its contradiction.
Jack Cousins and Lottie Aymar have closed a two weeks' engagement at Corn Carnival, Peoria, Ill., where they were features in their riding acts.
Notes from La Mont Bros.' Circus. We have just closed a season of twenty weeks and have pulled into winter quarters at Salem, Ill. The season has been remarkably good, considering that it was the first season for the show. We opened at Vail, Ia., and got through to southern Illinois with but one misfortune. A cyclone struck us a Cambridge, Ia., July 1, and caused considerable damage throughout that part of the country. Our big top was carried one hundred feet from the show grounds, and our trick mule, Jocko, was almost killed by one of the large tableau wagons falling on him. Otherwise we suffered very little. The show next season will be three times as large as it was this season, and there will be a menagerie and a side show added. There are now at winter quarters three men building new cages, wagons, etc.
Notes from Asa Barker Big 10 and 20 Cent Show. We have just closed for the winter season, and have had one of the best seasons we have had in the history of the show. We will make Terre Haute, Ind., our winter quarters, and will open a dog's circus here for street fair. The show will be re-enlarged for the coming season.
The Jabour Oriental Carnival, Circus and Menagerie notes. We are playing to big business down in Texas and throughout the Southwest, after a most successful season on the coast. The aggregation has been engaged by the San Antonio International Fair Association to play a special engagement there, from Oct. 19 to 30. After a brief engagement in New Orleans, the company will appear at Houston, Old Mexico, El Paso and southern California. Manager C. L. Hutchin has piloted us through a phenomenally sucessful season.
Notes from E. G. Smith's Dog and Pony Circus. We closed our season under canvas with great success, having done a land office business through western Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio. Our tents have been packed to overflowing at each performance nearly every day this season, Indiana and Johnstown being our banner towns.
Cap. Stewart's 10 and 20 cent vaudeville Winter indoor circus took to the road Oct. 24 under the management of Chas. Hilton. It will play opera houses and travel by R. R., making all week stands.
Notes from the Buffalo Bill Wild West Show. We close at Danville, Va., Oct. 29. Business for about six weeks was only fair, but last week was very large. Col. Cody will make a trip to the Big Horn Basin. Johnnie Baker will go to New York, while Annie Oakley will visit friends in Buffalo and take a much needed rest, after which she will return to her home at Nutley, N.J. The Wild West stock will winter at Coatesville, Pa., while the Barnum & Bailey part of the show will winter at Bridgeport, Conn. Fred. Hutchinson, treasurer of the Barnum & Bailey part of the show, will make a bridal trip to Paris.
The Stewart Family Big 10 and 20 Cent Circus notes. We closed our tenting season at Waterloo, Ind., Oct. 12, and drove to Fort Wayne, Ind., 13. We put everything away in our winter quarters, and on 24 the show goes out for the winter. Capt. Stewart remains at home, looking after the building of a new 50x80ft. barn, several sheds and several new wagons.
New York Clipper, November 9, 1901, pp. 801, 804. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The train bearing the Forepaugh & Sells Circus was in collision with a freight train near Baton Rouge, La., on Oct. 29. Three men were seriously hurt. A number of elephants got away, and, after a chase, were driven into Baton Rouge and corraled. None of the other animals escaped, although four cars loaded with cages were wrecked.
Fred. A. Hodgson, representative of the Orrin Bros.' Circus, is making his headquarters in the Clipper building during his stay in New York, and can be seen here personall every day.
Pancho Parez, assistant treasurer of the Orrin Bros.' Circus, who recently celebrated his eighty-fourth birthday, has been actively engaged in the circus business for sixty-five years.
Mrs. Mary Colvin, widow of the late E. D. Colvin, desires to tender her thanks through the medium of the New York Clipper to the numerous friends who deluged her with telegrams and letters of sympathy and condolence, and to those who in the hour of need and trouble assisted her in the last sad rites over her husband.
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Show. The yellow wagon show did a land office business in Colorado. The prices for tickets were advanced one third in Colorado towns, and the show was strengthened before leaving Horace, Kan. A big crowd greeted the show at Holly, Col., and the audience was well pleased with the performance. Business continued at high water mark from that on to the close at Augusta, Okla., the wagons pulling into winter quarters on Oct. 24. One of the largest crowds of the season packed the tent to its utmost capacity and voted it the best show that had ever happened in the town. The show then moved two miles from quartres and showed at Carmen, recently so named, but better known as New Augusta, where another big crowd assembled to witness the real close of the show for the tenting season. With characteristic dispatch the changes for a winter tenting trip was accomplished in two days and the following Wednesday found the show in its reorganized condition, completely equipped and on the road for a Southern tour, indefinite.
Louis Ravelle, clown and fire king, having spent the last year with different circuses in Cuba, has just returned to New York.
One hundred and ten of the ring horses of Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show were crushed to death in a railroad wreck at Linwood, between Charlotte, N.C., and Danville, Va. Among the horses killed was "Old Pap," Col. Cody's favorite saddle horse. "Old Eagle," the star ring horse, was killed and his mangled body fell on top of one of the wrecked engines. The mules that drew the Deadwood coach were killed. Col. Cody states that his loss is $60,000. The accident was the result of a head on collision between a fast south bound freight train and the second section of the show train, and was due to a misunderstanding of orders. Several train hands were injured, but no one was killed. Next to the engine of the show train were two large stock cars containing the horses, and this is where the slaughter occurred. The cars were smashed into a huge distorted heap of debris, and only two horses escaped alive. Col. Cody's engagement at Danville was cancelled.
Rialdo and Hogue, aerialist and Dutch clown, are making good. They have signed for the winter season South, with Van Vranken's Trained Animal Show.
Walter and Edna Lyons, Jennie DeWeese and Laray ___ joined Capt. Stewart's Vaudeville Circus, under the management of Chas. P. Hilton, on Oct. 18. This is Mr. Lyons' eleventh season with the show.
New York Clipper, November 23, 1901, pp. 850, 853. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Prof. Walberti writes: "The J. W. Gorman Indoor Circus, under the charge of the Gorman Amusement Company, of Boston, opened a week's engagement at the Auditorium, Portland, Monday, Nov. 11. The novelty of the attraction for the winter season in eastern New England presaged a successful engagment, which was fully borne out by the splendid attendance. The roster of the company is: R. L. Gorman, general manager; Prof. Walberti, equestrian director; Lowande and Wilson, double trapeze act; John Cousins, bounding jockey act; Three Herbert Brothers, Roman ladder act; Bernard Orton, bounding rope somersaults; Spaulding Bros., acrobats; Funny Frank Kenebel and company; Lottie Aymar, principal bareback act; Burto, juggler; the Moretlos, comedy acrobats; Bros. La Nole, comedy aerial gymnasts; Walberti and his trained horse Dahl; the Jerome Family, comic stilt act; Jackson Sextet, bicycle riders; Burto, Lowande and Wilson's Miniature Circus, introducing Joe the trick pony, and Dewey the riding dog. The side show features include: Blondell, the human calcium light; the Dierkes, in up to date magic; Chasm, handcuff act; Wohena, Eagle Eye, tattooed woman, and the Cecilia Quartet."
Joseph C. Banks, of Seneca Falls, was on Nov. 14, at Ballston, N.Y., acquitted on the charge of murder in the first degree. Banks was tried for shooting Herbert Tacksberry, of Ottawa, Canada, at Saratoga, on Aug. 16 last. Banks was the manager of Sautelle's Circus, and Tacksberry was a discharged employee. Banks contended that he shot in self defence.
Jack Cousins and Lottie Aymar are with manager J. W. Gorman's Indoor Circus, which opened in Portland, Me., Nov. 11. The entire company has given great satisfaction, and every act is a feature.
Myra Deane is resting at her home in New York City, after a very successful and prosperous season with the Great Wallace Shows.
Rays from Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows. We are still showing twice daily and are now in Tennessee. We opened our season April 10, in North Carolina, and played through Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, Long Island and New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and back through Virginia into Tennessee. Very few changes have been made since our opening. Roster: Sun Bros., Geo. and Pete, proprietors; O. R. Steuer, treasurer; Geo. W. Belford, equestrian director; Chas. Coons, band master; Sam. Morris, steward; Otto Gleiser, superintendent; Wm. Randolph, boss hostler; Ed. Kain, trained stock; Vanderbuildt Height, boss properties; Johnny Parker, wardrobe; John Malone, blacksmith; Peter McWilliams, harness maker; S. P. Bowman, side show manager; Davis Bros., privileges; John Sterk, night watch; Louis Topting, chandeliers. A few of our feature acts are: the Three Bros. Belfords, acrobats; Wiley Ferris, dancing barrel and table; Geo. Sun, juggler; Ferris and Trevanion, Geo. Gardner, Leo Collins and others. Ed. Fox, principal clown, Wiley Ferris Jr., eight year old clown; Baby Sun, three and a half year old clown; Comodore, rope walking mule; a fine troupe of trained horses; Prof. Gleiser's troupe of dogs and others. In our annex we have Bowman, the wizard; Madam Bowman, the lady potterer; Sylvia, the snake enchantress, Punch and Judy, Rosa Laretta, Oriental dancer, and three cages of animals. We also have Ed. Kingland, Jules Unger, Bert R. Moore, F. Davis, J. H. Leonard, E. H. Banskie, Lyman, M. Vinai, Fred Morris, Larry De Bar. Our season has been very satisfactory. We leave the wagons at Chattanooga, Tenn., and go on our own private cars for the winter season. Everybody with the show has a bundle of the long green and all expect to eat Thanksgiving dinner under the white tops.
Bonheur Bros.' Show notes. On Saturday night, Nov. 2, after the show started, a wind storm, accompanied by rain and sleet, struck the tents. The cook tent was completely ruined, the whole roof of the scenarama wagon was torn off and blown away, and, with difficulty, the big top was saved from being torn to pieces. A panic ensued, and the audience fled for safety to the nearest hotels. The day had been quite warm and rainy. The change of temperature was sudden and complete, as if Indian Summer had made a lightning change and put on the garb of Winter. The show is doing its usual fine business on this southern tour, but if the weather continues bad it will soon slip back to winter quarters.
Jim and Lottie Rutherford closed their season with the Robinson Shows on Oct. 21, in order to play a number of dates through the East.
Ernest Cooke, manager of Buffalo Bill's Wild West, was a Clipper caller Nov. 9. He intends going to Europe the latter part of this month on a visit to his family. The Wild West Show next season will be larger and better than ever. Col. Cody's agents are now hunting up novelties in all parts of the world. The season will as usual begin at Madison Square Garden.
Mary A. F. Rees, wife of Wm. Rees, and daughter of the late John O'Brien, died at Frankford, Philadelphia, on Nov. 10, aged thirty-one years, and was buried at Mt. Peace Cemetery. She is survived by three children and her husband, Wm. Rees, who was formerly an elephant trainer.
Martinho Lowande Jr. has signed with Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Circus for the coming season.
Oscar Lowande has signed with Orrin Bros.' Circus for ten weeks, and he will sail for Mexico Nov. 27. He also signed with the Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Circus for next season, which will be his fourth with that show.
Sig. Sautelle, accompanied by Frank A. Robbins, who is now manager of the Sautelle Show, paid a very pleasant call upon the Clipper last week. Their reports upon the show season so recently closed were glowing ones, and Mr. Robbins stated that the Sautelle Show next season would travel in cars instead of the wagons they formerly used. The winter quarters of the show are at Homer, N.Y.
New York Clipper, December 14, 1901, pp. 909, 912. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Main's Circus notes. We close our seventeenth season at Tennille, Ga., Saturday, Dec. 7, making a tour of thirty-one weeks and not losing a single afternoon performance and only four night performances, and those on account of towns being too small to make a night show profitable in the South. Everything has run very smoothly since the opening at Geneva, O., winter quarters, May 4, and almost without a hitch. The show has eight car loads of show property more than it had at its opening. While the Southern trip has not been much profit, on account of small prices for cotton and small crops, we are pleased to say there has been no loss South, and we have broken in a great deal of new territory that the Fashion Plate has never visited in former years, which will be of great value in future visits. We played the eastern states solid for five consecutive months, and the business on Main's old stamping ground, where he has showed some towns as high as thirteen or fourteen times, was one continual boom, which convinces us of the good standing of the Old Reliabel 'Way Down East. We have had opposition with every show of any importance this season with most satisfactory results. In one New England town we came in contact with two of the greatest American shows in a friendly opposition. This town our people will long remember as North Adams, and curious as it may seem, six weeks after the three big shows in North Adams, we appeared again at another town twenty miles from there and closed the doors in the afternoon. Next Spring our season will open about April 15, so we will not be in winter quarters over four months. Our brand new brick and iron winter home is now all completed and ready to receive us, one mile west of the beautiful village of Geneva, on Ohio's greatest railroad, the ___. Travelers on that great road, looking on the north side of the tracks in the future, can readily see our commodious quarters. The following heads of departments have been re-engaged: E. C. ___, general agent; R. H. Dockrill, equestrian manager. Mr. Dockrill will also engage all performers. Dan Fitzgerald will make his future home in Geneva and will superintend the winter quarters, purchase all raw materials, and in fact fit out the entire show. Hugh Harrison, who got his first lessons in side show managing and was so many years with the Main Show in different positions, will come back to his old home and will not run his minstrel show any more. He will manage all the privileges from A to Z with the big concern for 1902, and in fact will look after everything excepting the big show and reserved seats. Mr. Main will not travel with the show next summer except to route ___, if he can secure a capable man to take his own place. He will no doubt spend two or three months in Los Angeles, Cal., this winter, with his family. The Main Show will be several cars larger next season.
Bonheur Bros.' Best Big 25 Cent Shows notes. We went into our own new winter quarters at Augusta, Okla., after closing late in November, to big business, at ____, just six miles out, where we showed to the full capacity of the tents. The very next day the weather turned extremely cold, and the show people were not a bit sorry to gt into the good warm quarters. The canvas men, under the direction of Ollie Parvell, got to work with hearty good will, and the bulky tents were soon thoroughly dried and stored away in the canvas room, a safe deposit chamber, where penetrating fumes of hartshorn and the moth killing properties of odorless blue vitriol render it unpleasant for rats and mice. Nothing terrifies a burglarious rodent like the nose piercing smell of hartshorn, and it serves equally as well in arresting mildew and moth, which are deadlier enemies to the canvas. Bonheur Bros. are more than ever determined to sustain the high moral standard of their wagon shows. The show was established under tented canopies at Jessup, Iowa, in the Spring of 1893, the World's Fair year, when shows all over the United States were feeling the effect of the great exposition in Chicago; but it steadily gained from the start and became established as a safe and clean exhibition, which ___ the church people as its friends and patrons, because of its strict morality and honest business methods. That its loyalty to these principles was rewarded by the public is attested by the fact that an "angel's visit" is unknown to the management, and the "man in white" always walks on salary day. The Bonheur Bros. insist that laugh producing "ginger" can be separated and free from the slightest gesture, word or look suggesting indecency, otherwise it is unfit for their ring or stage. A new dog and goat wagon and a capacious monkey cage are building, and another fine palace wagon is under construction at winter quarters. Some lady singer will have the use of the latter for the season of 1902, and the lucky one will find it fitted up with every convenience that an up to date prima donna could wish for in a private car. Performers from the East must not think that they are coming to the wild and wooly West when they join out with this show. Oklahoma has double the population of some of the States. The people are law abiding, and you seldom see nowadays a man with his trousers tucked in his boot tops and jingling spurs ornamenting his heels. Civility to strangers is the rule, and the dominating belief that this is a sparsely settled land, overrun with free booters and Indians is quickly dispelled, when one visits the country.
John Corriea and family have signed with Tony Lowande's Circus, now touring the Island of Cuba. They sailed Dec. 7.
Alexander A. Lowande has recovered from his injuries received while doing his act with the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Show, Sept. _.
George E. Holland and Rosa Dockrill were married Nov. 11, at Savannah, Ga.
The great success of "The Country Circus," recently at manager Blaney's Theatre, in Newark, shows that a parlor circus on the stage, as produced by Mr. Blaney and cleverly handled by his corps of able assistants, is a comparatively new, novel and pleasing show, and a winner at popular price houses. At the conclusion of the dramatic portion of the entertainment, and after the parade, the circus begins, and includes the following people: Ernest Melvelle, equestrian director; Josie Ashton Melvelle, lady rider; Johnny Purvis, clown; the Herberts, acrobats; the Starkeys, triple bars; ___, ladders, and the Marzellos, comedy stilts.
John D. Carey, press agent of the Walter L. Main Show, sends the Clipper a newspaper account of a test case in tax license. He states that he is advised that all the excessive licenses in the Southern States are unconstitutional, and can be reduced if circus owners combined to make a test case. It appears that when the Main Show played Palatka, Fla., on Nov. 27, it refused to pay the state tax of $200, as the show management claimed that it had paid it in Duval County, and that one State tax covered every county. The case was taken to court, and Judge Bullock rules that one State tax covered every county.
Chas. A. Bostwick, this season with advertising car No. 3, of Ringling Bros.' Shows, is seriously ill with appendicitis, at his home in Circleville, O.
The J. W. Gorman Indoor Circus has closed for a few weeks. It will open again in January, for a season of ten weeks. On the closing night, at Bangor, Me., Nov. __, R. L. Gorman was presented with a diamond pin, and Prof. Walberti, the equestrian director, was given a very handsome bridle, mounted with silver. The Bangor Lodge of Elks, 244, gave them an entertainment.
After the close of a successful season of promotion for street fairs, George L. Hutchin is at home in Portland, Ore., projecting a mammoth mid-Winter circus and menagerie for that city. He has leased the Mechanics' Pavilion and the Exposition, and will endeavor to make it one of the most popular amusement resorts on the coast, neither money nor pains being spared. The season will open just prior to the holidays and will continue for three months.
. . . Capt W. D. Ament has sold his Big City Show outfit to Murray & Co.
New York Clipper, December 21, 1901, pp. 922, 929. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Capt. Marion Fenner, high diver, who was last season connected with the Sautelle Show, writes that he will put out a forty horse show next season. Mr. Fenner has procured excellent backing and has bought a plot of ground on South Street, Glens Falls, N.Y., where he is having a building 100x150ft. built for a winter quarters. He has already bought eight horses, six of which he has now working at the International Paper Co.'s plant. The show will travel by wagon and tour a number of the eastern states. It will be known as Capt. Marion Fenner's New United Shows.
Twenty-five members of Walter L. Main's Circus, who were in a car on a switch at Macon, Ga., on Dec. 8, were considerably shaken up, and several were injured in a wreck. A train from Savannah crashed into their car, which had been side tracked with the switch left open. No one of the circus people is believed to have been seriously hurt, although one man on the other train was killed and many were wounded.
Jas. G. Wesson, professionally known as Jas. G. West, of Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Circus, was married to Katherine A. Vail, a non professional, by Father Coulton, pastor of St. Stephens Catholic Church, New York City, on Dec. 12.
Chas. H. Day, the well known circus man, was married to Gertrude H. Garvey in New York City on Nov. 29. The marriage has only just been announced. Mr. Day is fifty-nine and his bride is twenty-three years old.
New York Clipper, December 28, 1901, p. 943. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Walter L. Main Show notes. Our large new winter quarters at Geneva, O., were formally opened Tuesday, Dec. 17. True, the show went into winter quarters Thursay, Dec. 12, but Mr. Main waited until every piece of show paraphernalia had been securely housed before christening the new home and turning each department over to the different "bosses." Over two hundred guests accepted the invitations, and a right joly assemblage they were when gathered around the table in the dining hall of the quarters, after a tour had been made of the new buildings. . . . The new quarters are delightfully situated, just on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Geneva, and cover an area of twenty acres, just on the borders of the Lake Shore Railroad. The building is entirely of brick, heated with steam and lighted by electricity. While our quarters are all under one roof, they are perfect in division and each department is separate in itself, but whole as a winter quarters. The West section, or repair shop, is the first section that one enters after crossing the front grounds. This section is 130x170; next, the paint room, ___. The animal room, the pride of the quarters, is the most perfect that architects can furnish. It extends along the north side of the building 140ft., and is 100ft. in width. Here the cages are built stationary and are much larger than those used during the tenting season. The general storage room extends from the animal room to the south wall, and is 100x120ft. From that is the harness room, 75ft. square. The ring barn is south of the harness room and is 100ft. square, and is in itself an up to date gymnasium. The stable is at the east end of the quarters, and is 199x170ft. On either side are commodious stalls for the stabling of 160 head of horses. Here only will be kept the ring stock, while the draught horses will winter at Mr. Main's farm at Trumbull. Between the stable and animal quarters, and off of the ring barn, is the granery. Here is stored the hay and feed for winter use, and to keep which replenished almost the entire crop of Ashtabula county has been contracted for. West of the quarters proper is the workingmen's quarters, under the supervision of ___. Here the workingmen and ___ eat and sleep. The former have a large dining hall down stairs, and the latter a dining room upstairs. Apart from the living quarters is recreation hall, where the men can lounge, smoke, read and tell reminiscenses of their summer trips. This Mr. Main considers as essential as any other department. All the leading papers are on file, but the most conspicuous one is marked "Clipper." Four separate sidings run into the quarters from the main line of the Lake Shore Railroad, and the terminals of all these sidings are under roomy sheds, and here are stored the cars. All those who have inspected the new quarters pronounce them the most modern and perfect in use. Hugh Harrison will have charge of the side show, concert, candy stand and all privileges; R. H. Dockrill will handle all performers; Dan Fitzgerald, superintendent of MainShow, attends to all horses and workingmen, and Mr. Main looks after the executive staff only.
Welsh Bros.' (Circus Depot) notes. The work in our new a palatial winter quarters at Lancaster is rapidly progressing. As the show will be practically all new this coming season, a larger force of workmen than usual is required to complete the outfit. The new tents have arrived at the depot and are marvels of first class workmanship. The "big show" canvas will consist of a 120ft. round top, with three 50ft. middle pieces. The dressing tent will be a 60ft. top, with one 30ft. middle piece. The menagerie canvas, 80ft. top, with two 40ft. middle pieces. The side show canvas, __ft. top, with one 40ft. middle piece. The rolling stock will include ten cars with the show and two cars in advance, all elegantly equipped, the appointments in the two new Pullman sleepers being especially fine. The zoologic department will be made a special feature of, and will include fifteen cages of rare wild beasts, birds and animals. There will also be a herd of all kinds of hay animals, two elephants, four camels, sacred cattle, etc. As in past seasons, the same high standard of merit and excellence will pervade the "big show" exhibition. The personnel of performers will be all new and the acts radically different from any heretofore presented by the "Newest Great." Many of the best performers procurable have been signed, and only one ring will be used to exploit the various acts, although two acts will be presented in the majority of displays. One hundred horses and thirty ponies will be quartered in the equine stables, and these horses have been carefully selected and will compare favorably with many carried by the larger shows. A particularly interesting feature of the show will be the continuance of a first class culinary department. This branch of the show will be under the supervision of W. Howard Martin (tenth season). The bills of fare presented by this eminent chef always bring forth exclamations of great delight by the "troupers" - the "best ever" they all unite in saying The chief bosses of the different departments will include: Charles O'Brien, superintendent of lot; Herbert H. Whittier, bandmaster; V. Woodward, general advertising manager and director of car No. 1; Prof. John White, animal trainer, and Clinton Newton, director of amusements and general press agent (fifteenth season). The other positions will be filled by men of marked ability. The past season, which terminated Oct. 10, was a brilliant financial success, and the show was received everywhere with great enthusiasm by the newspapers and the public. With the new equipments and performances, the show should make a better impression, and will no doubt duplicate the great success it achieved the past season. Col. M. H. Welsh will be director general with the show; John T. Welsh, general advance manager, and Geo. A. Welsh, treasurer. . . .
Dashington Bros.' Show has gone into winter quarters at Danville, Ill. The show will open its season on April 15, with a 60ft. round top, two 30ft. middle pieces; horse tent 20x40, dressing room 30ft. round top, and cook tent 30x40ft., twenty head of horses and ten wagons, and two advance wagons.
Mrs. Sallie A. Carlisle, of Kansas City, Mo., sailed from New York City Nov. 13, and arrived in Paris, France, Nov. 21. She will spend the winter with her son, Prof. R. C. Carlisle (Wichita Jack), who is now general superintendent of the Barnum & Bailey Circus.
The Ty-Bells, Julian, Villette and Edith, go with the Ringling Bros.' Show next season. They will spend the holidays at their home in Chicago.
1902
New York Clipper, January 4, 1902, pp. 976, 985, 987. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Teets Bros.' R. R. Show notes. We are at present resting for the holidays at Mobile, Ala., after thirty-four weeks of fine business through the southern States. They will open again early in the new year, with most of the people retained for another season of thirty-four weeks. There will be several new features added for the coming season, both to the big show and side show. Several members of the company paid a visit to their homes for the holidays. Others will spend time hunting and fishing around Mobile. The carpenters and painters are busy getting ready for the opening.
Fred La Mont writes: "We are at home hard at work on a four wire act, for the Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Shows. This act will be a combination of wire work and acrobatics, and we will be known as the Carmen Troupe, as the principal member will be La Belle Carmen."
The Leon Sisters are booked for the coming season with the Ringling Brothers' Circus, to open in Chicago, April _.
Floyd Trover, of the Trover Bros., closed with Teets Bros.' Show, and is spending the holidays at his home in Beaver Falls, Pa.
Sun Bros.' Show notes. The weather the last two weeks has been very cold for a tent show. Last week the water froze in the car, and we had to build wood fires in the dressing room, but still the people come in overcoats and sit on seats and freeze. The weather is warmer now. We are working straight South.
Harry C. Harris has signed as general contracing agent of the Capt. Marion Circus for season of 1902, with a corps of six assistants.
The Pan American Circus and European Menagerie are in winter quarters at Tacoma, Wash.
The Fisher Family, three in number, arrived in this city Dec. 27. Anita Stirk arrived 29, and Marie Silbon will be here Jan. _. These will complete the ten people gathered together by Harry Potter for his big act, which will be known as the Potter Family. The troupe will be the leading feature with the Forepaugh Sells Brothers' Circus, for the tenting season of 1902.
Notes from the Whitney Big One Ring Shows. Everything is comfortably stowed away in winter quarters on the spacious fair grounds at Attica, O., and preparations are well under way for next season. 1902 will find the Whitney's to the front with one of the biggest and best attractions they have ever launched. The canvas will all be new, big top, horse tents, etc. . . . All special paper, from Donaldson Litho. Co., will be used by the two advance brigades. E. S. Murphy will again handle the contracting and first advance corps, while John Peach will attend to the skirmish and opposition forces. The band this season will be a special feature, and is in the hands of Prof. John S. Phillips, his fifth season in this capacity. Among the big features already engaged for the "inside" are the Three Marvelous Brownes, the Rhodes Family and the De Leons.
Del Fuego, proprietor of Richard & Co.'s Unique Side Show, has the following people: Lulu Del Fuego, tattooed lady; Frank Goldie, magician; Zara, snake enchantress; ___, Zulu; ___, mind readers; Prof. Bryon, Punch and Judy, and the original Del Fuego. Shorty Gallagher, boss canvas man, with two assistants; a __ft. round top and ten paintings.
New York Clipper, January 18, 1902, p. 1032. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Walter L. Main winter quarters. Everything is hustle and bustle, but with all discipline around winter quarters. Over one hundred men are busy daily, and Mr. Main seems determined to verify his statement that the Fashion Plate Show will go out in 1902 larger and better than ever. The buzz of the saw, click of the hammer and swish of the paint brush is merry music to his ears, as he notes the transformation that results. Every department is in full working order, and the system inaugurated and supervised by superintendent "Danny" Fitzgerald is perfect. In the blacksmith shop twelve new lot wagons are in the course of construction, and all the wagons and cages of last season are being overhauled. "Bob" Frozler, as boss painter and "Lew" Wright, its decorator, are as busy as the traditional bee in the paint shop, while William H. Winner, animal man, has a well attended school daily. Mr. Winner is breaking a new animal act for next season that promises to eclipse any before attempted. In it he is using no less than twenty-two cat animals, three elephants, two horses and a pair of bloodhounds. Winner's reputation as an animal breaker is well known, and he generally succeeds in all he undertakes. Eight head of draught horses were recently purchased by "Bob" Abrams and added to the stable. Prof. R. H. Dockrill has registered in winter quarters, and the snap of his whip resounds daily in the ring barn. Santa Claus did not overlook the stockings of the show men. In winter quarters a beautiful turkey dinner was served, and every workingman received a suit of heavy underwear and a pair of rubber boots. Ed. C. Knupp got a ___ roller top desk; "Danny" Fitzgerald received a swell turn out, a speedy four year old mare and runabout; W. W. Powers a set of Scotch bagpipes. In fact all the attaches of the quarters and office were subtantially remembered. Weather permitting the Fashion Plate Show will go out earlier than ususal in 1902, enlarged, better equipped with more special features than ever before. The executive staff will be made up of the same gentlemen who have so long been associated with the "governor."
Welsh Bros.' Newest Great notes. The yuletide holiday at the winter depot was spent in a most pleasant manner. The attaches were the recipients of many handsome and useful gifts from the Messrs Welsh. At the new residence of the proprietors, which is adjacent to the quarters, a big old fashioned Christmas dinner was served at noon, which was participated in by many visiting showmen, local newspaper scribes, and all of the attaches. The affair was hugely enjoyed by all present. . . . The newly constructed ring barn is presided over by Prof. John White, who is busily engaged in breaking new equine acts, including the big sixty horse display. The vehicle department has been augumented by the addition of a new steam calliope, musical chimes, car and ticket wagon. All are of modern and ornate build and present an imposing appearance. Among the latest engagements for the "dressing room circle" are: the Welcome 4-Paw company of aerialists, the La Rue troupe of star acrobats, Katamara Royal Court Japanese Troupe, George Colby, grotesque hurdle mule rider; Madame Collett's cake walking and dancing horses, Mlle Zanta, novelty aerialist, and Rey Ali's congress of Arabian whirlwind acrobats; these people will also introduce for the first time in this country the cake walking camels, accompanied by music upon native instruments. The comedy contingent will comprise: Wm. La Rue, principal clown; Harry F. West, German clown; Finning and Crawford, musical clowns; "Rube" Adams, rural grotesque, and Grimaldi Herbert, high stilt performer. The Great Marinetta, muscular ring expositor, has also been engaged as a special "billing" feature. H. Stanley Lewis will be advertising manager with the show (fourth season). The side show and vaudeville annex will be conducted upon high class lines and will contain a multiplicity of lot clearing magnets. The opening of the season is carded for the early part of April.
Theo. Ferris, boss animal man, is still with the Great Wallace Shows at Peru, Ind.
Notes from Hough & Huston's High Class Circus. We started from Marion, Ind., early in April. Mr. Huston was the well known general business manager of Gentry Bros.' Trained Animal Shows for the last three years, and is a successful showman of ability and hustling qualities. He should pilot the show to sure success. Mr. Hough, his partner, is a hustling business man of Marion, and one of the best known and best liked men in the city. He is a man of business, and owns large interests in the gas and oil fields in the surrounding counties. Mr. Hough and Mr. Huston have been fast friends from childhood. The amusement going people may expect one of the best shows ever witnessed under canvas this coming year, as these gentlemen will have the best that money can procure. The show will consist of trained animals and high class circus acts and the parade will be made a feature. We will carry twenty musicians in the band, and many novelties will be seen in the parade. Work has commenced at the quarters, and we expect to be in readiness for the opening early in April. The show ill put in a long season South.
Art Adair, of Art and Dot Adair, writes from Paris, France: "We are successfully fillng a winter's engagement with the Barnum & Bailey Circus at the Gallerie de Machines, Paris, France, after which we have a contract with 4 Paw-Sells Bros.' Circus for the coming tenting season, 1902. . . . "
Peter S. McNally has been appointed press representative of the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus, season of 1902. Mr. McNally has been connected with the Boston press for almost twenty years, and for the pst ten years has been a valued member of the repertorial staff of the Boston Globe. He has a wide reputation as an athlete. His is a brother of John J. McNally, the well known playwright.
The Potter Family and the Carmen Troupe will be among the strong attractions of the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus the coming season.
Notes from Barlow's Refined Shows. We commenced overhauling our wagons and fixtures Jan. 1. We are still at work in the training room on our dogs, ponies, goats and monkeys. So far we have booked Geo. Wymann, as contracting agent. This is the fifth season for Mr. Wymann with the Barlow Show. Newman Deal has signed, his second season. C. H. Zaro and Arthur Howe have also signed. We expect to have our stock and fixtures in first class condition, and will take the road April 26. . . .
Notes from the Great Marallo Show. We are now arranging to open in April,and will have a high class one ring circus and travel by rail, three cars, 80ft. top, two 40ft. middles, dressing tent 40x60. Kid show top 50x80, with a front of double deck paintings. Will carry about sixteen head of stock and forty people. The following people have been engaged: the Three Bellmonts, Snead and Collins, ___, La Verds, Russell and 4 Paw, and Roseline Stickney, with her dog circus. Frank Carpenter, contracting agent, with six assistants, who will fill the country with bright, new and attractive paper.
The following musicians have signed with Welsh Bros.' Circus for season of 1902: D. E. Dickson, Jas. Finning, D. Waldo, __ Snyder, H. H. Grim, Geo. La Val . . . J. Negro, ?. H. Brown, Ross Knight, Geo. Taft, W. J. Newmyer, J. L. Parsons, J. Bernhart, E. Griswold, C. Wright, and ?. H. Whittier, director.
Elfie De Rock will go with the Wallace Show next season. For her Christmas she received many articles of wearing apparel, a lovely locket, set in diamonds, and a proposal of marriage.
Harry C. Harris, general agent of Capt. Marion Fenner's Circus, is laying off at Meriden, Ct., preparing the route for season of 1902, which will be a tour of the eastern States. Capt. Fenner is trying to make his new enterprise one of the largest and best one ring circuses on the road. Business at winter quarters is very brisk, and the show is preparing for a long season. Wm. Hayes has signed as lithographer and programmer.
Business manager C. Thompson, of the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus, is spending the winter months at his beautiful plantation in Braidentown [sic], Fla., where he devotes most of his leisure time to the culture of rare plants and the development of his orange groves.
The Haag Show closed in Le Compte, La., on Dec. 30, and is now in winter quarters. The show will reopen about Feb. 20.
New York Clipper, February 1, 1902, pp. 1062, 1068. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Welsh Brothers' Show Notes. The big Annex and Combined Vaudeville Theatre which during the coming season will be one of the feature adjuncts with the Welsh Bros.' Railroad Shows, will have the following people to deliver the goods: Prof. Victor Hugo, manager; Mme. Hugo, Chas. Mellivan, Major Little Finger and wife, Mlle. Petrowsky, Prof. and Mme. Del Kano, Carter Sisters, Jackson's Jubilee Singers and cake walkers, and Prof. Elmer Parkinson, with his trained seals and sea lions. One of the special drawing cards will be the latest big city sensation, the 'cycle whirl, introducing three bicycle riders in sensational exhibitions. A brass band of eight pieces and a monster novelty orchestra will furnish the music. Captain W. White, late of the Detroit, Mich., fire department, has been engaged to give his remarkable high dive from a 100ft. ladder into a net below as a free outside exhibition. Another outside display will be the double balloon ascension and parachute jumps by Prof. J. D. Ericson and son. These gratuitous shows will be given twice daily in the various towns and cities that will be visited.
Johnnie Johnson and Edward Anderson have signed with the Geo. W. Hall Jr. Circus and Menagerie for the tenting season of 1902.
Prof. R. C. Carlisle, formerly manager of Carlisle's Historical Wild West, and for several months forage agent and assistant general agent with Barnum & Bailey's Circus, has been re-engaged for the winte season as general superintendent during the absence of Frank Hyatt, who sailed for America Dec. 1.
Hall & Long Big City Show notes. . . . We will open in Muncie, about April 28. We are busy remodeling and enlarging our show, and think we will have the finest little two car show on the road. Many of our last season's people will be with us again this season. Wilbur Fisher, cornet soloist, enters his third season; Lang and Kilmar, acrobats and bars, their fourth season; Capt. and Miss Morgan, their second season. We will use a 70ft. roung top, with two 40ft. middle pieces, and a 40ft. dressing tent. Everything will be new and in fine shape. Our sleeping and dining car has been remodeled, and, with a new 60ft. baggage car, the show will be complete.
Horace Webb, who was for the past two seasons with the Great Wallace Show, goes the coming season with John Robinson's Ten Big Shows, to do his novelty aerial act and clowning.
Joe Cousins and Pearl Lillian Kalar (non-professional) were married Jan. 9 at the home of the bride in Jackson, Miss., Bishop Galloway, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, officiating.
Chas. W. Beasie (door talker) has singed for 1902 with Great Wallace Shows, making his third season with the show.
Smith's Imperial Circus notes. We have arrived in Buckstown, Pa., where the show is quartered for the winter. Mr. Smith will personally oversee to the repairing and refitting of the outfit. The show will open April 21, and the coming Spring will inaugurate the fifth season with the show better in every way than ever before.
Mrs. Grace Mohring, widow of Arthur Mohring, who was killed in the leaps with the Barnum & Bailey Show, at Paris, France, on Dec. 6 last, on behalf of herself and her little daughter, expresses her deep gratitude to Mr. Bailey for his kindness in shipping her husband's body to his home in Dubuque, Ia., and also thanks to Mr. McCadden and her late husband's friends. The late Arthur Mohring is survived by his wife and a baby, one brother, three sisters and his parents.
Albert Orton has been re-engaged for next season with the W. H. Harris Nickel Plate Shows.
The Petet Family of acrobats and aerial bar performers will be with the Ringling Bros.' Circus next season. Wm. Vennerson will be one of the bar number.
Jas. A. Morrow, orator and side show talker, and his wife, Evadean Morrow, female bag puncher, closed a successful season of thirty-four weeks with the Sells & Gray Circus and joined Hagenbach's Trained Wild Animal Show.
The Sells-Gray Circus, which came to grief a few weeks ago, was sold recently at sheriff's sale at Algeria, La., just outside of New Orleans, bringing $7,625. The stock of ring horses and trick mules was bought by Martin J. Downs, and the balance of the horses by local dealers, altogether bringing $2,600. The Donaldson Lithographing Co. bought the rest of the show, paying $5,025.
Rays from the Sun Bros.' Shows. We are actively getting ready for our opening, early in April, in Atlanta, Ga. Blacksmith John Malone and his assistants are busy getting all wagons in shape and repairing them. Peter McWilliams is busy in the harness room looking over harness and parade trappings. W. S. Randolph, boss hostler, has the stock looking in the pink of condition, except a few head, which are to be sold and replaced by others. Sun Bros. will have one of the biggest and best wagon shows on the road next season. George Sun is in Florida with our winter show, and reports very good business. Pete Sun and Otto Steuer are in winter quarters looking after affairs and pushing the work along.
Chas. H. Tinney, cornettist, after spending a few weeks at his home, joined the Jno. H. Sparks Show at Jackson, Miss., on Jan. 12. The present roster of the band with the Sparks show, under the leadership of J. S. Kritchfield, is as follows: Al. Kadel, Dave Poland, J. S. Kritchfield, Chas. H. Tinney, T. W. Ballinger, Ernest Jones, Paul de Condo, Geo. Lowery, Jno. Ebersbach, Wm. E. Wheeler, Jno. Henry Jr. and Marion Abbott.
Otto Gleiser closed his third season with Sun Bros. Show at Atlanta, Ga., on Dec. 1, and is now at his home in Raleigh, N.C., for the winter.
Mrs. D. J. Fitzgerald, wife of the superintendent of Walter L. Main's Circus, died in Geneva, O., on Jan. 14. Paralysis was thought to have been the cause of death. She was thirty-eight years of age. The funeral services were held at the home on West Main Street last Thursday afternoon, and the remains were laid to rest in the cemetery there.
Fred Frank will remain with the Tony Lowande Circus in Cuba.
Pawnee Bill has engaged Sheik M. Bark Ben Basha's troupe of Arabian riders and acrobats, who will arrive in time to open with his Wild West show. The troupe is under the sole direction of Sheik M. Bark, who will be in Chester, Pa., at the winter quarters, prior to their opening.
Annie Oakley has left the Buffalo Bill Wild West Co., after seventeen years with that show, during which time she never lost a performance on her own account. At present she is resting at her Nutley, N.J. home, but she will be seen later on at the head of a show in Europe.
King E. Ziemer's Royal American R. R. Show notes. We will open our season on or about April 23. We have taken advantage of the fine weather and have done some repairing and retouching. This show will not be enlarged for the coming season, but we will have a brand new canvas, which for workmanship, fit and material cannot be excelled. The Beaumonts, Laverne, ___, and the Great Pitcher have signed.
New York Clipper, February 8, 1902, p. 1096. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Wm. Lucifer writes from Vladivostock, Siberia, under date of Dec. 3: "The above is the Russian calendar date; in America it is Dec. 16. So we are fourteen days behind here for our Xmas festivities. Since my last letter to the Clipper, from Java, some fourteen months ago, our route has been pretty well as follows: We closed one of the must successful, as well as pleasant, eighteen months' engagments with Harmston's Circus we ever played. Our farewell speaks for itself, as our presents were many and valuable. Leaving Singapore, S. S., Oct. 3, 1900, I, with my family and Tom Queen, made a tour of the ___ and Barneo Islands, arriving at Manila Nov. 14, 1900, and opened at the Alhambra Theatre, under the management of Whaley & Johnson, five days later, where, with the exception of a short tour to the Island of Luzon, we performed for ten months, without losing a night. Sailing from Manila July 14, our object point being San Francisco, by mere chance we landed at Yokohama, Japan, on the same date as the Flying Jordans' Co. Their offer was too tempting, so we joined them and played every principal city for Tokin to Nagasaka. In many of the cities the natives had never seen a white showman, nor big twelve-sheet circus pictorial poster and white tents. When any of our company appeared on the streets you would immediatly see that street blockaded from one end to the other with a crowd of curious, fantastically dressed, wooden shod natives. The same curiosity brought them around the big tent by thousands each evening, but on learning the price their curiosity would receive a severe shock. The majority contented themselves with remaining on the outside, staring at the tent and listening to the band play until the lights went out. In Japan is where the continuous is carried out, as their circus performances commence at eight o'clock in the morning and continue equally late in the evening. Mr. Jordan disbanded his company at Nagasaki, and the Flying Jordans, Forest Seabury (high diver), and Lucifers sailed for the far away Siberian port under two months per cent contract to Borosky's Royal St. Petersburg Circus, and our sucess has been far beyond our expectations. To fully describe Vladivostock and its oddly mixed population would require too much space. It is the sea port terminus of the Trans-Siberian Railway from Moscow across Russia and Siberia (just recently completed), eight thousand miles across, and is Russia's stronghold for all Chinese and Eastern possessions, also ticket of leave men; has a population of about ___, boasts an opera house that would be a credit to Broadway, where a stock company of seventy-five or eighty people alternate in putting on the latest operatic and dramatic pieces. Two Cafe Chantants, or music halls, of the go as you please order (very much Texas), two Chinese, one Japanese and one Corean theatre, and Borosky's Amphitheatre Circus building, seating about two thousand and built for the purpose of wintering here and giving performances during the time until Spring, and then return over his route through Siberia into Russia. He has decided to defer any further winter season here, and a special chartered steamer sailing from this port Dec. 18 will carry the entire Borosky Circus, including forty-two head of the finest trained horses and fifty-two performers and a ballet of thirty girls, direct to Manila. We will sail with them as far as that port, but will only remain a week or two until we can catch steamer for Japan, where we will spend four or five weeks at the hot springs, and then sail for dear old America, after an absence of six years. The Jordans and Seabury will remain with the circus."
Edw. Roberts, of the Roberts Troupe, writes: "At Bloomington, Ill., Jan. 20, there was quite a large gathering of circus people. The Royer Bros.' 'Next Door' Co. held the boards at the Grand Opera House. With their show are Archie Royer and the Roberts troupe of acrobats. At the Coliseum Edw. Shipp's Indoor Circus opened for a four day engagement. The roster includes: Edw. Shipp and wife, Ty Bell Sistesrs and J. Tybell, the Hobsons, Welcome and Forpaw, Vannerson and Garnell, the Siverton Trio, Alex. Lowande, Carlosa, Frank Smith, Frank (Slivers) Oakley, Wm. Seagrist, Lon Moore, Sam Bennett, Major Peanuts, Geo. Yammereit, and Geo. Kline, agent. The Flying La Vans are wintering at Bloomington, and it is also the home of the Fisher Family."
T. B. McIntyre, well known in the circus business, is very ill with congestion of the brain at his home in Columbus, O. Mr. McIntyre has many friends in England, Ireland and Scotland, as well as in America. He is a member of the New York Lodge, No. 1, Elks, and also a thirty-second degree member of the Order of Free Masons, belonging to the Mount Vernon Commandery, of Columbus.
The Shaws (Walt. and Rose), midair acrobats, played weeks of Jan. 12-19 at the Trocadero Theatre, New Orleans, La., with great success, and are now on tour with Teets Bros.' Railroad Shows through the southern States.
Notes from the Haag Show. Manager Haag has just returned from the East and North, where he purchased a royal Bengal tiger, two hyenas, and the lion cub Leo from Lincoln Park. He has also ordered from Sullivan & Eagle, Peru, Ind., four new cages, tableau, ticket and band wagons, which makes in all thirty-four wagons with the show. There will be eighteen cages and wagons in parade. Mr. Haag intends featuring the parade this season, amking it exceptionally grand, gorgeous costuming and wardrobe being entirely new. There are one hundred and twenty-five baggage stock and twenty-four Shetland ponies with the show. Show will have entirely new canvas, using a 90ft., with two 40ft. middle pieces; managerie a 70ft., with two 30ft. middle pieces; side show __, with a 30ft. middle piece; two horse tents, cook house and dressing room. Jas. M. Robinson will be the advance agent, making his third season with the show, with three bill wagons and six bill posters. Our old friend, director Harry Rhodes, who has been leading the band since 1895, has been re-engaged for next season, and will have twelve musicians. There will be twelve performers in the dressing room, in charge of Red Barker [Harker?], equestrian director, who at present is very busily engaged training ponies and dogs. Side show will be in charge of Frank Rosenthal (late of the Lemon Bros.). He will make openings and announcements. Side show consists of two ticket sellers, colored band of eight pieces, Mlle. Cleo's den of snakes, Mlle. Zarlick, Circassian princess; Pow Bwo, Zulu warrior; Frank Howe, fat boy; Major Getz, midget; Francis Wilson, George electric lady; George coon shouters, six in number; Prof. Rose, Punch and magic; a cage of monkeys, birds and crocodiles. Show goes out this season first class in every respect, grander, larger and better than ever. Will open last of February.
News from John L. Davenport's Ring Barn. The ring horses are running fine. Johnny Davenport Jr. is doing some exceptionally fine riding, doing somersaults from one horse to the other and twisting forward somersault from horse to horse. Stick Davenport is hard at work doing his principal champion bareback act, introducing backward back and backward forwards for the coming season. He and his wife are engaged with the Ringling Bros.' Show, also his sister, May Davenport and Reno McCree, to do their champion double jockey act. They also have a few new ones for the coming season. Orrin Davenport is hard at work on his horse May.
Notes from Richards' Unique Shows. We have been on the road ten months, playing to good business most of the time. We had two weeks of bad weather in December, but we never lost a stand. Our show looks much larger now since we absorbed the Campbell Brothers' Side Show. We had eight wagons when we left Donaldsonville, Ia., last March, and now we have fifteen. Joe and Hattie Richard, owners and managers; Shirly Morton, assistant manager; Del Fuego, manager of side show; George Vincent, advance agent; Tom Welson, band master; Shortie Baliger, boss canvs man; Blackey Gracie, boss hostler; King ___, boss properties. The show will stay out all winter, and lay up one week in March to repair the wagons for spring and summer.
Walter L. Main Show notes. Prof. Carl Neal, of the Royal Music Hall, Savannah, Ga., will direct a band of forty pieces with the show during the coming season. Ernie Houghton will have full charge of the stock with the show.
W. H. Quinnett has signed as contracting agent with the Campbell Bros.' Shows for the season of 1902, making his third season with that show.
W. J. Carter has signed with the Skerbeck's Great One Ring R. R. Show as general contracting agent, this making his secons season with that show.
New York Clipper, February 15, 1902, p. 1121. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
News and notes from Lucky Bill's Wagon Shows. Everything about the work shops at the winter quarters of this show is looking gay and bright, but the four busy painters who have been employed the last few weeks have informed Lucky Bill that it will be at least four weeks yet before that line of work will be completed. The ten carpenters who have just finished one month's work have received their pay in full and gone on their way rejoicing. Five new wagons have been added to this year's outfit, also a baby camel, and six baby monkeys have opened their eyes to the light of day at Stockton, Minn., the winter quarters of this show. Four more Shetland ponies have been added, which now makes ten in all. Lucky Bill has engaged Lew Herschel, with his troupe of performing dogs and goats, as one of the special features for the concert. He has also signed contracts with almost all big performers. The season will open about April 28, at Stockton, Minn., and the show will travel westward through Colorado. Ruby Atkinson has signed as secretary for the above show. . . .
New York Clipper, February 22, 1902, p. 1136. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
From the Forepaugh-Sells Show. The whirr of industry resounds throughout Sellsville, the winter quarters of the great Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus, at Columbus, Ohio, and in every department, from dawn till dark, there is the greatest activity in making preparations for the opening of the approaching season. Almost everybody connected with the mechanical department of "The Great Twentieth Century Colossus" has reported for duty, and the small army of artisans and skilled laborers are working assiduously to get everything in shipshape condition for this year's tour. Carpenters, painters, wheelwrights, blacksmiths, harness makers, electricians, canvas men, baggage grooms, chandeliers, sail makers, heads of culinary departments, railway men,car builders and other are laboring with untirting energy and zeal, and with a spirit of most friendly rivalry to complete the multiplicty of details that are required of an organization of the magnitude of this show. All the rolling stock is being thoroughly overhauled and repaired, wagons, chariots and cars. Great casks of paints and varnishes are being consumes; hundreds of book of gold leaf are being utilized in brightening up the chariots; hundreds of thousands of feet of lumber are replenishing a shortage of new materials; new seats are being constructed, stakes ovehauled, all kinds of defect remedied; tons of cordage being utilitzed in making new falls, stays and running gear; baggage grooms cleaning and repairing; costumers and wardrobe women manufacturing brilliantly attractive trappings; armorers cleaning and polishing everything in their department; car builders, contructing mammoth new cars; riggers splicing wire and hempen rope, and a variety of other occupations going on, too numerous to mention. A visit to Sellsville now is like a visit to a great naval plant when the preparations for the late Spanish-American war were at their height. Visitors are always welcom at Sellsville, and hundreds avail themselves daily of a sightseeing trip to this most interesting and instructive village. The Messrs Lewis and Peter Sells are on hand daily supervising the work, and while they are as busy as two queen bees they are eve courteous and affable to visitors. As employers they are held in the highest esteem by everybody connected with their vast enterprise, and from the heads of their departments down to the water boys they are always greeted with unmistakable evidence of good will. And they reciprocate this regard and watch over their employees with a real interest in their welfare. The Forepaugh-Sells Circus will enter upon the season of 1902 a greater organization than ever, and features are promised that will excel anything before presented. The street pageant will be one of unusual magnificence, and the menagerie will take rank with the best permanently established zoos in the world. The opening performance will be given at Madison Square Garden, New York, early in April.
Notes from the W. H. Harris World Famous Nickel Plate Shows. We open our twentieth annual tour at Birmingham, Ala., March 20, under the auspices of the local lodge of Elks. Mr. Wilson sends the roster complete for 1902: C. D. McIntyre, general agent; Amos W. McKinney, special agent; Clem Kerr, press agent; Henry ___, adjuster; Lew White, manager side show; Frank Shafer, manager candy stands; Jas. Keenan, manager tickets; Al. Armer, equestrian director; J. C. Burba, musical director; Matt Tobin, boss canvas man; Claude Orton, boss hostler; Chas. Trexler, trainmaster; Geo. Staples, chandelier man, and the following performers: Emma La Tour, Three Armens, Three Millettes, Seven Miles Orton Troupe, Tom Powers, Geo. Jennier, Hermon, Otto Weaver, Claude Orton, Albert Orton, and the Great Norman, Myron Michael troupe of acrobats and aerialists. The Nickel Plate Shows have engaged J. C. Burba's uniformed band and orchestra, composed of the following well known musicians: Bert King, solo cornet; Olande Gilson, cornet; Burt Patter, solo clarionet; J. Antoine, clarionet; Fred Johnson, solo alto; Emmet Lowery, alto; Chas. Mowry, solo trombone; Jas. Wilson, solo trombone; J. C. Burba, baritone; Tom Morris, tuba, and Fred W. Green, trap drummer.
Geo. Le Noir and wife have been engaged by Phil. Ellsworth to present their Marionette Theatre with the Great Wallace Show during the coming season.
Sam M. Dawson has been re-engaged to manage advertising car No. 1 of the Pawnee Bill Show.
Master James Brooks, the boy wire walker, is confined at his home, at Portsmouth, O., with a severe illness. He will not do his outside ascensions this season.
Notes from Bailey's Big 10 and 20 Cent Circus. Ralph Bailey, proprietor and manager. Everything is progressing nicely at the headquarters and all will be in readiness to open about May 1, at Marion, Ind. The show will be one of the neatest, best and largest of all small shows. We will have fifteen performers and a troupe of dogs and monkeys, with a fine band of twenty-four musicians, with will give daily concerts. We have a 90ft. top, two 40ft. m. p., and travel in our own special cars.
Welsh Bros.' midwinter notes. Since our last contribution to these columns the major portion of the coming season's preparations have been finished. The cages, dens, chariots, tableau cars and band wagons have received the final touches of the embellishers and decorators, and are a most gorgeous sight to behold, "all blazoned in crimsona and gold." The street parade this season will be exactly as the show posters read, "a megatberian processional amazement." General agent John Welsh has completed his roster for the advance with the following people: car No. 1 - V. O. Woodward, manager; E. E. Meredith, press agent; Chas. Moore, boss bill poster; M. E. Hall, George Corby, Sam Bearley, Frank McDonald, Jack Porter, Ed Ruth and Sam Gibbons, bill posters; Harry [or Barry] Starr and Frank Kane, lithographers; Geo. Wilson, banners, and ___, programer. Car No. 2 - Jack Scott, manager; Ed. Wilson, boss bill poster; Frank Call, George Johnson, Ed. Whitney, Ed. Long and George Hall, billposters; Dick Fordney, lithographer,and Harry Clay, programmer; Nick Nary, twenty-four hour agent, and Prof. Wm. Lansdowne, stereoptican exhibition. For the various other departments of the show the following have recently signed: Mannie Forepaugh, Prisian menage performer; King Cole, mimic and vertriloquist; John K. Trewits, musical performer; W. C. Lane, side show orator, and Misses Rose, Williams and Ricardo, bicyclists, for the 'cycle whirl act. Car manager Woodward, supt. O'Bryan and director of amusements Newton are now domiciled in our business offices at the Winter depot, looking after the interests of their different department. Both of the "Governors," the Messrs. Welsh, are away upon an extended trip pertaining to equine and railway matters. They are expected home during the latter part of February. Although the weather is extremely cold here at present, we have had plenty of notable circus and theatrical visitors at the quarters during the past few weeks . . .
Doc Morris, light and heavy balancer and clown, who was taken ill while traveling with Robt. Stickney's Circus through the South, is much better and is resting at his home in Hamilton, O.
Young Cyclone has just returned from Paris, where he played with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, and had a very successful season. He has a new sensational bicycle act, which he is now breaking in for the coming tenting season.
Lewis Wilkins, who was professionally known as "The Kentucky Giant," and who stands 8ft. 2in. high, recently returned to this country, and has announced his retirement from professional life.
John Foster, the once popular clown, and pantomimist, is confined to his home __ Greenwich Avenue, New York, with rheumatism.
The Richards have met with such success through Mexico with the Orrin Bros.' Circus that they have been re-engaged for an indefinite period.
G. Albert Schmitt, late flutist of Bronson's Concert Band, has been engaged by W. N. Merrick, for his band with the Forepaugh-Sells Show.
A. C. Orcutt and Chas. H. Mitchell have formed a partnership for the coming season and will take out a big vaudeville circus, which is said to be a new idea of Mr. Orcutt's. They are having built a new 60ft. r.t., 40ft. m. p., and will carry a band of twelve, also a troupe of trained ponies, dogs and goats. Week stands will be played in cities and big towns. Roscoe Pringle is business manager and Bessie Taylor is treasurer.
New York Clipper, March 8, 1902, pp. 23, 33. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
At Paducah, Ky., on Feb. 14, the well known showmen, H. E. Allott & Company, purchased from the Terrell Bros. the entire plant of Buckskin Bill's Wild West Shows, consisting of a magnificent railroad train, two hotel cars, two sleeping cars, six 70ft. flat cars, six stock cars, two 60ft. baggage cars, two handsome advance cars, canvas, seats, lights artillery and implements of war, stage coaches, band and baggage wagons, tableau floats, 200 head of horses, ponies, mules, donkeys, etc. All of this paraphernalia will be newly painted and greatly enlarged in every department. When the show opens this Spring the entire spread of canvas will be brand new. Every department will be under the supervision of competent showmen, and the parade will be exceptionally grand, the gorgeous costuming and wardrobes being entirely new. The familiar face and figure of Colonel J. C. O'Brien, the general director, can be seen daily about the show's winter quarters, and his will be the guiding hand of the show during the coming season. A feature of Buckskinn Bill's Wild West Shows this season will be the absence of gambling, games of chance, or any unlawful devices. The management has decided to strictly enforce this resolution. Harry W. Semon, the well known circus agent, has been engaged as general agent. He will have the entire charge of the advance and will be assisted by a score of trustworthy agents, and an army of billposters, lithographers, programmers and banner men.
Notes from the Berkell Show. The roster is nearly complete and everything will be hustle and bustle around winter quarters in a few days. Mr. Berkell will close his hall show about March __, and will then jump to Neola, Ia., where the show opens May 3. Everything will be new. We will use an 80ft., with two 40ft. middle pieces, 60ft. menagerie top and __ft. dressing room. The people already signed are: Prof. Chas. E. Rice, with his dogs, ponies, mules and monkeys, as one of the special features; the St. Albans Sisters, on the double trapeze; Mlle. ___, flying perch and loop walking; Lamertine and __ Fore, comedy rings and grotesque tumbling; Mlle. Dair, featured in her wonderful atc, the cloud swing, for outside attraction; the marvelous Rauf, twentieth century wire performer. Another feature will be our clowns, which will be headed by Frank O'Neill and Harry West. Our band will be as strong as the best, led by C. O. Parmley, and costumed will be something to talk about. We will make a strong feature of our concert, having a first class orchestra, led by D. Loomis, and we have engaged special people for same, among whom are Lena Kline, coon singer and dancer. C. C. Matthews and Mrs. Berkell will have charge of the front door; Prof. Chas. Rice, equestrian director; Chas. Chandler will have charge of canvas, with seven assistants. We think we will laud a winner the coming season.
Jack Cousins, the well known jockey rider, has just returned to his home after finishing as equestrian manager of the "Barnum & Bailey Society Circus" in Boston. He will open with the Brooklyn Riding Club Circus, which began on Feb. 19.
Roster of the business staff of Sig. Sautelle's Circus: Sig. Sautelle, proprietor and manager; Frank A. Robbins, general manager; David Haley, contracting agent; Burt K. ___, superintendent No. 1 advertising car; Chas. Ewers, equestrian director; J. F. Ogdne, manager of annex; John Kent, master of transportation; Frank Smith, superintendent of stock.
Harris' Circus notes, wintering at Birmingham, Ala. We will open the coming tenting season here Thursday, March __, for three days, giving an Elk's burlesque circus. Everything in winter quarters is all in readiness for the opening. The present weather is good for circuses or outdoor amusements. Miles Orton, late of the Miles Orton Circus, has joined the show as equestrian director. Mrs. Harris has fully recovered from her recent illness. Manager Chas. C. Wilson and wife have returned from an extended visit through Florida.
Prof. R. C. Carlisle was a forage agent last season with the Barnum & Bailey Circus. He was recently announced as assistant general agent, and he writes the above statement in correction of the error.
Prof. Frank Macart, and ___, snake enchantress, have signed with the Gollmar Bros.' Circus for the coming season, which will make their third season with the show. Mr. Macart will be license adjuster and side show manager.
Hough & Huston's High Class Show notes. We are fast getting in shape for the coming season, and from all indications we will have the best popular priced show on the road. We are building it in Marion, Ind., Mr. Hough's home, and are quartered in the large brick building formerly used for manufacturing purposes, which makes a very desirable circus quarters. We have bought about thirty head of ponies and large horses. The new parade wagons are being shipped in. Crystal Slipper, Blue Beard, Robinson Crusoe, Red Riding Hood and Jack the Giant Killer floats are completed and will be a feature in the children's department. Harry Howard and his troupe of ten ponies, eight baboons and twenty dogs are engaged for the season. Edward Musliner, with his trained pigs and sheep, are also engaged. Sam Bozeman [Boseman?] and his four trick donkeys will amuse the old and young. Many high class circus acts are engaged for the coming season with this show. T. A. Ogden, the well known bandmaster, formerly with Gentry Bros.' Show, is engaged to take charge of the band of twenty members. The street parade will be new and the big show will be like the old fashioned one ring and an elevated stage. The menagerie top will be an eighty, with a thirty foot middle piece. The big top will be a hundred, with two forty foot middle pieces. This show will play mostly cities, and will open in April.
Notes from the winter quarters of Buckskin Bill's Wild West, at Paducah, Ky. . . . The new and original line of special litho printing is completed and the first shipment has arrived at winter quarters. The parade this season will excell any attemp of this kind ever made. H. E. Allott & Co., will have a few surprises that will be novel and original.
___ and L. M. Watson have signed with the Lemen Bros.' Show band for the season of 1902, which will make their second season with that show.
Notes from Lowery Bros.' New Olympia Shows. D. R. James and Geo. B. Lowery are equal owners, and Geo. B. Lowery is managers. Everything is progressing nicely at our new winter quarters, which were erected on the D. R. James estate last Fall, and all will be in readiness to open our tow shows early in April The company is carefully picked one for the different departments, and when they appear on deck they will find everything new from marque to dressing room. . . . Mr. Lowery has just returned from his trip, and he has been arranging for new tents for both shows. The season of 1902 will find us a greater organization than ever, and features are promised that will excel anything before presented. No. 1 show will open early in April, at Shenandoah, Pa., and No. 2 at Pittsburg, about the middle of May.
"Lucky Bill," proprietor and manager of the Lucky Bill Overland Shows, and his secretary, Ruby Atkinson, paid a flying visit to Minneapolis and St. Paul last week, and spent a very enjoyable time among professional friends. "Lucky Bill" is very busy at his winter quarters in Stockton, Minn. preparing for the opening of his shows, which will occur about April 28.
Notes from Frank Adams' Great Southern Ry. Show. We closed two weeks ago for general repairs and painting, which were much needed, as the show has been out since the eighth of last March. Mrs. Adams has quite a novel and interesting feature which is original with her. While swinging by her teeth she does a three minute club act. The show opens in Atlanta, Ga., on March 7.
New York Clipper, March 15, 1902, pp. 57, 58. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Geo. S. Ely's Two Big Shows. Everything is comfortably stored away in the winter quarters, on the large and commodious fair ground at Harrisburg, Ill., and preparations are well under way for the tenting season of 1902, which will find Geo. S. Ely's old fashioned one ring show to the front with one of the biggest and best overland shows east of the Mississippi. This will be the eleventh season of the Ely Show, which has always been a success. Our big top will be a 70ft., with one 40ft. middle; side show, 60ft. round top, with ten 12x16ft. banners; dressing tent, 40ft. round top; horse tent 30x60; cook house 20x30. There will be sixteen wagons all told, one large passenger bark, two cages, one lion den, one happy family cage, which will be featured in the side show. Thirty-six head of stock will be used to pull the show over the road. The show will head direct for Indiana and Michigan, and will employ forty-six people. Prof. Samuel Ellinger has charge of the band, with nine solo musicians, and the band will be a feature in our big street parade. Del Fuego has the general management of side show, with six people. Albert Gaston, principal clown and equestrian director; Rob Miller, boss canvas man with eight assistants; Earl Woodey, in charge of props, with two assistants; John Howard, in charge of stock, with two assistants; Mary Howard, in charge of cook tent. Twelve trunks in the dressing room, nine people in the band. The show will take the road on April 14.
Notes from the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus. Upon the close of the Sportsmen's Show at Madison Square Garden an army of mechanics and laborers will at once begin work to get the place in shape for the great Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus. They will work night and day until everything is in readiness for our proper reception. The splendid opportunities for the proper presentation of a great circus afforded by the mammoth Madison Square building will be taken advantage of this year to the fullest, and an entertainment is promised that will eclipse anything in the circus line ever seen in America. The grand entree will be the most imposing spectacle of the kind ever attempted. There will be sensational features enough to insure the success of a half dozen tenting enterprises and several of the acts are absolute novelties. The street parade in New York will be one of the most gorgeous pageants ever seen in the metropolis and will rival the Mardi Gras procession of New Orleans. Rehearsals have begun for many of the big acts at the winter quarters at Sellsville, Columbus, O. The riding specialties will be away above par and the aerial acts most fascinating. Within a fortnight the great train with will transport the gigantic combination from Columbus, O. to Gotham will be in readiness, and a few days later the entire outfit will be speeding eastward. Twice as much money has been spent this winter in equipping the show than has ever been spent before, and the salary list of performers is greatly in excess of last season. At the inaugural performance in Madison Square Garden a host of distinguished people will be present as guests of the proprietors and the management. . . .
Notes from the Great William Sells & Downs Consolidated Shows. We will open in Cincinnati about the middle of April. Twenty-six cars will be required to transport the aggregation this season. Fifteen new cages and tableaux have been ordered. Four elephants, the only living bovalapus, and many other animals have arrived at the winter quarters at Carthage. J. M. J. Kane, formerly general agent of Al. G. Field's Minstrels, has the advertising privileges, and will be general press agent and manager of car No. 1. William Sells and his partner, Martin Downs, are in Cincinnati, paving the way for the Spring opening.
Notes from the Tony Lowande Circus, touring Cuba: The company arrived in Cienfuegos Feb. 6, and turned people away at every performance for nine days. The features of the company are: the Carl Dammann family troupe of acrobats, Orrin Bros.' group of performing animals, and "Bratas," the riding lion, performed by the unrivaled Henry Welton. Roster: Tony Lowande, proprietor and manager; Isidore Ortega, general advertising agent; Pablo Tejo, assistant general agent; Pablo Pol, equestrian director; Josef Tucker, musical director; Carl Dammann Family, six in number, acrobats; Loyal Family, aerialists and bar performers, four in number; Henry Welton, performing animals; Martinho Lowande Jr., somersault equestrian; Marretta Corriea, equestrienne; ___ Lowande, equestrienne; Harry Higgins, mule hurdle rider; John Corriea, aerialist; John Corriea Jr., wire act; Mlle. Adele, contortionist; Hermina Garcia, single trapeze; Three Brothers ___, acrobats; Wm. Tessiere, head balancing trapeze; Aurelio Reyes, Cuban clown; Chas. Thomas, balloon ascensionist; Gabion Rivera, pantomimist; Louisa Zequiera, pantomimist.
Notes from Barlow's winter quarters, So. Milford, Ind. Blacksmiths, painters and harness repairers are all at work now at our little wagon show. All will be in first class shape by opening date, April 26. Our dogs and ponies and monkeys are all doing aneat act. F. A. Roof is now here in charge of stock. . . . Roster: people signed thus far are - Geo. H. Wymann, advance; N. Deal, wire; Zaro, contortionist; Frank Decker, juggling; Burt Morris, trapeze; Frank ___, musician; Barlow Sisters, statuary; F. A. Roof, charge of stock; Carl Yoder, charge of canvas; Ella Barlow, treasurer; Ed. P. Barlow, manager.
Al. G. Millens, principal clown and equilibrist, is now resting at his home in Milwaukee. He has signed for the coming season with the Skerbeck's Great R. R. Shows, this making his first season with that show.
Owen Albert, trombonist, opened with the Haag Show at Le Compte, La., on March _.
Master James Brooks, the boy wire walker and trapeze performer, has signed with Augustus Jones' Model Plate R. R. Shows for 1902, as one of the leading features. It will be his second season with that show.
Oscar Lowande has closed a successful twelve weeks' engagement with Orrin Bros., Mexico, and is now at Columbus, O., awaiting the opening of Forepaugh-Sells Bros. in New York. This will make his fourth season with the latter show.
Davy Warren, jockey and acrobat, has signed with the Robinson Show for the coming season.
Roster of La Mont Bros.' One Ring Circus and Trained Animal Exhibition: Will H. Larella, foot juggler and balancing trapeze; Wm. Brawn, slack wire and juggler; Mr. and Mrs. McCombs, double trapeze; Fontella Bros., aerial bars; Nettie Wayne, dancing tight rope; ___ Green and Harry ___, clowns; three La Monts, acrobats; A. Earnhart, with his cornet band, twelve in number. Everything will be new, and three Cross cages have just been turned out at the shop. The show will open at Salem, Ill., on May 3.
Welsh Bros.' notes. The day and date is set for our opening. It will open, rain, tempest or sunshine, on Saturday, April 12. Our new big street parade will be given for the first time on the night of April 11. The parade will be augmented with all kinds of pyrotechnic accessories and a monster torchlight contingent. The citizens of Lancaster intend to make this even a gala one - numerous secret orders and societies, accompanied by local bands, will be in the line of march. The parade will be headed by a platoon of city policemen, all mounted upon handsome white horses. Our ring barn is the centre of much attention at present. Under the able ___ of Prof. John White, the new equire acts are being brought to a high degree of prefection. The "sixty performing horses at one time" act is completed and will be a praiseworthy addition to our entertainment. Director of amusements Newton has prepared a programme of high class events, and declared with much enthusiasm that it is the best dressed and most meritorious show his employers have ever given him to handle. ___ Sylvester, the "limber limbed" specialist, has just been added to the arenic corps. The new Pullman sleeper "Lancaster" has arrived here from the shops. This palace on wheels has been especially built for occupancy by performers and musicians. It is elegantly furnished throughout with new equipments and sanitary arrangements. The car also contains separate state rooms for the occupants. Annex director Victor Hugo and wife, Maude Forepaugh, Bey Ali and troupe and ___ Taft have arrived here, and are making preparations for the opening. Both of the Messrs Welsh have arrived home from lengthy busines trips, bringing with them a car load of fine dapple gray horses and several zoologic animals. The advance brigades are all in apple pie order, and will soon take the road with a bunch of young and energetic publicity promoters.
Oscar Lowande's wife and daughter join him in Columbus, O. shortly, where they are to practice their three horse carrying act for the coming season with Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Circus.
Bonheur Bros.' Show notes. Frank L. Granger and wife have signed to go with the show. W. York, formerly owner of York's Mammoth "Uncle Tom's Cabin" Co., will be with us the coming season. Charles W. Spencer, nephew of Birney Gaylord, deceased, who spent the greater part of his life in foreign lands in the business of capturing wild animals for menageries, begins his first year in the show business with this show this season, and Fred Withers has signed as cook.
John A. Kelley goes with the Lowery Bros.' Shows the coming season, which will make his fourth season with that show.
Notes from Augustus Jones' All New Model Plate Railroad Shows. We will open the season in April, near Cincinnati. Mr. Jones has just purchased a fine Pullman sleeping car. The same business staff and heads of each department who were with the show last year have been re-engaged for the coming tenting season. Dock Lano will again manage the annex. He has promised a new and sensational feature for the museum, one never seen in this country before.
George A. Stark and Alex Runkell, of New York, who have been spending the past year at Milwaukee, have signed with the Forepaugh and Sells Bros.' Show for the coming season.
"Lucky Bill," proprietor and manager of the Lucky Bill Shows, made a very pleasant pleasure trip to Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, Ashland and other northern cities week before last, and spent several days among old professional friends. Ruby Atkinson, secretary of the show, accompanied him. This will be Miss Atkinson's second season with the above company, which will open about April 28, at Stockton, Minn.
Harry F. West and Millie Zanta were erroneously announced as being with the Berkell Shows for the coming season. They have signed with the famous Welsh Bros.' Shows, the present being their fourth season with this aggregation. Mr. West will do German clowning and Miss Zanta aerialistic acts in the big show, and both will appear in the after show in vaudeville.
The tent storgage sheds of the King E. Ziemer Royal American Shows were destroyed by fire on Feb. 4. A brand new outfit has just been received, and both new and old were consumed. The other buildings were at a safe distance, and no loss was sustained, as the outfit was fully insured. The origin of the fire is not known. The other new canvas will arrive in a few days, and everything will be in readiness to open April 17. New additions are the Hardell Bros., triple bar experts . . .
New York Clipper, March 22, 1902, pp. 78, 82. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the winter quarters of Dean Sautelle's Highest Class Shows. We are in no way connected with the Sig. Sautelle Show, and will open our first season early in May, and will be known as the Great Sautelle Hightest Class Shows, Museum, Menagerie and Trained Animal Exposition, Dean Sautelle, sole proprietor and manger, with winter quarters at Burlington, Vt. The show will open at Burlington, and tour Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts and northern New York. It is to be an overland show in every respect, and will employ about 80 people, 35 wagons and 110 head of stock. The spread of canvas will be as follows: big top __ft. r. t., __ft. m. p.; menagerie top, 60ft. r. t., 140ft. m. p.; side shows __ft. r. t., 140ft. m. p.; dining, dressing and horse tents. Frank Grant has signed as contracting agent, and will travel from stand to stand in a specially constructed automobile, now being built at Westboro, Mass. The machine is to be built extra strong, to withstand the hardships of the country roads. The second brigade will have Edwin Stone as manager, with two advertising wagons, six billposters, lithographer and banner man. The third brigade will have one advertising wagon and two programmers. The fourth brigade or opposition wagons will be fully equipped with a Lubin's cineograph and stereopticon machine. Altogether it is to be the finest advertising brigade ever sent out to herald the coming of a tented exhibition. Mr. Sautelle is building everything new, and the winter quarters present a busy scene. Blacksmiths, wheelwrights, harness makers, woodcarvers and painters are on the hustle from dawn to dark. Mr. Sautelle left March 10 for the West, to buy up stock. In his last letter home he states that he has bought a fine lot of dapple grays, which are expected to arrive this week.
Edw. Musliner, with his troupe of educated pigs and sheep, has contracted with the Hough & Houston Show for the coming season. He has this season five sheep and three pigs.
J. S. Leon, of the Great Pan-American Shows, Lemon Bros.' Circus, who has been wintering at Portland, has joined the A. O. F. at Portland, and will be made an Eagle at Seattle shortly. The show is at Racoma, and will open in April.
Stevens & Hoyle's Vaudeville Circus has 100ft. round top, with two 50ft. middles. The owners are E. P. Stevens, late of Chicago, and B. Butler Boyle, of Brooklyn, business manager of Corse Payton's attractions and the Lee Avenue Theatre. The show's winter quarters are at Astoria, L.I.
Notes from Bonheur Bros. Ollie Purcell and Milo Millar have signed. Bob Ward will play this year his second season with the Bonheur Bros. J. R. Bonheur has been kept close to winter quarters the past winter with painful rheumatism. He was severely hurt in a runaway last season, the wagon he was riding in being overturned.
Notes from Gettle Bros.' Show. Everyone is busy around Gettle Bros.' winter quarters. They are making great preparations for the coming season. Charley Boss is overseeing the painting of the wagons. Everything is brand new from tent stake to cenre pole. Size of tent, 80ft. top, with two middle pieces. Wm. J. Kelly, equestrian director, has arrived in winter quarters. We are signing only first class performers, and will carry about forty people. Neither time nor money is spared, and when we open on May 9, in Nelsonville, it will be one of the neatest and best 25c wagon shows that every went on the road.
R. H. Armstrong (Happy Bob) has signed with the Walter L. Main Big Fashion Plate Shows for this season to do his clown act, which he has much improved.
Under the guidance of William F. Cody, "Buffalo Bill," 5,000 Swedes are to be colonized in the Big Horn Valley, in Wyoming. Col. Cody is in Chicago, arranging matters pertaining to this plan.
New York Clipper, April 5, 1902, pp. 119, 129. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from F. M. Myers' Little Giant Show. Everything is hustle around winter quarters at Tipton, Ia., and we are rapidly getting ready for opening, which will occur in Tipton, on May 1. The show will be enlarged throughout, inside as well as outside, and features will be stronger. Almost all the same people have been re-engaged for the season, and we have added two more fine new wagons. We don't claim to have the finest and best equipped little show in the Northwest. Everything is a glitter of gold (red, white and blue) from stake to flag staffs. The show will carry eight wagons, fourteen head of stock, band of eight pieces, 50ft. round top, dressing tent and two sleeping tents. Will play around our same old route, Iowa, Minnesota and South Dakota.
Notes from the Whitneys' Big One Ring Shows. Carpenters and painters are nearly finished, and the show will be in readiness for the opening, which occurs on April 28. This season's attractions will be the strongest and best we have ever launched. Roster: A. V. Whitney, proprietor; C. A. Whitney, general manager; L. P. Whitney, equestrian director; W. Walbourn, press representative; E. S. Murphy, general agent; John S. Phillips, leader of band; Nelson ___, leader of orchestra; "Shorty," boss canvas man, with six assistants; Homer Munson, boss hostler, with three assistants; Shields and Goldie, brothers, carrying and sailor perch; the ___, Harry and Nellie, slack wire, juggling, pantomime and lady clowns; W. C. Jenkinson, high wire, traps and rings; the Walbourns, Will and Irene, statuary; Packard, silence and fun, and the Zolas, revolving ladder and comedy table. Equestrian director L. P. Whitney has an entirely new and gorgeous opening spectacle entitled "A Reception to Royalty," which will entirely eclipse all our former efforts in this line. Mrs. G. L. Whitney will have charge of the privileges, and John Peach the country and skirmish routes with the advance. The band, under the direction of Prof. John S. Phillips, included the following musicians: John S. Phillips, L. P. Whitney, ___ Howard, ___, Harry Fink, Frank Brewster, W. A. Lang and W. Walbourn.
Notes from Skerbeck Great One Ring R. R. Show. The following people have signed for the season of 1902: Prof. ___, trick horses, ponies and dogs; J. Cull, triple bar performer; Hobbins and Childers, return act and aerial bars; Prof. Strahl, balloonist and high diver; Manada Skerbeck, contortionist; A. J. ___, trick clown and equestrian; Frankie Skerbeck, clown; J. C. Murphy, knockabout clown; Prof. McGill, cannon ball juggler and iron jawed man; Pearl Skerbeck, acrobat; Edith Skerbeck, snake charmer; Joe Paffen, magician; Earl Family, acrobats, ten in number; ___ Bessie, leader of band, sixteen in number; W. J. Carter, advance and contracting agent; Geo. J. Lucas, boss bill poster; John W. White, boss canvas man; Kelly, assistant; J. C. ___, boss chandelier man; Hill, the great boss hostler.
Martinho Lowande and Harry Higgins have just returned from the West Indies. Mr. Lowande has signed with Forepaugh-Sells Circus, and Mr. Higgins will play dates the coming season.
Young Cyclone has signed with the Stevens & Boyle Vienna Vaudeville Circus for the season of 1902, to do his ride for life down the steep incline of a 70ft. extension fire ladder, under the name of Mons. Cyclone.
The W. H. Harris World Famous Nickel Plate Show notes. Our twenty-first season commenced at Birmingham, Ala., March __, under the auspices of the Elks. Ideal weather prevailed, and the result was overflowing business, with three turn aways out of six performances. Press and public alike were loud in their praise of the outfit and performance, there being nineteen numbers, containing forty-two distinct acts, quite an array for a popular price show.
The original De Onzo Brothers have just closed their vaudeville show, after a prosperous season, and have consolidated with Fred Darling, of dog and pony show fame, and will place on the road this season a first class circus, and travel in their own cars. They will open the season at Hamilton, O., early in May.
Augustus Jones' All New Model Plate Railroad Shows will open the season at Huntington, W. Va., on April 16. The entire show was shipped from Chicago to Huntington last week. Everything is progressing well, and the show is booked up with first class talent. The business staff remains the same as last season. Prof. J. T. Martin is band director, with twelve musicians. Doc Leno will manage the side show. This will make his third season.
New York Clipper, April 12, 1902, p. 154. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Great Sells-Downs Shows will soon leave winter quarters at Carthage, O., for a tour of the country from coast to coast. The fifteen new cages finished by Bode are gems. Prof. Berris and his forty horse act, and Miss Edna, the famous somertault rider, will be two of the many great features with the show this season. Martin Downs is looking after everything at the winter quarters, and William Sells in busy with the other departmenst of the show. Tom Howard is the railroad contractor, and J. M. J. Kane is general press agent, and will have the exclusive advertising privileges. He will also manage the No. 1 advance car.
Theo. Ferris, boss animal man, has been re-engaged with the Great Wallace Show for the coming season, which will be his third seasson with that show.
Manager Leon W. Washburn has engaged Major Piet Joubert, late of the Boer Army in the Transvaal, for his New Combined Shows during the coming season. Mr. Joubert will produce a ballet milliant, using twelve horses, and will have charge of the rough riding portion of the programme. Lucius Foster will have charge of the tents, and Prof. Gregory's band of fourteen musicians will furnish the music.
Tony Leland, late of the team of Leland and Leland, has signed for the coming season with Skerbeck & Co.'s Great One Ring Circus, opening May 10.
The Misses Hagen and Delmar, who have been for the past two seasons with Robinson's Circus, have signed with the Great Wallace Shows for the coming season. Miss Hagen has spent a very pleasant winter in Charleston, S.C.
Notes from King E. Ziemer's Royal Shows. Everybody is busy about our quarters, and we will be in fine shape on our opening day, April 17, with a grand array of talent. New additions: ___, Louis Higgins and the Arthurs.
King E. Ziemer's Royal American Show notes. . . . Our latest addition is Wm. J. Lenhardt, New Century Combination Aerial Novelty. Our new band wagon, "The White Swan," will be turned out of the shops shortly; seating capacity, fourteen. Louis Wiggins will have charge of band. No unnecessary paraphernialia is carried with this show. We take only the necessaries, and find that plenty. Tents are all new; and everything is in first class order to open April 17.
The Cummins Indian Congress and Wildest West Co., capital $1,000,000, was incorporated in Trenton, N.J., on April 4, to own and manage Indian and Wild West shows. Incorporators: Frederick T. Cummins, J. Hardy Kugler, and Charles Stow, all of New York.
Annie Oakley won the second event in the third annual live bird handicap given by the Cresson Gun Club, at Altoona, Pa., on March 17.
A new aspirant for honors in the line of sensational bicycle performances has appeared in the person of "The Great Joseph's Diavolo," who claims to have originated the 'cycle act commonly known at "Loop-the-Loop," and who is now perfecting his new and more daring exhibition, called "Flip-the-Flap." Up to a short time ago this performer was in Bellevue Hospital, undergoing treatment for injuries received at Madison Square Garden on Sept. 7, 1902, during a trial exhibition. The Great Joseph Diavolo is under the management of W. W. Power.
New York Clipper, April 19, 1902, p. 178. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Campbell Bros.' Monster R. R. Shows. Season of 1902 will be bigger and better than ever, and we will have twenty cars, all new, three Pullman sleeping cars, one, the Fairbury, will be fitted up with state rooms, for the Campbell Bros.; one dining car, four stock cars, nine flats, two advance cars. Al. Campbell, general manager in advance of the show, with fifty bill posters, programmers and assistant agents; Doc Campbell, general manager with the show; John Campbell, treasurer; Lee Greer, equestrian director; Ed. Campbell, business manager; Fred Hatfield, press representative; three bands and steam calliope in parade, two white bands and one colored. Everything this year in parade will be red and gold. . . . We have received a very large contingent of animals from Hagenbeck, all safely housed in our winter quarters in Campbell Town. The feature of the menagerie this season will be ___, the big hippopotomus. Canvas all new . . . [Note: much unreadable text, indicated by . . .]
Notes from the Mighty Haag Shows. We opened the season at ___, La., March _, and business has been far above expectations, with not one losing date. The show is three times larger than last season, with all new canvs and a glittering half mile parade of open dens, cages and three bands. Frank McGuyre, former business manager of Van Vranklen's Trained Animal Shows, has charge of the tickets with the Mighty Haag Shows.
The Sam Dock Shows have been enlarged for the coming season, and many new features will be seen in ring and parade. Prof. John Shearer's band will furnish the music. Harry Jarrelle, juggler and contortionist, has lately signed . . .
Notes from Rice, Cooper & O'Brien Shows, United. Everyone around our winter quarters is actively engaged and hustling to complete their work in the various departments of the show. Geo. Wood, boss canvas man, and his corps of assistants have about complete their work, and will be ready for the opening in good time. We have a 100ft. round top, and two __ft. middle pieces, and travel in our own cars, three in number. Everything will be new and up to date. Phil. Harris, our general contracting agent, and his assistants have left here. We play Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York and New Jersey. The following is our roster: D. H. Rice Jr., Shields, ___ and Hall, Sprosser Bros., ___ and Mark Grant, Chas. Flowers, Grant Carey, John Harkenson, Geo. Brooks, Kent More, Wallace Sisters, Jas. E. Ebersole, bandmaster; H. J. Adams, Ed. Smouse, H. Dixon, W. Wells, Harry Frantz, Ross Kelchner, Geo. Miller, ?. McGraw, Jos. Carmody, Vern ___. We open in Connellsville, Pa., April 26.
Notes from the Dave W. Perrine Shows. We open our tenth season at Eaton Rapids, Mich., on April 26. The outfit is all new and consists of a big top, 70ft., with 40ft. middle piece; dressing top 32x42; kid top ___; two horse tents, 40ft. in length, twelve head of ring stock, thirty head of work horses, sixteen wagons and thirty people. The show will carry a band and a piano wagon. Dave W. Perrine, sole owner and manager; Grace Perrine, treasurer; M. W. Prosser, manager kid show. The advance consists of one large two horse wagon. A. W. McKinney, general agent; E. R. McKinney, with skirmish wagon; H. K. Clark, bill poster; A. J. ___, lithos and programmes.
The Sig. Sautelle New Big Railroad Show has the following people for the coming season: Sig. Sautelle, owner; Frank A. Robbins, general manager; Dave Haley, contracting agent; H. H. Sylvester, advertising agent; Burt K. Willser, superintendent advertising car No. 1; J. Jenkins, superintendent advertising car No. 2; Chas. Ewers, equestrian director; Mrs. Chas. Ewers, the Three Valentines, Chas. Watson . . . Nebraska Bill, Kansas Kid, Leaping Fawn, circus performers. Annex, Dr. J. E. Ogden, manager; ___ Salvail and wife, James Gleason, Alvora, Tennessee Jubilee Singers, Sid Sedroe. Concert: Belle Mornson, Joe Mack and wife, ___, Alva Emerson, and ___, troupe of cake walkers, etc. Jno. Kent, master of transportation; Frenchy Haley, master of canvas; Frank Smith, superintendent of horses.
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Shows. The herd of smallest Shetland ponies belonging to the show have now a nice grassy lawn of ten acres to graze upon, and are looking fine. There will be enough material for two shows. If arrangements can be completed within the next two weeks, one pavilion show will be on its way South, the other will be routed North. The tents will be all new from flag staffs to guy ropes. Wagons have been building and old ones repaired to look like new. Ollie ___, Fay Dill, Eugene Cole, Henry Dugan, James J. Fowler and Adam Hines have signed. Bessie Templeton will sing illustrated songs and do a beautiful dance. Olive Orton has signed for concert turns.
The Great Joseph Diavolo, in his new feature act, "Flip the Flap," has been signed by Walter L. Main for the Big Fashion Plate Show.
Bud Horn, "The Calliope King," will be a feature of the parade in Campbell Bros.' Great Consolidated Shows during the season. He will also have the inside tickets.
New York Clipper, April 26, 1902, pp. 192, 201. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Spring notes from Capt. W. D. Ament's Big City Show. This popular show will open its fourteenth season at Elgin, Ill., May 5, with an entirely new canvas, playing week stands only in the big manufacturing towns. There will be a complete change in the style and nature of the show, all the ponies and circus ring acts being done away with, and a strictly up to date vaudeville show being given. . . .
Lew Franklin's Royal 10c Show will open early in May, near Cedar Rapids, Ia., and will carry about thirty-five people, touring the Western states. The performance will be first class, and will be an up to date circus entertainment, with the exception of riding acts.
The advance department of Gentry Bros.' Famous Shows United, No. 2, worked under many difficulties in billing the surrounding country of Macon and Meridian, Miss., during the recent storm that swept over that part of the state, and which destroyed both country and railroad bridges and every possible means of traffic. The advance department is under the personal direction of J. D. Newman, general agent. Roster of advertising car No. 1: Jno. L. Glennan, contracting agent; W. C. St. Clair, manager of car, with nine assistants; Albert Ball, boss bill poster; ___ stone, J. W. Watkins, H. B. Tinch, A. P. Pannell, Fatty Bramwell, W. Rice, C. M. Dunn, and John H. Phillips, programmer, four days ahead of date of show.
Cummins' Indian Congress and Wildest West has been incorporated under the laws of New Jersey, with a fully paid and non-assessable capital stock of $1,000,000. Its prospectus announces that it "proposes to organize a Congress of Indians and Wildest West features on the same general lines as those exhibited at the Omaha and Pan-American Exposition, but on a much grander and more complete scale, making it pre-eminently historical, ethnological, spectacular, instructive and entertaining, making it an aboriginal aggregation of not less than forty-two tribes, each commanded by a famous warrior chief."
T. H. Ford has signed with Buckskin Bill's Wild West for the season.
Notes from the Lucky Bill Show. Carpenters and painters are almost finished, and the show will be in shape to take the road April 28. This season's attractions will be the strongest we have ever had. Roster: Lucky Bill, sole owner; William Newton, manager; Henry Newton, master of transportation; J. J. Van Housen, equestrian director; Ed. White, advance, with four assistants; The Erwings, aerialists and high wire; the Maya, traps and webs; Savage and Beaver, acrobats; Clyde Williams, flying traps; the Bonhommes, musical act; Martin and Davenport, in a comedy sketch; Will ___, boss canvas man, with fifteen assistants. The show will carry eighty-three head of stock. Main top, __ft., with three 20ft. middle pieces; kid show __ft., with one 20ft. cook tent; horse and blacksmith tents to be __ft. round tops. We will carry a band of twenty-two pieces, under the leadership of F. Knoles. The menagerie has four open dens added to it this season. Lucky Bill has just purchased two buffaloes from the Buffalo farm at Alma, Wis. . . .
Notes from the Walter L. Main Show. The Fashion Plate Shows will take to the road this season, larger and grander than ever before. The spread of canvas from big top to cook house is entirely new. Our parade will include five bands of music, one drum corps, chimes, bagpipes, calliope, jubilee singers and a rube band in line. Forty-eight cars, independent of the advance, will be needed to transport this aggregation, and every car from the "Guv'nor's" private sleeper to the flat cars will be sixty feet in length. The show will be run over the road in three sections, two when possible, this year, and every possible attention has been given to the care of the employees from the executive staff to the pony boys. In the stable the ring stock and draft horses, including ponies, number three hundred and forty-eigh head of stock. The draft horses have ___ all on Mr. Main's stock farm at Trumbull, Ashtabula Co., and are in the pink of perfection, and the same can be said of the ring stock. The animals in the menagerie are in excellent condition. A feature in the menagerie this season will be a working den of lions and lambs, put through an exhibition by a twelve year old child. The herd of elephants has been broken to do many new acts, and as a whole the trained animal exhibition, with wild and domestic animals, will prove a feature. Prof. Carl ___, of the Royal Conservatory of Music, Savannah, Ga., will direct the large band of thirty-eight soloists. Prof. Carl will also give special concerts afternoon and evening, just prior to each performance. The official roster follows: Walter L. Main, sole owner. Executive staff - "Dan" Fitzgerald, manager; Col. Hugh Harrison, manager of privileges; William W. Powers, adjuster; Owen W. Doud, treasurer; Don McKenzie, auditor; E. K. ___, book keeper; John D. Carey, press representative; Howard Damon, purchasing agent; George Corcoran, twenty-four hour man; Harry Anderson, assistant superintendent. Door tenders: Frank Butler, J. F. Harlin and A. B. Waring, A. Moreland, ___. Advance staff: Ed. C. Knupp, general agent; I. V. Strebig, railroad contractor and excursion agent; W. T. Murphy and C. H. Westfall, local contractors; John E. Boyle, contracting press agnet; J. ___, manager car No.1, with twenty men; George Beckley, manager coar No. 2, with eighteen men; ___, manager car No. 3, with six men. Fred J. Bates, manager of opposition brigade, with five men; ___, official programme. Performers: Prof. R. H. Dockrill, equestrian director; ___ Family (seven), acrobats and statues; the Four Britons, 'cycle whirl; Martell Family (five), bicyclists; Three Fortune Brothers, comedy horizontal bars; ___, aerialists; Four Silvinis, acrobats; Four Alvos, aerial bars; Mons. De Van and wife, bareback riders; Minnie Fisher and brother, iron jaw and human top act; James Burke and wife, aerialists; Judge Brothers, ladder act; W. F. Melrose, somersault rider; the Misses Hilliard, four horse and double carrying act; Francis Reed and wife, bareback riders; Olga Reed, equestrienne; Fenner and La Nell, high divers; ?. Van Cleve, high school of jumping horses; the Savoys, acrobats; the ___, Mons. Busch, contortionist; James Deer, wife and daughter, Indian riders; Three Whirling Wheelers, bicyclists; Mlle. Turnour, trapeze act; Sidney Shepard, clown, with performing goats; R. H. Armstrong, high diver; Harry Clark and boy, Sam Nelson, Arthur Borelly, Stanley Brothers, William Hart, Ed. ___, Max Hugo, E. J. Kelly and Frank Maynard, clowns; Jack Daly, rube and tramps; Delmont, comedy skating; Mary Abrams, mistress of the wardrobe. Working and mechanical department: Dan Taylor, master of transportation; John Purcell, superintendent of canvas, with James Whalen and Jack ___, assistants; William H. Winner, superintendent of menagerie; Ernie Houghton, superintendent of stock; Fred Marshall, master of properties. Among the interesting events which will be introduced on the hippodrome track will be a Philippine bull race, in which the native carts and drivers will be used.
Chas. O. Morrison, contortionist, gymnast and clown, has signed with the Great Pan-American Show. This will be his third season.
Notes from Barlow's Wagon Show. Our opening date has been postponed on account of cool weather, for one week. We open May 3, at Tower, O. Our show has been enlarged somewhat, and we added a fine ___ wagon, which is complete. Our ponies, dogs and monkeys are doing a nice turn. This has been the busiest year about winter quarters in the history of the show. People booked are: George Wymann, contracting agent (fifth season); Arthur Howe, Frank Decker, Claud Miller, Newman Deal; ___ Sisters and Barlow Sisters will occupy dressing room; William Lith, orchestra leader. . . . Ella M. Barker, treasurer; Ed. C. Barlow, manager; Emma Barlow, manager of privileges; ___ Barlow, assistant manager.
Frank Oakley, professionally known as "Slivers," a clown connected with the Forepaugh-Sells Circus, and Nellie Dunbar, of the Dunbar Sisters, were married April __, at the Christian Church, New York City, the Rev. Mr. Haas officiating.
Turner and Hall, the acrobatic jockeys, write: "We have signed with Rice, Cooper & O'Brien Show for the coming season, and will be prominently featured. The roster of the said show had us billed by mistake as Goldie, instead of Turner."
D. C. Laughlin, professionally known as Dave Castello, bareback equestrian, leaper and tumbler, who is now retired and in business in Henderson, N.C., while returning to Charleston Exposition met with an accident at Hamlet, N.C., on Saturday, April 12, which resulted in the loss of his right leg below the knee, also the great toe and two last toes of his left foot. He was thrown under the cars by the sudden starting of the engine as he was about to board the train. He is now in a fair way of surviving his injuries. Mr. Laughlin was a brother of the Castello Bros., aerial bars, leapers and tumblers, two of whom were killed with Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus, and a third died from the result of accident sustained while with the same show.
The Great Pan American Show and European Menagerie advance car No. 1 is made up of the following people: Chas. Ellis, manager . . . The car left Tacoma, Wash. on April __ for the road.
Peter S. McNally, the well known long distance swimmer and life saver, is the press representative with the Forepaugh-Sells Circus. . . .
Welsh Bros.' opening notes. The 1902 season of Welsh Bros.' Newest Great Show was opened in a blaze of glory on Saturday afternoon, April 12, at Lancaster, Pa. Cool weather prevailed all day, but despite this atmospheric drawback enormous crods were in attendance at both afternoon and evening exhibitions. The performances, both in the side show and the "big show," are of a standard and high class character. There are twenty-one displays in the circus programee, in which thirty-six acts are exploited. The features that commanded the most attention, and were the recipients of much applause were the "big horse" act, in which 61 horses are handled by Prof. John White; the aerial work by Frederick Welcome and Pearl Forepaugh; the musial exposition of the Great Marinella; the acrobatic exploit of the La Rue Bros. Troupe; the tandem teams of meange and cake walking horses handled by Mannie Forepaugh; Marvelous Sylvester, in a sensational aerial contortion exhibit, and the Kitamura Royal Imperial Japanese Troupe in a series of novelty Oriental acts. Besides these displays, numerous clown entrees, leaping contests, equestrian acts, etc. are introduced. The clown contingent is had by Billy La Rue, Harry F. West, Bobby De Rue, George Colby and "Rube" Adams. Altogether the performance as arranged for this season is the best ever presented by the Messrs. Welsh, and should give eminent satisfaction to the most exacting audience. The band an orchestra includes twenty men, conducted by H. H. Whittier, and is composed of all skilled musicians. The annex and side show is under the management of Prof. Victor Hugo. A mammoth new front of "double deck" paintings and surrounds this department and presents a most inviting appearance. Fifteen platforms are distributed throughout the canvas, on which many new ideas in museum and vaudeville features are presented. Mr. Hugo is to be congratulated upon the manner in which he has arranged his show. Business in the annex on the opening day was of the land office order. The fifteenth season start in with every prospect of being as great a success as has been the tours of the "Newest Great" in the past. A complete roster of the show will be published later.
The Berkell Show, which opens at Neola, Ia., on May _, has now three excellent cars, having just closed a lease for the season of a beautifully fitted Pullman from Cameron Brown, of Belleville, Can.
New York Clipper, May 3, 1902, pp. 214, 217. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
R. Z. Orton writes: "I am not enlarging my show any, and it will be about the same as last year. We intend making the route we made two years ago, in northeastern Iowa. I have been very busy this winter fitting up our winter quarters, so that we would be comfortable. As soon as the frost went out of the ground, I commenced the foundation for a brick addition to the family residence of three more rooms, which will be completed in about a month. We will move out about June 1."
Fred Mayfield will have charge of the candy stands for W. J. Doris, with the Buckskin Bill Show. Mrs. William J. Doris, with her little daughter, Ethel, and her niece, arrived at the winter quarters of the Buckskin Bill Wild West Show on April 15, from New York City.
Notes from King E. Ziemer's R. R. Shows. This show opened to a turnaway house, after a hard fight with the wind, which pulled down the tent on the opening. The following people are with this show: Beall, Wagner Family, cannon ball jugglers and ring experts; W. Bernell, in contortion; W. Lenhard, in traps and wire; J. Wagner, clown parts. Higgins leads the band of seven pieces and drums.
Notes from the Darling & De Onzo Brothers' Consolidated Railroad Shows. Season of 1902 will be larger and better than ever, as two shows have consolidated. Fred Darling, of dog and pony fame, and William De Onzo, with his famous troupe of ___, will form an exceptionally strong combination. Everyone around our winter quarters is actively engaged and hustling to complete his work in the various departments of the show. Painters, carpenters, blacksmiths and ___ are busy . . . [opening May 8]. The following is our roster: Messrs Darling and De Onzo Brothers, sole proprietors and managers; M. Williams, director general in advance, with six assistants; J. M. Traber, treasurer and business manager; main door keeper, James ___; Fred Darling, equestrian director; ___, charge of ponies and dogs. One feature of the show will be the world renowned De Onzo Brothers, fancy trick barrel jumpers, whose act is well known in Europe as well as in America. It will be the first time that his ___ has worked in a circus ring, as the show has heretofore been able to pay them the salary that they desired until now, and a partnership had to be formed before they would work with the show.
Charles McBride will join the Tuttle Olympic Show at Linesville, Pa., on May 1, as musical director.
The Berkell Show notes. Everything is ready and we are waiting for the first sound of the whistle to start the ball rolling. It will take three cars to transport the show, one Pullman sleeper, ___, and one __ft. baggage car. . . . Canvas consists of menagerie top 60ft., main top, 80ft., with two __ft. dressing rooms, 30x40, twenty-five lengths of seats, and when we open the natives will say that nothing like it ever attempted to show at popular prices. The show opens May _. Performers engaged are: Prof. Chas. E. Rice, with his ponies, dogs, mules and monkeays; La Martine and ___, double trapeze, flying rings and clowns; Mlle. Dair, flying trapeze and cloud swing for outside attraction; Jerome and Edwards, acrobatic comediant; Frank O'Neill, principal clown; De Witt and Schnider, triple bars, revolvng ladder; the Two Geyers, acrobats and rolling globe; Prof. Rice, equestrian director; Leon Kline is engaged as one of the many features for our concert. J. W. ___, general agent; C. C. Matthews and Mrs. Rose Berkell will have charge of the door. The Berkell Show band has the following members, under the leadership of C. Parmley . . .
Notes from Chas. Lee's London Shows. Since arrangements were made for this show things have moved with great speed. The entire outfit is in excellent shape, and there is no doubt that it will be successful. The top is a 75ft. round top, with two 40ft. middle pieces. The entire top is seated with nine tiers of seats. . . . We carry only four head of stock, which is used for band wagon and transporting show from cars to lot. The wagon is a combination, which will be used for both purposes mentioned. Fine plush banners have been arranged to adorn the sides of band wagon, which give it a beautiful appearance on the street. We have two cars, sleeper and baggage, both nearly new, and fitted with all improvements. We will carry about forty people all told, and can boast of having some of the best talent in the business. The roster is as follows: Prof. J. W. Lee, owner and manager; Mrs. J. W. Lee, treasurer and ticket seller; L. E. Stitzman, advance agent. Bill posters: Harry Miller, Geo. ___ and W. Morrow. Big show: Geo. Wilson, boss canvas man, with ten assistants . . . Barlow and Wilson, double traps and bars; T. Madden, singing and talking clown; Harry Le Mar, slack wire and rings . . . The show will close with tumbling. The concert will be up to date, and we have three special people engaged, besides those who double from the big show . . .
Notes from the Great Sautelle (Dean Sautelle) Highest Class Shows, at winter quarters, Burlington, Vt. Cold weather is still with us. May 28 is the day set for the opening, and everything is ready for that event. Blacksmiths, harness makers, wheelwrights, painters and wood carvers have been for the past six months working night and day to get things ready. At this writing Mr. Sautelle can boast that he has the finest equipped wagon show on earth. The automobile in which Mr. Grant will travel over the routes has arived. The builders state that it is one of the finest and strongest that they have ever turned out. It is equipped with one seven horse power gasoline engine and boiler, and is guaranteed to travel ordinary country roads at the rate of forty miles per hour, and to climb hills at a twenty mile rate. In placing this automobile ahead of the show, Mr. Sautelle congratulates himself that he is the first to use a horseless carriage to herald the coming of a circus enterprise. Mr. Grant and the carriage will start en route May 1. The second brigade, under the management of Edwin Stone, with eight bill posters, will leave winter quarters May 8. The programme wagon will follow May 17, and the opposition wagons May 21. In the advance there will be twenty-three men, five agents, ten head of stock and one automobile, this making one of the finest and largest advance brigades ever placed ahead of a wagon show. We will use all special lithograph printing and every sheet is a master work. The business staff of the show is as follows: Dean Sautelle, sole proprietor; James Shipman, general manager; Mrs. Dean Sautelle, treasurer; Frank Grant, contracting agent; Erwin Stone, press agent and manager of advance brigade; Ed. Jamson, manager side show; Prof. ___, leader band no. 1; Prof. Ross, leader band no. 2; ___, leader Oriental music . . .
New York Clipper, May 10, 1902, pp. 239, 240, 251. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Roster of the opposition car of the Buckskin Bill Wild West Show: Geo. A. Florida, manager, with twelve assistatns; Happy Johnson, boss bill poster; Jerry Kellum, Theo. ___, Arthur Dow, Wilber Winn, E. O. Decker, Chas. Brown, Al. Moon, ___. Lithographers: Pete Dunn, Will St. Vincent, Ed. Le Mack, programmer.
Rays from Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows. This is our eleventh season, opened in Atlanta, Ga., on April 7, to a big business, as is usual with this show, although the farmers are far behind with their work. We are doing a very satisfactory business. The roster for season 1902 is as follows: Sun Bros., proprietors; Geo. Sun, manager; Pete Sun, advance representative; O. Steuer, treasurer; Wiley Ferris, equestrian director; Prof. Chas. Coons, band director; Prof. Jules Tona, museum manager; Geo. Christie, general superintendent; Cap. Leo Collins, boss canvas man; Uncle William Randolph, boss hostler; Ed. Kain, in charge of trained stock; Jack Benson, boss properties; John H. Staley, master of chandeliers; Sam Morris, steward, in charge of "Hotel De Sun"; E. H. Sherwood, night watch; John Malone, blacksmith; Will Bidding, harness maker; John Davenport, in charge of the Oriental dancing show, with real Turkish musicians; Princess Agasta, star dancer. A few of the features in the big show are the Melvin Bros., acrobats; Conley and West, triple horizontal bars and return act; Ferris and Trevannion, dancing barrel and table; Richards Bros., statuary; Wade Sisters, aerialists; Geo. Sun, toss juggler; Dan Lester, principal clown; Wiley Ferris Jr., seven year old singing clown; Baby Sun, four year old clown; Will Corbett, knockabout clown; Commodore, the rope walking mule; Black Jack, the famous talking horse; a troupe of educated ponies and troupe of performing dogs, which made up, with other acts, the strongest programme in the history of this show. The band is also the best the show has ever had, every member being able to play a solo. Bannella, a girl eleven years old, styled the living encyclopedia, also Madam Crawford, the mind reader, in the musuem department, are causing quite a sensation. Tana, the ventriloquist, is also a feature of the annex. The Big Show, as well as the concert museum and Oriental shows, are all doing their share of good business. It requires ninety head of stock and one hundred and twenty-five people to keep things moving. Lynch and Morris control the candy privileges. We are at present touring Alabama.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's World's Grandest Railroad Shows. This season will find the Sautelle Show grander and better than ever. There will be eighteen cars to transport the aggregation, and the spread of canvas will be new from the big top to the cook tent. Our parade will have three bands of music, one large organ and a calliope, together with a company of jubilee singers. All the cars, from the governors to the flats, are decorated in fine shape. The ring stock and draught horses have been brought in from Mr. Sautelle's farm, and are looking fine. There are twenty-eight cages of animals in the menagerie, six elephants, four camels and a host of hay animals. The feature of the menagerie is the den of performing lions, trained and handled by Nettie Huftle. The elephants are being trained daily to do some clever work. The roster is: Sig. Sautelle, proprietor; Frank A. Robbins, manager; Dave Haley, contracting agent; Burt Wilber, manager advertising car 1, with fifteen men; J. G. Jenkins, manager car 2, with ten men; H. H. Sylvester, programme solicitor; Chas. Ewets, equestrian director; Prof. Yannetti and his concert band of twelve men, the Three Valentines, in the flying act and bounding wire; the Three Adams, acrobats and bar performers; Charles Jackson, contortionist; Prof. Drake's troupe of performing sheep, and J. B. Gaynor, juggler; Chas. Ewers and wife, bareback riders and carrying act; Chas. Watson, hurdle act; Four Harrisons, acrobats; the Shannons, aerialists; Mart Goodwin and Alex Normiana, singing and talking clowns; Wallace Jackman, baton spinner and juggler; Fred La Vine, ladder act; Mrs. Sig. Sautelle, Mrs. Frank Robbins, Mrs. A. L. Salvail, Mrs. Dan Traver, Mrs. John Huftie, Mrs. Chas. Ewers, Mrs. Draka, and Mrs. Wm. McDonald. The annex includes: Dr. John E. Ogden, manager; A. L. Salvail and wife; Anthony, the strong man; Nebraska Bill, Leaping Fawn, John Brill's troupe of jubilee singers, and Mlle. Laflora's troupe of dancing girls. Our concert includes: Tommie Nichols, Butt Morrison, Sadie Hart, the Macks, Mabel Drew, Nettie Rivers, Jack Hoffman, Wm. McDonald's troupe of rough riders, Arkansas Kid, Nebraska Bill, Texas Harry, Wyoming Kid, Frank Robbins Jr., Penny Arcade, Wm. Badger, A. C. Donters and Ed. Hinton. John Kent, master of transportation; Frenchy Haley, master of canvas; Frank Smith, superintendent of stock; Red Burnett, superintendent of menagerie; Pete Sexton, superintendent sleepers; John Huftie and Dan Traver, tickets; Robert Scott, blacksmith. The show opens at Homer, N.Y., May 2.
Roster of advertising car No. 1, Ringling Bros.' World's Greatest Shows: The car has twenty-two union bill posters and biller and programmers. No one but union bill posters and lithographers are on this car, and they are members of St. Louis Local No. ___. A. G. Ringling, car managers; W. H. Hoskins, boss bill poster; assistants - Frnk Estes, Geo. Tinkham, E. F. Bluski, B. F. Dechane, Robt. Frye, T. C. Boylan, Wm. Hauter, Sam ___, C. G. Snowhill, Fred Cox, Wm. Delty, Bert Wheeler, James Miller, Orin Stevens, Bert Hamner, J. F. Cavanagh, Jas. Dahlen, boss biller; Wm. Cain, F. A. Tolver, billers; A. H. Johnson, programmer. This we claim is the first union "ad" car in the world.
Geo. A. Florida has been engaged by Harry W. Semon to manage the opposition advance car with the Buckskin Bill Wild West Show.
Notes from the Darling & De Onzo Brothers Circus. The following is the revised roster for this season: Messrs. Darling & De Onzo, sole proprietors and mangers; M. R. Williams, director general in advance, with four assistants; John Allig, lithographer; Harry Williams, programmer; Florence Bowen, master of privileges; J. M. Traber, treasurer and business manager; James Mood, main door tender; Wm. H. Deane, charge of ponies and dogs; William De Onzo, equestrian director; Prof. E. S. Day, leader of band, with the following musicians: Amos Rigdon, Joe Berry Jr., Sistek Brothers, Jim De Bosha, Warren Long, Wilbur Long, Harry Long, Will Woodville, Mat. Downey, Thos. A. Robbins. The following performers will assist the wonderful De Onzo Brothers, the fancy trick barrel jumpers, who will be featured; "Neola," the juggler; the Le Monts, May and Bert, swinging wire acrobatic act, knockabout clown; Rose Nella, Cuban acrobat, single trapezes and swinging perch; Martino, great slack wire and balancing trapeze; Rawls, contortinist, and last, but not least, "Rastus," great Africo-American cake walker and clown, the only negro clown in the arena today. The show opens May 8, and plays three days at Hamilton, O. This is William H. De Onzo's home, and he counts his friends legion here. . . . The company will travel in our own cars, which have just been repainted and refurnished. We will make one and three day stands, and hope to take down some of the good money which undoubtedly awaits this famous aggreation of acrobatic wonders.
Notes from Irwin Bros. Show. A few of the features with Irwin Bros.' Show this season will be: Jas. Leo, Irwin's spiral globe act, Chas. Dolby's high diving, leaping and somersault dogs, James Irwin's head balancing trapeze and unsupported ladder, and Dora Irwin's lofty feats of dental strength.
H. R. Moore is special agent for Campbell Brothers' Shows for 1902.
Roster of advertising car no. 3, Ringling Bros.' Show: Geo. Goodhart, manager; John Hartman, in charge of paper; Henry Garn and Chas. Sellers, banner men; Chas. Bostwick, Miles Edwards, lithographers; Foster McLeod, J. P. Mezger, lithograph boards; John Stoll, Chas. Robinson, programmers; Thos. Goodhart, Henry Mahler, Chas. Betts, E. W. Chase, Dare Condon, Ed. Wahnsidler, C. A. Swanson, Chas. Mikesell, Chas. Mahan, bill posters. At St. Louis all the men on the car joined the Bill Posters and Billers' Union. The entire advance with this show are now union men. Ringling Bros.' requested them to join.
Notes from the Rice, Cooper & O'Brien Shows. We opened to big business at Connellsville, Pa., evening of April 26. On account of the high winds, there was no afternoon performance. George E. Cochran, the millionaire coal operator of Dawson, Pa., has purchased a half interest in the show, and same will be greatly enlarged. Messrs. Febr & Cochran purpose making making this the largest one ring show traveling today, if money and brains can do it.
Seventeen head of buffalo from Cochrane, Wis., which comprised the entire herd of the Huber Bros., of that place, were purchased by G. W. Lilie, "Pawnee Bill," and are en route to his ranch at Pawnee, O. T. The herd originally contained 20 head, three having been sent to Pawnee Bill at Philadelphia for show purposes. The 17 will serve to stock his ranch in Oklahoma, the Pawnee herd now consisting of 40 head.
New York Clipper, May 17, 1902, p. 267. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Roster of Lee Bros.' R. R. Shows. Executive staff: Ralph Pinkham, contracting agent, four assistants; A. Frank Monroe, treasurer and ticket agent; Stephen O. Pinkham, advertising agent and press. Performers: Tony White, equestrian director; Madame White's high school, trick and menage horses; Tony White's trick donkeys and high stilts; James Hart, somersault ladder act; Mr. and Mrs. Fred Newell, aerialist and trick house; Jeannette Bros., two brother act and double trapeze; Prof. A. J. Park's school of educated canines; Patterson Bros., horizontal bars and carrying perch act; Mueller Sisters, flying ring experts an concert; Everett Kempton and Arthur Fox, singing and knockabout clowns; band of ten pieces, under the leadership of Tony Jeannette; W. F. Parker, superintendent of canvas; Chas. Hambly, boss hostler; Johnnie Hughes, in charge of stock; Chas. Bligh, steward; Lee Bros., sole owners and managers. We open the season May 8, and travel by rail.
R. F. Scobell and wife (Bernice Bernard) have signed with Walter L. Main's Big Fashion Plate Shows for the season.
Advance car no. 2 of the Great Pan-American Show, left Tacoma, Wash., April 18 for the road, with the following people: J. Catheart, manager; A. W. Jackson, in charge of paper; Ed. Clark, lithographer and U. C. Webb, W. H. Joyce, H. Lewis and C. Brown, bill posters.
Lil Kerslake, with his pig circus, has joined the Great Wallace Show, his third season with that aggregation. He writes: "The act is stronger and better than ever and a laugh from beginning to end. The papers agreee that is is one of the solid successes of the show. Our opening was bad, as we lost the afternoon show and gave no parade at Peru, Ind., but have turned people away ever since in every town played."
Harry J. Bryan has joined Frank H. Seery's Railroad Circus as contracting agent.
Notes from King Ziemer's Royal American Shows. Business is up to our expectations, and everything works as though made to order. New additions are: Collier and Collier, ___ Delmore, Orra and Masella, and Aztier. Our band now consists of fourteen pieces, and just fills our beautiful band wagon, "The White Swan." We all visited the Great Ringling Shows, and can't praise them too highly. The weather is gran, and we look to a prosperous season.
Mabel Hockney, one of the feminine rough riders of the Buffalo Bill Wild West Show, in Brooklyn, narrowly escaped death at the afternoon performance on May 8, by being thrown from her horse in a race with three other women. She was so badly hurt that she will probably be incapacitated for some time.
Tom Tom, the baby elephant with the Lockhart troupe, died on April 27 at Convention Hall, Kansas City.
New York Clipper, May 24, 1902, pp. 289, 296. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Walter L. Main Show notes. When a circus averages four turn away nights in a week there is no chance for an argument as to the business it is doing. That is just what the Walter L. Main Fashion Plate Show has been doing ever since the inauguration of the present season. That this is phenomenal, in the face of opposition and inclement weather, all showmen will admit. Those who are acquainted with Mr. Main known that he is not given to divulging the secrets of his ledger, but he has admitted that the business thus far this year has been heavier than any for the same length of time during his experience as a showman. Opposition does not in the least interfere with the drawing power of the Fashion Plate Show, and the best part of it is that the best advertising the show receies is from its own performances. The afternoon house always advertises the night houses. Wheeling, W. Va., was cut out after giving the street parade, as the lot was inundated, and it would have been impossible to have given a performance that would have done justice to the circus. Rather than admit the people to an inferior entertainment, Mr. Main decided to give no show. His action was heartily endorsed by the Wheeling papers and the leading citizens of the city, who tried to wring from him a promise to return at an early date. While in Cleveland Mr. Main presented to the Wade Park Zoo of that city a large male Sanborn deer. The presentation speech was made by Col. Harrison, and accepted by the city in a few words from "Jake" Mintz. The deer was later shipped to the Zoo, where it is much admired. Saturday of the week before last was visiting day between the Main Show and the Sells-Forepaugh Show. Many took advantage of it. Everyone around the show is enjoying the best of health and are in good spirits. Robie's Knickerbockers were among the recent visitors.
Berkell Show notes. We opened at Neola, Ia., May 3, on time, and packed them to the ring bank. The weather the past week has been bad, but we have held our own, and wherever the Berkell Show appears they say, "We did not expect anything like it." Our band is making a big success everywhere, with C. O. Parmley as conductor. The Geyers, with their running globe and acrobatic act, make them talk. Prof. Chas. E. Rice, with his dogs, ponies, mules and monkeys, is proving a drawing card. Mlle. Dair is winning applause in her single trapeze, and brings the people in the lot with her wonderful cloud swing. We showed Guthrie Centre, Ia., and found the Raes quarantined on account of smallpox, but getting along alright. We had a pleasant visit from Mr. Buchanan, of the Buchanan Show, while at Valley Junction, and we surprised him with our outfit, parade, show and all. It takes four cars to transport the show. Frank O'Neill, George Kates and Sam Kates, our three funny clowns, win great laughter. Our concert is making a big success, with the following: Jessie Matthews, Frank O'Neill, Lena Kline, Rags, the diving dog, and the Berkells. J. W. Maher is general agent.
Roster of the Great Wallace Show advertising car No. 2: Al Osborn, manager; D. Jarrett, boss bill poster; W. Scott, lithographer; E. Eisfeldt, W. Hadison, banners; J. Cora, A. Brown, programmers; H. Anderson, paste maker; Geo. Eddy, car porter. Bill posters: F. Rossman, L. Taylor, G. Spitler, W. A. Hoover, J. J. Hester, W. Jackson, A. F. Lones, D. Malone, T. Conrad, A. Choffin, R. P. Manifee, J. Gillman, W. Hemphill, J. Powell.
Notes from Gus Sun's R. R. Shows. The Gus Sun Railroad Show will open its third annual tour May 30 at Rawlins, Wyo. The shows will consist of five cars and about 100 people, and will tour the Northwest, returning from the Pacific coast through Canada, probably closing about Sept. 30, at St. Paul, Minn.
Melnotte, La Nole and Melnotte are meeting with big success in their triple wire act with the John Robinson Show, with which they are a leading feature.
Notes from F. H. Seery's R. R. Circus. We carry three flats, one baggage car and one Pullman sleeper. The show opened at Canton, O., to big business, touring southern Ohio and Indiana. We play under an 80ft. top, with two 40ft. middle pieces. Roster: F. H. Seery, manager; Frank Crowl, business manager; J. C. Sully, equestrian director; Gerald F. Adams, principal clown and street "rube"; Close and Laselle, contortionists; the Two Stalls, double trapeze; the Four Hills, acrobats; Nelly Norton, single trapeze; Mrs. Stall, revolving globe; Clarence Lavern, knockabout clown; Nip and Tuck, twisting loop; Anna St. Clair, flying rings; Hill and McPhee, triple bars; Yaust Bros., revolving ladder act; John Seery, flying perch; Remlet Bros., return act. The band numbers ten pieces, under the direction of Prof. A. Reed. The concert, under the management of J. C. Sully, is scoring a success everywhere.
King E. Ziemer's Royal American Show notes. We have added a troupe of dogs and two great Danes to the show. Everybody is well. Joe Webb is our advance agent. Our business has been good from our opening day. We get the Old Reliable every Friday, salary every Saturday, and the best to eat on Sunday.
Notes from the Great Barlow Show. The show opened May 3, at South Milford, Ind., to a packed tent, and we are playing to first class business. The show will tour Indiana and Ohio. Mr. Barlow has spared no pains to make his show one of the best wagon shows on the road this season. Roster: Ed. P. Barlow, sole owner and manager; Ella Barlow, treasurer; Geo. H. Wyman, advance agent; William Lytle, Ed. S. McDonald, Etta Lease, Claude Miller, balancing traps; Arthur Hawe, cannon ball juggler and light and heavy balancing; Frank Decker, clown acrobat; Lease Sisters, vocalists; Tommy Snyder, swinging perch; Barlow Sisters, statuary act, and Howe, Decker and Miller, ring act. The dogs, ponies and monkeys are doing a fine act.
Leon Washburn's Circus was forced to temporarily disband at Somerville, N.J., last week, because of the illness of the performers and canvas men, who were stricken with symptoms of arsenical poisoning. Proprietor Washburn believed his people were poisoned by drinking water at Morristown, N.J., which was carried to the circus by boys who dipped it from a stream said to contain dye from a woolen mill. the animals refused to drink this water, and escapted the poisoning. Mr. Washburn will attempt to reorganize shortly.
Gertie Spahr, better known as Gertie Plath, the fat lady, has retired from the show business, and is making her home with her son, Chas. Spahr, in Milwaukee, Wis.
Notes from De Vere's Mastodon Shows. We opened on May 10, at Springwater, N.Y., and packed them in to the ring bank, and, considering the cold nights, we have done big business. Roster: Frank S. De Vere, proprietor and manager; Mrs. Flossie De Vere, treasurer; Jack Mahoney, in charge of advance; Harry Dimmick, boss canvas man, with eight assistants; Val Arman, boss hostler; Harry McGraw, leader of band; R. C. Stollker, boss property man, with two assistnats. Performers: F. S. De Vere, balancing traps, horizontal bars; Judd Norwood, equestrian director; Geo. W. O'Dole, balancing ladder and principal clown; Irving Probasco, comedy juggler; Frank Balcom, contortionist; Norwood and De Vere, triple bars; Willard H. Weber, aerial ballet; Four Dowron Bros., acrobats; Balcom and Norwood, revolving ladder; O'Dole and De Vere, comiques. Annex, in charge of E. C. Bond. Williard H. Weber, in charge of concert.
Notes from the Darling & De Onzo Brothers' Circus. We opened at Hamilton, O., on May 8, for three days. The opening night was a grand one. Two hundred and fifty Elks formed a line at the lodge room, and marched over to the circus grounds, headed by Prof. Wilbur Long's famous band, and after William De Onzo was ready to do his act Michael Burns, a well known lawyer, stepped forward and in a neat speech presented Mr. De Onzo with a beautiful diamond studded Elks' watch charm. The presentation completely took the recipient by surprise, but he responded and heartly thanked his brothers. The show has only been out two weeks, and business has been phenomenal. We have packed them to the ring bank. All the acts are good, and the concert is exceptionally strong. The Great Hindoo box mystery act is done by Bert Le Mont and wife. Treasurer Traber and managers Darling & De Onzo say that this show is doing better than any other show of its size now on the road.
Notes from the Skerbeck's Big One Ring Show. We opened the season at Manistique, Mich., on May 10, to a packed tent. The show has played four stands, and business has been much better than expected. The show this season is much larger and stronger than ever. Bert Robbins, of the team of Robbins and Childers, is unable to work on account of tonsilitis, but we hope he will be able to play again soon. We are traveling in our two private cars, which have been repainted and look like new. In Escanaba, Mich., we did the biggest business the show has ever known, tent jammed both afternoon and night.
A serious riot occurred at Besiers, France, on Sunday, May 11, when Barnum & Bailey's Circus was attacked by a crowd of would be patronsl, who, when unable to gain admisssion to the tents, began stoning the circus employees, five of whom were injured. One employee had his skull fractured, and will probably die. The crowd cut the tent ropes, and troops were finally called and drove the rioters away, the performance then proceeding.
Roster of Cap. Stewart's Big 10 and 20 Cent Shows. Cap. Stewart, proprietor and manager; Mrs. Cap. Stewart, treasurer; Joseph Wyatt, in charge of ticket wagon; Mrs. Nettie Magner, door tender; Ed. Magner, master of tents; John Weaver, master of horses; Bob Harris, master of stage; Byron Stewart, master of ring; Prof. Risley, master of band; Chas. McCarty, master of lights; Harris Murphy, master of orchestra; Chester Jackson, general agent. Performers: Byron Stewart, Bob Harris, Chas. McCarty, Kelly Jackson, Ed. Magner, Harris Murphy, John Grim, John Walters, Nettie Magner, Billy Blaine. Band: Prof. Risley, Joe Wyatt, Art Risly, Harry Risly, Chet Risley, Arm. Risley, John Weaver.
Notes from Buckley's Big Shows. We will open our season at Irwin, Pa., Friday, May 30. Will carry a 60ft. round top, with a 30ft. middle piece. The following is the complete roster: Milt. B. Buckley, sole proprietor and manager; Frank Breining, equestrian director; Harry Bowman, advance, with two bill posters; Flowers Bros., revolving ladder; Jack Troy's educated dogs and goats; Shields and Goldie, acrobats; Rob Hubberd, slack wire and traps; Frank La Vell, contortion; J. Warden, song and dance; Jessie Tuttle, contortion; Billy ___, contortion and acrobat; "Hay" Breining, talking and singing clown; H. Adams, juggler; Staley's educated horses; Prof. C. E. Valentine's military band; the following musicians: Leo Dechato, Alfred Roussau, J. W. Comstock, Henry Adams, J. Warden, Wm. Boyle, Geo.Cornet, Herm ___, Chas. Flowers, Geo. Bowman and Eugene Cartwright. We will carry 16 head of horses, and play through western Pennsylvania, making one and two days stands.
Notes from the Great Buffalo and Wild West Shows, consolidated. We are now crystalizing at our permanent quarters in Missoula, Mont. The opening date will be at Helena, July 4. This big amusement enterprise has the distinction of possessing a large herd of buffaloes; it has noted chiefs and warriors from ten famous tribes of Inidans, hundreds of Pinto ponies, Appoloosa and Arabian Horses, and a wealth of rare attractions never seen with any other tented show. Manager Geo. L. Hutchin has certainly gotten together a unique and money making enterprise.
New York Clipper, May 31, 1902, pp. 309, 313. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Lucky Bill's Show. Business is fine and in spite of inclement weather the tent is filled nightly. All enjoy a hearty laugh, and have a good word for Lucky Bill's Company of first class performers, including Willard and Willard, acrobats and jugglers; Bearer, Varnum and Ostman, trick cottage act; Tuscon's expert rifle shots; Little Blonde, child song and dance performer; Mrs. M. May, secretary and treasurer. Musicians: Mrs. M. May, William Newton Jr., Henry Newton, J. J. Van Housen, characters, with trained ponies and monkeys. Horses are used in hurdle racing by Arthur Runyan [Bunyan?], who is the leading attraction in the daily parade, which is headed by the only Lucky Bill.
Notes from Hall & Long's Big City Shows. We opened our season at Muncie, Ind., on April 23, and remained there four days, and despite opposition we packed them for three nights. Saturday, April __, the last day of our engagement at Muncie, a severe wind storm struck us, and slightly demolished our tent, but by hard work on the part of all, we had it ready for night. When just about to erect the tent again another hard blow came up, and we lost the night. Gentry Bros., who were across the lot from us, were unable to show, but the evening was spent very pleasantly by members of both companies. We experienced our second blow down at Decatur, Ind., May 6, when a heavy rain and wind storm razed us to the ground, broke guys, side poles, one centre pole, tore the top in several places, and shot the side wills in shreds, which caused us to lose that night. Since then things have been running nicely and business has been great. This is a two car show, a combination dining and sleeping car, and a baggage. We carry our own team and wagon to transport the show from the car to the lot and back again. The canvas is a seventy foot, with a thirty and forty foot middle piece dressing room top thirty feet. The complete roster: Hall & Long, proprietors and managers; Mrs. F. C. Hall, in charge of the dining car; R. McDaniels, advance agent, and two assistants; B. H. Killmar, equestrian director; H. Vanquette, contortion and lightning baton drill; Owen Albert, wire and perch; Dot Morgan, perch and traps; Fred Hall, balancing and juggling; Ernie Goyt, pyramid, traps and bars; Long and Killmar, bars and acrobats; Prof. Merle, troupe of twenty dogs and monkeys; Goyt and Morgan, double traps; "Bunky," musican clown. Our concert, which is one of the features of the show, is given with a moving picture machine and illustrated songs. The pictures are operated by F. C. Hall. The songs are sung by Jessie Hall, and never fail to please. Our band is udner the able directorship of Myron Frost, late of West's Minstrels. Roster of band: Myron Forst, Victor Welte, Jesse Teats, David Poland, Solon Bernard, Frank Long, Herbert Plank, Owen Albert, R. Garrett, Merle Trousdale, A. A. Craig, B. H. Killmar, ___ Crabill, Harry Motes. Jack Smith has charge of the canvas, with six men; John Laswell, in charge of chandeliers and props; Link Ball, in charge of baggage car; Chas. Bliss, porter of dining and sleeping car; Owen Albert has charge of the privileges. The show makes three day stands, and will make a long season South, remaining out until the holidays.
Notes from Campbell Bros.' Show. We are in our fourth week and have had no accidents. Everything is running smoothly, including the parade. Three bands and the new calliope furnish the music. Prof. Richard Betz is director of band no. 1, with eighteen men of his own choice; Geo. Wilison [Willson?] is director of band no. 2, and Charlie Clark's colored band furnish music for the side show. Everybody is well and happy. People are surprised to see the show, which they all remember when it consisted of two wagons and a troupe of trained dogs. Its rapid growth to its present large size is a matter of wonder.
Koster and Deveaux are doing nicely with the John Robinson 10 Big Shows.
Will Delavoye, after a season's rest at his Saratoga farm, is out again this season with Sells & Down's Circus. Nelson Fritz is with him, and they are producing their cottage act.
___ Lazore is with John Robinson's 10 Big Shows, doing his Oriental dance in the black top.
Notes from the Whitney Family Big One Ring Show. We closed our third week last Saturday at Deshler, O., with the record afternoon business, and in the evening the ticket wagon closed at 7:30, and hundreds were unable to secure even standing room. Every available seat in the big top was occupied and people were seated round the ring bank and stage. The show is running smoothly in all departments. Master Julian, the boy acrobatic wonder, wins nightly applause, and the rest of the features of the big show receive their share. Our band, under the direction of Prof. John S. Phillip, makes daily successes with their fine street concerts. We are about to add a fine museum layout, new top, banners, etc., which is expected on next week. This will give us one of the best equipped wagon shows now traveling. The ghost and the Old Reliable reach us every Sunday, and everybody is happy.
James A. Bailey is said to have visited Wilkesbarre, Pa., recently, with the intention of providing there winter quarters for the Barnum & Bailey Circus when the show returns to America.
Notes from Sells & Downs' United Shows. We are doing a tremendous business through Kentucky and Virginia, and are encountering beautiful weather. Everybody is enjoying the best of health and exceptional social privileges throughout the entire departments. Reason: the management has ___ for everybody's comfort.
The Great Onzos have joined the Sells & Downs Circus for the season, and are meeting with success.
New York Clipper, June 7, 1902, p. 333. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Dixon, Bowers & Dixon's Big Show notes. The show will open in Chicago on June 16, with everything new throughout. We will carry a 75ft. round top, with two 40ft. middle pieces; one 50ft. round top, with one 20ft. middle piece; dressing top, 25x45, all new. Through an ad in the Clipper, we have been able to secure the following people: Armstrong, Baker and Armstrong, Gertrude Norton and Annie Douglass, the daring bicycle riders, introducing B. F. Keith's original 'cycle whirl; the Five Smiletta, triple horizontal bar, double trapeze, dougle somersaults and pendulating rings; Anna Burt, balancing traps and high wire; Nellie Tuttle and her troupe of dogs, Mlle. Latina, in posturing and physical culture; Nick Otte, in a combination aerial act; ___, single traps and acrobatic clown; Prof. Lewis Archer, leader of band, with eleven soloists. The show will carry about thirty-five people, and travel by rail, using nothing but special printing. Dixon, Bowers & Dixon, managers; Joseph Hewitt, general contractor; John Harris, lithographer; Wylie Emerson, boss canvas man, with eight assistants.
Roster of advertising car no. 4, opposition car, Ringling Bros.', now at Duluth, Minn. - Wm. H. Horton, manager; Foster McLeod, E.W. Chase, O. Stevens, Wm. B. Hamner, Ed. Wahnseidler, ?. Mittendorf, F. Johnson, J. Dahrin, H. Kane.
Harry L. De Alvin has just joined the Howe Great London Circus for the balance of the season.
Ab. Johnson, principal clown of the John Robinson Circus, has produced an original clown number by combining the clown band and burlesque army. The number contains a parody, and a burlesque drill, and every clown in the entire show works in this act, which is said to be exceedingly humorous.
Wm. Dale, who has been with the New York Circus in the French West Indies, has returned to New York.
Marvelous Turner, "the flexible Australian," now en route with the Rice, Cooper & O'Brien Show, is still meeting with success. His new novel pedestal act is creating comment everywhere.
Notes from the Great Pan-American Shows. Harry S. Noyes and Eva Le Clair were married in Seattle, Wash., on April 21, by Judge Cann. They are both with the show. Mr. Noyes is side show orator, and his wife is snake charmer. Others in the annex are Prof. ___, magic and trained pigs; Philson, Punch and Judy; Joe ___, albino; Christy, hoop roller and juggler; La Belle ___ and troupe of Oriental dancers, four in number and three Turkish musicians. Bert Chipman, who had rheumatism very badly this Spring, is back in the harness again, handing out the tickets for the big show. He has been kept busy every day but one since we opened, and that was at Rawling, Wyo., where, on account of wind, we did not show at all. Business is big in all departments this season.
Ernst Albright has been with Buckskin Bill's Wild West since the opening, featuring his monologue in the concert and playing the calliope, "Liberty."
Roster of advance car No. 2, of Buffalo Bill's Wild West: E. V. ___, car manger; Wm. Shea, boss bill poster; Richard Lafever, assistant bill poster; Thos. Dransfield, excursions; Jas. F. Powers, boss biller; Frank W. Warren, banners; Chas. Venable, boards. Excursion men: Geo. Houghtaling, Wm. Goodwin, Geo. Ebeling, Jos. Costello, Abe Cohen. Bill posters: Roger Ryley, Harry Cook. Billers: Gilbert Greene, Chas. Coleman, Jos. Konnelly, A. B. Harms, W. H. Spencer, James Dee. J. W. Murphy, programmer; Wm. Lee chef; Jack Ludlam, waiter; M. J. Murphy, porter.
Notes from Barlow's Great Show. We are now in our fourth week, and in spite of cold weather the show has done a fair business. May 31 we put aside our show work and attended the World's Greatest Ringling Bros.' at Fort Wayne, Ind. Our dressing tent is occupied by Arthur Howe, Frank Decker, Claud Miller and Tommy Linder, Barlow Sisters, and Mrs. Etta ___. Orchestra: Will Little, Ed. McDonald, Carl Goder; charge of horses, Rube Ruparts; Ella Barlow, treasurer; Edna Barlow, assistant treasurer; Erma Barlow, manager of privileges; Ed. P. Barlow, manager; Geo. H. Wymann, contracting agent. The show will remain in Ohio all season.
Notes from King E. Ziemer's Royal American Shows. We are doing a fair business, playing three or four night stands. We still have the following people: Beall Family, cannon ball jugglers and heavy lifters; Wagner, clown and traps; the Ziemers, in their knife and battle axe throwing; Vernell, in contortion and rings; Bowker and Allen, clowns and concert turn. We have also added Chester, in wire and concert turn, and a band of fourteen pieces led by Ben Hur.
Notes from Hall & Sample's Shows. We were billed to open at Nora Springs, Ia., on May 17, but met with a severe rainstorm, so opened at Marble Rock, Ia., 19, to fair business, and in the rain. Since opening we have played to S. R. O. every night. Roster: F. W. Hall & Geo. C. Sample, owners and managers; Mrs. Hall and Mrs. Sample, on reserves; Jack Jefferies, comedian and dancer; Robt. Fontinelle, wire, traps, rolling barrel; Harietta Fontinelle, lady drum major on parade and baton juggler, and carrying perch; Geo. Kall, juggler and comedian; Arthur ___, slack wire, swinging perch, outside ascension; De Onzo, contortionist and high kicking; Prof. Mead, stereopticon; Florence Demar, serpentine; Baby ___ Fontinelle, tight wire; Wray Vaughan, illustrated songs; Prof. ___, leader of orchestra.
Notes from Reno's Great Allied Shows. We opened the season on May 9, at our own home, Kankakee, Ill., to big business, although it rained all the time and the lot was wet and muddy. We took the road May 11, and business has been big. Manager Reno is very well satisfied with the way the natives pour in. We have not missed a single performance, neither have we had any heavy rain or wind storms. We have had no accidents of any kind, for which we are truly thankful. At present we are in the coal mining towns of Illinois, and the sight of a circus tent sets them all wild. Our dressing room people are: Hardell Bros., horizontal bar; Chas. Stone, high wire and trapeze; Scott and Demardo, comedy brother act; Al. Vade, juggler and Japanese balancing; Robert Chaney, sailor perch, rings; Emily Reno and Chas. Stone, breakaway ladder; Williams and Harrison, revolving ladder and funny clowns; Ed. Reno's magic dogs and ponies, always make good. Everybody doubles in concert. Emma Reno still handles the paste boards, and they can't come too rapidly for her.
Annie Oakley, the well known rifle expert, has given up the circus business, but will continue to shoot at the trap and in the field.
New York Clipper, June 14, 1902, p. 349. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Geo. W. Hall's Two Ring Circus, Museum and Menagerie. We are in our sixth week of success. Everything is lovely around the show, and we have lsot but one night on account of rain. We carry a 100st. round top, with two __ft. middle pieces; 30ft. round top dressing tent, 30x50 cook tent, 40x80 horse tent, 50x70 side show tent. Executive staff: Geo. W. Hall, sole proprietor and manager; Frank Hall, treasurer; E. H. Keetch, equestrian director; Theo. Graupner, manager of side show; Thos. Aiton, general agent, with six assistants; Frank Wilder has charge of Hotel De Hall, with four assistants; James Cherry, boss canvas man, with twelve assistants; Wm. Bacon, boss property man, with three assistants; J. Brumley, chandelier man; A. Moore, boss hostler, with six assistants. W. C. Collier has charge of the orchestra of fourteen pieces, and Elmer Wygrant is leader of our brass band. Everybody is well around the show, and the man in white makes his appearance every Sunday morning. Ed. Keetch is making a good impression with his backward high dives from a 30ft. pedestal. F. V. ___, Dave Jones and Frank Hall share the applause with their clown work. Theo. Graupner is making a success with his fire act. C. A. Hibberd demands attention with his comedy juggling, slack wire and sensational revolving ladder act, assisted by Mons. Joannes. Sybil Keetch is doing her novel contortion act. Frank Hall's educated animals, including dogs, ponies, goats, monkeys and Pearl, the baby elephant, is one of the most ___ features of the show. Manager Geo. W. Hall's talking horses and pigs are certainly surprising the natives. Al. McLuth, flying traps; the Graham Bros., head to head balancers and double flying perch, always win applause. Red Wilder's somersault riding and Roman standing riding act also receive close attention. Master Russell Hall, infant snake charmers, has a den of forty venomous reptiles in surprising performances. Vernie ___, in a Pete Jenkins act, always sends them out with nothing but words of praise for the show. The side show business is beyond expectations. Theo. Graupner, orator, magic, ventriloquism; Loretto Schenck, lightning calculator; Theo. Graupner Jr., Punch and Judy and illusionist; Chas. Schenck, with his wrestling lion, "Wallace"; Theo. and Dolly Graupner, second sight; Mabel Elton, bearded lady, and the two headed calf. Roster of the show: Thos. Aiton, Fred J. Andrews, Wm. F. Adams, Jean V. Bricker, J. L. Bowmann, James Brumley, Frank Behan, W. C. Collier, Jas. Cherry, F. B. Curtis, Frank Daniels, Clyde Evans, Ed. F. Fallows, Lyle Graham, Theo. Graupner, Geo. W. Hall, Mrs. Geo. W. Hall, Frank E. Hall, Russel Hall, Ed. Holland, Verne Holvenstot, C. A. Hibbert, P. T. Ivenhoe, David Jones, Ed. H. Keetch, Mrs. Ed. H. Keetch, ___ Keetch, Syvil Keetch, Jno. T. Lewis, Elmer Mygrant, A. Moore, Walter Nelson, P. D. Norman, Louis Ottmer, I. G. O'Hara, Edward J. Pollock, H. O. Peters, Peter Reetz, Ovary T. Rudge, W. R. Reed, F. V. Schenck, A. L. Sidener, C. D. Smith, Carl Thornton, L. G. Thomas, Cy Updyke, Claude Van Dale, Frank Wilder, L. M. Weir, Oscar Weiss, Charles Weiss, Frank ___, S. M. Zoerger, John Zolo, Wm. Zacharias.
Notes from the Walter L. Main Show. Success has been our portion, and "turn aways" are the rule rather than the exception. We ran right into the cold spell at Erie, and continued with it through Buffalo, but no perceptible ill results ensued. At Erie, with a mean, cold night rain, we played at night to the capacity of the big top and filled every seat at the afternoon performance. The same thing was true in Buffalo. What other shows failed to do last Summer the Fashion Plate Shows did this year, and that was - turned them away in Buffalo. Mr. Main is having his most sanguine expectations realized. He has put together a menagerie and performance that make the Fashion Plate Shows a criterion, and the success of his efforts is unprecedented. His triumps he carries modestly. We have been out eight weeks, and have yet a losing stand to meet. This is saying a great deal, when weather, opposition and everything uncircuslike is considered. Eight weeks with good attendance is good circus work, but thirty-two turn aways in seven weeks is almost a record. There is nothing in idle boasting, but there is pleasure in stating facts. The show had made no new ground, but has gone over that which has been gone over before. Everybody is well and contented.
Al. Lindley was made agent of advertising car no. 2 of Campbell Bros.' Shows at Oakes, N.D., replacing Harry Busenbark.
The Alpines joined the Walter L. Main Show week of June 2.
Notes from the Great Sautelle Shows, Dean Sautelle, proprietor. We opened on May 28, with the tents at both afternoon and evening performances packed to the ring bank, while hundreds were turned away. Both press and public spoke in the highest praise of the show. Big business has ruled at every stand, with the exception of May 30, when the high winds prevented the tents being put up until an hour too late to give the afternoon show. The roster is as follows: Dean Sautelle, sole proprietor; James Shipman, general manager; Mrs. Dean Sautelle, treasurer; Frank Grant, general agent; Edwin Stone, press agent; Ed. Jamson, manager side show; Prof. G. H. Coon, leader of band no. 1; Prof. E. M. Ross, leader of band no. 2; Sam Angie, boss canvas man; E. C. Hovelock, boss hostler; Frank Adames, E. G. Emerson, Ed. Humphrey, Andy Lewis, Dan Brine, Frank Ross, D. L. Parks, Billie Rowe, Doctor St. George, ___ Travis, Andy White, Si Young, C. C. Parson, Pete Rice, Dave St. John, Ernest Barnum, Geo. Cleveland, H. Dailey, Sam Freeman, A. B. Gardner, W. H. Hill, John Redan, Geo. Martin, E. M. Paterson, James Stetson, D. E. Becket, Tom Burns, L. F. Firth, E. M. Hart, Ed. Brown, Frank Jones, Geo. Maddern, R. G. Smith, John Jamper, Ed. M. Lee, E. C. Horan, Ed. Cook, Alex. Carr, Billie Haywood, Frank Gavin, E. C. Clark, Wm. Bowers, Geo. Handover, Mike Connors, Bros. De Kneko, the Penes, Prof. Wood, Three Prescott Bros., Mr. and Mrs. White ___, Fred Parnados, Mrs. F. Patnados, Ida La Rue, Mons. De Elma, Dan Driscoll.
E. Bertrand Wyatt, an alto player of the John H. Sparks Circus, was compelled to return to his home on account of stomach and lung trouble.
Notes from Sells & Downs' United Shows. Never was a twenty car show of any kind put on the road with more perfect detail than has this one this season, and nothing has been overlooked in order to make this one of the leading circuses of the country. Each department has been equipped thoroughly. Sells & Downs, owners and managers; John Durnham, manager of privileges; Thomas Perry, treasurer; James Campbell, auditor and press agent; Harry Anderson, stenographer; Park Prentice, bandmaster, with twenty-five solo musicians; Joseph Berris, equestrian director; Scharr family of ladies and gentlemen, of 'cycle fame; Miss Edna, somersault rider; Orrin Davenport, somersault rider; the Ward Trio, ladders and acrobats; Starr, the shooting star; Ryden and Nelson, horizontal bars, return and casting act; William Rolland, mule hurdle jockey and wire; Miss N. Clark, menage act; Rose Maretta, balancing trapeze and trick horses; Alderfer, head balancer; Sassaria Trio, skatorial comiques; ___ Slaters, aerialists and rider; Jennie Bently, equilibrist; Delavoye and Fritz, Kitty Kruger, jockey and hurdle rider; Will Scharr, merry tramp awheel; the Onzons, contortionists; ___, wire walker and drum major; Johnson and Collins, comic boxers and acrobats; Bon Ton Sisters, aerialists and acrobats; the Pearsons, high walkers and aerialists; Thomas Nelson, double somersault leaper; Will Delavoye, principal clown; Winslow and Conklin, clowns and mule hurdle riders; Sassaria, Nelson Fritz, Pittsburgh, Buckskin, William Morris (Frenchy), Chapman, Harry Steel, Billy Lambert and Clarence Hoyt, George Atkinson, monologists, in charge of the concert; Conklin and Clark, comedy musical act; Miss Prentice, buck and wing dancer; the California team of Irish knockabouts; Miss Bentley, serio comic; Mrs. and Mrs. Lawrence Cheatham and company and the Boston Quartet, Hall and Haley, burlesque orators; Collins Sisters, serpentine dancers, closing with a special one act farce comdey entitled "No You Don't"; Frank Price, boss props, with fifteen men; Geo. Wormald, boss canvas man, with fifty old timers; Jim Gallagher, first assistant; second assistant, Jim Finnegan; Bill Yates and Joe Day, seat men; Frank Irvine, chandeliers, with Charles Emerson as an efficient assistant; Charles Adair, front door man; Wm. Hines, ring maker; Lewis McCoy, blacksmith; J. Collins, assistant; Walter Howard, boss hostler; Charles Spaulding, assistant; Ed. O'Connell (Boston), Saginaw, eight horse driver; helper, W. Weiter. Other drivers: John Miles, H. Good hal, John W. Miles, W. Lovell, J. J. Scott, Jim Oats, H. Down, Frank Vaughn, D. H. Scott, W. Cox, John Marchall, ___, D. H. Hanson, C. Craven, Ed. Murphy, mules. Ring stock men (Charles Spaulding in charge): E. W. Baker, R. I. Mills, Newt. Hansard, J. Brown, R. Reed, G. Gould, A. Andy. The dining tents are in charge of Harry Craig, assisted by Charles Lumpkins and twenty waiters. Our side show is directed by Mr. Gillespie, who also has his wonderful performing monkeys with him; Bal Broman, sleight of hand; Princess Olga, the reptilian queen; Prince Mungo, Afghan warrior and Zulu cheiftain; John Patrick, giant wild man; Jennita, the Grecian wonder; Millie Gillespie, mind reader; Oskeleto's Oriental dancers; Major George, midget cornet virtuoso; J. Allen, Punch and Judy; ___ the hypnotic marvel; The Alabama Troupe of cake walkers; ___, the gipsy queen; Tribano, long haired lady; Carlin Sisters, song and dance; Berlinko, bearded lady; Palestine, elastic skin lady; Kitty Debrenau, sensational dancer. Free out door show of 100ft. blindfolded high diver, by Harry Plunger, and 200ft. high bicycle ride for life by Miss Coulter. Announcers and orators: McNew and Gillespie. Canvas in charge of McCoy, and James Wolfscale's band of twenty musicians. The red top of Egyptian wonders, managed by Thomas W. Ryan, with Frederica ___, queen of the Orient; Walter Jones, late fort-two weeks with Barlow's Minstrels; Madame Zora, the Pan-American wonder; Fuzzy Wuzzy Sisters, dancers; Clementina Scott, serpentine dancer; Bean and Yuta, pole dancers and Shegets, the Harem's favorit; band of mandolines and banjos, headed by Claffin and Dorman. James McElroy is our wide awake twenty-four hours man. Dutch During is our master of transportation; J. Main, assistant, with fifteen mechanics; general all around mechanic, W. Yovaled. J. T. Fletcher, with twenty-five men, has charge of the menagerie, which is the best and biggest that has ever traveled through this section of the country. Everybody is as happy as a king, owing to the exceptional comfort that has been provided for them, and all wish that the season would never close.
Col. G. W. Hall has this to say: "Have been busy organizing the coming show for the last two months. Three car shops have been manufacturing new cars for my show, and painters have been at work for three weeks decorating dens and cages. Geo. Carpenter is building tents. I will bring out one of the finest shows of the season. Some of the chief features are as follow: Columbus, the largest elephant in the world, which stands nearly twelve feet high; the Egyptian Bovalupus, den of largest lions in America, drove of dromedaries and camels, leopards and jaguars in acrobatic act, the monkey aeronaut, in parachute leap, and Cardona's flock of acting geese, five in number.
Notes from Hall & Sample's United Shows. We are playing towns now that have not had a show for two or three seasons, and consequently we are overcrowded at every stand. Our big top is not half large enough to accomodate the people. We are getting into the lake regions, and everyone is talking of fishing.
Warren A. Patrick, the well known circus treasurer, has resumed his former position of general treasurer with the Walter L. Main Shows. He joined the organization at Bellefonte, Pa., on Wednesday, June 4.
Kid Koster has closed with car no. 2, Walter L. Main's Show, and has joined the Buffalo Bill no. 1 car. He will be genral agent with one of Gus Hill's attractions next season.
Newton Marks, programme agent of the Forepaugh-Sells Bros. Circus, was taken seriously ill recently and was compelled to return to his home in New York City.
New York Clipper, June 21, 1902, pp. 368, 373, 374. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Capt. Stewart's Big 10 and 20 Cent Circus. We opened at Fort Wayne, Ind., April 27, and since then we have toured all the show towns in the Northern line of counties of Indiana from the Ohio line to the Illinois line, and the next line of counties South to Ohio. Our business has been wonderfully good. We are now going into the gas and oil fields. We have just received our new 60x90 tent and our new dressing tent, and the Stars and Stripes float from three centre poles, twelve quarter poles and twenty-six side poles daily. Our band parade is winning laurels every day. Roster: Cap. Stewart, proprietor and manager; Mrs. Cap. Stewart, treasurer; Prof. Risley, leader of orchestra and band. Performers: Howarad Stewart, Charley Stewart, Byron Stewart, Sam McCarty, C. I. Jackson, Kelly Jackson, Harris Murphy, Billy Clark, Minnie Weaver, Fannie Bloom. Band and orchestra: Prof. Risley, Harris Murphy, Art. Risley, Harry Risley, Chet Risley, Bob Risley, John Weaver, Ben Moore and Wm. Smead.
The Imhouse Family of acrobats have joined the Busby Bros.' Circus for the summer season, to do their acrobatic and trapeze act. They are also doing as an outside attraction a bicycle act and double traps on the high wire, and are meeting with success.
Harry J. Read sailed June __ for Bologne, France, to join the Barnum & Bailey Show for the remainder of its stay in Europe.
Notes from Keno, Welch & Melrose Shows. We opened Tuesday, June 10, to a packed house, with a new top - the first time it was ever put up. The show is one of the best, cleanest and neatest small shows that ever hit Pittsburg. We are here to stay, and Keno, Welch & Melrose have spared no expense to make this one of the best 10 and 20 cent shows on the road. The following people are with the show: Keno, Welch & Melrose, proprietors and managers; Frank Walters, assistant manager. Advance: Frank H. McClue, agent; Joe F. Dunn, lithographer; Harry Claborne, banner man; Polly Williams, programmes; W. H. Harris, boss bill poster, with three assistants. Cook house: Henry Russell, cook, with four assistants and two waiters. Dutch Healey, boss canvas man, and eight assistants; Ed. Hare, boss props, with three assistants; J. Windish, leader of band, with nine mouthpieces and two drums. Performers: Homer Hall, equestrian director; Harry Franklin, principal cloown; John McDonald, contortionist; Three Franklin Bros., barrel jumpers; Hayes Wertz and wife, double traps and breakaway ladder; R. W. McGraw, cannon ball juggler and strong man; Florence Franklin, rolling globe and wire act; Homer Hall, single traps and rings; T. C. Carrier, bars and foot juggler; the Hilberts, Ben and May, battle axe and club jugglers; and Keno, Welch and Melrose, comedy acrobats.
Notes from Darling and De Onzo Brothers' Circus. We have been following in after the big shows through Ohio, and have struck quite a few little shows, of which Ohio has her share this season. The strong opposition we have had has not affected our business in the least. It was been a case of packing them to the ring bank in nearly every stand. We have not lost one performance since our opening. Our big top is not half large enough to accommodate the crowds. We add another 40ft. centre piece at Marion. We are now working East, and all are happy and enjoying their circus trip. Business has gradually increased, although we have encountered a great deal of rain and a few school commencements. All the boys with the show feel glad, as the ghost has walked regularly, and the Clipper is always found in our tents. Rawls, the contortionist,and Neola, the juggler, have closed. J. M. Traber, our treasurer, left us at Upper Sandusky for a few days' visit with his mother at Hamilton, O., and his place is being filled by Wm. De Onzo until his return. The show is gradually moving Eastward, and expects to close about the middle of September, when the De Onzo Brothers will immediately commence their winter season with their combined dramatic and vaudeville company. At Findlay, Gus Sun and friends paid the show a visit. Mr. Sun reported business good with his "Uncle Tom" show, under canvas.
A tornado struck the main tent of the Harris Nickel Plate Circus at Sigourney, Ia., on June 12. The tent was blown down, and of the two thousand spectators, men, women and children, about twenty-five were injured.
Notes from Bonheur Brothers' Show. The New Allied Golden Shows opened to good business in the home of the troopers, and against much opposition and extremely bad weather, floods, windstorms, execrable roads and dangerous fords on the sites of washed out bridges, did excellent work and land office business at every point billed. Many places witnessed the sight of ladies and their escorts wading show mouth deep in muddy street crossings, sheltered from a down pour of rain by slickers and umbrellas, to gain the ticket wagon near the main entrance of the big top. The roster of the show on the working froce was continually being changed, only the wet weather men sticking to their positions. On Sunday, May 20, a cyclone sprang up, and crossed the fields within a half mile of the moiving caravan, the rising soil going off in a northeasterly direction, while the show was moving directly south. The way it plowed up the dirt from the fields and sent it skyward, like a black cloud, was a sight indeed. The teamsters put whips to their horses to escape the tornado's force and gain a big district school house about a mile further on. By the time the building was reached the rain was dashing down in bucketfuls and flooding the level country like a vast lake. It was just noon and the open school yard was filling up not only with water but with circus wagons and teams. An employee was dispatched to the director of the school, who chanced to be an old timer, W. M. Hand, who had traveled extensively in the employ of Uncle Sam, having spent several years in geographical surveys in the Yellow Stone Park. He promptly came down over a mile in the rain and opened the building for the show company, and a good dinner was soon prepared. The spread was made across the patent seats on an improvised table of blue seat boards, and was relished by all, while Mr. Hand honored the managers by joining the feast. At Caldwell, Kan., on May __, right behind the Lee Great London, which showed there the day before, our show did enormous business. When weather has been fair the turn outs were up to standing room only. For three weeks the canvas was never dry. At one time in Oklahoma the show was largely attended, and the next day, while twenty miles en route, a storm destroyed the whole town at the previous day's stand. Again, after crossing Black Bear River, a huge water spout flooded the valley and washed out twelve bridges, including the one over which the show had safely crossed the day before. Improvements have been made every day in the show and everyone is pleased with its novelty and the originality of its features, which, while not of the daring, hair lifting lines, are of a most pleasing and instructive nature, interspersed with genuine, healthy fun and laughter. A fine new slide and film dissolving machine, made by J. R. Bonheur during the past winter, is used. A startling feature of the moving pictures is a realistic reproduction of the eruption of Mt. ___ and the destruction of St. Pierre, in the Island of Martinique.
Notes from Buckley's Big Show. This is the second week out. Everything is moving like clock work, and business has been very good. No changes have been made except in musicians. The following performers at in the dressing roff: Jack Troy, Shields and goldry, the De Pontas, Flowers Bros., John Staley and Frank Breining. The Stewarts, gymnasts, were visitors on June 12, and the Houghs Family and members of the Irene Jeavons Co., and Chas. Morosco, clown, visited us 13, at Kittanning. We are putting on a very strong concert, featureing Mr. and Mrs. De Pontas, in a three round boxing contest, which makes a big success. Manager Buckley has ordered a new 30ft. middle piece and ten lenghts of blues. Prof. Smouse and his clown band are making a great impression in parade, as are also Prof. Valentine and his military band. Edgar Smouse and Jack Troy's high diving dog alternate in outside ascension.
Robert Gifford joined Busby Bros.' R. R. Show, at Pana, Ill., for the season, to do his contortion act in the big show, and his fire act in the concert.
Campbell Bros. are seeking a new locatin for winter quarters, and now have their eyes on Superior, Wis., which Mr. Campbell says has many advantages, the chief one mentioned by him being the extremely healthy climate; also the fact that the water is pure and feed can be procured comparatively cheap. He said that he had been looking over one or two pieces of property with a view to purchasing.
The Ruther Bros., acrobats, and De Land, contortionist, write that the Rice, Cooper & O'Brien Shows stranded in Milton, Pa., on June 13. They also complain of unprofessional treatment at the hands of the managers.
The Wallace Show was struck by a tornado at Sturgis, Mich., on Friday, June 13, during the evening performance, and the tent collapsed. Many people were injured.
J. W. Taft is playing tuba with Welsh Bros. band.
A line from Hall & Sample's United Shows. Still having good business. R. C. Moore, slide trombone, joined us last week. We came very near having a blow down at Sherburn, and, as it was, we missed a performance.
John Foster, one of the oldest clowns living, has proven a popular feature of the Greater New York Permanent Circus. Mr. Foster is still hale and hearty, and his work is as effective as of yore.
Annie Oakley (Mrs. Frank E. Butler), the crack shot, is in St. Michael's Hospital, Newark, N.J., where a surgical operation was performed on her. She was internally injured about a year ago in an accident on a southern railroad while traveling with Buffalo Bill's Wild West.
Notes from the Great Buffalo and Wild West Shows United. The wild herd of buffaloes used with the above show are being trained for their grand debut at Helena, July 4, during the dedication of the State capitol. It is surprising what intelligence the bison exhibits, but he does not take kindly to civilization. Frank James has made an offer to lead the cowboy parade, and the noted Missourian may be signed. A strong feature of the show will be the "broncho busint." Twenty lady riders, mounted on bucking cayuses, will surely startle the natives. Among the acts worthy of special note will be rope juggling, fancy shooting and reckless riding by ___ stars. Manager Geo. L. Hutchin has a superb executive staff, including Daniel F. McCoy, general agent; Chris. O. Brown, press representative, and P. McHenry, contracting agent. A celebrated cowboy band will lead the parade. The show is admirably organize.
Notes from the King E. Ziemer Royal American Shows. We have played the city of St. Louis since April 17, to good business, while everybody is well, and the spectre perambulates regularly. The new car has arrived, and it is a beauty - 70 feet long, painted a snow white and trimmed in vermillon and gold, with the picture of King E. Ziemer in ___ colors on both sides. This show carries only the best perfromers, and gives the best of satisfaction. People just joined: the Two Eddies, concert team. We will tour Missouri, Illinois, Iowa, the Dakotas and Nebraska.
New York Clipper, June 28, 1902, pp. 393, 394. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Harris' Nickel Plate Circus. Business is big all through Iowa, notwithstanding the fact that we have had two weeks of wet weather, and a young cyclone at Sigourney sent the big top uptown. Three weeks ago the boys got together and formed a branch lodge of the Order of Jolly Puffs, making No. 3 of that order, which is becoming so popular in the circus world. Geo. Motz was duly elected president; Bert King, vice president. The others of the members are: Geo. Jennier Jr., Albert Orton, Barney Shea, Claud Orton, Fred Green, Alex. Bowls, Geo. Parrento, Geo. Brouse, Lew White, Henry Sifley, Billy Mencer, Arthur Herman and Frankie Harris.
Dot and Bob Romola write: "We are in our fourth week with Campbell Bros.' Circus, doing our specialty in the concert, and playing to packed houses. We closed with the Haywood Comedy Co. May 21, and joined Campbell Bros. at Washington, Ky., May 22.
Roster of advance car no. 2, Gollmar Bros. & Schuman's Two Big Shows United: Geo. F. Cable, advertising agent, in charge of three advertising wagons; Geo. Baldwin, boss bill poster; assistant bill posters: H. Thomas, Ed. Marsden, Ed. McCabe, Jim Black, Chas. Botts, Wm. Ward, Wm. Bowen, Geo. Singer, Walt. Long; Grip McConald, lithographer; Chas. Slanson, programmer.
O. W. Cortney reports success with Sig. Sautelle's Circus, with which he is doing his tramp juggling act.
Roster of Busby Bros.' Band: E. D. Hayworth, director of band and solo cornet; ?. K. Hart, solo cornet; C. B. White, first cornet; Chas. Pullen, first clarionet; Walt Strong, second clarionet; Ed Long, first alto; H. Z. Williams, second alto; Earl Trousedale, first baritone; Harry Dolton, second trombone; Cal. Davenport, baritone; H. M. Ewing, tuba; Nester Earhart, drums; Robert Gifford, bass drum; Johnnie Reilly, drum major.
Notes from Hall & Sample's United Shows. Shows of all kinds are thick in this neck of the woods, and we have had to cancel some of our dates. One at Butterfield, Minn., where the Batavia R. R. Theatre Co. got in ahead of us, and we played Darfur instead. We only give one show a day, so the Fontinells stopped off for their afternoon performance, which was very good. The entire company visited Gollmar Bros. & Shuman's Circus at Springfield, and some stayed for the afternoon show. We were royally entertained, all agreeing that better people were never met. The Patten family visited us at Wanda, and Dr. Costello and wife at Wabasso. The town we are now playing are new and thriving, and although we have rain almost every night, we still do a good business. Jack S. Jefferies, in songs, dances and funny sayings, and George Kall, tramp juggler, are making them laugh heartily.
We have received the following letter from John L. Jensen, through the kindness of Wm. R. Klein, to whom it was written. It is dated June _, and was sent from Point a ___, Guadaloupe, Leeward Islands: "I am the captain of the Norwegian barkentine, Yolanda, which sailed from St. Pierre, Martinique, three days before the eruption of Mont ___ started. It was smoking when I left for this port. My reason for writing you is to let you know about some of your friends whom I met at St. Pierre. They made up a small company (eleven in all). They had a tent and were doing a fair business. The show was called the Ducrow & Roderiquez Franco-American Circus. I knew them all very well. I was at the show a great deal, and they all used to come aboard quite often, and we had many a jolly time together. I think they must have perished with the many thousands who met death at the first terrible catastrophe, because I have heard of all of the survivors who have arrived in this port, but can get no trace of them, though I have made every possible effort to learn of their fate. I hope I can get news of them before I sail from this port next week, but fear my hoping is useless. Because all of the members of the show lived in America,and for the sake of their friends, I send this information. The company was made up of Pedro Rodriguez, wife and three children, gymnasts; Tote Ducrow, clown; Charles Buckingham, contortionist; Antonio ___, clown; Leon Maguid, acrobat; Pedro Monserrat, advance agent and John McLean, boss canvas man. Kindly inform their friends and you will oblige yours truly, John L. Jensen."
Jas. A. Morrow, formerly of Sells & Gray's Circus, has succeeded Lew Nichols as manager of the side show with Buckskin Bill's Wild West, and is doing well. He writes that Mr. Nichols left many warm friends with the Wild West show.
Charles J. Newton, the singing and talking clown, has joined Sig. Sautelle's Circus.
George Kall is making a success with Hall & Sample's Circus, doing his tramp juggling.
Notes from the Great Barlow Show. We are now in our seventh week; all are well and business good. Arthur Howe, Frank Decker and Tom Linder, Ed. McDonald, Will Lytel and Etta Lease, the midget, who opened at South Milford, are cheerful members.
Notes from Ziemer's Royal American Shows. We are now touring through southern Illinois, and are at Waterloo until June 22, thence to Red Bud, Ill., after which we play Sparta, Ill. We perform to full tents every night, and thus far business has been fine. We have added a trick mule in the show, and he is doing great.
Lola Cody, of the Cody Sisters, with Buckskin Bill's Wild West, was called to her home at St. Louis, on June 10, on account of the death of her mother.
The Model Plate R. R. Shows played Hoversville, Pa., on June 20, and were paid a visit by Harkness & Fox's "Little Hawkeye" Co., and Natures Remedy Co. All enjoyed a pleasant time, and were dined on the private car of Augustus Jones. . . .
Billy Nelson, late of the Palace Theatre, Manchester, N.H., has charge of one of the side shows with Pawnee Bill's Wild West.
New York Clipper, July 5, 1902, pp. 407, 414, 416. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Walter L. Main Fashion Plate Show notes. . . . New Britain, Conn. was canceled for very good reasons, and Middletown, Conn., made on twelve hours' notice, without any billing at all, only programmes, two evening newspapers and dodgers being used to herald the coming of the show. Friday morning at 11:30 New Britain was canceled, and at 3:30 the same afternoon the first announcement was made in Middletown that the Main Circus would be there the following day. This was quick time, but, despite the rain that fell on Saturday, the show lost no money, but put the figures on the side of the ledger where they look best. . . . We open in Boston, Mass., Monday, for a week, and, as it will be the show's first visit to the City of Culture, great results are hoped for.
Roster of Gollmar Bros. & Schuman's Show. Gollmar Bros., sole owners; Chas. A. Gollmar, manager; B. F. Gollmar, treasures; Fred C. Gollmar, advance manager; W. S. Gollmar, assistant manager; Harry manager of annex; James Fitzgerald, manager of annex; James Fitzgerald, manager of concert; Doc Parkhurst, boss canvas man; Curly, boss of menagerie top; Duthc Henry, boss of side show top; Wm. Jinks, boss animal man; John Bay, assistant boss animal man; Al. Jones, boss chandelier man; George Holland, boss hostler; Will Dourgherty, in charge of cage train; Bert ___ in charge of baggage train; Ed. Maher, cook house and candy stands; George Shumway, boss candy butcher; Frank Seavey, leader of big band, with the following men: Walter ___, Bob De Graff, Wm. Kohler, Gus Peterson, Ed. ___, Wm. Dunn, Al ___, Pete Christinsen, Emil Walters, Thomas Newest, Arthur Plantz, Wm. ___, Frank Leeder, Gus Forbes, Chas. E. Grau, Wm. Leeder, Jas. Fitzgerald and Frank Macart, announcers. Performers in big show: Wm. Adair, head balancing trapeze; Hattie Adair, juggler; Gusty Brandon, juggler; Frank ___, aerial contortionist; Martine and Stewart, aerial bars; John Willis and John Rooney, jockey acts; ___, barrel jumpers; Fred and Blanche De Ivey, acrobats; Zella, hand balancer; "Palm" and "Dutch," trained elephants, worked by Wm. Jinks and John Ray; Wm. and Hattie ___, wire act; Martine and Stewart, ___; Blanche De Ivey, perch; John Rooney and John Willis, somersault ridrs; Silverlake Bros., aerialists; ___, aerialists; trained horses and ponies, worked by John Willis and John Rooney; Wertz and Adair, acrobats; Henry and Gusty Brandon, revolving ladder act; ___ and Stewart, revolving ladder act; De Iveys, ladder perch; "Kid" and "Saltan," cake walking horses; Silverlake Bros., return act; Fred De Ivey, high stilts; January and pony act; Clowns: Harry Brandon, Henry ___, George Zella, Fred Martine, Bert Stewart, Frank ___, John Silverlake, Archie Silverlake, ___, and Billy Maloney; John Willis and John Rooney, four horse act. Annex people: Frank Macart, Jessie Macart, ___, Frank Le Roy, ___, Billy Maloney, Geraldo, Ross Sisters and Three La Reno Sisters. Concert people: Billy Maloney, Harry Brandon, Frank Le Roy, Three La Reno Sisters and Wheeler and Mack. The show opened at Baraboo, Wis., on May 30, to big business, which has continued in spite of bad weather and opposition.
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Shows. The yellow wagon shows are this year unusually fortunate, doing a phenomenal business. A. G. Bonheur, who manages the advance, visited the show during four days recently, to arrange with his brothers for the Fourth of July business. The show will be in Larned, Kan., on that date. Mr. Bonheur left the advance brigade entirely in the hands of William H. Tibbils, who is proving his efficiency in the line of his profession and his loyalty to the business interests of his employers. The Musican Brennans, with the extraordinary display of musical marvels, to which they have greatly added since leaving the show quarters, are now presenting an act that is full of absorbing interest and humor. Eddie Brennan has been a sufferer for several week from blood poisoning, which originated through an attack of Kansas chiggers. He has not let the trouble interfere, however, with his regular routine of work. A chigger bite is not quite as dangerous as a conger's, but, considering the microscopic size of the pest compared to the conger, he is more to be dreaded. The wound left on Mr. Brennan by this minute terror of the Kansas prairies is a bitter warning to "keep off the grass." All the performers are doing meritorious work, but we are unable to mention them in detail at this writing. Howard Bonheur is busy from early sunrise till late at night, and does not generally get to bed until about two o'clock in the morning, leaving him only about five hours of sleep out of the twenty-four. Eternal vigilance is the price of wealth, and nothing escapes the eye of J. R. Bonheur, who is ever on the watch in the interest of the show. Everything is running as smoothly as glass, and the company meets with favor at every stand.
The Hill Troupe of acrobats have joined the John Robinson Ten Big Shows for the balance of the season. . . . will sail for London, Eng., when the show closes.
Roster and notes from C. A. Phinney's Great American Show. Ralph A. Pinkham, manager; Harry ___, advance agent, with two assistants. We are in our sixth week of prosperous business, and, nothwithstanding the last week's rain, we have filled our big tent nightly. Our steam calliope, which is one of the finest in the country, played by Prof. Wood, attracts large crowds of people to the grounds, both afternoon and evening. The band, under the leadership of Prof. John J. Cox, cornet; Le Roy W. Ruberg, alto; C. W. Miller, baritone; R. Hunter, bass; G. Vogel, trombone; F. Ainsley, clarionet; G. Brown, cornet; A. Biglow, piccolo; Bert Davies, trap drummer. Performers: Prof. Tony White, with his singing donkey and bucking donkey "Cyclone"; Madame White and her performing horses; Mr. and Mrs. Newel, Roman rings; Mr. and Mrs. Daily, double traps; J. M. Hart, ladder and triple bars; the Jennete Brothers, acrobats and double traps; Prof. Parks' troupe of performing dogs; Arthur Fox, lightning baton juggler; Dally and Kempton, breakaway perch; Evertt A. Kempton, principal clown; A. Fox, singing clown; A. Fuller acrobatic clown; Frank Kempton, in charge of canvas, with fourteen assistants; Johnny Hughs, head props, with three assistants; Steve Perry, in charge of twenty head of stock; Shorty Brailey, chandelier man; Louis Cook, head chef; ___ Johnson, seat man; Theodore Phinney, treasurer, and Tony White, equestrian director.
Chas. A. White, who is now connected with the advance staff of Ringling Bros.' Circus, in the capacity of special opposition agent, will close his circus season the latter part of July, owing to having been engaged by Al. W. Martin to manager his big revival of "Ten Nights in a Bar Room" next season. W. C. Cunningham will act as general manager of the Martin enterprises in the future.
Clarence M. George ("Shorty George") closed with the Sells-Downs Circus at ___, O., on June 24, because of poor health. He is now resting at his home in Carrollton, O.
William T. Clay, an old showman, better known as "Barnum," had his left arm badly clawed on June __ by "Julis," a lioness, in a side show at the Elks' street fair, Oakland, Cal. He was taken to the hospital, and several stitches were taken in the wound, which is not considered a dangerous one.
Arthur Berry is in his eighth week with Busby Bros.' R. R. Show. He is doing his bounding rope act in the big show, and buck and wing dancing in concert.
Buckskin Bill's Wild West Side Show notes. We are under the management of the ever popular Jas. A. Morrow, and are meeting with great success in West Virginia and Kentucky. Size of tent 60x120. Twelve banner front, all double deckers, and four ticket boxes. Colored band of ten pieces, and twelve platforms, filled with up to date attractions, making it the most complete side shows on the road.
New York Clipper, July 12, 1902, p. 433. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
From the No. 1 advertising car of the Buffalo Bill Wild West. The bill posters are forming a union, for circus bill posters only, and in order to become a member of the union a man is required to have been in the business five years. He must also have three well known agents to vouch for him, and say that he is competent to perform his duty as circus bill poster. The union is also going to particularly strict in insisting on strict sobriety. The roster of the above car include: H. C. Hedges, car manager; Oliver Lester, boss bill poster; Harvey Long, boss lithographer; John Clair, boss programmer. Bill posters: Geo. Fraser, Doc Epperson, Pete rahr, Geo. Schrader, Jack Laudsay, John Sullivan, J. Deegan, Geo. Fanning, Pete Sleight, Harry Tracy, Chas. Kostler, Wm. Dupont, Steve Dwyer, Wm. ___, C. Inman, Wm. Deckert, ___ Ordway, Wm. Piper, J. J. Eisle, ___, Geo. Reid; chef, Edward Bryant . . .
Notes from Campbell Brothers' Great Consolidated R. R. Shows. We are now starting our tenth week, and have had some dreadful hard winds and rain to contend with. In Atchison, Kan., May 22, we were struck by a severe wind storm, which occurred shortly after we had started the night show. It was noticed, however, before it reached us, and Doc Campbell notified the vast audience of 3,000 people of the danger that might befall them should they remain in the large tent during the storm, and in a very few minutes, just as a few were making their escape, the wind reached us, blowing at the rate of about sixty miles an hour. It demolished the large spread of canvs and broke one of the large poles in the big top. In fact, the entire spread of canvas with the exception of the horse and cook tents, was swept down by the fierce gale and wrecked. But Campbell Bros., being prepared for such emergencies, had an extra layout of canvas, and the next day the entire show went up as usual, at Hiawatha, Kan., as if nothing had happened, and the destroyed canvas was shipped to Kansas City to be repaired. The show consists of two rings and one elevated stage. There are over three hundred people with the show. We are pleasing the natives, and you can hear them saying, as they leave the lot: "It is a fine show." The business has been astonishing, always big, rain or shine. In Yankton, S. Dak., June 3, Frank Caldwell and J. W. Cook originated and organized the "Order of Camels." The first to receive obligations in the order were Robert Campbell, Mrs. Helen Mathews and Mrs. Emma Caldwell, and on the following Monday afternoon Mrs. Al. Campbell, Mrs. Doc Campbell and Mrs. Lee Greer were made members of the order. Then, on the following Sunday, we started across the desert with Doc Campbell, Lee Greer, Virge Campbell, Fredie Hatfield, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Campbell, father and mother of the Campbell Bros.; Mrs. Gracie Campbell and Mrs. Ed. Campbell. At present our membership numbers over forty, and we have several candidates waiting. Everybody is pleased with the ritualistic work as well as the tests they have to undergo before they can be well fed camels. The officers are as follows: Frank Caldwell, chief Arab; J. W. Cook, first Arab; Virge Campbell, second Arab; Robert Campbell, third Arab; Lee Greer, administrator of the work; Ed. Campbell, treasurer; J. C. Marsh, secretary; Mrs. Lee Greer and Mrs. Emma Caldwell, guides over the desert. At Pembina, N. Dak., where we showed June 23, the camels had their first pleasure trip and picnic. June 22 they obtained rigs from the livery stable and drove over to Emerson, Manitoba. The men played ball while the ladies prepared dinner. After dinner we initiated the following candidates: Mr. Quinett, advance agent of the show, who was back on business (we made him an honorary member, and, although he belongs to several lodges, we had him guessing); Mr. ___, Mr. Tora and Mr. Cole. After everybody had enjoyed themselves to their heart's content, we started back for Pembina, just when we reached there we discovered we had left pour Joker. As luck would have it, a camel and some railroad men were coming to Pembina on a hand car. Joker saw them some distance, gave the call of distress, which was heard by the camel, and his cry ws heeded, so Joker got back into the herd of camels, unhurt. Our side show is managed by ?. C. Shipley. It has a colored band of ten pieces, with Chas. Clark as leader. Ada Zingara, snake enchantress; J. W. Cook, magic, Punch and Judy and ventriloquist; Frank and Emma Caldwell, tattooed people; the ___, impalement act; Helen Mathews, long haired lady; Robt. Campbell, Scotch bagpipe player; Frank Devney, Albino; South Sea Island Zell Zola; Wm. Meyers, Senator McDonald and Clancy Thompson, ticket sellers and door talkers; Chas. Fletcher, ticket taker, assisted by Wm. Cashman; ___ Shipley, orator. The side show has been packed at every performance so far. . . .
Frank Maynard, the clown, is still with the W. L. Main Circus.
Le Cirque ___ De Hill is the name of a new venture in the tented field, launched this season by H. Percy Hill, the opening occurring at St. Henri, a suburb of Montreal, Can., Monday June 16. It is a wagon show, the performance being given under an 80ft. round top, with a 40ft. middle piece, and dressing top 12x24. The performers include: Horace Barr, strong man and athlete; Bernice Nata, in an exhibition under water; Joe Bartelli's Troupe of acrobats; Bedard and Bedard, equilibrists and balancers; ___, triple bars; ___, Roman axe juggling; Frank Machan, head balancing on trapeze; Signorita ___, contortionist; Beaudin, on the swinging wire; Lamart and ___, revolving ladders; and others. Norman ___, with his school of performing horses, including "Rochelle," and the high diving dogs, "Joe" and "Percival," are special features. . . . H. Percy Hill is represented by Crosbie McArthur, with Paul ___ in charge of the advance. The route of the show is through Quebec.
New York Clipper, July 19, 1902, pp. 451, 454. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Whitney Family Big one Ring Shows. Despite the rainy weather, we still continue to do good business. Several changes hae been made in the roster, and the show is now the strongest we have carried for years. We have experienced lots of trouble lately with washouts on account of the recent heavy rains. On July 6 we arrived at Mooreville, our stand, and 6:30 in the evening, three bridges being washed out on the route and delaying us. One hour later the big top was up and the band playing their usual concert, and at 8 o'clock the top was packed to the ring bank, and the show on its way. Following is the complete roster: A. V. Whitney, proprietor; C. A. Whitney, general manager; L. P. Whitney, equestrian director; W. Walbourn, business manager and press agent; John S. Phillips, leader of band; Nelson Lorange, leader of orchestra; Geo. Messenger, boss canvas man, with six assistants; Shorty Brandon, boss property man, with two assistants; John ___, boss hostler, with four assistants; E. S. Murphy, general agent; Jack Peach, in charge of second advance; Theo. Feasley, comedy juggler and baton; Montgomery Bros., brother act and leaps; Master Julian, contortion and staircase; Wm. Jenkinson, high wire and flying traps; the Rhodes Family, breakaway ladder, and acrobats; Griffiths and Feasley, expert horizontal bars; the Zolas, comedy table; Jenkinson and Whitney, revolving ladder and comedy acrobats. Band: John S. Phillips, L. P. Whitney,___ Howard, Nelson Loranger, F. H. Fink, J. H. Rhodes, W. Walbourn, W. H. Lang. . . .
The Pan-American Show and European Menagerie advertising car No. 1 is made up of the following people: Chas. Ellis, manager; J. Dukes, boss bill poster; Ike Worth, lithographer; J. Sullivan, programmer; W. ___, S. Smith, A. Jackson, H. Joyce, F. Katz and S. Mosler, bill posters.
Mid Summer notes concerning Welsh Bros.' "Newest Great." The present tour of the popular Welsh Bros.' Show continues to be a succession of triumphs. Immense business has been accorded the show everywhere this season, expecially in the States of New York and New Jersey. Elmira, Binghamton, and Passaic favored us with "turnway" crowds. The magnificence of the street parade, the slick looking condition of the horses, the the great merti and up to date quality of the big show performances and the mammoth appearance of the entire show plant are the causes of this gratifying business. The fourteenth week of the present season has just been entered upon, and up to this writing the show has met with no accidents or blow downs, and has had an entire absence of illness among the people, while all are in fine spirits. Chas. Deonzo, barrel jumper, and ___ and Leo, comedy aerilists, are recent additions to the big show programme. The show this week is touring the towns of Long Island. It being the first appearance of the troupe in that section. Col. M. H. Welsh is at the helm daily, and things are kept humming under his direction. General agent John Welsh is stationed at Pittsburg, directing the movements of the show from that point.
Hall & Sample's Show notes. We are still among the living, and doing good business. At Nassau, Minn., on July 4, we were to have given two performances. In the afternoon we had to turn them away, and at __ we had a terrific wind and dust storm, which compelled us to lower our top in a hurry, but we were not in time to save it entirely, as it was somewhat torn, and with broken poles, etc., we could not give the night show, so had to disappoint the large crowd assembled. J. S. Jeffries received a telegram stating that his mother was bery low, so he closed July 1. ___ Albaugh, cornettist, joined us July 3. Mrs. Fontinelle is now doing the serpentine dance, and making a good impression everywhere.
Roster of E. G. Smith's Imperial Show. E. G. Smith, owner and manager; Nellie Smith, treasurer; K. E. Iseminger, advance agent; Ed. Thirs, boss bill poster, with one assistant; J. J. Beady, ring director; Jessie Mills, general superintendent; Charles Townsend, boss canvas man; Ed. Fritz, boss hostler. The show opened April 21, and has met with great success. We have not lost an exhibition.
Notes from Asa Barker's Big 10 and 20 Cent Show. We are in our seventh week, and are not much worse off for the storms that we have encountered this summer. We have just come out of Indiana, and are in Illinois, doing a very good business. . . .
New York Clipper, July 26, 1902, pp. 473, 475. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Bonheur Bros.' Show Notes. The show continues to do a land office business, as of yore. Will Phelps, athlete, visited the show and spent a pleasant day with its propritors at Lyons, Kan., is making arrangements to take charge of the annes J. R. Bonheur is thinking of putting on. Mr. Phelps is a door talker and an expert Indian club juggler, and is at home in athletic feats requiring display of lightning quickness and strength, and would be a useful man with the show. The weather is again pleasant, and business is growing better all the time.
The Circus property of Rice, Cooper & O'Brien Shows, J. L. ___, manager, which had been sold at constable's sale June 30, was purchased by H. W. Chamberlin, attorney, and James Ebersole (formerly band master with the Rice, Cooper & O'Brien Shows), and sold by them at private sale, the net proceeds being divided among the employees per ratio.
H. R. Moore resigned recently as special agent of the Campblee Bros.' Shows, and is now hat his home in Watertown, Wis. He was compelled to retire from active work because he suffered so acutely from lumbago.
Fred Smith, late stage manager of the Palace Theatre, Manchester, N.H., has joined Billy Nelson's Side Show with Pawnee Bill's Wild West.
New York Clipper, August 2, 1902, p. 493. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Roster of advertising car No. 1, Howe's Great London Shows. W. S. Dunnington, manager and press agent; Harry ___, boss bill poster; S. W. Ray, assistant boss bill poster; E. N. (Tony) Clarke, lithographer; Cliff Guy, lithograph boards; Wm. Gee, programmer. Bill posters: ___, Louis Henry, David Nyhan, A. Carnagie, Wm. Ross, Andrew Hartman, Ike Kelton [Kellon?], Sam McFarland, George Wells, Henry Wheatmore and Otto Klein.
Geo Beckley, the veteran and well known circus agent and theatrical manager, has resigned his position as manager of advance car No. 2, Walter L. Main Shows, to accept a more lucrative position. . . .
Lee Bruce, a teamster of Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Circus, was shot and killed by Dennis Bowen, a watchman with the show, afternoon of July 21. Bowen had drawn his revolver and fired several shots at J. K. Shumate, the superintendent of horses, and Bruce was struck in the heart by one of the stray bullets. Shumate stated that he had rebuked Bowen for wasting fodder. The victim, Lee Bruce, lived in Zanesville, O.
New York Clipper, August 9, 1902, p. 512. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Buffalo Bill's "Ad" car, No. 1. On the morning of July 24, at 1:35 a.m., while traveling at the rate of forty miles per hour on the Portland special from Spokane, there was discovered in the rear end of the car by William Goslin, who immediately shouted "fire" and aroused everyone, and we tumbled out of our berths, all anxious to reach the open air. Oliver Lester, our head bill poster, grabbed the emergency cord and pulled it until the train came to a stop, and there were hurried exits from the O. P. and prompt sides, and by the time we had reached the sage brush the car was a roaring furnace. The only man of the twenty-six who saved anything was George Fraser, who escapted with his barber shop, and was ready for business in the morning light. Notwithstanding the loss of our wearing apparel, we were thankful for our lives. Had we been aroused five minutes later, not one would have been left to tell the tale. The loss of the car and printing will be very heavy. In spite of the calamity it was laughable to see some of the boys with overalls and trousers which were sizes too large, for some of us only escaped in our underclothes, and were wrapped in sheets that were pulled from the car in the excitement. Deagen, who weighs 266 pounds, was wearing a pair of Doc Epperson's overalls. Doc, by the way, only weighs 120 pounds, and is 5ft high. Koster reminded one of "Happy Hooligan" with a pair of cuffs on for a hat. Harvey Long, our boss lithographer, had a suit "a la Lew Dockstader." Some of the members simply had a sweet smile. Secor had on a pair of overalls and a couple of gunny sacks for shoes. Only one or two of us were able to obtain shoes. Harry Hebrank had an automobile coat, which he dug up somewhere, and Uncle Doc Epperson had a Kimona, and with such apparel we entered Portland, Ore. Once there we lost no time and started in working at once. Mr. Hedges, our manager, furnished us with money, when we immediately raided a clothing hourse and were refitted. Jno Claire, the "Strawberry blone," became so excited he wanted to programme the Indian Tepees. Considering the seriousness of the affair the boys took it philosophically. The roster of the car at the time was Henry Hedges, car manager; Frank O'Donnell, press agent; Oliver Lester, boss bill poster, Harvey Long, boss lithographer; bill posters Doc Epperson, Geo. Fraser, Geo. Tinkham, Jno Sullivan, Jack Lindsay, Jno Deagon, Zike Inman, G. Ordway, W. Webb, J. Eisle, W. Goslin, C. Reed, M. Harris and Steve Dwyer. Lithographers Wm. Dupont, G. Koster, G. J. ___, W. Clegg, Harry Bryant, chef, Harry Hebrink, waiter, Walter Hewitt, porter, John Clare, programmer.
Roster of advertising car No. 2, Walter L. Main Big Fashion Plate Shows: Fred J. Bates, car manager; Frank Tracy, excursion agent; J. C. Bartlett, special agent; J. E. Garvey, lithographer; W. Jones, boss bill poster; Fred Parkeson, Frank J. Short, O. P. Buff, J. F. Fitzgerald, Geo. Caron, A. B. Christie, F. E. Melon, Luke Filson and Donald Garvie, bill posters.
Notes from the Welsh Bros.' "Newest Great." Big business continues. Long Island was S. R. O. at every performance. We have added two elephants and a cage of dens. At Glen Cove President Roosevelt's children attended the matinee. On the same day the two lion cubs were born, which were named "Archie" and "Teddie." At Huntington we had for visitors Messrs. Rudolph & Church, of the Courier Co.; Harry Morris, Rice and Barton, Harry Bryant, John Kernell and Royer West. W. Kohler, treasurer of the Cambria Theatre, Johnstown, Pa., spent his vacation with us this season. On July 27 our band was especially engaged to accompany the excursion on the steamer Orient from Sag Harbor to New London, Conn. The band now numbers twenty men, and is making an extraordinary big success. Thos. Crahan and W. L. Simmons are recent additions to the band. During our sojourn near the metropolis Sunday visits to Coney Island and Far Rockaway are in order.
The big Colonial house, at Rye, N.Y., of John J. Drake, one of the pioneer showmen of the United States, formerly a partner of Van Amburg, was burned July 25. Mr. Drake, who is eighty years old; his housekeeper, Mrs. Julia Healy, and the housekeeper's niece, Miss Healy, of Syracuse, who was visiting her, were carried down a ladder. Miss Healy died shortly afterward. Mr. Drake had lived there for half a century, and the house was filled with curios that he had gathered. The loss is estimated at about ___.
The Walter L. Main Fashion Plate Show notes. This week will terminate for the present our tour through the Eastern states, but we leave behind a reputation that will well make it extremely hazardous for any tented exhibition that cannot make good to follow in its wake. . . . In Boston twelve performances were given, and eight, including the opening night, were turnaways. No show ever made a similar record in the City of Culture before. . . . In Providence Mr. Main celebrated his birthday, and the company enjoyed an outing at his expense at Crescent Park. . . . The outing took place on Sunday, and the following day a sumptuous dinner was served in the cook tent, and in the evening the executive staff was entertained in the dining car. A number of pretty speeches were made, and Mr. Main was the recipient of many tokens. In Boston he received a handsomely engraved set of congratulations, bearing the autographs of the entire company. It was handsomely framed, and now adorns his private car. In Newport the elite of that fashionable watering resort turned out en masse and attended the afternoon show. . . . In Montpelier, Vt., a box party of thirty, in which Admiral Clarke and daughter, Miss Dewey, Mayor J. M. Botwell, Secretary of State Fred Howland, Mrs. Botwell, Dr. Clarke and Admiral Dewey's brother were the central figues, attended the afternoon performance Wednesday of last week. The box was handsomely draped in American colors, and the distinguished party were generous n the applause at the artists' efforts. At the evening performance the Shriners from Barre adn Montpelier visited the show in a body to the number of nearly two hundred. In all, the Eastern trip has been a memorable one.
Notes from the Mighty Haag Shows. We have been touring Arkansas and the territories for the last twelve weeks, and have played to capacity business, only losing one day this season. Our parade, consisting of three big bands, a number of mounted people, and twenty-one glittering chariots, tableaux, and cages of animals, never fails to bring the people to the grounds, and we do the rest. Frank McGuyre, after a six weeks' tour with the Sipe shows, has returned to his old position as treasurer and adjuster. We have all the people in the dressing room that opened with us at Lecompte, La., March 5, and everyone seems to be well satisfied, as we all stop at the best hotels, and the man in white never fails to perambulate every Sunday.
The Pan-American Shows and European Menagerie notes. We are touring the province of Ontario, Canada, and will make twenty-five stands in the Dominion. Everything is running smoothly, and business is fine.
Notes from Cap. Stewart's Big 10 and 20 Cent Show. We are in the gas and oil fields of Indiana, playing to the capacity of our tents nightly. Some of the people have been replaced by others. Mr. and Mrs. Osker and Mattie ___ joined at Swayzee, Ind., July 23. Billy and Mart Long joined us at Sweetser, to play tuba and baritone in band. Ed. Walker joined at Meir, to play cornet and violin. We expect to remain in the gas and oil fields all Fall. Cap. Stewart expects to put out a "Tom" and "Ten Nights" show the coming winter.
New York Clipper, August 16, 1902, pp. 534, 539. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Rays from Sun Bros.' Progressive Shows.
"They'll eat you up in this here town,
They'll tear your gul derned circus down,
So spoke a man with heavy head.
The 'main guy' winked, and simply said,
'Hey, Rube!' " - Wm. Devere.
The first "clem" of the season came with a big bluff. The bluff was called. Three physicians and a few pounds of bandages, to say nothing of large quantities of Perry Davis' pain killer, and Lester's star jolly liniament, were pressed into immediate use. It happend at Murray City, O. The town youths were inclined to be a little scrappy in the afternoon, but nothing serious occurred. At the night show the canvas was packed to the ring bank, and then the trouble began. Every man around the top was "well fixed" for what they expected would take place. The mob began the trouble by cutting the canvas and guy ropes. The show people stalled them off the best way they could, as they were outnumbered 20 to 1. The show was finally over and the concert finished, and the boys then felt safe. Al. Lynch, the privilege man, was about to take down his candy stand, when he was surrounded by about 150 or 200 men, some of whom were half drunk. They drank up the lemonade, took his popcorn and pulled his top over his head. All the the performers and musicians had left the lot, with the exception of Dan Lester, Mike Rixford, Harry Bell and Capt. Leo Collins, all of the latter having worked in the concert. The governor, Geo. Sun, with the treasurer and private secretary (S. Edw. Corbett), were sitting in their surrey, just ready to start for the hotel, and word was quickly sent back to the gang of the trouble at the stand. A long, shrill whistle from Leo Collins was answered by the canvas men, "Hey, Rube!" It was echoed and re-echoed. Fifty men came tearing across the lot. Ed. Corbett jumped from the governor's surrey, and with his own revolver in one hand and the Gov's in the other, joined the gang. Leo Collins yelled "At 'em, boys!" and at 'em it was. Lynch picked up a stake and felled a big negro, who had been a leader. The mob made a stand for a few minutes, but stakes and talpins are great persuaders, and they finally broke and ran. Seven of the townspeople lay on the lot. Harry Thornton, a groom, and John Lay, a canvas man, were unconscious. Mike Rixford had a painful cut over his left eye, and Johnny Parker was struck in the side of the neck with a rock. By that time the drivers had been awakened and re-enforced the others. The show people retired a safe distance. They took their wounded comrades away, and the show was packed up without further interference. It moved to the next town as though nothing had happened, but it is dollars to doughnuts that the people of Murray City will in the future steer clear of Sun Bros. and their people who responded to a man to that magic work, "Hey, Rube!"
Notes from the Great Pan-Amerian Circus and European Menagerie. We are in Canada, playing to fine business in the Province of Ontario. Several changes have been made in the advance lately: advertising car No. 1 is under the management of Chas. Ellis; E. Smith, in charge of paper; Ike Worth, programmer; A. Walker, programmer and W. Swan, S. Mosher, W. Miller, H. Joyce, R. F. Katx, D. Mann and Bert McKay, bill posters. Joe Cathcart has charge of advertising car No. 2, with two assistants.
Alfred Honey, horizontal bar performer, formerly of Honey and Murphy, is in New York on a visit, and returns to South America in about three or four weeks to rejoin the Quiroz Circus, with which he has been for the past year. He speaks highly of that country and its people. Julio F. Quiroz, proprietor and manager of the Quiroz Grand Circus, of Chili, is in New York City on business connected with the show.
Manager Ed. Slack sends the following: "A new show is being organized at Fairmont, W. Va., to take the road in the Spring. It is to be known as the Radcliff, Meredith & Slack Great Three Car Hippodrome, Menagerie and Wild West. The promoters are: Charles Radcliffe, director of privileges; Ed. E. Meredith, equestrian director; and Ed. Slack, director of transportation. Col. Grant Shurtleff, well known in Western show circles, will do advance, with four assistants; "Doctor" George E. ___ will officiate as master of the whip; J. J. E. Hopkins will be press representative. Three cars are being build especially for the company. About one hundred people and twenty-five horses and ponies will be carried. The circuit to be covered by the show will include all principal points in West Virginia, Virginia, Western Pennsylvania, Ohio and Tennessee. The show will be under canvas, the seating capacity of the tent being 2,500. The winter quarters of the show will be on Radcliff's farm, about two miles from Fairmont, W. Va., where training has already begun. Agents are now securing the menagerie, which will not be large, but complete. A side show will be a feature."
Notes from Gentry Bros.' Pullman Palace advertising car, in advance of their No. 2 show. This car is a beauty, and has won many favorable remarks along the line of its travel. The car is under the management of W. C. St. Clair, with ten assistants, and these clever hustlers have so far managed to distribute an unlimited amount of their special pictorial printing, which delights the hearts of the little folks, who immediately begin to look forward with much interest for "Gentry's Day." The advance department is under the management of Jno. L. Clennan, contracting agent, with W. C. St. Clair, managers advertising car; ___ Stone, boss bill poster; L. C. Mason, assistant bill poster; Jack Morris, litho board man; Wm. Tuich, assistant; Fred Reed, banner man; J. R. Miecel, assistant; L. Carpenter, lithographer; W. H. Weir, assistant.
Notes from the Great Buffalo and Wild West Shows United. Business has been uniformly good despite inclement weather. The show has been refitted and greatly augmented. Manager Geo. L. Hutchin intends invading Old Mexico with his big Wild West Aggregation, en route to California. His herd of wild buffalo is proving a tremendous drawing card. The roster: Col. Jno. P. Dyar, general agent; Lew C. Cullins, assistant agent; W. C. Harding, boss bill poster; W. T. D. (Billy) Courtright, lithographer, and Chas. Simpson, Temple Witham, Floyd ___, Chas.Mullen, Nat McCormick, Wm. Lonsberger, Geo. Gregory, "Rube" White, and Billy Creighton, bill posters.
Roster of car No. 2, Pawnee Bill's Wild West. P. W. Harrell, car manager; W. D. Green, boss bill poster; G. Baker, assistant; B. J. Layden, banner agent; J. Comte, assistant; ?. Coughlin, lithographer; F. Comte, programmer; bill posters - W. Wesner, W. W. Sham, J. Driver, H. Y. Pocket, H. P. Jones, John Brady, H. Smith.
Notes from Col. G. W. Hall's United Shows. We opened on Aug. 2 at Evansville, Wis., for a long season South, with the finest ten car show ever put on the road. All cars and cages are brand new, out of the shops of the Ringling Bros., at Baraboo, Wis. We have fifteen cages in all. Big Charley, the big elephant, is a hit in the ring. Our features are: Prof. Fred Macart's highly educated troupe of dogs and monkeys, Prof. Morris' troupe of ponies, the Great Girard Leon and his happy family of donkeys, and the funny singing donkey, "Kid Rose," with many other good features, making an extra strong ring show. The colonel is very happy and pround. He put out a show second to none, and turned it over to his staff, saying, "I will go along and have a good time" - which the colonel is having. . . .
Notes from Hall & Sample's United Shows. It is harvest time where we are now and business is not quite as good as it was, but can still be called fair. Mr. Hall, one of the managers was taken very ill at Green Isle. He made the jump to Arlington, where he was worse, so we had to leave him. We received word that he was better, but do not know when he will be able to rejoin us. Baby Mina Fontinelle, on the tight wire, is making the success of the show. Robt. Campbell, musician, joined us at Gibbon, Minn., July 30.
The Order of Owl Club was organized with the Walter L. Main Shows, July 13, with the following charter members: W. F. Melrose, president; Wm. Silviniz, vice president; Wonderful Busch, secretary; James Burke, master of work; Wm. Martell, Wm. Alpine, Wm. Connors, Wm. Hart, Frank Eliett, One Half Stiner, Frank Aymar, the Great Fortune, Ed. Jenkins, Joe Garcenetti, Harry Wiebel, and Nick Howard.
Dexter and Gray joined Oatman & Hennessey's Circus and Carnival Co., Aug. 11, for the remainder of the season.
At Jackson, Mich., Aug. 4, the John Robinson Shows gave the first complete circus performance ever given, it is said, within the walls of a State prison. . . .
Notes from Haag Shows. The season has been exceptionally good up to date. The show opened March _, and closes about Christmas at Shreveport, La., where we have constructed new and comfortable quarters. The only mishap of note, so far, happened at Wichita Falls, Tex., July 30. While our agent, Jas. M. Robinson, was back with the show, a Bengal tiger escaped from his den through carelessness of a keeper. Mr. Robinson being close by managed to throw a sack over the animal, but in trying to hold him down had his left arm badly torn, causing much pain for many days, but has gone to the front again.
New York Clipper, August 23, 1902, p. 555. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The sensational feat of "looping the loop" is by no means as novel in principle as people seem to think, according to a letter which has appeared in one of the dailies here. "It must be fifty-five years," the writer says, "since I saw it carried out in the zoological gardens, or similar gardens, at Liverpool, and I incline to the belief that I was taken to see it the following year in Dublin. The apparatus then consisted of a pair of apparently ordinary rails, descending from a high platform, while the performer sat in a low car on four wheels, fitting the rails rather tightly. I can well remember a discussion between my father and a friend of his as to the point whether the friction ought not to overcome the impetus. Whatever the theory the fact remained that the car went alternately from one platform to the other, the performer being in midcareer head downwards. . . . "
New York Clipper, August 30, 1902, pp. 578, 586. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes and roster of Sam Dock's Keystone Shows. Sam Dock, manager; Jas. Musselman, superintendent; Wm. Gross, boss hostler; H. O. Cunningham, advance representative. Performers: Harry Jarrette, Erwin Zeck, Frank Clouse, Clair Dock, Ammon Musselman, Albert Katerman, Sadie Dock, and Sam Dock's trained ponies, donkeys and dogs. Musicians: E. E. Tidler, Chas. Byers, Hugh Sites, Geo. Jones, Bill Gross and C. Zech. On Aug. 21 we will raise a brand new tent and marque, and will enlarge the show for a long season South, working the larger cities, at popular prices. Business has been very good this season, and the weather excellent.
Notes from J. H. Margon's Railroad Combined Shows. We have done a large business since our opening in Lexington, Ind. Everybody is happy and enjoying health. We are carrying sixty people with the show. The roster: J. H. Margon, proprietor and manager; Ed. Margon, treasurer; W. H. Quaife, in advance; Annie Curl, auditor; dressing room people - Windy Murry, light and heavy balancer; Ed. Margon, black face, Dutch and Irish comedian; Shurman and Farrall, aerialst; Happy Jack, the old time clown; Curl Sisters, Minnie and Clara, contortionists and double traps; Roy Fortune, one legged slack wire, juggling and incline ladder; May Anderson, outside high wire; Pearl Sutherland, Spanish slide for life; Ethel Smith, Spanish webs and flying rings; W. S. ___, equestrian director; concert - H. D. Fairali, musical; G. Shuman, black face song and dance; Curl Sisters, cake walkers; Roy Fortune, one legged song and dance; side show under management of Roy Fortune - Tonigo, South African snake eater; Will Davis, magician; Ed. Ellis, strong man, and London Punch and Judy, with never fails to please the young and old. The band of seven mouth pieces is under the leadership of Frank Clark; Geo. Muller, alto; W. F. Quaife, baritone; Geo. Parker, tuba; Frank Shoemaker, slide trombone; Ed. Trieman, clarionet; Chas. Stanley, cornet; and Joe Kelly, trap drums. We are touring Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, Colorado, New Mexico and California, and will play along the Western coast all winter, then work North in the Spring. The "ghost" never fails . . .
Ernest Albright writes: "I closed with Buckskin Bill's Wild West at Carrolton, Mo., Aug. 4.
Mrs. W. J. Doris has returned to the Buckskin Bill Show, after burying her young daughter, Ethel.
When the Forepaugh-Sells Circus disbands for the winter the organization will lose its treasurer, Will T. Spaeth, who will organize "A Run for Her Money," which will play at popular priced theatres.
Wm., Mlle. and Kitty May Irwin recently joined Busby Bros.' Big Circus. Among the many features is Mlle. Irwin in her iron jaw act.
Magee and Dale are in their eleventh week with Walter L. Main's Circus, and report meeting with success.
Robbs and Powell closed with the John Robinson Shows July 15, and joined the Ringling Bros.' Circus July 16, to do clowning and their black face act in the concert.
Natalie, Plamondon and Amondo, pantomimists, report success with Ringling Bros.' Shows. They are producing many novelties in clowning.
Bolossy Kiralfy has signed contracts with James A. Bailey, under which he will make a spectacular production for the American tour of the Barnum & Bailey Circus next Spring.
Senor Julio Quiroz, of South America, is in New York, on business connected with his circus.
John Price, an employee of Ringling Bros.' Circus, fell from the circus train about three miles west of Pocatello, Idaho, on Aug. 9, and was killed. His home was at Kerwin, Kan.
Notes from Buckskin Bill's Wild West. Mrs. Henry E. Aliott takes the pasteboards at the door, and makes numerous friends at every stand by her courteous treatment and affable manner. Harry W. Semon has arranged for the show to exhibit in all the important towns and cities of the Lone Star State. Henry E. Aliott [Allott?] (Bunk Allen), one of the proprietors, and also the manager of this show, and wife contemplate a trip to Europe at the close of the season. John Reynolds has succeeded William J. Dorris as manager of the privileges. The show has done a good business since it crossed the Missouri River. At Leavenworth, Kan., following two days after the Campbell Bros.' Show, they played to enormous business, and although Buckskin Bill has done some very large business, Leavenworth proved to be the banner day of the season. . . . J. C. O'Brien is no longer interested in the show, his interest having been purchased by Val. Hoffman. An entire new spread of canvas will be used for the first time by this show at Great Bend, Kan., Aug. 25. Next season the show will be enlarged to twice its present size. Manager Aliott [Allott?] says he will expend at least $20,000 on improvements. Tambourine McCarty is the latest addition to the concert. The proprietors, so well pleased with the railroad contracts for their tour of Texas, made by Mr. Semon, their general agent, have presented him with a substantial purse as a token of their appreciation.
The La Von Bros. write: "Our work at Adel, Ia., July 4, was liked so well that we were awarded the contract to furnish a one ring circus performance as the special attraction for Dallas Fair, at Adel, Ia., Sept. 16 to 19. In answer to our Clipper ad, we received about forty letters, and have booked the following people: Brandon and Regene, double Roman rings and contortion acts; Rosenella, swinging sailor perch and flying single trapeze; Hooper Bros., perpendicular 'cycle whirl; Fay, sword walking and sword swallowing, and La Von Bros., double trapeze and revolving ladder.
New York Clipper, September 6, 1902, p. 602. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Col. Geo. W. Hall writes: "Business is keeping up fine. Our season will be very long, as this show stands second to none in the sunny South. Leon Morris and his educated troupe of dogs and ponies, and the Great Gerard Leon cause an uproar of laughter daily. The ring performance is extra strong. W. B. Reynolds is surely doing fine work in advance. All is well."
A report comes from Kansas City, Mo., to the effect that a combination has been formed by Forepaugh & Sells Brothers' Circus, the Buffalo Bill Wild West aggregation, and the Barnum & Bailey Shows, and henceforth all three are to be managed by the Barnum & Bailey Co., Limited, of London, Eng. Each company retains its individuality, and the idea is to have one of the big shows in the United States each year, one in Great Britain, and one on the continent. The Barnum & Bailey Co., Limited, of London, intends to control the circus business of the continent and Great Britain, as well as to retain a strong hold upon the field in the United States. The first result of the merger will be to stop all fighting for territory.
Myron McPhearson, for many years trombone soloist with Ringling Bros.' Circus, has been summering at his old home, Carson City, Mich. He returns to Baraboo, Wis., Sept. _, to resume his work as painter and decorator for the Ringling Bros.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's New Big R. R. Shows. The show is in its eighteenth week, and business has been phenomenal, with strong opposition all through the East. We have been packing them in daily, and, with storms and bad weather to contend with, the show has only lost one night performance this season. There are eighteen cars with the show. The maneagerie is a 90ft., with three 50ft. middle pieces; the big top, 150, with three 50's; the dressing room a 60, with a 40; side show, 70ft., with one __, and the new horse tent is a 100, with a 50. The show is a beauty, all new and up to date. Roster: Sig. Sautelle, sole proprietor; Frank A. Robbins, general manager; Harry Strouse, press agent; H. Shallcross, manager of privileges; James Shipman and Mrs. Sautelle, front door; Col Parker, manager of the culinary department; Chas. Jackson, mail man; reserve seat ticket sellers, W. P. Hope, Edward Stokes and Harry Strouse; outside tickets, T. J. Tarbon. Big show: Chas. Ewers, equestrian director; Prof. Watson, assistant equestrian director; Prof. G. Yannetti and solo concert band of eighteen pieces. Performers: Three Valentines, aerial return act; Chas. Ewers, bounding jockey; Jennie Ewers, principal act; Chas. Watson, hurdle and four horse act; Dennis and Martel, double traps and revolving ladder; Ella Valenteene, single traps; Chas. Jackson, contortionist; James Hart, aerial bars and backward dive; El Nino Eddie, bounding rope; Three Herbert Bros., acrobats and stilts; El Zano [Zauo?], menage act, and his trick pony Billy; Chas. Valenteene, high wire; John Deer, Indian rider; Chas. Newton, Chas. Goodwin, Joe ___, and French, our jesters, make good. Chas. Ewers' wonderful troupe of trained ponies. Our cowboys, Nebraska Bill, Texas Smith, Broncho Charlie and Texas Smith, with Leaping Fawn and Ella Lightful, make them yell on our hippodrome track. Tom Nickols is ringmaster. The show concludes with some of the best races ever seen under a canvas. The concert comprises some A1 vaudeville talent, especially the Thorpe Sisters, serio comics, and Nebraska Bill and Leaping Fawn, in an impalement act. Side show: Lou Nickols, managers; Art. Millard, door tender; James Morrow and Chas. Smith, as all day grinders; Prof. Charm, magic and Punch; O. W. Courtney (Happy Hooligan), tramp juggler; Mme. Leland, mind reader; Eva Lamar, bag puncher; Edith Monroe, sword dancer; Geo. Melvin, tattooed man; Castlelain Sisters, serio comics; Little Pete, dancing pickaninny; Lady Zelda, snake charmer; Millie Zeleke, Circassian, and Grace Hamilton, cornettist. Wm. (Shanty) Parker, boss canvas; J. Halpin and Harry Monroe, assistants, with thirty men; Mark Monroe, boss animal man, with six men; Frank Smith, boss hostler, with thirty-eight men; Yellow Hartzell, charge of side show canvs, with six men; Louie Lutz, charge of horse tents, with five men, and Dave Kitchel, boss property man, with ten men. The show has 141 horses and ponies, and ___ people. Our menagerie consists of 23 cages, 3 elephants, 2 camels, elk and sacred cattle. The parade is a feature, and makes the people talk all along the one. The ladies of the Holy Club gave an ice cream and cake social Aug. 14 that was enjoyed by all. President, Ella Valenteene; treasurer, Jennie Ewers; entertaining committee: Ada and Rubie Thorpe, Lena McDoanld and Carrie Miller. We must give the Misses Ewers, Valenteene and Thorpe special praise for the way they served. The demand was great, but the supply was greater. The advance: Frank A. Robbins, general agent; David Haley, contracting agent; B. K. Wilber, agent car No. 1, with eighteen men; Al. Foster, manager second brigade, with six men.
New York Clipper, September 13, 1902, p. 630. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Chas. A. Koster, circus lithographer and banner man, has closed with the No. 1 advance car of the Buffalo Bill Show, and is laying off at his home, Bellefontaine, O. Mr. Koster will be second advance for a well known minstrel show this season, and will, next season, have the lithographs with the Barnum & Bailey Shows.
Busby Bros.' Circus reports doing a land office business in Iowa, and is now packing them in twice a day in Illinois.
Chas. Arnold, aerialist, has signed with Williams' Great Northern Railroad Shows for the winter season, through the South, having closed with Prof. R. V. Hall's Gondola Shows.
Bonheur Bros.' Show notes. On Aug. 30, at Dexter, Kan., while the show was in full progress, a cyclone swept over the town straight to the show lots. It dipped down on the big top and hurled the tent, with its big quarter poles, high over the heads of the audience, which filled the tent to the capacity of the seats. The quarter poles cleared the seats without hurting anyone, and the heavy cnetre poles fell on the seats, with the gasoline lamps still burning, which enabled the people to see how to dodge from under the poles. The canvas, being inflated by the wind, allowed the centre poles to descend with less velocity. All the quarter poles on the east side were the ones that cleared the seats. They fell into a yard just opposite the show lots. The storm clouds had been forming all evening, and it was a wonder people came out as they did, to the capacity of the tents, as every one must have known that a storm was imminent. The audience enjoyed the show up to the moment of the blow down; then they were seized with a panic and many were knocked down and trampled upon in the rush to gain a place of safety from the flying poles and the flames of gasoline, that everyone expected would break out in the canvas and add the terror of fire to the calamity. The wonder is that anyone escaped without severe injuries. The bruises and burns were slight indeed, compared to the scare. Mary Barriers, of Dexter, received a bruise on the head from a flying side pole; Wylie Scott, Clyde Shaw and Robert Ingers were hurt by poles falling on them; James Jackson was hit on the head by a dangling stake attached to a guy pole; Doyle Greenwell, a boy of nine, was knocked down, but not seriously hurt. Several were trampled upon. A young lady had her neck scorched by a flying rope. T. T. Rucker, of Dexter, in a heroic attempt to put out a gasoline fire that sprang up after the tent fell, severely burned both his hands. Mr. Rucker gave valuable assistance to the showmen during the excitement, and ran the risk of setting fire to his clothing in extinguishing the flames. Immediately after the accident, rain fell in torrents and prevented further damage from fire. The disaster was the sole topic of talk the next day, it being Sunday. It was even discussed in the churches. Members of the show who were slightly injured by the poles and flying missiles were: Mauce Brennan, Edward Brenna, Frank Yates, Baxter Johnson, Al. Baugh, Mike Fay, Lawrence Sullivan, Harley Way, William Showalter, Gilbert Murray, Clarence Laflower, John Wyatt and others. All took their injuries good naturedly, and felt thankful that they were no worse. It was a very lucky termination to a frightful accident. The show reached Cedarvale over the worst hills traversed this season, the rain making the black mud ball up on the wheels, and the jutting rocks in the road almost overturning the wagons.
Notes from Hunt's Vaudeville Circus. This show opened its season at Kingston, N.Y., July 1, to a packed house, and business has run from fair to turn aways, in spite of a cold and rainy season. We have lost only one performance to date. Our seats went down at Haines' Corners adn Pine Hill under immense crowds, but luckily no one was injured. On Aug. 17 we were obliged to ford the east branch of the Delaware River at Shavertown, on account of the bridge being washed away by a recent cloud burst. We have twelve more stands in the mountain resorts, after which we will cross the Hudson River and play the factory towns in Connecticut and Massachusetts for the remainder of the season, which will run until Oct. 15. We have made only two changes in the roster since our opening date. Roster at present: Chas. T. and John Hunt, owners and managers; Geo. M. Legg, advance; Carl Haring, leader of band, with six men; E. E. Baker, leader of orchestra, with three men; Mrs. C. T. and J. Hunt, in charge of refreshment stands; Blinker Smith, boss hostler; Leslie Finkle, chef of Hotel de Hunt. Performers: Chas. T. Hunt, Mrs. Chas. Hunt, Chit Ostrander, Mlle. Bertina, J. H. Corey, Charley Smith, and Hunt and Ostrander. Next season will see this show a full fledged twenty-five cent circus, with every bit of canvas brand new and much larger than this season.
Tom, Babe adn Fred, novelty acrobats, are with Otto Floto's Trained Animal Shows, a special feature for their Chicago engagement.
Mrs. Wm. Davis has the privilege car with Buckskin Bill's Show, and Jno. W. Reynolds is her manager.
Notes from Lucky Bill's Show. The show is doing a nice business, but has had bad weather. Lucky Bill met with a severe accident while performing with the Shetland ponies; one of them kicked him, breaking two ribs. We found a man dead in front of our canvas one morning, shot through the head; no one knew anything about it. He was a stranger in these parts. Lucky Bill has added a troupe of trained mountain lions which are a great hit with the natives. The Tusons are still pleasing the people with their fancy rifle shooting. Mrs. May, our orchestra leader, is taking a vacation, but will return soon. The natives turn out to see our daily street parade with our herd of buffaloes and cow punchers. We are pulling South for our winter quarters. Varnum and Ostman, acrobats, closed Aug. 30, to fill fair dates, at Mandam, N.D. They will join again. The show is greatly improved. The Tusons have purchased new quarters at Selina, Kan.
New York Clipper, September 20, 1902, p. 657. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Busby Bros.' Show. We are in our twenty-first week, and business has been phenomenal. With the usual opposition that all shows encounter throughout Indiana, Illinois and Iowa, being surrounded by the large shows for the last six weeks, with five weeks of bad and stormy weather during the early part of the season, still the show has lost but three performances. At Pendleton, Ind., May 6, we experienced a very heavy gale, which carried away our dressing room top. It was so badly damaged that it was necessary to purchase a new ___ top. The large top was saved from much damage by the heroic efforts of a large force of workingmen. On Sept. 6, after the night performance, a large tank of gasoline exploded, and for a few minutes it threatened to burn the whole top, but by hard work on the part of bos canvas man Peter Kennedy, and his assistants, they managed to subdue the flames. Mr. Kennedy and assistant, James Wilbur, were left to fight the flames alone, as the rest of the workingmen fled for their lives. These two gentlemen were slightly burned. As it happened, the management had an 80ft. top, with two 40ft. middle pieces, at their winter quarters, Pana, Ill. This show carries a 76ft. baggage car, also a Pullman sleeper and dining car; have an 80ft. round top, with two 40ft. middle pieces; dressing room tent, __ by 30; horse tent, 40 by 20, twenty head of horses, which transport the show from the cars to the lot. Following is a complete roster of the show: J. M. Busby, Earl Busby, Burt Busby, owners; J. M. Busby, manager; Earl Busby, general agent; Frank V. Dalton, in charge of brigade No. 1, with the following men: E. E. Garretson, Chas. Snittle, Geo. Edwards, and Clarence White; Mrs. J. M. Busby, purchasing agent and manager of privileges; Alvah ___, secretary and treasurer; Harry Dalton in charge of front door; Burt Busby, in charge of reserved seats and concert tickets, with Bert Carrol and F. "Whitey" Howard as assistant, and Prof. Edward Long, equestrian director, and the following performers: William Irwin, head balancing and perch; Millie Irwin, iron jaw and club swinging; Kitty May Irwin, contortionist; John T. Carrier, triple bars and foot juggling; Capt. Johnnie Reiley, baton manipulator and gun juggler; Beall Family, cannon ball jugglers and heavy weight balancing; Arthur ___, bounding rope and principal clown; Prof. Ed. Long, with his troupe of trained dogs and ponies; Edwards and ___, knockabout clowns. . . . Prof. Ed. Dayworth, director of the band, with the following musicians: Harry Dalton, Ed. Long, H. M. Ewing, Cal Davenport; W. J. Whalen, ___ Hart, Vester Erhart, Chas. ___, W. Abbot, George Miles, and Bert Miller. Peter J. Kennedy, boss canvas man, with fifteen men; J. H. Thompson, boss hostler, with four men; Chris ___, boss props with five men; Carl M. ___, dog boy; "Whitey" Howard, master of transportation; Geo. Givens, charge of cook house, with three assistants; Mrs. Lillian Skelton, charge of dining car; Willie Hicks, porter, and Ray Harman, waiter. Millie Irwin is the feature of the big show. Kittie May Irwin also deserves mention for her contortion turn, which never fails to please the little folks. In fact, we have some of the strongest feature acts of any twenty-five cent show on the road.
John H. Sparks' Show notes. The John H. Sparks Show was in a wreck at ___, Ind., on the night of Sept. _, through the carelessness of the employees of the Big _ road, on to which the show had been transferred. The train crew was making a switch on the show cars from the siding on the main line, and in some manner the cars got beyond the control of the brakemen, and went crashing into some box cars, smashing in the end of the sleeping car and throwing everybody out of bed. John Henry and Jack Mitchell were both severely injured. Mr. Heny having both legs broken and being injured internally, from which he died Sept. _, at ___, Ind. Mr. Mitchell has a had cut on the leg, which will lay him up for some time. Several of the working men were cut and bruised so badly that medical attention was necessary. But for th timely arrival of manager Chas. Sparks, the train crew would have been very roughly handled by members of the show, and his presence was the only thing that saved them from a good beating.
The Leonard Bros. have signed with the Barnum & Bailey Show for the American tour of 1903.
The Freeze Bros. are touring Switzerland with the Barnum & Bailey Circus.
Notes from Pawnee Bill's Wild West. This show, under the management of Billy Nelson, has had a most successful season. The star attractions are: Eugene Beny, big ___ boy; Esau, the snake eater; and Tillie Norton, water queen. Morris Quinlan's one man band is the outside attraction; Doc Quiney, boss hostler, while Billy Nelson and Ed. Murray look after the tickets. After the show closes we go to the coast, with a street carnival company.
Sam Dock notes. Business has been all that could be desired. The new tents make quite a flash, and are very much admired. We followed the John Robinson Show at Waynesboro, Pa. and Hagerstown, Md., and turned them away in each town the second night. Billy Shouts has charge of reserve seats. Wm. Acker is making good with his stump speech. We intend to make a long season South.
Notes from Buffalo Wild West Shows United. We closed the season last week at Marshalltown, Ia., and have gone into winter quarters at Missoula, Mon. Ceaseless rain has made the season unprofitable for this company, which put up a very superior performance. Manager Geo. L. Hutchin will organize the show, and W. A. Simons, Frank B. Simons adn Chancy ___ will pilot the newly organized company next year. The proprietors are determined that it shall be one of the largest and best shows on earth. Manager Hutchin has planned a performance for next season that will be a world beater, if surface indications go for aught.
The Pan-American Shows and European Menagerie played Windsor, Can., Sept. 6, and crossed the line Sept. 7, into Butler, Ind., for Sept. 8. The roster ahead of the show is: W. J. Nichols, railroad contractor; Chas. Ellis, local contractor; Joe Cathcart, manager car No. 1, with fifteen assistants.
New York Clipper, September 27, 1902, pp. 667, 675. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Roster of concert with Sells & Downs' United Shows: Conklin and Clark, comedy musicians; Babe Prentis, buck and wing dancer; Harry Carson, Irish comique; Jennie Bentley, coon shouter; Winslow and Rawlins, knockabout song and dance; La Mont Sisters, skirt and serpentine dancers; George Atkinson, monologue; Cheatham's colored cake walkers and jubliee singers; and Prof. Park Prentis' orchestra. George Atkinson is stage manager.
Notes from the R. Z. Orton Family Show. We have got five weeks more of one of the worst seasons we have ever experienced for mud and water. Our horses are poor in flesh, but otherwise we have had a successful season. The management have about concluded to present a one car show next Spring. We were lucky to have the most of the show at winter quarters this Spring. The show was cut down so close that there is not one extra jack or upright with us.
Dr. J. E. Ogden joined the Sells & Ddowns Shows Sept. 10, in Stillwater, Okla., to take full management of the side show with that aggregation.
Beatrice Leslie has been engaged as a feature for H. W. Wilson's Big Oriental Show and Turkish Harem, with the Pawnee Bill's Wild West.
John M. Miller has closed the season as manager of Williams & Co.'s Great Northern R. R. Shows, and is resting at his home, Fort Madison, Ia.
The following members of the Sells & Downs Circus joined the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie No. 124, at Oklahoma City, Okla.: Sam D. Nelson, ___, T. E. McNew, Fred Robertson, Chas. Lumpking and Geo. Hanna. John L. Davenport is here with his son, Orrin Davenport, who is doing on a bareback horse, a truly wonderful act, it is said. Will D. Marks joined the show a few weeks ago. The circus is doing a big business.
Mamie Forepaugh closed with Welsh Bros.' Show Aug. 30, and is playing Harold Cox's circuit of fairs with her trapeze and ring act.
Fred Ledgett, of the Forepaugh-Sells Bros. Circus, announces his marriage at Havana, Ill., Sept. 7, to Dollie Julien, of that show.
Chas. and Grace Casad report meeting with success with the Great Pan-American Shows.
Bonheur Bros.' notes. The worst roads ever encountered by this show were recently crossed between Coyville and Toronto, in the hills of Wilson County, Kansas. Up in the heart of the hills, which might be called mountains, while descending a rocky ___, where the road had apparently not been worked to any great extent since the way was first cleared, a seat wagon was suddenly overturned. It was just where the road leads along the abrupt sides of a craggy hill, overlooking a deep gorge. The wheels of the heavy seat wagon, while descending under the guidance of a four horse driver, struck the crown of a projecting rock, and, as the wagon went over toward the gorge, Lawrence Sullivan, the driver, and Henry Crow, a little "Humpty Dumpty" clown, were hurled off the seat. The fall of the heavy wagon and its freight sent echoes reverberating among the glens, and the settlers' fox hounds bayed loudly in response, making music that might have pleased the ears of the burly drivers on the train of wagons in advaance if it had not signified delay and extra work, and perhaps some comrade buried under the load. Henry Crow, after rolling like a ball down among the iron weeds and golden rod that grew thickly under the jack oaks, suddenly fetched up against a bald rock. He got up rather dazed as John Wyatt, the superintendent of stock, climbed down to assist him. Always sober as an owl, the tiny clown, answering the question if he was hurt, "No, I ain't hurt a bit," said he, "but Lou's up there under the seat boards, dead I reckon." Everybody turned their attention to Sullivan. He had fortunately escaped injury, but had both his legs pinned against a jack oak tree by a portion of the load. The train of wagons was compelled to wait, and the performers had a chance to stroll a short distance in a bit of real primeval forest, and the man with the camera climbed up on the jack wagon and took a picture of the wreck in the roadway. When the wagon had been patched up and reloaded, the wagon train started down toward the narrow valley. An old settler, whose cabin stood at the base of the hill, came out and vouchsafed the information that there were even worse roads to be encountered before the show reached Toronto. However, Toronto was reached without furter accident. We turned them away, and could have again packed the tent for another day's exhibition.
Max Hugo, the clown, is portraying the character of Happy Hooligan with W. L. Main's Circus. . . .
C. N. Thompson, of Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus, sends the following letter, which we publish verbatim: "Poor Denny Bohan, for many years a night watchman with the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Shows, in an unfortunate moment became involved in a quarrel during the show's visit to Buffalo, which ended very disastrously to an innocent and disinterested party in an accidental manner. Bohan is about to stand trial in Buffalo, and his life and liberty are at stake, unless his many friends in the profession will come to his aid. Money is needed badly by poor Denny to engage counsel, and make a proper defense. Bohan is now, and has been since the unfortunate occurrence, confined in the Erie County jail, in Buffalo. It is hoped all his friends will rally to his aid at the earliest possible moment. All contributions to the defense fund should be sent to Charles N. Thompson, assistant manager, Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Shows, as per route in the Clipper."
Mamie Forepaugh, equestrienne, who was driving the cake walking horse and riding menage act with Welsh Bros.' Show, closed Aug. 30, to fill six weeks of fairs for Harold Cox.
Wonderful Busch, now with Walter L. Main's Circus, in his second season, is one of the bright lights of that show, he writes. He will begin his vaudeville bookings at an early date, and is booked solid until Jan. 12.
A message from Oklahoma City, O. T., states that three memebers of the Sells-Downs Circus company were killed and twenty-six injured in a rear end collision at Choctaw, sixteen miles east of there, at 5 o'clock, on the morning of Sept. 20. An east bound freight train ran into the circus train.
New York Clipper, October 4, 1902, p. 691. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Lucky Bill Show. We are in our twenty-fifth week, and business has been phenomenal. Although we have encountered bad weather, our canvas has been packed to S. R. O. We have lost only four performances since the beginning of our season. Our show is growing larger as we make for the South. The management intends running all winter, only taking a few weeks to remodel and trim up for next season. We now have the Grangers, musical team; also Prof. Cousins and his trained mountain lions. Lucky Bill had a narrow escape recently. One of the trained stallions kicked him, breaking a rib and laying him up for four days. We have a new top for our kid show, a 50ft. by 30ft. middle piece. William Newton is making a great hit with his Filipino band. Arthur Runion has his cow punchers out every day, riding bucking bronchos in the streets, which has proved a great feature. Following is the roster of the show: Lucky Bill, owner and manager; William Newton, equestrian director; Gus Williams and troupe of trained seals; the Grangers, musical team and acrobats; the Tusons, slack wire and rifle shots; Ruby Atkinson, soubrette and trapeze; Vanhousen, singing and talking clown, with royal marionettes; Arthur Runion, cow puncher, with his eight assistants; Prof. Knoles and his band of twelve pieces; Ed. White's troupe of ponies and dogs; Art Lyons, acrobat and juggler, and the Meloirs, statuary and head balancers. Burt Wilson has charge of the canvas, with eight assistants. The show will be enlarged as soon as we strike Lincoln, Neb., as a troupe of Arabs will join, also Peter ___, balloonist and trapeze.
Notes from Cap. Stewart's Big 10 and 20 Cent Circus. We opened at our home, Fort Wayne, Ind., April 27, to the capacity of our tents, and we have toured the states of Indiana, Ohio and Michigan. Although we have had lots of rain, wind storms and cold weather, we have not missed one salary day, and the books look well. This show has made money from the start to the closing, Sept. 20, at Liberty Center. We drove home to Fort Wayne and are clearing everything up and putting it away for the winter. Our stock is on the farm, in clover up to their knees. Chas. Azley, our local manager, has gone home to Duquoin, Ill.; J. C. Murphy, to Chicago; Mr. and Mrs. Guliver, to Elwood, Ind.; Sam McCarty, to Ari, Ind.; John Weaver, to Osgood, O.; Prof. Moll, to Adrian, Mich.; Prof. Brown, to Hudson, Mich.; Pete Young, to New Paris, Ind.; Tommy Barry to Denver, Ind.; Joe Wyatt, to Huntertown, Ind., and the rest are still here, "togging up" and getting ready to go home. Tom Clark will remain with us all winter and look after the stock. Cap. Stewart will put out a winter show in opera houses and halls in about four weeks and will travel by railroad. He will attend the Sipe Show sale Oct. _.
New York Clipper, October 11, 1902, p. 715. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Elberon Leland writes: "The Great Buffalo Wild West Shows, United, that closed recently in Iowa, are now in winter quarters at Missoula, Mont., reorganizing for the season of 1903. From $30,000 to $50,000 will be expended in refitting the show, and in preparing it for its next campaign. Manager Geo. L. Hutchin will go East in a few days to contract for the season's supply of paper, which the company has decided shall be the best ever. More buffaloes will be carried than were exhibited this season by the aggregation. It is hoped that rain will not be so plentiful next year."
New York Clipper, October 18, 1902, pp. 739, 740, 750, 753. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
A correspondnet sends this account of the recent Sells & Downs' Circus wreck. "The rear end collision occurred at Choctaw Station, on our run from El Reno, Okl., to Shawnee, Okl., an extra freight train, while we were standing still, completely telescoping Nos. 7 and 8 sleepers, full of our band, side show, musicians and working men, which were next to the caboose. The accident occurred at 4:30 a.m., on Sept. 20, and, half asleep and dazed, everybody was up and out of the car in an instant into the pouring rain. We hardly knew what to do, but stood there in terrified amazement, looking at the wreck. The two coaches were completely telescoped, making the length of the wreck about the length of one car, but Martin Downs cheered us along to hurry up and get the injured people out. We were rushing here and there for tools and implements to work with, but none were in the caboose, section house or station, so we had to fall back on the old stake and chain and cook house wagons. Where to start first was hard to tell. Everybody was crying and groaning, and all wanted to be taken out first. First of all we tore the siding off the car to give air and ventilation to those buried below. Then came the work of digging and prying out the wreck and extricating the injured, this being no easy matter. Those who were only slightly hurt managed to squeeze out of all kinds of small places, which threw a ray of comedy on the entire scene. It was laughable to see the way the uninjured people felt and bent their limbs to see for sure that they were all there. Wm. Sells' state room being at the rear end of the car, directly next to the caboose, the most dangerous place of all, had to be dough out of his predicament. The end of the car had smashed clean through car 7 and the partition that divided his room, jamming Mr. Sells and his bedstead up to the door. Mr. and Mrs. Downs were more fortunate, their state room being at the end of car 6, next to 7 and 8. Everything was done to alleviate the suffering people, whom we placed on cots and beds at the station and in different cars. By that time the two morning locals came along, bringing two doctors, who soon took care of the wounded and cheered them along. Rose Maretta was on the spot, and the other ladies helped. The wounded people were then placed in one of the local trains, and those that could sit up were placed in one of the coaches. The others who were seriously injured were laid on the floor in the baggage car and taken to the Oklahoma City Hospital, which luckily was only fourteen miles away. We had to go through Shawnee to S. McAlester, our Sunday and Monday's stand, which enabled us to settle up our contracted obligations. Everyone felt pretty gloomy over our friends being taken away, crippled and perhaps maimed for life, although such a providentially lucky wreck was never known in the history of circus wrecks. Only a few to be killed and injured is a miracle, considering the terrible telescope. The conductor, Dick Whiteman, in charge of our train, deserves great praise for his wonderful grit and fortitude. He was caught on the front end of his caboose by the platform rail, his leg being caught below. He hung there quite a time before we discovered him, his whole body and right leg hanging, there being no place to rest them. Different people took it in turns to hold him up while we hacked the end of the caboose to pieces in order to get him out, which took about an hour. Following is a list of the dead and wounded: Wm. Anderson, canvas man, killed (taken out suffocated by a mattress); Frank Pleasant, bass player, neck broken (killed); W. F. Clarke, musician, broken leg; Dick Whiteman, conductor, leg amputated above the kneww; Daley, monologist, injured neck; Percy Bieg, musician, injured hand and arm; Charley Bridgewater, musician, cut and bruised; James Wolfscale, musician, cut and bruised, face and body; Prince Mongo, entire body cut and bruised; Joe Smith, musician, cut face and breast; Lee Northington, musician, badly cut face and shoulders; Charles Ford, badly sprained arm and body; Lee Preacher, razor back, bruised body; Lawrence Cheatham, musician, cut face and badly bruised body; Belle Cheatham, sprained body and arms, and about twelve other canvas men were cut and bruised more or less; Side Show Dad (Robert Bruce), badly bruised about body and arms; Mrs. Park Prentice, severe shaking up and bruised, and Razorback Blackey, severe gash from the knee to the thigh. Very few were hurt in cars next to the two wrecked cars; Thomas Perry, bruised head; Will Deloyoye, slightly injured hip and knee. All claims have been amply and fully adjusted by the railroad company. On Sept. 20, at Haleysville, I. T., just after the big show had started, a small cyclone struck the big top and toppled her over very neat and easy. Ryden and Nelson's big aerial rigging saved the canvas, and debris from injuring any of the audience, who were packed to the ring bank."
Mrs. Joseph Cousins presented her husband with a baby boy on Sept. 18, at Jackson, Miss. Mother and child are doing well.
Hough & Huston's notes. This show closed the season at Sedalia, Mo., Sept. 27. This is the first season of the Hough & Huston combination, and it has made a reputation in a single season that will insure business for all time to come. The show, like all other tented exhibitions, battled storms and cold weather in the Spring, and the Fall was a rainy one. To say the show held its own is saying much. The management is to the good and well pleased with their new venture. The show was shipped to Marion, Ind., and we have room for ring stock to be worked, large paint rooms for wagons, warm rooms for animals and enclosed sheds for cars. Orders have already been placed for new wagons for parade, and four new flat cars and one stock car will be added. The show will put on a side show next season, and no money nor pains will be spared to make this the most attractive and best popular priced tented show on the road. The show this season made a decided hit with its large military band and the high class circus acts, along with the dog, pony and monkey circus. We showed the principal towns in Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Indian Territory and Arkansas, and encountered no opposition the whole season. Everybody employed with the show has nothing but good to say for it, and much praise is due the management.
Closing notes of Welsh Bros. The fifteenth season of the above organization finished Oct. 6, at Birdsboro, Pa., in a blaze of glory. Packed houses greeted the show at the closing stand, and made a fitting finish to the most prosperous tour ever experienced by this show. The entire outfit was shipped to the new winter quarters at McGrann's Park, Lancaster, Pa., there to be domiciled during the coming winter months, where the work of enlarging the outfit will at once be started. Many painters, woodworkers and artisans are already on hand at the park for duty. During the past summer the show traveled 7,041 miles, used eight railroads, and visited five states. Very little bad weather was encountered, and no accidents met with. The roster of the performers for the big show and concert up to the closing date, included: Kitamura Japanese Troupe, the West and Zanta Troupe, the Great Sylvester, George De Onzo, Ward Sisters, George Colby, Emil Schnorr, Paul Klotz, Frank and Ida McCormick, Madame Colette, Mrs. Jack Cousins, Geo. T. Boyd, Grimaldi Brown, Prof. John White, and the La Rue Bros. acrobatic troupe. The big sixty-three horse act, a trio of cake walking horses, the 'cycle whirl and the somersault ponies were among the special announcement features. The musical contingent comprised: Harry F. Kriek, H. H. Grimm, W. P. Waldo, Bert Davis, W. L. Simmons, Charles Letford,Thomas Crahan, Geo. W. Taft, John Bernhard, D. F. Oakes, Dominico Valaries, Ross Knight, J. J. Schmidtt, and John S. Kutz, bandmaster. The side show company was composed of: Vic. Hugo, manager; Mlle Edith Hugo, mind reader; Major Littlefinger and wife, King Cole, Chas. Lovell . . . Miss Barton, Chas. Bates, and Prof. Louis Gilbert's Afro-American Cornet Band and troupe of Alabama Minstrels. The advance and advertising department was handled by the following: John T. Welsh, general advance manager and railroad contractor; H. H. Whittler, special agent; V. O. Woodward, manager of car No. 1; E. E. Meredith, press agent; Jack Scott, manager advance brigade No. 2, and J. J. Fletcher, twenty-four hour man. Excellent work was done by the above, the phenomenal business accorded the show being proof of this assertion. The next tenting season will find the show in the field with a brand new splinter equipement and everything upon a more colossal scale than heretofore. Col. M. H. Welsh will be, as usual, the director general, with his office located at Lancaster.
Bonheur Bros. notes. Never in all the road experiences of wagon shows have such long continued rains prevailed. For fourteen days there has been but two days of good show weather. Almost the whole time, from Sept. 19 to Oct. 4, rain has either poured down, or turned into disagreeable drizzle. The show struggled through mud and swollen streams from Colony to Greeley, after stopping over Sunday, Sept. 21, at Garnett, without giving an exhibition. The round top was only set up in the park at Greeley, and, as the rain continued to pour down faster than before, announcement was made that the show would remain over and exhibit on Tuesday. The rain never ceased till four o'clock, Tuesday, and the town was then thoroughly billed before seven o'clock, and, despite mud and water, the citizens of Greeley turned out to the capacity of the round top. Next morning it was again pouring, the mail route wagons could not move over the roads, and what few farmers came in on foot declared the roads impassable. The show was compelled to lay up for the remainder of the week, and gave an entertainment, under full spread of canvas, to a large audience in Greeley, and thus, owing to the incessant rain from Tuesday night till Friday noon, the show was only billed Friday evening for Saturday. Early Sunday, Sept. 29, the train of wagons started across the country to Blue Mound. In places on the hillsides the wheels went down to the axles, and the teamsters had to put six head of horses to pull out. It was after midnight when the last wagon pulled into Centerville, a point half way to Blue Mound. The night drive was made by torch light over the most difficult roads, which were in many places dangerously washed out. A stream had to be forded in the timber over rocks and treacherous holes hidden under water, and made more dangerous by having only a beam of light shining across from the farther shore to guide the drivers. Blue Mound was reached Monday in time to give a night show in a steady downpour of rain and against the opposition of the Belcher Theatre Company, in the opera house. Both shows were patronized, the attendance being pretty well divided, showing evidence that the tent would have been packed if good weather had favored the show. At Kincaid, the next stand, the rain ceased falling and a standing room only audience packed the tent to its utmost capacity. The show pleased them so well that many followed it to Moran, where the show was given without a single poster up or date on the wall. Here it was supposed the inclement weather had worn itself out, and the bill posters donned their past suits and again began putting up the faily colored stands that before could not be made to cling to the walls on account of the floods of rain water that steadily deluged the bill boards. The poster boys had hardly reached their first stand out when the rains resumed, and continued day and night till the morning of Oct. 4. The show left Moran for Gas City in a cool, damp air, under clouded skies and over sloppy roads. Through all this disagreeable time everybody has kept in amiable mood, and cheerfully look forward to the days when the sun must surely shine again.
Vincent C. Harig reports a very successful season as principal clown with Hargrave's Big R. R. Show. He is enjoying a vacation before joining Stickney & Lee's Indoor Circus for the winter season.
Rube Newton, with the Ringling's Circus, who had a fall while riding his "rube race" at Portland, Ore., a few weeks ago, is back at work. One of the hits of the Hippodrome races, he writes.
Geo. Herbert, Wm. A. Gunning and Owen Murray, of Pawtucket, R.I., have organized for the purpose of putting a wagon show on the road next season, to tour the New England states.
Johnny Nalon, trick violinist, is playing through the Southern states with W. L. Main's Circus.
Mrs. Elizabeth Keenan, who died last week, at her home in Philadelphia, although a non-professional, was widely known among professinal people. She was the wife of John Keenan, who has for years been identified with tented exhibitions in an official capacity, and who this year is with the Walter L. Main Show, in charge of inside tickets. Funeral services were held in St. Monica's Church, and interment was in the Holy Cross Cemetery, Philadelphia.
Lew Graham has been engaged as manager of concert and side show privileges with Buffalo Bill's Wild West for the European tour, commencing in London.
John M. Miller reports having closed a very successful season as manager of Williams & Co.'s Great Northern R. R. Shows, and is now enjoying a much needed rest at his home in Fort Madison, Iowa. Manager Miller reports business was far above expectations, considering the rainy season, and the show closed at their winter quarters in Milwaukee with a good balance on the ledger in favor of Prof. Williams.
King E. Ziemer's Royal American Show notes. We closed our tenting season Sept. __, on account of bad weather setting in. We had two weeks more to make, and canceled same. We have had a good season, despite the mishaps. This show will go on the road next season greatly enlarged, and better than ever. Our Indoor Circus opens at St. Louis, Oct. 6, in the Ziemer Building, adjoining the winter quarters.
Notes from Rippel's Shows. We close our season Oct. __, with one of the best season's business in the history of this show to our credit. Mr. Rippel is getting over his wound received at ___, Ind., and will be out in about a week. Our show will be new next season, with new outfit, wagons, and trappings. The old show will be sold at the close of this season. We are little, but now we grow.
Pawnee Bill notes. Pawnee Bill has begun the organization of his Wild West Show for the season of 1903. Already a contract has been signed with ___ Ambark, the Arab Chief, whereby he sails in November for Morocco, province of Sur, and will engage a troupe of Arabs who far exceed any troupe of tumbling Arabs that has ever been seen in this country. He will buy all Arabian horse trappings, costumes, etc., of the most expensive kind, which will be used in the grand street pageant and Arabian contingent of the show. There will be twenty people in the party, including several ladies who are noted for their beauty, and also several children, who will take part in the Miniature Wild West.
New York Clipper, October 25, 1902, pp. 763, 764, 765. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Pawnee Bill Show. This season, notwithstanding the bad weather, has been the most prosperous season on our tour. Through the State of Maine we encountered almost incessant rain, and the drawing power of this show cannot be questioned, as day after day we stood them up in the rain. The privileges have all done well. The roster of our side show is: H. G. Wilson, manager and orator; Jos. Ferris and Chas. A. Downey, ticket sellers; John Conant and W. A. Hundley, ticket takers. The attractions are: Mme. Van Buskirk, mind reader; Beatrix Roderico, snake charmer; Ruth Parkinson, sword walker; Cisco, the Australian wonder; Prof. Burkhart, Punch and magic; Geo. Devers, tattooed man; Sundhoo, Hindoo wonder worker; Escalona, Mexican feather worker; J. James, human crucifixion; Jerry Thompson, cowboy whittler; Prof. Antonio Latrano's Cat Orchestra; King Bill and Jennie, boomerang throwers; Tom Gibson, Enoch Walker, Tom Purcell, Eli Jones, Jas. Wheaton, and H. Simms, our sextet of jubilee singers; Frank Gregory's band of ten pieces. Canvas in charge of Geo. Aherne, with nine assistants. Oriental department: Jack Ryan and A. J. Anderson, ticket sellers; W. Hundley and W. La Monte, ticket takers; La Berta, Beatrice Leslie and La Belle Reta, Oriental dancers; Dot Tallman and Gerturde Long, living picture models; Frank Shein and Geo. Paul, Oriental musicians. Harry Overton, special contracting agent for the shows, has finished his duties ahead, and returned to his home, Winsted, Conn.
Notes from Colorado Grant's R. R. Show. The show has done a big business all season, and will go South for the winter. The show has three cars and carried forty head of trained stock. The tent is 80ft. round top, with two 40ft. middle pieces. There are over sixty people with the show. Pudget is boss canvas man, with twenty assistants; George Reese is general contracting agent, with ten bill posters, ahead of the show. The features of the street parade is W. S. Leadman's famous mounted band of twelve soloists, which is a big hit everywhere. Mr. Grant and his fourteen horse drill act is a big drawing card with the show. Roster: Johnnie Lavier, contortionist and aerialist; Billy Johnson, high wire and aerial act; Charley Axley, juggler, hand balancer and contortionist; Wilson Bros., revolving ladder and brother act; Mrs. Grant and her troupe of performing dogs and goats; Sam Stanfield, slack wire and swinging perch; Bob Ronalzo, principal clown and tumbler; Jess Morton, horizontal bars and tumbling. Concert people: Bob Ronalzo, stump speech and wench song and dance; Mr. and Mrs. Grant, refined musical act; Charley Axley, song and dance and silly kid specialty, and Jess Morton, silence and fun monologue. The "ghost" walks every Sunday morning, and is a welcome visitor.
New York Clipper, November 1, 1902, p. 787. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Sells & Downs' notes. Several of the performers who were injured in the recent wreck have returned from the Oklahoma City Hospital, and started work again. Two new sleeping cars have been dnated to the show, in place of the two that were wrecked, and all claims have been amply and fully adjusted. The Florance Acrobatic Troupe have joined, also Mr. and Mrs. Clarke (Eva and Howard). The show has done a wonderful business through Arkansas, and is still doing it.
Williams' Great Northern R. R. Shows closed their season at Madison, Wis., Oct. 18, having been out since April __, touring the Northwest. The past nine weeks they have been playing street fairs, under the management of Geo. Cable, to a turn away business, they report.
Wm. Melrose, somersault equestrian, closed with the Walter L. Main Shows Oct. 15, at Atlanta, Ga.
Jones and Sutton are playing through the interior of Mexico with Orrin Bros.' Circus.
Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' notes. Several of the members during the past week were the recipients of numerous beautiful and costly gifts, occasioned by the anniversary of their births all coming in the same week, and even a couple of them on the same day. Harry Potter, of the Ten Peerless Potters, received, among several other presents, a very pretty B. P. O. Elks' tooth button; Mrs. Kitty Devene, Elsie St. Leon, Dallie Julian Ledgett and Mrs. Dot Adair received many useful and ornamental tokens. All parties were please with their presents, and a small sized banquet was quickly arranged on last Wednesday, there being only one show on that day. After appeasing the appetites dancing was indulged in by all who cared to participate, and furious was the fun until the train men called "all aboard." Everbody with the show is well, weather fine, and business good down here in the balmy South.
Through the instrumentality of Ed. Jenkins, assistant master of horse of the Ringling Bros. Circus, fifteen attaches of that show were initiated into Ft. Worth, Texas, aerie, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Oct. __. Mr. Jenkins, who is a resident of that city, and worthy inner guard of the local lodge of Eagles, reached the city a day in advanve of the circus, to make preparations for the initiation. Following this, refreshments were served, and a programme consisting of singing, dancing and story telling, in which a number of the circus people took part, was carried out. Those people who became memebers of the lodge were: Geo. W. Dunbar, of the Dunbar Trio; Julius Geissier, of the Fortune Bros. bar performers; Chas. W. McCurren, manager of the menagerie; Jno. Clayton, road property man; Lee Coleman, first assistant boss canvas man; Al. S. ___, manager side show; Paul ___, chief watchman; Rhoda Royal, horse breaker; Raymond Thompson, bareback rider; Clifford D. Orr and Wm. J. White, of the side show, and Al. Johnson, Frank Redman, Patrick Fitzgerald and J. B. Meredith, dining car employes.
New York Clipper, November 8, 1902, pp. 819, 825. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Walter L. Main Show. Isaac V. Strebig, railroad contractor, has severed his connection with the Fashion Plate Show, his engagement terminating at Abbeville, S.C., Oct. 18. Mr. Strebig is enjoying a much needed rest with his family in Philadelphia. Harry Allen, special representative of the show, is suffering from a rupture of a ligament of his left knee, the result of careless handling of the sleeper section by the train crew in making up the circus train at Elberton, Ga., night of Oct. 17. Several members of the show were injured, but Mr. Allen's injuries were the most severe. Mike Welch, of the Welch Bros.' Circus, was a visitor with the Main Show for a few days last week. At Atlanta, Ga., Oct. __, the tents wouldn't begin to hold the people and the crush at night was something enormous. Hundreds of late comers clamored for tickets for the big show, and so great was their disappointment in not being able to gain admittance that a riot was narrowly averted. Business at Montgomery, Ala., Columbus, and Macon, Ga., was big. At Macon the show turned people away in the afternoon in spite of a heavy rain. The Main Show is now touring the Carolinas, and business is at the top notch. This will undoubtedly be the most successful season in Walter L. Main's history. Col. James D. Harrison, treasurer of privileges, is back on duty, after a week's visit with friends in Texas. While in the Lone Star State he took in the Ringling Bros.' Circus at Fort Worth, and the Buffalo Bill Wild West at Dallas. On his return to the Main Show, admiring friends in the dressing room presented Mr. Harrison with a beautiful cane. Roster of the concert: We open with the Old Plantation Minstrels. In the olio are: Magee and Dale, sketch; Jean Foster, tenor balladist; Mrs. Alvo, soprano; Arthur Borelly, comedy musical act; Schaeffer and West, Irish comedians;, concluding with a big prize cake walk, in which six couples take part. Arthur Borelly is stage manager.
After an absence of five years, B. F. Hamilton, better known as "Tody" Hamilton, arrived Oct. 28 from Cherbourg. "Tody" is the literary man for the "greatest show on earth." Mr. Hamilton stated that he was glad to be at home again, and conversed entertainingly of some of his experienced while abroad. He had been in Europe just five years and two days, and every minute of his time was spent in keeping the European public duly impressed with the size, excellence, the marvelousness of the Barnum & Bailey Show. Mr. Hamilton stated in an interview: "The press agent has a hard time in Europe. Paris and Vienna were the worst cities I tackled. When I got to Paris I was told that I couldn't get anything about the show in the papers there. "Why not?" I asked. "My dear sir," was the reply always, "this is Paris." I didn't see just what difference that made, so I went to work. It amazed them at first, but they took to the idea readily enough, and one day the Journal came out with four pages and illustrations, all about the show. In Paris we had our show in the Galerie des Machines, which is the greatest place on earth for our business. . . . What amazed them in Berlin was the way in which we got things in shape. Several staff officers saw us unload 400 horses in seven minutes. Our four trains were a constant source of wonder. They were built for us over there, and we went all over Europe in them, except Spain and Russia, where we were unable to go on account of the narrow gauge railways. We left the trains over there to be used by Buffalo Bill's Show. . . . "
S. Edw. Corbette, treasurer of Sun Bros.' Shows, and Rose Gillespie (non-professional), of Columbus, O., a sister of D. H. Gillespie, manager of Sun Bros.' Side Show, were married at Emporia, Va., on Oct. 22.
. . . "Walter L. Main has engaged the following staff for the winter. Present veterinary surgeon Dr. ___ will take Dan Fitzgerald's place as superintendent, and Danny will rest, after five consecutive years without a vacation. Howard ___, Mr. Main's nephew, will resume his former position as purchasing agent. Owen W. Doud, secretary; Dan Taylor, superintendent of repairs; Ernie Houghton, boss hostler, will rest at his home in Alabama for the winter. Bobbie Tyler will have charge of the ring stock at winter quarters, and James Cloughs will have charge of the baggage horses at Trumbull Farm. William Winner will be superintendent of the menagerie, as of yore; Richard Jones will again train the elephants, this time an entirely new act. Mr. Taylor will commence immediately to repair and paint the baggage wagons, tableaux, cages, etc., outside of this there will be no work or training done until the first of January. Mr. Dockrill will go to his home in Chicago until after the holidays. Mr. Main is completely exhausted from hard work, and will only remain in Geneva until the show is stored, insured and inventories, in about a week or ten days. He will then go to some winter resort and rest, returning to Geneva about the first of January. He avers he will not answer letter, nor think of business until after the holidays. Our season, until we came South, was the most pleasant and profitable the Main Show has ever experienced, but the work down South has been the hardest ever. The business South has been very bad, and very good, no money made, and none lost. The show has taken some very big money where they have had the population, but the small towns have been bad; in fact, the Main Show has grown too big for the small towns, and, if the almost prohibitory license and railroad rates are not reduced, don't think we will ever venture across the Mason and Dixon line again. We only lost four performances on the season. Our canvas, paraphernalia in general, looks the best it ever has in the Fall. We haven't had a great deal of bad weather during the season. Our horses and animals are in excellent condition. Everyone seems contented and satisfied with the accommodations, and, in fact, our Eastern trip, where we played nearly every Summer resort in that country, was a season of pleasure as well as profit, and to sum it all up, the good with the bad, it has been a season of handsome profit and great experience."
Notes from Bonheur Bros. Two snow white Shetland ponies, doing a swell menage act, have been added to the show. These ponies cannot be told apart, and are beauties, having long manes and tails, and stand thirty-six inches high, and perform many new tricks. The Bonheurs now have quite a herd of ponies, the swellest and prettiest that can be obtained anywhere. A real white Shetland is someting rare, but we have secured a perfectly matched team of them.
The John H. Sparks Shows are making a tour of the Indian Territory, under management of Charles Sparks. J. R. Bonheur was the guest of Mr. and Mrs. Sparks at ___, I. T.
A communication from Albany, Ga., states that Minting, the unicyclist, of Forepaugh & Sells Circus, is badly injured at that place. Minting rides a unicycle up a spiral tower forty feet in height. He made the ascent in safety, but when he jumped from his wheel at the top landing, the platform gave way and he fell to the ground, striking the ironwork three different places as he fell. He is injured internally.
Notes from Lee Bros.' Show. Our winter quarters will be at Cranston, R.I. Owing to an epidemic of boxing clubs in Providence, every section of our seats are now in use by those clubs. We will open our third season (1903) at our stronghold, Providence, R.I., for one week, the cover our usual route, and will be known as Lee Bros.' Big Double Show. Charley ___, the old time wagon show trouper, is in charge of winter quarters.
Notes from the Pawnee Bill Wild West Co. Headquarters for the next five months will be at Carnegie, Pa. Major Lillie (Pawnee Bill) is closing contracts for new cars, wagons, canvas and other material pertaining to building and enlarging the show. The winter quarters look as busy as a turn away on the circus lot. All of the old material, in the shape of wagons, canvas, harness, horses and cars, are being diposed of. The show will be almost entirely new next season, and the largest of its kind in the world. The arena and seating capacity will eclipse anything heretofore attempted. The show will be transported on three trains, composed of one section of Pullman sleepers and two of solid steel stock and flat cars. Our army of people are being engaged and nothing is being left undone to make the Pawnee Bill show the greatest and best Wild West in the world.
New York Clipper, November 15, 1902, p. 846. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from La Mont Bros.' Shows. We closed our third season . . . We were out twenty-four weeks, traveled overland nineteen hundred and forty-seven miles, and from a financial standpoint, the show was a success. C. R. and Georgie La Mont will stay in Salem, and get the outfit in shape for the season of 1903. Harry La Mont will take an extended trip to the Pacific coast, to get a lot of American wild animals for the menagerie, which will be enlarged to seven cages, all told. A new band wagon and two tableaux wagons will be added for next season. C. R. La Mont has ordered a new eighty foot top, with a forty foot middle piece, and everything will leave winter quarters, new and bright, for the season of 1903. Chas. Randolph will stay in winter quarters and break a bunch a ponies, monkeys, Angora goats and dogs, for a mixed animal act for next season. Joe ___, who had charge of the advance, has signed for next season, making it his fourth season ahead of the show. C. R. La Mont will attend the ___ Show sale at Kokomo Ind, Nov. __.
New York Clipper, November 22, 1902, p. 874. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Edward Shipp, who has been equestrian director of the Ringling Bros.' Show, has signed with the Forepaugh-Sells Show in the same capacity for next season, and his wife, Miss Lowande, has signed with the same show to do her riding act. Mr. Shipp will conduct the winter circus, as usual, this season, and has booked two weeks in February at Convention Hall, Kansas City; a week at Peoria, Ill., and is arranging other dates.
Barnum & Bailey have established their New York office at 112 West Forty-second Street, occupying the entire building.
The Three Brothers Maynard closed their second season with the W. L. Main Shows, and report success with their bounding hay rack, which was a feature of the parade.
The Walter L. Main Show notes. We closed the season of 1902 at Roxboro, N.C., Nov. 11, after the most successful tour since its organization, eighteen years ago. The show was immediately shipped to the winter quarters in Geneva, O. Mr. Main will take a much needed rest away from home, and will not return to reorganize for the season of 1903 until after the holidays. However, winter quarters will take on activity at once, and the entire show property will be overhauled. The show's agents have received their instructions, and there will not be an idle moment for them during the winter. . . . The season just closed has been one of a trifle over thirty weeks, or to be exact, one hundred and eighty-three show days. Out of three hundred and sixty-six possible performances, three hundred and sixty-two were given, and of the four performances not given, only two were not given by reason of uncontrollable circumstances. This was in Wheeling, W. Va., where the entire lot was submerged and the rain fell in torrents all day. Although the tents were raised and the street parade given, Mr. Main decided that it would be impossible to give a show that would satisfy the people and do justice to himself, so he gave none at all. Seventeen States were made, and many of the cities and towns were repeaters from 1902. Repeaters or no repeaters, the result was the same. Turn aways in the Eastern and Middle States were the rule, and in all the Southern cities the same. Opposition, disagreeable weather, county official garbed in red tape, and, in fact, everything possible to worry a show was encountered, but it had no perceptibly bad effects in the ticket wagons. Ninety-seven stands were in opposition, and every show on the road of prominence was encountered. It is not "throwing bouquets" to say that the opposition had not the slightest effect. Boston was made for the first time by this show, and its success was instant and lasting. Out of twelve performances given there, eight of them were turn aways, and included the opening night. Boston papers adopted the show, and the notices it received are unprecedented in circus history in the city. Atlanta, Ga., was made three days behind the strongest featured show on the road, and at neither performance could the Main canvas hold the crowd that clamored for admission. The Southern tour was successful, but it was the show's reputation that made it so. No show can get money in the South by the billing alone. The people are skeptical, and in fact are from Missouri, "You must show them." However, they love a circus, but it must be one they know to be good. All circuses don't look alike to them, and they will not stand to be given "the worst of it." They are not alone in this, for the papers are always framed up for an inferior circus. The Southern papers are beginning to see that high licenses in some of the Southern states is taking money out of their pockets, and it is more than possible that North Carolina, when the Legislature meets at Raleigh, the first of the year, will have the State license either reduced or so amended that show can visit the state. The season, taken in its entirety, was the most successful, from every point of view, since Mr. Main first started in the show business. There was not one fatal accident or case of sickness during the season. No wrecks of any magnitude, and no blow downs. Of course there were many narrow escapes, but they only figure in the fireside reminiscences during the winter. Before the final shake hands, A. Moreland, the caterer with the show, had is corps do their best, and the result was an elegant farewell dinner. W. Powers, who was adjuster with the show, has rejoined the advance of the Kilties Band, as general agent. Mr. Powers is the only adjuster that ever carried a circus through the South, and successfully convinced the State and county officials that the licenses were too exhorbitant to be legal. It is more than probably the Mr. Powers' arguments may have more than a temporary effect, and the seed sown spring up and bear an amendment to the present law that will give a cheaper license to the circuses that tour the Southern States. John D. Carey, press representative of the show, was in New York last week, transacting personal business and renewing "newspaper row" acquaintances before going to his home in Buffalo. Mr. Carey will devote his time this winter to special writing for a syndicate of papers.
New York Clipper, December 6, 1902, p. 912. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
During the evening performance of the Harris Nickel Plate Show, at Sparks, Ga., Ernesto Mooney, double somersault leaper and gymnast, has a fall from a swinging perch, caused by a hook on one of the blocks breaking and letting the whole riggins fall to the ground. Mr. Mooney escaped with only a few bruises.
Mrs. M. A. Main, mother of Walter L. Main, died on November 18, Her funeral occurred Nov. 21.
James Carson, card and coin king, has closed a successful season with the Ringling Bros.' Circus. Mr. and Mrs. Carson are at Hot Springs, Ark., for the winter.
Harris' Nickel Plate Shows closed the season Nov. 22, and went into winter quarters at the State Fair Grounds, Valdosta, Ga. Gypsy, the huge performing elephant, became unmanagable after the performance at Valdosta, Nov. 22, and killed her keeper, James O'Rourke. Another showman was injured in endeavoring to chain the animal. . . .
Oscar Lowande closed a very successful season with the Great Adam Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Circus at New Orleans, Nov. 19. At his closing performance he was presented with a beautiful gold medal by the Sells Bros. for the difficult feat of doing a somersault from one horse to another horse while the horses were running at full speed. He was re-engaged for the season of 1903.
Peter Conklin Jr., who has been in Europe with the Barnum & Bailey Show for the past five years, returned to this country last week. Mr. Conklin will be located with his father at Coney Island for the winter.
Naomi Ethardo closed with the Ringling Show, and is now with the Pubiliones Show in Cuba.
The related information of the death of Charles B. Hicks, minstrel manager and circus representative, has just reached us. He died at Surabaya, Japan, from cholera, some months ago. Mr. Hicks was a native of Baltimore, Md., and was the originator of the Georegia and Hicks-Sawyer Minstrels, with which he visited the Australian colonies. He was for the past twelve years the general representative of Harmston's Grand Circus and Menagerie, touring the Orient.
New York Clipper, December 13, 1902, pp. 928, 937. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
On a steamer which sailed for Southampton on Dec. 3 were two hundred members of Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show, including all the cowboys and Indians. The show will make a long tour of Europe, and will cover in five years the same territory visited by the Barnum & Bailey Circus. The remainder of the Wild West Show will follow later.
Josephine Smith, once a well known trapeze performer and bareback rider, appeared at the Jefferson Street Police Station, Philadelphia, on Nov. 30, for shelter and medicine. She told a pitiful story of having been deserted by her family. The police in investigating her story learned that ten years ago she was traveling with the leading circuses of the day, but had since married and had met with misfortune. She said she tried to take up her old work again, but found that she was not capable. After being given warm clothes and food she was taken to the Philadelphia Hospital, and an effort will be made to locate her husband, who, it is said, is in fair circumstances.
Prof. Chas. E. Griffin, lecturer and stage manager, and his wife, Octavia Griffin, formerly of the Ringling Bros.' Shows, have signed with the Buffalo Bill Show for the European tour of that enterprise.
Sig. Sautelle's Show notes. We closed the season of 1902 at Glassboro, N.J., Nov. 1. It was the most successful season in the history of Mr. Sautelle's enterprise, which is, indeed, saying a great deal, as this show has never known a losing tour. The show was loaded and on its way to winter quarters at Homer, N.Y., eight hours after the final performance. About forty workingmen and department bosses accompanied the show home. Immediately upon the arrival of the show train at Homer the animals were housed in their new quarters, which were made in readiness for them during the summer months. The greater part of the working stock was turned out on Mr. Sautelle's No. 3 farm, and wagons and cages were sent to the work and paint shops to be thoroughly overhauled and repainted. Mr. Sautelle is personally superintending the erection of a new ring barn, which, when completed, will be the finest building of its kind in existence; it is 210 feet in circumference, and __ feet to the peak. The breaking of new ring stock will commence as soon as the building is completed. One new sleeper, one new stock and another 60ft. flat car will be added to the train for next season, which will make it an eighteen car show. Our parade and menagerie will, as before, be a feature. New animals, including ten elephants, are expected to arrive about Jan. __. Our season's pleasantness was marred by but few accidents, which are always anticipated by a large railroad show. Opposition, through often in the Eastern and Middle States, was ineffective, turnaways and S. R. O. was quite customary. Our opposition brigades, in charge of Al. Foster, did some great work ahead. All new and special paper will be sued plentifully in our next campaign. All new parade and entry wardrobe of a modern design have been ordered. The "governor" and Mrs. Sautelle will start on a combined pleasure and business trip in a few days, during which time they will visit a number of their farms, from which they have received some very gratifying reports. Our ever busy Frank A. Robbins has returned to New York. Adjuster R. J. Ford to Geneva, O.; John Barton to Chicago, and James Shipman to Winchester, N.H.
Notes from the Bartine Consolidated Shows. This organization will be entirely new for the season of 1903, and will require about twelve cars to transport it. Mr. Bartine has been in poor health for the past three years, but is entirely well again, and is feeling better and younger than in ten years. He is determined to make this show for the coming season, the banner show of its size on the road. The territory will include Ohio, Kentucky, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Iowa.
Lew Graham, manager of privileges, called at this office Dec. _, prior to sailing for England with a large number of Buffalo Bill show people, on the same day.
Tanner Brothers' United R. R. Show notes. We are now located in our usual winter quarters, Lincoln, Neb. Our past season has been the most successful in the history of the show. Our shows will be greatly enlarged next year. Col. Dick Tanner's trained animals will be presented in ring No. 1, and some of the best circus talent will be seen in ring No. 2, and on our elevated stage. Five new cages will be added to our parade, while our band will be elaborately uniformed and will be a special feature of our shows. Our side show will be operated by J. C. Jerome.
Notes from Bonheur Brothers best big wagon shows. We arrived in winter quarters at Augusta, Okl. Ter., Thanksgiving Day, and the members of the company were all treated to a big turkey dinner. Fat gobblers in plenty had been provided, stuffed with oyster dressing and baked to a king's taste. George Hart, in charge of affairs at the quarters during the Summer, with his wife and little son, ate with the managers and the Musical Brennans, who remain with the show for the winter tour in opera houses. The rest of the company ate in the dining tent, set up near the buildings for the occasion, and presided over by Roy Buchanan, who was chef for the show during the past two months of its toure in the twin territories. After the feast salaries were paid in full to every memeber of the show, and everyone voted that they ahd a great deal to be thankful for in spite of an extremely wet season.
Park B Prentiss writes: "I have closed a most pleasant season as musical director with Sells & Downs' United Shows, and have been re-engaged for next season. I am playing with Kyle's Opera House orchestra, at Beaumont, Tex. for the winter . . .
Al. Ringling, of the Ringling Brothers' Circus, arrived in New York City last week for a short sojourn.
Bernice Nata sailed from New York, Dec. 6, to join the Pubiliones Circus, in Cuba.
Prof. Chas. E. Griffin, of the Ringling Bros.' Circus, was presented, by his wife, Octavia Griffin, with a daughter at Albia, Ia., Nov. 28.
Notes from Geo. S. Ely's Two Big Shows. We closed a very successful season Nov. 17, and went into winter quarters at Belmont, Ill. We have the large livery barn 60x180 feet, rented from Mr. Coles, and have ample room for all our stock. We will erect a 40 foot ring, and devote our time to breaking stock for next season. We have all our wagons and harness cleaned and put aside in good shape, ready for next season. We will go out in better shape than ever, opening April __, 1902, and work South.
A. H. Minting will sail on Dec. 10 for a two months' engagement in London, and return in March for his third season with Forepaugh & Sells' Great Shows.
New York Clipper, December 20, 1902, pp. 952, 959. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from F. M. Myers' Little Giant Show. We closed our season at ____, Ia., Oct. __, and pulled from there to Independence, and shipped by rail, as the roads were bad and the weather so cold and disagreeable for all the performers in the dressing room. Arriving at the old starting point, Tipton, 17, we had been over part of three States, and traveled a little over sixteen hundred miles in one of the worst seasons that any old wagon showman ever experienced. But, after all, it has been the best season by far, financially, that the management has ever had, and the outlook is bright for the next tenting season also. All the performers have gone to their homes, or joined different companies. All the stock has comfortable accommodations at the winter quarters, feasting on their well earned grain and hay. The manager has already added a fine $250 bus to transport the band for next season. The show will be greatly enlarged throughout, and we have arranged for a new top from Baker & Lockwood. It will be 60ft., with a 30ft. middle. We will add a band of six mouth pieces and two drums, and have fourteen head of stock to transport the show, while a fine large cook wagon will be added, which will make it possible to do away with all cook tents. A new ticket wagon will be added, as well. Everything is hustle at winter quarters, and all are making arrangements and getting things in shape for the early opening. There is some talk of abandoning the wagons, and making a two car show out of it. The manager ran down to Muscatine recently, and was very glad to find Capt. W. D. Ament doing a fine business with his show there, in a large store room. It is called the Ghost Mystery.
Chas. A. Koster, the circus agent and lithographer, closed his season at El Paso, Tex., ahead of the Buffalo Bill Show, and is laying off at his home in Bellefontaine, O., booking and routing the comic opera, "The Sultan of Sulu," for next season. Mr. Koster will next summer be connected with the Barnum & Bailey Show, as special advertising agent.
Jules Turour is spending the winter at his home in Canada. He has been re-engaged by the Ringling Brothers for next season.
Sig. Tomasso will go to Austin & Stone's Museum, Boston, for two weeks, commencing Dec. 29, after which he will return to Pennsylvania, to await the opening of the Barnum & Bailey Show.
Sig. Sautelle was in town last week and placed an order for a 150ft. top, with three __ft. middle pieces.
Ed ("Pop") Baldwin, one of the first understanders for a three high brother act in America, and for ten years in charge of the dressing room with the Lemon Bros.' Show, and Harry S. Noyes, a well known side show orator, and his wife, are wintering in Redlands, Cal., they inform us, amid the largest orange groves in America, with a climate like June.
Jack Swift writes that his wife (formerly Daisy Mosher) presented him with a fine baby boy on Dec. 4. He stated that Swift Bros.' Shows closed a very successful season, and have built a large winter quarters at Golden Gate, Ill., covering an entire block, and consisting of a horse barn, a ring barn, a hotel, theatre, a vehicle repository, and an office building. They have commenced painting up for next season.
Notes from Seibel's winter quarters. Mr. Seibel has one of the finest training barns in the West, with all modern improvements, including electric lights. The size is 40x80. Mr. Seibel intends to put out, next season, a one hundred horse, dog and pony show, which will be one of the finest on the road. He has his dogs and ponies under training, two troupes, twelve in each, and twenty dogs. They are all under the care and management of Prof. Sloat. Everything will be brand new, from stake to centre jpole. The main top will be 80x160, menagerie 50x80; dressing top 30x20; dining top ___, and the horse top 30x60.
Notes from the Lucky Bill's winter quarters. Everything is booming around the quarters, and everybody is busy. Lucky Bill and ___ Granger returned from a trip through the South, taking in Galveston, New Orleans and El Paso. They brought back four large alligators. We have also just received from the East a fine pair of ___, two large cinnamon bears, and ten monkeys, which makes quite an addition to our animal department. Mrs. Van Housen presented her husband with a bouncing baby boy on Dec. 8. Mother and child doing well. The event was made the occasion of a feast and a good time, which was enjoyed by all connected with the show. All are well and happy and enjoy the long winter evenings looking over the Old Reliable.
Sam ___ informs us that he has closed a successful season with A. G. Barnes' Trained Animals and Vaudeville Circus, doing his clown act, and is at home under the care of a physician for treatment for an abcess in his side, caused from a sprain received while doing his act. After the holidays he will rejoin Mr. Barnes in Chicago, for a Southern tour.
1903
New York Clipper, January 10, 1903, pp. 1011, 1022, 1023. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from E. G. Smith's Imperial Shows. Everybody around winter quarters is busy getting things in shape for our sixth successive season, which opens April 25. The show will be perfect in its equipment. We will have all new tents, the wagons will be repaird and decorated, and new trappings will be purchased for our ring stock. This will be one of the best equipped shows of its kind in America next season. Will use all special printing and lots of it. The feature of the pony contingent will be a spotted Shetland, thirty inches high, weighing one hundred and fifty pounds, doing a single act of twenty minutes duration. The comic features of our trained stock will be Nancy and Jenny, the cake walking donkeys. A troupe of ten dogs, doing all new tricks, will help to please the ladies and children. Keller Seminger will see to the advance, making his second season.
Harry W. Semon has cancelled his engagement with the Buckskin Bill Wild West. Mr. Semon will be the general agent and railroad contractor of the "Luella-Forepaugh-Fish," Incorporated, "Wild West Shows" next season. This organization, Mr. Seamon writes, will be one of the most elaborate and largest of its kind that will tour this country.
Bernice Nata writes from Havana, Cuba, under date of Dec. 18, as follows: "I was married in New York, the 'the Little Church Around the Corner,' on Dec. 5(3?), to Walter B. Greaves, late treasurer of the Theatre Royal, Montreal, and sailed for Cuba Dec. 6(?), to join the Tito Ruenes Circo. All the people are well, and are winning favor. We have the Kitamura troupe of Japs, under the management of J. Keeler; Esmeralda, musical act, with xylophone and bells; Lowande Family riders; La Velle's dogs; Prof. ___, ventriloquist; Saskerino, contortionists; Rose Edyth, dancer, and my tank act, also several native acts, trapeze, rings and pantomimists. We went on a hunt for the Clipper, and it did not take us long to discover it. Havana is now a clean, fine city, and reminds one more of a Southern town in France than when I visited it before."
The Sun Bros. write: "We are wintering at Norfolk, Va., at the State Fair Grounds. Our No. 2 R. R. Show is South for the winter, in charge of Pete Sun. Geo. Sun is taking a well deserved vacation at ___ in Toledo, O., while S. Eds. Corbette, our treasurer and assistant manager, has charge of winter quarters."
___ Heckman writes: "Mrs. Heckman presented me with a fine boy baby on Dec. 12. I am re-engaged for next season with the Robinson Shows as advance press agent and manager of car No. 1. Will remain at home for the winter."
Carl Clair, bandmaster of the Barnum & Bailey Show, returned from Europe last week and is now organizing the band for next season.
James Duval and Brother (Geo. Murphy), the famous comedy contortionists, go with the John Robinson Shows next season.
Johnny Nalon, trick violinist, has been re-engaged with Walter L. Main's Circus for next season.
Notes from Welsh Bros.' practicing quarters. The rehearsal season of the "Newest Great" is now on, and a large contingent of "spangled" actors and equestrian expositors are disporting themselves twice daily. The new "practicing house" is heated by ___, and also contains two curbed rings and other first class circus accessories necessary for rehearsals. Christmas time was spent in a most enjoyable manner, the annual yuletide banquet being provided by the Messrs. Welsh, and was participated in by all of the employees and performers at the quarters. Among the "spangled" folk at work here are: Mr. and Mrs. Jack Cousins, Glentonni Bros., Adele Stickney, ___ Williams, Geo. Colby, John White Jr., and equestrian director John White. Contracts have been closed for the production of the spectacular show, "Cinderella." All new costume, scenic and mechanical effect will be used, and it will be the most pretentious number ever presented by this show. Signor Gasconai, the well known ballet master, will have charge of the ballet, and promises that his ensembles will prove to be a revelation when the opening day arrives. The equipment of the show, including the cars, wagons, tents, etc., have received their finishing touches, and little remains to be done in that direction. The rest of the winter will be given over to rehearsals. the executive staff will include: M. H. Welsh, director general; John T. Welsh, general agent (sixteenth year); V. O. Woodward, special agent; Chas. w. Gilder, manager of advertising car, and Geo. H. Irving, manager of side shows.
Manager Chas. C. Wilson writes: "the W. H. Harris World Famous Nickel Plate Shows opens at Valdosta, Ga., Feb. 26. The roster engaged comprises: C. D. McIntyre, general agent; Wm. Glasby, advertising agent; Clem Kerr, adjuster; Jas. Keenan, tickets; Frank Shafer, privileges; Dan Costello, equestrian director; Alex. Bowles, band master; Chas. Palmer, boss hostler; Red Scarett, boss props; Tom Powers, train master; Geo. Staples, chandeliers, and the following performers: Wm. F. Melrose, somersault equestrian; the Millette Family, equestrians and gymnasts; the Jennier Famiy, gymnasts and acrobats; Lombard Sister, aerialists; Antonio Bros., acrobats; Ernesto Mooney, aerialist; Bonny Sheas, Billy ___, Ed. Morasco, Casper Bitting and John Sweeney, clowns. A very strong company, and will make the finest one ring circus programme ever seen in America."
Dr. C. M. Stull informs us that John Schafer, known as "Dutch," an eight horse driver, was killed by a railroad train Dec. 27, at Geneva, O. He was in the employ of the Main Show. Anyone knowing the address of his relatives will confer a favor by communicating with Dr. C. M. Stull, superintendent of the Walter L. Main Shows, Geneva, O.
Jas. A. Morrow, orator and side show manager, formerly connected with Sells & Gray's Circus and Buckskin Bill's Wild West, is now at the Sautelle House, Homer, N.Y., which is the home of the Sig. Sautelle shows. Mr. Morrow will handle the side show annex and concert for this show the coming season. He writes: "Entirely new ideas and novel acts will take the place of the old time side show. A big free morning show will consist of Wild West acts and a ninety foot dive into a tank of water by a pair of young antelope."
Tanner Bros.' Great R. R. Show notes. The Booth Brothers, acrobats, aerial gymnasts, leapers and tumblers, have been re-engaged for next season. They are now at winter quarters, breaking in a flying act and a hurdle riding act. George Booth will have charge of the reserved seats next season, and Edward Booth will be our equestrian director. Walter E. Dewey and wife left Dec. 24 for Des Monies, where they will spend the holidays.
Frank B. Hubin writes: "My new United Shows, Circus, Museum and Wild West, will open its fourth regular season early in April, and will play over its 1901 route, reserving the 2901 route for the season of 1904. Many surprises will be promised for the coming season, and the big locomobile band chariot will create a favorable impression, especially through New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland. A new flat and stock car will be added, making this one of the neatest and cleanest small twenty-five cent shows on the road. Prof. Chas. Lacy will make daily trips to the clouds in his big airship, ___.
New York Clipper, January 24, 1903, pp. 1056, 1066, 1069. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the King E. Ziemer Royal American Shows. We are all ready for our opening the coming season. Everything is finished and has a flashy appearance. Some of the best talent procurable have signed with this show, and it needs but few additions to make the roster complete.
Alex Glasscock's Dog and Pony Show is touring Southern Louisiana, to a reported good business. The show will run all winter. Alex Glasscock, sole owner and manger; Foster Glasscock, in charge of side show; Doc. Everton, advance, with three assistants; W. L. Brown, with band of six mouthpieces; Clarence Everton, in charge of privileges; Harry Monto, equestrian dirctor. Leon Donagan has joined to play tuba.
Hammer taps from the Lucky Bill winter quarters. Everything is a hum and a buzz, with building new wagons, repairing old ones, remodeling harness and trappings, grooming and training horses, ponies, etc. Blacksmiths, wood workmen, painters, decorators and all are kept busy early and late, getting ready for our opening, which will take place March 28. We will have one of the finest and neatest overland shows that ever went down the lane. Lucky Bill has already signed Zat Zam and Mowra, Willard and Willard, the Musical Grangers, Alf. H. Pierce, Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Van Housen, Newton and La Belle, and the Tuson Sisters. Art Runyan will have charge of the advance, making it his third season with the show.
William La Rue Jr. is engaged with the Forepaugh & Sells Shows.
Notes from Lee Bros.' Shows. We are preparing for Spring. Our new top has arrived and we will have the old one withing reach, in case of accidents or blowdowns. Many other improvements will be made in the equipment of the show.
___ Trout, formerly manager of the Trout & Foster Circus, has leased the Dugan Hotel, at Oswego, N.Y. Mr. Trout has decided not to go out with his circus next season.
Notes from Dashington Bros.' Show. We have just gone into our winter quarters, after closing a very successful season of our ___ Vaudeville and Circus Show Company. We will open next season about May __, 1903, better and larger than ever, and will travel by wagon train.
Notes from the Walter L. Main winter quarters. Mr. Main has decided to try and make the Main Show the foremost and largest show in the world in the near future. It has grown from a small five horse wagon affair to its present size, a healthy natural growth, and is now no longer an experiment, but a solid American institution. The show has visited every State in the Union excepting three, and has traversed every province of Canada, from Vancouver to Cape Breton Island, and with a new and beautiful winter quarters, a good reputation, and credit, and as Mr. Main still claims, to be the youngest sole proprietor of big shows in American. The members of this aggregation fail to see what is to prevent the Main Show from becoming one of the greatest.
Bonheur Bros. Show notes. The Musical Brennans were recipients of handsome Christmas presents during the holidays. Edward Brennan received a handsome gold watch from the Bonheur Bros., and Maude Brennan was presented with a diamond tiara, in the shape of a star and crescent. The acts that are being worked up at winter quarters will be a surprise to the patron of the show next season. The dogs are the best that have ever gone out with the show. The tiny ponies will show the effects of a thorough educator. Merle Trousdale, known as Prof. Merle, has charge of the troupe of lilliputian horses belonging to the Bonheur stables, and he certainly knows how to develop their natural traits and make remarkable performers of the equine midgets. Dolly Dorian has joined the show for the winter season.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Big Twenty Car Show. Everything in winter quarters, Homer, N.Y., is kept on a hustle. Blacksmiths, painter, artists, heads of working departments, and forty workmen and hostlers are busy getting ready for this year's campaign. The show will be bigger and bettr than ever. A new shipment of meat and hay animals are expected to arrive daily, and preparations are completed to receive them. A New York tent maker is busy working on the new top, size 150ft. round top, and three __ft. middles. The parade will be the handsomest in this country, and will be a grand surprise to old time showmen. One hundred and ten new sets of harness have been ordered, besides eight new wagons, including a water, gasoline, ticket and band wagon, now in course of construction. Harry Reeves, our new trainer and horse breaker, has accomplished great results with the stock. One of the features will be the sixty-three horse act; another bareback riding lion, Jenico. The annex, under the management of Jas. A. Morrow, is entirely new. All old time features have been omitted. Mr. Morrow claims his new front to be the handsomest every used by any show. Our jolly Jim Shipman arrived at Homer Jan. __. Frank A. Robbins is expected daily. Those already at quarters, looking after the interests of the different departments, are: Sig. Sautelle adn wife, Dan Travers and wife, Jas. Shipman, Al. C. ___, Frank Smith, Wm. Parker, Harry Reeves, Robt. Scott, Geo. Reed, Jerry Manton, Effie Morrow, Ada Thorpe, and Jas. A. Morrow. All enjoy good health and stop at the Sautelle Hotel.
Dan Lester writes from Norfolk, Va., as follows: "Show people are well known for their generosity, not only among themselves, but others as well. A striking example of this occurred this week in Norfolk. The citizens, assisted by the press, were organizing a 'soup fund.' When the Sun Bros. Circus closed last season near Norfolk, Geo. St. Christie, the superintendent of the show, started in the business of cany manufacturing. He has six men on the street as salesmen. Mr. Christie and his men are going to give their services, candy, good will, etc., for one day to help the poor and needy. All sales for Friday, Jan. 17, 'keep the pot boiling.'"
Ringling Circus notes. Several hundred animal trainers, mechanics, artisans and laborers are working almost day and night at the Ringling winter quarters, at Baraboo, Wis., rounding the "World's Greatest Shows" into shape for the tour of 1903. More men are employed at the quarters this winter than ever before, and they have entered with hearty enthusiasm into the work allotted them. Pearl Souders, superintendent of elephants, is breaking in an entirely new act, in which the wisest of his charges will participate. The big brutes are put through their paces three times a day. All of the animals in the immense menagerie are wintering exceptionally well. The giraffes are growing rapidly, the rhinocerous, a recent additon, seems satisfied with his lot, while the numerous other species are as fat and round as well fed babies. In the ring barns Rhoda Royal, Mike Rooney, John Slater,Frank Schadel and John Agee are working several hundred head of ring and menage horses. New acts that will astonish the circus going public the coming summer are being put together, and both men and horses are on the go from daylight until dark. Mme. Emma Donovan has been at the quarters for several days, riding the famous menage and bucking horse, "Dan." The Ringlings have loaned him to the Orrin Brothers' Circus in Mexico, and Mme. Donovan will ride him in the domain of President Diaz until the opening of the circus season in the United States. John O'Brien, whose peer as a horse trainer is yet to be discovered, is slowly convalescing from a severe attack of pneumonia. He is being attended at this apartments by a professional nurse from Chicago and Mrs. Jennie O'Brien, who arrived from New York several days ago. Will Horton, who successfully handled the opposition brigade for the Ringling Brothers last season, is spending a few weeks at the quarters.
Notes from Waldo & Co.'s Shows. The management has just bought a number of dapple gray horses, to be used as a band wagon team. Everything around the show will be new from toe pin to band wagon. "Quality, not quantity" will be the watchword, but the latter will not be overlooked in securing the former. We will use an 80ft. top, with two 40ft. middle pieces, and will travel in our own specially designed cars. The following people have been engaged for season of 1903: Prof. H. M. Ewing's Military Band, Prof. Fred Darling's troupe of fifteen trained ponies and school of dogs, the Mardo Trio, acrobats and gymnasts; the Coles, aerialists and bounding rope act; Harry La Pearl, knockabout and talking clown; John ___, contortionist; __ Baker, revolving ladder and knockabout clown; Leona ___ and sister, single trapeze, cloud swing and breakaway ladder; J. R. Carr will have charge of canvas, with ten assistants; frank Cole, boss hostler; the executive staff consists of: Waldo & Co., proprietors; H. E. Harrison, manager; C. C. Shimp, treasurer.
Noes from Welch Bros.' winter quarters. The pride of the show at the present time is the new 60ft. advance advertising car, which is just finished and delivered from the Philadelphia shops. The car is an innovation in that line, inasmuch as it is radically different from all other billing vehicles. One end of the car contains the manager's office, and also staterooms for himself, press agent and stenographer. On one side of the main body of the car there are twelve double berths for the advertising men all arranged on the same plan as in the Pullman cars. The other end of the car contains the kitchen and dining room, which is furnished in modern style. Opposite this is a new steam calliope, which will be used to announce the arrival of the car in the various cities and town visited. The car is replete with elegant sanitary arrangements, including a bath room, lavatories, clothes closets, etc. It is one of the most costly cars ever used for a similar purpose, but the Messrs. Welch claim that the big outlay of money will bring them good results, and at the same time the excellent communications will stimulate the men on the car to better efforts in their daily work. The engagements for the "big show" programme are nearly completed. the executive staff of the show are now here, and will remain in Lancaster until the opening of the season. They are holding daily sessions in the business offices, and "geographical" and "paperology" branches are the principal studies engaged in at present. Kentucky's genuine Apache Indian band is engaged to furnish the harmony in the annex and outside shows. These sons of the forest will also appear in the daily street parades, mounted upon mustangs. Prof. John White has signed as equestrian director, with Al. Valenteen as asssistant. Clinton Newton, former equestrian director, will occupy the position of business manager. The weather here has been of the Alaskan order the past few weeks, but has not interferred with our daily rehearsals, which are going merrily on, and much practical work has been accomplished up to the present writing.
Notes from the Luella Forepaugh-Fish Wild West Shows. We are preparing to "weather any storm." The recent additions to the advance force are two of the oldest and best known circus agents, S. H. (Pop) Semon, the popular circus contracting agent, and the old "war horse," ___ Joseph. It certainly looks as though Gen'l Agent Harry W. Semon means to have on his staff capable and experienced agents.
New York Clipper, January 31, 1903, p. 1090. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Floyd Bernard, contortionist and slack wire performer, who was connected with Howe's Great London Shows last season, has signed with Campbell Bros. for the coming season. He is now at his home.
While boring a well for water at the winter quarters of the Great Pan-American Shows, Jan. _, natural gas was struck at a depth of two hundred and fifty feet. When ignited the blaze illuminated the surrounding country for several miles. Mr. Lemen recently acquired two hundred acres here, ___, Mo., which is twelve miles south of Kansas City. Three lines of railroad pass through the property, and electric and dummy lines connect with the city. Several large buildings have been erected, and more will be built next summer. When completed, the Pan-American Shows will have an ideal winter home, heated and lighted by natural gas. W. S. Dunnington will be in charge of advance car No. 1 the coming season; ___ will be local contractor, and ___Chipman will officiate in the ticket wagons, and also ___ after the representatives of the press.
Bartine Show notes. Things are progressing nicely. We are busy breaking a nice lot of ponies and dogs for next season, and will receive our new sleeping coach, one seventy foot combination stock and flat, and seventy foot flat cars from Chicago, on Jan. 26.
Walter L. Main notes. Hardly had the show been housed in the winter quarters at Geneva, O., at the close of the 1902 season, before he had seized the reins of reorganization for 1903, and when the road season opens it will find the Main Show the ___ of perfection. All the used circus and menagerie paraphernalia has been disposed of and the show will go out new from trapping boxes to ticket wagon. Not only will the show property be entirely new, but there will be many original ideas and features to please the people and astonish his brother showmen. The name, reputation and executive staff will be almost all that will be left of the show at the close of last season. A present the new and modern winter quarters can only be likened to an industrious village. Everything is hustle, and the master mind that directs the movements of the hundreds of workingmen is that of the "Governor" himself. Painters, decorators, skilled mechanica, wagon makers, car builders, carpenters, blacksmiths, are all as busy as the traditional ___, while the animal trainers and horse trainer are putting their pupils through a course of education daily that means perfection when the band plays. In the ring barn riders, acrobats and tumblers are practicing every morning and in the afternoon the unprecedented military spectacle follows it. Over two hundred people in the various departments are "wintering in quarters," and it is like one great family. Beyond all doubt the season of 1903 will find the Main Show as near perfection as capital and experience can make it. The paper is all new and of special design, and in the hands of two of the largest show printing houses in the country. Ed. C. ___ will again be general agent; John Gill, of Circleville, O., will direct the large band of forty pieces; Col. Hugh Harrison will have the privileges, and his right hand men will be James Harrison and Col. W. J. Elliott. R. H. Dockrill will again be equestrian director; Owen W. David is the "Governor's" private secretary; W. W. Poweres will be in evidence as usual; James Whalen will have the "tops," William Winner the menagerie, W. W. Scott the stock, and Dan Taylor wil be master mechanic. It is impossible at this early date to give a complete roster. Mr. Main's office in Geneva is literally ___ with applications and scores of personal applications are made daily. Five stenographers and typewriters are kept busy daily attending to correspondence. In the wardrobe ___ twelve seamstresses and as many sewing machines are kept busy getting ready the wardrobe. John Carey will be press representative of the Main Show this season. Mr. Carey has opened and closed seven seasons with Mr. Main, and will look after the press in advance for 1903. In the capacity of press agent Mr. Carey has made a host of friends. He is not oly a ___, but a fluent talker and an interesting writer.
Notes from Tanner Brothers' Great United R. R. Shows. Col. Dick Tanner has just finished training a wonderful animal act, undoubtedly one of the greatest dog and pony riding acts in the world. Besides this act he has under training other acts which will be ready for the opening of our show. The special scenery for the production of "Faust" is completed. Walter E. Dewey is busy with electrical effects and wardrobe for same. Chas. B. Dean is contacting musicians for his big clown band. Several performers of national fame have been booked for next season. The Great Martino will be one of our aerial features, also the Brothers Silverlake, aerial gymnasts. . . .
New York Clipper, February 7, 1903, p. 1103. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from America's Favorite Pavilion Shows. The Hibner Brothers have purchased large interests in this show, and will personally assist in the management of the different official departments during the tenting season of 1903. Work at the new winter quarters is porgressing nicely; the wagons are all in the paint shops and nearly finished. Eight lengths of new reserve seats have been added, and the new four centre pole big top has arrived. Oscas L. Hibner will have charge of the advance, as general contracting agent, with Earl Sage as chief bill poster, with five assistants. Willis E. Hibner will be master of transportation; Lon E. Hibner will direct the ring performance, and James Cheney, general business manager. The programme will be vaudeville, circus and trained animal displays. The best talent in the business is being signed, and everything is being done to make this the banner season in the history of the show. We open early in May, at Concordia, Kan., and work East to our old routes in Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio.
Notes from Hough & Howard's United shows. When the season of 1903 opens, Hough & Howard will present to the public an outfit second to none. They will have the largest show ever fauled upon four cars. Eight new wagons will soon be ready to leave the paint shop, and are certainly marvels of beauty. All the old wagons are receiving a general overhauling, and will be put in first class shape. The stock is in fine condition. Ten new ponies will be added next season, making thirty-three in all. Quite a number of last season's people will be with us again, including: Fred Lenon, treasurer . . . George Hartman . . . Fred Egener; Howard Townsend, band master . . . At the present time H. M. Howard is playing the leading vaudeville theatres through the East, with his troupe of ponies, dogs and monkeys, but will report at winter quarters in Marion, Ind., in time to help give things the finishing touch.
___ Carlos, formerly of Carlos Bros., has signed with the Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth for season of 1903.
Notes from Orton Bros.' Circus. We are getting ready for next season, and will go out with special paper, and will go out with special paper, except the large pictorial. There will be twenty-one head of horses and ponies with the show, three centre poles. A new band wagon, ticket and baggage wagon will be added this Spring. . . . R. Z. Orton, manager; Mrs. S. Orton, front door; Lawrence Orton, treasurer; ___ Orton, principal act and slack rope act; Lawrence Orton, single and double trapeze; Miles Orton, slack wire, slack rope clowning; Grace Orton, two pony act, menage and contortion; Nellie Orton, double traps, contortion and ladder; Master Bayard Orton, two horse and head balancing; R. Z. Orton, principal clown. There will be an eight horse ___, with ponies and children. Our cuts are all taken from photographs, and printed in our own printing office at ___. There are eight working people in the Orton family. We do not have to hire any one to give the show, and we all double in concert.
John H. Sparks, the well known circus proprietor, met a sad and untimely death at his winter home, Winston Salem, S.C., on Jan. 28. Mr. Sparks had several cages of animals at his resort, and among them two young lions, about two years of age, which he had trained, they being born while with the show throughout the South. On Sunday afternoon, Jan. 18, Mr. Sparks was stroking one of them through the bars of the cage (which he had done many times before), but this time the animal caught him by the right hand, and drawing the arm in the cage ___ it to the elbow. Blood poisoning set in, and on Jan. 24 amputation was necessary, and the arm was taken off at the shoulder, but it was of no avail, as Mr. Sparks did not survive the shock. After terrible suffering, he passed away on Jan. 28, at the above place. Mr. Sparks had been in the theatrical and circus business nearly twenty-five years, and of late years he had accumulated a good bit of wealth. He intended to retire from business, and devote his time to his other interests n the South. He was in the prime of life, being about forty years of age. His body was brought to his late home in East Brady, Pa., for interment, the funeral taking place from the residence of his brother-in-law, J. Morrison, on Saturday morning. He leaves a wife and four children to mourn his death. Chas. Sparks now had charge of the show.
Mr. and Mrs. Dan O'Brien will celebrate their silver wedding on Wednesday evening, Feb. 11, at their residence in New York.
Frank Ellet, of the Marvelous Ellet Troupe, is a Pittsburg, Pa., having an apparatus made for their big aerial bar act for next season.
Notes from Cap. Stewart's Big 10 and 20 Cent Vaudeville Circus. We have commenced to paint and get ready for our opening, April __, here at Fort Wayne, Ind. We have engaged several good performers and musicians. . . . We have five baggage wagons, two three seasted carryalls, two two-seated carryalls, two one-seated carriages, one ticket wagon, two pony and donkey carts, and one bill wagon. We will use nine tires of star foot and back rest reserved seats. We will carry a white band, also a colored band. The colored band will ___ stage in "cake walks," jubilee singing and buck and wing dancing. We will open April __, and traverl overland till June 1; then we get our fine seventy-four foot palace car. The car will be so arranged that we can feed and sleep thirty people on one half of the car, and carry all the outfit in the other half.
New York Clipper, February 14, 1903, pp. 1140, 1141, 1143. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Miles Orton Big Southern Shows. We have been touring Georgia and Florida for the last ten weeks, in our own special cars, and have been meeting with the best of success everywhere. We are receiving the finest kind of praise, both from the press and public, as having the best show ever seen in this territory. Roster: Miles Orton, sole owner; Gus Fairbanks, general manager; Floyd Trover, general contracting agent, with four men; R. W. Abbott, charge of country route; Norman Orton, treasurer; Myron Orton, charge of side show door; Barney Shea, Morris De Castro and Ded. Davenport, side show orators; Chas. Cooper, general superintendent; Dick Richards, boss canvas man, and ten assistants; Geo. Ducie, in charge of stock; Sam Harris, train master; Chas. Moore, chef; Harry Armstrong, band leader and ten men; Chas. Harris, charge of concert; Ed. Dorsesy, mail man; Mrs. Chas. Cooper, charge of reserved seats; Miles Orton, equestrian director. Performers: Miles Orton's troupe of trained horses, ponies, mules, dogs and monkeys; Norman Orton, principal act, carrying act and mule hurdle; Myron Orton, wire and trapeze; Mike Orton, cloud swing and trapeze; the Famous Orton Children (Iva and Clarence), juvenile aerialists; Barney Shea, principal clown, with a host of fun makers; Elva Armstrong, trapeze and serio comic; Ira Orton, pony act and menage; and the Armstrong Family, original Swiss bell ringers. At Key West, Fla., the boys enjoyed salt water baths in the surf, as we showed there week of Jan. 18, to big business, and the sea trip was enjoyed immensely by the members of the company. A funny instance occurred at Port ___, where we embarked from the train to the steamer. The second cook got as far as the gang plank with his grip, when he was heard to remark: "Heur's whare I turns back," and he back tracked. About three more weeks of the sunny South, then we will head for the New England States. We all regret the death of our esteemed friend, John H. Sparks. We were in the immediate vicinity of the Sparks Show at the time. The news reached us like a thunder clap.
Jas. A. Morrow, manager of side show and concert for the Sig. Sautelle Big R. R. Shows, has returned to winter quarters at Homer, N.Y., from a ten days' trip to New York and Boston. He reports having signed some of the best museum and side show attractions in America for the coming season. He has also purchased sixteen new band suits and minstrel first part settings for his Georgia coon shouter and musicians.
Frank H. Showell, contracting agent, and Prof. Park's dogs and ponies have signed for the coming season with Lee Bros.' Shows.
Oscar Lowande has bought an acre of land, with a seven room house on it, in Reading, Mass.
Sidney Shepard, of the "Two Married Men" Co. (Eastern), will close with that company about Feb. 22, and with his two goats and novelty patrol wagon will join his partner, Max Hugo. They will be seen in the circus arena as "Happy Hooligan and the Jew" at the beginning of next season.
Frank Decker, comedy juggler and acrobat, has signed with the Great Barlow Show for the circus season of 1903, making his second season with that show. The show opens April __, at South Milford, Ind.
"True Tales of the Sawdust Ring," by Charles H. Day, the old circus man, is the title of a series of article written for Collier's Weekly.
We are in receipt of the following letter, which will doubtless be endorsed by showmen generally: "To the Editor: We desire to call your attention to the fact that every year there is a from of swindling pursued by shrewd scallawags which victimizes the trade your journal represents. Their method is to go into a city and represent themselves as an agent of some one of the leading circuses of the country and make contracts with ___ butchers, liverymen, bill posters, printers, and others, with whom the circuses usually deal for supplies for the show. They usually have blank forms of contracts, which they have printed and carry with them. After they have once made their contract, they borrow money. Of course the victim ordinarily does not receive a contract, not does he ever get a return of his money. All credited agents of our institution, and we believe of all other responsible amusement institutions, carry credentials and means of identification, which bear upon their face a photograph of the agent as well as his signature and the signature of our firm. No agents of our shows are permitted under any conceivable circumstaances, ___ to borrow money or to accept commissions from anyone, and an attempt of anyone to do either may be regarded as proof positive that the supposed agent is a fraud and should be dealt with accordingly. We have already received letters from various persons stating that they have been visited by these self styled agents, which fact shows that they are already at work. . . . Very truly yours, J. A. Bailey."
___ Rees Baretta, the veteran clown, will put out a show this season. He and ___ Richards have joined hands, and are busily engaged putting things in shape for an early start. It will be known as Rees & Richards' Unique Shows, and will tour Louisiana, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee and Mississippi. They are organizing at Alexandria, La., and will carry a __ft. round top, with 40ft. middle piece, and put up a show equal to any on the road of its size.
Chas. E. Forrest will act as general agent the coming season for the M. S. Clark Combined Shows [sic M. L. Clark], which will be larger than ever. We arrived in winter quarters at Alexandria, La., a few days ago, after a very profitable season, and everyone is well. After a rest of six weeks, we will take the road again.
Harry Moore will be the 1903 press agent for Campbell Bros.' Shows, his second season.
Notes from Buckskin Bill Wild West Shows. Lew Nichols will manage the two side shows and concert the season of 1903. Tomas Fry will be superintendent of canvas. All the canvas with the show will be new this season. The old canvas was burned in Murry & Co.'s fire. The side show will be one of the largest on the road, with over forty people employed in side show alone. All the harness and everything around the show will be new. The show will use twenty-two cars, and will be one of the finest Wild West shows on the road next season.
W. E. Sands will be manager of the No. 1 advertising car, for the season of 1903, of the Luella Forepaugh-Fish Wild West Shows.
Everything is progressing in fine shape at the winter quarters of the Frank B. Hubin's New United Shows, at Atlantic City, N.J. The new advance car will leave the shops in a few days. It will be one of the finest advance cars on the road, and will create a big impression along the line, and will more than pay for itself in the advance of the coming show. Manager Frank B. Hubin was in New York the past week, looking after his consignment of animals which arrived Jan. __, and reports everything arrived O.K. The season will open early in April, and wills steer clear of the big ones the coming season.
Del Fuego has signed for the coming season with the Luella-Forpaugh-Fish Wild West Show for the concert.
Notes from the Luella Forepaugh-Fish Wild West. Our new winter quarters, located at Prairie Ave. and Second St., St. Louis, consisting of car repair shop, painters' department, harness room, animal house, wagon and blacksmith shops, and a stable, with a capacity of three hundred head of horses, now presents a scene of activity. The bosses of all departments are now here, and the rivalry existing between them as to who will have the best equipped department is very interesting. Another car of wild beasts, two elephants, six camels, and a pair of driving elk arrive this week. We are daily expecting our herd of genuine full blooded buffalo. Fifteen cages and four open dens arrived today. A firm is buildng us a three thousand dollar calliope, which they claim will be the finest ever turned out. George Forepaugh, John Kent and Chas. Tompkins are off in different sections of the country buying horses. Our European representative cabled that he ahd secured some astonishing novelties, together with a troop of Russian Cossack cavalry, and a band of Arabian warriors, acrobats and perilious riders. Our Indian village will be a feature, showing all the industries of the Indian race, bucks, squaws, maidens and papooses in abundance. The advance is in the capable hands of Harry W. Semon, who will be the railroad contractor and general agent. His staff includes: S. H. (Pop) Semon, Saml. H. Joseph, W. E. Sands, W. L. Sherrill, Phil W. Stinson, Geo. Chandler, Fred Green and sixty billposters. Our printing is nearly all completed, and will be a revelation in designs, magnificence in colors and abundant in quantity. It may not be generally known that this show will carry a fully equipped menagerie, consisting of twenty-two cages, five open dens, elephants, camels, driving elk, buffalos, and wild steers. Our train will consist of four Pullman sleepers, one sleeper for Indians, one sleeper for working men, eight sixty foot flats, six 60ft. stock, and two advance cars.
The will of Nate Salsbury was filed for probate in the Surrogate's office at Long Branch, N.J., Feb. 6. He had personal property there to the amount of $210,000, but no real estate. There are two sons and two daughters living, Nathan, Milton, Rachel and Rebecca Salsbury. The will, which was executed in 1890, provides that all the testator's estate, including his interests in the Milner Live Stock Company fo Montanta, and Buffalo Bill's Wild West Shows, shall be divided "to support his family." Mrs. Rachel Salsbury, the widow, is made sole legatee. Milton Milner is named as sole executor, and is empowered to make "such investments as will yield the largest possible income consistent with safety." It is understood that Mr. Milner has renounced his executorship in favor of Mrs. Salsbury.
Notes from the Great Canada Frank's Shows, F. M. Myers, manager. Everything is beginning to look in fine shape around the winter quarters. The manager returned from a four days' visit to Omaha, Neb. While there he purchased the 60ft. combination coach that was advertised in the Old Reliable. The manager will have it repainted throughout, and when finished it will be a first class show car, and will accommodate twenty-four people for sleeping, eating and room for all tents and baggage in one end, thereby doing away with all wagons. We will open our season here in our home town, Upton, about May 2, and play Iowa, the Dakotas and Minnesota.
Mary Jane Feary [sic Deery?], widow of Alexander Robinson, a circus man, and professionally known as Mme. Marie Robinson, died in Utica, N.Y., on Feb. 3. She was reported to be the first woman to tame lions. Her birthplace was Charleston, S.C., and she was over eighty years of age.
New York Clipper, February 21, 1903, p. 1163. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Big Twenty Cent Show. Winter quarters at Homer, N.Y. present a scene of activity. In fact, a stranger passing by would think it was a separate village. Wagon, carpenter, blacksmith, wheelwright, harness and car shops on one side of the road, on the other are superintendent's dwelling, workmen's hom and bosses' headquarters, animal house, ring barn and three large stables. . . . Every department is working to its capacity, getting ready for the coming tenting season, and, with good luck, we will be ready for the road fully three weeks before our opening date, May 1. Twenty-five parade wagons left the paint shops, and are stored in Mr. Sautelle's storage buildings, there to remain until the opening. Others will follow in a few days, and new ticket, band, tableaux ___, pole and baggage wagons are now in course of construction. Our tent maker in New York wires that the new 150ft. round top, with four 50ft. middle pieces, will be ready ten days before the opening. Most of the leading acts have been booked for both the big show, Wild West and side shows. A most deplorable accident occurred in the animal house, Feb. 2. Harry Reeves, our new animal and horse trainer, was inside the cage occupied by Cleopatra, a very large Bengal tiger, attempting to break her to an act, and, in leaving the cage, the infuriated beast sprang upon him, getting one paw upon his head, the other on his shoulder, and her jaws upon his arm, tearing his flesh frightfully. His danger was recognized by four of the animal men, who at once proceeded to beat the animal back, but not a minute too soon. Mr. Reeves' escapt from death was most remarkable. He is at the Cortland Hospital, with private doctors and nurses, and the present indications give us hopes of a speedy recovery. The tiger has only been in this country a short time, and was one of Mr. Sautelle's new purchases. Mr. Reeves says he will again attempt to break her as soon as he can return to his duties. Registered at the Sautelle Hotel are: Fred Butcher, Dan Travers, secretary; James Shipman, superintendent; Wm. Parker, boss canvas man; Thorpe Sisters, Addie Travers, Ettie Morrow, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Staples, Willis Travers, Al. C. Foster and Jas. A. Morrow, manager of side show and concert. Mr. and Mrs. Sig. Sautelle are residing at their new purchase, the Commercial House, Cortland, N.Y.
W. C. Cox does not go with the Walter L. Main Show, as has been reported.
Notes from Bonheur Bros. Our merry musical comedians are doing a fine business on tour in the territories this week. A our quarters in Augusta, the work of training new stock is going on at a lively rate. Prof. Merle and assistants are busy on the troupe of Shetlands, to finish their education before the Spring opening. A large number of dogs, goats and monkeys are also receiving their schooling at the ring barn in the quarters, and new acts have been devised for them. The very swellest printing is being used in the advertising of the winter show.
Notes from the Harris Circus. We open our twenty-first season at Valdosta, Ga., Feb. 26, and after playing four weeks in Florida will start North over our usual territory. The outift has been thoroughly overhauled and put into first class shape, and presents a splendid appearance and will no doubt get the regular nickel plate business, which has been always good, band times or good times.
___ Lano and wife have signed with Sun Bros.' No. 2 R. R. Show. Mr. Lano will take charge of the side show, and Mrs. Lano and Babe Lano are booked for the concert, also.
Wm. Gilman writes that he will be with the opposition brigade of the Great Wallace Shows again this season. He is now ahead of Lincoln J. Carter's "Darkest Hour," and reports phenomenal business for this attraction, which is en route to the Pacific coast.
New York Clipper, March 14, 1903, p. 74. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
There arrived in this country last week, from Liverpool, eighty-three circus people, mostly girls, who are to perform with the Barnum & Bailey Circus the coming season. Fifty of the girls were bellet dancers, about a dozen other singers, while a sextet of young men and woman constitute what is known as the Almonte troupe of acrobats.
D. D. La Barra, of the Five La Barra Bros., acrobats and aerialists, has signed with the Sun Bros. Circus for the coming season, to do a contortion and ring act, and to double alto in band.
Bartine & De Onzo notes. The parade of the Chas. Bartine & De Onzo Railroad Shows for the season of 1903 will be a neat affair, and something out of the ordinary. It will be led by two drum majors, and a drum and bugle corps of eight men in flashy uniforms. Then comes Prof. J. Dell Smith's Navy Band of twenty-four first class musicians, in white navy uniforms. The instruments will consist of five cornets, three clarionets, two piccolos, four altos, four slide trombones, two euphoniums, one tuba, snare and bass drum and cymbals, to be followed by all the ring stock, ponies and mules, in beautiful trapping, trained goats, dogs, sheep, pigs and monkeys, clowns, etc., with "Happy Hooligan" in his cab, with his two comical trained donkeys in the rear. The show will make all one day stands, and tour Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois and Iowa, traveling in their own special cars. The company will be composed of some of the best people in the profession.
Harry Bell and Lottie Richards, musical team, are this season going with the "Greatest on Earth," as a feature of the side show. Mr. Bell's new instrument, he informs us, is a phenomenal success. He calls it the Bellephone.
A. H. Reed's Shows notes. We open our twenty-first season April 4, and will cover our usual territory. Painters, blacksmiths, harness makers and wheelwrights have finished their work and left for their homes. Everything is in perfect condition, ready for out opening date. Great care has been taken to secure experienced men to head the different departments, several novelties have been engaged for the big show, and as it looks today the season of 1903 will find A. H. Reed with the larget, cleanest and best wagon show he ever put together. Five new wagons have been added, making this a twenty-four wagon show, with fifty-five head of horses, twelve trained ponies and a troupe of trained dogs, goats and sheep, in charge of Viola Reed. There will be fifty-two people back with the show. J. Geo. Hudgins will have charge of the advance, with four bill posters; one agent's single buggy, and two double bill wagons will make up the advance, which will be well guarded. Our printing has arrived and will be mostly all special work this season. The big show canvas will be 80ft., with two 30ft. middle pieces, also new. The side show, cook and horse tents used last season were stored away in dry quarters duing the winter and are in A1 condition. All of the stock is in perfect health, and it does seem at the present time that there is not one thing needed but a bright, warm day to make our opening a grand success. Since we went into winter quarter last November, we have not had a single case of sickness, nor has an accident occurred to man or beast. We are waiting to hear our band play, and we look for a prosperous season.
Prof. Merle has been engaged by Bonheur Bros.' Circus as equestrian director. At the close of the season he states that he will place in vaudeville one of the strongest and most sensational dog and monkey acts. He is at present located at August, O. T., winter quarters of Bonheur Bros.' Shows.
Notes from Lucky Bill's winter quarters. Everything is progressing nicely, and all work is being brought to a close. The finishing touches are being put on, and things shaped up for our opening, which takes place on March 28. We have received a fine lot of paper, and our advance brigade will have no trouble in letting the people know that the Lucky Bill Show is coming. People with the show this season are: the Wings, aerialists; Willard and Willard, rolling globe and juggling; Zat Zam and Mowra, impalement act; Mr. and Mrs. F. L. Granger, musical; J. J. Van Housen, impersonator, and Lucky Bill, with his big act of trained ponies, dogs and monkeys. Our orchestra will be under the direction of Mrs. Granger, and will be one of the features of the show. The band will be under the direction of F. L. Granger.
Prof. Casper, of the troupe of Venetian Glass Blowers, which has been connected with the Buffalo Bill Side Show for a number of seasons, has been engaged with the Welsh Bros.' Circus, to appear in the side show as the "soap king."
Bonheur Bros.' notes. Another very bad blizzard struck our indoor Winter show at Cheyenne, Okla. Ter., on Feb. 24. The company had to travel over a rough country twenty-five miles inland to reach Cheyenne. The opera house takes the whole upper floor of the court house, a very large room, which was packed to its limit by a typical Western audience on the night of Feb. 23. Reserved seats were sold next day until all were taken, and in spite of the raging blizzard and the ___ of clay mud a big audience again greeted us the second night. Three large monkeys for training were added to the Bonheur Bros.' Show last week. They will be educated for riding acts with Shetland ponies. A red goat, called Ruby, will be added to the wonderful troupe of trained goats at winter quarters.
John H. Andrews, side show talker, last season with Bostock's Carnival Co., sailed March 28 for London, Eng., to join Buffalo Bill's Wild West.
Notes from Indian Bill's Wild West. R. B. Smith (Diamond) goes with the above show this season. Wyoming Jack, Nebraska Neil, Kansas Kid, Trixie, and Russel and 4 Paw are among the latest to sign. We will have three Pullman sleeping cars in our train. Everything is humming at winter quarters - painters, carpenters and harness makers hold full sway.
Manager Mont Voranzo writes: "Jessie Leona De Alvin will be known hereafter as Leona Maxuma, in her male impersonations, Indian fire club swinging, and statue work. This lady is the only Arabian male impersonator in America. Mazuma Ben Rahamarman, the Arabian giat, and Leona Mazuma go with Campbell Bros.' Circus the coming season. They are direct from the city of Cairo, Egypt. Mazuma Ben Rahamarman is a wonder of Oriental magic. The De Alvin Midgets (Harry and Georgie) go with the same show."
Notes from the Pawnee Bill Wild West. A visit to Carnegie, Pa., where the winter quarters of Pawnee Bill are located, will convince the most skeptical that Major Lillie is preparing to put out the largest and best show he has ever directed. Scores of people are at work and the bosses are all busy in their various departments. Ten new sixty foot cars have been purchased, and the canvas, harness and many wagons will be entirely new. Nearly three car loads of work horses have been added, and the coming summer will prove conclusively that Pawnee Bill is making rapid strides, and is well entitled to be placed in the list of really good shows. Mr. Krause, the general manager, is on the go all the time. Mr. Ferguson, the general agent, has his plans completed for an active campaign in advising amusement patrons as to the quality and magintude of Pawnee Bill's Historic Wild West. Sam. M. Dawson, who is now with Gus Hill's "A Hot Old Time" Co., will join us as agent in May.
New York Clipper, March 21, 1903, p. 88. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Mighty Haag Shows, Circus, Museum and Menagerie. We inaugurate our eighth annual tour at Shreveport, La., March 14. The show will travel by wagons, overland, the same as it always has, requiring one hundred and twenty-five head of horses. The spread on the lot consists of 100ft. round top, with two 50ft. middle pieces; menagerie, 70ft., with two thirties; side show 35x70ft., with one hundred feet of double deck banners. In the rear a long line of horse tents, dining and cook tents, requiring five acres of ground to get everything up. The parade consists of twenty-three cages, tableaux and chariots, four open dens, two bands, and the usual array of mounted people, tandem teams and trained stock. All of the chariots, dens, tableaux and cages are from the best manufacturers, with heavy carved designs, scrolls and images, the handiwork of skilled labor, finished with gold and silver leaf, every one being new and as good as the best with any one of the greatest. There is no second hand or discarded property used with the show in any department. It would require a train of twenty-two cars to handle this show by rail. Its territory is in the Southern States exclusively. Those who are informed in regard to the railroad tariffs of the Southern lines will understand why this sized show is being handled by wagons, instead of rail. The winter quarters are situated just outside of the city limits of Shreveport, on Fairfield Avenue, which is one of the principal thoroughfares of the city, being paved, and the street cars run within a short distance of the grounds. Five fireproof buildings are required to winter the show, each being 30x80ft. A beautiful residence, with fine lawns and concrete walks leading up to it, consitutes the winter home of the Haag Shows. Miles Berry has the privileges with the show this season.
The Peerless Falkiners have signed for the coming season with the Walter L. Main Shows, to do their novelty hoop rolling and juggling act. "We have," they write, "several new tricks and ideas that will make our act the largest of its kind."
Roster of the Bartine & De Onzo Railroad Shows. Chas. Bartine and Wm. De Onzo, proprietors; M. Williams, general railroad and contracting agent; Chas. Bartine, general manager; Wm. De Onzo, assistant manager; Juan D. Zamora, equestrian director; Ed. Spencer, general advertising agent, with eight bill posters and two lithographers; Prof. J. Dell Smith, band master. Performers: Zamora Mexican Family, the Le Monts, Pearl Mont, Eddy Martyne, Eddy Sawyer, De Onzo Bros., the Lamayoas, South American aerialists; J. B. Blakely, Doc Morris, Emma Snyder; O. A. Tanner's Troupe of trained ponies, goats and monkeys; the Bartine Family, Mr. Bartine's stud of trained horses, mules and donkeys; Logan Venters, F. E. Paulas, N. T. Newton, Pearl Colwell, Addie Fenton, Geo. Bietsler, and Al. Sandford. The show will open at Connersville, May 14, and will travel in our own specially equipped cars, touring Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois and Iowa.
Rays from Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows. Mike Carey has charge of the paint shop, and he is doing some fine decorating. Mr. Carey came from Pittsburg, Pa., especially to do this job. Otto Summerfield has charge of the blacksmith shop, and the wagon repairs this year have been well done. The wardrobe and other department work is being pushed. All tents will be new for both shows. A car load of draught horses have just arrived, also F. E. Marvin, our new boss hostler. Uncle Bill Randolf will act as veterinary surgeon. Thos. D. Van Osten, manager of No. 2 show, joins Pete Sun in Mississippi on March 18. J. L. Lamberto has reported, and is assisting Geo. Sun at Norfolk. All paper for the season of 1903 is finished, and without a question is the finest line of printing with any small show in America.
E. Chas. Mullen has signed for the advance force of Ringling Bros. for the season.
Will F. Neff leaves the "Silver Dagger" Co., with which he has been in advance all this season, and opens with the Barnum & Bailey show for the season.
Delmont and his troupe of skaters have signed with the Walter L. Main Show.
Bernardo and ___ are at work building a new net for their aerial bar act, and Vivian D'Arra is working on her flying Spanish ring act at their quarters in Bloomington, Ill.
Notes from Indian Bill's Wild West. Progress is the word at our winter quarters in Pittsburg. The painting is being done under the direction of Bob Roberts. When this show is ready to take the road it will be a surprise to many, as it will be a swell outfit. Pawnee Bill and Col. M. H. Welsh were welcome visitors at winter quarters last week. R. B. Smith (Diamond) will be with this show the coming season. Among the latest to sign may be mentioned: Alice Clifford, Wyoming Jack, Nebraska Neil, W. C. Lane, David Lowe, Toklomotos Royal Japanese Troupe, Myra Deane and J. W. Kelly and wife, and for the advance: Richard Armstrong, Chester Wank and David Derringer. General agent Whittier is on a business trip West,and reports that he has already closed some railroad contracts in choice territory. He will meet manager Jones in Chicago, on March 21,and together they will make a short prospecting tour in the Northwest.
Notes from the New Big Triple Plate R. R. Shows. This show will inaugurate its opening day April 23, at Lock Haven, Pa. Nothing is being spared to make it one of the most complete tented exhibitions that will show at the "two bit" price the coming season. Everything will be new and not an old act or feature will be found with the Triple Plate. The annex department will be under the management of Prof. Harry Delmo. The musical organization of this exhibition will be one of the principal features, and will be under the personal direction of L. J. Chamberlain. The daily street parade will be found a novelty, and many new ideas will be found in the department of our exhibitions. The show will be under the management of the Chamberlain Bros., and although not among the largest on the road, it will pay the knowing ones to keep an eye on the Triple Plate.
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Indoor Winter Shows. We were billed for two and three night stands in the Territories, and were almost snowed under in roger Mills County, Okla., by a driving snowstorm, which lasted three days and nights. The snow was over twenty inches deep when the show left Cheyenne, on Feb. __. Cheyenne is a county seat town, twenty-five miles from any railroad, but in a cattle country abounding in wealth. The show did a fine business for two nights, in spite of bad weather and heavy snow, which is a very unusual thing in this country. This winter show travels in a carryall, with a long trunk wagon to follow, and is preceded a week in advance by a bill wagon, with advance adjuster, who bills like a circus. Winn W. Trousdale is doing a refined silly kid turn, if this act may be classes as such. It is an imitation of one of the ludicrous simpletons that amuse people of taste. The Musican Brennans are favorites, and gain an ovation of applause at every appearance. The Komical Kanine Kollege, consisting of a troupe of ten trained dogs, especially educated for opera house work, are splendidly equipped with swell props, and do some very fine work.
New York Clipper, March 28, 1903, pp. 111, 123. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Niblos, Mons. and Marie, have signed with the Cole Younger & Frank James Wild West Circus.
Notes from Tanner Bros.' Great United Railroad Shows. Col. Dick Tanner has returned from a trip over a portion of our territory for the coming season, and reports that all is clear sailing for the "big show." Our new band wagon has arrived, and some animals are due to reach us this week. Our world's colossal museum, under the personal direction of the well known Harry Dickinson, will be one of the largest and best equipped side shows ever operated in the West. J. St. Belmo will have charge of our canvas, and is now at winter quarters, lending his assistance in all affairs pertaining to the big top. Everything is taking on new color, and in a short time "the great united" will be ready to appear in all its gorgeous, glittering grandeur.
Gentry Bros.' notes. C. S. Primrose has closed as manager of "The Hottest Coon in Dixie" Co., and has joined Gentry Bros.' Famous Show, No. 1, as general agent and traffic manager. This makes his eighth season with Gentry Bros.' Shows. Jno. L. Glennan has signed for the season as general agent and traffic manager of their No. 2 show, this being the second season for Mr. Glennan with the Gentry Bros.' Shows. He has surrounded himself with eight capable assistants. John E. Richardson, who has been wintering in Bloomington, Ind., has decided to remain with the No. 2 show.
Chas. Berkell, proprietor of the Berkell Show, has concluded not to take out his circus the coming season, and has sold his entire outfit to Emil Seibel, of Watertown, Wis. Mr. and Mrs. Berkell left Des Moines, Ia., Feb. 28, for California. In the party were Lena Kline, C. C. Matthews, Mlle Dair and Frank O'Neill, who have been with Mr. Berkell for years. They are now in San Francisco, sight seeing. Mr. Berkell will open under canvas April _, near San Francisco.
Sells & Downs notes. It is reported that a man is going through the State of Indiana representing himself as local contractor for Sells & Downs' United Shows, and called on some dealers in Anderson, Ind., recently. This firm has no one on the road.
Mrs. Joe W. Cousins has perfected her iron jaw act.
Martin Milligan, of Proctor's theatres, has signed as lithographer with Sun Bros. Shows.
Potter and Harris have been obliged to cancel eight weeks' work in the South, on account of signing with A. H. Reed's Circus, to open April 4 and close Nov. 1.
Harry Dickinson has the side show privilege with Tanner Bros.' Circus this season.
Pan-American Show notes. W. S. Dunnington has engaged eighteen first class bill posters for advertising car No. 1, also twelve for advertising car No. 2, and eight for the opposition brigade. They are all union men, and are in good standing with their respective unions. E. J. ___ has been engaged as general local contractor.
Leopold's Great London R. R. Show notes. The following people have been engaged: the Inmans, contortionists; Leonard Clark, slack wire and trapeze; Patten and Morris, sketch. The outfit is a 60ft. round tip, 30ft. middle piece, and will carry twenty-five people, featuring Prof. De Kalb's band of fourteen pieces. The show will travel by rail, and the advance will be headed by Will S. Beecher, our genial and obliging pilot. The show opens May 22, touring New York, Pennsylvania and Maryland.
Bret Shanklin, contortionist, has signed with Tanner Bros.' Show for the coming season.
Doc Waddell, advance and contracting agent, has signed with the New Big Triple Plate Shows for the coming season. The following performers have also been engaged: Joe West and Ida May Lewis, producing the only act; the Depontas (Joe and Mae), hoop rolling and club swinging; the Troys (Jack and Bessie), with their troupe of educated dogs, ponies and goats; the Wilsons (Fred and Mabel), king and queen of the trapeze; the Great Lenni, aerial contortionist and comedian; Haines and ___, in their up to date singing and dancing specialities; and the Howard Brothers, baton swingers and gun jugglers. A band and orchestra of fifteen musicians will also be carried with this organization.
Chas. E. Griffin and all the other privilege people with the Buffalo Bill Show will sail March 28 for England, to open with the show, under canvas, at Manchester, April __. The season at London closes April 4.
___ Bernard, who was with Howe's Great London Shows last season, has signed with Campbell Bros.' Shows. Next season he will be with Gus Sun's American Minstrels.
Roster of Sun Brothers' (No. 2) World's Progressive Shows. Sun Brothers, proprietors; Thos. D. Van Osten, manager; Jack Bledsoe, advance representative; J. L. Lambert, treasurer; Prof. C. F. Brown, band director; D. H. Lano, museum manager; H. J. Simerson, superintendent of canvasa; F. A. Gilliam, equestrian director. Performers and musicians signed are: the Gilliam Family, the Irvings, Josie Brown, J. W. Dillon, Ajax, the Great Lamberts, Chas. Willis, John Walters, Kennard Walters, Frank Lyton, B. F. Harrington, A. E. Bisby, Geo. Block, Mrs. Lana and Little Irene, Sherwell Rice, Fred C. Hubbell and Martin Milligan. This show opens April 4, with all new tents and all special paper. This is a three car show, and willrun continuous.
Jack Ray Dee has signed with Smith's Imperial Circus, to do his slack wire and clubs. This will make his third consecutive season with the show.
[Ad] Wanted, circus acts, for Potter & Rice's Atheneum Circus, opening at Paducah, Ky. May 11, with Ferari Bros.' Carnival Co. . . . All week stands . . . Address, Potter & Rice, 346 Wabash Ave., care National, Chicago, Ill.
New York Clipper, April 4, 1903, p. 136. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Tuttle's Olympia Show. This is the fifteenth season for this little show, and so far it has proved a success. We open at Conneaut Lake, May 2. We will carry several of our old performers again this season. Besides the road show, Mrs. A. F. Tuttle and daughter (Jessie Troy) will have an attraction at Conneaut Lake Park during the season.
Tony Ashton writes: "We open here (London, Ind.) April 27, with 60ft. tope, 30ft. middle piece, state show, vaudeville and dog circus, playing Indiana and Illinois, three day and week stands. Will carry eighteen people, travel by rail, have plenty of good paper and a hustling agent."
Geo. S. Ely's Show notes. We open our fourteenth season the last part of April, and will travel through Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa. Great care has been taken this season to secure only experienced men to head the different departments, and several novelties has been engaged for the big show. There will be thirty-five people, all told, with the show. All the stock is in better shape than ever before. All the wagons, fourteen in number, have been rebuilt and painted. Our top will be a 60ft., with a 30ft. middle; horse tent 45ft. round top; cook house 14x30. We will carry thirty-five head of stock. The show this season will be the best vaudeville circus Mr. Ely has ever had. The performers and musicians are the best that money could obtain. We are ready and waiting for the opening day.
Notes from Indian Bill's Wild West. As our opening day draws near the heads of all department are exerting themselves to have all details completed in first class shape. General manager Augustus Jones is on a trip to Chicago, buying horses. Aleck Jones is in the Dakotas, purchasing saddle stock. A new band wagon and a tableaux wagon arrived at winter quarters last week. Capt. Wm. Powers (Indian Bill) will return to winter quarters about April 15, with a consignment of Indians from the Indian Territory. Recent visitors were: P. P. Craft, J. F. McCabe and Lieut. David Lowe. Doc. Ogden will have a two hundred foot front on his annex department, which will be new and novel in construction.
New York Clipper, April 11, 1903, pp. 167, 170. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
C. A. Clarke has signed as contracting agent with the Sells & Downs Shows.
H. Stanley Lewis and wife open their seventh consecutive season with Welsh Bros. at Lancaster, Pa., April 18, Mr. Lewis having charge of the advertising department, and Mrs. Lewis of the reserved seats.
Martin and Crouch, comedy acrobats, have signed for the season with Busby Bros.' Circus, to do their act, also clowning.
Thomas Nelson, of the Ryan-Zurella troupe, with Barnum & Bailey's Circus, hurt himself in turning a double somersault at Madison Square Garden, Wednesday afternoon, April 1, and it was stated that he had torn the ligaments of his knee. Toto Siegrist took his place in the Ryan-Zorella act.
Charley Palmer, female impersonator, has signed with Robinson's Circus for next season. He will go to Louisville, Ky., for rehearsals April 14.
Lola (Topsy) Mitchell, and her partner, Flora Stephens, closed with the Marie De Wolf Co. at Lakeland, Fla., March 18. They have signed with manager R. Bowman for the circus season.
Roster and notes from Colorado Grant's Railroad Shows, Colorado Grant, proprietor and manager. The show has been touring the South all winter, and playing to good business, being a big hit everywhere. Everyone with the show is well, and all enjoyed a very pleasant winter's engagement. We are at present on our way North for the summer season. The show is much larger and better this season, has just added a new car, and will have two rings and an elevated stage. Gus Gurkins is boss canvas man, with twenty assistants; Charley Mason is boss canvas man on side show, with six assistants; George ___ is general agent ahead of the show, with ten bill posters; Fatty Saunders is master of transportation; Irish Flanerty is boss property man, with seven assistants; Prof. Leadman, and his famous band of twelve mouth pieces is a big feature with the show. The roster of the performers: Jess Morton, general equestrian director; Mr. Grant, in his famous fifteen horse drill act; Charles Axley, hand balancer, contortionist and comedy juggler; Bertha Wolfhagen, flying rings and contortion act; Sam Stanfield and his troupe of ten educated spotted ponies; Billy Johnson, slack wire and trapeze; Jess Morton, triple horizontal bar expert; Mrs. Grant and her troupe of educated dogs and goats; John Lavier, contortionist and slace wire; ___ and Morton, Chinese table act; Sanfield and Johnson, revolving ladder and double trapeze; Eddie Vernell, principal tumbler and knockabout clown; Bob ___, singing and talking clown.
Notes from the Cap. Stewart Show. We are now ready to open in Fort Wayne, Ind., April 17. All our traps have been newly painted, and look as clean and neat as a pin. We will use two seventy-four foot cars to transport the big little. We will carry a fine little band of six mouth pieces, and travel our old route, Indiana, Ohio and Michigan.
Notes from Gentry Bros.' No. 2 Show, under the management of W. D. Tarkington. We opened the season at Pensacola, Fla., March 7, and are making a complete tour of the state, to excellent business. . . .
Roster of the J. H. Morgan Show. Everything is now in shape for the opening of Morgan's Big R. R. Shows, which takes place April 10. Everything is new from bale ring to stake. We will carry about fifty people with the show, which will make this organization much larger and better. The big top is a 60ft., with a 30ft., dressing room __ft., cook top, and 40x30ft. sleeping tent. We will make our old route this season, playing Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas and Louisiana, closing about Dec. 20. Executive staff: J. H. Morgan, proprietor and manager; Carl Sisters (Minnie and Clara), contortionists; Roy Fortune, one legged slack wire and aerial act; Ed. Morgan, black face, Dutch and Irish; the Delmains (Frank and Emma), sketch; Pat Marray, clown and light and heavy balancing; the Great Conklin Family (six), ladies band, slack wire, contortion, rings, swinging perch, etc.; Harry Barteno, sensational novelty act; Edna, soubrette; Palmer and Leroy, farce and comedy; Dawson and ___, acrobatic posturing act on roller skates; band, under the leadership of Sam Rickey, includes ten pieces. We will travel in our special cars. Roy Fortune, superintendent of lot, with ten assistants; W. S. Grider, in advance; Ed. Morgan, stage manager.
The Luella Forepaugh Wild West Show has engaged A. B. Stewart as twenty-four hour man, and May Stewart as rider, with her own stock.
Floyd Bernard, who was with Howe's Great London Shows last season, has signed with Campbell Bros.' Great Consolidated Shows for the coming season.
___ Craft, manager of Conroy & Mack's Comedians, has signed with Augustus Jones to do the press work for the Indian Bill Wild West this summer.
New York Clipper, April 18, 1903, pp. 184, 195. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Bartine & De Onzo Show notes. Juan DeZamora and Family (Zamora Mexican Family) have arrived in Connersville, and will remain until the show opens. We have just let contract for a large amount of special printing, and will put out a daily average of fourteen thousand sheet pictorial, and bill the country route for twelve miles in all directions at every stand. M. R. Williams, our general agent, will leave with the first brigade about April 25.
Notes from the Great Barlow Show. Everybody is well and working hard at winter quarters, as our opening date is April 20. George H. Wyman will soon join, which will make his sixth season. Frank Decker is now here for his second season. Arthur Howe, from St. Joseph, Mo., will arrive on April 10, and the rest of the show will arrive one week before we open. All of our ponies, dogs and animals are in fine condition.
South Sea Island Joe and his wife, of Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus, will return to Europe. His Plantation Exhibition will follow from Philadelphia. He writes that he has disposed of his big mechanical exhibition steeplechase at Coney Island.
Notes from Pawnee Bill's Wild West. Every department of the Pawnee Bill Wild West is nearly ready for the opening, and Carniegie, Pa., where the winter quarters are located, is crowded with members of this really big exhibition. The streets of this busy town look picturesque with the many nationalitites seen on the streets. The Mexican dandy strolls along arm in arm with the bewhiskered Cossack, and the blanket Indians in groups are seen gazing into the store windows at the white man's clothing. Over at the immense buildings everyone is busy putting on the finishing touches here and there, so that the show will go out equipped as never before in its history. Major Lillie (Pawnee Bill) has secured a band of Yaqui Indians from Mexico. This is the tribe that are continually on the war path with the Mexican government, and nearly all of them have a price on their heads. All of the new cars are among the largest and best that will be seen on the road this season. Pawnee Bill has arranged to conclude every performance with a splendid military spectacle, which will be of a most stirring nature. Pawnee Bill is going forth to add many laurels and prestige to his already splendid career as an amusement caterer.
Notes from the Lucky Bill Show. We have been on the road one week, and met with a grand success, only losing one night, and that was on account of a severe snow storm, but the next morning the sun came out, in two hours the women were wearing their sunbonnets, and Lucky Bill ws on the road for his next stand. The horses are looking fine, and are ready for their ring work every night.
Roster and notes of M. L. Clark's Combined Shows. We opened at Alexandria, La., March 30, 31, to an excellent business; in fact, the largest the show has ever done in its home town. M. L. Clark is sole owner and manager; G. V. Parsons, treasurer; Theo. Rees Barretts, equestrian director, and Red Clemmens, band master. The show is one of the largest overland shows in America, with twelve cages of animals, including a beautiful pair of lions, a pair of hyenas, an elephant and camel. We carry a band of twelve people, with Yankee Dell Button and his trombone. The performers include: Theo. Rees Barretta, mule hurdle rider and principal clown; P. R. Kelly, singing and talking clown; Serra, in Spankish rings and webs; the Irvings, in double traps and breakaway perch; Jerome Abbey, in high pedestal foot juggling; Albert Powell and son, contortionists; Carrie Kellog, in a neat wire and single trapeze, with iron jaw finish; the Russ Bros., in triple bars and brother act; Little Pearl Clark, the boneless wonder; and the veteran, Billie Weaver. The show carries a 90ft. round top, with two 40ft. middle pieces, one hundred and sixty-four head of stock and fifty-two wagons. Our route is Louisiana, then North as far as we can.
Notes from Waldo & Co.'s Big Twentieth Century R. R. Shows. We will open the season on May _, at Hammond, Ind., where winter quarters have been rented for the past five years. Two new cars have been added to the equipment, and are now being painted and put in first class shape. We will have an ___ new waterproff top, and a new combination band and ticket wagon is being built in Peru. With Messrs. Waldo & Co. are associated H. E. Harrison, who for many years was connected with the Forepaugh-Sells and Sells & Downs Shows, and Sam MacFlinn, whose long and varied experience in handling "white top shows" makes him a valuable acquisition as general manager. Mr. MacFlinn also has the reserved seats and concert and candy privileges. Four fine English percherons have been purchased for the band wagon, while Prof. Cooke's troup of educated dogs and ponies, twenty-two in number, fill out the performing stock. Among the company engaged are: the Cole Family of English aerialists; Bartelli Bros., acrobats; John Sauer, contortionist; Bessie Enos Moore, serio comic; La Belle Ruby, buck and wing dancer; Rice Bros., Dutch knockabouts; the Smiths, musican and chalk performers; ___, bicycle comedy; the Wonderful Leverings, in their famous 'cycle whirl, and the Bonnie Sisters, in cloud swing and ladder acts. Prof. Allen's band of sixteen soloists will attend to the musical programme, which will be choice and varied. With everything new and up to date, twenty-seven kinds of new specail pictorial printing, Messrs. Waldo & Co. have every reason to look forward to a long and prosperous season. The business staff is composed of: Waldo & Co., sole proprietors; H. E. Harrison and Sam MacFlinn, general managers; Eugene V. Farley, treasurer; Robt. ___, general agent, with six men, ten days ahead, and Walter Downs, with three men, five days ahead.
C. Z. Bronson, of Chicago, has arrived in Peru, Ind. (the home of the Great Wallace Shows), and has begun the organizing of his band for his seventh season with this show. The band will have thirty men. Rehearsals will begin April 15, and, as Mr. Bronson is known to be a drill master, much is expected of his band.
Notes from La Mont Bros.' Circus, Menagerie and Hippodrome. Everything is in readiness for our opening, which will be Saturday, May 2. The show has been greatly enlarged since last season, new wagons have been built, old ones rebuilt, and everything painted inharmonizing colors. A new band wagon and two new cages have been added. Our new top, eight foot round top, with a forty foot middle piece, is a beauty. The horse tent is twenty-eight by forty; dressing tent, forty feet round top, and cook tent, twenty by thirty. The new band uniforms and parade paraphernalia are certianly twentieth century novelties. Roster of the show: Chas. R. and Harry R. La Mont, sole owners; C. R. La Mont, manager; Georgie La Mont, treasurer; Joe Earl, general agent; Will Brown, bicycle act and flying perch; Clarence McComb, Spanish rings, loop walker and clown; La Mont Trio, aerial bars and return act; Charles Randolph, troupe of trained ponies, dogs, goats and mules; Harry La Mont, hand balancer; Will La Mont, rolling globe and musket spinning; Smilette Sisters (Lulu and Lottie), contortionists and double trapeze; Mattie De Van, slack wire and single traps; and Foster and Flack, triple horizontal bars. Our concert will be a feature. The concert people are: Georgie La Mont, saxaphone soloist; La Mont Bros., eccentric comedians; Foster and Flack, knockabout comedians; Will Morton, banjoist, and Prof. ___ ventriloquits and magic. The stock will be in charge of John Skirer, with four assistants; boss canvas man, Shorty Becker, with eight assistants, and Frank Paxton, animal man. The advance brigade will have two wagons, with John Newkirk, John Kelsey, Billy Sherman and Frank William, bill posters and programmers. The show, in all, will be one of the biggest, strongest and best wagon shows on the road, with thirty-four people, fourteen wagons, twenty-seven horses, not counting ponies or burros. Roster of the band: John J. McNally, leader; C. R. La Mont, Cliff Tillotson, Martin Walker, Harry La Mont, Will La Mont, Abe Ernhart, Georgie La Mont, Claud Sully, Steve Johnson and Charlie Baker.
Chas. Bartine & De Onzo notes. Everybody is busy now about headquarters, getting ready for our opening May 14. The Mexican Zamora Family arrived here from Chicago on Monday, and on Wednesday, April 1, Juan De Zamora was joined in wedlock to Eva Beroure, one of the lady gymnasts of the Mexican troupe. The entire family will remain here now until the opening of the big show. In the meantime they will practice a new aerial sensation of Mr. Zamora's, introducing six people, two men and four ladies, and it will be produced with the Bartine Shows this season.
Ben Lucier closed with Harry Ward's Minstrels at St. Cloud, Minn., March 28, and will open with the Sells & Downs' Shows for the summer, introducing his ladder drops.
After a quarter of a century of campaigning with and inventing new brands of publicity for P. T. Barnum and James A. Bailey, Richard Francis ("Tody") Hamilton thinks he has learned what will please the children. It is a see-saw. "Tody" has invented a Duplex Safety See-Saw. Upon the machine four children can "teeter-tawter" at one time. In partnership with his brother, John W. Hamilton, and Allen S. Williams, "Tody" is engaged in manufacturing and marketing the see-saws. Other novelties, designed for children, to be placed in expositions, parks and other thronged resorts will supplement the see-saw. Of the see-saw, the latest of his several inventions, "Tody" says: "After observing the many devices for the amusement of children throughout the United States and Europe, I was seized with the conviction that there was something lacking. When I was a kid there was one trick I never missed. If there was a plank, another boy or girl, and anything for a fulcrum, we would get a-going a see-saw, and were there to stay until the board broke or we were chased away. In all sorts of places, Summer resorts, fairs and juvenile institutions from Portland, Ore. to Budapest, I have seen many mechanical contrivances made and provided to amuse children, but not one see-saw. The children will get them now." On exhibition of the model alone the orders for "Tody's" see-saw are far ahead of the supply.
New York Clipper, April 25, 1903, pp. 217, 218. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Circus. Sig. Sautelle is a very busy man these days. Carpenters have been busy at the quarters, between Cortland and Homer, building the many new wagons and cages necessary to carry the enlarged show of 1903, and a large force of painters, under artist Butcher, of Buffalo, have been putting coats of gilt and bright colors on the wagons, and everything will look as new as it is possible by a lavish expenditure of money to make them. Many of Mr. Sautelle's best lieutenants of last season are with him again. General manger Frank A. Robbins has been in New York and other head railroad centres, making railroad contracts. The first man over the route ahead of the show will be David H. Haley, who has been with this show for many years in the capacity of contracting agent. The next man over the route is "All." Foster, with advertising car No. 1, and his corps of sixteen assistants. Mr. Sautelle has expended thousands of dollars for new lithographs of all kinds and sizes, which these men will plentifully paste over the country. The "box" gang, with the second advertising car, keep a week ahead of the show, and Amos Orton and his twelve assistants cover the territory as thoroughly as do the men in the first brigade. J. W. Shipman is the assistant to general manager Robbins, and J. C. Banks is again the press agent. The equestrian director is C. A. Reeves. He has worked out and trained sixty-two horses, ponies and donkeys in a superb act, which will be a feature this season. They are all in the ring at one time. His assistant is Charles Watson, bareback rider, who was a feature last season. Mr. Sautelle is spending more money and has better people booked than any previous year. Among those who will appear are: Jos. Cousins and wife, the Four Carpenters, Wyoming Jack and Nebraska Bill and their wives, T. J. Madden, the Le Barrons, the Holmans Brothers, the Jeannettes, the Four Flying Moores, Drako with his trained dogs, sheep, pigs, etc.'; France Reed, Prof. Latelles, St. Arno, Claude Rauff, Ellno Eddie, Charles Jackson, Charles Troy, Charles Smith, Ray Willis, D. D. Lawrence, Billy Ward and J. C. Harris, and many others. The privileges are in charge of James Morrow,and he has booked a splendid line of attractions for the side show and concert. The animals will be in charge of Theo. Ferris, late of the Wallace Show. The menagerie this year will be of the best. The animals of last season formed a fine nucleus around which have been gathered many wild and rare specimens. Edward Kennedy is the boss canvas man, and a large new big top has been made especially for the show, and will be carried for emergency. J. C. Cox is train master, having charge of the loading and unloading. The boss hostler, Frank Smith, will have over two hundred horses and ponies under his care. Sig. Sautelle has employed Harry Allen as officer.
Joseph La Bex has signed with the Gollmar Bros.' Consolidated R. R. Shows to do his ground and aerial contortion act, making his second season with that show.
Bert Davies, trap drummer, joined Welsh Bros.' Circus, April 8, for his second season.
Harry R. Moore, press agent of Campbell Bros.'s Shows, has sold his comedy, "Where Is Smith?"
The Two Roses (Jimmy and Edna) have closed fourteen weeks of vaudeville dates, and joined the Walter L. Main Show April __, at Springfield, O.
Roster of Williams & Fennessey's Circus, featuring the Del Rey Family acrobats. ___; juggler, Tyssoskey Family, bareback and steeplechase riders; Leland Sisters, trapezists; John Reh, magician and Punch; Reh Sisters, cake walkers; Eddie Mortyne, high tight rope; Darke's sheep; Lovel Bros., high rings; Snakerino, contortionist; and Gold and Hoppe, musical act. Our outside free exhibition is Prof. Bretano's flying ship, Cyclone. This is a new show in the field, with four rings.
Roster of Lee Bros.' Consolidated Shows. Frank H. Stowell, general agent; Henry G. Carey, twenty-four hour man; Chas. Gerry, superintendent of canvas; Eugene Bennett, superintendent of horses; Bill Smith, superintendent of cook house; Tom Neary, superintendent of properties; Neil Judson, musical director; Chas. Waters, treasurer. Performers: Schott and Operman, triple bar experts; Two Snakerinos, contortionists; Calvo, Cuban wonder, high wire; Kammerer and Milvo, comedy acrobats; Keene, the juggler; Devinal Sisters, aerialists and gymnasts; Geo. Barnes' dogs and ponies, and the following clowns: Gus Milvo, Johnnie Patterson, Willie Dale and Peter Loughlin. Concert people: Black and King, Etta Stone, and Butterworth Bros., musical act. We open our season April __, under a brand new spread of canvas, and will open the performance with an eight horse entree with new wardrobe and trappings. All our printed matter bears the union label, and have lots of it, also a hustling agent to pilot us safely, and look for a long season.
Notes from E. G. Smith's Dog and Pony Shows. Everything is ready for the road, and at winter quarters we are eagerly awaiting our opening date, April 25. This will be our sixth consecutive season, and the patrons of this show will meet with an agreeable surprise. The outfit has grown considerably since it reached winter quarters. All new tents have been added, one more wagon, and all the old wagons have been repaired, repainted and decorated. Our new line of special paper has arrived and certainly is a work of art. Every sheet put up by our advance will be special. The trained stock, consisting of dogs, ponies and donkeys, are in the pink of condition, and their work is done with a snap and vim that shows plainly the careful training they have undergone. The pony feature, Inez, is a surprise to all that have seen her, and certainly will be a drawing car. The two donkey clowns, Jenny and nancy, are making a hit with the employees at our quarters. All the dogs are working their old and new tricks like old timers, and seem to enjoy their daily practice. All of last season's people have signed . . . Roster: E. G. Smith, owner and manager; Keller Iseminger, advance representative; John Ready, ring director; Mrs. E. G. Smith, treasurer; Ed. Fritz, boss canvas man; Geo. ___, boss of stock; ___, charge of trained stock; Ed. Thires, leader of band, with six assistants. Performers: Ed. and Nellie Thires, John Ready, J. J. Ray Dee, and E. G. Smith with his trained dogs, ponies and donkeys.
Notes from the Bonheur Bros. Our winter company finished its winter trip April 16, having lost during the entire tour but four nights, on account of extremely bad weather and one night left out while crossing a strip of the Caddo Indian country nearly fifty miles wide, with no acceptable points to exhibit in. At many of the new halls we had to build our own stages and put in the seats. Two complete opera houses were built, one at Mountain Park and another at Hinton, Okla., the foundations being laid the day the advance man contracted to show in them, and the carpenters doing rush work to finish the buildings in time for the show to move in on the dates arranged for. We traveled all over the Kiowa, Comanche and Caddo countries, visiting nearly all the good show towns, and crossed the Wichita Mountains twice. In the meantime work has been going on at the show quarters, and all trained stock is now ready to go on the road. The new canvas show will go out this year under the name of the Golden Mascot Shows, and will hereafter be known by that title. A fine half sheet will be used this season.
Note from the Miles Orton Show. We are still in Tennessee, doing fine business. We have just received our new top, 80ft., with two 40ft. middle pieces; marque and dressing room. The show will tour the extreme Northwest. Jess Brown and wife joined at Savannah, Ga., recently, to take charge of side show and concert. Prof. Snyder is in charge of the band.
Among those engaged for the Rippel Shows are: W. S. Caylor and his band of eight pieces; Sam W. Chandler, boss canvas man; Clyde ___, advance agent; Al. Redcliff, general superintendent; Chas. A. Rippel, proprietor and manager; Alice G. Rippel, slack wire; Master Charlie Rippel, contortion and rings; Master Bobby Rippel, boy clown; Frank Ball, silence and fun; Ed. Ammon, equilibrist; and Annie Payton, perch and traps. Everything goes out new this season. We have five as pretty parade wagons as ever put out with a small show, and our band wagon is a beauty. We open about May 1, in Forest, Ind.
Pawnee Bill notes. Pawnee Bill will introduce to American audiences, in May, Valeria Estrado, a native of the Argentine Republic. He is a horse hypnotist, and handles the most vicious equines without recourse to harness or whip. All he asks is that the animal be turned into the arena, and he will then demonstrate the superior mind power he claims to possess. Major Lillie expects the Signor Estrado wil prove a big feature of his Wild West exhibition.
New York Clipper, May 2, 1903, pp. 230, 231. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Lowery Bros.' New Olympia Shows. We opened our sixth season April 18, at Shenandoah, Pa., to one of the largest and most enthusiastic audiences in the history of this show, standing them up close to the ring bank. This show has been greatly enlarged and remodeled since last season. The big top is a new 90ft., with two 40ft. middle pieces; the fressing top, a 40ft. round top; cook house 20x30 ft. Band uniforms and parade paraphernalia all new and of the latest design, cars and wagons all remodeled and redecorated. Roster of show: Geo. B. Lowery, sole lessee and manager; Dr. Jas. Maginnis, treasurer and book-keeper, who will join May _, after completing his studies at medical college; L. M. Deeds, equestrian director and press representative, back with show. The advance is in charge of our old reliable agent, Phillip Harris, with four assistants, who herald the on-coming of the New Olympia in the same successful manner as in former years. The Belmo Trio, return act and comedy acrobats; Mr. and Mrs. Goodrode, revolving ladder, slack wire and flying rings; Grant Bros., double trapeze, contortion, la eschelle act and loop walking; Prof. John Kelley, balloonist and parachute jumper; the Great Rosse, Spanish rings; M. B. Burke, principal clown; Prof. Bohn, educated dogs and ponies; L. M. Deeds, barrel and cross foot juggler; Bob Fey, singing clown; Aldrich Bros., horizontal bars and casting act. Roster of band: Prof. Dusch, leader; John Wescott, U. G. Allman, J. G. Allman, C. A. Tracy, Bob Fey, Mike Coll, John Brennan, Chas. law, John Walker, C. R. Alvers, John Ditton. Chas. Jack and Pete Wade, car porters; J. J. Jacobs, with four assistants, in charge of cook house; Harry Wade, with four assistants, in charge of canvas; Doc Roe, chandeliers.
Notes from the Teets Bros.' Show, Floyd Trover, manager. Jess Brown and wife rejoined the show on April 20, to take charge of the side show. N. A. Smith, trombone; Guy G. Noble, clarionet, and Harry Morris, tuba, are late additions to the band. We have one of the neatest two car shows on the road, with a new eighty foot top, with two forties. The cars and paraphernalia are all painted white and trimmed in red. Business has been big all winter, and the show is giving good satisfaction. We are now headed for the far West.
Notes and roster of Geo. F. Donovan & John O'Donnell's Road Shows. We are very busy at winter quarters, building new seats, also painting and repairing our cars. We carry forty-two people, and travel in our own cars. Unlimited capital is being spent to make this one of the best four car shows on the road. We will have everything ready for the opening day, May 25, at Sedalia, Mo. Roster of some of the people: Geo. F. Donovan and John O'Donnell, proprietors and managers; Mitch Greentree, high diver; Emit Ruf, slack wire; Adolph Ruf and his troupe of trained dogs, goats and mules;and the Gorden Sisters (Maud and Eva). Jack Dempsey will have the side show; Prof. Edwards ventriloquist and magic. The stock will be in charge of Jim Franklin, with three assistants; Tom O'Donnell with have charge of the advance brigade, with five assistants. Mr. Donovan has sold out his place of business at Kansas City, Mo., and will travel with the show this season.
Fred A. Hodgson, manager of the Orrin Circus, has purchased an island in Georgian Bay, Canada, and will there spend a few months this summer.
Juan De Zamora, manager of the Mexican Zamora Family of aerialists, writes that he had to refuse several offers from different managers of parks and carnival companies, owing to the fact that just before the closing of the last season with the Bostock-Levitt Carnival Co., No. 1, he signed contracts with Charles Bartine for 1903-04. The Zamora Troupe are now practicing at Mr. Bartine's winter quarters, where they will be until the opening of the show, May 14, when the Mexican Zamora Family will be the feature act of the show.
Notes from the Great Canada Frank's R. R. Shows. Every day brings us nearner out opening. The people are beginning to come in. Everything bids fair for one of the best seasons the show has ever experienced. We will take our old route through the Dakotas, Minnesota, Iowa and Nebraska. The people so far signed are: the Myers Family (six in number), the Three Howards, R. N. Hendrick, La Velle's band of seven pieces, Sam Vilhelm, Bill Bailey, boss of canvas, with six assistants.
The Rio Brothers, Otto Rio, manager, opened with the Ringling Brothers' World's Greatest Shows at the Coliseum, Chicago, as one of the features for the summer season. This Fall they go to London, to fill contracts in England and on the continent. They are preparing a Roman ring novelty for production next season.
At Connersville, Ind., last week, at the home of Chas. Bartine and wife, occurred the marriage of Juan De Zamora and Eva Revour, two of the prominent members of the aerial familywho have signed with the Bartine & De Onzo Consolidated Railroad Shows. The affair was quite an enjoyable one to about twenty guests who witnessed the ceremony, which was performed by Mayor Clark, making them husband and wife.
W. M. Davis, an old time showman, died at his home in Marble Rock, Iowa, April 13, aged eighty-four years. He was born in Covington, N.Y., July 19, 1819, and married Sarah A. Emily at Baraboo, Wis., Feb. 27, 1854. He entered the show business as a musician with Van Amburg & Raymond's Menagerie in 1839. Later he was manager of Mabie's Circus and for Cole's Circus, traveling principally in the South. When Mr. Davis enterd the show business the concerts were given under the side show tent, but one night an accident to this tent in the show with which Mr. Davis was connected caused him to give the concert in the big tent after the regular performance, and this, it is claimed, was the origin of "concerts after the big show."
New York Clipper, May 9, 1903, pp. 255, 263. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Buffalo Bill's Wild West. We closed our winter season at Olympia, London, Eng., April 4, and opened under canvas at Brooks' Bar, Manchester, Eng., April 13, to turnaway business, which continues, notwithstanding the extremely cold weather. At this writing, April 17, the ground is covered with snow and the thermometer is doing stunts down around the zero mark. We show here three weeks, then go to Liverpool for a like period. The Wild West has caught on big with the Britishers, and it looks as though we would duplicate the Barnum & Bailey success on this side of the pond. Manager of privileges Lew Graham has put together the strongest concert and side show ever seen with a traveling exhibition, and the business is immense.
Notes from Waldo & Co.'s Twentieth Century R. R. Shows. We open the tenting season at Hammond, Ind. For some weeks past canvas men, property men, grooms and carpenters have been busy getting the cars, wagons and top ready, and all is progressing in fine shape. Many novel features are being prepared, under the personal direction of general manager Harrison, who keeps a watchful eye on everything. Many of the performers have already arrived at winter quarters, and gaze upon the busy scene with pleasant anticipations, for the rolling stock is new and up to date, with plenty of room for the sixty odd people who will be carried. The season opens May 8, and every attache looks forward to a long and prosperous season.
Ross, contortionist, has signed with the Great Canada Frank Show for this season.
The Johnson Bros. (Otto and Emmett) are with the Lucky Bill Show.
Notes from Chamberlain Bros.' Triple Plate Circus and Vaudeville. We opened our season at Lock Haven, Pa., April 23-25, to capacity business at each performance. The entire company made a hit with press and public. Following is the complete roster: Doc Waddell, in advance; J. W. Clark, second advance, with three assistants; L. J. and B. C. Chamberlain, proprietors; Joe West, manager; Joe Duponts, stage manager; the Wilsons, aerial act; the Dupontas, club swingers and hoop rollers; Troy's trained dogs and goats; Howard Brothers, baton and club jugglers; Haynes and Elmer, Violet Raymond, the Livingstons, Sam and Sadie Burnett, Tiney's troupe of educated horses, and our premium band and orchestra of twenty-two picked musicians. Joe West and Ida May Lewis have been engaged as the only vaudeville feature.
Walter M. Leslie is manager of the side show with Indian Bill's Great Wild West Show, having closed, he informs us, the most successful season in years with the Great Conkling Show, which he will take on the road again next season.
Notes from headquarters of C. N. Knight's Mammoth Circus. This will be one of the finest wagon shows on the road this season. Our big top is seventy feet, with a thirty foot middle; horse tent, twenty-four by thirty-six; cook tent, fifteen by twenty-four; dressing top, sixteen by twenty-four, all new; a fine new band wagon, five of the finest top baggage wagons, six fine parade rigs, and will crry twenty-four head of stock and parade horses, all white. Will open May 6 and 7, at Dunkirk, O.
___ Cruzen, understudy to "Diavolo," the loop the loop bicyclist of the Forepaugh & Sells Bros. Circus, fell while trying to perform the looping feat on the morning of April 25, at St. Louis, Mo., and was taken to St. Mary's Infirmary, that city. It was said at the hospital that his injuries would probably prove fatal.
Herbert Swift, the minstrel and band master, with Welsh Bros.' Circus, writes that he has bought a handsome seven room cottage in Lancaster, Pa., the home and winter quarters of the Welsh Bros. Show. Mr. Swift will move his mother from Jackson, Miss., and make Lancaster his future home. He has a five years' contract with Welsh Bros.' Circus in the summer and their minstrels in the winter.
The Musical Brennans have signed with the Bonheur Bros.' New Golden Allied Shows for this season, to do their comedy musical act and novelty vertriloquial specialty. This is their fourth season with this show.
The following compose part of the Busby Bros.' four car railroad circus, which opened April 18, at Shelbyville, Ill.: Ed. C. Long, equestrian director; Madame Julian, principal and hurdle riding; John Carrier, foot juggling and bars; Julian Children, posturing and aerial act; Martin and Crotch, knockabout and acrobatic clowns; Mrs. Wm. Irving, iron jaw and juggling; Kittie Mae Irwin, contortionist; Wm. Irwin, head balancing and flying perch; the Lees; Geo. Crowley and his band of fourteen; A. E. Humiston, contracting agent; Alvah Randle, treasurer; C. Mack, general special agent, in charge of advertising car; Fred Mack and Busby Bros., managers. "Ad. Funk" has the side show with Busby Bros.' Railroad Show. Among those with him are: Dollie La Tow, F. L. Loomis, Prof. Riley and wife, Charlie Schulte and others. Webb Bros., of Peru, Ind., have the privilege car with Busby Bros.' Circus.
"Gentleman Jack" Whittleback, an animal trainer, narrowly escaped being killed while performing with three lions at Hargreave's Circus, at Flemington, N.J., evening of April __. One of the lions sprange at hime, burying its teeth in his leg, and clinging to him until a bar was forced into its throat.
New York Clipper, May 16, 1903, pp. 278, 279. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Hall Shows. Everything around winter quarters, at Fond du Lac, Wis., is booming, and will be in readiness for our grand opening, about May 16. All of the wagons and cages have been repainted and present a fine appearance. Hall's Imperial Band has been rehearsing for the past week, and are in fine shape to give their concerts each evening, which take place before the big show. The band is under the personal directior of R. V. Hall. Some of the people have arrived for the big show, and all are hard at work, getting their acts in shape. The marvelous Taggart Family (Oscar, Arvilla and Little Vera) have arrived, and will astonish the people with their wonderful horizontal bar work, breakaway ladder and trapeze. Robert Engler, the homan snake, will do the outside ascension and make his wonderful head stand on the centre pole. The Holloway Trio (Max, Claude and Arthur) have arrived, and are getting ready for the opening. The Jenaros have arrived also. Harry will do his wonderful wire act and juggler, Nellie will also do her singing and dancing specialties. Everything looks good for a prosperous season.
Notes from Gentry Bros.' Dog and Pony Show No. 4. We opened at Olney, Ill, April 15, and despite rain and bad weather have been doing a splendid business all along the line. We are carrying eight cars, over one hundred men, one hundred and eighty ponies, seventy-five dogs, the usual number of monkeys, elephants and other animals, all of which are in fine condition, causing much favorable comment at every place we visit. Following is the business staff: Gentry Bros., owners; F. H. Gentry, manager; Ed. H. Jamison, business manager; H. C. ___, treasurer; Chas. D. Hammond, press agent; Roy W. Rush, ring master; Harry ___, band leader; H. C. Cooke, steward; Frank K. Scott, boss canvas man. Everything is running very smoothly and has done so from the very start. Our monkey ___ concert, under the supervision of Prof. Diggins, is giving universal satisfaction, while our band is second to none.
Bartine Show notes. We have received our new seventy foot baggage car, arranged with berths for our working people, and we new flatter ourselves that we have as comfortable accommodation for both performers, musicians and working men as any show on the road. We open at Connersville, Ind., May 14, and M. R. Williams, our general agent, has just completed our railroad contract with the different roads this season.
Radcliff and Belmont, expert rifle and pistol shots, and society sketch, canceled their contract with the Cole Younger & Frank James Historical Wild West, and joined Waldo & Co.'s R. R. Shows.
The Three Tattersley Bros. joined the Darling Railroad Show for the summer seson, and report success in their double trapeze and ring contortion act, with seen year old Lewis as a member of the trio.
Gentry's Dog and Pony Show reports only medium business thus far, claiming the weather man has allowed them only four days, which, however were played to capacity business. The feature of the show this year is the musical pony act. The monkey theatre is also very interesting, and is enjoyed by the children. A ten days old baby camel, named Indiana, is the pet of the show.
Roster of Gentry Bros.' Dog and Pony Circus No. 2: John L. Glennan, general agent and traffic manager; L. C. Mason, local contracting agent; Jack Morrison, boss bill poster, with five assistants, as follows: Albert Ball, Wm. Marchant, Lon Adams, Jack Williamson and Joseph Matthews.
New York Clipper, May 23, 1903, pp. 302, 315. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Great Barlow Show. We are on our second week under canvas and are playing to fine business. Roster: Arthur Howe, Geo. H. Wymann, Frank Decker, Edna Barlow, Eima Barlow and Ed. P. Barlow. We have two trained Shetland ponies, six dogs and bucking bronchos. Orchestra: Frank Girard, Guy Fahlor and Ettea Lease. Hostlers: Frank Shidler and Leon Nelson. Property man, E. D. Bentz. Ed. P. Barlow, manager; Ella M. Barlow, treasurer; Edna Barlow, privileges and cashier.
Notes from H. A. Mann's Gilt Edged Shows. We opened the season May 2, at Oberlin, O. The weather was fine, and the big tents were jammed with people, hundreds being turned away for lack of room. The show made a marked impression, not only by the elegance and completeness of its equipment, but the high standard of excellence that chracterized the entire performance. The roster of the company includes: William Mayo and his educated stallions and mule; the Skerbeck Family of acrobats; Burtch and Hicks, stilts, tumblers and knockabout clowns; Charles ___ and his troupe of dogs, and trapeze and balancing act; the Lewises, acrobatic and singing clowns; Limbert, original "Happy Hooligan" bicycle act; the Du Rell Mendoza Tropue of comedy trick house acrobats. The band of fourteen musicians is under the leadership of Prof. H. D. Brown, and Prof. Geo. Wilson is leader of orchestra. The parade attracted great attention, especially the beautiful band chariot, drawn by six milk white horses, with magnificent trappings. The spread of canvas consists of one eighty foot top, with two forty foot middle pieces; a thirty by fifty dressing room, and eighteen by twenty marque. Two seventy-two foot cars transport the show. H. A. Mann is manager; Wm. Mayo, assistant manager; Bud Rowland, treasurer; Cap. Bright, in charge of privileges; R. McDaniel, agent, with six men; Chas. Dolby has charge of the dressing room. The tremendous business done by this show since its opening performance has made necessary an immediate enlargement of capacity. Another middle piece has been ordered, and ten lenghts of extra seats.
Notes of the Lucky Bill Show. We have been doing a phenomenal business since our opening, although we are surrounded by six of the "big ones," we still continue to pack them in nightly. The Wings, in their ladder and trapeze work, make a hit with every audience and are one of the features of the show. Mrs. Granger and her young son joined May 4. She has taken charge of the orchestra, which is now doing nice work and pleasing the people with their up to date methods and music. . . . Roster: Lucky Bill, proprietor; F. L. Granger, manager; Will Newton, in charge of advance; Mrs. F. L. Granger, musical directress; the Two Wings, Henry Wood . . . Mabel Johnson, the Musical Grangers, H. C. Nicols, John Dye, Owen Clark and Tom Marks.
The Orrin Bros. Circus will close its season in the City of Mexico May 18, and will start the interior trip shortly after that date. Manager Fred A. Hodgson reports excellent business.
Notes from Burns & Co.'s Big One Ring Circus. We opened our season May _, at Antigo, Wis., to turnaway business, both afternoon and night. The first performance ran smoothly and gave great satisfaction. We have a one hundred foot round top tent, with a fifty foot middle piece; carry fifty people, all told; travel by railroad and stop at hotels. Following is a complete roster: Burns & Co., proprietors and managers; Chas. Hoeffer, treasurer; J. Blanchard, master of transportation; F. W. Brooks, in advance, with four assistants; and the following performers: Four Lorenas, acrobats; Ansel and Adams, posturing act; Sig. Verney, contortionist; the Marvelous Kosters, aerialists; ___, tramp juggler; Hershal's trained dogs, goats and ponies; Prof. Burns' educated horses; Bros. Kohl, horizontal bars and brother act; John McNamara, singing and talking clown; Smithy, knockabout clown; Mlle. La Belle, slack wire; Prof. Aman's brass band of twenty pieces furnish classic and up to date music; Prof. Heims, magician, has charge of the side show; Busby is boss canvas man, with twelve assistants; Ole Olson has charge of privileges.
Annie Carroll, equestrienne, is in St. Joseph Hospital, Memphis, Tenn., slowly recovering from the effects of a serious surgical operation.
Kelly and Martine are with the John Robinson Circus, closing the concert with their specialty, and clowning in the show in connection with Chas. Morosco, and report success.
James A. Bailey, of the Barnum & Bailey Circus, has purchased the Slwanoy Country Club grounds at Corcoran Manor, Mount Vernon, N.Y., which consist of twenty-eight acres of land and a large club house, formerly owned by the Glover estate. The consideration was about $175,000. The club will vacate the property on Nov. 1, when Mr. Bailey will begin the construction of a mansion which will be one of the finest in Westchester County, it is said.
New York Clipper, May 30, 1903, p,. 326, 334. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Roster and notes from James Shelby's Railroad Shows. James Shelby, proprietor; Chas. T. Ogden, manager; Mrs. Lizzie Ogden, treasurer; Maurice De Castro, manager of side show; Edwin Hardy, privileges; Prof. Chas. Nichols, leader of band and orchestra. Performers: Ed. Hardy, hand balancer, chair pyramid and Spanish rings; Vaulter Bros., horizontal bars and brother act; Chas. Ogden, slack wire and trapeze; Chas. T. Ferris, novelty bone soloist and female impersonator; Maurice and Bowers, clowns; Baby Edna, contortionist, and the Ogden Sisters, comedy sketch and song and dance. The programme embraces eighteen acts, each of which is a novelty. The side show department embraces: Prof. Hardy's royal marionettes; Alinetta, snake charmer; Princess Valda, ladder of swords; Sig. De Castro, magician and Punch and Judy; Thauma, the living half lady illusion, and four cages of animals. Our season opened April 15, and business has been good, thanks to our hard working advance, W. H. Ashdown. Our big top, 60ft., with 40ft. middle piece, and side show, 40ft. by 60, with eight banners, and everything new this season from stake to bale ring.
Notes from the Pawnee Bill Wild West. From the opening, at Carnegie, Pa., to the present time, our business has been the largest in the history of the show. On Monday evening, at Pittsburg, we turned people away, and at Wheeling we were compelled to refuse money, and had to close the doors at 8:15. Heck Quinn got a bad fall, and we had to leave him at the hospital at Wheeling. He hopes to be able to join in two weeks. Manager Lillie (Pawnee Bill) is being congratulated on the splendid appearance of the parade, and his matchless exhibition of mounted horsemen from all parts of the globe. The Philippine contingent come in for a great deal of attention from soldiers and army officers who are familiar with their tongue. Keeler's Imperial Japanese troupe of acrobats are making good, and are a decided feature. The weather has been excellent, and not a wet canvas has been packed up so far. This season the show is fitted up for the large cities, and favorable comments are being heard on all sides.
Harry Helms closed his magic show at Marshfield, Wis., May 1, and joined Burns & Co.'s One Ring R. R. Show May 9, to do his tramp juggling act in the big show, and a new illusion as a feature in the concert. He will open his opera house season again early in September, and travel South for the winter, under the management of F. W. Brooks.
Notes from Alex. Glasscock's Big Combined Shows. We have just received our new top. It is a seventy foot, with two thirties, and fits like a glove. We have a seventy foot round top for our side show, and make a good flash. Our ring performance is very strong, comprising in all sixteen acts, by the Glasscocks, Harry Montau, Nellie Richards, the Rinelis, W. T. Moncayo, the Kobe Troupe, two bands of ponies and troupe of dogs.
Mrs. Roy and son are with the Pawnee Bill Wild West. Master King, said to be the only genuine Albino ever born in America, is a feature with the show.
Notes from Skerbeck's Great One Ring R. R. Shows. We have been on the road one week, and are packing them in. Our salary list is small, and business is big. In the opening our six sawdust jumpers keep the pad warm, and Pearl Skerbeck makes them applaud when she does her slack wire act. Our return act is the talk of the West. John Fox and Amanda Skerbeck are still walking up and down the ladders and jumping over tables on their hands, while our clowns make them laugh. After that our double trapeze team, Skerbeck and Skerbeck, do a few tricks, and the trained dogs and ponies also score well when they do their act. We also have a ___ perch act, juggling and barrel kicking, and wind up our show with Profs. Phil ___ and Silvers, on their revolving ladder. We have a band of twelve pieces,k who go up town twice daily, and play the overture from "The Bohemian Girl," bringing the crowds back to the lot with them. Frank Skerbeck, proprietor; Joe Skerbeck, manager; John Fox, equestrian director; Prof. Joe ___, band leader; Big Slim, canvas boss; Harry Wain, boss props.
Notes from Lepold's Great London Show. All is activity around our winter quarters, preparing for our opening in May 22. The show this season will be one of the finest equipped railroad shows in America. Our train will consist of two Pullman sleepers, three palace horse cars, and five Venice flat cars, all new this season. Our business staff will be made up by the following: Frank Lepold, owner and manager; Isaac Snavely, treasurer; Nello J. Campbell, general agent and traffic manager; "Doc" Means, manager advertising car; E. J. Bellcamp, press; Jim Wilson, superintendent of labor, and Wm. Cobb, master of transportation. We will feature Prof. Gettle's Royal Military Band of twenty-three pieces, and Madam Orland's female band of fifteen pieces, for the side show. Jimmie Faust will have the side show and privileges.
Roster of Hall & Sample's United Wagon Shows. F. W. Hall and G. C. Sample, sole owners and managers; Robt. C. Fontinelle, director; the Three Fontinelles (Robt., Harrietta and Baby Nina), tight wire and batonists; ___ and Earnest La Von, double traps and revolving ladder; Hattie Andrus, sailor perch and concert; Harry Morton, singing clown and concert; Robt. St. Clair, rolling barrel, balancing, trapeze and concert; Gus ___, single trapeze; Rozeles and Malone, brother act, and their high diving dog, Toots; Bert Willis, aerial rings, and Prof. ___ troupe of dogs and trick pony Cap. For music we have Prof. Morris' band and orchestra of ten people. We use ten wagons and twenty-five head of horses to transport the show. We opened at Nora Springs, Ia., May 11, to good business. Have ___ very bad roads, but manage to keep up with our paper so far, to good business.
Reno & Alvord notes. At Lafayette, Ind., on May 18, 19, Reno & Alvord's Circus gave four performances under the auspices of the Modern Woodmen Lodge. The people were pleased with the show, and the Lafayette press commended it highly. The show carries thirty-eight horses and fourteen wagons, and the white tops are all new, including a 70ft., with 30ft. middle for big top, and a 30 by __ horse tent, and six small tents. The advance for the show includes two wagons, with three bill posters, and Mr. Alvord at the wheel. The following people have proved capable in their line: Hardell Bros., Chas. Stone, Chas. Stall, Geo. Kall, Herman ___, Scott and De Mardo, Chas. Alderfer, Anna Stall, Emily Reno, and Prof. Reno's troupe of dogs, ponies and mules. A band of ten pieces draws big crowds to the grounds, after which Chas. Stone appears on the high wire. Everyone with the show is enjoying the best of health.
Roster of the Miles Orton Big Show. Miles Orton, proprietor; Gus Fairbanks, general manager; C. Cooper, director; John W. Berry, general agent; John S. Reh, manager of side show; Norman Orton, Myron Orton, Mlle Orton, V. O. Clark, ___, Wallace Rach, Charley Warnin, Ellwood Rockey, Paul Foresta, Joe Malina, Ajax, John T. Mack, Sadie Hart, Blanche Bay, Maxie Cunning, Hattie Hooper, and the Orton Family.
Wm. Lucifer, of the Lucifer Family, writes from Algiers, Africa, under date of May 10, as follows: We send these items to show talk from the far East that may be of interest to some of the readers of your valuable paper. After a four years' tour, embracing nearly every point of the compass throughout Asia and Asia Minor (under my own management and under contract), we closed a long and successful season with the Warren Circus at Saigon, Cochin China, Feb. 28, 1903. During our stay with the Warren Circus the enterprising manager of that show explored parts of Asia never before attempted by circus managers of the caucasian race. He came out with flying colors, and a heavy balance sheet to the good for his pluck. We were the first circus in the history of China to show inside the walls of the Imperial City of Pekin, opening there Sept. 2, 1902, and playing to a daily packed tent (two pole tent, 100ft. round top, with 40ft. middle, for six weeks, playing before Prince Schuen (the crown prince). To see the soldiers and officers of the allied forces, in their various uniforms, representing nearly every power in Europe, not forgetting our own boys of the U. S. Ninth Infantry, packed on our side and al the rainbow colors of China, from the coolie to the royal gentleman and merchant princes, with flowing silk robes and feathers, is a scene under a circus tent to remember. From Pekin we showed all the principal cities of China, some of their interior towns, with no foreign protection whatever, namely Loochow, one hundred and twenty miles from Shanghai, by house boat on a narrow canal. Loochow has an estimated population of 100,000, walled around like Pekin, and a total of sixty-five Europeans in the place, when we were there, of which fifty-two wer missionaries. Needless to say, we put out no extra paper to draw their patronage. The cholera was raging, from three to four hundred deaths a day. Still we played to remarkable business, lived in house boats on the canal (said boats about the size of a narrow gauge freight car), as there are no hotels there. Another interesting and good paying stand was Macas, the Monte Carlo of China, licensed by the government of the province as a gambling centre, with lovely hotels, beautiful drives, and by far the cleanest Chinese city we visited. A stroll through the gambling palaces will convince the visitor that the wily Cheno does not abuse his privilege. You can play any game from fan tan to games invented in the days of Confucius down to the later day civilized chuckluck and shell game; one exception, the game of American draw poker was missing. We also shows to a good three weeks' business at Hanoy, a French possession of Indo China, Island of Anam, six days from Hong Kong, and four days from Siagan, ninety-eight miles by rail from Hyaphong, the seaport town on the island. We spent eight days in Rangoon, Burmah, April first to eighth. The Neil-Frawley Repertory Co. was playing there at Jubilee Hall, and we spent a pleasant time with the members of the company. They report a long season and splendid business. From Calcutta they were to open in Colombo, April 22, for eight days, and from there to Melbourne, Australia. The steamer we were on put in at Colombo April 15, for twenty-four hours, and we just caught our old friend, the Harmston's Circus there, on the way for its annual Summer tour of Java, and we had a royal time of it until the whistle blew for all aboard. The Valdares, American trick bicyclists, are the feature with the show, and they also have a long lsit of people, and report a prosperous tour of India. George Harmston and family were with the Abel & Kisto Circus at last accounts, in the Punjab district. India is overrun with small native circuses. Chief among them I might mention, Prof. Bose's Great Bengal Circus, which was at Mallmain, Burmah, as we came through. They have a tiger and leopard act that would be a headline feature with any show. The Brough Dramatic Co. were playing Hong Kong in March, with Manilla to follow. We are spending a few days here sight seeing. Will leave tomorrow for London, where we will spend a few weeks, then across to New York, home and God's country, after seven years' tour of the world.
New York Clipper, June 6, 1903, pp. 350, 356. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Burns & Co.'s New Railroad Shows. Business has been far above our expectations, and our show is giving excellent satisfaction all along the line. We had our first blow down at Clintonville, Wis., during the afternoon performance, May 18, while the big tent was crowded with people, but we gave them timely warning, and no one was hurt. We had everything ready for the night show. Our outside attractions are Prof. Hendricks, in his slide for life from a one hundred and fifty foot pole while suspended by his teet; also our high diving dog. We have improved our band, under the leadership of Jerry Burton (twenty pieces), and everybody votes it a success. Ansel and Adams are doing well in their new brother act. Helms, the funny tramp juggler, always makes good, and they laugh from start to finish of his act. Roster: "The Marvel" in his novel aerial act; the Bros. Kohl, on the horizontal bars; Prof. Burns' trained horse "Logan," troupe of ponies; Hershol's trained dogs and goats; Verney, contortionist, and the Kinisers, leapers and ground and lofty tumblers. We are looking forward for a great season. The boys are all busy sending home blue paper every Monday morning, and all look for the Old Reliable.
Notes from the Harry De Forest New Show. Our opening show was May 23, to average business. This is the seventh season for this little wagon circus, starting from a 100ft. side wall. This season everything is new from stakes to our big top, 50ft., with a 40 middle; new seats, reserved chairs, three sleeping tents, cook house, horse tent and dog tent. Mr. De Forest has twelve dogs and four large monkeys; one of the best and youngest dancers in America, Baby Gladys; the Musical Ten Eycks are meeting with success, their fourth season with this show; the Juggling De Forests, Prof. Hicks, card and billiard ball workers; Albert, wire and traps, and the Dixons. We have one advance wagon, and everything looks bright ahead. We are playing the towns this show worked two years ago.
Notes from the Silver Family New Tent Show. Our show opened May 18, at Sterling, and have been packing the tent at every performance. We carry nineteen people, as follows: Bert Silver, Mrs. Bert Silver, Frances Silver, Laura Silver, Pearl and Ruby Silver, Masters Earl and Dick Silver, Mr. and Mrs. Duane Brown, Prof. Ward Hutton, Ethel Hutton, Will Davenport, "Leonzo, the Great," Ed. Everts, Chas. Earl, John Smith, Geo. Armstrong and J. Slote, and our juvenile band of twelve and orchestra of eight.
Harry Winslow writes: "I am doing the general contracting for the Reno & Alford Combined Shows for the Summer, and am pleased to say that business has been good since we opened, which was May 2, at Kankakee, Ill., at which place we turned them away."
Notes from the Forepaugh-Sells Bros. Circus. At Ann Arbor, Mich., May __, a most enjoyable time took place. A grand entertainment and dance was given in honor of Mrs. Geo. M. Jackson and Mrs. Mamie Lowande, sisters, and members of the Jackson Family. Over one hundred performers took part, and every one present agreed that it was the most enjoyable time ever held under a circus canvas. Ice cream, cake, cigars, and all kinds of good things were served. The genial Col. Charles Seeley, who has charge of the candy stands, furnished the lemonade (and not circus lemonade). Mrs. Geo. M. Jackson and Mrs. Mamie Lowande received many valuable and costly presents. Speeches and congratulations were given. Then the dance, and such a dance - everybody danced. Music was furnished by the Great Eddy Family, assisted by Mrs. Dan Ryan and Mr. La Rue. Among those who were present and enjoyed themselves were: Mrs. Grace Spaeth, Mrs. Anna Faerber, Mrs. Kate Doley, Mrs. Ed. Shipp, Mrs. Cecil Lowande, Mrs. Emma Stickney, Mrs. Beehe Jackson, Mrs. Lizzie Caron, Mrs. Nettie O'Brien, Mrs. Belle La Mont, Olga La Mont, Mrs. Kittie Devene, Mrs. Dan Ryan, Mrs. Eddy and daughters, Mrs. Romeo Sebastian, Lillie Low, Mamie Kline, Mrs. St. Leon and daughters, Mrs. Del Wilton, Mrs. Clifton and daughters, Mrs. Lovenberg and daughters, Mrs. Mamie Artressi, Lena Artressi, Marie Entzminger, Mrs. Melville, Mrs. West, Mrs. Divalo, Mrs. Minting, Mrs. Geo. Connors, Mrs. B. Wallace, the Sisters Arcarris, Ernest Cook, C. N. Thompson, T. Spaeth, Fred De Wolf, Wm. Gorman, Ed. Shipp, Col. Chas. Seeley, Capt. A. H. Farbel, and the famous Zouaves, sixteen in number; Walter Stanton, Martinho Lowande, Oscar Lowande, Cecil Lowande, Albert Hayes, Bishop Brothers, James West, Dan Ryan, Hughie Zorella, Dan O'Brien, Robert Stickney, Joe Artressi, Ernest Mooney, Decoma and Onzo, Del Wilton, Tom Cook, Minting, the Marvel; Fred La Mont, the Carrons, H. Burns, Paul Devene, the Great Eddy Family adn the Famous Jackson Family Sextette.
Notes from the Bonheur Bros. The Golden Mascot Shows, under the Bonheur management, started our under the brightest auspices on April 30. The home patronage from the twin towns of Carmen and Augusta, Okla., was, as usual, immense, and continued the same all along the line throughout Wood County, where the show has friends in every homestead. Then the worst of storms that were ever known in weather records began. At Ingersoll floods of rain inundated the show lot, and tremendous winds prevailed, losing the date of the show. The show was billed for two days at Alva, and one of the days was given to Ingersoll. Everywhere the storms permitted the show was given phenomenal business. The worst of the storm period was experienced on May 20-22, and all those dates were lost. On the last of those dates, 22, at 7:20 p.m., a tornado swept up from the Southwest, in Wood County, Okla. It passed through Carmen and Augusta, and completely wiped out the two towns. The Bonheur Bros.' winter quarters were in its track, and the ring barn, horse and pony stables, and quarters for the people, together with hay sheds and corn cribs, were totally demolished. Over $100,000 worth of property was destroyed in the towns. One man was killed. In all there were between thirty and forty dead and injured as a result of the tornadeo. A cloud of gloom, like the "skeleton of night," still hangs over the towns. The people are dazed and bewildered, and can scarecly realize that one minute's work of the wind transformed a thriving city into a scene of desolation and ruin. Two thousand dollars worth of show property stored at the Bonheur Bros.' quarters were scattered over the county or left exposed to the elements. This all happened while the show was at Sterling, Kan., if the show had been in quarters nothing would have been left of it. Storms have surrounded the show on all sides for a week, doing much damage to property, and the Messrs. Bonheur consider themselves fortunate in not being touched by the many dangerous hurricanes, cyclones and tornados that haver hovered about them since the twentieth of May.
Frank H. Webb, who owns the privileges with Busby Bros.' Circus, was married to Miss E. E. Mitchell at Decatur, Ill., recently. The bride's home is in Miami, Ind.
New York Clipper, June 13, 1903, pp. 370, 379. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Hargreaves' Shows. Business with this show since the opening, April 18, has been all that could be desired, and the canvas has never been rolled up wet yet. Decoration Day was spent in Olean, N.Y., and two capacity houses resulted. Mabel Hall and her monster trained elephant, "Columbus," are a feature hit everywhere. Mr. Harvreaves will add another stock and flat car this week, making sixteen cars back with the show, and for a compact, smooth running, up to date organization, we challenge comparison. Len G. Shelby joined last week to handle the advertising privileges, and is covering eveything in sight with banners. Col. Ben Bowman is reaping the shekels with one of the strongest side shows he ever handled. Lew Williams is our new master of transportation, and the train is loaded and unloaded with alacrity.
Following is the complete roster of E. D. Hayworth's Cowboy Band with the Great Cole Younger & Frank James Historical Wild West: E. D. Hayworth, conductor; Chas. Rote, Frank Walters, H. M. Ewing, George Marqutte, R. Engers, Guy Heffner, Chas. Conyers, Cal Davenport, Cleve Dayton, Robert Daizel, Tom Butler, Ernest Rawlings, James Hayworth, Tom Morris, Ed. Skinner, Vester Earhart, Joseph Meehan.
Notes from the Pawnee Bill Show. At Kenton a veritable cyclone struck the show, but, fortunately, it was directly after the performance was over in the afternoon. Centre poles were broken as if they were pipe stems, and escapes from serious injury were many, but no one was injured. Heavy rains set in, and Pawnee Bill decided to cancel the evening's performance, as the blow down was so complete that it would take several hours to get ready. The new canvas was damaged considerably, but it is now repaired. New poles were secured from a shipyard at Toledo, and we are now as if a storm had never struck us. A car load of baggage stock has been added, as it was found we were too heavily loaded. The show is running smoothly, and the newspaper critics are loud in their praises. At Toledo we stood up hundreds, and all seemed delighted.
Notes from the Walter L. Main Enormous Shows, Circus, Menagerie and Savage South Africa. We played June 3, at Toronto, Can., to two tents full to overflowing. The shows will play Quebec and Montreal real soon, being headed in that direction. The spectacular feature, "Savage South Africa," is taking like a cyclone in this country. The reason is that many of the soldiers who take part in that war drama - if it may be called so, though on a scale of magnificence impossible to present only al fresco - are from this section. They were in the South Africa wars, and the representations they give are a duplicate of the scenes. The other members of the feature include South African Boers, Zulus, Matabelee, Bushmen and New South Wales troopers. All are under the direction of Captain J. P. Visser, a Boer scout. He is a giant of seven feet in stature. Mr. Main has drawn together this season the greatest array of circus ring talent he has ever had. He has a large menagerie, with big herd of elephants, and the parade is gigantic in length and has big features. The Ringlings have been on our trail since the opening, April 18, in Springfield, O. Both proprietors are on the friendliest of terms. John Ringling called on the show in Toronto Wednesday. He was accompanied by his scurring press man, Jay Brady, and both were made welcome by Walter L. Main under his canvas. He placed at their disposal the best box, and, with other dignitaries of the Main Shows, entertained his guests. John Ringling was an attentive spectator of the acts in the three rings and elevated stages, and pronounced the performance great. He was even enthusiastic in applause at some of the acts that come under the classification of "thrills." John D. Carey is doing the advertising contract work, two weeks ahead of the shows, this season; Tom L. Wilson follows him, a week behind, to herald the coming of the big circus through local work in the papers. H. F. Hoffman does the chaperone press duty with the circus; also makes solid with the gentlemen of the press, and sees that their modest wants are attended to with that courtesy which should distinguish the real press agent who knows that "it is more blessed to give than to receive." Thus far the Main Shows have met with wonerful success, in most of the towns played turning the folks away from the door, the seats not being vacant, nor to be had for love nor money. The country's prosperity has proved a fairy to circuses this season. People are all working and have money to spend for entertainments.
Notes from Lowery Bros.' Shows. Business ever since our opening has been far beyond expectations, and is by far the largest known in the history of this show, in spite of lots of opposition, which up to this time has not materially affected us. Mr. Lowery has purchased a new sleeper to replace our old one, to be delivered to us at Addison, N.Y. Prof. John Kelley, aeronaut, makes his daring balloon ascension and parachute drop every evening at 7:30, from the show grounds.
Potter and Harris will hereafter be known as Herny and May Potter. They are now touring their annual circus season, and report success.
The Ellet Troupe report meeting with success in their new aerial bar and casting act with the Walter L. Main Shows.
Walter L. Main and Florence L. Main were divorced at Jefferson, O., May 26.
While the Walter L. Main Circus was showing in Batavia, N.Y. last week, a baby camel was born to "Mrs. Damascus," one of the camels of the show.
New York Clipper, June 20, 1903, pp. 390, 396. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Teets Bros. The show has been meeting with success through North and South Carolina, and Tennessee, and is now in Kentucky. The boys are enjoying the hunting and fishing in the mountains. We have one of the neatest twenty-five cent shows in the South, and are playing to ring bank business everywhere. Following is the complete roster: J. P. & J. W. Teets, sole owners; Mrs. N. Teets, treasurer; Floyd Trover, general manager; S. W. Hopkins, advance; R. M. Abbott, country router; Jess Brown has the sides show; Harry Armstrong, band leader, with Harry Armstrong, baritone; Mrs. Armstrong; cornet; Harry Armstrong Jr., cornet; Miss Elva, alto; Henry Snyder, cornet; Frank Morris, tuba; N. Smith, slide trombone; Guy G. Noble, clarionet; Jno. Teets, alto; H. Scott, drums. Performers: A. Alfton, head balancer and wire; Jno. and Lilly Teets, aerialists and impalement act; the Armstrong Family (five in number), aerialists; the Trover Bros., triple bars and grotesques; Will Smith, contortionist and barrel jumper; Dan Lester, clown; Hannah and Agnes Teets, statuary and rolling globes; the Teets Bros.' troupe of trained ponies, dogs, goats and monkeys, Jess Brown and Gertie. Side show consists of big snake, monkeys and birds, Alton, juggling; Prof. Lester, sleight of hand and ledgerdermain; Navilius, ventriloquist; Lilly Teets' den of snakes and fancy rifle shot, two illusions, Anneta, living half lady, and Viola, two headed lady. We have an 80ft. top, with two 40's, and a 50ft. side show, with two 30ft. middles. This show has been on the road a great many years, has not laid up for two years and six months, everybody is well.
Notes from F. W. Burns' New R. R. Shows. We are on the iron belt, in the upper Michigan country, packing them to the ring bank at every performance. At Norway, Mich., we turned hundreds away. At Iron Mountain, Mich., we had a pleasant visit from Vogel's Minstrels, the entire company attending the afternoon performance. Gregory, the hoop roller, of Vogel's Minstrels, sprung a surprise on his friends by clowning the bars. Of course, the minstrel boys enjoyed the performance. Koster is doing a great combination aerial act; Ansel and Adams, in their hand balancing and barrel jumping act, are marvelous; Harry Helma, tramp juggler, makes them scream at every performance; Prof. Burns' trained horses and ponies please the ladies and children; Hershal's trained dogs and goats are a sure hit, introducing boxing dogs, bag punching dog and high diving dog; the Brothers Kohl, on the horizontal bars; Verney, human lizard, and the Loretta Family of acrobats all make more than good. We are having fine circus weather, and so far have only lost one performance on account of rain and storm.
Dr. J. O. E. Allen, an old time showman, died recently at his residence in Birmingham, Ala. He was first taken ill at Wynn, Ark., several months ago, followed by pneumonia. Dr. Allen was born on Dec. 21, 1844, at Hillsboro, O., and during the early days of his career in the show business he was connected with various circuses as a descriptive orator and announcer. The latter part of his life was spent in the medicine business. He was married on June 19, 1878, and his wife and two daughters survive him. The remains were interred in Elm Leaf Cemetery, Birmingham, Ala.
New York Clipper, June 27, 1903, pp. 410, 411, 421. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Indian Bill Side Show. We have met with big success this season. For neatness and generally good appearance it is a model show. Manager Walt. Leslie seemes to be possessed of a peculiar magnetism, which causes so many to visit us. Our roster: Walt. Leslie, manager; Augustus Jones, owner; Prof. Burkhart, lecturer; Billy Lane and Harry Bowman, ticket sellers; Geo. Levasser, Billy Brainard, Odde, snake eater; Bhiber, human ostrich; Lillian Harrington, Gordon Sisters, the Peasleys, Myra Deane, the Great Bearry, Lew Lavelle, Alek Jones, and a band of eight pieces. All are well and making money.
Harry H. La Mount joined Sig. Sautelle's Show May 15, at Amsterdam, N.Y., to do Happy Hooligan in the big show, and his silly kid specialty in the concert. He reports success for his work, and big business for the show. He has signed for next season.
Notes from the Lucky Bill Show. The Lucky Bill Show was stopped for five days on account of the awful flood in Kansas, and we had to change our route on account of all the bridges being washed away. John Wing, the advance man of wagon No. 1, was held upstairs in a livery barn two days and one night, due to the barn, as well as the town, being from four to eighteen feet under water. With difficulty John kept his team from drowning by getting them up in the manger. But at last he was rescued by an old colored woman, who had run a canoe before the war. As it always is with Lucky Bill, no stock or other property was damaged except a load of paper. Times are good, and we are on the move in fine shape with a full crew. In order to get across the river and surplus water to Junction City, Kan., where the show had a large attendance for two days and nights, we had to build a ferry of our own, and when safely landed in the city there were cheers from thousands of people. Lucky Bill, the unfortunate man, started to wade from the ferry to the landing, but soon found himself in deep water, when all at once the swift current took his feet from under him and he was compelled to hang on to a rope with a mighty grip or give an expert exhibition of swimming. However, he was soon rescued by Cowboy Charley's lasso.
H. R. Moore is contracting agent for Campbell Brothers' Shows.
Miles Orton Show notes. Since the show left Chicago we have had nothing but success. Everybody is well with the outfit. On June 14 a crowd of the boys went on a fishing trip at Waterloo, Ind. Among the fishermen were: Prof. O. Murphy, V. O. Clark, Mike Orton, Myron Orton, Jack Berry, Elwood Rockey and John L. Reh. After fishing for five or six hours, with big success, the rest of the day was enjoyed in field sports, such as running and jumping. A creek was chosen for the jumping contest; the creek was eighteen feet wide. Rockey made the first jump, his foot slipped, and he landed in the creek. Jack Berry next jumped, only faring a little better than his brother jumper. After a big lunch all returned to the car, to find the outfit painted in red and blue, making things look bright. After a night of sleep the show opened in Butler, Ind., to a packed tent. This is our last stand in Indiana.
Notes from the Forepaughs Wild West Shows. We have survived the floods, rains and washouts, and although we have not had a dozen clear days since our opening, the show has made money and a reputation to be proud of. Two car loads of dapple grey horses were added to our stock at St. Paul. General agent Harry W. Semon paid us a short visit at Stillwater, and expressed himself as being highly please with the new stock, the general smoothness of the arena peformance, and the running of all departments with the show. Our manager, John A. Barton, is making a host of friends throughout the country, and although this is his first season in handling the managerial reins, he does it with the ease and grace of an old veteran. Mrs. John A. (Susie) Barton and Luella Forepaugh Fish handle the pasteboards at the front door of the big show. Their graceful manner and smiling faces make our patrons feel at home and give an air of tone to our show. Tom Ford, our legal adjuster, is slashing licenses to a remarkably low figure. Tom is a good one, and also makes many friends for the show. John Moss, the famous rube clown, is a recent addition to our arena. This week we invade the iron range of Minnesota, this being the largest railroad show that ever ventured in this territory, and we are looking for a big business at a dolalr admission. Our advance department certainly deserves credit for their work, in face of the rain and floods that they hae been continually mixed in, we always find the towns crowded to their utmost capacity when the parade moves down the street. Bud Horn, "the calliope king," is dispensing the very latest musical publications in a most artistic manner on a fine calliope. One can hear nothing but words of praise from men, women and children for both Bud and the calliope. George F. Fish is now doing the press work ahead of the show. Charles Tompkins, our arena director, is certainly giving an up to date performance. Our production of the Custer massacre is a most interesting, massive and artistically presented illustration of this historical fact. Manager John A. Barton has just sent Sullivan & Eagle, of Peru, Ind., an order to build us six new baggage wagons. Our No. 2 advertising car came vey near being burned up on the Northrn Pacific Railway recently. A burning car of telegraph poles on a freight train was stopped directly opposite the advertising car, the heat and flames igniting and would have demolished the advertising car only for the timely appearance of our agent, Phil. W. Stinson, and his brigade of men, who were just returning from breakfast, when they discovered the car on fire, and with the aid of a bucket brigade and with some quick action succeeded in stopping the fire, and it was a lucky thing, as the car had just been loaded the day before with thirty days' printing. Fred Green has been appointed local contracting agent, which conclusively shows that general agent Harry W. Semon is appreciative of good work and loyalty by promoting his men whenever opportunity affords. We expect another car load of horses next Sunday, and manager Barton says that he will leave no stone unturned, and will use every effort to keep the Luella Forepaugh-Fish Wild West Shows at the foremost of all exhibitions of its kind now in America.
Notes from Chapman's Big Four R. R. Shows. We opened our season May 30, at Turtle Creek, Pa., for two performances, to ring bank business in afternoon, and we had big crowds at night. Business has been big every day since the opening. Wm. Chapman, manager; Mrs. Mattie Chapman, treasurer; Dan Mieke and N. W. Miller, ticket sellers; Chas. May, inside ticket seller; Mable May, Elsie Warner, ticket takers; Thomas ___, general agent; ___ Black, local contracting agent; G. B. Watts, manager car No. 1, with ten bill posters; Elmer Mygrant, leader of band, with ten solo musicians; Gibbs Sisters, Myrtle and Mattie; Hoover and Hoover; Captain Adair; Leonhart and Smith, eccentric comedy jugglers and clowns; W. F. Franklin, champion barrel jumper and illustrated songs; Mrs. Florence Franklin, lady clown; James Sanders, heavy weight lifter; Chas. Weir, magician; O. D. Osborn, single trapeze and table act; Rose Evans and Gertie Haywood, impalement act; the Great Stafford Family of six, society acrobats; Bert and Little Taw, with their wonderful horizontal bar work and breakaway ladder; the Three ____, slack wire performers and bicycle riders. Our top is 100ft., with two 30ft. middle pieces, in charge of W. E. Griffin. "Red" Smith is chandelier man, Chas. Brown, wardrobe man, and Otto Sauder train master.
Jack S. Jeffers has signed with Hall & Sample's Circus, after a short rest at his home in Cedar Falls, Ia.
Notes from the Ringling Bros.' World's Greatest Shows. The big show arrived in Port Huron, Mich., Friday, June __, after an eighteen days' trip through Canada, where we played to the capacity of the canvas daily. The Canadian press and public were unanimous in their praise of the Ringing Brothers and their methods of transacting business. Robert Meek, superintendent of ring stock, who was left at the hospital in Albany, N.Y., stopped off at London, Can., on his way home to Baraboo, Wis., where he will rest for two weeks. Frank Smith, "the upside down man," also has been on the sick list for the past two weeks, is back at work again. Michael Rooney, champion bareback rider of the world, who has been suffering with an affliction of the eyes for several weeks, stayed in London, Can., and submitted to a delicate surgical operation. Peter Shields, of the mechanical department, died at the City Hospital, Toronto, from typhoid pneumonia. He was ill but ten days. At Toronto, on Monday, June __, James McDonald, seat man, died from pneumonia. His home was in Toronto, and the funeral services were held on Wednesday. Ringling Brothers' beautiful spectacular production of "Jerusalem and the Crusades," has been pronounced the finest ever seen under a circus canvas. Walter L. Main came on to Brantford to take a peep at the spectacle. ___ Rio, of the Three Rio Brothers, left the show last week, in order to take treatment for stomach trouble. He will join again in Beloit, Wis. The comrades of James McDonald, who died at Toronto, sent a beautiful floral offering on the day of the funeral. The offering came from the seat and canvas men, under Jack Snelling.
Eddie Lamont, musical act and baton juggler, is in his fifth week with Sun Bros.' Circus, and reports meeting with success.
Notes from the Pawnee Bill Wild West. The show has felt the effects of the recent storms in Ohio, but, while they hampered the handling of the show, the business was remarkable. Erne Houghton is now train master, and is making a great hit. Harry Bradden, the master mechanic, is one of the busiest men around the lot, and is on the go all the time. We are now in Pennsylvania, and a McKees Rocks we stood hundreds of people up, and with the exception of Pittsburg and Wheeling, it was one of the largest night houses of the season.
John H. Sparks' Show notes. ___, one of the performing lions with the shows, gave birth to three baby lions recently, at Mechanicsburg, Pa., during the show's visit in that city. This show is doing a big business, and the young cubs will no doubt be a good drawing card in the menagerie protion of the entertainment.
New York Clipper, July 4, 1903, pp. 436, 438. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Pawnee Bill Show notes. We have just closed our seventh week of what promises to be the most successful season the Pawnee Bill Show has ever had. We have encountered extremely bad weather, but our business has been phenomenal. Our street parade is one of the finest ever given with any "Wild West," and the most novel given with any tented organization. There are seventeen different languages spoken with the show, and, with their national costumes and trappings, they make a very interesting feature for our parade. The side show is a revelation, not only to the general public, but to all show men who have visited us this season. . . .
John Robinson Show notes. R. C. Carlisle, assistant manager of the John Robinson Big Shows, called together the members of the circus at Slatington, Pa., May __, in the parlor of the American Hotel. They responded and decided to organize a branch of the Benevolent Order of Amerian Tigers, No. 2. . . .
Notes from Buffalo Bill's Wild West, touring Great Britain. We finished a fortnight's engagement in a blaze of glory at Birmingham. On Sunday, June 7, there was born in the wigwam of Chief Standing Bear (Col. Cody's Indian interpreter), a squaw papoose. The following Tuesday manager Graham had the much talked about Indian baby and mother on exhibition in the annex, and they proved a potent attraction. The appetite of Alphonse, our "human ostrich," is getting rather expensive. On several occasions he has swallowed a six pence or a half sovereign, and asking for them has become part of his daily patter. Friday, June 12, at Birmingham, an old gentleman offered him a five pound note to appease his fastidious appetite. Not to be buffaloed, Alphonse tore the bill in two parts and swallowed them. The old fellow took the number of the bill, and will doubtless ask the government to reimburse him. At Worcester, June 15, Jake Posy, our superintendent of stock, met with a painful accident, a horse falling on him and spraining the tendons of the left knee. June 16, Prof. Griffin, lecturer, was remembered by his associates with a handsome gold medal, a shield with two crossed swords, inscribed as follows: "Presented to Charles Griffin by members of the Annex, Buffalo Bill Show, Birmingham, Eng., June 16, 1903." The occasion was the genail professor's birthday.
Notes from the W. M. Coleman Shows. We are in our seventh week, meeting with big success. Peter Boylan is sole owner and manager; J. E. Noble, general agent; May Adeska, treasurer; Prof. ___'s male and female band of fifteen; Jim Zack, general superintendent, with twenty men; John Krall, equestrian director. The Four Banvards, casting act, are making a hit with their somersault, hand to hand, and double somersault, full twisters; Prof. W. O. Nichols sends them away laughing with his bucking mules. Our clowns are: Wm. Graves, John O'Donnell, Eddie Moss, Bill Cassidy, Fred Johnson, Louis Pruchniack and Peter Cornalia Jr., singing clown; Rose Cornalia [Cornalla?], Kremo Bros, hand to hand acrobats; Emma Boetcher, swinging perch and slack wire; Fields Sisters, double traps; Prof. Nicholson's troupe of trained dogs and ponies; Three Jordans, Roman ladders and balancing perch; Master Fred Johnson, pony hurdle; and Five De Montrevilles, trick house. We are featuring the Eight Cornalias, acrobats. Concert people: Chas. Garvin, Boylan Children, Harrison and Krall, Jay De Ome, and the Four Heagler Children. We have added three more cages, tableau and band wagon.
Roster of the Great Melbourne Shows. Wintermute Bros., proprietors; Chas. Dryden, juggling and dancing barrel; Howard Beall, cannon ball act; Thos. Hayes, slack wire and rings; the Bealls, stong act; Le Bay Bros., double traps and bars; and Hattie Beall, tight wire. Our troupe of ponies, dogs and goats are considered by all who see them the best exhibited with a wagons show. The band includes: John Hazelwood, leader; Lew Schoup, cornet; R. E. Dodge, clarionet; A. E. Johnson, alto; R. C. Hoffman, slide trombone; Claude E. ___, baritone; A. R. Bent, tuba, and Albert Middleton, trap drummer. Clarence Beach has charge of stock; "Monk" Domer is in charge of canvas. Our season opened May 2 at Palmyra, Wis. We are touring the Eastern part of Iowa, and although we had considerable cold and rainy weather to contend with the fore part of the season, business has been good. The past two weeks we have been "standing them up" at nearly every performance.
Indian Bill notes. On Monday night, June 22, at Columbia, Pa., twenty-two members of Indian Bill's Wild West were initiated into Susquehanna Aerie, Fraternal Order of Eagles, No. 293. Through the instrumentality of Thos. Nailor and John Behan, of New York Aerie, and Frank Blair, secretary of the house committee of Susquehanna Aerie, a special dispensation was secured, whereby the following could be admitted: Henry J. Leonard, Harry P. Bowman, H. T. McGuire, Alex Jones, Robt. ___, Bert G. Amaden, Wm. T. Harrington, Charlie ___, Donald McDonald, A. J. Anderson, Walter M. Leslie, Albert Ackerman, S. H. McNair, Chas. Gilbertson, W. C. Lane, Benj. J. Lander, Lew Lavelle, P. P. Craft, Gus Burkhart, E. A. Bondeson, Clarence Erickson, W. C. Brainard and Wm. E. Chambers. A most enjoyable social sesssion was held after the initiation, music being furnished by the Indian Bill Mexican Band. At 1:30 a.m., all marched in a body to the show train, which was all loaded, and only waiting for the new Eagles to move to the next stand.
Sautelle notes. The side show with the Sig. Sautelle Big R. R. Shows, under the management of Jas. A. Morrow, is doing just twice the business it has ever done in the history of the show. Manager Morrow makes all the openings and concert announcements; Goat Smith, John McBride, Lew Mack and Jas. ___ are the all day "grinders"; ___ Morrow, bag puncher; Prof. Geo. Mellivan, tattooed man; Chas. Hilbert, magic; Le Clair and Mello, Hindoo box mystery; Mlle. Leland, fortune teller; Harry Moulton, ventriloquist and Punch; Joe Cramer, rubber neck man; Sampson, lion slayer; La Belle French, dancing girl; Misses Russell, Simpson, Smith and De Forrest, in poses plastique, and Prof. Davis' colored minstrels and band of twelve pieces.
C. H. Smith writes: "The Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Concert Band, under the leadership of W. N. Merrick, gave a sacred concert at the new Menominee Opera House June 21, to a good house. The band is composed of thirty-five talented musicians. After the first number the audience gave a round of applause. Master Izzy Kaufman, the boy tenor, who is a feature with the band, scored strongly. Mr. Merrick is one of the oldest directors in the musical profession, and with his present organization is ___ to present to the public one of the best bands traveling."
Notes from Ringling Brothers' World's Greatest Shows. Charles Sherman, watchman, on No. 3 section, had three fingers mashed June 16, while assisting in unloading a pole wagon. Fred Gibson, a seat man, met with a peculiar accident a few days ago. While attempting to open a window in the Glendive car he thrust his hand through the glass. An artery in his wrist was severed. A fine specimen of the black antelope was born during the week and is a great favorite among the men who are under menagerie superintendent Jenks. Mike Rooney returned to the show at Detroit and is again riding. His eyes are greatly improved since he submitted to an operation at Kingston, Ontario. A wee black pony colt is the crowning feature at the horse tents. The little fellow is called Meagher, in honor of Kerry Meagher, treasurer of the show. Reno McCree, who is riding with the big show this season, was warmly greeted at his old home, Toledo. Several bunches of flowers were sent to him in the dressing room, Thursday, 25, when the big show reached Muncie, Ind., the performers learned that Charley Robinson, at one time with the Herbert Brothers, acrobats, was buried there. A fund was quickly raised, and after the matinee a beautiful bouquet was placed on the grave. The perfect system in vogue in all the many departments of the Ringling Show is a revelation to the newspaper men who are daily visitors. It is really marvelous to them, and to all laymen for that matter, to be shown the system by which the Ringlings draw eighty-five cars into a city at four in the morning, unload them, give a parade, erect acres of canvas, present two shows on time, and then load again, all in one day. Numberous complimentary articles have been written on this subject, and the general opinion advanced is that the big show has the most practical system extant. Credit is due the superintendents of the departments for the manner in which they handle the show. A. Webb, the steward, takes out the flying squadron each night before eleven o'clock. The squadron is the first section, loaded with cook tents and other paraphernalia of the kind, and with parade wagons and a portion of the menagerie. This train reaches the next stand long before daylight, and Webb is enabled to get his tents up and have breakfast ready by the time the other trains arrive. Robert Taylor is handling the trains in a masterly manner, and usually has them loaded and the beacons snuffed before 1:30 a.m. "Happy Jack" snelling, who has had the canvas for years, has gathered together a remarkable good set of assistants and men, and gets the numerous tops up in double quick time, while Spencer Delavan and Edward Jinks, his assistants, pull the entire show from the cars to the lot in less than two hours. At Hamilton, O., record time was made by the boss hostler. Although the haul from the runs to the lot was over a mile, he had every wagon there in one hour and forty minutes after the first van was unloaded. Charles Miller is again in charge of the properties, and gets through with his work without the least bit of confusion. The workingmen are all experienced, and work like trojans. No shows have been omitted, and only on two occesions has it been necessary to call off the parade. At Detroit and Toledo the rain fell in torrents, and at the last minute the parade was abandoned. The weather cleared a bit in both cities during the afternoon, and business was splendid. Business has been away above average in every stand; in fact, it has been almost a series of turnaways, especially in opposition towns, like Detriot, Toledo, Muncie, Danville, Bloomington, etc. With shows ahead of the Ringlings and shows behind them, the attendance has been better than ever, and present indications point to the fact that this will be a record breaking year. The fact that the Ringlings have the best show they have ever presented, and can handle it without the least bit of friction or dealy, is, no doubt, responsible for the immense business.
Barnum & Bailey notes. The phenomenal success of the great Barnum & Bailey Circus is amazing the entire amusement world. It is unprecedented, and yet to one who becomes acquainted with the methods employed in operating this gigantic enterprise, there is little cause for wonder. Little cause for astonishment when its perfect organization is considered, the harmony which pervades its every department, the unanimity of action of all hands concerned, the overshadowing influence which is an inspiration and a guide in the carrying on of this gigantic enterprise. "Harmony" is the watchword. It found its being in all 'round square dealing on the part of those in command of the various divisions emanating from the general in command, James Anthony Bailey. And from the humblest employee to the highest salaried agent, everybody knowns that to do his duty means recognition. Petty jealousies are not tolerated . . . and all are treated with the utmost consideration at all times. This has been the real secret of Mr. Bailey's success as the proprietor and manager of great amusement enterprises. Without this perfect organization he would not be able to properly cater to the public, much less to present the Greatest Show on Earth. The Barnum & Bailey Circus has never been obliged to suffer the worries and tribulations of some other organizations on this account. Every person connected with the enterprise feels that he is a part and parcel of it, and consequently works for its success. When one takes into consideration the fact that in a period of over a quarter of a century Mr. Bailey has never had to lose a moment's peace of mind because of a strike on the part of his employees, it is gratifying evidence of the manner in which he presides over the fortunes of his mammoth institution. There has never been a strike; there has never been a cause for a strike. It is true that on one or two occasions rumors have been put into circulation that a strike was on, but the rumors were set afloat by petty shows seeking to make capital at our expense. Louis E. Cooke, Mr. Bailey's personal representative, has this to say: "A short time ago we were obliged to abandon an afternoon's performance, having arrived in town late in the day. It occurred to us on another occasion just shortly after we started on the one day stands, which gave rise to a rumor that the men had gone on strike and refused to set up the canvas. The facts are just these: Our show is so cumbersome, so mighty, that for a long time it was a perplexing proposition how we would ever be able to make the one day stands in time, and particularly when long jumps were to be made. The railroads have been strained to the utmost to handle our four trains, comprising 92 of the heaviest cars ever constructed, and, of cours, proper transportation means much to us. Then our new seating arrangements are the ___ ever ___ with a circus. The reserved seats are of iron and are what is known as French opera chairs. Even in our general admission seats we provide better accommodations and more comfortable than ever known before, actually providing foot rests in that department. Instead of ropes, about the arena are used heavy nickel pipe rails. Our poles are immensely tall and equally heavy, and require horse as well as man power to erect them. We spread more canvas in our horse tents than is to be found in several of the advertised three ring shows, and our 'menagerie top' is larger than the 'big top' of any other circus. . . . However we have everything in apple pie order now, and we shall carry out our itinerary in a successful issue. By the way, we were obliged to change our dates in several instances in order to make our railroad connections, so as to give the performance on time. The proper provisioning of the show, too, entered somewhat in the causes for making changes, for we have 1,000 people to feed three times a day, our 600 horses, besides our menagerie. To announce that Barnum & Bailey's men have gone on strike is very annoying to Mr. Bailey, for one of his proudest boasts is that there never has been even any cause for a strike since he first became a manager of an amusement enterprise. Furthermore, every man in his employ, even the humblest laborer, grows indignant at such reports. After the show left Madison Square Garden, and we began our season under canvas, we experienced all kinds of perflexities, and for ten solid days and nights Mr. Bailey never slept even the proverbial forty winks. He is the head and front of the institution, and to his genius, and his genius only, has it been made possible to continue our tour this season. HIs genius is of the transcendental order. When his trained, long experienced lieutenants, no matter of what department or division, get into deep water, he wades in, figuratively speaking, and rescues them from their predicament. Of the show itself it is scarcely necessary for me to say a word - the press of the country is doing that, and doing it well."
The Great Pan-American Circus and European Menagerie is still in Canada, doing, we are informed, a splendid business. Walter J. Nichols is the railroad contractor; Chas. Ellis, local contractor; W. S. Dunnington, manager of advertising car No. 1, and B. Rosenthal, special agent.
Notes from the Curito Circus, Brewer & Husted, sole owners and proprietors; Lee Thompson, manager and treasurer; Arthur L. Husted, musical dirctor; Chase A. Hoopes, assistant manager and secretary; R. De Wolfe, equestrian director, and R. C. McDaniel, boss canvas man. We are in our fifth week in northern Ohio, and doing a good business, under a seventy-five foot round top, with two thirty foot middle pieces. We number twenty people at present, and carry a band and orchestra, under the direction of Arthur L. Husted. On or about July 14 we expect to greatly enlarge our show, and will play all good sized towns through Ohio and Pennsylvania.
The Ryan & Zorella Troupe are en route with the Forepaugh-Sells Bros. Circus.
Lew Mack, side show talker, writes that owning to severe illness, he was obliged to close with the Sig. Sautelle Big R. R. Shows at Putnam, Conn., June 10, and is living on a farm in Massachusetts.
Lester and Mack write: "We are in our seventh week with the Whitney Family Shows and are making a success, adding new tricks and features every week, also introduc our kneeling forward somersaults."
Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Show. We are touring West Virginia. At Kingwood not one hald the people could get in the tent. We were there for two days, matinee and night. We find people of West Virginia very liberal, and intend staying in West Virginia for two months. However, Howard and Earl have joined. The following people are now with the show: A. F. Tuttle, Mrs. A. F. Tuddle, Jessie Troy, contortionist and trained dogs; Stewart Bros., triple bars, traps and rings . . . Howard and Earl, carrying perch, wire and sketch. J. Moore, violinist; E. P. Catrell, organist; E. S. George, cornettist; Geo. Shyrock, chandelier man; Butler, boss canvas man, with three assistants; Johnnie ___, props; "Whitie" Cook, Fred Leonard, bosss hostler. The show is doing a big business, and everything runs smoothly.
Notes from Harry De Forrest's New Show. We met with our first bad night on Saturday, June 20. The show was by the side of a river. It rained so hard we started to get wagons ready for a quick move. No trouble came until five o'clock Sunday morning, when we were in four feet of water. We started people out of sleeping tents for places of safety. Water today (Sunday) is six feet high. We have all our trunks and clothes safe, also dogs and monkeys, but we can not get to our tents, and seats are going down with the rushing water. We will try to show in halls next week, but it will be a big loss for this little show. This is our first losing stand. Salaries have been paid in full to date. Mr. and Mrs. Ted Eyck's double dancing was a success here.
New York Clipper, July 11, 1903, p. 465. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Burns & Co.'s New R. R. Shows. Our season came to an abrupt ending, June 20, at Colby, Wis. A terrific wind and water spout struck our mammoth tent during our night performance, while Helms, tramp juggler, was doing his act. Mr. Helms took the situation in at a glance and instantly shouted at the top of his voice for everybody to leave the tent at once. Lightning flashed and thunder crashed, then came the collapse of the large tent. Performers dressed in their make ups, leaving their belongings to seek shelter in neighboring houses. Canvas men waded knee deep in water, trying to save property; luckily no one was injured. Lou Hershel's trained goats and our trained mule came near being drowned. They were rescued under difficulties by Joe Dokes, our boss canvs man. Early in the morning, when the sun came out bright, performers found their trunks floating in a huge pond of water. Everybody gathered up their belongings, while our managers, Messrs. Burns & Hoeffler, held a hasty business consultation and decided to close. Salaries were paid in full to everybody connected with the show. . . .
Alex A. Lowande will join Forepaugh-Sells Show at Mankato, Minn., July 9.
Reed's European Show notes. We closed our fourteenth week July 4, at Fredricksburg, Va., giving three shows during the day to capacity at each performance. At every stand, when it did not rain, we have showed to overflowing crowds. This is our eighteenth season, and up to the present time has been the most successful manager Reed has ever had. Although we have encountered swollen streams, bridges washed away, flooded lots, etc., we have reached every stand except during April and June 9 we lost shows on account of hard rain, but the show moved every day since our opening, April 4, at Petersburg, Va., and we have been in the State ever since. We are now in the trucking section of Maryland, where money is plenty, and are reaping the dollars at every night show, this being the first big show in this section in four years, and we will remain here until close of the season. The advance has dome some clever contracting and routing under the charge of J. Geo. Hudgins, with three bill posters. What is remarkable, we have been the first show in this season and have not had any opposition since our opening date; in fact, the advance has not covered one sheet of paper belonging to other shows, until they reached Alexandria, Va.; there they covered the Barnum & Bailey paper, this being the first tent show at Alexandria in several years. At both performances we played to the capacity and the concert was the largest this season. Everything around the show is moving smoothly, not one change has been made since we opened, and we are happy to report best of health and good feeling - everyone working for our success. We now have twenty-two wagons, with fifty-five head of horses to move the show with, two single and one double teams in advance and carry a hundred foot top, with two thirty foot middle pieces, sixty by thirty foot horse tent. There are thirty-eight people with the show and we can safely say we have one of the neatest wagon shows traveling, although we are some days away from railroads and boats.
Mr. and Mrs. Joe W. Cousins have joined the Walter L. Main Shows.
Notes from the Great Barlow Show. We are still on the road, and business is fine. The rainy weather was bad all through June and show neither made or lost any money, but July, so far, has been fine. We hold our same performres that opened with the show.
Notes from Indian Bill's Wild West. We played at Waterbury, Conn., three days behind the Barnum & Bailey Shows, and succeeded in turning people away at both performances. The actual number of paid admissions was 14,320 for the two performances in that city. The side show receipts were over $800 for the day. As our entire advance force are union men, we had the advantage in the billing, and under general agent Whittier's able direction, we had the best showing in the city. Augustus Jones, manager of Indian Bill's Wild West, has purchased a valuable piece of property in Florida. The tract embraces a handsome old mansion, stables, green houses, and fine orange grove. A. J. Anderson is doing the announcing, and has the banner privilege with the Indian Bill Wild West. In most towns one can hardly see the side wall for his large display of banners. Bill Brainard reports big business in his Oriental annex with the Indian Bill Wild West. He has five genuine Arabian dancing girls, and four Arabian musicians.
W. W. Brown, of the Norris & Rowe Show, had the misfortune to lose one of his fingers while the train was being loaded at Wallace, Idaho.
P. P. Craft, press agent of Indian Bill's Wild West, will again manager Conroy & Mack's Attractions during the coming season. He will close with the Indian Bill Show Sept. _.
The Cook Sisters, somersault riders, report making a hit with the Pan-American Show.
New York Clipper, July 18, 1903, p. 480. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Bonheur Bros.' Show notes. On the night of July _ a fierce storm came up at Beattie, Kan., just as the outside attraction was in progress. The audience began coming into the big tent, while lightning played around in close proximity to the entrance. One tremendous bolt came near striking the iron pipe pole that supported the gasoline beacon light in front of the high dive ladder. The dark clouds rolled up on folds, denoting a force of wind behind them; yet, in spite of the terrible, ominous aspect of the sky, the people steadily poured into the tent and filled up the seast, while the artillery of the heavans crashed and boomed. Five acts were all that could be given, and the audience was dismissed, and very reluctantly left the tent, but on reaching the outside, terror seemed to take possession of the women and children, and cars were hurriedly brought up to take them home through the rain that was pouring down in sheets. Blacker clouds were disclosed moving up behind the first cloud banks that were pouring a deluge of water over the departing audience, and busy canvas boys, taking down the tents, were soon wet to the skin, as no time was given to don rain coats. The tents, however, were soon safe from the approaching hurricane. The show could not pull out for Marysville in the night, as intended, and had a hard pull through sticky mud, next morning, to reach that place in time for an afternoon show. The celebration of the Fourth, at Marysville, was a detriment, rather than a help, to increase business for the show, and there was not a very large crowd to the celebration. There was a good night attendance. The distance from Fairbury, Neb., to Marysville, is just thirty miles, and among the visitors from the Campbell Bros.' home, were Mrs. W. P. Campbell, their good old mother, and her three daughters, Jennie, May and Rosie, who were guests of the show at the afternoon performance. Mrs. Campbell and her daughter, Jenie, honored the manages by accepting an invitation to take supper in the dining tent, and their visit was a very pleasant one.
Forepaugh-Sells notes. We are in our tenth week, and meeting, as of yore, with flattering success, crowding the mammoth big top to its full seating capacity. Our trip through Michigan and Wisconsin has been a pleasant one, notwithstanding we encountered many rainy and chilly days. At Eau Claire, Wis., on July 2, we encountered a very heavy storm, causing a washout on the road, delaying our trains so that it was only possilbe to give one exhibition at St. Paul. The crowd at the performance was so large that it was almost impossilbe to handle it. On July 4, at Minneapolis, at both afternoon and evening performances people were turned away. Arriving at our new stands from day to day, we are greeted by a mass of people both at the unloading station and at the grounds, eager to watch the unloading and the erecting of the tents, and seem amazed at the quickness with which everything is put in order. Our dining tents, two in number, are at all times a curiosity shop for a score of people. Will Dracon, manager of the cooking department, is so well versed in this line of business that he not only reaches the palates of the most delicate, but is able to astound the many onlookers at the way the big show "feed." G. E. Bucey is assistant business manager of the big show, and is widely known throughout circus and theatrical profession. Will Spath, treasurer of the show, was compelled to go to a hospital at Minneapolis for a few days, and his friends are eager to give him a cordial welcome back with the show upon his recovery.
Notes from Indian Bill's Wild West. We are enjoying a phenomenally large business through Connecticut. In Waterbury we succeeded in "standing them up" at both performances. As our advance forces are composed solely of union men, we naturally had the advantage in billing Waterbury, and Indian Bill paper was on every prominent wall and bill board and in the store windows. Our Wild West exhibition is giving the best of satisfaction, and flattering press comments are received in every city visited. Sie Hassen Ben Ali's Five Whirlwinds of the Desert are scoring strongly with their wonderful acrobatic work. Manager Augustus Jones visited Chicago last week, where he purchased a car load of fine horses. Geo. Levassuer, one of the features of the side show, who lives in Waterbury, was welcomed by a legion of friends. Manager Walt Leslie had photos taken of the opening here, July 4. Roster of the side show at present is: Prof. Geo. Burkhart, Geo. Lavassuer, Wm. Brainard, Edward Carter, W. C. Lane, Big Elmo, Alveretta, Netta Peasly, Helena De Mar, Gordon Sisters, and Walt Leslie, manager.
Notes from Colorado Grant's Show. The show has been playing to good business all summer. It is much larger this season, as we carry two rings, an elevated stage, over sixty people, and about forty head of fine trained stock. We spent the Fourth of July at Milan, Ind., and packed the tent at both performances, afternoon and night. After the night show Mr. Grant entertained his performers and musicians with a grand display of fireworks. The roster is: Mr. Grant, in his fifteen horse military drill; Mrs. Grant, with her troupe of trained ponies; Charles Axley, juggler and hand balancer; Wm. Johnson, outside ascension and single trapeze; Frank Brown and wife, double trapeze and flying perch; the Treetors, in their Roman statuary act; Arthur Berre, dancing tight rope and principal bar performer; James Bowles, comedy juggler and slack wire performer; Mr. and Mrs. Grant, in their famous act, introducing Topsy and Jessie, the great cake walking horses; the Lazell Bros., revolving ladder and brother act; Berre and Morton, Chinese table act and comedy acrobats; Stanfield and his troupe of trained dogs and goats; Bob Ronalzo, principal clown . . . Prof. Ladman and his solo band, is one of the features of the show. The roster of side show or annex is: Nat Robinson, side show talker and ticket seller; Madame Zela and her den of snakes; Prince Etta, sword walker and dancing on broken glass; "Kent," the famous educated horse; Mlle. Seleta; Mr. Treetor, cannon ball juggler and heavy weight lifter; Hokes Bros., in their comedy boxing act, and Mrs. Treetor, female bag puncher.
Notes from Skerbeck's Great One Ring Circus. We have been on the road eight weeks, and, in spite of bad weather and strong opposition, the show has done an immense business. . . . Tony White, with his trained horses and mules, joined the show at Ashland, Wis., May 25, and are a feature. Z. T. Scovill is doing his high wire act for free attraction. Roster: Frank Skerbeck, sole owner; Joe Skerbeck, business manager; A. J. Penny, advance; Harry Dickinson has the side show; Joe Sopp, band leader. We have an 80ft. top, with a 40ft. middle piece; side show, 40x70ft. Everyone is well and enjoying good health.
Notes from the Indian Bill Wild West advance. Everything is moving with its accustomed serenity in the advance department of this show. W. H. Hoskins, late of the "Uncle __ Spruceby" co., recently joined as manager of No. 2 car. Harry Bowman and Geo. Schultz are recent acquisitions. With good paper, judiciously distributed and posted, the show follows in our wake to uniformly good business.
Notes from the Younger & James Wild West. C. W. Courtney, comedy juggler, is the feature of the side show; Lew Nichols is manager of the side show and concert; W. L. Salvail is doing magic and making announcements.
New York Clipper, July 25, 1903, pp. 511, 514. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Luella Forepaugh-Fish Wild West Shows. We are now in our twelfth week, and, strange to say, regardless of strong opposition, thirty-nine days of rain, and endless other obstacles that we have encountered, our business has been exceptionally big. In many rainy days the "extras" had to be put in order to accomodate the vast crowds that came to witness our exhibition. Our big spectacular street parade, with its many new and novel features, elephants, camels, buffalos, open dens, gilded tableaux, three superb bands of music, steam calliope, cowgirls, cowboys, Indians, U.S. soldiers, cavalry, artillery, rough riders, Arabs, Russian cossacks, Mexicans, British sholdiers, and other foreign contingent, making a parade over a mile long, and is pronounced by all to be the largest and most unique of any similar exhibition. We have lately added many novelties to our already large arena displays that have heretofore never been introduced in a Wild West show. Our menagerie of twenty cages is an important addition to a Wild West show. Our side show, under the able direction of "Vic" Hugo, is doing a phenomenal business, featuring Bessie Diavolo, looping the loop on a bicycle.
Notes from Indian Bill's Wild West Show. Several new features have recently been added to the Indian Bill Wild West, also a car load of new horses, making the show one of the largest and best Wild West exhibitions in America. Manager Augustus Jones is arranging for several large theatrical enterprises which he will launch during the season. The twenty-three Eagles with this show were royally entertained by the Waterbury, Conn. aerie on the night of July 4. H. A. Mann, formerly of the opposition car of the Forepaugh-Sells Bros. Show, has charge of our advance car No. 1, replacing W. H. Hoskins, who is now doing local contracting. Business with the show is big.
Jerome and Edwards, acrobats, have joined the Wallace Williams Shows, where Mr. Jerome has entire charge as equestrian director, and his wife, Lillian Jerome, is director of concert, and they report very good business.
Col. H. C. Hunt, well known to circus men, died at his home at Burlington, Ia., July 11, at the age of eighty-three years. His remains were interred in Asper Grove Cemetery, 12. Many members of the Ringling Bros. Show attended the services.
Notes from Bert Silver and Silver Family Tent Show. We opened May 18, and have lost only two nights so far. Business has been big, this being the first season for this show. We carry twenty people, and have eleven head of horses, and the show is giving the best of satisfaction. We take a three days' rest at Acme (Bert Silver's former home) next week, to visit Mr. Sliver's father and mother.
Martino, aerialist, has closed with Tanner Bros.' United Shows, and is now en route with the Great Canada Frank's R. R. Shows.
The Three Rio Brothers, Otto, Rio and ___, who are in their twelfth week with Ringling Bros.' Shows, will open on the Kohl & Castle circuit Dec. 14, with other Western and Eastern dates to follow.
Notes from Hall & Sample's Shows. Roster: the Three Fontinelles (Robt. C., Harrietta and Baby Nina; Robt. St. Clair, balancing trapeze and ___, concert; Hattie Andras, sailor perch and concert; Bert Willis, Spanish rings; Ernest ___, traps, revolving ladder and tubling; Jack S. Jeffers, clown and concert; Frank Malone, tumbling and concert; Prof. Mansfield's troupe of dogs. We have Prof. B. W. Morris' Band of eight mouth pieces, with Harrietta Fontinelle as drum major. Although we have had much rain and bad roads, business has been very good for us through northern Iowa and southern Minnesota. This is our twelfth week.
H. T. Hoffman, press agent of Walter L. Main's Circus, will close with that show July 22, to take charge of the business end of the Hoffman Bros.' Printing Co., of Jersey City, N.J., in which concern he has a third ___.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's New Railroad Shows. Since our opening day business has been at the highest possible notch. We have had several "turn aways," and in New York and Maine plenty of opposition. In the latter, where the rivalry was keenest, our receipts at each stand far exceeded what we took on our previous visit, five years ago, when we had the entire state to ourselves. Storms have been numerous, wind and rain causing us to lose both shows at Webster, Mass., June 12, and the night performance at Machlas, Me., July 2. Dating from the latter part of June we have broken in considerable new territory, including Millinocket, which had never had a circus until we arrived. Our menagerie is now of goodly size,yet, not content, "the governor" has placed an order with William Bartels for a pair of zebras, four elephants and several smaller animals. Roger, one of the largest elephants in this country, and its infant companion, Baby Bell, are being taught an act which will be ready for presentation very soon. There are new nearly four hundred people with the shows, sixty-eight of whom are in the big show dressing room. We have added a new stock car, and are in the market for two flats, two sleepers and two more stocks. Our side show, under the management of James Morrow, is getting big bunches of the long green daily, as is the Oriental Theatre, under the direction of William Dorris. Two rings, a large platform and race track are required for the performance.
Chas. Hillert writes: "This is my tenth week with the Sig. Sautelle Big R. R. Shows, doing magic and box mystery in the side show, and am making a big hit. Also, the business done so far is stupendous and exceeds all expectations. This side show, under the management of J. A. Morrow, is considered one of the best on the road. Mr. Hillert has just recieved a lot of new wardrobe and stage settings, which cost a good round sum."
Notes from Sells & Downs' Circus. Doc Ogden, our ever popular and gentlemanly side show manager, was presented with an elegant watch, chain and engraved charm on his birthday, July 11, at Valley City, No. Dak., from the attaches of the side show. The show is still doing a wonderful business.
Sam Dock's Keystone Show reports good business at the small towns in Pennsylvania. The show is headed for New York State, where it expects to spend a short season.
New York Clipper, August 1, 1903, p. 535. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Ringling Brothers' World's Greatest Shows. Estella ___, a sister of Ida Miaco, menage rider and contortionist, has been added to the big list of performers. Charles Crook, a promising young somersault rider, joined at Kansas City. Martin Dullard, of the Acrobatic Dullards, has taken pictures of everything of interest in nearly every city visited by the big show this season, and in a diary has jotted down notes relative to the pictures. He will take them back to Germany at the close of the season, and will endeavor the demonstrate to his friends just how this good old country of ours looks. The Dullards were imported by the Ringling Brothers, and the present season is the first they have had in the United States. The monster pipe organ, one of the many new processional wonders of the Ringling Show this season, is one of the big features of the parade. Professor Cross is an accomplished organist, and plays everything from rag time to "Old Hundred." Fred Ledgett and wife (Dollie Julien) recently visited their old home in Rockford, Ill. Mrs. Ledgett's sister, Linda Stevens, returned to the show with her, and is now a member of the ballet in the beautiful spectacular production of "Jerusalem." Albert Crandall, the originator of the burlesque mule act, is celebrating the arrival of the first Miss Crandall. Mrd. Crandall, who was one of the Leon Sisters, acrobats, is at the home of her mother in New Albany, Ind. William Sells, of Sells & Downs Circus, visited us at Des Moines. Business continues big, just as it has been since the opening in Chicago. The red seats, the extras, have been in every day, and the six doors at the front have been opened daily. Only one day has been lost this season, July 17, at Ft. Dodge, Ia. A rain that greatly resembled a cloud burst was falling when the first section arrived, and the first wagons off the cars went through the streets and sunk to the hubs in the mud. Colonel Delevan "hoop roped" them, and even with twenty-four horses, was unable to get them to the lot. The stable wagon broke in twain, and as the rain continued to fall in torrents, Charles Ringling ordered all the wagons back to the railroad, and decided that it would be impossible to show. After considerable difficulty the wagons were drawn from the mud and reloaded, and at six in the evening the four trains pulled out for Des Moines. Louis and Judy Plamondon entertained Topeka relatives and friends at Omaha. Mr. McCracken, father of Samuel McCracken, contracting agent, visited the show at Kansas City. Oddetta, Benton and Green have joined for concert work. Chester White, of the black top staff of electricians, and Wilson Reese, superintendent of wardrobe, spent two days at the home, Ft. Dodge, Ia. . . . Charles White has joined for rube clown work on the hippodrome track in the big show.
Notes from Sun Brothers' Side Show, D. Lano, manager. My business this year is ahead of any previous year. So far our banner day at Richwood, W. Va., netted over $___ side show receipts, exclusive of the annex. Big show gave three performances that day. Following is complete bonafide roster: Mlle. Lano, snakes . . . Lizette, mind reader; Josephine Brown, Circassian; Ward Sisters, Mexican impalement act; Swartz, magician; Ajax, Greek Hercules; Deans, glass blowers; for cages small animals . . . the Hindoo broom mystery and Hindoo musicians are a big feature.
Bonheur Bros.' Show notes. The show during the week commencing July 13, with the exception of the first day, which was a "rain out," has been the best of the season so far. The stock is now working well under the new trainers. The company is entirely new throughout, and the show is running smoothly, although the weather is actually the sultriest that could be endured. Eternal viligance is the price of success, and there is no exception to this rule here. Howard Bonheur is up from 5 a.m. till 2 a.m., working as hard as any of the working force. It has been the hardest year to keep a full working force in the history of the show, and there has been more trouble experienced with disorganizers. Wm. H. Tibbils has taken charge of the advance, with Lew Brooks, and A. G. Bonheur takes the trained stock back with the show. . . .
Notes from the Teets Bros.' Show. We are playing to banner business through Virginia, turning them away three days last week at ___, Gladeville and Norton. The latter town was our banner day for the big show, the side show and the concert. We had as opposition the Lugi Wagon Show. We are having fine weather among the Virginia hills. J. Teets paid a flying visit to his home at Lebanon last week. Floyd Trover spent July 4 at Beaver Falls, Pa., his home. Roster: J. P. and J. W. Teets, owners; Floyd Trover, manager; Mrs. N. Teets, treasurer; John and Lillie Teets, aerialists; ___, head balancer; Trover Bros., bars and grotesques; the Armstrong Family, five in number, aerialists; Frank Jones, clown and acrobat; Dan Lester, clown; Armstrong Sisters, trapeze and rings; Teets Bros.' trained ponies, dogs and monkeys; Jess and Gertie Brown, concert and side show. Frank Morris and S. Trover joined the advance at Norton, Va.
Notes from Walter L. Main's Circus. We have been meeting with a warm reception throughout New England, at the hands of our many friends, in some places turning them away. . . . The Oriskany, Five Armstrongs, Rose Dockrill, Olga Reed, Elliott Troupe and the Three Fortune Brothers all come in for their share of applause. The new people who have recently joined the circus are: the Six Glinserettes, acrobats; Mr. and Mrs. George Holland, bare back riders, and Joe Cousin and wife. Harry Clark continues to do good work in comedy, and is ably assisted by a dozen or mroe exponents. Concert is taking big, while the side show, with Wild Rose as the chief attraction, is doing good business. Many of the men have been taken into the Eagles, at Holyoke, Mass., July 17. "Pete" G. Bell, Archie Royer, Bert Fortune, Frank ___, Frank Bowen and Tom Brown were made members of aerie 400, of that city, and at Springfield, the following day . . . James Conley, Howard Deetz, William ___, Albert Bennett, James Jordan, Lloyd Gwynet, Sam Cohen, Charles S. Cook, Reginald Moors, Thomas V. McIntire, Alexander Southerland, Charles Pfeiffer, Charles Mitchell, Charles Gowdy, ___, Myron Baker, Henry Bell, Kelter Moreland, Arthur Jarvis, Harry ___, Richard Jones, William F. Parker, William ___, Walter Wiseman, John Dalye and Samuel Bender were nested in aerie 118, of Springfield. The credit for such a large class is due to Harry Clark, who is an enthusiastic Eagle worker.
Frank Wortinger, baritone, and Jan Brickner, cornet, have joined the Great Melbourne Shows for the rest of the season.
Bonheur Bros.' Show notes. At Burr Oak the night show opened to a good attendance, in spite of a storm approaching from the Northwest, which had been brewing for several hours after a day of sultry heat. The performance was cut short by the high wind that preceeded a heavy rain of short duration. The announcement to the audience that the storm was nearing the danger line cleared the tent just in time, and the headwind dashed the top to the ground in an instant, breaking one of the centre poles in two, and tearing a long rent in the top of the tent, but no injury was sustained to the property and no one was hurt. Mrs. Wm. H. Tibbits joined the show at Burr Oak. Mr. Tibbits, her husband, is in charge of the advance. Lew Brooks, of the advance, who has been sick, is better. A. G. Bonheur is with the show, helping his brother with trained stock. The show is doing as fine a business as usual. At Lebanon Harvey Hamilton, a young Kentuckian, who joined the show at Herrington, Kan., suddenly disappeard while the concert was going on. Shots were heard down along the railroad tracks, Northast of Lebanon, about the time he was supposed to have gone away. The authorities were notified next morning and the officers of Lebanon are searching the tall weeds in the direction whence the shots were heard. Hamilton left his satchel of clothes and salary due him, and no one about the show can account for his sudden disappearance, as he was well liked by all the members of the company, and was a good, steady young man.
Notes from the Great Wallace Williams Shows. The complete roster of this show is: Wallace Williams, owner; Arthur Jerome, equestrian director; ?. Edwards, in charge of concert; Geo. Stokes, boss canvas and chandelier man, with four assistants; Arthur ___, chef, with one assistant; Jack McKay, properties, with one assistant. We have one of the neatest band wagons on the road. . . . Everything is brand new. Luke Williams is leader of the band and orchestra, with the following people: ___, A. Kendell, Roland Williams, Herbert Williams, Chas. Adams, J. J. Marks, Chas. Mayengo. Our band and parade is a feature with the show. The following is the roster of the performers: A. Jerome, trapezist; V. Edwards, singling clown; ___ Jerome, soubrette; Al. Leonhart, clown and juggler; Chas. McCoy, slack wire and juggler; Everett McCoy, on the tight wire; Rice and Williams, in a musical act. . . .
New York Clipper, August 8, 1903, p. 556. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Sam Dock's Keystone Shows. We are now in our fifteenth week, and have played to uniformly good business since our opening. Since entering the State of Pennsylvania houses have been big, especially in last season's town. At Womeisdorf, Pa., July 25, we gave a special performance to the inmates of the Orphans' Home. Roster: Sam Dock, proprietor and manger; Sadie Dock, treasurer; Ammon Musselman, superintendent; Billy Shouch, in charge of reserved seat and concert tickets; Jas. Marks, boss canvas man; Frank Clark, in charge of stock; Shirl Wright, chef. Performers: Ammon Musselman, Harry Moyer, Curvin Zeck, Mastine and Moyer, Sadie Dock, Clara Dock, and Sam Dock's troupe of trained ponies, mules, dogs and donkeys. Prof. Weaver's Cornet Band of seven pieces furnish the music. Concert: Musselman and Dock, Strother Gray, and the Weaver Bros. (John, Mack and Frank). W. Morrow Tait and Raymond Bell were recent visitors, and Wm. F. Homan, an old showman, spent the day with us at Womeisdorf. We will make a long season, closing in Virginia late in November.
Wills and Hassan, equilibrists, are playing their return engagement at the Gran Circo Orrin, Mexico, and will return to the States in January, 1904.
Notes from Canada Frank's Railway Shows, F. M. Myers, manager. We are now carrying one eating and sleeping car, also one flat car, and 80ft. round top, with 50ft. middle. Roster: Lamont Bros., double traps and tumbling; Alberto, contortionist and rings; Great Martino, balancing, traps, slack wire and fire baton; Bert Myers, comedy bars and clown; F. M. Myers, with his troupe of dogs and ventriloquism; Mandy Myers, serpentine dancing and singing, and Prof. Harry Smith, with a band of ten pieces. Shorty Thomas is boss canvas man, with eight assistants.
Notes from the Walter L. Main Show. At Cambridge, N.Y., on July 28, occurred the marriage of our popular equestrienne, Olga Reed, and Dare Devil Cyclo (Nick Howard). The popularity of both made the marriage one that will be long remembered by the employees of the Main Circus. Our dressmakers and Col. Hugh Harrison, our popular diamond dealer, are kept busy, and now the new route card is out, stating we are on Long Island week of Aug. 24. The colonel is getting all kinds of orders for diamonds and different fancy jewelry. Everyone is well and happy. The show is doing such a big business it brings a pleasant smile and happiness to everybody.
Harry W. Semon wires from Janesville, Wis., under date of Aug. 2, as follows: "Luella Forepaugh-Fish Wild West Show was bought at receiver's sale here, Saturday, by Erie Lithograph Co., who have leased same to John A. Barton. Show reopens Appleton, Wis, Aug. 4, under my management."
New York Clipper, August 15, 1903, p. 583. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Wreck of the Great Wallace Circus. Early on the morning of Aug. 7 the most disastrous circus wreck on record occurred at Durand, Mich., when the second section of the Wallace Brothers's Big Circus crashed into the first in the Grand Trunk Railway yards at that place, killing twenty-three persons outright, and injuring more than a score of others, some of whom have since died. After the exhibition at Charlotte, night of 6, the two trains left for Lapeer over the Grand Trunk road, the second section leaving a half hour after the first. At 3:45 o'clock the first section pulled into the west end of the Grand Trunk yards. Engineer ___, who was running the engine of the rear train, says he saw the red danger signal ahead and applied the air brake, but to his horror, it refused to work. He reversed his engine, but the momentum of the heavy train behind was too great, and with a crash that aroused all of the town near the yards the two trains met. Three cars of the stationary first section were telescoped and the engine and five cars were demolished. The rear of the first section was a caboose, in which the trainmen were sleeping, and the next two were filled with sleeping circus employees. The greatest loss of life was in the caboose. One of the wrecked cars of the second section was occupied by five elephants and several camels. One of the elephants and two camels were killed. The other animals and their trainer escaped. With the exception of this car, none of the menagerie was wrecked, the other demolished cars containing canvas or wagons. As soon as they recovered from the first shock the circus men rushed among the cages, quieting the beasts that were excited. Many feared at first that some of the menagerie had escaped, as ome of the animals could be heard crying. The fire whistle was immediately sounded and the whole town was aroused. The rescuers could see the unfortunates through the tangled wreckage and went earnestly to work to extricate them, and a wrecking crew was on the scene in a very few minutes, bringing up tools and equipment in plenty. All the physicians and trained nurses in town were sent for, and those in nearby places were also rushed to the scene. The Hotel Richelieu was converted into a temporary hospital, and scores of volunteers with stretchers were in readiness to carry the injured there as fast as the rescuers could extricate them. The dead, many of them so terribly mangled that identification seemed impossible, were carefully laid on the ground a short distance from the scene. By 6 o'clock a corps of twelve physicians were operating on the injured and dressing their wounds in the temporary hospital. Four of the injured died at the hospital before 8:30 o'clock. When the wrecking train crews had finished pulling to pieces the broken cars seventeen dead men (a majority of whom were killed while asleep) were lying on the grass awaiting removal to the Morgue. The circus performers were on the rear of the second section, and escaped injury. The list of the dead includes: Andrew Howland, A. W. Large, Lafe Larson, John Leary, James McCarthy, W. J. McCoy, John Purcell, Robert Rice, Charles Sands, George Smith, Harry St. Clair, G. Thomas, Frank Thorp,Joe Wilson and Edward York, besides seven unindentified. The list of injured includes: ___ Abrams, Joe Anderson, __ Barker, George Bartley, Stephen Bennett, Joseph Benton, John Collins, James Coffeimire, W. L. Cone, E. J. Connolly, N. Cadwalader, George Clough, James Foley, ___ Frisbie, John ___, J. King, J. W. Koons, J. J. ___, Burt McGrath, Joseph Munks, Marshall Nellis, Joseph Patterson, W. H. Rose, J. R. Stewart, Henry Soulklin, G. W. Terry and Frank Tilley. None of the crews of either train was hurt, the firemen and engineers jumping when they saw a collision was inevitable. The shows roster includes: the Dellameades, Leon Moore, the Livingstones, Okabe Sachl, Mme. Herkenrath, Herr Herkenrath, Prof. Sunlin, ___ Kawara, the Naveros, Mlle. Norad, French, the Marion Zouaves, the Herras Family, the Stirk Family, Takecawa's Japanese troupe, Harry Lambkins, Owen ___, the Earle Sisters, ___, Emma Donovan, Minnie Pierce, the Flying Alberst, Apollo, Nelson, ___, Blanche Reed, Minne Sweeney, Mme.Marantelle, Allie Jackson, Belle Clarke, ___, Orrin Hollis, William Henchey and Harry Higgins.
Notes from Teets Bros.' Palmetto Shows. The show has been in the mountains of Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia. Good business has been the rule. In a town where we showed recently negroes are not allowed to work, consequently our workingmen, which are all colored, went straight through. Jake Teets was presented by his wife, on July 27, with a bouncing baby girl, and Jake ordered the usual banquet; everything good to eat, with liquids for an encore. Jake is routing the show, and the bridle and hog paths he passes up are very few. Our general manager, Floyd Trover, is doing his share, and under his dictation things run smoothly. Richard Doyle joined __, to take charge of the stands.
Notes from A. H. Reed's Shows. We are now touring Maryland and turning them away at every performance. We are having fine weather. A. H. Reed made a flying trip to Washington last week. Roster: A. H. Reed, proprietor and manager; Mrs. Viola Reed, treasurer; Wm. Waldo, aerialist; A. Gillick, clown; Wm. Ketrow, slack wore; Mrs. Maude Ketrow, tight wire; Siedell and Collins, acrobats; Mrs. Viola Reed, with her trained ponies and dogs; Lena Hays, Spanish webs and single traps; and Robison and Gates, double traps. J. H. Hays and wife have the privilege with show. Band: ___ Buckley, leader; ___ Haley, ___ Robinson, R. Tarkington, A. Jones, Ray Hickey, Max Peters and Earnest Guenther, Joe ___ and J. D. Griffith. C. W. Duncan, boss canvsman, with twenty assistants; A. Lake, boss hostler, with twelve assistants.
Sautelle notes. The second section of Sig. Sautelle's Circus train, including some of the flats and all of the Pullman sleepers, narrowly escaped being wrecked at an early hour Tuesday morning, Aug. 4. At ___ Junction, a few miles from Manchester, N.H., the load proved too heavy for the two locomotives, and the conductor in charge cut the train into a third section. The first half of the train was taken up the grade, and upon returning for the rest of the cars two engines crashed into the train with such force as to throw nearly every occupant of the sleepers from their berths. Mrs. Frank A. Robbins, wife of the general manager Robbins, received a painful cut in the head, and Harry Howman was cut over the left eye. Two of the dens were damaged more or less, and the other vehicles were forced from their "chucks." That no one was killed or even seriously injured was not fault of the railroad men in charge of the train, as they left the cars standing on a curve without a flagman or a light of any kind. The shows are now wending their way through the New Hampshire hills en route for Vermont. . . . Clarence Hibbard is now in full charge of all the canvas with the shows. Sig. Sautelle and wife are planning an extensive pleasure trip at the close of the current season. Their outing will include a visit to all the principal European cities and other points of interest. James W. Shipman, our superintendent, has made all arrangements to open his "Tom" show season ten days after the circus year is over. He will carry two bands, a female drum corps, eight ponies, six dogs and thirty-four people.
New York Clipper, August 22, 1903, pp. 607, 610. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Waldo & Co.'s Shows. After playing the lots and suburban towns at Chicago, we are reorganizing for a Southern trip, and expect to be out until Jan. 1. Our season thus far has been satisfactory, and we are looking forward to our trip to the sunny South with a great deal of pleasure. We have had quite a number of visitors during out stay in Chicago, and one and all unite in pronouncing it the neatest and cleanest little show that has ever played there. The roster, a number of whom are re-engaged for the Fall and Winter, is as follows: Geo. and Elinore Cole, trapezists, wire walkers and flying rings; Mlle. Bonnie and Sister, Prof. Meehan's school of educated dogs, Dan Rice's donkey and pig circus, Levering Bros., cycle whirl riders; La Coma Bros., acrobats and hoop rollers; Harry La Pearl, knockabout and talking clown; Soucrant Family, buggy wheel riders and acrobats; Smith Family, musical act and bell ringers; Radcliffe and Belmont, fancy rifle shooters; John Smith, lightning crayon act; Sam McFlinn, equestrian director; Jas. Watson, boss canvas man with ten assistants; Chas. Holmes, boss hostler; Geo. Cole, manager side show; "Doc" Richardson, boss property man, with five men; R. J. Mercer, advance agent; Harry ___, lithographer; Jim Kendal, boss bill poster, with three assistants.
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Golden Mascot Shows. For the past two weeks business has been the best ever yet enjoyed by the Golden Mascot Shows. The following new people have joined: Lewis ___, Charles Kellemeyer, Frank Cook, Dick Dilts, Irwin Easter, Jimmie Reed, Bob Allen, Dell Taylor and Mike Allen. Bob Ward clowns the pony act, and on his first appearance made an instantaneous success. Amos G. Bonheur has wonderful control of his prize troupe of midget ponies. They are learning new acts, in addition to their military drills, marched and counter marches. ___, the little colt born in the flood, is learning a little clown act that captivates the children. This little animal is only twenty inches high, and does a hind foot act and an imitation of a bucking broncho with a monkey rider. ____, "the second," who has replaced his sire, deceased last season, is doing the most incredible high leaps, going two feet higher than old ___ was ever able to do. The monkeys all have new suits and look the part of little men of the fairy tales in their riding acts on the backs of miniature horses. The show is "going stronger" than at any previous time, and is a money maker. Maude Tibbils is doing a beautiful sunbeam dance in the concert. Wm. H. Tibbils and Lew Brooks, with their hustling aids, are doing some good work in advance. Prof. Meehan, of Chicago, is training an additional troupe of dogs for the show.
Byron L. Hubbard writes: "I have sold my Wild West Show to L. B. Hudson and G. T. Parsons, both members of my staff, who will close the show Sept. 5, and then take it over a circuit of fairs as a free attraction. Next season (1904) I will put out a complete three ring circus, wild west, museum and menagerie, about a forty car show.
Arthur Burson is with the Hobson Circus, in the Indian Territory.
Notes from Teets Bros. R. R. Shows. The show is doing good business through the mountains of North Carolina. We are having no opposition, and the weather is fine. We have not lost a show nor had a blown down this season. We have added another team of big work horses. Everybody is well and enjoying the fine mountain scenery.
Barnum & Bailey notes. . . . After an illness extending over half the season, J. T. McCaddon again took the reins of management in his hands on Aug. 7, in Binghampton. The fact that he has resumed the active management of the Barnum & Bailey Show will be of general interest to the circus world, as few men are better known or have a broader knowledge of the true principles of the circus business than he. Centeral New York is in a very prosperous condition, as evidenced by the immense audiences which greeting the show during the past week in Oswego, Norwich, Binghamton, Cortland and Syracuse.
The Great Marinellas, with the John Robinson Shows, write that duing a cyclone at Eldorado, Ill., their silver arch, on which they do their double ring act, was broken to pieces, also Mr. Marinella's pedestal. They were the only losers with the show. Not one top remained up. The side show, menagerie, horse tents, dressing rooms and the big top and cook tent were blown down. The cyclone lasted half an hour.
Pan-American Show notes. After traversing nearly 6,000 miles in the Canadian provinces of Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Cape Bretan Island and Nova Scotia, the show crossed the St. Mary's River at Sault Ste. Marie into the United States on Aug. 7, showing at Sault Ste. Marie on that day, to immense business. After the evening performance the Eagles with the show, and nine candidates for wings, marched to the Eagles' lodge rooms to the music of the Pan-American Band. There the Soo Eagles had all preparations ready for initiating and the following were made Eagles: Gordon Orton, Doc Hatch, Lon Newman, Carl Lemen, Ed. Baldwin, Frank Cereno, Doc ___, Ed. Dilger and Bob Harwick. A social session followed, during which refreshments were served, and Ed. Lemon's Band furnished some excellent selections. The merry making was interrupted by a message saying the train was loaded and waiting for the Eagles. The aerie then adjourned, and the Soo Eagles, their visitors and the band marched in double file to the depot. The Soo Eagles made the stay of the Pan-American Eagles a very pleasant one, which will not be soon forgotten. Other Eagles with the show are: Bert Chipman, Wm. Palmer, Fred Morrison, Bert Bell, J. S. Leon, Fred De Ivey, Chas. Philsen, Harry Walker, Fred Leslie, Ed. Lewis, C. D. Odom, Ralph Crossett, Henry ___, L. C. Zelleno, Ed. Wiley and Frost Lemes.
Sie Hassan Ben Ali informs us that he will manage two hundred natives of different Oriental tribes, at Luna Park, Coney Island, next year. Messrs. Thompson & Dundy have engaged him to visit important cities and town in Africa and Asia where novelties and attractions may be obtained. Sie Hassan Ben Ali will sail for the Orient on Dec. 1.
The following account of the death, by accident, of Joe Sergeant, employed with the M. L. Clark Shows, comes from Paddy Smith: "At Hillsboro, Mo., on the night of Aug. 8, while the show was exhibiting there, Joe Sergeant and Bill Kellogg were selling the tickets outside of the menagerie, when a fierce wind storm came. They rushed inside to close cages and protect the show as much as possible, when suddenly the tent went up, turing the big organ wagon over upon them, pinning them both to the ground. It was fully twenty minutes before their groans were heard above the roar of the storm, and when extricated they were apparently dead. Upon examination Kellogg had a badly fractured arm, and contusions on back and abdomen, but his woulds are not dangerous. Joe Sergeant's injuries were inward, and he lived only twelve hours. He was liked by everyone that knew him, and had a host of friends. Although we know that he was from Chicago, still we never learned anything about his people. We buried him in the little cemetery at Hillsboro, and any of his relatives who wish to inquire about his death can write to Hugh R. Lloyd, Hillsboro, Mo."
New York Clipper, August 29, 1903, p. 633. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
J. C. Banks writes: "Sig. Sautelle has recently increased his real estate holdings by the purchase of two Cortland County, New York, farms. He now owns nine farms, each of which is under excellent cultivation. At present, the Sautelle railroad shows are in Vermont, and the circus, concert, side show and Oriental theatre are doing capacity business almost daily. The managerie nursery inmates were increased in numberb in Roxbury, Vt., when a large lioness gave birth to four cubs. The animal exhibits will be added to during the next few days, as Mr. Sautelle has placed a large order. Dick Holman is breaking a bull terrier for a hippodrome act. A derailed locomotive in the freight yards at Barre prevented the placing of our train until late at night, with the result that we were not loaded until the wee small hours Saturday morning, and it was late in the forenoon ere we reached Morrisville. There is considerable rivalry between the drivers of the chariot teams, and as a natural consequence, the horses are put to their topmost speed in each race. The teams are well matched, and many a dollar is wagered around the dressing room at each performance. Seven handsome and shapely women have been engaged for an all new feature act in our side show."
Notes from Buffalo Bill's Wild West. On June 7, at Birmingham, Eng., a female child was born to Mr. and Mrs. Chief Standing Bear, and manager of privileges Lew Graham has the mother and child now on exhibition in the side show. On June 16, Prof. Griffin, lecturer and stage manager in the annex, was presented with a gold medal by his fellow employees, the occasion being his forty-fourth birthday. Col. Cody's jewels were stolen on June 17, but were recovered 20, and the culprit sentenced to six months at hard labor. Jacob Posey passed his fortieth birthday June 17, and received a handsome silver mounted cane from the grooms. We celebrated Independence Day at Aberdare, South Wales, and our caterer, D. Ballard, gave us as fine a dinner as was ever served under the white tents. The decorations were very profuse, the whole show being a mass of bunting. L. E. Decker left us July 4, to take charge of Col. Cody's extensive interests at Cody, Wyoming. At Bristol, Eng., July 23, Isadore Gonzales, a Mexican rough rider, was instantly killed by his horse falling on him. He was buried at Bristol, 25. We showed with the George Sanger aggregation at Taunton, Aug. 3. Your correspondent spent a very pleasant afternoon with the genial old veteran, 2. One of the Cuban riders had one of his legs broken at Southampton, 7, and is now in the hospital there, pending recovery. Everything is running smoothly, thanks to general manager Fred Hutchinson. Health of the company good, and business at the top notch. What more can we ask.
Notes from the John Robinson Shows. We experienced a "blow down" at Eldorado, Ill., Aug. 5, at 5 p.m., after a great audience had left the afternoon exhibition. The visit of this cyclonic tornado was short, but it carried away acres of tents, blowing them into ribbons, and the guy lines snapped like twine. Everything went into the air; horse stables, side shows, annexes, restaurants, the two cook tents, the twelve centre pole menagerie, also the three hundred and twenty foot big top,and dressing rooms. Fortunately, no one was injured. We lost the night show, but gave two exhibitions next day, at our following stand, just as if nothing unusual had happened, as we carry a car load of canvas.
The Aerial Arnolds, Chas. and Weltha, write that they canceled with Colored Jack's Wild West and joined Glasscock's Combined Circus and Menagerie, en route through New Mexico.
Notes from the Original Whitney Family One Ring Circus. We are in our fifteenth week of good business. Very few changes have been made, and none for the worse. We have been in a number of bad storms, only one doing any damage, and that one took our horse tent with it; but our big top being down no damage was done to that. Mrs. Geo. L. Whitney, "mother of the show," has gone home to headquarters for a few weeks rest, and then, upon her return, her similing face will be greeted by all. Manager Whitney has added a new set of uniforms (red, trimmed with black), which make a great improvement. The "ghost" still walks, and the Old Reliable finds its way to us every Friday. Roster: C. A. Whitney, manager; A. V. Whitney, owner; L. P. Whitney, band master; Mrs. W. W. Walbourn, privileges; W. W. Walbourn, general agent; Chas. Keifer, Frank Pemisin, Jack Phillips, Chas. Bowman, Chas. Klise, Mack and Lester, Theo Peasley [Feasley?], Dell Hicker, Prof. Blackly and his trained dogs, John S. Peack, bill poster; R. D. Koons, lithographer; Frank Adams, boss canvas man, with six assistants; ___, Walter ___, Fred Norton, Al. Gorman, Chas. Norton, Clarence Alfords, boss property man, and two assistants; John ___, master of transportation; Bert Farmer and Sheldon Newberry.
Notes from the Great Barlow Show. The show has done the best business in its history. Since the discarding of the supposed "Jonah" business has been absolutely wonderful. Aug. 17, at Sherodsville, O., the receipts were the highest of any season. Monkeys, dogs, ponies, goats and horses are being added each week for 1904.
Geo. W. Hussey, ventriloquist and comedian, is on his sixteenth week with the Ringling Bros. Shows, which is en route to California.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Show. Manager James A. Morrow, of the sideshow, was presented with a beautiful gold watch Aug. 15, by the employees, as a token of their esteem and his good fellowship. The presentation speech was made by Chas. Hillert. Mr. Morrow was so overcome that it was fully ten minutes before he could respond. He stated that he tried to do justice to his employers in acting for them, and also to maintain the respect of those under his management.
Gus Fairbanks, manager of Miles Orton's Show, was in New York last week. He states that the Orton Show has had a continuous season since Dec. 4, 1902, which has been very prosperous. Three new cars will be added. The show will be on the road the year around.
Barnum & Bailey notes. Twenty-five people of the show paid tribute to the memorty of "Doc" Colvin, at Geneva, N.Y., Aug. 13. They paid a visit to his grave and left three beautiful floral pieces. George O. Starr left Aug. __, for New York, whence he sails for London 22. Mr. Starr joined the show in Scranton, Pa., on May 24, and has been with us since then, assisting Mr. Bailey in the management. . . . Mr. and Mrs. James A. Bailey left for Michigan, where, it is hoped, Mrs. Bailey's health will be benefitted. Jos. B. Harper entertained his father, Dr. W. F. Harper, and brother, Russell, of New York City, during our two days' stay in Rochester. . . . We had a slight wreck in the Buffalo yards on Tuesday evening, and two of our flats were badly damaged.
New York Clipper, September 5, 1903, p. 657. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Eddie Lamont, musical expert, is in his sixteenth week with Sun Bros.' Circus, and has signed for the Southern tour with that show.
Notes from Buffalo Bill's Wild West, touring Great Britain. C. C. Murphy, who represents the Pinkerton Detective Agency with the Wild West, has a quide acquaintance with the police officials over here, he having occupied the same position with Barnum & Bailey. He is not troubled with traveling or local thieves, as they know the show is protected. "Butch" Widmeyer, Jake Posey's assistant, who was kicked in the head by a horse at Bristol, and who was left in the hospital at that place, has fully recovered, and returned to his duties at Taunton, Aug. _. Little Alexandria-Pearl-Olive-Birmingham-England-Octavia-Standing Bear, the papoose born at Birmingham, was left at Salisbury, _, with her mother, with an attack of measles. Jim Mack and Charlie Mitchell, of pugilistic fame, with their families, were recent visiitors to the Wild West. We have not missed a performance or had a late opening this season, which speaks well for the working force of the show. Jake Posey is master of stock, with Butch Widmeyer assistant. Jake Platt, superintendent of canvas . . . At Brighton, 13,14, 15, our lot was on Race Hill, overlooking the English Channel. A fierce storm raged 14 and 15, nothwithstanding which we never missed a show. We loaded at Hove stateion, four and a half miles distant, with two miles up hill, and the last section was ready to depart at 2:30 a.m. Lew Graham was at London 16, 17.
Notes from Ringling Bros.' World's Greatest Shows. The big show has one of the oldest active drivers in existence. His name is Haley, and at seventy-four years of age he handles a six horse team as well as any of the younger men. Mr. Haley's birthday last week was appropriately celebrated by his brother drivers. Mr. Haley has been with tented shows for a period of thirty-five years, and before his initial trouping year, he drove stage through Montana, Utah, Oregon and the State of Washington. A wee pony colt, the eighth foaled since the present season opened, made his appearance at Spokane. He has been named in honor of Thomas Buckley, the auditor of the big show. The christening took place at Seattle. . . . At Everett, Wash., the last section of the circus train pulled up at the foot of a wide street leading up to a hill into the business portion of the city. The performers alighted and marched up the incline in a body. The sight of so many people together caused one resident to remark: "I'll never doubt the work of the Ringlings; they have a regular army with them." The Ringlings are responsible for an innovation in the circus business. On dark days, when the interior of the big top is a bit hazy, they have the electric lights switched on, and the bright, clear glow enables everyone to see from one end of the big tent to the other. This innovation is greatly appreciated, and several complimentary newspaper stories have been written concerning it. The number of menageries babies were increased in Whatcom, Wash., by the advent of three fuzzy little Bengal tiger cubs. The cubs are healthy, and menagerie superintendent George Jinks is confident of raising them. At Whatcom, Wash., the Pullman sleepers were placed on a track on the edge of the harbor, and the children of the show had great sport fishing. . . .
New York Clipper, September 12, 1903, pp. 670, 671, 676. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Musical Reeds report meeting with success with the Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Shows, now in their twenty-second week, and enjoying good health.
Notes from the Great Barlow Show. We closed our season Sept. _, as Mr. Barlow has secured an engagement at a school, which opens Sept. 14. The show has done a big business, and Mr. Barlow will turn his attention to training dogs, ponies, goats and monkeys, and preparing same for our opening in 1904. The show will be completely overhauled for 1904 and will be repainted and have new canvas.
Notes from Frisbee Bros.' R. R. Shows. We closed a very successful season of seventeen weeks at Tama, Ia., Aug. 31. The season opened at Jackson, Mich., May 2, and big business has been the rule the entire season. The roster: Robbins and Childers, double traps and revolving ladder; Copeland, Valley and Copeland, bars and casting; ___, clown juggler; Mons. Robers, acrobatic clown and mule hurdle; Marvelous Rauf, wire performer; and Prof. A. J. Parks' troupe of trained dogs, twelve in number. Our side show was under the management of Gus Wondry. The free attraction was the Great Don ___, high wire. Chas. Cole, leader of band, with the following musicians: Geo. Rochenback, Henry Schmidt, Chas. Branford, Harry Swartz, John Cole, Ray Curtis, Chas. Gerlach, Otto Smith, Jess Seavey, Claude Rogers, A. J. ___, and Gus Petersen. The closing night the entire company was banqueted by Mrs. J. K. Frisbee. An elaborate bill of fare was served, and everybody enjoyed a good time. The Old Reliable and the "man in white" were two welcome visitors that appeared every week.
Sig. Sautelle's New Big Railroad Show notes. The name of Chatham, N.Y., has been erased from the governor's list of "dead ones" since our visit to the town the other day, in the wake of Hargraves Circus. We were there the big day of the fair, and while the afternoon house was small, that of the evening was highly satisfactory; in fact, so much so, that much abused Chatham will henceforth be included among Mr. Sautelle's real live ones. Ed. Post, a former boss hostler with these shows, came on for a day's visit there and was quite badly injured during the parade. He was driving the eight horse band wagon team, and in turning a corner fell from the high seat to the ground, and before the horses could be halted, one of the front wheels passed over his left leg and arm. No bones were broken, and aside from a few minor bruises, he was unhurt. A derailed truck on one of the flat cars delayed our departure from Chatham until nearly 5 a.m., causing us to arrive several hours late in Millerton, where our parade did not leave the lot until after 12 o'clock noon. Matinee business was fair, and in the evening we all but packed them in. Gil Robinson, who recently returned from a trip abroad, was a visitor 4. Our lion cubs, whelped Aug. 12, are now on exhibition, and attract much attention. In Millerton, many of the "troupers" were royally entertained by Harry Clark, formerly with the Wilbur Comedy Co., but now a jolly, jovial landlord. We are now headed for the Eastern shore of Maryland, a favorite grazing ground for Mr. Sautelle and his shows. Blanche Hilliard has closed owing to illness. The Ellets and the Three Shorties have recently joined the big show corps of performers. Side show manager Morrow thinks that his bevy of beauties will compare most favorably with any other prize list.
Barnum & Bailey notes. Two special cars were chartered to take the large number of friends of Merritt T. Young, formerly secretary and treasurer of the Barnum & Bailey Show, to the Oakland Cemetery, in Sandusky, O., where Mr. Young's remains are interred. Five beautiful floral offerings were left on his grave, and a short service held in his memory. . . . On top of our wreck on the run into Newcastle came two days which, in the memory of the oldest circus men, were the worst ever as far as weather was concerned. In Newcastle, from six in the evening until daylight, the rain fell in torrents, making the lot and streets veritable lakes. Over four inches of rain fell, causing floods and washouts throughout Eastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. However, we managed to reach Youngstown in time to give two shows, although the rain fell continuously throughout the day. Mr. Bailey is in New York. Among our visitors are Mrs. J. T. McCaddon and two sons (Joseph and Stanley), of Pelham Manor, N.Y., and Barney Oldfield, of Rochester, N.Y. Messrs. Brown and McFarlane, of the Philadelphia Saturday Evening Post, left the show Sept. 1, after two weeks of circus life. They made many friends, who will wait with interest the results of their visit.
Notes from Ringling Brothers' World's Greatest Shows. The show has entered upon its California tour and prospects for a record breaking business were never better. The cities already visited have been productive of immense business, Redding, Marysville, Sacramento, Santa Rosa, Napa and Oakland being especially good. From 7 to __, inclusive, the big show will delight thousands in San Francisco, and will then tour the Southern portion of the state. Business in Oregon has been big every day. At Portland the doors were closed long before eight o'clock, and when the big show stared there were fully two thousand people seated on straw around the immense hippodrome track. Money was offered those who failed to secure seats in the reserved or the blue sections, but not one took advantage of the offer. "We don't want our money back," said one man, speaking for the crowd, "We want to see the show and we are willing to sit right here on the ground." Charles Ringling, accompanied by his wife and two children, left the show at Portland to return to Baraboo in order to close up several important business deals. He will return during the California tour. A wee baby Ourang-Otang, a species decidedly rare in the United States, was picked up at Portland from the captain of a vessel direct from ports on the coast of Borneo. He was brought to the ticket wagon swathed in soft blankets and was promptly purchased and placed in the sideshow. Mlle. Lotina, the snake enchangress, made the new comer a full outfit of baby clothes, and in the morning, after he has had his bath and breakfast of bananas, chicken, rice and tea, he is dressed in a gown of baby blue silk and placed on exhibition in a glass case. The baby has been christened "Mr. Dooley." He is a great attraction, and evey possible effort will be made to raise him. Mr. and Mrs. Alf. Ringling, with Master Richard, came on the show at Portland. At the close of the two days' engagement they left for San Francisco, accompanied by James Jay Brady, special press agent, and Mrs. Brady. The party made the trip from Portland to San Francisco in John Ringling's new private car, Wisconsin. The Wisconsin is a beautiful car, equipped with all modern conveniences. Mr. Ringling had the interior decorations done in accordance with ideas of his own. Harry Noyes has been added to the side show ticket selling staff. George Harrison, who left the show in Bloomington, in order to take a course of baths for rheumatism, returned to Portland, and is again selling reserved seat tickets. New additions to the side show band include: I. R. Haynes, cornet,and Louis M. Voelker, drums. Will Horton, of the advance staff, and "Happy Jack" Snelling, boss canvas man, went ahead to San Francisco to arrange for the construction of a grand stand and boxes. The show this season will exhibit in San Francisco on a new lot in the heart of the business portion of the city.
Notes from Gollmar Bros.' Shows. Business the past week was remarkably large. On three occasions extra seats were provided for the accommodation of the large crowds, and even then hundreds were obliged to sit around the ring and stage in such close proximity that some of the features on the program had to be omitted. This isn't an unusual occurrence, as it has happened several times this season. The town of Bonesteel is in its infancy, and we ar the first circus to make the town. Today (Sunday) the show found it alive with people. The lot is fairly surrounded with Indian tepees and Sioux Indians. The sight carries us back to our youthful dime novel days, when we so longed to do battle with the red man of the plains. On Friday, Aug. 21, John Mara received a telegram announcing the death of his only child. The same day Alex Lowande received a message over the wire that his mother was at the point of death. On Saturday, Aug. 22, Frank Millard, boss property man, received a message in the same way telling him of the death of his father. Gurtie Groh and Gurtie Zellno, who were on the sick list for a few weeks, have entirely recovered, and are with us again. E. V. Hocum, equestrian, joined at Richland Center, Wis. The show now has a good number of riding acts. Both rings and stage are well supplied with numbers. While this letter is in progress the natives have erected a large tent for the purpose of pulling off a prize fight between two local pugilists.
William Todt Show notes. We are in our eighteenth week, and the show is doing nicely, making money and pleasing our partons. We are on our way South, and the show will tour the South the entire winter, closing only during the holidays. The show is exceptionally strong, and the outfit second to none. Wm. Todt, proprietor and director; Mrs. Wm. Todt, treasurer; Thomas Aiton is ahead, with two assistants, and is doing some heavy billing. Gabriel Michaels has charge of the privileges and banners, and seldom fails to have the big top decorated with "ads," from end to end. Archie Fitzpatrick has charge of the canvas, with ten men; Wm. Branson, boss property man, with two assistants, and Edw. Wallace has the cook tent, with two assistants. The acts we have are: Chas. La Bird, hand balancing act; Wm. Todt, bounding wire and head balancing trapeze; Harry Rose, singing and talking clown, also in charge of the concert; Holden, juggler, and Wm. Todt and Harry Rose, in a passing act.
Notes from Miles Orton's Circus. We are closing our sixth week in Pennsylvania. We don't turn them away, but give two shows a day and pay salaries the year around. Our roster is unchanged. Among our feature acts are: bicycle wire (carrying two children), by Norman Orton; Ivy and Clarence Orton, aerialists (ages five and seven); double traps, single traps and rings; five riding and carrying acts by the Orton Family; Jas. Brooks, balancing traps and tramp wire; Miles Orton's dogs and ponies, goats and mules; Myron Orton, principal clown, with Brooks, Lindsay and Baure. P. Harris is general agent, with five men. All told, we have one of the best one ring shows today on the road.
Notes from Howe's Great London Shows. Bert Willison, manager of the Six Australian Aerolites, was compelled to leave the show at St. Joseph, Mo., and go to Kansas City, Mo., to undergo a serious surgical operation. He will resume his position with the show as soon as the doctors pronounce him well enough to travel. The Australian Aerolites are making good, and are general favorites with everybody. The novelty of their work insures success. At the conclusion of the season they leave for England, where they have sixteen weeks booked at the principal vaudeville theatres, and expect to return in time for the tenting season next year. The shows are in Iowa, meeting with big success. Frank A. Gardiner, the genial equestrian director, is kept pretty busy getting things fixed up for his South American tour. He expects to have the finest equipped circus company that ever left America. Already several big feature acts have been signed. The show expects to leave in December.
Notes from Barnum & Bailey Show. It was with great regret that the management of the Barnum & Bailey Show accepted the resignation of George Bowles, who has in one short season with the Greatest Show on Earth earned a reputation throughout the circus world as a most valuable press agent. . . . Whiting Allen, until recently with the Buffalo Bill Show, will again join the Barnum & Bailey Show. The run from Pittsburg to Newcastle nearly proved disastrous to the fourth section of our train. As it was, two of the sleepers were badly damaged, and their contents severely shaken up. The accident was caused by a collision between two freights on another track. A truck of a coal car jumped the track and ran into the platforms of Nos. 61 and 50, raising them from their trucks. We are very thankful no lives were lost, as would have been the cse if our train had been moving. The press department entertained Ferguson, press agent of the Great Wallace Show, Aug. 26. Mme. Marantette was another visitor. Cass Andress, the son of our popular legal adjuster Chas. Andress, has been with us during the past week. . . .
Lulu Davenport, bareback equestrienne, daughter of John Davenport, was presented on her sixteenth birthday, by the ladies of the Sells & Downs' Circus, with a beautiful pair of ear rings and a birth stone ring.
J. Geo. ___, route agent for Reed's European Circus, writes: "I wish to correct the report in the papers that I was killed by lightning on Aug. 24. The facts are, while I was traveling by team from Frederick to Middletown, Md., I drove my team under a tree for shelter, while I went into a deserted blacksmith shop to escape a terrific rain and lightning storm. After the storm ceased, I returned for my team, and found that lightning had struck the tree, killed my horses and partly wrecked the buggy. Of course, it was a narrow escape, but I want my friends to know, that I am on earth enjoying the best of health, and routing my show toward its winter home."
Al. G. Barnes writes that Barnes' Animal Actors are not with the Cleveland Minstrels, as was reported, but are booked with Sig. Sautelle's Circus. Nero, the riding lion, is still the feature.
Frank and Albright are in their twentieth week with the Walter L. Main Circus.
Delavoye and Frits are with the Sells & Downs Shows this season, still the comedy feature. They state that their original spectacular singing number, introduced last season by Will Delavoye, is still and effective act, as it replaces the old time clown song.
Mrs. Clarence Norris, of Norris & Rowe's Circus, broke her foot while horseback riding at Oakland, Cal., but joined her husband at Topeka, Kan., after six weeks.
New York Clipper, September 19, 1903, pp. 710, 717. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Frank Stowell writes that he is in his twentieth week as special agent with Sig. Sautlle's New Big Railroad Shows.
The Great Melbourne Shows close the season Sept. 26, at Whittemore, Ia.
Roster of the concert of the Great Adam Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus: Jas. G. West, manger; La Carde Sisters, in songs and Spanish dances; Belle Speath, serio comic; Miss Thurston, operatic vocalist; Lovenberg Sisters, song and dance; the Cliftons, society sketch; Donahue and Fowler, German comedians; Robbs and Powell, black face comedians, in a singing and talking act, and Master Izzy Kaufman, the boy soprano.
Notes from the Whitney Family One Ring Shows. We played the Pioneer Day celebration at Kalida, O., on Sept. 5, giving a free performance in the afternoon on the public square for the committee of attractions, and exhibiting under our tents in the evening. At 7:15 the entire tope was packed to suffocation clear to the ring bank, and we were forced to close the doors. A large crowd on the outside still clamored for admittance, and wanted another performance. After a little consideration, manager Whitney decided to give two performances, and the first show started at 7:25, and fifteen minutes after the first performance was over the second one was underway, with a large attendance. We think this is a record breaker, giving two complete circus performances in one night, not an act being omitted or cut.
Great Pan-American Show notes. We will close a successful season at King City on Sept. 10. When the show arrives at the winter quarters at Dodson, Mo., it will have covered 7,454 miles since it left winter quarterss, May 8. At Tarkio, Mo., on Sept. 1, the lioness, Edna, gave birth to three cubs. One of the cubs died, but the other two are alive and doing well. On our way from Tarkio to Savannah, Mo., on the night of Sept. 1, for nearly three miles the show train was pulled through twenty-eight inches of water. In all directions there was water, and to see a train pulling through what looked like a large lake of water is a sight seldom seen. It kept two compound engines puffing to get the train through. However, the train reached its destination safely, and we were all glad to get out of the flooded district. Several of the musicians and performers have left the show during the season, but the annex is just as it started out, not an attache having left the show during the season. Following is the roster of the annex: Bert Chipman, manager; Wm. Palmer, Ed. Wiley, Jean Renzo and John McIntyre, talkers; Chas. Philson, lecturer; Zelleno, magician; Joseph Lucasie, Albino violinist; Fred Leslie, trained pigs; Mlle. Cleo, snakes and crocodiles; La Belle Marie's Oriental dancing girls; Mille Carlotta, the optic, and Paul Petrovski, demon child.
Sig. Sautelle's Railroad Show notes. By the time this notice reaches Clipper readers, the exhibits in our menagerie will have been increased by the addition of two leopards, a female elephant, and three pumas. Before the month ends there will be eight open dens, and a genuine 1903 novelty in parade. John Barton, formerly of the Forepaugh-Fish Wild West Show, was a visitor the first of last week. "The governor" has received his new dining tent, and, in the slang of the day, it's a "peach." Manager Morrow, of the side show, who will put out a colored troupe at the close of the circus season, has bought a combination car. Messrs. Brownlee and Reed, of "Uncle Tom" fame, came to see us in Warwick, and were warm in their praise of the performance and outfit. The editors of Lambertville, N.J., were unanimous in pronouncing our street display and shows the largest and finest ever seen in their town. Ralph Allen was the recipient of a handsome gold watch, a birthday gift from his parents. Boss canvasman Clarence Hibbard has his large force of men as thoroughly drilled as a prize military company, and the tops are always up in season regardless of what hour the trains arrive in town. It is now a settled fact that Mr. Sautelle will have a thirty car show next year.
Gentry Bros.' notes. Park B. Prentiss, band leader, has closed with West's Minstrels, and has signed with Gentry Bros.' Famous Trained Animal Show, No. 4, for the rest of the season, to lead the band. The show has been doing its usual large business, with the exception of a few rainy days, through Iowa.
Charles D. Hammond, who has been doing press work with Gentry Bros.' No. 4 Dog and Pony Show, closed Sept. 5, and is visiting with friends in Chicago.
Barnum & Bailey notes. The long awaited time has arrived and the "Greatest Show on Earth" is encamped at Wentworth Avenue and Thirty-fifth Street, Chicago, where it will remain until Sept. 19, when we will once more pull up stakes and continue our wanderings. . . . A burlesque yacht race between Spader Johnson and Chad. Woertz, with the other clowns forming the excursion fleet, is one of the hits of the show. Peter Sells was a visitor Sunday and Monday. J. P. Oldfield bade farewell to his many friends on Wednesday, when his vacation with the show came to an end.
Through the non-delivery of mail, or some llapses at the paymaster's end of the line last week, Tom L. Wilson, press agent of the Walter L. Main Shows, sent the gentleman who pays the "advance" (W. W. Powers) the following. It had the desired effect.
Between the Times That I Get Paid
I know not how, nor when, nor where
Come pictures all in green arrayed;
I only know the world grows old
Between the times that I get paid.
My hair turns gray, and wrinkles come
Before the welcome cash comes in;
My friends grow cold 'ere that big roll
Reminds me of "what might have been."
And contract houses "rotter" grow,
My pocketbook gets old and thin,
And sweethearts suake me (worse than all!)
Before the welcome cash comes in.
My creditors get "anxious," and
With all my nerve I grow afraid
To look the world between the eyes
Between the times that I get paid.
I marvel if the show has got
A "Jonah" with the flip-flap lunge;
If Ringling, Wallace - even "Sig." -
Has made the governor "throw the sponge?"
And thus I suffer as I go
My winding way the press to raid,
While rooting for the greatest show
Between the times that I get paid.
New York Clipper, September 26, 1903, p. 734. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Ringling Brothers's World's Greatest Shows. Monday, Sept. 14, ended the most successful circus engagement ever played in the city of San Francisco for Ringling Brothers' Shows. . . . The big top, menagerie and side show were erected on a new lot, at Market and Tenths Streets, right in the heart of the city, and in close proximity to all important car lines. The cook tents and the canvas for the ring stock and pones went up on a lot a quarter of a mile away, and still a half mile distant were the baggage stock tents. As the lot at Twelfth and Market Streets was sandy soil, huge four horse scoops were brought into play, and the loose sand carted away. Then dirt and cinders were laid, and, after this composition had been thoroughly packed and rolled, a layer of sawdust was added. The new ground was firm and solid, and was entirely free from dust. It was cleaned and sprinkled twice each day during the engagement. The last stand before San Francisco was Oakland, and, owing to the large number of cars carried by the show, it was decided to make the trip by rail, via San Jose, instead of using the ferries, which were inadequate to properly transport the trains across the bay. Although the trip by rail was ninety miles, and the bay route but six, the fourth and last section was in San Francisco at eight o'clock on Sunday, 6, and all the canvas was up by dark. As the opening date fell on Labor Day, the circus parade was postponed until Tuesday, but, nevertheless, the opening matinee on Monday was a turnaway, and the night house the same. . . . Although the attendance was enormous, the crowds were admirably handled. Twenty men, the pick of the San Francisco police force, under the direction of Captain Anderson and Lieutenant Price, were on duty at the tents from noon until midnight, and rendered valuable assistance. . . . Mrs. Dollard, of the Dollard troupe of acrobats, and Susie Adams returned to the show at San Francisco, Mrs. Dollard was taken ill at Pueblo, and Miss Adams at Ogden, and both were cared for at hospitals. Dollie Julien, who fell from her horse in the ring at Whatcom, Wash., is still hobbling about on crutches, but expects to return to her work within two weeks. Two small bones in her right ankle were broken by the fall. Delphino and Delmora, European musical team, joined at San Francisco, for work in the concert. Al. Ringling and Charles Ringling are both in Baraboo, Wis., superintending the work of extensive improvements at the winter quarters. The show is so much larger than it was last year that the present quarters are entirely too small to properly house the animals, parade wagons and cars. The private car shops of the Ringlings will be greatly enlarged, big sanitary barns will be constructed for both the ring stock and the baggage horses, and additions will be added to every building in the quarters. It is expected to have the new buildings fully completed before the show makes the last stand of the season. Paul Spearing, a train watchman, who was shot by a tramp he ejected from the third section, at Ogden, Utah, a few weeks ago, has been discharged from the Ogden hospital, and is again on duty with the show. Spearing received a _ calibre bullet in his left arm. The man who shot him escaped.
New York Clipper, October 3, 1903, pp. 754, 761. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Sig. Sautelle's Big Show notes. Our lucky star did not desert us last week, when we showed in the centre of the severe wind storm which swept over Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey and New York. All 'round great damage was done property, yet we escaped with nothing more serious than the curtailment of our afternoon and evening performances in Centerville. This is the third show to take the Eastern shore within a few weeks, but at each stand business has been far in excess of that done upon our previous visit. Our big show performance is an imperial one in the fullest meaning of the word. Among aerial acts, in which seven people take part some of the features may be mentioned four at one and the same time: the Ellets and scores of ground acts. While the trains were being made up the other night occupants of the privilege car were given quite a fright. The coaches were on a siding, between which and the main track there is barely room for two cars to pass. As the flats were passing, one of the big top centre poles furrowed on side of the Ida Bell car, breaking windows and creating all kinds of confusion. In the excitement Mr. Sautelle thought only of his wife, and while hurrying to her in his private car, he fell from a platform, painfully bruising his left arm. The noise and jar made by the pole tearing its way along the car awakened manager Robbins, who, in leaping from his bed, seriously injured his left leg. Side show manager Morrow was also hurt by falling between the car and freight house platform. Special agent Stowell resigned his position Saturday to devote his attention to the hotel in Beaver Dams, N.Y., to which property he recently acquired title. Another new Pullman sleeper, the "Catalpa," has been received and adds greatly to the beauty of our previously handsome trains.
Notes from Bert Silver's Vaudeville Circus and Silver Family Swiss Bell Ringers. We closed the season at St. Charles, Sept. 18, shipped the outfit to Stroudish, our headquarters, by rail, and drove the stock home, the constant rain making the roads very bad. We opened May 18, and have done a good business all season, and gave the best of satisfaction. Next year the show will be enlarged to double the size, and, as we have a reputation, we expect to do big business. We play a couple of fairs under canvas, then we open in opera houses, with our winter show, Swiss Bell Ringers. The same people that opened with the show closed with us, except two,and the manager has a receipt in full from all.
The Great Beno, wire walker, canceled his street fair engagments and joined the John Robinson Ten Big Shows for the remainder of the season at Osage City, Kan., Sept. 14.
Harry Delkano has been obliged to lay off for a few weeks, on account of sickness, with the John Robinson Circus. He expects to rejoin the show in a short time.
Some mischievous small boys set fire to one of the cars of the Wallace circus at Scranton, Pa., on Sept. 12, and before the flames were extinguished four leopards and a South American jaguar died of the smoke.
Note from the Barnum & Bailey Show. . . . Josephine Koubeck is now driving a beautiful black stallion in an act similar to the one put on by Mlle Girard, who closed some weeks ago. The horse, and the dogs which work with it, have been broken by Miss Koubeck, assisted by Hugh Herzog, within a period of two months. "'Cycle" (Nick Howard) has increased the height of his perpendicular bicycle track, and his act is now more thrilling than ever.
Walter L. Main Show notes. At Oxford, Pa., nine horses and a mule were killed by lightning, and several drivers injured, and at Chambersburg, Pa., Alex. Sutherland, the boss train inspector, was killed by being run over by flat cars. . . . Hugo and Shepard leave the show at Carlisle, to work in one of Watson's companies for the winter.
Wallace Show notes. The show started at Peru, Ind., April 25, and though we had rough experiences with wrecks, fires, etc., it is doing the largest business in Central Pennsylvania of any circus aggregation that has visited that section this season. In every town people have been turned away. This was the case at Harrisburg, Pa., 14, where the show made a decided hit. Gerald Fitzgerald, press agent with this show, has been a busy man furnishing authentic accounts of the numerous accidents. He is one of the youngest press agents in the business and has won much praise from the press all over the country. The show will continue through the Cumberland Valley to the South, and will remain out the best part of the winter, unless bad weather necessitates an early closing.
Roster of the concert with Sells & Downs' United Shows: the Kinnebrews, sketch team; Chas. Rentz, blackface comedian; Flora Albion, vocalist; the Sharrocks, rural sketch; Cicelia Fortune, song and dance; the Smiths, club jugglers; Mille Heal, cornet soloist; Sadie Onzo, coon songs; George Atkinson, monologue, and stage manager, and Winslow and Nelson's farce comedy, "The Long Distance Telephone."
Notes from the Hall & Sample Circus. We had our first blown down of the season at Vienna, Sept. 7, at about 7 o'clock. Nothing was damaged, and we put as much of the show as possible into the opera house, and played to good business in spite of the downpour. The Three Fontinelles, our feature tight wire act, are making a hit everywhere with their jumps over tables, chairs, parasols, etc. Baby Nina receives an ovation at every performance. People who have joined lately are: Erwin Lawfer, cornet; J. W. Tansey, trombone; Robert Spears, tuba, and Prof. Mead, stereopticon.
The Bros. Ahern have dissolved partnership, and Emil, of the team, is working with Ed. Baxter, doing a hand to hand balancing act. Hereafter the team will be known as Ahern and Baxter. They are in their twenty-third week with the John Robinson Circus, and report success with their new act.
Le Clair Zelleno has laid aside his mystic wand for a couple of weeks, as he is clowning with John Robinson's Ten Big Shows.
Notes from the Barnum & Bailey Show. . . . Lulu Sutcliffe had a severe fall at the close of the ladies' jockey race during the matinee performance 19. Fortunately she was only bruised about the shoulders, and is again able to ride. Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Ringling visited the Greatest Show on Earth during the last week of the Chicago engagement. Ernest Dale, clown, closed 18, and Bobby Lee closed 23, to play vaudeville dates. Mr. and Mrs. Frank Oakley (Slivers), and Mr. and Mrs. Alex. Seabert are preparing an amusing comedy riding act for the vaudeville stage. They will be seen in New York during the winter season.
Augustus Jones has purchased a large building and ten acres of land in Clifton Forge, Va., for a permanent winter quarters for his Indian Bill West Show, which closes at Fairmount, Va., Oct. 3, and will be shipped direct to Clifton Forge. Mr. Jones will open a small tent show, and go South for all winter, by rail. The Indian Bill Show has been a nice winner on the season.
Joe Robothem, contracting agent of the Great Melbourn Shows, has closed the season with that show, after a successful season of five months. Advance roster of the Great Melbourn Shows: John Greene has charge of No. 1 advance, and John Riechel, charge of No. 2.
Maretta Ina Jacot and Roy Dennis Smith were married at Petersburg, Va., on Sept. 22. The bride is a performer and the groom a musician, and both are connected with the Great Wallace Show.
S. P. Bowman, side show man, writes: "I closed with the Wright Carnival Co. at Auburn, Ind., Sept. 19, and joined the Harris Nickel Plate Circus at Benton, Ky. I will present a new high class magic act of Punch and Judy in the side show. Mme. Bowman joins at Jackson, Tenn. Sept. 25.
Texas Jack, whose Wild West and Circus is now touring South Africa, is in New York, engaging Indians, etc., for the company. He will shortly sail for South Africa. The company includes: Ajax, contortionist; Lyle Marr, equestrienne; Texas Jack, in his exhibition of sharpshooting, a troupe of zebras, and many other features.
Notes from Ringling Brothers' World's Greatest Shows. The monster pipe organ is a big hit throughout the West. In parade it is hauled by eight horses, and every day Professor Cross, the organist, plays a selected programme that includes a bit of many things popular in the rag time line, and numerous church hymns and anthems. In the menagerie he gives recitals for an hour, preceding each performance, and his rendition of Mendelssohn's "Wedding March" never fails to elicit hearty applause. . . . Mrs. Julien Ty Bell, of the Ty Bell Sisters, was forced to go to a hospital in San Francisco. She is suffering with appendicitis. At first the surgeons said an operation would be necessary, but the patient showed signs of improvement, and the use of the knife was abandonded. Mrs. Ty Bell expects to return to the show next week. Mrs. Dick Reno, a member of the Jerusalem ballet, and the wife of one of the forty famous clowns, is another 'Frisco hospital patients. Mrs. Reno has a slight attack of malarial fever. Al. White, the "rube" clown, who has been ill for a week, is again at work. . . . Robert Meek, the superintendent of ring stock, was greatly astonished at Santa Cruz to find the majority of his horses busily eating dirt from the lot. An investigation disclosed the fact that the ground had been sprinkled with salt water before the circus arrived, and the horses were simply after an appetizer - the salt that remained after the water had soaked away.
The Beall Family, heavy weight lifters, cannon ball jugglers and tight wire performers, have closed a successful season with the Great Melbourn Shows, and are engaged for the World's Fair Amusement Co. street fair, at Riverside Park, St. Louis, for sixteen days, commending Sept. 26.
James A. Bailey, of the Barnum & Bailey Circus, has signed agreements for the erection of a $150,000 house and a $40,000 stable at Mt. Vernon, N.Y., which are to go up this Fall on forty acres purchased recently by him from the Glover estate.
Claude Raul writes that he closed with Frisbee Bros.' R. R. Shows, after a season of seventeen weeks, and has just finished three fair dates, with two more to follow.
Mrs. Nettie O'Brine had a birthday anniversary, Sept. 20, with the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus. Many handsome presents were given to her. Mrs. Anna Faber gave a burnt wood picture fram with photos of herself and husband; Mrs. Bell ___, a handsome lace collar; Mrs. Grace Spath, a silver handled nail brush; ___, a silver handled darning ball; Elsie St. Leon, a silver button hook; Mollie Wilton, a silver shoe horn; Mrs. Marie ___, a silver handled tooth brush; Mamie Cline, a burnt wood jewel case; Mrs. Danie Ryan, a silver pair of embroidery scissors, and Mrs. Clifton, a silver sugar souvenir spoon.
New York Clipper, October 10, 1903, p. 786. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from C. H. Knight's Mammoth Twenty-Five Cent Circus. This show, consisting of thirty-two people and twenty-six head of stock, opened May 6, at Dunkirk, O. It was said to be the best wagon show on the road this season, and the show received the hightest of praise. The ring performance conprised ten acts: Dan Rice, with his six Shetland ponies and three well trained pigs; clowns, contortionists, acrobats, barrel jumpers, wire walkers, trapeze and ladder acts. The stage work, consisting of singing and dancing, was given by the ___ Sisters. After meeting with great success they closed the season Sept. 26, at McGuffy, O., to a crowded house, and pulled into winter headquarters at Dunkirk, O. This show will open early in the Spring, under the name of Knight & Smith's Mammoth 25 cent Circus.
Alex A. Lowande, now with the Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Shows writes: "We are having big business, and Oscar Lowande has signed for 1904 with the Forepaugh & Sells Bros. The Lowande Bros. start out a show in April 1904, from Petersburg, Ill. The owners of the Lowande Bros. Show are: Martinho Lowande Jr., Oscar Lowande, ___ Lowande and Alex G. Lowande. They have everything in hand already. I have made a success with my rough riding act, but ___ laid up with an injured leg."
Notes from La Mont Bros.' Show. We are still playing to good business, now touring the Southern part of Illinois. The show closes about Oct. 24. The ghost walks once a week. . . . the band is still opening, pleasing the people, and is always in the front with excellent music. L. McMackin is first cornet and leader. A sad accident happened to one of the boys recently. Harry Williams, principal clown and comedian, fell and broke his arm, the other arm having been broken about two months before. He felt very bad over it at first, but the pain left him soon. Manager La Mont headed a list with a ten dollar bill, and went to all the boys and made up a purse of $75 for Harry. The boys have all shown their greatest sympathy, and hope he will soon be able to be back with the show.
L. J. Julian closed with the Busby Bros.' Show last week, as did also the Famous Little Julians.
Rippel Show notes. We are still in the jungles of Indiana, and our business is at top notch. The weather is cold and frosty, but we get them just the same. We are having a new big top made for next season, as the present top has proven too small this season. We will add two more wagons to our outfit, making eleven wagons. Our parade will be a feature next season, and a novelty for a small show.
New York Clipper, October 17, 1903, p. 801. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Welsh Bros.' Circus new winter quarters. The "Newest Great" is now safely and most comfortably domiciled in its new quarters at Gordonville, Pa., a suburb of Lancaster City. The new property includes a farm with one hundred and ten acres of fertile land, upon which all of the fodder used by the show will be raised. There is stabling room for over one hundred head of stock. A railroad runs close to the quarters, and special tracks have been laid, running into the farm, where the rolling stock is stored, all of which is covered with sheds. The water facilites are unusually good, the Conestoga River flows close to the farm, and there are two artesian wells which produce excellent water. It is certainly an ideal place for sheltering a circus. A new ring barn is under construction, which will be completed by Nov. 21, when practicing will be commenced on the many new equestrain and animal acts. Jack Cousins has been engaged to preside over this department. It is now definitely settled that the show will carry a small menagerie next season, and performing wild beasts will also figure prominently in the programme. An entire new spread of canvas has been ordered from a leading tent maker. All of the tents will be of modern build, and will be noticeable for their attractiveness and up to ___. New men will comprise the operating department, which will include some of the best "boss" workmen of the profession. Particular attention will be paid to the arena programme, many novel and new acts have already been booked, and two rings and a platform will be used to exploit the performance. The side show will be conducted on new lines, and the parade will be given special attention, as much money will be expended for new wardrobe and trappings. The two sleeping cars recently destroyed by fire will be replaced by new Pullmans of present day make, as special thought will be given for the comforts of performers, musicians and employees. Mr. and Mrs. Jack Cousins have purchased an eight room cottage at Gordonville, and will hereafter make it their permanent house. Clinton Newton has signed as business manager and general press agent, which will be his seventeenth season with this "troupe." Newton is now at quarters, busily engaged in preparing advance literature and readable newspaper matter for the new season. The "Col." M. H. Welsh, is at present in the Western and Southern country, combining business with pleasure. Genial John Welsh is enjoying his spare moments in fishing and boating on the Conestoga. Very little repairing will be done here this season, as the entire show from stem to stern with bee new, as all of this year's material has already been disposed of. The show will really be one of the brightest and best looking "little big of big __" shows ever seen on the road. All new territory will be invaded next Summer; the Western States will be principally played, which, by the way, will be the first visit of the show in that section. . . .
Chas. Lee Jr., who has been six seasons with the Barnum & Bailey Shows, has signed for next season with the same show. For next season he has purchased some fine stock to break during the winter, which he will ship to his father's farm at Canton, Pa., where he has a fine ring barn. His wife will practice a new principal act for next season.
W. R. Kellogg, who was injured in the blow down of the M. L. Clark Show on Aug. _, is still confined at Alexian Brothers' Hospital, St. Louis, Mo., but is now up and around on crutches. It will be several weeks, however, before he will be able to leave the hospital and resume his position.
Notes from Canada Frank's R. R. Shows, F. M. Myers, manger. . . . pulled into winter quarters at Tipton, Ia., Oct. 7, where we will take a three weeks' vacation. F. M. Myers is to put out at big vaudeville co. The Great Martino, novelty aerialist, and Alberto, contortionist, have signed with him for the winter season.
Chas. A. Koster, special lithographer and banner man with the Walter L. Main Shows, closed at Charleston, W. Va., owing to illness.
New York Clipper, October 24, 1903, pp. 825, 835. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Eddie Lamont, muscial expert, is in his twenty-second week with Sun Bros.' Circus, and has signed for twenty-five more weeks as a special feature for the South.
Notes from the Dashington Bros.' Circus and Vaudeville Co. We will go into winter quarters Oct. 20, after a successful season. Will make our winter quarters in Danville, Ill., for the fourth year, and expect to go out next May with a still larger show.
Mrs. J. H. Busby recently presented her husband with a baby boy.
The Gollmar Bros. closed a successful season of twenty-five weeks Oct. 17. Several of the old performers and musicians have been re-engaged for next season. The show will be enlarged to quite an extent for 1904.
Notes from the Ringling Bros.' World's Greatest Shows. The California tour was ended Sunday, Oct. 4, when the four long trains crept over the bridge spanning the Colorado River at Yuma . . . The trains tarried only long enough for the horses to be fed, watered and exercised, and then pulled out for Phoenix, where two performances were given Monday, to crowded tents. . . . Sunday, Oct. 4, marked the natal anniversary of George Parsons, who, with his brothers, have the candy and lemonade concession. Being of a retiring disposition, Parsons did not tell of his birthday until evening, and then, as the train of Pullmans sped over the desert, he prepared for sleep. But sleep was not for him on this night; word was quickly passed through the cars that a birthday party would be held in the "Baltimore" at eight o'clock. Everybody was invited, and the gentlemen who extended the invitations urged prospective guests to come prepared to do a vaudeville turn. The Baltimore was crowded, and Parson, after being duly congratulated, was informed that the visitors had come to his party and were prepared to entertain him. Al. Conlon, superintendent of the side show, was made master of ceremonies, and called for each turn, and the turns, well, they caused so much laughter that the roof of the car was almost shaken from its fastenings. The impromptu affair served to pass away several hours that otherwise would have been weary ones, and the laughter it caused greatly aided digestion. Charles F. Ryan, special detective with the show, spent two weeks in Phoenix for the benefit of his health. He was royally entertained by Jack Gibson, the "King of the Cowboys." Mr. Gibson is very wealthy, has good horses, and a heart as big as a bushel basket. . . . Mr. Gibson was ably assisted on show day by Frank Connelly, a former Wisconsin man, and an old time trouper. Mrs. Julien Tybell, who was forced to enter a hospital in San Francisco, on account of a severe attack of appendicitis, returned to the show at Las Vegas, New Mexico. She is greatly improved, and is again doing her thrilling strong jaw act. Dollie Julien, who had the misfortune to shatter several bones in her right ankle while riding at Whatcom, Wash., has returned to the show, but will not be able to ride for at least two weeks. . . . Frank Barnes, a trainer employed by Captain Webb, who has the two troupes of juggling seals with the show, met with a fatal accident Oct. 4. While feeding the seals just after the first train left Yuma, Barnes slipped from a flat car and fell on his head by the side of the track. The train was puffing up a grade at the time, and a brakeman dropped off the rear platform of the caboose and hurried to the injured man, who was unconscious. When the top of the grade was reached the engine was detatched and sent back after Barnes, who was taken into Phoenix and placed in the Sisters' Hospital. Every effort was made to save his life, but he died two days later without regaining consciousness. The fall caused concussion of the brain. The body was sent to Akron, O., the former home of Barnes for interment.
The Great Delkanos have rejoined the John Robinson Circus, after a two week's absence.
B. L. Bowman, manager of the side shows and privilege department of the Hargreaves Big R. R. Shows, has located in Cincinnati, after a successful season, and will spend the winter there.
Colonel Daniel F. Boone, a circus manager and trainer of wild animals, died in San Francisco, Oct. 12, after a long illness, aged sixty-two years. He was born in Kentucky.
New York Clipper, October 31, 1903, pp. 849, 861. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Sautelle Circus closed the season at Dinwiddie Court House, Va., Oct. 21.
J. S. Ross writes: "While passing through Clifton Forge, Va., I met R. B. Smith, one of the oldest and most popular 'privilege men' in the show business. He is taking a much needed rest in his two cozy cars at Indian Bill's quarters. Fishing and hunting are now his only occupation, after so many years of circus life."
Plamondon and Amondo will close the season with Ringling Bros.' Circus on Nov. 6, and go to their home at Topeka, Kan., for a few weeks, after which they will produce a novel aerial act in vaudeville. They write that they are well booked up for the winter, and have signed contracts for the tenting season of 1904 with Ringling Bros., which will make their fifth consecutive season with that show.
Walter L. Main notes. The Main Shows will closed a very successful season at Tazewell, Tazewell County, Va., Saturday, Oct. 31. Nos. 1 and 2 advertising cars were paid off at Lynchburg, Va., by W. W. Powers, treasurer, and the opposition brigade, under Walter T. Murphy, finished East Radford and Tazewell in their inimitable way. General Ed. C. Knupp, general agent of the shows, went to Jamestown, N.Y. 21, where he will recuperate for a couple of months, away from shop talk and the irritations of laying awake nights wondering how, when and where the show is going next, and the reason it ought to go there. John D. Carey, than whom there is no livelier nor better press agent extant atop of earth, went to Hornellsville, N.Y. last week, and under his own vine and fig tree. The Main Shows the past summer started at Springfield, O., April 18, with packed canvas night and day. Playing the important cities of Dayton, Hamilton, Columbus and Cleveland, O., they made Buffalo, stopping at Erie, thence to ___, Syracuse, Niagara Falls, and then ___ St. Catherines for a Canada tour. . . .
The Forepaugh- Sells Bros.' Circus closed its season after the performance at San Antonio, Tex., Oct. 20. This closing was earlier than was originally scheduled, and was necessitated because of the outbreak of yellow fever in that portion of Texas where the show was booked.
Alex. A. Lowande closed with the Forepaugh-Sells Show at Hillsboro, Tex., Oct. 12. The Lowande & Beck Comedy Co. will open next month, to play through New York and New Jersey.
New York Clipper, November 7, 1903, p. 886. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Howe's Great London Shows. We are playing Alabama and Georgia, to good business. Notwithstanding the short cotton crop, there will be no second picking of cotton, as they generally have in these States the last of November. The show made a long run Oct. 18, from Jasper, Ala., to La Verne. Being the first tent show in La Verne in five years, the whole county conferd there to enjoy the sights. The capacity of the tents was not sufficient to take care of the big crowd. . . . The show will close Christmas Day and winter in the South. ___ White and wife joined the shows Oct. 25, to do clown and concert work. . . .
Hall & Sample Circus notes. We closed the season of 1903 at Worthing, South Dakota, Oct. __, after a very successful run of twenty-three weeks, losing by three stands in that time and having one blow down, which did little damage. Show covered 1,000 miles, and will winter at the Dakota City, Ia.
Notes from the William Todt Famous Show. We closed the season Oct. 31, and go in winter quarters at Cheriton, Va., We have had a very successful season of twenty-eight weeks, mostly week and one day stands. Some of the performers and musicians have been re-engaged for next season. We will open the first week in April, at Cape Charles, Va. Next season will find this show twice its present size, with an entirely new spread of canvas. Mr. Todt will tour Virginia with a small novelty company, opening Nov. 16, at Old Point Comfort. This show has visited five different States, and has established itself in fine favor as the "big one" of popular priced arenic tented exhibitions.
Notes from Teets Bros.' Shows. The show is meeting with success through Mississippi. We omitted the matinee performance on Oct. 22, and paid a visit to the "Greatest on Earth."
Reed's European Show notes. When this reaches the readers of your valuable paper we will be housed in our new winter quarters near Chillicothe, O., having closed the season of 1903 at Barnbridge, O. We opened the season March 16, at Petersburg, Va., and traveled through parts of Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Ohio, making one hundred and ninty-nie towns, and traveld seventeen hundred and eighty-two miles. This, being a wagon show, is a pretty good showing. During the month of April, on account of continued rains, swollen streams, washed away bridges and bad roads, we lost eight afternoon and five night shows. Everything looked gloomy, but the bright, cheerful letters from general agent Hodgins came in daily, telling us he would push the clouds away and to keep moving, as there was money awaiting our coming. From May until our closing date business was big at every point, and as manager Reed expressed himself: "Boys, this is the most prosperous and successful season I have ever enjoyed during my long service as manager and owner." Notwithstanding the hardships and losses we had at the start, the greater part of our success belongs to J. Geo. Hudgins, general agent, for it was his business capacity and experience that kept the show moving and brought it safely to our winter home. During the thirty-two weeks not one change has been made in the company; everyone that opened with us will close on our last stand. There has been perfect harmony and good feeling among us, and everybody has enjoyed the best of health. They go to their homes without one cent due them, and leaving their best wishes to Mr. and Mrs. Reed. At Waverly, O., manager Reed had ordered, at a restaurant, an old fashioned New England Thanksgiving dinner for the entire company fo forty-three people. On this occasion our general agent, J. Geo. Hudgins made his first visit back to the show; the first time in thirty weeks. A most enjoyable time resulted. General agent Hudgins will be the guest of Mr. and Mrs. Reed for several days at winter quarters, then will return to his home at Bennington, Vt., for a rest. Most of the performers will play dates during the winter.
New York Clipper, November 14, 1903, p. 901. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Indian Bill's Wild West and Mexican Hippodrome, Augustus Jones, sole owner and manger. This show opened at McKee's Rocks, Pa., April 22, and closes at Fairmont, W. Va., Oct. _, and shipped to winter quarters, Clifton Forge, Va. We have made all one day stands, exhibited in __ States, used twenty-eight railroads, traveled eight thousand miles, and had the following equipment: three sleepers, five flats, three stocks, one advertising car, one hundred head of stock, and two hundred people. This was Mr. Jones' first season in handling a large show, but he proved himself to be a good manager, as the show had a very successful season. Mr. Jones also owns and runs the Model Plate Show, which is the best equipped two car show in America. This show is now in the South, and will be out all winter. Mr. Jones will go to Hot Springs for a much needed rest shortly.
Notes from La Mont Bros.' Shows. We closed our third successful season Oct. 24, at Salem, Ill., and on the following morning the company separated. On Oct. 26 the show was moved to our new winter quarters, the old fair grounds, which has been rebuilt and fitted up for the show. We traveled this season ___ miles overland, visiting three states - Illinois, Indiana and Michigan. At ___, Ill. July 17, we were struck by a cyclone which did considerable damage. Everything went down, wagons and cages rolled around like footballs, the large ___ cage was torn completely to pieces, and ___, the large lion, started for the central part of the town. But the time he reached the business part of the town the wind was over, and the ___ all rushed out to see the the rain, but the first thing that caught their eye was the large lion running frantically up and down the street. A ___ cage was provided, and with very little trouble had him once more safe behind the bars. Preparations are now being made for 1904, when the show will be considerably larger.
Notes from E. G. Smith's Dog and Pony Shows. We closed a very successful season at Lambertsville, Pa., on Oct. 24, and arrived at our spacious winter quarters 26, amid a furious snow storm. The snow kept falling all day, and the wind blew at a high rate. Everybody kept working and the outfit and stock were soon housed, and every member of the company spent the evening around a blazing fire in out cozy office. The season just past was the most eventful in the history of the show, for every member was on the sick list, and at one time only two men were fit for duty. At ___ Fort we were blown down and so badly torn up that the show lost two stands before the necessary repairs could be made. The stock was stricken with distemper, and two trained donkeys succumbed to the disease, but were soon replaced by younger ones, and they did fully as well as the older one. The trained ponies were also stricken, but successful in working at every performance. We played a season of twenty-six weeks in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, Maryland and Virginia, losing only three days, and the season was a success financially, although not up to our record breaker of 1902. Preparations are already under way for next season, when the show will be larger and better than ever. Our two new ponies, Lena and Joe, are showing good signs of learning their difficult acts fast, and our new riding dog, Duke, is doing his tricks daily. We expect to perfect and train two ponies, four dogs and one donkey, and all usual repairs will be done here, at winter quarters, for season of 1904. . . . J. J. Ray Dee joins Harkness & Fox for the winter. . . . People at winter quarters are: John Jones, Walter Dixon and E. G. Smith and wife.
Sautelle notes. With the appearance of the four horse act the band played "Home, Sweet Home," and the 1903 season of Sig. Sautelle's New Big Railroad Show was all but ended the night of Oct. 31, in Havre de Grace, Md. At the close of the performance all of the employees made their farewell visit to the ticket wagon, and, without an exception, all received their money in full, in spite of the face that the show lost twenty-one performances during the summer. During the half year we were out, fourteen States were visited, a trifle over 10,000 miles were traveled, one hundred and fifty-eight jumps made over twenty-eight railroads, on thirty-two contracts, and two hundred and ninety-five performances given. Numerous wind and rain storms were encountered, and, of course, they affected business. The heavy opposition we experienced from first to last resulted only in boosting our receipts, and, notwithstanding the many lost days, the campaign just ended has been the banner one in the history of Mr. Sautelle. In fact, in no three previous years did he clean up as much good money as he did the past season. His show's earnings have been such that, were he so inclined, he could retire from the circus world and find his waking hours fully occupied clipping coupons and collecting revenues from other investments. Instead he will, upon the return of his wife and self from a trip to Europe, add the finishing touches to the work now under qay for this thirty-two car show next summer. The four hundred or more employees dwelt together with the peace and harmony of one large and happy family, and quarrels from petty jealousy and other causes were unknown during 1903. Several of the old performers have been signed for next year, and their number will be further increased during the winter by some of the most renowned performers that money can secure, both in American and Europe. Of course, Frank A. Robbins will continue as general manager, and he and Mr. Sautelle promise many genuine surprises for another year. Of the visitors during the closing week may be mentioned: Col. Mike Welch, of the famous Welch Brothers' Shows; Dave Costello, formerly a well known equestrian, now the proprietor of a hotel in Henderson, N.C.; manager Hargraves, of the Hargraves Show, aslo his treasurer . . . and legal adjuster Powley. Mr. Costello accompanied us to winter quarters with a view to buying one of Mr. Sautelle's Cortland hotels. Sam J. Banks has returned to his newspaper labors in Albany, N.Y., after completing his initial season in circusdom as contracting press agent for Sig. Sautelle, with whom he has re-engaged for the summer of 1904. . . . J. C. Banks has joined hands with J. W. Shipman in the launching of a two car "Tom" show. They will carry thirty-four people, six ponies, three donkeys and all special scenery, and will feature both the parade and performance. The company is book solidly until April 26 in real "Tom" cities. While abroad with his wife, Sig. Sautelle will keep his "circus eye" open for such novelties as will be new to American showgoers next season.
New York Clipper, November 21, 1903, p. 925. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Lew Graham arrived here Nov. __, from England. After a few days' stay in New York he will go to his home in the West. Mr. Graham will assume the management of the Ringling Bros.' side shows the coming season.
The Deer Family of Indians sailed Nov. 10 for South Africa, to fill a year's engagement with the Texas Jack Circus.
Notes from Sun Bros.' Shows, No. 1. We closed a very successful season of thirty weeks at Suffolk, Va., Nov. 10. This is the last season of the wagon show, as we are to go on the railroad next season. We will be one of the finest twelve car shows in the country. The show is to be enlarged with two rings and a platform, and is to have a large menagerie, big kid show, with eighteen double deck banners, also a band of eight pieces. The kid show will be under the personal direction of Geo. Sun. The big show will have thirty-six acts, and all of them will be somewhat sensational. The big show band will be under our old reliable leader, Prof. John Shelly, and will number twenty-six pieces, being one of the main features. Most of the old people are re-engaged for next season. Among them are: the Ardello Family, Bros. Richards, Conklin Family, Anchor, human snake; Leo Collins, high diver; Fletcher, balloonist; Madame Glycerine, Madame Stickney and her twenty trained dogs, goats and monkeys; Billy Reid, Dr. Fred Tryon, Al. Williams, John Shelly, Lawrence Anchor, L. Chasm, P. Keller, F. Pierce, Sticks Allen, F. Ferguson, Si Glover, Smokey Scherman, John Dusch, F. Walker, Chas. La Nole, Leo. Collins, ?. Kane, ?. Gardner, Ferris Family, Uncle Bill Randolph and his thirty-six horse act.
Sig. Sautelle's Side Show notes. The side show this season was a complete success, financially and otherwise. The programme was excellent in every respect, and the receipts will double that of any previous season. Manager Jas. Morrow did everything in his power to furnish a pleasing performance, and was well rewarded for his efforts. Harry Moulton, the Great ___, Joe Cramer and Lumford, and Davis' Sunny South Troubadors were the headliners and made good. Manager Morrow has been engaged for the season of 1904, and has already engaged two big feature acts. All new canvas, banners, ticket boxes, stage carpets, draperies, etc., including a beautiful a beautiful minstrel first part setting, will be ready for the opening date. Mr. Morrow starts for a visit to New York, Chicago and St. Louis in a few days.
New York Clipper, December 5, 1903, pp. 970, 982. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Four Flying Banvards, novelty casting act, have signed contracts with the Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Show of the tenting season of 1904.
The Sam Dock Shows closed its tenting season at Sandy Hook, Va., Nov. 23. The outfit was shipped to and stored in Fredricksburg, Va. The last three weeks' business with the show, we are informed, were the banner weeks of the season.
Frank Ellet, manager of the Ellet Troupe, aerial bar gymnasts, is getting a novelty aerial bar apparatus made, which he will introduce for the first time next season.
Chas. D. Hammond, who has been press agent with Gentry Bros.' Famous Shows, is visiting with friends in Chicago.
Billy Reid closed a successful season of thirty weeks with Sun Bros.' show No. 1, and has been re-engaged for next season to clown and do his wooden shoe dance in the concert.
Grace Hamilton, calliope player, closed a successful twenty-eight weeks' engagement with the Walter L. Main Circus at Tazewell, Va., Oct. 31. Miss Hamilton will increase her musical act for next season by adding eight different musical instruments.
Notes from Geo. S. Ely's Two Shows. At the appearance of the "January Mule," the band played "Home Sweet Home," and all people connected with the Great Ely Shows knew that the season of 1903 was over. All gave three cheers, and went their way to the hotel, where a farewell hand shaking until the season of 1904, or until we meet again. The show closed at Benton, Ill., Nov. 3, and it was the best season the show has had since it began, twelve years ago. Mr. Ely has ordered everything new, from bale ring to seat plank in the cook house. There will be no old nags around the show, and everything will be new in 1904. Mr. Ely has ordered fourteen new wagons, seven new cages and fifty-eight sets of new harness. He has hired Prof. P. L. Burns to train a new troupe of goats, dogs and pigs, and Prof. E. G. Carroll to train a new troupe of horses and two fine steers. The show traveled 4,109 miles in Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin, and only lost three performances, on account of high water in Iowa. The show is wintered on the fair grounds in Harrisburg, where it wintered in 1901, and has a fine new ring barn. Profs. Burns and Carroll have begun training for the coming season of 1904.
Bonheur Bros.' notes. The Golden Mascot Shows arrived at winter quarters, after a very successful season extending from April 30 to Nov. 17, the last day, however, being canceled on account of a severe cold wave, and the show went into quarters without giving a closing exhibition in its home town, as advertised. All performers and working people were paid off in full, and, after a bounteous supper, departed for their various destinations. The Wilmarth Family remained at the winter quarters, as they will go out during the winter with the Golden Mascot Company. Bobby Ward and Frantz Keith had not far to go, being residents of Alva and Freedom, in Woods County, Okla. Most of the show company had homes in different parts of Kansas. Dick Dilts, Ed. Myles and Jack Baldwin started for Southern California to spend the winter in San Angeles. Of losses in stock, nine horses were left behind during the season, three of which died, and one was stolen by a horse thief. Nine valuable performing dogs were lost en route, and two trained goats succumbed from unknown causes. Although the losses by flood and tornado have exceeded those of any former season, the aggregate earnings of the show have far outdone all previous years, and the profits have been correspondingly greater. Those of the working people who remained faithful to their trust to the closing of the tenting season were each presented with a suit of clothes of the latest style suitable for the cold blasts of winter. This generous gift for sobriety and faithful performance of duty was always considered a fable by those who broke the rules of the show in the good ole summertime. Altogether the season, especially the last three months of it, have been very satisfactory to the managers.
King Solman, owing to poor health, was compelled to close his third seasons ahead of Reno & Alvord's Combined Shows, Nov. 16, at Greenfield, Tenn.
The Sun Bros. write: "We have not signed any one for our Progressive Shows, No. 1, for season of 1904, nor have we decided what kind or size show we will organize."
New York Clipper, December 12, 1903, p. 997. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Oscar Lowande and wife are sojourning at their home in Reading, Mass. He has signed with the Forepaugh & Sells Bros. Circus for the season of 1904.
J. C. O'Brien has the ___ Shows and uptown wagon with the Campbell Bros. for next season.
Horace Webb closed his second season with the John Robinson Ten Big Shows and has signed with the Ringling Bros. World's Greatest Shows for 1904, to do his novelty revolving act and clown.
Notes from Glasscock's Combined Shows. We will close our season at our old winter quarters, Long View, Tex., Dec. 19. The show closes earlier than usual, as Mr. Glasscock intends to start out with a brand new outfit in the Spring. Mr. Glasscock will leave the show Dec. 1, to purchase eight new cages and one baby elephant. The roster has been all season: Moncayo, Samwell and Family, Joe Richard, Hattie Richard, Nellie Richard, Foster Glasscock, Ruth Glasscock, Charlie and Teddie Arnold, ___ and Family, and Will Elser. Alex Glasscock's troupe of educated Shetland ponies has been the feature this year.
Notes from Frank Leopold's Shows. We are in winter quarters after laboring under many disappointments through people not joining us. We closed the show in Landsdale, Pa. This show will go out next season with a brand new top, 80ft. with a 40ft. middle piece. The show has made money from the start to finish, and it was like one new family. We all tried to help one another. We toured the states of Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey and Maryland, playing the small towns, and made quite a reputation. Roster: Frank Leopold, manager; Jimmy Faust, assistant manager and seller of "pasteboards"; Bard and Zeno, the Panama comiques; Gilbons and Williamson, horizontal bars and double traps; Will Carter, bounding wire and head balancing; Harry Anderson, in pastimes of the Orient; Mons. ___, in foot juggling, and Phil Jones, the old time clown, singer and dancer. Working people: William Cobb, boss canvas man, with three assistants . . . This was a small show using two cars, a sleeper and dining car combined, and one baggage car.
___ Zech, wire walker and aerial worker, writes that he has just closed his second season with Dock's Keystone Show, and intends to open the Zech and Daron Shows next season. Outfit is all framed, ready for the road. Have a few heavy wagons to build, and painting to do. Our aim will be to run one of the neatest and cleanest 10 and 20 cent wagon shows in this section.
Buffalo Bill (Col. Wm. F. Cody) intends to embark in the show business on a bigger scale than at present, and to that end left Omaha last week for New York, where he will hold a conference with the heirs of Nate Salsbury, his old partner, looking to the acquisition of their interest in the Wild West Show.
Chas. ___, juggler and barrel kicker has signed with the Mollie Bailey's Great Southern Shows.
Notes from the James Shelby Show. We are now in the thirty-first week of our season. Have not had a blow down the whole season, and up to Nov. 20 had but one losing week. Since then we have encountered the late severe spell of bad weather, which extended to the Florida line, and by fighting against such embarrassments we have done a fair business. This is a wagon show, steadily coming to the front, and will close Dec. 19, for four weeks, to rebuild and paint up for the season of 1904. We are using the best of printing, and, like others, have found the best results in return.
Notes from the Hobson Show. The only one Hobson Show spent Thanksgiving day at Cale, Ind. Ter., and our general manager, C. C. Kenedy, gave us a Thanksgiving spread at the City Hotel, where full justice was done to turkey, etc. The dinner, which was enjoyed by all, was presided over by Capt. Hobson, with Arthur Burson doing the honors at the head of the table. The roster of the show is: Capt. C. D. Hobson, owner; C. C. Kenedy, manager; L. B. Dickinson, announcer for the big show; Harry P. Hobson, equestrian director; W. C. Kenedy, principal clown; Pearl Kenedy, knockabout and singing clown; Arthur Burson, slack wire and perch; Kennedy and Burson, double traps; Duke, bareback riding dog, and Willie Shoals, riding monkey, divid honors at each show. The band consists of ten pieces under the leadership of Prof. McNally. The sideshow is managed by L. R. Dickinson, with his freaks, also Madame Estelle and her den of snakes; the mystic cabinet . . . The show will go into winter quarters on Dec. __, closing a prosperous season, and will open the season of 1904 larger and better, with many new features added.
Walter L. Main notes. Mr. Main . . . called together his executive staff at winter quarters, in Geneva, O., last week. While the show was touring the country last season a spacious office building was erected at winter quarters. It is a handsome three story brick building in which there are twenty-two rooms. Every attache of the executive staff has his own private office, each of which is well furnished. The entire third floor is occupied by the mistress of wardrobe (Mrs. Taylor) and Werntz, with forty assistants. Thirty sewing machines have been installed, and these are all furnished with power from the electric dynamo that generates light for the entire winter quarters. Mr. Main occupies a suite of three rooms, which are models of comfort and elegance. The new offices were formally opened last week, when the executive staff was called to meet as an advisory board. Their surprise at the elegant new quarters was only equaled by their pleasure, and after every office had been visited, and the keys to the desks in them turned over to those who will occupy them, all sat down in the reception room to a fine luncheon. For three days Mr. Main was surrounded by his staff, and plans were discussed. General agent Knupp has been happier since the meeting than before it, and it is safe to assume that he has his work pretty thoroughly mapped out. The show will go out new throughout, and thre will be at least two strong features to eclipse anything ever carried by the Main Show. . . . Considerable of last season's paraphernalia has been disposed of to small shows, and large orders placed for new stuff. The entire wardrobe of last year has been sold, and an entirely new parade and inside wardrobe and trappings are being made. The menagerie will be considerably enlarged, and notwithstanding the flattering offers made for the herd of performing elephants, they will remain. Two new workingmen's sleepers have been contracted for. Two advertising cars are also being built from designs furnished by general agent Knupp. The repair shops, paint shops, ring barn, animal training quarters and car barns are all scenes of activity, for the "Guv'nor" would rather be a week ahead of time than one day behind time. There will be no change in the executive staff for the season of 1904, but it will be composed of the same men who have been attached to the Main Show for years. Mr. Main has some men on his staff who have been with him for ten years.
Representatives of the leading circuses went before the meeting of the board of directors of the Associated Bill Posters and Distributors of the United States and Canada, held Dec. __, at the Auditorium Hotel, Chicago, and obtained an amicable adjustment of a long standing grievance which they have cherished toward the bill posting firms of America. In another part of this issue see "With the Bill Posters," we give a detailed account of the meeting and the concessions which the circus men obtained. The ___ of prices for posting and the number of tickets which the bill posting firms shall received has been agreed upon in detail, and the leading circuses will hereafter have reason to believe that they will not be imposed upon by employing bill posters who are members of the association. The Ringling Show, Barnum Show, Main Show, Buffalo Bill's Wild West, the Forpaugh-Sells Show and Wallace's Circus were represented at the Chicago consultation, and the agreement between the association bill posters, presumably applies exclusively to those circuses. Nothing was said as to whether the agreement shall apply to minor circuses or traveling tented organizations no represented on the committee of circus men who entered into an agreement with the association directors. As will be seen by reference to the report of the convention, the practice of charging circuses which are party to the agreement exorbitant prices for bill posting, and exacting unreasonable concessions in the matter of free tickets, shall come to an end, at least in so far as the authority of the board of directors can be exercised over association memebers. Inasmuch as the association has decided to take steps to compel a representation of one bill posting firm in every city of ___ inhabitants, it will readily be seen that the Chicago pact will have far reaching influence and will be of great importance to at least a half dozen tented organizations.
1904
New York Clipper, January 2, 1904, p. 1087. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Andrew Downie notes. We got possession of our new winter quarters two weeks ago, and things are progressing finely with the new show. Blacksmiths, wagon builders, wood carvers, and painters are busy building new cages, ticket, tableau and band and baggage wagons. Fifteen wagons are well under way, and the first of the new year will find the remainder ready to take their place in the shops. When the first of April arrives the new show will be complete in every detail. Our new thirty-two whistle calliope will be a beauty. It is being built to replace the one smashed by a railroad last season. Our new ring barn was finished last week, and it is kept busy night and day. New stock is being broken, and the others put through their regular stunts daily. A. Downie McPhee has been on a trip to the horse show in Chicago, and while there purchased two car loads of horses, one car load arriving at Medina last week. He also secured, as side show features, a horse three years old, measuring twenty-one hands high, and another three years old, weighing one hundred and fifty pounds. All new harness has been ordered. We will carry two horse tents, two cook tents, dressing room, side show, and a four centre pole big top, which will be new. The following people have been secured: Bert Rutherford, assistant manager . . . S. Edw. Corbette, in charge of side show; G. W. Christie, general superintendent, in charge of stock; Andrew J. Baley, in charge of big top; Arthur Fordham, in charge of big show band; Dave Recardo, high diver for outside; J. Geo. Hudgins, general agent in charge of advance, Wallace Shaw, in charge of paper.
Notes from the Miles Orton Big Southern R. R. Shows. We have just celebrated the first anniversary of "The Big Southern," having been out continuously since Dec. 3, 1902. We have traversed as far south as Key West, and as far north as Pennsylvania. We are playing over our last year's territory in the South, and our business is a substantial increase over last year's. Good record, which certainly speaks well for the merits of this organization. The following have recently joined: Philip Harris, formerly of the Sautelle Show, to manage the advance, and he is doing effective work; Gordon Orton is again with us, coming on from the Robinson Show; the Musical Brennans, Edward and Maude, are also new members. Normie Orton, who had the misfortune to have his arm broken, caused by his horse stumbling, and throwing him violently to the ground, at Lenoir, Tenn., Oct. 28, has fully recovered and is now riding as of yore. Victor Clark, our trombonist, who was cut in the arm by some miscreant in Tennessee, has also recovered. We are now bound for Key West, and may tour Cuba and Jamaica. The executive staff is: Miles Orton, sole proprietor; Gus Fairbaks, general manager, Myron Orton, treasurer; Normie Orton, secretary; Charles Cooper, adjuster; Philip Harris, advance manager; Prof. Henry Snyder, leader of band; Dick Richards, superintendent of canvas; Peter Moran, master of properties. Performers in big show: Miles Orton, equestrian director; Normie Orton, principal equestrian camping act; Michael Cahill, cloud swing; Myron, wire act; Gordon Orton, head balancer and cloud swing; Orton Bros., double trapeze; the Great Norman, high wire bicyclist; Ed. Brennan, eccentric act; the Orton children, Iva and Clarence, American's youngest aerialists; Normie Orton, mule hurdle; Little Iva, menage act. Clowns: Myron Orton, principal; Ed. Brennan, singing clown; Master Clarence, infant jester.
Gerald Fitzgerald, press representative with the Great Wallace Shows last season, is spending the holidays at his home in Ogdensburg, N.Y. After New Year's Mr. Fitzgerald will again go on the road with a theatrical attraction. He has signed with the Great Wallace Shows for the season of 1904.
A. D. McPhee and Burt Rutherford attended Sautelle's auction sale at Cortland, N.Y.
A. L. Salvail will manage the Nickel show for J. C. O'Brien, with Campbell Bros.' Circus next season.
Chas. Koster, special opposition lithographer of the Walter L. Main Show, is laying off at Dayton. Mr. Koster wil next season again be ahead of the Main Shows.
Roster of Augustus Jones' Model Plate Railroad Show, which closed a successful season of thirty-five weeks at Balcksburg, S.C., Christmas day, and shipped to the new winter quarters, Clifton Forge, Va.; Augustus Jones, manager; E. H. Jones, general agent. Performers in big show: Bob Peasley, Nita, Emma Snyder, Dick Murray, Three Baldwyns, Carrie Franklin, Billy Lee, James Brooks, E. H. Sortwell, Alex. Jones' educated ponies, Lew Hershel's educated dogs, Arthur Dickson, leader of band . . .
Prof. A. J. Parks writes: "I will go to Frisbee Bros. headquarters, at Flint, Mich., about Feb. 15, where I will fit for the ring a troupe of eight ponies, which I will work this next season in addition to my school of fifteen marvelous dogs, this being my second season with Frisbee Bros.' New Big Railroad Shows."
The Jennier Family, acrobats, have just closed a successful season of forty-one weeks with Harris' Nickel Plate Shows, and are re-engaged for next season. They will remain in winter quarters, as the shows open their season again Feb. 27, 1904.
New York Clipper, January 9, 1904, pp. 1097, 1107. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Cap. Stewart's Vaudeville Circus. We are in winter quarters at Fort Wayne, Ind. Cap. Stewart is a busy man, working on new reserved seats, stakes, poles, etc. Our shop is small, but it is easy to keep it warm in the cold weather.
"Tody" Hamilton sends the following: "Amusement circles have been much exercised for some time with various rumors concerning an impending negotiation involding a change of interest in the Buffalo Bill Wild West. These speculations were set at rest by the conclusioin of a new and important deal last week between two of the most conspicuous and best known gentlemen in the amusement business in the workd, J. A. Bailey, sole owner of the Barnum & Bailey Show, and Col. W. F. Cody (Buffalo Bill). The death of Nate Salsbury a year ago made imperative a change in the management and proprietorship of the Wild West, and this change involved the purchase of the Salsbury interest by Col. W. F. Cody, before the expiration of the present year and the beginning of the next show season, because the widow (Mrs. Salsbury) could not take the active part in the control of the business her late husbaand was supposed to have exercised. This necessitated a new deal all around. Therefore the old agreement hitherto in force was dissolved, by consent of all concerned, and a new equal partnership formed between Cody & Bailey, by and through which these two gentlemen become the owners of all the rights, title and interest. The new firm will henceforth be known as Cody & Bailey, and the Wild West exhibition will be continued on the same general lines and methods which have resulted so satisfactorily to all parties in interest for many years past. At present the Wild West is in winter quarters in England, which country it will tour again next summer, and the year after the field of its activity will probably be transferred to the continent of Europe. Col. Cody has gone to his estates in Wyoming, where he will remain until Spring, when he will return here and sail for London, to resume his duties and take his ___ as the conspicuous head of the big institution bearing his name. J. A. Bailey will remain in New York City, continuing, as usual, to discharge the multifarious duties attached to his position attached to his position as the sole manager of the Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth, which latter institution, by the way, has no connection with the Wild West. To set many rumors at rest, it is stated here officially that the three large tented shows in which Mr. Baileyis an owner are not associated in any way except that he holds a half interest in the Wild West, and interest in the Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Show, and is sole manager of the Barnum & Bailey Shows."
Notes from the Frank H. Reynolds Big Vaudeville Circus. This show will open its third annual season May 2, at Pepperill, Mass. The show will be twice its former size and every effort will be made by the management to throughly satisfy its thousands of patrons. The roster of the show will be as follows: Frank H. Reynolds, proprietor and manager; Lizzie Essex, high wire performer; Jean Curtis, "tambourine king"; Baldwin Sisters, contortionists, and Pauline Reynolds, bounding rope act. Ross Knowles will again direct our silver cornet band of twelve pieces. Jimmy Keenen is advance agent, and Oliver Kneeland will be property man. The show is in its winter quarters at Welton, Me.
Lucky Bill writes: "I have purchased one of the finest residences and grounds in Quenemo, Kan., which will be my permanent address. A number of performers are also making this their winter quarters, where good cheer reigns supreme."
Harry Dickinson, animal trainer, announces his marriage on Dec. 24, at St. Louis, to Mary Hermann, of St. Paul, Minn.
Walter L. Main notes. Christmas day in the winter quarters . . . This year Mr. Main provided a bountiful turkey dinner, with all the good fixing that go with it . . . Nearly one hundred laborers employed around the winter quarters sat down to the long tables in the dining hall, and when the repast was over an cigars lighted a more contented body of men could not be found. . . . Aside from the dinner, Mr. Main presented every man in winter quarters with a suit of underwear, two pair of socks, a pair of rubber boots and a pair of heavy knit gloves. General agent E. C. Knupp acted as master of ceremonies. Those who know "Ed," can form an idea as to how the men fared. Work around winter quarters is progressing splendidly. Veteran "Dan" Taylor has systematized everything to perfection, and, as usual, will have the show in shape at least two weeks before the opening time. In this he will be materially aided by the car loads of new paraphernalia that is constantly coming in. Much of the show stuff that was out with this show last season has been sold to smaller shows and replace with up to date material. Madames Taylor and ___, assisted by a score of seamstresses, are working daily on the new parade and tournament costumes. They will be entirely new and a pleasing departure from the old time costumes that have for years characterized circus street parades. The menagerie will go out next season in entirely new dens of modern pattern. According to the plans now arranged, it will require six new flats and two new stock cars to carry the added stuff of the show. Mr. Main has called a meeting of his executive staff for the first week in January, when the final details for the 1904 season will be perfected.
Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Show notes. At our winter quarters, Schenectady, N.Y., everything is progressing nicely, and our master mechanic, Jos. Pahl, promises to have all wagons an properties finished long before our opening date. . . . Al. F. Wheeler Jr. is in charge of the ring barn at present, and our trained stock is rapidly being put in shape. We will have seven animal acts of our own, and the talking horse, "Melrose Maid," as a side show feature. Two advance brigades will be run, and nearly all special paper used.
New York Clipper, January 23, 1904, p. 1139. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Chas. E. Griffin, American conjuror, and Mlle. Octavia, snake charmer, open with the Buffalo Bill Show in April.
Notes from the Bostock Hippodrome, Paris. Frank C. Bostock's Wild Animal Arena, after a tempestuous voyage of nineteen days from New York to Paris, France, inaugurated its winter season at the L'Hipo-Palais, rechristened by Mr. Bostock "The Hippodrome," at the beginning of last November. . . . Octavia Griffin, latest American song successes . . . Charles Eldredge Griffin, American illustionist, ventriloquist and mimic . . . Mlle. Octavia, and her pythons, boas, lizards, etc. . . .
New York Clipper, February 6, 1904, p. 1196. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Nick Howard (Cyclo) has perfected a new "startler" in the bicycle line, and will be programmed as one of the features with the Barnum & Bailey Show.
The Great Texas Bill Wild West and World's Best Rough Riders will go out next season under the direction of W. C. Montgomery, who has the past several seasons successfully managed the Montgomery Bros.' "U. T. C." Co. It will be a railroad show, and the equipment, Mr. Montgomery writes, will be of the very best. The paper will be all special, and equal to that put out by the big ones. . . .
Pawnee Bill notes. The advance of the Pawnee Bill Wild West has been increased this season to fifty people. All the bill posters, lithographers, banner men and programmers are members of the union. Our advertising cars are now in the shops being thoroughly overhauled and painted. Our seventy foot silver car will surely set them talking; it will be finer, if possible, than last season. No expense has been spared to make then the most attractive cars on the road. Our paper will be the acme of the printer's art, and we will bill to a finish. The department of publicity will this season if far better than ever before.
Carl Clair, bandmaster of the Barnum & Bailey Shows, will return to New York Feb. _, from London, where he has been spending his vacation since the closing of last season's tour. Mrs. Clair and daughter, Constance, will remain in England for the summer.
Notes from the winter quarters of the Great Floto Shows Circus, at Dallas, Tex. The Floto Shows will take the road the coming season as one of the best equipped railroad shows that money can put together. Messrs. Tammen & Bonfils, of Denver, have spent thousands of dollars to change the show into a real circus, and have surrounded themselves with the best business talent and circus acts that money can engage. The show will consist of __ flat cars, five stock, one elephant and camel car, and three Pullman coaches and combination diner. The advance will include two newly built cars, which are said to be among the finest advance cars ever sent out on the road. There will be fourteen men on the first car, with car manager and press agent, and the second car will include a car manager and ten bill posters. The dimensions of the big canvases that will be used will be 140ft. round top, with two 50ft. middle pieces, and one 30ft. middle piece. The menagerie will be ___ft. round top with four 40ft. middle pieces. The side show will be an 80ft. round tip with two 30ft. middle pieces. The horse tent will be an 80ft. round top with two 30ft. middle pieces. In the menagerie there will be seven elephants, four camels, two Llamas, two zebras, and seventeen cages of rare and costly animals, including four 18ft. ___. There will be sixty-five head of baggage horses, and forty-five head of trained ponies and ring stock. The parade with the show will be grand, as the management has spared no pains to make it one of the handsomest that was ever turned out with a twenty car show. We have let the contract for the cages, a band wagon, four big dens, and a handsome calliope. The managerial department includes: H. H. Tammen and F. Bonfils, propritors; J. H. ___, general agent; Herbert S. Maddy, general manager, assisted by Ben Rosenthal and Frank Tammen; Albert Allen, boss canvas man; Chas. Sanders, head animal man; Chas. Apples, boss hostler; J. C. Parrish, master of transportation; Coleman Bell, superintendent of lot. Among the acts engaged for the big show are: the great St. Leon Family, riders, acrobats, including La Belle St. Leon, equestrienne; John and Nellie Carroll and their big animal act, called "The Carousel of all Nations." This act will be one of the big features with the show. The Carrolls also will do their high school menage acts with their dancing horses. Herr ___ and his troupe of six performing elephants, this being their first trip to this country; Professor D. G. Markel and his troupe of stallions (eight in number); Alexius, the Great, in his act of looping the loop on a wagon wheel; Sagimoto's troupe of Japs (ten in number); the Priskorn Brothers, European trick and fancy bicycle riders, their first appearance in this country; Mlle. ___, with her trained horses, dogs and ponies; Mde. ___, the Jungle queen, with performing leopards, lions, panthers and tigers, all in the same big den; Fred Egner, Whiting Bros., Edward McGraw, Harry Ladell, Rome Elliott, clowns. The performance will be given under the personal direction of Messrs Carroll & Markel. The side show department will be given under the supervision of Ike Shipley. The printing and paper with the show will be strictly first class in every way. The big acts will all be featured, and nothing but special paper will be used with the show. It will be the aim of Messrs. Tammen & Bonfils to try and make the Floto Shows one of the best and handsomest organizations on the road.
New York Clipper, February 13, 1904, p. 1223. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Chas. Johnson has signed with Colorado Grant's Wild West, to do his somersault tight wire act and trap drums.
The Horners, Joe and Alice, are re-engaged for Ringling Bros.' World's Greatest Shows, making their second season with that show.
Chas. W. Lovell, late of the Barnum & Bailey Shows, is touring Pennsylvania with his troupe of glass blowers, to good business. While they were at Kane, Pa., they were entertained by the F. O. E. Mr. Lovell has signed for the coming season with Welsh Bros.' Big New Shows.
Nick Olte and Ben Groutz, acrobats and gymnasts, have signed with John Robinson's Ten Big Shows for the season of 1904, to do their Spanish ring and acrobatic acts.
Walter P. English, letter carrier with the Barnum & Bailey Show is very proud of a new monster bass, that for size, workmanship and quality of tone has no equal. It was made especially for him and it will be one of the features of the music department of the "Greatest Show on Earth" during next season.
Del Fuego has signed with the Campbell Bros.' Show as clown for next season.
Ernest Albrecht, calliope player, of Gentry Bros.' Shows No. 1, has been re-engaged for next season, making his third season with the show.
Harry Clark, principal and novelty advertising clown, has signed with the Walter L. Main Show for next season, making his third season with Mr. Main. He is at his house building a new clown entry for next season.
New York Clipper, February 20, 1904, p. 1236. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Show notes. Prof. Paul B. Jones is the latest arrival at winter quarters. He is keeping the ring warm rehearsing the different animal acts, and incidentally breaking in a bunch of new stock. He will have charge of the dog and pony contingent next season. Edward C. Delano, aerial performers, and the Russell Bros. are among the latest people signed.
The following have signed with the A. H. Reed Shows for the season of 1904: the Four Ketrows (Will, Frank, Frank Jr. and Maud), Siedel and Collins, Bille and Julie Lowe, D. M. Buckley, Lee Grave, F. Hall, Perry Cravens, C. G. Heath, J. D. Griffith, J. G. Buckley and Sim Henry.
Chas. E. Shepard has signed to go ahead of Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows, having charge of second advance wagon, and will open about April 28, in New York State.
Notes from the Great Barlow Show. All are busy about winter quarters. Our dogs, goats and ponies are going to be a strong feature with our show for 1904. Howe and Decker, who have been with us for the past two seasons, and will be with us again, are touring Mississippi and Louisiana, and will be with us in April. Harrie Williams, principal clown, writes he will be here in due time. Frank Girard, leader of orchestra, also writes that he will be with us in a few days. Our new canvas will be shipped from J. E. Goss shortly.
Walter Stanton Jr., "The Giant Dancing Hooster," who made a success in "the Runaways" at the New York Casino last summer, has engaged Edwin Fritz (late clown with Barnum & Bailey's circus for seventeen years) to clown to his novel act with Gentry Bros.' Big Show, being engaged as a star feature for the season.
The Beall Family (three in number) have signed with the John Robinson Ten Big Shows for season of 1904, to do their heavy weight lifting and cannon ball act, and Hattie Beall to do singing and dancing specialties in the concert.
Frank and Albright have been re-engaged for next season with the Walter L. Main New Fashion Plate Shows.
New York Clipper, March 5, 1904, p. 38. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Miles Orton Big Southern Railroad Shows. We are now experiencing some of the unpleasant weather of the South, as we are encountering some very disagreeable rains. We are receiving unstinted praise from the press and public on the merits and cleanliness of our show. We have had the following additions to our roster: S. W. Hopkins, assistant to our advance manager; Philip Harris, Frank Richardson, cornetists and Ray Smith, clarionettist. . . . The roster of the show is as follows: Mrs. Miles Orton, sole proprietress; Gus Fairbanks, general manager; Norman Orton, treasurer; Myron Orton, secretary; Philip Harris, general agent; S. W. Hopkins, advance agent. Performers big show: Norman Orton, principal carrying act and mule hurdle; Myron Orton, wire and trapeze; Gordon Orton, balancing trapeze and cloud swing; Bell Brothers, acrobats and aerialists; Orton Bros., double trapeze; Michael Cahill, cloud swing; Miles Orton, troupe of dogs and goats; Little Iva, two horse and menage act; Orton Children, Eds. Brennan and Master Clarence. The band includes: Henry Snyder, Ray Smith, Victor Clark, Oscar Murphy . . . Side show: Gus Fairbanks, lecturer; Ed. Brennan, Giles Alden, ticket sellers; Ajax, sword swallower; Prof. Rozinsky, musical act and magic; Mlle. Cerita, snake enchantress; La Belle Fay, illusions; Sig. ___, Punch. Concert performers: the Musical Brennan, comedy musical act; Elmer Rockey, black face comedian; Edward Brennan, eccentrique act; Maude Brennan, singing and dancing soubrette; Worland, Orton and Rockey, comedy trio; Dick Richards, superintendent of canvas; Sam Kaufmann, chandeliers; Billy Mitchell, privileges; Mrs. May Cooper, reserved seats, and Giles Alden, advertising solicitor.
Geo. H. Irving, the well known side show man, has been engaged to manage the annex for the Gollmar Brothers' Big Railroad Shows the coming season, and has a number of features new to side shows. He is at present at Haverhill, Mass., for the winter, promoting indoor fairs.
Notes from the winter quarters of the Geo. S. Ely's Big Wagon Show. Everything is in a hustle around the winter quarters on the old fair ground oin Harrisburg, Ill. Every wagon, fifteen in number, will be newly painted in red and gold, and everything will be overhauled from stake to bale ring. Our stock, thirty-five head, are in the pink of condition. Geo. S. Ely and his two assistants are kept busy from morning until night. We will have ready for our opening day, in addition to our list of ring stock, three new ponies, two mules, two goats, twenty-three head of dogs, and these, in connection with our big aerial and acrobatic feats, which, we have already engaged, will make this one of the best and stronget twenty-five cent shows in the country. We will carry big top, 80ft. B. top, 45ft. dresser, 30x60 horse tent, 18x26 cook tent, 50ft. R. top for side show, with six 32x14ft. ___ paintings. We have two bands, and six people to look after the dressing rooms. Prof. Doc Foster's band of solo musicians will be the feature in our big parade. Clarence Auskings will be in advance, with two assistants. Shorty Blair, boss hostler, will have four assistants. Henry Dobel has the big top, with eight assistants. The show will open the latter part of April.
Notes from Brad Bros.' New United Shows. Things have been quite lively at the new winter quarters in Reading for the past few weeks, and everything is being put in the very best of shape for the grand opening of these new railroad shows. During the past week several new wagons have arrived. The painters and other workingmen are rushing their work so as to have all in readiness in time. The winter quarters is in charge of James Bard. This will be one of the best equipped shows on the road the coming season. The programme will be large, and varied, and many new features and novelties will be placed before the public by these young and energetic showmen. Prof. ___'s Grand Concert Band will furnish the musical programme, having been especially engaged. Ed. Bard has just returned from the West, where he has purchased several new cars to enlarge the show train, and has also purchased some fine horses. The show will be double the size of last season.
Lew Nichols will be director of the side show and concert with Buckskin Bill's Wild West Shows for the season of 1904, making his third season with the show. He has engaged Prof. W. Jacobs and a band of ten pieces and fourteen jubilee singers, . . .
Notes from Canada Frank's R. R. Shows. . . . We will add a few more lengths of seats, cut out the stage in the big show and stick more in the regular one ring circus of the olden times, only with new acts. The people signed up to the present are: Foster Glasscock and wife, contortionists, traps and comedy . . .
Sun Brothers' New Railroad Show notes. We will open our season at Norfolk, Va. The executive staff for 1904 is as follows: George Sun, manager; Pete Sun, general agent; E. H. Sun, treasurer; Harry R. Overton, general superintendent; Will St. Auburn, car manager; Dan Leon, equestrian director; Harry Reeves, animal trainer; Prof. John Shelley, band director; Frank Marvin, in charge of all horses and ponies; C. J. Cherry, superintendent of all canvas; Frank White, master of transportation . . . Other members that have signed are: Dan Leon and wife, ___ Stall and wife, Hardell Bros., Jas. Hart, the Great ___, Lawrence Anchor, Marion Bros., Alf. Bruce and wife, Billy Reed, Chas. Hillbert and wife, A. S. Robbins, Walter Fletcher, Three Bros. Millette, Harry Walker, Geo. S. Craven, F. A. Church, Eugene Welker, Al. Williams, MacTaren, ___ Stafford, Ike Shermer, H. H. Allen, Clarence Hedley, Bert Moore, Sherwell Rice, Julian Guy, Fred Bowers, Martin Miligan . . . Cornelius Gibbins, J. L. Gray, Billy Randolf, Vernaid Ross, Morris Vincence, Harry Gorden, John Newman, James K. Anderson . . . Allie Wolford, Lee Hines, John Black, Ed. Fritzinger, Lester G. Dill, Harvey Craven, B. S. Torbett, Phillip, Walter Lewis, Frederick Haines, James Sullivan, Fred Morris, Frank McGuyer and Jack Bledsoe. Pete Sun has palce a contract for all new flat and stock cars, and has purchased a fine 65ft. Pullman sleeper, to be used by the performers and musicians. We will have the finest train of cars of its size in the show business. Riding acts and mixed animal acts will be featured. There will be one elephant, one camel, a pair of lions and some small animals in our collection. All gray horses and spotted ponies. The show intends to make a very long season. Everything in winter quarters is moving along splendidly.
Frank Leopold Show notes. The following people have signed for the coming season: Myers and Rosa, jugglers; Walter Wentworth, the old contortionist; ___ and Burns, comedy acrobats and barrel jumpers; Henry Hall, baton manipulator; Albert Gaston, clown; Melnotte and ___, sketch, and Nellie Burns, serio comic, buck and wing dancer. Everything is getting in nice shape for next season.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Consolidated Railroad Shows. General manager Frank A. Robbins returned last week from the West, where he purchased two carloads of heavy draught horses. The animals have arrived at winter quarters, and are now being conditioned under the watchful eye of boss hostler Jack Forepaugh, assisted by the men under his direction. A few days ago Mr. Sautlee added twenty-four mroe canines to his string, which now numbers ___ head. With the near approach of Spring, all plans have been completed for an early opening, and not only will the above shows be greatly enlarged and improved, but several surprise features will be exhibited as well. One of the latter will be found in the menagerie, and as it will be the only one of its kind in this country, a genuine sensation is promised. Three of America's largest printing houses are getting out all special paper for Mr. Sautelle, and if the filled orders are like the samples recently received, our wall stand and window work will be as flashy and attractive as has ever been produced. . . .
___ Lewis has charge of the advertising department with Norris & Rowe this season, and arrived in San Jose, Cal., last week. Messrs. Norris and Rowe and general agent Warner own beautiful cottages and orange groves in Santa Clara Coutny, and Mr. Lewis will also invest in an orange orchard and join the San Jose colony while off the road.
New York Clipper, March 12, 1904, p. 62. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
E. C. Bond has signed for the season of 1904 with Andrew Downie's new and enlarged circus, which opens April 30, at Medina, N.Y.
Walt Leslie, now business manager Gus Hill's "Happy Hooligan" Co., will be the assistant side show manager to Harry Wilson with Pawnee Bill's Wild West Show during the coming season.
W. W. Power, business representative of the Walter L. Main Shows, sailed for England Feb. 17. While abroad he will visit principal cities in England, Germany and France.
Welsh Bros.' "winter quarters" notes. The usual nearing of Spring time activity is now in evidence at the circus depot of the above firm. The new baggage and parade vehicles are all completed and have received their dress of varnish and paint embellishing. This department of the "Newest Great" will certainly compare favorably with any show of its size and class. All of the harness to be used this season is new, and this, with the choice selection of horses and ponies (one hundred and ten in number), the finest ever handled by this show, will prove to be an attractive adjunct to the new feature street parade. Equestrian director Cousins has prepared several new trained animal acts for the "big show" entertainment, and is also hard at work placing the finishing touches to the programme, which will consist of forty-six acts, embracing a diversity of high calibre equestrian and arenic displays, particularly noticeable for the absence of "fill-in" acts. Among the notable engagements for the coming season are: the Miles Orton Troupe, equestrians and bicyclists; the Brothers Melrin, feature acrobats; West and Zants, in a novelty act; "Santell," sensational strong man; the Flying Valenteens, aerialists; Chas. Fasig, star high diver; Prof. Felton's troupe of performing seals. The comedy contingent is headed by Max Hugo, assisted by J. Frank Mackey, Chas. Clark, T. J. Madden, George Colby, Harry West, Comical Brown, Don Williams and William Pearl. Mr. and Mrs. Jack Cousins will appear in a series of entirely original feature riding numbers. Owing to the continued illness of Monsieur ___, the spectacular production of "Babylon" will be abandoned for the coming season; instead a series of magnificant statuary tableaux, depicting events of the Japan-Russian war will be presented. Twenty persons will participate in this novel innovation, which will be staged by the famous Niblo Troupe. The harmony end of the show will include: Gregory's Royal Marine band (twenty-one men); Prof. Louis Gilbert's Afro-American Band (ten men); Ronule's Scotch Bag Pipers, and Prof. __ Weston, calliopist. Side show manager Lee has engaged an excellent programme of vaudeville talent for his department, with the Belmar Sisters, refined lady minstrels, and Mlle. Bachwaldo's troupe of performing lions as the special drawing cards. Mr. Lee will have an entirely new frontage of eye entrancing paintings, and he declares that his "Supplementary Shows" will beat anything of its kind on the road this coming season. Geo. M. Forepaugh, superintendent, and Philip Harris, special agent, are new members of the business people department. The season is carded to open very early in April, at Gordonville, a suburb of Lancaster, Pa.
Frances Herbert, who for the past six years has been known as Herbert Marvelle, is no longer connected with the Three Marvelles, but has resumed his own name, and recently appeared at Proctor's Fifth Avenue Theatre, in an act as a gigantic bullfrog. He has signed with the Great Walter L. Main Shows for the coming season.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Consolidated Railroad Shows. Mr. Sautelle is negotiating for a band of twelve blooded Indians, with four squaws and three papooses, for use in the Wild West portion of his shows. While not a red skin, the "Guv'nor" is nevertheless and Indian, and the other evening was the principal speaker at a banquet given by the Adirondack Tribe 280, Improved Order of Red Men, of Homer, N.Y. The feast continued into the wee small hours. Driving home with the mercury below zero, Mr. Sautelle contraced a severe attack of grip, which confined him to the house for several days. Nero, the Bengal tiger, which nearly killed trainer Reeves last Spring, will appear on top of one of the dens in our daily street parade the coming season. Our smallest elephant, Babe, a zebra and a pony are being taught a unique act, which will be featured. Manager Robbins is expected at winter quarters within the next few days, and upon his arrival the opening date will definitely decided. Nearly all of the riders engaged for 1904 are scheduled to arrive during the present month.
Notes from the Seibel Bros.' World's Greatest Dog and Pony Show. A visit to Watertown, Wis., where the winter quarters of Seilbel Bros. are located, will convince the most skeptical that Seibel Bros. are preparing to put out the largest and best show they have ever directed. Scores of people are at work, and the bosses are all busy in their various departments. Six new sixty foot cars have been purchased, and the canvas, harness and many wagons will be entirely new. Nearly three carloads of Shetland ponies have been added. The coming Summer will prove conclusively that Seibel Bros. are making rapid strides, and are well entitled to be placed in the list of really good shows. Mr. Emerson, the general manager, is on the go all the time. Mr. Hicks, the general agent, has his plans completed for an active campaign. The service of Prof. A. ___ have been secured. He is one of the bet dog and pony trainers. He has the stock now in charge, and is getting them ready for the road. The Seibel Bros. have a sixty-one horse act. Our opening day is May 5, 1904.
Notes from Bonheur Bros. The newly built quarters of the Golden Mascot Show are commodious as well as convenient. The living rooms are amply sufficient for the accommodation of the people. The buildings are quite large, and contain rooms for carving and painting, and others for repair work and machinery for building wagons. Several new wagons are under construction for season of 1904. All performers have been engaged, and most of the working people have been contracted for. The show, newly organized and equipped, will open in Augusta about May 1. A lake has been excavated on the land owned by the Bonheur Bros., and a ___ windmill has just arrived, and will be erected with a strong force pump for pumping the water through a three inch pipe to supply the lake with water, which will be stocked with fish and various mosses and aquatic plants to supply the finny tribe with luxuries. The buildings are now receiving their coat of paint, and the living rooms are under the hands of expert plasterers, who are giving them a marble finish. Clyde Rialdo is principal clown. The Rialdos and the Wilmarth Family have signed. Fred Voss, comedy juggler and clown, has joined.
Eddie Lamont, musical expert, has closed a thirty-five weeks' engagement in the South with the Southern Shows, and will join the Eisenbarth-Henderson Show April 4.
William Irwin writes: "The Irwins are not engaged, as was reported, but will lay off for a few weeks at Shreveport, La. Kitty May Irwin, contortionist, was persented with a gold chain and locket by the band and performers of the Hoag Show, also a gold ring by Mrs. Hoag. I am doing a pyramid of bottles on the head balancing trapeze. Mlle. Irwin is doing some new tricks with a bicycle on the wire."
Will F. Newlan, late solo clarionettist of Pryor's Band, of St. Joseph, Mo., has signed as solo clarionettist with John Robinsons Ten Big Shows.
Charmion is engaged for all next summer as a feature of Mackay's European Circus at St. Louis.
D. Philip Phillips informs us of the death of Mrs. Sarah Dingess, wife of R. S. Dingess, who was for many years general agent of the Adam Forepaugh Shows. She was eighty-two years old. The interment was at Oak Ridge Cemetery, where her body was placed by the side of her husband.
H. Franklin has the privileges with the Great Floto Show next season. Ernest Hood, __ Martin and Ed. Franklin will be butchers.
New York Clipper, March 19, 1904, p. 86. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the McDonald Bros.' New United Shows. We will open about April __, with thirty head of stock and twelve wagons. The show will carry an 80ft. tent, with 40ft. middle piece; a 40x__ side show; 30x50 horse tent; 20x30 cook tent, and 30ft. dressing tent, all new, from stake to bale ring. Received tents March 4, also advance wagons and carryall. James Brackman will run all of the privileges, and will put on a strong sideshow. We will feature a 75ft. high dive, by Prof. St. Elmo, for outside exhibition. The Rydon Troupe of aerialists will be the feature of the big show. We have signed the Kiliam Family, seven in number, for the big show and concert. W. H. Quinnett will have charge of the advance.
Happy Bill Carroll, knockabout talking and singing clown, and his wife, Cornelia Carroll, have signed with Hargreaves' Big Railroad Show for next season, for thirty weeks.
Bob H. Fry has signed as general clown, and also to work in the concert, with Bard Bros.' Show for the coming season, making his second season with that show.
Notes from John Ellis' Great Eastern Show. Everybody is hustling around winter quarters, getting things in shape for our opening, which occurs the lattr part of April, at Tower City, Pa. We will have one of the best two ring shows on the road. We carry about forty-five people, and considerable stock, all broken for the ring. Mr. Ellis has engaged Prof. Chas. H. Brooke and his military band of fifteen pieces, which will be a special feature of the show.
Tony Conley, formerly of Mazier and Conley, and Leo Robbs, formerly of Robbs and Powell, have joined hands. They are engaged by the Forepaugh & Sells Show for the coming season, to do their singing and talking act in the concert.
Notes from the Nickel Plate Shows. We opened our twenty-third season at Valdosta, Ga., Feb. 27, with the weather and business excellent. Following is the complete roster of the show: C. D. McIntyre, general agent; Wm. Glasby, advertising agent; John Andrews Jr., treasurer and press agent; Geo. Steele, adjuster; Fred Hall, equestrian director; Bert King, bandmaster; Tom Powers, master of transportation; Chas. Rhodes, superintendent; Charles O. Palmer, boss hostler; Harry Cochran, steward. Performers: Armstrong Family (6), Jennier Family (5), Millette Family (3), Armer Family (5), Harry La Sage, Geo. Jennier, Billy Miner, Claude Orton, Arthur Hinman, Tom Powers, Chas. Fick, La Delle, and Harry ___. Frank Shafer, Jas. Keenan, John Kelley and Cal. Weaver, in charge of privileges. Messrs. Harris and Mr. Wilson continue in the management. The show has been entirely refitted and painted, and presents the best appearance it has made since 1898.
C. S. Primrose writes that he closed his "Uncle Si Haskins" Co. at Norfolk, Neb., March 12, after a fifteen weeks' successful season. Mr. Primrose has been engaged as railroad contractor with Gollmar Bros. Railroad Showsl and his duties with them will commence April 1.
Billy Reid and Chas. Creighton have joined hands, and have been re-engaged for the coming season with Sun Bros.' Railroad Show, to do clowning, and their singing and dancing act in the concert.
Notes. The latest additions to Andrew Downie's new big one ring circus are: Jacobs and Wilson, Marriott Bros., George and Georgie, J. D. Cramer, Jack Hampton, Girard Leon, with his singing and acting donkeys; Harry Reeves, animal trainer; C. E. Chamberlain, J. C. Thorne, Geo. C. Moyer, Dave Ricardo, Gibb ___, S. Edw. Corbette and wife, G. W. Christie, Louis Washburn, Robt. Leister, W. B. Russell, Madden and Lemay. Rehearsals commence April 25. Show opens at Medina, May 30.
Mrs. William Todt presented her husband, the proprietor and manager of the William Todt Show, with a baby boy on March 9, at their home in Snow Hill.
Jottings from Sig. Sautelle's Consolidated Shows. Long ago Sig. Sautelle, who is a graduated "typo" from one of the Glens Falls, N.Y. newspaper offices, promised himself that when his circus employed 300 or more persons he would provide a plant from which would be issued a daily paper, upon the show grounds. As he has engaged about 400 people for the Summer of 1904, he has decided to launch his pet hobby upon the stormy sea of journalism, under the title of "Sig Sautelle's Tent City Evening News." The first number will appear the afternoon of our opening day, and will be a four column folio. Its columns will be devoted solely to the interests of the show people. ___'s advance guard having arrived, our 200 or more horses are given road exercise daily, and are rapidly rounding into form for the summer campaign. Orders have been place for all new harness for the ponies, parade and baggage teams. The former will be as flashy as money can buy. Several new animals for the menagerie arrived during the past week. Our two new advance cars are about completed, and they are to be models of beauty, convenience and comfort. E. Chipman and Billy Clark, of West's Minstrels, were recent visitors. The former will be one of Mr. Sautelle's employees the ensuing summer.
Notes from Stygles' Circus. Winter quarters at Cambridge, Vt., present a busy appearance these days. Only a few weeks left now to get ready for our opening, the first week in May. Everything is being built brand new, and manager L. W. Shipman has a large force of men at work, the result of whose labors under his direction will enable him to present to the public one of the neatest, brightest and best equipped wagon shows ever seen in New England. The parade wagons and trapping are being given special attention, and a number of strong attractions have been engaged for the "big show," although the roster is not yet complete, as Mr. Shipman is considering the merits of several feature acts offered him. To the sixty head of horses and ponies wintered at Mr. Stygles' farm, thirty more head of baggage stock will be added, and ten more cages of animals (twenty-five cages in all). The show will carry a one hundred foot big top, with a fifty foot middle piece, an eighty foot menagerie top, a fifty foot side show top with a thirty foot middle piece, three horse tents and two cook tents. C. N. Stygles, proprietor; I. W. Shipman, manager; and I. C. Beck, general agent. Prof. White will manager the side show, and has already secured a line of novelties that will insure big receipts for the "Kid Show."
Notes from Bard Bros.' New United Shows. During the past week everybody has been hard at work at the winter quarters in Reading, and everything is about completed for the grand opening in April. The painters are putting on the finishing touches, and the parade outfit is all ready. Many new and novel features will be introduced by these progressive young showmen. Their new canvas arrived last week, and is of the very best make, and will be thoroughly water proof.
C. A. Bonney, of Bonney's Band of Highland bagpipers, drummers, and Scotch dancers, writes: "I signed with the Ringling Bros. for the season of 1904 over two months ago. This will correct statements that hve appeared contrary to the above."
Norman McGriff has signed as principal singing and talking clown with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows for the coming season.
New York Clipper, March 26, 1904, pp. 94, 95, 104. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Roster of the Miles Orton Show. Mrs. Miles Orton, sole owner; Norma Orton, manager; Myron Orton, treasurer; Gordon Orton (who goes with the Robinson Show), Michael Cahill, Clarence Orton, Iva Orton,Mrs. Chas. Cooper, Joe and Chas. Bell, allof whom will join the Welsh Bros. Show; Ed Brennan and wife, Prof. Chas. Snyder's cornet band, including C. E. Worland, Chas. Murphy, Ed Landon, Jose Rosinsky, Ed. Rocky, Billy Rash, Frank Richardson, V. O. Clark, W. Smith, Wm. Mitchell, Paul Healon, John Maxwell, Eli Landon, Dick Wells. Other performers: Mrs. Le Von, Baby Le Von, Mike Mitchell. Side show: Gus Fairbanks, manager; Mrs. Fairbanks, Fay Fairbanks, Madame Cerita, Willard, the wizard; Millie Decosta, Prof. Ajax, "Jose" Rosinsky, ___ Rhinelander and ten men on canvas. Phil Harris, advance, with two assistants. We closed at Suffolk, Va., Thursday, March 17, St. Patrick's Day. Mrs. Miles Orton had her arm broken at Elberton, Ga., on the Sea Board Air Line. However, this railroad company has offered to settle all claims. Gus Fairbanks goes with the Sautelle Show as general superintendent. The Miles Orton Shows will tour the South again the comming Fall and Winter.
Notes from Buffalo Bill's Wild West. The opening date has been decided upon, and the "calls" have gone forth for the members of the Wild West to assemble at Stoke-on-Trent, where we begin our season Monday, April 25. Harvey Watkins has gone back to his first love, Barnum & Bailey. Although Mr. Watkins will be greatly missed with the Wild West, his place is in efficient hands, Chas. S. Wells succeeding him as contracting press agent. Rehearsals begin at Stoke, April 18. The piece de resistance, "Custer's Last Battle." Posey and Platt, master of stock and superintendent of canvas, with their lieutenants, already have everything in their respective departments well under way at Stoke. Chas. E. Griffin, of the privilege department, says the concert and side shows will be the best ever seen with a tented organization, and embrace some startling surprises. We have had a mild winter, but an exceedingly wet one. We have the finest line of printing this season ever carried by this establishment, and general agent Clarence L. Dean, with his staff of assistants, will have begun their labors before this letter reaches the Clipper.
Notes from the Great Hulburd Shows. We will open the season of 1904 in Camden, N.J., April 30. The staff: Byron N. Hulburd, general manager; Sam McFlynn, assistant manager, and J. B. Bally, manager of side show and concert. The following people have signed for the season: Prof. Martin Singer and his band of twenty men, the Bickett Family, Five Flying Banvards, Henry Ross, perpendicular 'cycle wall; Cooper's troupe of 'cyclists, the Flying Zenos, Ray Tortunes, Earl V. Stoehr, the La Places, Nebraska Bill and wife, Geo. Hooker, Anna Hooker, John J. Morris, Myron Baker and his troupe of 'cyclists, Prof. Bristol and his troupe of ponies, Geo. Valentine, Emma Valentine, Morello and Garvice, and their troupe of dogs, goats and mules; the Simpsons, Ray Butler, J. Duffy, T. M. Gray, Jack Kuhns, and thirty Indians. Managers Hulburd and McFlynn will introduce many new features in the circus and wild west, among them "Custer's Last Fight, or The Battle of the Big Horn."
Notes from the Cap. Stewart Vaudeville Circus. We are about ready for our opening, which will take place in Fort Wayne, Ind., on April 30. The following people have signed: the Aerial Browns, James O'Neill, Billy Weber, May Weber, Joe Hoover, Ed. Hollis, Fannie Day, Ed. Magner, Sam McCarty, Al. Decker, Cora Decker, Harry Decker, Geo. McNot, Clarence Springer, Chas. Watterman, boss canvas man, with five men; Sam Hoke, boss props, with one man; H. Shephard, general agent, with two men, and ___ Hollis, charge of cook tent, with two helpers. All of our last season's people have signed but Walter Lyons. Our big tent will be 60x90 foot; the cook tent will be 20x40; the side show tent is 30x60 foot, and the candy top is 12x18 foot. We are building six lengths of eight tier, foot and back rest reserved seats. James Beattie is hustling day and night getting the show ready for the opening. He has engaged some good people both for the big show and also for the side show. Mr. Beattie's little daughter has just recovered from a spell of sickness.
Notes from Sun Brothers' World's Progressive Railroad Shows. We have signed B. L. Bowman to organize and manager our vaudeville annex, and all privileges, which will be new and as good as the best. We will also have all new reserve and blue seats, ten tiers high, and seven new wagons are on their way to Norfolk. Dan Leon is making great progress with his ring and high school horses, and promises to have them perfected for our opening day. All our cars are contracted for, and will be completed by April 10. Cooley Brothers, of Strasburg, Va., have purchased a complete wagon show, excepting horses, from Sun Bros., and intend to open early in April, making an old route.
Billy Fields, comedian, has signed with the Walter L. Main Shows for the coming season, to work in the concert in his black fact act, wooden shoe dancing and comic songs. The show opens April 23.
Notes from Craner's Vaudeville Circus. We are ready for the opening, April 23. Will have eight all new wagons and fine horses and a new top, 45x70. We will carry ten people, and will play Michigan only. Ben Craner, owner and manager; Mrs. Ben Craner, Master Russell Craner, Freda Clever, George Telmass, Fred Leonzo, Sheridan Craner, Con Mosler and Carl Eithbridge. We intend to make this our banner season.
The Aerial Smiths, sensational trapeze performers, have just closed eighteen weeks in vaudeville, and open March 30 with the Ringling Bros.' Shows. They are booked solid to April, 1905, including a two years' contract with that show.
The Two Jenaros have signed for the tenting season of 1904 with C. H. Knight's Mammoth Twenty-five Cent Circus, to do their juggling, wire walking, singing and clown acts.
Notes from Andrew Downie's One Ring Show. Most of the wagons are finished. They have been highly varnished and finely decorated. Orders from the "governor" were given to use pure gold leaf for the ticket wagons, band wagons, mysterious band wagon, calliope, tableau wagons and chariots. Much time and pains have been expended on the side show front, with expensive banners, ticket wagons and the large electric "dime," with fifty-seven electric bulbs. It is a brilliant affair by day, and gorgeous by night. It is a perfect facsimilie of a dime, and reads: "Admission 10 cents, one dime." Harry Reeves, the trainer, is putting on a seventy horse act. He says he is going to put on a lot of new business this season, which he has held in reserve for some time. A twenty pony drill and the riding tigers will eclipse anything before shown by this show.
Notes from the Great Texas Bill Wild West and World's Best Rough Riders. Preparations are actively going forward at the winter quarters for the approaching opening. W. U. Montgomery, the manager, has just recently purchased from Augustus Jones all the parade and baggage wagons, also part of the rolling stock used the past season with the Indian Bill Wild West. A car load of Western bronchos have been shipped in from Wyoming, and almost every day sees an addition to the already long list of draft stock, which will be composed of all large dapple grays. The arena canvas is now nearing completion. Augustus Jones will have exclusive charge of all the privileges. The show will be run on a clean, up to dat method. Some of the best riders, ropers and Western celebrities have been engaged, and everything promises this to be one of the best and finest equipped newly organized shows of 1904.
J. S. Kritchfield, bandmaster, and C. H. Cooper, musician, of the John H. Sparks Shows, were initiated, March 5, into the B. P. O. Elks, by Lake City (Fla.) Lodge, No. 893, as a favor to Tampa Lodge, No. 708. Lake City Lodge attened the night performance in a body.
Karl E. Johnson, saxophonist, with the Wagner Dur, has signed for the coming season with Robinson's Shows.
Wm. De Mott, equestrian, has signed for the coming season with John Robinson's Ten Big Shows, making his third season with that organization.
Dick Scovill, who had the side show tickets last season with the Main Circus, has not the Union News office at Danville, Ill.
Johnny Reinman has been re-engaged as ticket seller with the Main Show for the coming season.
Art Hoffman, coon shouter, will be with the Main Show for 1904.
Bill Elliott has returned to his home in Pittsburg. He will be boss butcher with the Main Show the coming season, making this seventh season.
Malverne, the contortionist and gymnast, has signed for this season with Andrew Downie's new and enlarged circus, which opens April 30, at Medina, N.Y.
The Robertos will join the Gollmar Bros.' Circus this season, to do their impalement act, in which they will be featured.
New York Clipper, April 9, 1904, p. 142. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Pawnee Bill's Wild West. The bookings for the privilege department are about completed: C. H. Gilbertson will look after the candy stand department, Eugene Berry will have charge of the privilege sleeping and dining cars, Mr. Wilson will give her personal attention to the side show and concert, with Walt. M. Leslie to assist him on the openings and announcements, and W. C. Fleming and Harry Cing Mars will hold forth on the ticket boxes. The side show attractions are novel and of varied character, consisting of the following attractions: the trained monkey, "Counsel" the second; the he wears clothes, walks upright, sits a a table, eats with a knife and fork, uses finger bowls and a napkin, and finished by lighting and smoking a pipe. In strange contrast with this almost human chimpanzee, we have Cisco, who strangely resembles the ape family; six Albinos, who will occupy a gold and white tableaux wagon on parade; ten Singhalese, who are en route from Ceylon, India. They will also bring a number of different attractions Pawnee Bill has secured for the Great Far East department; also the Sundhoos Troupe of Hindoo magicians, three in number; five boomerang throwers, South Sea Island Joe and wife, Jerry Thompson, cowboy whittler; Geo. Sevasseur, strong man; Woods and Aurio, bag punchers and jugglers; Mrs. H. G. Wilson, mind reader; Trixie Riderico, snake charmer; and Al. Holman's troupe of eleven jubilee singers. Gregory's band of ten pieces will furnish the music. Geo. Aherne will have charge of the canvas.
Items from Welsh Bros.' quarters. The announcement has been made to the public in our vicinity that the "grand opening day" will take place on Thursday afternoon, April 14. The bill cars will lelave quarters in a few days, to extol the merits of our latest in the tenting line. Much brand new advertising material will be used and distributed in a lavish manner. The horses and ponies, which are in the capable hands of boss hostler F. A. Smith, are in prime condition, and certainly a better looking lot of stock has never appeared with any of the smaller shows. A fourteen black horse band wagon team and a twenty pony calliope team will be among the prominent equine features of the street parade. All new harness and wardrobe of the finest make has been provided. Charles Mitchell, a well known railroad man, has signed as chief trainmaster; he will have twelve cars under his supervision. The Sisters Andre and Levello are new bookings for the big top performers. F. A. Robbins Jr. will have the candy stands and light privileges.
Blanche Latelle and Harry N. Hale will work double again this season in their original acrobatic act. One of the new features is a thirty-two foot dive from an eighteen foot perch, through a knifed hoop. They open with the Forepaugh Show.
Notes from La Mont Bros.' winter quarters. Everything around the quarters puts one in mind of a busy bee hive, as we are getting things in shape for our opening, with occurs at Salem, Ill., on April 30. We have just received twenty new wagons, and we start out with forty of the finest wagons ever seen with a wagon show. We will carry between sixty and seventy-five people, and will have a side show in connection. Our manager C. R. La Mont, and general agent Fred Mackintosh are very busy with our route and new paper. We will play Illinois, Indiana and some Southern States.
Notes from Augustus Jones' winter quarters, Clifton Forge, Va. Mr. Jones has sold his Indian Bill Wild West outfit to Montgomery Bros., of Boone, Ia. Mr. Jones will have two small shows out by rail this season. E. H. Jones will manage the No. 1 show, and Dock Lano has been engaged to manage the No. 2 show. Both shows will open at Clifton Forge. Mr. Jones also has the side show and all the privileges with the Texas Bill Wild West, of Boone, Ia.
Notes from Sun Brothers' World's Progressive Railroad Shows. Have secured the Great Hill Family of acrobats and the famous Hardell Hart Trio, aerial bar experts. Geo. Sun Jr. will introduce a new two pony act, and Mrs. Jessie Leon will introduce her high school horses. H. C. Seckelman is decorating the parade wagons. Big shipment of show property are being received almost daily. B. L. Bowman, our manager of the vaudeville annex, is due here April 1. Some big animals are due here early in April. Indications are that Sun Brothers will have one of the swellest little shows on the market this coming campaign.
Eddie Jackson goes with the No. 1 Gentry Bros.' Shows again this season. This will be Mr. Jackson's third season with the above show as contracting agent.
Bell and Henry write that they have just accomplished a new trick. Mr. Henry does twenty flip flaps on a table, while Mr. Bell does a complete double somersault over him. They go with the Forepaugh & Sells Circus this season.
Notes from Beattie's Great American R. R. Shows. This show is being built in Ft. Wayne, Ind., where the Beatties have lived for several years. The show is owned by Col. H. Beattie; James W. Beattie is the manager, and has no connection whatsoever with any other show. The colonel has leased the Trear house moving shops, in which the show is being built, painted and finished. The contract for cars was let to the Indiana Car and Equipment Co., of Peru, Ind., and will be delivered at Ft. Wayne early in April. The show will move in two cars, and go East. The people are mostly all engaged with the exception of a few performers and some of the band. The Donaldson Lithograph Co. will furnish the show with paper. J. W. Nedro, of Millersburg, O., will have charge of the advance. Phil McEntree will be superintendent; Al. Mastiff will have charge of the side show, and Ed. McElroy will be equestrian director. Beattie's Great American Shows will open in Ft. Wayne April 30.
Wm. J. Irwin and family have joined the H. C. Lang Circus for the tenting season.
Phil E. Keeler, comedian, dancer and cornetist, late of the "Uncle Hex" Co., and recovered from an illness and joined hands with his brother Leon, to do a musical act. They are engaged for this season with the Walter L. Main Show.
Geo. Baynton has signed with the Great Hulburd Shows for the coming season. T. J. Oatman and his trained ponies, Wm. Tessier, novelty wire act, and Marvelous Melville have also signed with this show.
Percy B. Karper writes that he has signed with the Gollmar Bros. Circus.
T. H. Ford has signed with Texas Bill's Wild West for the season.
Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Show. This show goes out again this season (making its fifteenth), under canvas. So far we have the following people: A. F. Tuttle, proprietor; Mrs. A. F. Tuttle, manager; Ed. Thardo, grotesque contortion and knife impalement; Nellie Thardo, troupe of trained dogs; Master Paul Thardo, doing a neat contortion act; Jessie Troy, contortionist; Jack Hunt, singing and dancing comedian. Jack Hunt and Miss Troy have had a new sketch written for them, which they will do in the concert, entitled "Father, You Were a Rummie, of How a Performer Won Out." This should prove a success, as it is true to life. Martha Sheridan, juggling; Dine and Neiser, acrobats; J. D. Moore and wife, violin and piano, and Ben C. Firnin, advance agent.
Notes from the Bayliss Big Sensation Show. We have had all our wagons built to order, and we will be ready to open April 30, with all new tents and plenty of good horses. Sam L. Bayliss is owner and manager.
Mackay's European Circus will be located during the World's Fair at Handian's Park, St. Louis, one of the most beautiful parks in the West, situated in the centre of the city, with every line of cars passing it, and a capacity for 50,000 people. Mackay's European Circus is announced as one of the strongest ring entertainments ever organized in this country. Mlle. Charmion is the headliner, and Riccobono's horses, and Amelia Feeley, equestrienne, are special features. Other potent attractions will be: the Oroso Family of riders, from Circus Renz; the Clown Troupe Schuman, Iota's Troupe of Japs, and Fred Leslie's dogs. The Monterays, sensational bar performers, now with the Orrin Bros. Circus, Mexico, will make their first appearance in this country. Van Cleve, Pete and Ducrow, burlesque clown and pantomime performers, and the O'Brien Family of acrobats are also engaged. The principal feature will be a spectacular production, by 200 people, of the Berlin Witner Water Sensation, entitled "The Ice Witch." The music will be furnished by a military band of seventy pieces.
Notes from C. H. Knight's winter quarters. We will open the last week in April or the first week in May, at Dunkirk, O. The following people have signed for the season: the Famous Gilden Family, character, comedy and singing and dancing specialties; the Jeneros, juggling, wire walking, singing and clown acts; the Sykes Bros., barrel jumpers and acrobats; the Treeters, light and heavy balancing, bag punching and slide for life; Edward C. Delano, aerial wonder; Madame Cordella, in her bounding rope act; Forest De Cleo Snyder, aerial performer and juggler; Prof. Fahl, leader of band, with eight mouthpieces and two drums. This show will put up a fine parade, carrying twenty white horses and a fine band wagon. Everything is newly painted, and ready for the season of 1904.
Prof. Al. Gorman has purchased the Thomas & Pearl Complete Shows. The Thomas' have signed with the Bard Bros. United Shows, to do their sword cutting, fire king and sword swallowing act, and singing turns.
W. E. L. Reeger has signed for the band with Sig. Sautelle's Shows.
The Rexos write: "We have gone to fill a four weeks' engagement with Orrin Bros.' Circus, at City of Mexico. Will return May 1, to open on Shayne's park circuit."
Texas Jack's Circus, at present in South Africa, offers the following programme: Ricards, White Deer, Donnie, jockey act, Ajax, contortionist; the Dierkes, Indian sack and barrel mystery; Eric Ward, rough rider; the Deer Family, Texas Jack, Thos. Yelding, horse act; Tony and Alvarez, clowns; Violet Welby Cooke, and McCloud, lariat thrower.
Richards, hoop roller and foot juggler, has been engaged as a feature for five weeks, to open early in April, with the James Grimsley London Shows, at Pittsburg.
The Seymours, after a pleasant two weeks vacation at their home, Johnson Park, Buffalo, N.Y., have signed with the Lowery Bros.' Circus, commencing April 18.
C. M. B. Huss, formerly a trombonist with the Walter L. Main and Welsh Bros.' Shows, has been working in San Francisco since June, 1903.
Clarence Cushing has signed with Geo. S. Ely's One Ring Circus. He will be general agent, with two assistants. The show opens April 19.
H. F. Burton has signed for the season with B. L. Bowman's side show, which will be the principal annex with Sun Bros.' Railroad Shows this summer. This will be his second season with Mr. Bowman.
Frank and Ida Williams have signed for this season with the Barnum Show.
Roster of the advance of Buckskin Bill's Wild West Show. Harry W. Semon, general agent; Chas. Ellis, contracting agent; Geo. Combs, special agent; W. E. Sands, manager advertising car No. 1, Frank McCormick, boss bill poster. Bill posters of car No. 1: Pat Murphy, J. A. Johnson, Sam Wiles, Chas. Cleveland, Frank Johnston, J. B. Hoppen, Chas. Savage, Frank Sigeson, Clyde B. Kent, V. D. Williams, Gus Thieben, Nat McCormick, Millard Jones, Frank Ray and John Hawthorne. Advertising car No. 2, Phil W. Stinson, manager, with twelve lithographers, banner men and programmers, leaves Fort Worth March 28. The opposition brigade, with Roger B. Pearson in charge of eight men, left Fort Worth 23. The Buckskin Bill Show opens the season at Fort Worth, Tex., April 7.
Roster of car No. 1, Buckskin Bill's Wild West Shows: W. E. Sands, car manager, member N. A. B. & B. of A.; F. J. McCormick, boss bill poster; F. H. Johnston, assistant boss bill poster; J. B. Hoppen, lithographer; H. Thieben, paste maker and porter. Bill posters: James Savage, T. Wheadon, Jack Sigerson, J. A. Johnson, Chas. Cleveland, C. Thompson, P. F. Murphy, V. D. Williams, A. Wiles, C. B. Kent.
Cortland R. Harris, of Local No. 4, Philadelphia, has signed with the Walter L. Main Circus as boss bill poster on car No. 2. The past two seasons he was with the Barnum & Bailey Show.
New York Clipper, April 16, 1904, p. 166. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Walter L. Main Circus notes. Geneva, O., and the country for miles around has been decorated with the Main Circus paper, announcing the show's opening date in Geneva April 28. The six new 60ft. cars arrived in Geneva Saturday. The show this season will be just six cars more than last year, and all cars of uniform width, height and length. The roster is made up as follows: executive staff: Hugh Harrison, manager; W. W. Power, auditor and financial representative; J. D. Harrison, press department; Dr. C. M. Stull, superintendent of labor and forage; Owen W. Dowd, private secretary; A. J. Gillingham, adjuster; Prof. Victor Hugo, manager of museum; Prof. John Gill, musical director; Col. Wm. Elliott, charge of refreshment booths; Richard Jones, superintendent of zoological department; James Whallen, in charge of canvas; W. W. Scoll, superintendent of stock; Peter Hurts, master of transportation; ___ Hooers, illuminations; Henry Pullman, ___ of parade and charge of musuem entrances; Frank Dailey, master of properties; Wm. E. Kirsch, in charge of private dining cars; John Abner, master mechanic; Samuel Harper, superintendent of blacksmithing; A. J. Trunkey, attorney. Advance department: Ed. C. Knupp, general agent; E. M. Burk, special agent; Walter T. Murphy, director of opposition; A. H. Westfall, contracting agent; John D. Carey, press representative; Tom L. Wilson, contracting press agent; W. K. Peck, manager of car No. 1; J. W. Logan (Logey), manager of car No. 2; E. N. Waters, in charge of third brigade; George Corcoran, twenty-four hour agent. Performers: R. H. Dockrill, equestrian director; the Nelson Family (nine), acrobats; the Boises (three), aerialists; Mlle. Scott, iron jaw and human top; Mlle. Tournour, flying trapeze; Harry Green and wife, Harry Clark and son, Frank McCormack and wife, Famous Delmont, Herbert, "the frog man"; Martinho Lowande, Ed. Hocum, Al. Davenport, Three Leffells, Mlle. Hocum, Miss Davenport, Mamie Lemm, Keeler Bros., musical clowns; Robert Tyler, the Martines, Billy Fields, Edna Hocum, Mlle. Vogt, C. E. Baker, hippodrome rider; Chas. Hopper, Sammie Nelson, Harry Newman, W. T. Bryant, John Herrick, Ernest Girard, Orville Pitcher, English clown; Arthur Stanz, trapeze; Harry Hodge, F. E. Bennett, Harry Jordan, Art Hoffman, Mamie Lufenberg, Lotta Blasser, Jimmie Linne, Mlle. Lowande, Capt. Bennett and company of forty rough riders and sharpshooters; Alexia Kanwitesh, Tibo Souverine and M. Luckes, Russian trio; Gus Keeler and S. C. Barnett. M. Mihilis will be in charge of front door entrances, and the lightning ticket seller, Wm. Vogt, in the ticket wagon. Howard Damon will have charge of all sleeping cars, and A. D. Moreland, pastmaster of circus caterers, in charge of dining department. The side show is made up as follows: Rose Munroe, musical act; Frank, broom king; Johnson's coon band of ten musicians; Williams' Colored Vaudeville Co., male and female coon shouters, singers, cake walkers and dancers; Major Rhinback, midget; Maquetta, paper tearer; Viola Garland, flower artist; Lillie Allen, long haired woman; Nellie Clarkson, whittler; Cleve Gill, giantess; Frieda, mind reader; Cathline Ryland, bag puncher; Wild Rose, the Lovenberg Sisters, bagpipe duo; Arthur Hoffman, Frank Reynolds, Wm. Castle, door talker; Victor Hugo, manager; W. F. Parker, boss canvas man. The concert, in addition to vaudeville and minstrel numbers, will feature Mlle. Newson, looping the loop on a bicycle. Dainty Dewdrop, the midget, will be a special feature in the curio department. Mrs. Florence Moreland, treasurer of the commissary department, and Tom Brown, assistant manager of dining camps. The Main sleeping cars this season will be superb, the management deciding "ther is only on life to live," and to get all the comfort possible out to circus livelihood. Every sleeping car is a Pullman, and an innovation for workingmen, many of the car berths in the workingmen's Pullmans are only two high. The Main winter quarters are beautifully located on high ground, just at Geneva's outskirts. The Lake Shore Railway and the Cleveland and Painsville Electric Street Car Line run direct by the door of the quarters on through Ashtabula and Cleveland. The buildings have natural gas and water connections throughout. Being of brick, with metal coverings, there is no danger of a conflagration, and as the situation of the circus home is not near any river or stream there is no liability of damage by floods.
Notes from Pawnee Bill's winter quarters. Major G. W. Lillie (Pawnee Bill) has received his permit from the Indian Commissioner at Washington, giving him authority to secure what Indians he will need for this season. Ed. Botsford is now en route to the West to bring on the different tribes that have been engaged. Kim Lung, a former officer in the Chinese cavalry, now in San Francisco, Cal., with a troupe of ten Chinese cavalrymen, will arrive here about April 10. They are the first ever brought to America, and their dare devil feats of horsemanship, while riding at breakneck speed, and their marvelous skill in using a lance, are wonderful. In China they guard the Northern frontier. We have engaged them to augment our wild East contingent. Sergeant James Warren, for a number of years with Buffalo Bill's Wild West, will personally direct the military department. Major Lillie has decided to open on April 23, instead of 30. Everything is ready, and the show this season will not only astonish the natives, but showmen as well. It is hard to realize that in the last two years this show has reached the wonderful proportions it asssumes today. Our parade this year will be the largest wild west parade we have ever given, and a novel street pageant. Many features that are entirely new in this country will be introduced.
Prof. J. W. Lee, magician and Illusionist, is engaged to manage the side show and vaudeville annex for Welsh Brothers. Mme. Rosa Lee will appear in her thought transfersion specialty. Prof. Louis Gilbert's original plantation brass band and troupe of cotton field shouters will be a prominent factor in this department. Rexton's Royal English Marionettes are also booked.
Notes from the Sig. Sautelle Shows. Our advance is now complete. General agent S. H. Fiedler has surrounded himself with an able corps of assistants, and will be in good shape to take care of any opposition that might come our way. We will run two advertising cars; our No. 1 is a new 60ft. car, fitted up with all modern appliances, and will be a splendid advertisement. We have a fine line of special paper, plenty of it, and we will be as well billed as any show on the road. Following is a complete roster of our advance: S. H. Fiedler, general agent; Frank Whittner, manager car No. 1; F. Banks, press agent; Harry Yost, chief lithographer; Fred Hudson, assistant; Stepla Bower, boss bill poster; Chas. Gernant, Harry Rutter, T. Donovan, Fred W. Booklein, W. T. Hite, Lee Smith, Wallace Meeker, M. Thawley, J. E. Gildrie and Chas. Walters, bill posters; programmer, J. E. Sisler; porter, Pete Conkler; cook, Carl Kreitner. W. M. Goodwin, manager car No. 1; John Carlisle, boss bill poster; Frank Schnoth, lithographer; Harry Stevens, John McDonald, T. McLure, W. Klinger, George Reed, W. Seeley, A. Barker and Fred Childs, bill posters; P. McLeod, programmer; R. Sutcliffe, banner man; Frank Brown, cook; Charley Lowrie, route rider.
Eugene A. Welker, cornetist, closed with Sliver's "Ten Nights in a Bar Room" Co., at Windber, Pa., and joins Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows, April 25, at Norfolk, Va.
Roster of H. C. Long's Refined Palace Shows. Executive staff: H. C. Long, sole owner and manager; E. Red Parllman, assistant manager and treasurer; Geo. W. Cline, equestrian director; E. J. Buford, general agent, with four assistants; Prof. Gabe Boon, band master; Foxie Morris, steward; W. H. Curtis, boss canvas man. Performers: the Valentinoes (Millie, George and Master Robert), the Irwins (Millie, William J. and Little Kittie), Frank Lamonde, Geo. W. Odule, Geo. W. Cline, Mrs. H. C. Long, and Chas. Long, with his troupe of dogs. Musicians: Gabe Boon, leader; W. W. Harris, solo cornet; E. Parllman, first cornet; Frank Beattie, alto; C. E. McKever, slide trombone; S. H. Fisher, baritone; Frank Morris, tuba; R. W. Denney, double drums.
Notes from Lucky Bill's Big Tent Show. We opened our season at Quenemo, Kan., March 26, to crowded tents, afternoon and evening, with many new and novel attractions. Among them are: the McCoy Family, acrobats, bounding rope, tight wire and trapeze performers; the Musican Grangers, Williard and Williard, comedy jugglers and trick and fancy bicycle riders; Lou Hibner, heavy and lightweight balancing; Wm. Newton and Hibner, in revolving ladder act; Little Blonde Dunlap, in dances, illustrated songs and moving picture machine. We have added an entirely new feature with a tent show, that of carrying a piano, with Mrs. May Dunlap, musical director and pianist. Also have a number of new wagons fitted up with everything for the comfort and convenience of performers. We have a number of trained ponies, monkeys and birds. Weather is delightful and business fine.
William Fables and wife, "That and It," have signed with Welsh Bros.' Newest Great Shows, opening at Gordonville, Pa., April 14. Prof. Wm. Wood, calliope player, also goes with the Welsh Bros., this being Mr. Wood's third season with this show. The Misses Johnson and De Witt, the fencing girls, are engaged for J. W. Lee's side show, with the Welch Bros.
The Wallace Show will open the season April 30. Rehearsals are called for April 23 and 27 for performers.
Notes from Snyder Bros. & Dowker's Big Consolidated Shows, Museum and Wild West. Everybody is busy getting ready for our Spring opening, which will take place April 23, at Brighton, Ill., where the show has been in winter quarters since Oct. 25. A force of workingmen have been remodeling wagons and building new ones. The odor of paint indicates that the red wagons will not lack the necessaries that make them look bright and new. About twenty-five head of bronchos have been purchased exclusively for the wild west department. The management have booked many new and feature acts for the coming season. The last shipment of canvas has arrived, and the tops will all be new. Wm. H. Tibbils will have charge of advance No. 1; F. Valdes will manage the side show, and Theodore Stout will be band leader. The show will tour Missouri, Illinois and Indiana the coming season.
Genaro and Theol write: "We arrived from Europe, and opened with the Ringling Bros. Circus on April 2. Our new diamond costume creates much favorable comment, nothing like it ever having been seen with a circus in America."
Notes from Lowery Bros.' No. 1 New Olympia Shows. Our winter quarters present a fine appearance, and everything looks as bright as the sun. Our cars are painted a pale blue, trimmed with gold, and will look as good as the best. All our tents are new, and we will add four hundred more reserved seats. Roster: Geo. B. Lowery, sole manager; Jas. McGuire, treasurer; Andy Williams, bookkeeper and typewriter; Wm. Mack, ticket seller; Frank Monroe, ticket taker; John Sloan, porter car No. 1; W. Sloan, porter car No. 2. Performers: Prof. Atkins, equestrian director and ring master, double traps; Mr. and Mrs. L. Henreux, horizontal bars; Schneider and Powell, high wire and Spanish web; Levolo. Clowns: Chas. O'Brien, John Frey and John Seymour. Marvelous Turner, contortionist; Viola Raymond and her troupe of canine wonders and trick ponies; Mlle. La Tuna, daring slide for life. Concert people: John Frey, John Seymour, Turner and Raymond, and Jas. Miller. Will C. Sites, advance, with five men. A grand balloon ascension and parachute will be given free daily by Prof. Baker, and in all cities, and if any opposition, a big double ascension and double parachute jump, by Mr. and Mrs. Baker. No. 1 show opens in Shenandoah April 18.
Notes from Buffalo Bill's Wild West. Col. Cody and the American contingent are expected to arrive about April 9, rehearsals begin 18, and the "Big Show" - the largest and best in its long and brilliant history - will open the season at Stoke-on-Trent, England, Monday, April 25. The tour will embrace Scotland and parts of England and Wales not touched last year. Col. Cody's shooting on horseback; Johnnie Baker's incomparable act; the cowboy 'cyclist, looping through space, and "Custer's Last Charge," will be prominent features this year. Chas. Eldridge Griffin will have charge of the annex, with the following attractions: Mlle. Octavia, "the Yankee snake charmer," who recently created such a sensation at Bostock's Hippodrome, Paris; Princess Chiquita, midget; Aaron Moore, Afro-American giant; Fred Walters, "the Blue Man"; Count Dracula, "Human Scabbard"; Prof. C. A. Giovanni's monkey theatre and Australian bird circus; Leonine, lion faced lady; the Diamonds, Western bowie knife and tomahawk throwers; Royal Shanghai Chinese Troupe; Sacket's musical rabbits and hares; Griffin, the American conjurer, and Louis Sacketto's Royal Italian Band. The concert will embrace: Boyd and Lovely, comedians; Charles Diamond, harp, song and dance; Mlle. Beatrice, saxaphone soloist; Charles Whalen, eccentric dancer; Daisy Andrews, song and dance, and Major Sitherland, baton and gun juggler. Walter Beckwith will be chief of the refreshment department, and Harry Leonard will have charge of the programmes for Partington & Co. Alfred Smith Jr., the well known English show painter, has succeeded the late Fred Dangerfield as scenic artist for the Wild West. Our troupe of cossacks have arrived from Russia, and create a great sensation on the street in their quaint costumes.
Williamson and Gilbert have been engaged for the Barnum & Bailey Show for the summer.
Roy Martino closed with the Brinton Entertainment Co., April 9, and will open with the Gollmar Bros. New R. R. Shows the latter part of April, to do his slack wire and trapeze act.
Fred Clymer, late of Primrose & Dockstader's Minstrels, sailed for Europe April 9, to join the Buffalo Bill Wild West. His wife (Zella Carlton) accompanied him, and will remain in London with relatives.
New York Clipper, April 23, 1904, pp. 190, 199. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Col. W. F. Cody (Buffalo Bill) and about 250 members of the Wild West Show, which will give performances in England and Scotland in the summer, sailed last week for Liverpool. Only forty-seven Indians went with him. Several of the consignment scheduled to go were killed, and forty were hurt in a recent accident. Other Indians will be selected from the Dakota reservations and sent to England.
Notes from the McDonald Brothers New United Shows. Everything is in readiness for the opening, April 21, which is expected to be a grand event. The Knights of Pythias and the Uniform Rank, also the Fraternal Order of Eagles, will turn out in a body in honor of McDonald Bros., who are members of the above orders. The roster: William R., Harry and Will S. McDonald, sole owners; S. W. Hopkins, advance agent; Carlos Jobe, bill poster; J. W. Brackman, side show manager. Performers: the Rydon Troupe, five in number, aerialists; the Kilian Family, seven in number, acrobats and aerialists; William Smith, barrel jumper and contortionist; Walter Fletcher, aerialist and clown; Frank Melrose, principal clown and manager of concert; Chas. ___, tramp acrobat; Julia Rickey, fancy dances; Maggie Brackman, bag punching and mind reading; Prof. C. G. Hicks, magician and announcer; May Crayon, soubrette; Little Florence, fancy dancing and paper tearing; Miss Louise, snake charmer and school of alligators; Prof. Chas. W. Edwards, band leader, with twelve musicians; Frank Stokes, boss canvasman with fifteen men; Thomas Jones, boss properties and five men; James Hurley, boss hostler, with eight men. Thirty head of stock, fourteen wagson and buggies, seventy foot round top, forty foot middle piece, 40x60ft. side show, 30x50ft. horse tent, 20x40ft. cook tent, 30ft. dressing tent. Everything is new from front door to dressing room, making one of the finest equipped wagon shows on the road.
Frank Leopold's Great South American Allied R. R. Shows' notes. Everything is progressing nicely. Many novel and startling features are with the new aggregation, headed by Prof. Chas. W. Rote's Australian band of ten pieces. List of performers: the Bird Family, three in number, equillibrist and Roman statuary; Gaston, Lark and Burns, on the triple bars; Walter Wentworth, contortionist; Le Barron Bros., double somersaults; Lark and Burns, wire act and acrobats; Golding, juggler; Henry Hall, Melnotte and Halltry, Mrs. Chas. W. Rote, female solo trombonist, with the Australian band; Wm. Cobb, boss canvas man with ten assistants; Willard Jones, boss seat man; Sam Courtney, master of properties; Sam H. Westfall, general agent and R. R. contractor, who is paving the way for the show in Pennsylvania and Ohio.
Sig. Sautelle's Consolidated Shows notes. All our new canvas has arrived, and is now being waterproofed. When this is completed but little work will be necessary to put everything in readiness. . . . Workingmen are arriving daily, and already there is a large colony of troopers between Homer and Cortland. The performers and musicians will report Monday, April 25, and five days later the first performance will be given at Homer. Contracting agent Dickson is now en route, and our first advance car left last week. Mr. Sautelle recently closed a deal for the purchase of a white camel, which will arrive in a short time. Equestrian director France Reed states that he will exercise most painstaking efforts in arranging the big show programme, so that there will be something doing in the two rings and on the stage or in the air every minute of the two hours' performance.
Walter L. Main Show news. Tom L. Wilson, press representative for the Walter L. Main Circus last season, has signed for the same position the coming summer, and is now en route with No. 1 advertising car. The car, with W. K. Peck, manager, left Geneva, O. (show's headquarters), April 8, and is now on its way. The car carried thirty-four bill posters, aside from the manager and two programmers - probably the largest number of men on one car that ever went out since circuses first began to travel by rail. Some of the men will probably be relegated to No. 2 car later. The latter took its departure April 14. It is generally conceded that Mr. Main has this season the greatest menagerie and best performers - as well as special and entertaining features - he has ever had since his circus career opened, eighteen years ago. The shows open in Geneva, O., April 23.
Don Ford's Big City Show notes. We open May 7 at Philadelphia, for the entire summer season. The intention is, as in the past few years, to play twenty-four weeks, giving a circus and vaudeville performance, on elevated stage and arena, on the inside. We also have an Indian village, with Capt. Hein's tribe of North American Indians illustrating the lives and customs of the aborigines, with exhibitions of rifle shooting, riding, and bead and basket work, and the ghost, death, snake and fire dances. One ticket admits one to everything in both tents. For a free outside exhibition Mr. Ford has gone out of the beaten path, and presents Cyclisto, the flying wheelman, leaping the gap on a bicycle, making a perilous plunge down an incline from a tower fifty feet high, forty feet of the track being removed to shoot into the air, and lands on it again where it resumes. Among the many feature we shall present the familiar faces of La Reine Sisters, Lovett Bros., acrobats and aerialists; Billy Newton, singer and dancer, who is expected daily to arrive from Valparaiso, Chili, where he has been all winter, with Julio Quiros American Varieties. Don Ford will continue to enterain in his original clown comedies, assisted by Chas. Bryan, juggler and hand balancer. Nelson's troupe of trained dogs and ponies are also re-engaged. Mr. Ford will also produce his famous magical illustions, transposition, "Here, and Not Here," and is card and coin manipulations, as well as his handcuff tests. Our layout will consist of 100ft. round top, with two 50ft. middles; dining tent, 50ft. round top; dressing top, 30ft. round top. The Indian village will be enclosed with four hundred feet of side wall, twelve feet high, and will consist of twelve tepees, making in all, one of the best layouts ever spread by a semi-big show in Philadelphia.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Consolidated Railroad Shows. At the close of the present month the band will play, and it is needless to add that the opening day is eagerly awaited by all concerned. A letter from the builder states that the new extra large sized baggage wagons are about completed, and will be shipped to winter quarters at an early date, and, with these painted and lettered, all of the rolling stock will be ready for duty. The policy and makeup of Sig. Sautelle's Tent City Daily News have been determined, and the first number of this newspaper will appear April 29, followed by a regular week day issue of 4,000 copies, during our season. Our number one advertising is being loaded with as flashy and attractive paper as has ever been seen, and its crew of twenty-one men has been ordered to report for work at an early date. The second car will be sent out nine days later. Roger, our big elephant, has attained such enormous proportions during the winter, that he has entirely outgrown his car, and it has been necessary to build one that will house the huge beast. A newly imported consignment of animals will arrive about the middle of April.
May and Anthony Coleman have signed for this season with B. L. Bowman, for Sun Bros.' annex, to do their bag punching and fire act.
The Sells & Downs Shows will open the season April 23.
C. J. Hicks, magician, writes that he is going with the McDonald Bros.' New United Shows, to do magic and Punch. The show opens April 21.
Notes from MacFarland & Holder's United Shows. This is the title of a new circus that will make a bid for public favor this coming summer. Wm. MacFarland's name, a well known horse dealter of Philadelphia, is guarantee enough that nothing finer in the way of blooded horses can be carried with any show on the road. He contemplates sending out seventy-five to one hundred head of stock. Ed. Holder, an old time circus man, well known in the sawdust ring for his remarkable fine act of trained steers and educated pigs, is the "other half" of this new firm. The show opens May 5, at Woodbury, N.J. (where Mr. McFarland has a large stock farm). It will carry a 100ft. round top, with a 50ft. centre piece. The No. 2 tent will be an 80ft. round top, with a 30ft. centre piece. Cooking and dressing tents will also be carried. The side show is to be under the direction of Howard Robinson, and will contain some new and novel features. The parade is to consist of some twenty wagons, fine carriages, and two challenge bands. Nothing finer in the way of harness, trappings, etc., can be displayed. The show in its entirety will consist of fifty people.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. Our two new advance wagons have been turned over to the painters, and two weeks more will find them loaded with our new special paper, ready for the summer campaign. George Pickering will be general agent, in charge of the first brigade, and Chas. Shepard will manager the second brigade and look after the opposition work. It is Mr. Wheeler's intention to make this the best billed show of its size on the road. Prof. B. Jones has several surprise features in the trained animal department, which will open the eyes of the professional people. Our opening date will probably be May 4.
M. C. Cookston writes: "I am engaged as assistant manager with the Seibel Bros.' Shows for the coming season."
Campbell Brothers' Shows have called their people for April 25.
"Mascot," performing horse, after finishing twelve weeks with the Orrin Bros. Circus, at the City of Mexico, was re-engaged for forty weeks more.
E. C. Bond, late manager of Bond's Museum, writes: "I have signed with Andres Downie's New Big One Ring Show for the season of 1904. Thisis my fifteenth season in the show business. Next season I intend putting on the road a large wagon show. My present museum is leased for this season as a park museum."
New York Clipper, April 30, 1904, p. 218. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The following is the officially announced roster of the Walter L. Main Circus, which opened in Geneva, O., Saturday, April 23; Hugh Harrison, manager; Doc C. S. Stull, superintendent of workingmen and director of parade and feed; W. W. Power, auditor and adjuster; J. D. Harrison, press agent with show; Owen Doud, secretary; Wm. E. Vogt, treasurer; Mrs. Wm. E. Vogt, assistant treasurer; Harry Hodge, assistant manager of privileges; A. J. Gilligham, adjuster; Vick Hugo, manager of side show; R. H. Dockrill, equestrian director; M. Mihills, superintendent main entrance; W. W. Power, M. Mihills, O. W. Doud, front door tenders; Col. Wm. Elliott, superintendent candy stands; Howard Damon, superintendent sleeping cars; James Whalen, boss canvas man; Chas. Kelly, assistant boss canvas man; Frank Reaves, assistant boss canvas man; W. W. Scott, boss hostler; Peter Hirtsz, master of transportation; Rich'd Jones, superindentdent and trainer of elephants; Theodore Ferris, superintendent of menageries; John Gill, leader of band; Henry Pullman, leader of parade and side show door-tender; John Morgan, boss of ring stock; R. G. Meers, superintendent of lights; Frank Daily, boss property man; Wm. E. Kirsch, in charge of dining car, "Music," John Abner, boss carpenter; Sam Harper, boss blacksmith; Al. Pancost, superintendent of winter quarters; Frank McCormack, special agent; Mrs. F. McCormack, superintendent of wardrobe; A. D. Moreland, manager of camp; Tom Brown, superintendent of camp; Capt. F. E. Bennett, Harry Green, superintendents of spectacle; Harry Clark, chief clown; Dr. Theodore S. Crosby, physician and surgeon. Advance: Ed. C. Knupp, general agent; E. M. Burk, traffic manager; A. H. Westfall, contracting agent; Bob Clements, assistant contracting agent; Tom L. Wilson, contracting press agent; John D. Carey, general press agent; Walter Murphy, in charge opposition brigade No. 1; J. W. Logan, in charge opposition brigade No. 2; Wm. K. Peck, superintendent adversiting car No. 1; Fred J. Bates, superintendent advertising car No. 2; E. N. Waters, manager box brigade No. 3; George Corcoran, 24-hour agent; Joseph Gregg, excursion agent.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Nine Consolidated Railroad Shows. The No. 1 advertising car left winter quarters at Cortland, N.Y., Saturday evening, April 16, going from there to Binghampton, via the D. L. and W. Railroad. The car is a 60ft. Pullman, and is fitted up with every improvement and device known to car constructors. There are spacious staterooms and offices for the manager and press agent, and excellent accomodations for the bill posters and other workers. The bill and dining rooms are large and roomy. Taken in all the car is absolutely one of the very finest to be seen ahead of any show. The bill posters and agents are covering everything in sight with as attractive a line of special paper as was ever seen. Friday and Saturday, April 15 and 16, the men put up several thousands of sheets of paper in and around Cortland and Homer, notwithstanding that a blizzard was fiercely raging. From the very inception of our season everything has moved along with the precision and smoothness of clock mechanism, under the careful guidance of manager H. S. Fiedler, the veteran showman. Mr. Fiedler has been very fortunate in surrounding himself with a proficient staff. Despite the fact that the Forepaugh-Sells Show had put up a great deal of paper in Binghampton several days before we arrived in that city, our boys succeeded in getting an excellent showing. All of our men are enthusiastic and look forward to a bright and prosperous season.
J. C. O'Brien and wife, A. L. Salvail, Del Fuego, Lulu, tattooed princess; Beaham and Dakin, Johnny Beaham, Madame Foignet, Geo. W. Hoffman, Master Erni, Frank Flarety, Madame Devere, Geo. Martin, Lindsey Sister, Alice Johnson, Nellie Conway and two Hindoo wonder workers (these people) will leave Chicago April 29 to join Campbell Bros.' Circus in Fairbury, Neb.
Sam Horner is with Norris & Rowe's Circus.
Notes from Bonheur Bros. The show has been completely remodeled. All old wagons repainted and repaired to look like new; new wagons built and elaborately ornamented and painted in the symbolic color, which is bright golden yellow, from a formula of king's yellow and chrome. The old titles formerly carried by the show are now obliterated and consigned to oblivion, and the "Golden Mascot" is everywhere in evidence in vivid colors and gold. Nowhere the show travels this season will there be any lack of publicity in hearlding this appropriate name, and thoroughly establishing its priority as a title that belongs only to this show. Every other name adopted by the Bonheur Bros. has been appropriated by imitators in one way or another, making it a matter of uncertainty as to what show the name really belonged. The interesting story regarding the origin and development of the show and its name is given with much entertaining history and incidents relating to the troupers who have followed its fortunes from the year of its first inception under canvas, is given with splendid illustrations from photographs taken while en route, in the new book, entitled "Troupers of the Golden Mascot," which will be out some time in May. Chas. W. Hoffman, of Hagerstown, Md., who has the largest collection of circus literature to be found anywhere, was the first to subscribe for this volume. Mr. Hoffman will get the first complete book that comes off the press. The roster of the Golden Mascot Shows is in part as follows: Howard A. Bonheur, general manager; J. R. Bonheur, treasurer; Amos G. Bonheur, advance adjuster, with two assistants; Louis Wood, press agent; P. J. German, manager of side show; E. A. Thybault, in charge of side show property and tents; Clyde Rialdo, singing, acting and talking principal clown; Prof. German, musical director; the Rialdos, Clyde and Nellie, wire and trapes; the Wilmarth Family, Rosaline, Evangeline and Little Pauline, concert artists and musicians; Vangle, serpentine and sunbeam dancer; Zeelah, the Mystic Wonder Jap, in Biblical miracles, and Queen of trained birds, canaries, parrots and flamingos; Sloan's trained flock of geese; big troupe of educated canines, forming a comical canine college; herd of goats, in wonderful feats, and a large troupe of midget Shetlands, in many feature acts; Sunrise and Sunset, in a beautiful menage act, with child riders; racing contests of fleet midget horses and monkey jockeys; moving picture marvels - Russo-Japanese war and great fire scenes, with many thousands of feet in humorous films, produced by the new kinedrome machine. O. M. Purcell, Monroe Grimes, Wm. Salter, H. J. Wine, Roy Ralls and others have recently joined. The show has just moved into its new quarters, where the performers are installed with best accommodations till the opening day. There are work shops newly built for repairing wagons, and paint shops for painting and varnishing, and the show will go out in pink span, brand new attire. A hearld, half-sheet size, lavishly illustrated, will be supplemented by a one-third sheet quarto courier, filled with interesting newpaper endorsement of the show, appropriately illustrated, besides a 6x28 ___, also finely illustrated with newly originated cuts. In fact, everything will appear in new dress - everything will be new from the bale ring to the clowns' jokes. It would not be doing justice to the Old Reliable to leave it out of these notes. It has been a regular weekly visitor all winter to the winter quarters, graces the centre table, under the gas light suspended from the ceiling of the parlor and reading room in the pleasant new quarters, and has not oly served as a welcom guest, but an inspiration to the trouper, who has his whole heart in the work of which the Clipper is the champion. . . .
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. General agent George E. Pickering and his first brigade will leave winter quarters April 26, and will be followed, four days later, by the second brigade, in charge of Chas. E. Shepard. Our opening date will be May 4. Late additions to our roster are: John S. and Blanche Reh, for side show and concert, and Johnnie Reilly, the little whirlwind baton juggler, who will also have charge of the concert. Boss hostler Geo. M. Wilkins has the draught stock in prime condition for the road, and the trained stock, under Prof. Paul B. Jones, are working like old timers. Our new band and ticket wagons, just out of the paint shops, are models of beauty.
Notes from Seibel Bros.' New R. R. Dog and Pony Show. This show was framed up last season for a wagon show, with everything new from stake to centre pole. We carried sixty head of baggage stock and ninety Shetland ponies, but on account of the bad roads, and the size of the show, and the large business done last season, Col. Seibel finds it necessary to put the show out on rail this season. The cars have all been built of uniform size with all the conveniences necessary. Everything with the show will be new, and painted accordingly. All the harness and trappings have just arrived from Chicago. We also received a car load of miniature cages and up to date band chariot. Our ring barns contain forty head of educated ponies and horses, which are getting their regular routine of work every day. Also two troupes of dogs and monkeys. Each department of the show will be handled by experienced people. The Seibel Bros. have spared neither pains or money to make this show rank among the best. We open the season of 1904 at Watertown, Wis., on Thursday, May 5.
Albert Gaston, a veteran clown, has signed with Frank Leopold's Plate or Fashion Circus, which opens its season at Norristown, Pa., May 6.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Ellet go with the Hargreaves Show this season.
Fred Wagner closed a twenty-eight weeks' season as manager of Al. W. Martin's "Uncle Tom's Cabin" Co., at Schenectady, N.Y., April 16, and after a week's vacation in Chicago, rejoined the Great Wallace Shows, at Peru, Ind., making his eighth season on the executive staff of that organization. Gerald Fitzgerald closed with Al. W. Martin, in Chicago, April 23, and after a week spent in Detroit, rejoined the Great Wallace Shows, at Peru, Ind., making his third season as press agent.
New York Clipper, May 7, 1904, pp. 251, 258. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Stygles' Big Show. Friday, May 6, has been set for the opening day, and all departments are being rushed early and late, although there is now no doubt that everything will be in shape on time. The wagons are all completed and lettered in a neat, attractive manner. All the animals have wintered well, and the stock will start out in good condition. We were visited Monday, April 18, by our agent, J. C. Beck, who closed as agent of "Looping the Loop" Co. at Burlington, Vt., and he was greatly pleased with the appearance of our outfit. He will take charge of the advance brigade. Prof. White will have many unique features to please the patrons of the side show. Proprietor Stygles has decided to make a two day stand in his home town of Cambridge, Vt., opening on Friday. He will admit the public without charge as his guests, and will also extend the invitation to the members of the Traveling Men's Association, who have a meeting at Cambridge on that day.
Will Sites, general agent of Lowery Bros.' Great One Ring Circus, writes: "Business has been very good since our opening April 18. We have five kinds of paper and plenty of it. I have five men ahead with me, and we will bill heavy. My own show, the Sites Stock Co., tours Pennsylvania, Maryland and the South next season, opening in September."
The Gregory Family (Charles, Bessie, ___ and Marguerite) write: "We closed with John B. Wilis' Comdedy Co., April 23, and joined Sig. Sautelle's Circus, at Homer, N.Y., for the summer season. Our four act has been a big success with the show."
H. Van Cleve writes: "The team of Van Cleve and Tote Du Crow has split. I and my mule (Pete) are doing the same act as we did alone at Luna Park last season. I have signed with the Manuel Pubillones Circus in Cuba."
Chas. Barnes has joined the Great Melbourne Show as singing and talking clown.
Wm. La Rue was compelled to leave John H. Spark's Show and go to West Baden, Ind., for stomach trouble. He will rejoin the show in about two weeks.
Notes from the William Todt Famous Show. We opened April 18, at Cape Charles, Va., to a splendid business, which has continued. We will make all three day and week stands. The outfit has a fine and prosperous appearance, everything being thoroughly overhauled and repainted. Our big top is a 70ft., with 40ft. middle piece; dressing top and cook tent, __ft.; entrance 20x20, with ten lengths of blue and reserved seats. The whole outfit is lighted by eight arc incandescent gasoline lamps. All small advertising matter is special this season. The roster is: William Todt, Mrs. William Todt, William Todt Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Ten Eyck, Frank Merrill, Al. ___, John D. Powers, Laurence J. Powers, Thomas Johnston, Ed. Cooley, Percy Johnson, ___ Stevenson and Chas. Smyth. Frank Merrill is band master and John D. Powers orchestra leader. The performance, band, orchestra, ___ and paper is by far the best Mr. Todt has ever had. The route will take us into Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. We will be out until November next.
Roster of Lucky Bill's Show. Wm. Newton Jr. and Lon ___, in their revolving ladder act; McCoy Family, acrobats and bounding rope act; Willard and Willard, jugglers, slack wire, contortion; Musical Grangers; ___ Dunlap, songs and dances; Mary Dunlap, pianist and musical director; Wm. Newton Jr., advance, and Lucky Bill, manager.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Consolidated Railroad Shows. Owing to the temporary return of winter the fore part of last week, the work of waterproofing the new canvas was considerably delayed. It was completed April 22, and three days later all of the tents were up, and a more natty outfit has never been seen. Our call for __ was responded to by nearly every one signed, and every department will be filled for the opening. Our initial performance will be given in Homer, N.Y., 25. . . . There will be many Elks with these shows this season. The newest one is Charles P. Watson, who was tossed by the antlers last week. He was initiated by the Cortland Lodge. Several Syracuse Elks and other prominent persons of that city will attend the opening, having chartered a special train over the D., L. & W. railroad.
Notes from Bert Silver, manager of the Silver Family Shows. We closed our concert tour April _, at Farwell, Mich., after a long, hard tour of sixteen weeks, but did a fair business all winter. We are getting our vaudeville circus ready to open early in May. We will carry twenty-five people, twelve horses, six circus acts, and a band and orchestra of twelve people, seven of whom are members of Silver Family, Bert Silver and his six children. All the people we have signed are good performers and musicians. We expect to do a good business, and play the same route we have been playing for twenty-seven years.
New York Clipper, May 14, 1904, p. 275. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Show. We opened the season to a crowded tent at Stillwater, N.Y. The show is a new one in the field this season, and by the way things look it is a winner. The show is owned and managed by Al. F. Wheeler, and the side show is under the charge of Jno. L. Reh. It is one of the best of its kind, carrying eight acts and band. All are well with the show. At Greenwich, N.Y., while Little John Riley, the baton spinner of the big show band, was out, he found a Clipper, and after this week we will look for the Old Reliable right along.
Harry St. Julian has signed with Mayor G. W. Lillie, Pawnee Bill's Wild West Show for the season.
Wm. Delly writes: "Myself and wife, Isabella Delly, closed a very successful season April 2, with Knowles, the hypnotist, at Birmingham, Ala., and then left for Baraboo, Wis., to join Gollmar Bros. Big New R. R. Show, as car manager of advertising car No. 1. Mrs. Delly and baby, Isabella, will remain at Chicago during the summer, where Baby Isabella is taking dancing lessons of Prof. Roach in order to be ready to be featured in her specialties at the opening of the coming season."
Lee Bros.' Shows open the season May 17, at Attleboro, Mass., and travles by car. William Simmons leads the band with eight soloists. Nothing will be spared this season to make it a genuine old fashioned one ring country circus.
News comes from Pawnee City, Neb., that the menagerie train of Campbell Brothers' Circus caught fire afternoon of May 2, and when the blaze was extinguished, threee elephants, a cage of monkeys, four camels, three water buffalos, two grizzly bears and numerous horse were found to have been burned to death. Many of the cages were destroyed, and the menagerie of the show was practically wiped out. The circus was to have opened its season at Pawnee City, and reached the town on Sunday afternoon. While the unloading was in progress, a car load of hay in the centre of the animal train took fire, and the blaze quickly spread to other cars containing the animals. As soon as possible the train was cut up and the blazing cars hauled to the yards, where th fire was extinguished. It was then found that the menagerie was almost destroyed, but that the circus part of the show was uninjured. The loss will run far into the thousands of dollars.
Chas. Ellis has been engaged with the Pan-American Circus and European Menagerie as contracting agent.
Manager Fred A. Hodgson, of the Orrin Brothers Circus, has engaged Sam Lockhart's elephants for one year.
Frank Milton, of the Four Miltons, and Lulu Long, were married at Philadelphia, April 30, in the Presbyterian Church. Both are members of the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Show.
Barnum & Bailey Circus notes. Last week was the first week of the Barnum & Bailey greatest show on earth of one day stands. After a phenomenal business in Brooklyn, weather considered, we moved on Saturday night from Brooklyn, leaving the grounds at Broadway and Halsey Street, going three miles to the new bridge and one and a half miles across the bridge, two miles across New York City, a mile and a half across the Hudson River by the ___ Street ferry, and about two miles to the Jersey Heights. The Jersey haul was particularly hard on account of the very long and steep hill. The lot was very soft, and all the wagons were up to the hubs in the mushy earth. It was determined to give no parade, as the weather was very threatening and the horses very weary. Everybody was surprised at the turn away business in the afternoon, and the business at night was simply heart breaking. More people were turned away than got inside the enormous big top, with its seating capacityof fifteen thousand persons. At Paterson, next day, despite the fact that we had a three and a half mile haul to the Clifton Race Track, a parade was given and we paraded back to the lot after one o'clock, when the show was opened to big business, which was repeated at night. Wednesday, at Newark, another three mile haul, wearied the horses so much that they refused to eat, and the parade was abandoned. It seemed to make no difference, however, as we had a turn away both afternoon and evening. Thursday, at New Brunswick, another heavy lot and no parade, but enormous business, with full tents in the afternoon and packed at night, in fact, very nearly a turn away. Trenton, Friday, saw beautiful weather, a parade and big business - the biggest every done by a circus in Trenton. Saturday, at Wilmington, we had a very long haul, but gave a parade and had an enormous turn away both afternoon and evening. In Washington, Sunday, at noon, as this is written, we are ready to give a show, and every indication that will have a turn away at all four performances. Thus far, there has been no sickness to speak of with the show, and very few accidents, none of them serious. Carrie Rooney had a fall while riding in the great twelve champion riding acts, which laid her off two or three performances. Then she went home. At the afternoon performance in Wilmington, Aga __, a Japanese performer, fell about fifteen feet while doing the slide for life, and broke his jaw. We are giving two slides simultaneously, and another Jap will replace him in the act. The working contingent of the show has been most harmonious, and the number of people who have left the circus since the season began can be counted upon the fingers of one hand. We are using fifteen splendid Pullman sleepers, and it is safe to say that circus people never traveled with as many conveniences and as much comfort as there is with the Barnum & Bailey show this year. Among the performers, with the exception of Mrs. Rooney and the Jap, no one has been hurt since we left the Garden. ___, who loops the gap, had two or three falls at the Garden, but has had none whatever since we left. Although he follows Volo, and begins his ride before the applause for Volo has subsided, his act is so startling that he simply redoubles the applause, and the result of the act is about ten minutes of clapping and cheering. Nothing like it has ever been seen before. The hippodrome this year is the most extensive that Mr. Bailey has ever given, as they have six, seven and eight riders in each of the flat races, and a total of fifteen different races are run off in the hippodrome with such celerity that the races fairly overlap one another, and the audience is kept in a perfect furor with excitement and applause from the time they begin until the finish. . . . Director George O. Starr, who has been in England attending the opening of the Buffalo Bill Wild West Show, and has been on the continent looking after new features for next season, will be back with the show next Sunday. The Rev. W. Sheak, of Peru, Ind., chaplain of the show, is in very delicate health, and is now suffering from malaria. Everybody is sympathizing with him very greatly. Should he be compelled to return home, as now seems probable, he will take with him the best wishes of the entire outfit. In addition to the two vets always carried with the show, we also have, this year, a Doctor Ivers, of Bridgeport, Conn., one of the leading physicians of the city. He has never had any sort of vacation since he began his practice, years ago, and is beginning his first month as the physician with this show, for the season. He gives his attention to the audience as well as to the twelve hundred members of the company. He is indefatigable in his service, and will not accept a fee from anyone. One of the most popular features of the show with the public are the retiring rooms for both ___, and as they are very completely equipped, the show is complimented every day by the public and by the health authorities for this provision for the comfort and health of the patrons.
New York Clipper, May 21, 1904, p. 299. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Jones New Model Plate Show. We opened in Clifton Forge, Va., April 18. The show is giving excellent satisfaction and making many friends. We have had one blow down and one week of rain, but have not missed a day. We have used the S. R. O. sign several times. Our roster is as follows: E. H. Jones, manager; Clarence Erickson, treasurer; A. J. Anderson, press and privilege man. Performers in big show: the Peasley Family, acrobats; Prof. Adell's educated ponies; Chas. Lanoire, clown; "John," riding monk; James Brooks and Leon Stafford, wire experts; Robert Peasley, cannon balls; Prof. May's trained dogs; "Doke," the great talking pony; La Rose Sisters, double trapeze performers; Prof. West's silver band of twelve pieces. Concert people: Lanoire, banjo soloist and black face comedian; Prof. Anderson, Dutch comedian and wooden shoe dancer; the Clarendons, musicians; Edwardo, illusionist. Side show: Prof. Teil, manager; Mme. Teil, pianist; Camille, snake charmer; Oddo, human wonder; Prof. ___'s "Punch and Judy," six cages of animals, including "Tazewell," the untamable lion. F. River, leader of side show band; E. Brown, Chance Walker, ticket sellers; W. C. Lane, side show talker; J. Burton, ticket taker; C. K. ___, reserve seat man. We put out a neat parade this season.
C. A. Hibbard writes: "I am now in my fourth week with the Great Melbourne Shows. My acts, which are meeting with success, are as follows: swinging bicycle wire, tramp juggling and balancing traps. Chas. Barns is working with me in my comedy revolving ladder act. I have charge of the advertising privilege and the reserved seats with the show."
The Campbell Brothers executive advance staff is as follows: Harry W. Scanlon, general agent; W. L. Sherrill, locan contracting agent; C. A. Clarke, manager car No. 1; Chas. Pailing, boss bill poster, with twenty men; Fred Hatfield, special agent; W. E. Sands, manager car No. 2; Wm. Lee, boss bill poster, with fifteen men; Dick Beemer, route rider.
Will C. Sites, general agent and contractor of Lowry Bros.' New Olympic Shows, writes from Stroudsburg, Pa.: "Business has been at the top notch ever since we opened, April 18. Our roster remains the same, with one exception, Prof. Charles Baker replaced Prof. John Stanfaski. Prof. Baker makes his balloon ascension daily, together with Prof. La Rue, in his daring slide for life. The Shields Bros. will be seen as leading vaudeville features with the Will C. Sites Stock Co. next season. . . .
Roster of the business staff, Wallace Williams' Shows. Herbert Williams, equestrian director; Luke Williams, musical director, with a band of twelve men; J. W. Kelley [Keller?], boss canvas man, with eighteen assistants. 100ft. round top, with two 40ft. middle pieces; side show __ft., with two 30ft. middles; 40ft. round top dressing room, twelve wagons in all. We send most of our people through by rail.
New York Clipper, May 28, 1904, p. 327. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Andrew Downie's Circus notes. We opened the season at Medina, N.Y., April 30, showing there also the following Monday, May 2, to four of the largest crowds ever known in the history of the Andrew Downie's Shows. The weather was fine, and every act went well, and pleased the people present. The parade was called for 10:30, and we left the lot on time. Our parade consists of thirty-five wagons, cages, floats and dens; three bands, a calliope, and twenty-five mounted people. The parade is one of the finest ever known in the history of a wagon show. Mr. Downie has spared no pains to make the show one of the finest on the road. Thus far there has been no sickness with the show, and the weather has been in our favor. The working contingent of the show has been most harmonious, and it is safe to say that the circus people never traveled with more convenience or comfort than with this show. . . . Our big top is an 80ft. round top, with two __ft.; a cook house, 40ft. top; dressing room, 35x55; side show, seventy-five foot top, with thirty foot middle piece; horse top is seventy-five foot top. We are caring for one hundred and twenty-five head of horses, twenty-five ponies, one elephant, and three donkeys. Fifty men look after the horses, twenty-five canvas men, ten property men and thirty-five performers in the dressing room, making a total of one hundred and forty people, all told. In Pen Yan we had a runaway, but nothing was damaged, and our business was fine; although it rained from 4 o'clock, we packed the tents to capacity. On Monday we had another large crowd in Dundee. We are carrying fourteen baggage wagons and thirty-five parade wagons, making a total of forty-nine wagons with the show. Our band consists of fourteen first class musicians, under the direction of Arthur Fordham. Geo. Christy is in charge of the stock; Curley in charge of canvas; Gib Weltt, equestrian director; T. J. Madden is in charge of the concert, which is a feature. The advande consists of twelve men and five wagons, and our paper is all special. Andrew Downie, sole owner; Bert Rutherford, treasurer and manager; Mrs. Andrew Downie, assistant treasurer; C. H. Chamberlin, in charge of cook house, and Mariotte Bros., in charge of privileges. Chas. Neuton, Geo. Haley, Ed. Bowen, Chas. Gerome, Girard Leon and James Kincaid, with his troupe of twelve trained pony clowns; Ricardo, in his leap for life and feats of teeth balancing; Gerard Leon, and his clown elephant; Wm. McCue, in feats of hand balancing; mid air feats on the double trapeze, by George and Georgie; the Spaulding Bros., and trained donkeys; Girard Leon, clown evolutions on the running globe; teeth ascension by Mille La Tena; the canine rider, Trixie, introduced by James ___; the Marriott Bros., introducing novelty juggling and spinning; Jacobs and McCue, in a novelty barrel jumping act; troupe of canine wonders, introducing back somersault dog "Buster"; Spaulding Bros.' pyramid act; George and Georgie, in a comedy acrobatic novelty and their clowning act. The side show is under the personal direction of Edwin Corbette, and they have had a banner day in each town. Roster: Edwin Corbette, mind reading; Nellie Le May, snake charmer; Joe Cramer, rubber neck man; Madam Berry, sword ladder and trained birds. We are featuring "Jumbo," our giant horse, standing 21 1/2 hands high, and "Toko," our midget horse. We have nine cages in the side show, and eleven double deck banners for the ___ one show. We will tour New York State, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. We haven't lost a performance since we took the road. The following musicians are in the band: A. Fordham, leader . . . C. H. Musselman, Geo. Bowers, Ed. Mack, Bert Moore, C. Sherman, H. M. Culbertson, Harry Fetters, Bert Blackmore, T. J. Madden.
The Welsh Brothers Show notes. Five weeks of the current season have been finished, and with very gratifying results. Business has been immense, despite much disagreeable weather. This is virtually and "all new show" this season, new master workingmen in every department, new tents, new performers, and the major portion of the paraphernalia all new and in high class shape. The show was accorded turn away business at nearly every stand in the anthracite region, and at Easton, Pa., and in New Jersey, at Plainfield, Elizabeth and Bayonne. Mt. Vernon and New Rochelle, N.Y., gave us enthusiastic seating capacity. The new territory invaded so far has been profitable, besides the show has been favorably received by the general public, newspapers and the authorities. During our sojourn in the immediate vicinity of the metropolis we were favored with the presence of the following show folks: J. T. McCaddon and party; Lou W. Washburn, M. R. Kunkely, Dr. Crane, Rice and Elmer, and Tom Fay. The big top performance is presented by the Melvin Brothers, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Cousins, the Miles Orton Family (Myron, Norman, Michael, Clarence and Iva), Madame Yucca, Mons. and Mme. Demacos, Madame Colette, George Colby, Wm. Fables and wife, Toto Docrow, J. Frank Mackey, Charles Clark, Joe Kennedy, Joe Wilson, Lamontino Brothers, Sadie Sabel, Lottie Adams, Minnie Williams, and Prof. Alex. Rixton. Jack Cousins is equestrian director, with Wm. ___ master of properties. The concert, after the big show is over, includes: Kennedy and Wilson, Mackey and Clark, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Fables, Miss Demacoa, Madame Yucco, and Pryoll's wrestling bears. The annex and side show roster includes: Miss Lee, mind reader; Adams Sisters, novelty fencers; Adele Johnson, bag puncher; Violet Russell, musical act; "Yankee" Derby, whittlier; Jack Kuhn, tattooed man; Lee's marionettes; T. W. Miller, ventriloquist; Hart's glass blowers; ___'s performing bears, and Prof. Louis Gilbert's jubilee singers and brass band. J. W. Lee is the manager; Geo. E. Laurence, master of canvas; Capt. ___ and Geo. Chapman are the outside ticket solicitors. The working department is handled by the following men: Henry (Uncle Dick) Richards, chief canvas master; Charles Mitchell, chief train master; Dr. T. A. Smith, V. S., boss hostler; Otto Asburn, manager of dining department; Chas. Heidsworth, boss chandelier man. All departments are filled with a full complement of experienced men, and at no time has there been a shortage of help. The big show band and orchestra is under the conductorship of Prof. Vincent Gregory, with twenty musicians. M. H. Welsh, general manager, John T. Welsh, general agent; H. H. Whittler, special agent; V. O. Woodward, manager of advertising car; Phil Harris, twenty-four hour agent; Ben J. ___, treasurer; Edward Kennedy, auditor; Clinton Newton looks after the newspapers and business management. The show is heading for the Eastern States, and will make a brief stay in that section, after which it will go for a indefinite tour of the Western and Southern country. The privilege department is under the management of Frank A. and Chas. Robinson, and is meeting with great success.
Rippel Show notes. We are in our second week, and to say business is good, is putting it mildly. We surely have all smiles for our share. Our company consists of fifteen acts in the big show, and six in the concert. We carry twenty-six people and a band of eight, with Prof. Bert ___ as leader, Alvin Radcliff, advance; ___ Bowers, boss canvas man; Tom McMahon, perch traps and rings; Charlie Rippel, contortion and rings; Miss Leon, juggling; ___ Wert, ventriloquist, Punch; McMahans, trapeze and bars; Jack Rippel, songs and dances; Bob Rippel, clown; Hawkins, clown; Asa Aber, Roman ladder; Mrs. ___, in charge of cook tent, and Bill Dickens, boss hostler.
Notes from Pawnee Bill's Wild West. We are now closing the fourth week of our season. Business since the opening has been phenomenal, despite the fact that we have had some extremely bad weather and constant opposition. Our parade this year is the most novel ever given by any show. At Williamsport we turned people away. This is wonderful when taking into consideraton the fact that we showed there last Fall. At Reading, Pa., we turned people away at both performances. The show is giving entire satisfaction. The "Wild East" is proving an excellent feature, both in the arena and the parade.
Matt D. Leslie writes: "Gabriel Bros. opened their Wild West Show at Delmar Garden, St. Louis, Mo., and gave three performances to an average of 800 people at each performance. Garbriel Bros. have one of the strongest Wild West Shows on the road. They have sixty-five head of stock, which includes twenty bucking horses. They have two tribes of Indians, Sioux and Arapahoes, under Chief Running Bear. Following in a list of cowboys: Jim Gabriel, Kid Gavriel, Bert Scheneks, Slim Hughes, Johnny Riley Stiers, Jack Joyce, Johnny Blocker, Oscar Thompson, Guy Garett, ___ Parker, California Pete Vosburg, and Noah Stewart. Cow girls: Miss Leland, Miss Fossitt, Mabel Dodge and Miss Higbee. We have two more women riders coming on from Oklahoma next week. The band, under the able leadership of Prof. A. M. Fairbrother, includes the following musicians: Frank Shores, Fred Harper, Henry Rutter, Jack Conan, Ed. Conklin, H. A. Wolf, Fred Fearnot, James Adler, Frank Henry, ?. S. Riley, Sam ___, and Joe Wilson. Joe Daigliese, boss hostler, with six men; Matt D. Leslie, announcer, and also makes the opening out front; Barney Gabriel, ticket seller; Henry Loule is in charge of the cook house, with five assistants. The prospects were never better for a good season, as all World's Fair visitors come to the Delmar Garden."
Charles Bartine writes: "Having joined hands with Edward Bergmann, the Bartine Shows will remain at Connersville, Ind., indefinitely. Jointly we open the ___ Hurst Park, one of the most beautiful and picturesque parks in Indiana. It contains more than thirty acres, with boating, bathing, dancing, etc. We are now building a dancing pavilion __x80 feet, a large amphitheatre, with stage scenery and seating capacity for over seven hundred people, for repertory and vaudeville. We are also building refreshment stands, __ stand, etc. Our opening date for the park will be Saturday, June 4.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Show. The show opened at Stillwater, N.Y., May 4, and since then we have been playing winners while going over the road. We all stopped in to greet Dr. J. P. Morgan, of Morgan's "Uncle Tom's Cabin," and while putting up were visited by manager Heath, late of Heath's Dog and Pony Show. Everyone is well with this company. The roster is: Al. F. Wheeler, proprietor and manager; C. E. Wheeler, treasurer; S. Eledright, superintendent; Pop Willis, in charge of stock; Dan Wilson, in charge of big tent, with six assistants; Geo. E. Pickering, in charge of advance wagon No. 1; Chas. C. Sherpard, in charge of advance wagon No. 2, Corwin Zech, trapeze and Spanish rings; Geo. and Frankie Rollin, double slack wire; ?. M. Rood, bounding wire; Normie ___, principal talking and singing clown; Mackey and ___, clowns; Paul Jones, dog, mules, goats and ponies; big show band leader, Prof. M. R. Ashledo, and eight assistants; Elderigh, Coonrod, Rood, Al. F. Wheeler Jr., Franklin, Brooks, Leslie, Scherer; side show under management of John Reh; Chas. Spicer, in charge of canvas; sids show band, Prof. Elederigh; Lottie and her den of snakes; illusion, Joan of Arc; Reh's Punch and Judy; Prof. Mack, magic and handcuff test; S. R. Eledrigh, fire king; Berry marionette theatre; Wheeler's talking pony, Melrose; Ward and Belmont, monkey theater, concert in charge of Ed. Bell, who has also all privileges; Reh and Ray, character sketch team; Prof. Roode, musical act; S. R. Eledreigh, character story teller; ___, song and dance; N. McGriffin, black face song and dances; one cook tent in charge of S. Conroy; free show - high dive by "Rockey," the high diving dog, and Geo. Monroe, slide for life.
Zip, the "What Is It?" and Johnson, "The Gorilla Girl," both of the Forepaugh-Sells Circus, were married at Troy, N.Y., May 11.
Harry Earl, who has been acting in the capacity of press representative of the Great Wallace Circus, will again resume his duties as business manager for Pain's pyrotechnic shows, "Rome" and "Pompeii." W. E. Franklin, general agent for the Wallace Shows, released Mr. Earl, that he might resume his duteis with the Pain people, with whom he has been for a number of seasons past.
New York Clipper, June 4, 1904, pp. 346, 349. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Great De Vilbis writes: "I am in my fourth week with the Sun Bros. R. R. Circus, and am meeting with success, presenting my comedy wire and unsupported ladder act. I make up as Holligan in the parade. I have joined hands with Hardele and Chapin, in their triple aerial bar act."
Kittie Morgank, who recently closed a very successful season with one of Al. W. Martin's companies, has joined the Great Wallace Circus.
The Pan-American Circus opened, to good business, May 14, at Clinton, Mo., and good luck has been with the show all along the route in the Indian Territory. The executive staff is as follows: Chas. E. McKee, general agent; Chas. Ellis, contracting agent; P. S. Mattox, manager advance car No. 1; W. Babcock, manager advance car No. 2; A. Goodman, route rider, and twenty able bodied, hard working bill posters make up the advance staff.
Bonheur Brothers' News. The opening day was set for May 7, and heavily billed for Augusta, Okla. The tents were ereced on the green about one fourth of a mile from the winter quarters, near a llivery barn owned by the show managers. Everything was in readiness for the commencing outside performance, and a big crowd filled every business place in town, hesitating to ocme over and join the gathering people on the show grounds on account of ominous ___ of a hurricane looming up in the Northeast. Many prediced that it would pass away to the North, but they were mistaken. Another black cloud formed in the West, and as they came together orders were given to pull down. The canvas was quickly packed on wagons and rolled into the barn, and all other property made safe, when the storm burst on the town with fierce wind and pelting rain, followed quickly by one of the worst hail storms ever seen in this part of the territory. Windows were broken by the force of the descending hail, and the ground soon became white with the frozen pellets. The storm ceased at fifteen minutes to ten o'clock in the evening, and the pleasure seekers went home in a polar atmosphere, illuminated by fitful moonlight, beaming intermittently from between the racing clouds. At Carmen, one and one-half miles from winter quarters, Monday, May 9, the real opening was made, to packed tents, under a typical circus sky, and the season from then on has been everything that could be desired. J. R. Bonheur made a few days' visit to winter quarters, from May 20 to 25. A. G. Bonheur filled his place as ticket seller during his absence, coming on from the advance to do so. At Goltry, Okla., a jet black pony colt, only twenty inches high, was born to the white Shetland mare, "Sunrice," immediately after the pony drill, in which the mother took part. Its sire is ___. The citizens of Goltry felt much honored by having the equine midget christened "Goltry," for the town where it was born. The name was suggested by Rosaline Wilmarth, a member of the show company.
Will C. Sites, general agent and contractor of Lowery Bros.' Circus, writes: "Business with this show could not be better. Dan McGrafth, ticket seller, formerly of Welsh Bros.' Circus, gets them nightly with the big monkey dance, the leading concert feature. The Lowery Bros. Shows are considered the best shows playing Pennsylvania. They carry sixty people, and one of the leading outside attractions is Prof. Chas. Baker, in his wonderful balloon ascension. Prof. Baker went up at Euardsville, the other night, and the two thousand people who saw the ascension claimed it was the best ever seen in that city. The Shields Bros. (Jim and George), acrobats, have signed for the coming opera house season with my stock company, which will tour the South. The company opens it season in October, in Maryland."
Harry W. Semon has released the Campbell Brothers from their contract with him, owing to the heavy loss incurred by the burning of their animal car, a recent wreck, and the continuous inclement weather. Rain, mud and wind has been a daily occurrance, with but few exceptions. Campbell Brothers and Mr. Semon part on the most friendly terms.
A dispatch from Fort Plain, N.Y., dated May 25, gives the account of a blow down suffered by Hargreaves Circus on that afternoon. A fierce gale struck the village . . . the main tent of the circus was flattened to the earth, carrying down poles, seats and tent rigging upon the audience. Scores were more or less injured and five persons were seriously hurt.
Notes from the Pan-American Show. We opened our season at Clinton, Mo., May 14. The big top is under the direction of Ed. Baldwin, and the side show is under the management of Bert Chipman. Ed. Lemon is bandmaster of the big band. Zelleto, the mystic, is with our show this season, making his second season with this show.
New York Clipper, June 11, 1904, pp. 361, 367. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Byron and Kelly write: "We closed with the Morgan R. R. Circus at Aurora, Ind., May 26, and joined the Monarch Carnival Co. at Midway Park, Troy, O. We are booked for twenty weeks as a free attraction. We have the Juggling Fords (John, Cora and Jessie) with us. They are making a great hit."
Notes from the Silver Dionne Circus. Business is S. R. O. We expect our new top in a few days. It will consist of a hundred foot round top, with two fifty foot middle pieces. Our people are all well and happy. No accidents have occurred as yet. The "gentleman in white" appears in a pleasing act each week. Among our features we have: Lew Sherwood Kyler, wire 'cyclist; Dave Straight, contortionist; the Silver Trio, the Dionne Quartette, the Booth Sisters, Musical Dick, Zara De Fay, Jack Danney, and the Golden Family of six funny clowns. Our stock is a feature of the show. Our silver cornet band is one of the best.
A. C. Abbott closed with B. C. Whitney's "Isle of Spice" Co., in Boston, and signed as contracting agent ahead of Gollmar Bros.' Circus, now making a tour of Minnesota, South Dakota and Nebraska.
Notes from the Frisbee Bros.' R. R. Shows. We closed at Midland, Mich., and reorganized at Bay City, Prof. A. J. Parks having bought a half interest of D. D. Frisbee. The show will be known as the Frisbee & Parks R. R. Dog and Pony Shows, combined with Alden's Vaudeville Circus. Roster: John Frisbee and A. J. Parks, owners; Mrs. J. Frisbee, treasurer; ___ Alden, pilot, with four assistants; Prof. Al. W. Reynolds, leader of band of ten pieces; F. S. ___, L. McClintchy, Al. Cornell, B. Bramble, ?. Culhane, F. Rogers, Floyd McClintchy and Ed. Smally are the men behind the band man; the Bailey Bros., traps and bars; John and Mamie Delaney, tight rope and ladder act; McClintchy Bros., clowns; Prof. A. J. Parks' dogs and ponies; Bessie Lewis, hand balancer; Doc Lemons, contortionist and bars; Dean Wharton, Jap perch; Al. Cornell, monologue; L. McClintchy, tramp specialty; Mamie Delaney, song and dance; J. H. Howard, lightning sketch, and Mrs. J. H. Howard, moving pictures. Blondy Davis, kid show; Kid Massey, privileges. We eat and sleep in our own palace cars.
Ward Kelly, treasurer of Norris & Rowe's Circus for the past two seasons, has been seriously ill at his home in Pasadena, Cal., and was unable to work for six weeks past. He is recovering rapidly, however, and rejoined the circus again in Seattle, for the rest of the summer.
Will C. Sites, general agent and contractor of Lowery Bros. Shows, writes: "While playing Lansford, Pa., the following people, all members of the above show, were admitted to the F. O. Eagles, of Lansford: Will C. Sites, James Shields, acrobat; Marvelous Turner, Walter Frey, singing clown; Prof. Annainitti and John Seymour. The show is playing to good business."
Notes and roster of Gollmar Bros.' Shows. Gollmar Bros., sole proprietors; Chas. A. Gollmar, manager; B. F. Gollmar, treasurer; Fred C. Gollmar, advance manager; W. S. Gollmar, equestrian manager; Harry Wertz, assistant equestrian manager; Dr. J. E. Fitzgerald, press agent and orator; Frank McCort, license adjuster; C. A. Primrose, railroad contractor; W. H. Dilly, manager of advance car No. 1; George F. Cable, manager of advance car No. 2; George Irving, manager of annex; J. Fitzgerald, manager of concert; Ed. Jamison, steward; Wm. Adair, mail man; Ed Maher, candy stand privilege; John Whire, front doorman; Charley Bales, boss canvas man; Jim Ward, boss of annex top; Fred Hopper, boss of menagerie top; George Holland, boss hostler; Chas. ___, assistant boss hostler; George N. O'Brien and M. A. Heuston, knife board privilege; Chas. Heidlerberg, calliope player; W. H. Knight, advertising agent; Joah Causay, master of transportation; Al. Jones, boss chandelier man; Emery Stiles, boss animal man. Performers in the show: Wm. and Hattie Adair, aerialists; De Novas, aerialists; Peter Family, acrobats; Jas. Dougherty, strong man; the Dohns, novelty tight wire; Peter Maxwell and Griffin Trio, aerial horizontal bars; the Silbers, aerial act; Little Rooney, equestrienne; Wm. De Van, equestrian; Alex. Lowande, equestrian; Fred Seibert, equestrian; Joseph La Rex, contortionist; Fred Easy, contortionist; Ray Martine, juggler; Louise Zellno, juggler; Mrs. Wm. Adair, juggler; Zella, and balancer; Otto Weaver, hand balancer; Arthur Berse, dancing rope; Carrie Lowande, rolling globe; Potter and Harris, aerialists; Easy Bros., contortionists; Mr. and Mrs. Harry Brandon, revolving ladder; ___ and Fair, revolving ladder; Gollmar Bros., herd of performing elephants, Kid and Sultan, rope walking horses; Harry Brandon, Fred Easy, Henry Potter, Arthur ___, Chas. Griffin, George Zella, Joseph La Rex, Joe ___, Fred Lambert and Chas. Silber, clowns. Concert people: Harry Brandon, Potter and Harris, Harry Earle, Ray Martine, Daisy La More, and Lizzie Freeman. Annex people: George Irving, magician; ___, Punch and ventriloquist; Mlle Clio, snake enchantress; Mlle. Mielis, ladder of swords; Harry Hall, needle king; Le Roy's White Moors, Early and Breen, comedians; Mr. and Mrs. George Irving, mind readers; Madam La Belle, fortune teller; Jennie La Rue, vocalist and dancer. Ben Horner's band: Ben Horner, director, with the following musicians: Dell Smith, J. L. Barry, C. B. Roberts, Ed. Wall, Geo. Espey, Allie McIntosh, Chas. ___, Chas. Hartel, P. Karper, Bert Gollmar, Russell Hartman, J. S. Erickson, otto Deming, Claud Holcomb, C. D. Whitney, Frank Munger, Ralph ___, C. L. Thomas, ___ Eckert, Karl ___, Geo. Howard, ___, Burt Jackson and Steve Person. The show opened April 30, and has been doing a fine business.
Welsh Bros.' Show notes. The states of Connecticut and Massachusetts are giving us first class business, and the show is making an unmistakable hit. Stamford, South Norwalk, Ansonia, Meriden and New Britain, all in Connecticut being especially noteworthy for extra big business. Memorial Day was spent at Southbridge, Mass., where three "big show" performances were given, morning, afternoon and evening, all to good crowds. Lee's Supplementary Shows (annex) gave seventeen performances on this occasion. Another new fifty foot middle piece has been added to the main tope, which will now enable us to handle the crowds in better shape. Since leaving winter quarters we have added twelve horses and mules to the equine department, also a pair of exceptionally fine menage horses to the circus programme. Although the performance we are now giving is unusually meritorious and strong we have decided to add a half dozen more acts, including several riding displays, which will enable us to give a first class two ring show. All of the people with the aggregation are well and happy, and everything is moving along with vim and in a most harmonious manner. San Barham, Ali and Johnson, and Toto Ducrow recently joined the show.
Chas. Hopper, singing and talking comedian, is with the Great Eastern Circus, doing singing clown, and a black face turn in the concert.
Frank M. Weeks, singer, buck and wing dancer and banjoist, has joined the Doremus Tin Top Circus, as principal comedian.
New York Clipper, June 18, 1904, pp. 387, 393. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Lawrence Anchor, contortionist and flying perch expert, died at St. Paul, Minn., June 4, while on his way to rejoin Sun Bros. R. R. Shows. While doing his act at East Redford, May 24, he fell from his perch, and sustained injuries which resulted in his death. He had been with J. W. Goodrich and several other attractions, and the past two seasons was with Sun Bros. Shows.
Notes from Welsh Bros.' Newest Great Show. Continued first class business is the rule with this old reliable show. The towns in the immediate vicinty of Boston have been unusually good for us, and the show has made many new friends. Dr. J. T. Johnson, side show orator, and Girard Leon, the well known clown and advertising jester, are recent additions to our forces.
Notes from Andrew Downie's Big One Ring Circus. Until a few days ago this show has had extremely bad weather, but has, nevertheless, done an enormous business. We have not missed a performance, and only one parade since opening, and that was due to the terrific rain storm, which, however, did not keep the people from attending the show. . . .
New York Clipper, June 25, 1904, pp. 411, 413. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Matt D. Leslie writes: "Business with Gabriel Bros.' Wild West Show has exceeded all expectations. On Saturdays and Sundays we are compelled to turn crowds of people away. We are congratulated on all sides on having one of the strongest and best Wild West exhibitions in the country. Georgia Williams is a new addition to the show, and has given great satisfaction. Our bucking horses, ridden by the cowboys, have made a big success in St. Louis. Gabriel Bros. offer anywhere from a hundred to five hundred dollars that their cowboys will ride any horse that is brought to them. Everybody is well except Slim Higley, who had an accident while riding that will lay him up a few days. One of our Indians fell in the Indian race, and broke his ankle, but is getting along very well now. While other managers are complaining over on the Pike at the World's Fair about business, Gabriel Bros. are buying new horses and enlarging their show. Gabriel Bros. are already making plans to put out their own Wild West Show next summer. They will have a ten car show and everything will be brand nw and up to date."
Joe Kennedy, of Kennedy and Fanning, while playing Naugatuck, Conn., with Welsh Bros.' Circus, was initiated into the ___.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Consolidated Railroad Shows. Always good for Mr. Sautelle's circus, the East this season is panning out larger receipts than were ever before known. Records being shattered all along the line, even in many places where other shows have been strongly billed in opposition. Neither competition or inclement weather have affected our business. Encouraged by these conditions, Mr. Sautelle recently bought five elephants, several smaller animals, five large tableaux wagons and a new sixty foot flat car. He has also enlarged his shows in other ways. There has also been large increases among the juvenile family in the menagerie, late arrivals being the litter of lion cubs born in Waterbury, Conn., and a peccary, born Wednesday in Waltham, Mass.
Notes from Pawnee Bill's Wild West. Chas. E. Taylor is taking tickets on the front door of the big show. Eva Mitchell has charge of the opera chairs, and does her specialty in the concert.
Harry Streif writes: "I joined the Campbell Bros. Show, at Sioux City, Ia., May 18, as a clown and to do advertising. I have been out of the show business for six years, but was with the Campbell Bros. fourteen years ago."
W. C. St. Clair is in charge of "Flying Squadron" with the Great Wallace Shows this season, with the following assistants: . . . R. A. Post, Chas. Prival, and A. G. Dow. Everybody carries a card, and all are in good standing, six different locals being represented.
Notes from Walter L. Main's Circus. After a long siege of rain and mud we have had a run of fine weather. Business is very good, setting people in straw about one performance a day. Tuesday two of our baby lions died with a tumor in the larynx, but the third was saved by an operation performed very successfully our popular young physician, Dr. ?. S. Crosby, of Baltimore. He cut open the larynx and removed the tumor, and today the little cub is as playful as ever. Major Rhinebeck has stared a new order. He calls it Foxy Grandpa Lodge, and a beautiful head adorns the major's boat, but on close inspection the observer is showered with water, and it goes, as it is the major's privilege. Our looping the loop is drawing big crowds to the concert, and is proving a great attraction. There has been very little sickness with the troupe. Mr. Nelson Sr. was ill for a week, but nothing very serious, and is now working in the Nelson Family act.
Notes from Bert Silver Circus. We are packing the tents every night. We carry twenty-five people and twenty head of stock. After July 4 we will add a 30ft. middle piece in our canvas and four more horses.
Grace A. Hamilton, musical performer, has signed with the Sells & Downs Show, and has been out eight weeks, playing calliope in the parade, doing a musical turn in the side show, and taking part in the big show.
Campbell Bros.' Show notes. Our readers will no doubt remember the sad occurance of the untimely death of young Bert Atkinson, who, in attempting to climb upon a moving wagon while in a state of intoxication, was killed during the parade of Campbell Bros.' Circus and Menagerie, at Morris, Minn., last year, and whose funeral expenses were defrayed by the Campbell Bros. They have ordered a monument to be erected at the grave of Bert Atkinson, the cost of same being $125, part of this sum being contributed by the members of the show. Arrangements have been made to hold services at the grave on Thursday, June 23, the date the Campbell Bros. will exhibit at Morris, Minn. this season.
Kid Koster, of Local No. 16, has been transferred from the No. 1 opposition brigade to the No. 1 car of the Walter L. Main Show, for a few days only.
John J. Deer recently returned from Africa on account of ill health . . . there with Texas Jack's Wild West. The Deer Family are [with] Jack's Show, and are in good health, doing good business.
Notes from Ringling Brothers' Shows. After the Chicago engagement of twenty-two days at the Coliseum, the big show opened its road season at Champaign, Ill., on Friday, April 22, with Decatur, Ill., following on Saturday, both to big business. St. Louis was played the week of April __, to the largest receipts ever taken by the Ringlings in that city. Saturday, April 30, our closing day, also marked the opening of the big Exposition, and was a big surprise. We had looked for a light house, but an afternoon turnaway and every seat filled at the night house was the unlooked for result, and went far to prove that the people appreciated the many additions to the big show. Indianapolis, Hamilton, Dayton, Springfield, Columbus, and Newark were visited during the week of May 2, all to glorious business, turnaways being recorded at Indianapolis, Columbus and Dayton. Newark, on Saturday, was a surprise to even the oldest inhabitant, as no event had ever caused greater crowds to visit Newark. The week of May 9 was filled at Wheeling, W. Va.; Steubenville, Youngstown and Cleveland, O.; Erie, Pa., and Buffalo, N.Y., all to increased business ove previous visits. At both Cleveland and Wheeling thousands were turned away, and at Buffalo a heavy all day rain did not affect the coming of the crowds. The run from Buffalo and Rochester was made in a constant downpour, the lot being practially under water and none other available. It turned out to be a veritable swamp, and every visitor on Monday was immersed in mud to their shoe tops, but neither the mud nor the rain kept them away, and the seating capacity was taxed at both performances. Syracuse, Utica and Albany, N.Y.; Springfield and Worcester, Mass., completed the largest week's business ever done by a circus company in a week of one day stands, daily turnaways being experienced at Albany, Springfield and Worcester. The week of May 23 was devoted to Boston, to a wonderful business, which on Saturday night compelled the auditor to enter a new record upon the books, the receipts being the largest ever taken by the Ringlings in a week stand. Twelve performances were given, nine of them turnaways. Sunday, May 29, a long run was made in Plattsburg, N.Y., where the show gave an afternoon performance Decoration Day to a magnificent business, after which the circus was transported to Montreal for a two days' engagement, opening the Canadian tour. The business there was a revelation, being the largest ever done there, and Ottawa on Thursday was equally as big, the people being turned away in hundreds in a pouring rain. Kingston and Bellville completed the week with an overflowing attendance. To Toronto was devoted Monday and Tuesday of the week of June 6. At both performances on Monday the entire seating capacity of 15,800 was exhausted, and thousands were turned away, unable even to secure sitting or standing space in the big tent. The result was that at both performances on Tuesday the seats were crowded to their utmost capacity. Hamilton, on Wednesday, business was tremendous in a steady downpour of rain; in fact, nothing short of a tornado could have kept them away, and the good deeds of the Ringlings the year before were well remembered. Berlin, on Thursday, gave us an afternoon turnaway and a corking night house. London, Friday, was better than ever before, and the Canadian tour was concluded at Chatham, on Saturday, to a bumper business. The run of 192 miles to Fort Wayne, Ind., was made over the Wabash nicely, the first section, or flying squadron, left Chatham at 10 o'clock Saturday night, and ferried across the river at Detroit, inspected by the U. S. custome officials, and pulled into Fort Wayne at 6:30 on Sunday morning, which is the latest arrival this circus train has ever made. The last of the five sections, the sleepers, arrive at 10:30. Last week the big show visited Fort Wayne and South Bend, Ind.; Joliet, Rockford and Kewanee, Ill., and Davenport, Ia., to increased business over any previous engagement. Fort Wayne, Joliet, Rockford, Kewanee and Davenport were especially big, with daily turnaways at the latter three cities. From Rockford to Kewanee we were handled over the C. B. & Q, making a run of 167 miels, and the parade left the Kewanne lot just as advertised at 10 a.m. This week will be filled in Wisconsin, in cities where the show first saw the light of day, where everyone knows its history, what it was, how it grew, and what it is now.
New York Clipper, July 2, 1904, pp. 433, 437. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle Show. Tuesday, June 21, was a red letter day for the Eagles at Newburyport, Mass. Through the hustle of C. C. ___ and bandmaster ?. J. Chamberlain, both birds of the real feather, seventeen new members were admitted to the fellowship of Eagles at the above named place. Newburyport Aerie was organized April 4, 1904, and is in a flourishing condition. It has a membership of about two hundred. The following who are with the Sautelle Shows, were admitted: musicians W. Reeger, Geo. Taft, E. Sturgis, Elmore Burke, Geo. Hoffman, T. B. Schultz and David Lowery. Performers and agents: Ralph Lane, Fred Markle, Edward ___, Benj. Grossman, Arthur Eldridge, Sam Ullman, P. F. Phillips, Dan Travis, C. C. Raymond, ___. This makes the Sautelle big show band an Eagle band, and one of the first, if not the only, "Eagle" band on the road. Everyone here is happy and doing well. There are now about one hundred Eagles with this show, with fifteen more lined up for the first opportunity to be admitted to the grandest order on earth.
Lola (Topsy) Mitchell and Flora Stephens report that they are with the Great Van Amburg Show this season and not the Pan-American Show as has been stated.
G. W. Christie and Steve Vandervere have closed with the Andrew Downie Circus. G. W. Christie closed on account of his wife's ill health and has gone to his home on the James River, Virginia. Steve Vandervere accompanied him, to go into the poultry business.
Item from the Van Amburg Shows. Business in Nebraska has been good, and wather has been splendid since the rains. Everything is now in good running order. We had a bad wreck from the storm last month. Several new people joined last week, also an addition of new horses and baggage wagons. A new sleeping car is expected before July 4. Everybody well, and busines good.
Sig. Sautelle's Consolidated Railroad Show notes. The eighth week of the present season finds these shows still floating upon the front wave of prosperity. Even in the cities and towns visited last year by this show our business has been at the top notch. Opposition with Pawnee Bill and local celebrations in no way cut into our receipts, and the "Guv'nor's" bank account continues to pile up. The past and present enviable reputation of the Sig. Sautelle tented amusement enterprise, its flashy and heavy billing ahead, and its full mile parade, each contribute in bringing out two large audiences daily, and already Mr. Sautelle is making arrangements for enlarging his show buildings. A new flat car and three extra large tableau wagons have been ordered, and are expected to arrive early in July. The menagerie is to have another middle piece, making it a six pole top, and a third fifty fott section is to be added to the big top. Under the personal supervision of ___ Reed the big show programme is presented in a snappy and gingerly manner, with not a second's wait during the two hours consumed in its delivery. . . . The annex, under the management of James A. Morrow, is doing a world of business at each stand. This is due entirely to the fact that in number of attractions Sig. Sautlee's side show is equalled by few and excelled by none, and the same is true of the quality of the features offered. There are twenty platforms occupied by young ladies, and there is also a colored minstrel troupe of fourteen men and women.
Notes from Tony Lowande's American Circus. Thus far the season at Santiago, Cuba, has been a record breaker, as the books show the business has almost doubled that of any season we ever put in on the Isle of pines. We sailed from New York Oct. 24, opening in Marianno Nov. 2, and for five months did not lose a show, excepting two legal holidays. Our tent is a 100ft. round top with a fifty and a forty and a two pole dressing room. The ten heavy wagons that came down with us have held up through wet and dry weather. Most of the performers are American, and of course it is run on the American plan, having our own horses, wagons and train. The lions and elephants have proved great drawing cards. The members of the company are as follows: the Carl Dammann Troupe, Lowande's lions and elephants, D'Alma's dogs and monkeys, the ___, acrobats; Eddie Serra, combination net and rings, with other act for change; Chas. ___, animal trainer; the Stantons, double bar and trapeze; Frank Fay, hand balancing, with changes; Alton and Morton, comedy acrobats and wire; Mr. and Mrs. Lowande, riders; Fisher and Stone, comedy revolving ladders, and five native clowns; Tony Lowande, owner . . . Sr. A. Louise, advance; Dr. E. Fernanda, treasurer; Sr. V. ___, ticket seller; Paul D'Alma, equestrian director; C. Haley, boss canvas man; Chas. Maureil, boss hostler. On June 13 we had an awful storm, lasting six hours. The city was flooded for five hours, blowing down houses, killing fifty people, and wrecking the fast train from Havana just before it arrived, killing two. Our tent was up, and stood the entire storm without a break. All we suffered was the loss of our show. We closed our engagement at Havana, May __, jumping to Puerto Principe for ten days, and opened at Santiago, Saturday, July 11. Have only a few more weeks on the Island, then go to Porto Rico. . . .
Notes from Ringling Brothers' World's Greatest Shows. The past week, with the exception of a heavy shower at Milwaukee on Monday, and a terrific downpour at fond du Lac on Friday, has been delightfully spent among the lakes and dells of Wisconsin, on green lots usually surrounded by shade trees. The Milwaukee ground utilized this year was the old baseball park on North Avenue, at the corner of Sixteenth Street. It is very near to the central portion of the city, easily reached by all car lines, and was used for the first time by the Ringlings this year for show purposes. The heavy downpour of rain in the afternoon did not affect the attendance, and two turnaway crowds was the result. Janesville on Tuesday, Oshkosh Wednesday, Appleton Thursday, Fond du Lac Friday, and Madison Saturday, all gave us afternoon turnaways and big night houses. The Northwestern Railroad on Saturday brought in over one thousand excursionists from the winter quarters, Baraboo, and many friendly greetings were exchanged between our people and the folks from Baraboo. The mechanical stake driver, a novel invention, is one of the interesting adjuncts of the big show this year. It is a sort of baby pile driver, and is perched upon a wagon which is also used for carrying the stakes. The apparatus is driven around the grounds, is operated by a four horse power gasoline motor, which, together with one man, drives all the stakes of the big shops, restaurants, cook tents, horse tents, dressing rooms, menagerie, and all the smaller tents, and usually completes half the circle of the big tent before the sledge gangs are ready to perform their share of the stake driving. The stake driver strikes sixty-five blows to the minute, and as only fifteen blows are necessary to sink in a stake properly, the advantage in time and hard work saved by this machine can be readily realized. It is not intended that the stake driver will cut down the working department of the show in the least, as fully as many men as before will be required to handle the heavy canvas. It is simply a labor saving device that the Ringling Bros. have secured so that the men may have easier work these hot summer mornings. "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy," indeed. And with the advantage of the many labor saving inventions which have been introduced by the Ringlings lately, together with cleanly sleeping quarters, three excellent meals, which are always served on time, as the Flying Squadron now makes a breakfast a seven o'clock possibility always, the canvas men's and other laborer's conditions around the big show is a great deal different than in past years. The men have plenty of time to themselves, and as we are always full handed, indications point to a general feeling of contentment in the working department. A long Sunday run brings us to Minneapolis, where we will exhibit Monday, with the sister city, St. Paul, on Tuesday, after which we start on a short tour of Minnesota.
Roster of the advance brigade No. 1, the great Van Amburg Show: E. L. Brannan, general agent and railroad contractor; Don McKenzie, car manager; J. A. Jones, lithographer; Frank Thompson, boss bill poster, with the following assistants: F. Worth, W. R. Perry, D. Miller, E. Steele, A. M. Dent, W. Lewis, D. M. Peters, Frank Rogers and J. M. Smith. Second brigade: J. M. Wynns, mangager, with these assistants: J. R. Davis, Henry Moore, H. B. Lowe, bill posters; L. A. Cardington, route rider.
New York Clipper, July 9, 1904, p. 453. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Beasley & Doma's Combines Shows. June 27 we showed at Pocahontas, Ia., with our "Onita" show. Campbell Bros. gave two performances to the smallest attendance in their history. We visited them and were royally entertained. Nearly ever performer and musician visited our "Onita" show and pronounced it grand.
The Marinellas, ring experts, write: "We joined Sig. Sautlee's Circus at Homer, N.Y., April __, after closing over the Western vaudeville houses. We are booked up solid until Feb. 27, when we will sail for London, Eng., and the continent."
Archie Marvelle, of the Four Marvelles, with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, writes: "Edward Silbon, of the troupe of aerialists, Siegrist and Silbon, features with this show, accomplished the marvelous feat of turning four complete somersaults into the net, at each performance in Marion and Portland, Ind., when the above show recently exhibited there. He is the first person to master it."
Notes from Andrew Downie's Shows. The show is still doing a phenomenal business, although we have had rain every day this week. At Attamont, N.Y., we were compelled to close the ticket wagon on account of the rush of people, and at Coxsackie we had the same kind of business. Charles Clark, a four horse driver, in coming on the lot at Catskill, fell from a wagon that he was driving and fractured his leg. He was immediately taken care of by our manager, Mr. Downie, and he was sent on the 12 o'clock train, in care of a nurse, to the hospital at Kingston. We are now headed for New Jersey.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. We are now in our eighth week and have played to excellent business ever since our opening, conclusive evidence that the wagon show is not a thing of the past. Roster: Al. F. Wheeler, manager; C. E. Wheeler, treasurer; Sol. R. Eldredge, superintendent; Chas. Spicer, in charge of canvas; John Labountie, boss hostler; Gus Payne, chandeliers; Chas. Snyder, in charge of dogs, ponies and small stock. Performers: Corvin Zeck, rings and trapeze; Claude M. Rood, stilt wire walker; Norman McGriff, singing and talking clown; Russell Bros., casting act, and Prof. Wheeler's troupe of dogs, ponies, donkeys and baboons. Side show, under the management of John L. Reh: the Great Eldredge, fire act; Lottie, snake charmer; Prof. Weston, magic talking horse, "Melrose Maid"; Reh's Punch and Judy, and several illusions. Our band and orchestra is under the direction of Prof. M. R. Ashley, and includes the following musicians: S. R. Eldredge, Al. F. Wheeler Jr., Leroy Dekin, C. M. Rood, Leland Wheele and Jas. Russell. Advance: Geo. E. Pickering, general agent, in charge of first brigade, with two bill posters; Chas. E. Shepard, in charge of second wagon, with one assistant. Our season will extend to Oct. 1.
Notes from the Great Wallace Shows. We have been out nine weeks of this, our twenty-fourth annual season, to excellent business. Ten States have already been covered, 9,270 miles traveled, and in every town and city where we have exhibited have been entirely satisfactory. The executive staff is: B. E. Wallace, sole owner and manager; Chas. Corey, business manager; Bernard L. Wallace, treasurer; Col. Phil. Ellsworth, manager of vaudeville annex; Gerald Fitzgerald, press representative; John O. Talbott, adjustor; J. B. Daily, master of transportation; Wm. Oldknow, boss canvas man, with one hundred and fifteen men; Al. Morris, steward; John W. Morgan, chief detective. Among the performers are: the Heras Family, seven in number, acrobats; the Melasso Troupe, the Three Great Nevaros, the Delno-Garnelle Trio, Tetsuawni's Imperial Japanese Troupe (ten people); Allen Sisters, Three Palos, Herr Beckers's troupe of performaing animals (elephant, pony, boarhound and baboon); Eight Dillameads, Four Nelsons, Earl Sisters, Emma Donavin, Minnie Pierce, Madame Marantella and her troupe of high jumping and cake walking horses, including St. Patrick, Major McKinley and Bhilliantine, and Zingarella. The clowns are: Royer Bros., Jarvis Bros., Lon Maone, Wm. Henchey, Ab. Johnson, Nichols and Sterling, Al. Singer, Jack Conelli, Wm. Dorney, Sheppard and Hugo. Prof. Bronson's cornet band of thirty men scores strongly everywhere. In the concert are: Archie Royers' Minstrel Co., Jarvis Bros., Al. Singer, Hazel Earl, Orr and Marre, and Durand and Wheeler. The vaudeville annex has its own twelve piece band, a swell front, consisting of fifteen double deck banners, a seven piece ladies' orchestra, and the following attractions: Mlle. Zazel and her performing snakes, Prof. Chasm Page, the Belle Fatima troupe of Oriental dancing girls, Howell, John Zappa, the animated beauty dream, Mlle. Sarah, and the French lady athletes. The advance is in charge of Col. W. E. Frankling, general agent; J. P. Fagin, railroad contractor; J. P. Lynch, special contractor; Al. Osborn, manager car No. 1; Fred Morgan, manager car No. 2; Kid St. Clair, manager opposition brigade, and W. W. Parmellee, special agent.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Consolidated Railroad Shows. Directly after the parade at Gardner, Mass., the wind blew a gale and leveled the big top, horse tent and side show canvas. James Morrow, manager of the latter, had about "cleaned up" the lot with his morning opening, and the annex was packed with patrons. By a miracle only one boy was injured in the blown down, and he was but slightly hurt by one of the side poles. No afternoon show was given, and the night performance was cut, owing to the stiff breeze. The high wind continued through the night and all the following day, making it necessary to omit the afternoon shows at Winchendon, Mass. Sunday opened clear and cool for the troupers at Keene, N.H. Marguerite Gregory, our seven year old trapeze performer, who fell from her bar in Franklin Falls, N.H., June 25, has nearly recovered from the effects of the accident, and will shortly resume work with her sister. Mrs. Belle Clark, with "Black Beauty," and France Reed, with "Juliet," open the big show programme, and this double menage act is one of the real hits of the show. Mrs. Olga Howard's principal act receives the warmest kind of praise all along the line. Among the others who never fail to please are: the Heuman Bicycle Trio, ___, the Homans, the Coles, Prof. John White, John White Jr., Zenta and Jose Marty. The school of clowns include: George Tompkins, Trembley, Eddie Lay, Charles Bell, John Holman, Angelo Vanturio, Fred Johnson and Jim Sternon. Each is decidedly original as a fun maker. After two stands in Vermont these shows will return to Massachusetts for a week, and then go into New York for a brief stay.
William Todt writes: "The show is doing nicely. Chas. La Bird, Henry Hall and Will C. Sites are late additions to our forces."
Harry R. Moore, formerly press agent of Campbell Bros.' Circus, is the pilot of T. I. Cash's Carnival Co., of St. Paul, Minn.
New York Clipper, July 16, 1904, p. 473. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes and roster of Lee & Richmond's New Model Shows. We opened our season July 9, under the management of Jack Lee and M. M. Richmond, a well known hotel keeper, of New Holland, Pa. The roster of the show is: Jack Lee, manager; M. M. Richmond, treasuer; Cora M. Richmond, Gertie Lee, John Lee, Baby Lee and Master Clarence Richmond. The clowns are: Al. Gaston and Walter Frey, the Shields Bros. (Jim and George). Senor Albamico, rings and contortionist; Lemar and Delmar, horizontal bars and barrel jumping; Prof. Annetti and hsi band of twelve pieces, Prof. Lee's troupe of dogs and ponies, and the La Roys, in Roman statuary. A free tight rope ascension . . . Stock under the charge of Shorty Lewis, with six assistants. Will C. Sites has charge of the advance No. 1, with H. Davis, ___, Jim Holland and Perry Davis. Canada Bill has charge of the advance No. 1, with Charles Lewis, Wm. Lacy and Perry Lang.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Consolidated Railroad Shows. These shows have attained such enormous size that considerable difficulty is experienced from time to time in securing lots large enough to accommodate all of the canvas. Business continues big at each stand, and many new records are being established along the line. At Keene, N.H., July 4, the receipts were the largest ever taken by Mr. Sautelle on the national holiday. July 6 we exhibited in Hinsdale, N.H., a small town just across the river from Brattleboro, Vt., and despite the latter State's interferance, Brattleboro streets were paraded. Boss canvas man Lew Foster fractured a bone in his left foot July _, and will be obliged to use a cane in getting about for some time to come. General manager Frank A. Robbins was in New York a few days last week chasing railroad contracts through some ripe territory. Harry Chapman, manager of the uptown wagon, has recovered fully from the effects of a snake bite on the left hand. There are now over one hundred Eagles with the Nine Consolidated, seventeen were recently initiated in Newburyport, Mass., and nearly as many in ___. Mr. Sautelle has placed an order for ten elephants, making seventeen all told for his herd. He has also contracted for some zebras and other hay animals. . . . The large double annex, under the personal supervision of James A. Morrow, is proving a highly gratifying winner at every stand, and its excellent performance and high class features aid materially in boosting the big show business.
Notes from Buffalo Bill's Wild West. Talk about innovations, our new wireless telegraph is a wonder. . . . While "looping the gap," at Mansfield, June 27, Carter (James Davis), the cowboy 'cyclist, met with a serious mishap. His wheel struck one of the electric lights, and although he cleared the gap, he landed sideways, precipitating him forward on his face, which was badly cut and bruised. He is "game" to the backbone, however, and refused to be sent to the hospital. This makes three men we have had injured doing this act this season. The new route cards are out. Walter Beckwith is still at the head of the route card trust . . . The detective with the Wild West is assistant superintendent C. C. Murphy, of Pinkerton's New York office. This is Mr. Murphy's fourth tour of Great Britain, having been previously with Barnum & Bailey, 1898 and '99. His acquaintance with the police official over here is very extensive, and the light fingered gentry knowning that the show is protected, are conspicous by their absence. Charles S. Wells is the contracting press agent ahead, and Frank Small has charge of the press business back with the show. They are doing splendid work, which is verified by the excellent notices which the show receives. Weather is fine, health good, and busines at the top notch in all departments.
J. S. Kritchfield, bandmaster of the Jno. H. Sparks Shows, was given his third degree in Masonry, June 24, by Marseilles Lodge, No. 417, A. F. and A. M.
The following communication has been received at this office, and is given verbatim: "The undersigned equestrians, members of the Ringling Bros.' Circus, while at practice on the morning of May 28, at Boston, Mass., successfully accomplished the difficult feat of six people jumping upon one horse from the ground while the horse was in motion. This is the first time the feat has been accomplished in any country, to our knowledge. The jumpers went up rotation, as follows: Frank Eldred, No. 1; Orin Davenport, No. 2; Frank Schadell, No. 3; Jack Eldred, No. 4; Homer Hobson, No. 5; Gill Eldred, No. 6. Witnessed by Rhoda Royal, equestrian manager for Ringling Bros.' Circus."
Chas. O. Koster has closed with the Walter L. Main Shows, and will take the No. 1 opposition brigade with the Sells & Downs Shows, Local No. 16.
Frank Wilson, an attache of Ringling Bros.' Circus, was drowned on July 2, in the Chippawa River, in the vicinity of where the circus tents were pitched, at Eau Claire, Wis.
Notes from Ringling Brothers' World's Greatest Shows. A pleasant week has been spent in the Northwest, and equally pleasant have been the finanical returns. Minneapolis started the ball rolling on Monday, with two turnaways; St. Paul did the same on Tuesday; Mankato, in a hail storm, was excellent Wednesady; heavy rain didn't keep the people away at Rochester on Thursday; Winona, on Friday, gave us an afternoon turnaway, and a capacity night house, and Eau Claire finished the week with two overflowing houses on Saturday. A Sunday run brings the show to Duluth, where the glorious Fourth will be properly celebrated by the appearance of the World's Greatest. Two leagues of baseball clubs have been organized around the show in the past month. The fever started at Plattsburg, N.Y., on Decoration Day. At first there were only two nines, the clowns and the acrobats, but from this beginning a first class league was started. Next the other performers got together, and at Ft. Wayne the Ringling Baseball Association was organized with eight clubs, as follows: acrobats, riders, bicyclists, clown, hippodrome riders, aerialists, front door men, and the concert performers. The games, as played daily, were, of course, watched by the workingmen, who thoroughly enjoyed the sport, and realizing there was fun to be had for the taking, they also started in a modest way, and now have a league of their own, composed of eight clubs, made up as follows: property men, animal men, canvas men, light men, train men, elephant men, seat men, and the waiters. To illustrate how the baseball fever has spread over the show, the choristers, employed in the spectacle, "Jerusalem," are getting up a club with the sole intention of beating the ballet girls, who have been practicing with a cast off outfit belonging to one of the league nines. Every day a half dozen or more games are in progress, and one does not have to go far to find good amusement. While Mrs. Robert Meek was paying her husband, the superintendent of ring stock, a visit, the men working in Mr. Meeks' department presented her with a gold watch and chain. Lew Graham, the orator with the show, made a pretty presentation speech which brought tears to the eyes of the genial "Bob" and his wife.
Pan-American Show notes. We spent the glorious Fourth of July at Parker, S.D., giving two performances on that date before two large crowds. The interior of the big show tent was decorated with flags of various nations and "Old Glory" fluttered in the breeze from the tops of the centre poles. From Parker we went to Yankton, where we were fortunate enough to be on the opening day for registering for a homestead in the Sioux ceded lands of the ___ Reservation, and quite a number of us took advantage of the opportunity and registered. The show is doing a nice business, only a few performances having been lost, on account of rainy weather, and only onefullday, and that was on June 3, when we were billed to exhibit at El Dorado Springs, Mo., but couldn't reach our destination on account of the tracks being under water. Zelleno, the mystic, handles the theatrical papers on the show, and he sees that the Old Reliable reaches us every Saturday morning.
New York Clipper, July 30, 1904, pp. 519, 523. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Welsh Bros.' Newest Great Shows. The fifteenth week of the current season finds this aggregation in continued prosperity and everything moving along serenely. The show is back in Massachusetts, and is receiving its usual cordial reception. . .. . Capt. Dave Latilp, the high diver, who presents his act as a free outside attraction, introduced for the first time at Hillsboro, N.H., on July 18, a ladder 118 feet in height, actual measurement. The captain ascended the ladder to the top, and made the dive backward, executing a double somersault before landing into the net. It certainly was a remarkable achievement. Capt. Latilp will continue to give his act for the rest of the circus season, after which he goes to Havana, Cuba, for an indefinite engagement. The Miles Orton Troupe, which includes Norman, Myron, Michael, Clarence and Iva Orton, with their ___ of equestric, novelty and aerial acts, are among the big hits of the main show performance. The double hurdle mule riding act by George Colby and Norman Orton, the Two Demacos, star Roman ring speciality; Mr. and Mrs. William Fables, with their giant rooster and trained bantam; Madam Yucca, feature Samsonian act; the Bros. ___, acrobats; Madame Colette's cake walking horses, and the "funny fellows contingent," including Toto Du Crow, J. Frank Mackey, Charles Clark, Wm. Fables, Joe Wilson, Joe Kennedy, Comical Brown and Myron Orton, are all conspicuous for favorable recognition at every performance. Lew Nichols, manager of the annex and side shows, has added to his programme: May Cole, serpent and alligator act; Belle Johnson, bag puncher; Viloa Hallen, musical act; and Harry Williams, glass blower. Mr. Nichols is doing a big business, and his entertainments are giving first class satisfaction. Prof. Louis Gilbert's colored cornet band, ladies' orchestra and troupe of cake walkers are a prominent factor in Mr. Nichols' department. This is the third consecutive season for Mr. Gilbert and his merry folks with the "Newest Great." . . .
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Golden Mascot Shows. Reports reached the show from winter quarters that the show was water locked in the floods that have devastated the richest portions of Kansas, but the "news" was without foundation. The show has not been delayed but one day in the flooded country, and that was on May 3, at Mayfield, Kan., where a sudden inrush of tidal water cut off a portion of the train of wagons by washing out a forty foot bridge, causing some of the wagons to make a wide detour of fifteen miles in order to get in to Mayfield. On the same night rain fell in torrents, until near moring, and the wagons not having arrived, the show remained over, and gave an exhibition the day following at Mayfield, cancelling Conway Springs, where an immense crowd was disappointed. At Longford, on June 24, a cyclone struck the tents and tore them into rents and tears, demolished two valuable wagons, and did other damage, but no one was hurt, and the show reached Manchester after a long drive next day. We set up the rags and tatters, and gave the show to "standing room only," every seat being packed to its utmost capacity. It was two solid weeks before the tents were patched up, and the terrible havoc of the cyclone effaced by the seams and patches. The big top now looks almost as well as before. Business continues big, although the Golden Mascot Show is new to this field, and it is building its name on the new route and bearing a good impression all along the line. . . .
James D. Deer writes: "The Deer Family of Indians are touring through the principal towns of South Africa, and meeting with great success, with Texas Jack's Circus. One of the brothers had to return to America as the climate did not agree with him. Princess White Deer's rendering of Indian songs is one of the chief features of the show. The Deer family's trick riding never fails to win hearty applause for the Boers. We have met with one accident of any consequence, viz., the fracturing of Mrs. Deer's ankle from a crush between two horses, while doing the "Chase for a Bride."
Pawnee Bill Wild West Show notes. Business with this show continues big. Our tour through the State of Maine, notwithstanding rain and opposition, was exceptionally good. Everyone with the show is well. The first fatality of the season occurred at Portland, Me., on July 11, when Bobby Ryan paid the debt all men owe. Tired, after his day's work was over, he started for the train. One of his chums called for him to wait until he had finished his day's work, and they would go down to the train together. Ryan laid down beside the seat wagon to wait for his friend, and fell asleep. His friend, thinking that Ryan had decided not to wait for him, started for the train alone, leaving poor Ryan sleeping under the wagon, unconscious of the death awaiting him. The wagon loaded, the driver started for the train, passing directly over Ryan's chest. He died on the way to the hospital. The remains were sent to Baltimore to his relatives. Nashua, N.H., Aerie No. ___, F. O. E., received a special dispensation to confer the ___ on the following members of the Pawnee Bill Show: Joe Ferris, side show; Chas. Hott, privileges; Frank Layfield, side show; Geo. Ahearn, car; Harry Star, privileges; Ben Casper, Frank Hall, big show canvas; Walter Watingford, S. W. D.; Wm. Lynd, caterer; James Warren, capt. soldier; Harry Skipper, soldier; J. A. Sullivan, soldier; Eddy Bodsford, leader of the cowboys; and Wm. Langer, car.
Note from Welsh Brothers' Show. Mr. and Mrs. Jack Cousins closed with this show July 16, at ___, N.H., and joined the Sig. Sautelle circuit at Hoosick Falls, July 18. They were given a surprise by their many friends, who presented each with a beautiful ring, and the popular Jack with a complete outfit of gent's furnishings. A neat banquet was served, and all enjoyed themselves immensely. The big show band played at the depot, and as the train pulled out, Mr. and Mrs. Cousins stood on the rear platform, bidding their friends good bye. . . .
Notes from Ringling Bros.' World's Greatest Shows. Sunday, July 17 found the big show on a delightful lot at Sioux Falls, the last of the South Dakota towns, and the two baseball leagues put forth their best clubs on that date for a championship game. The Acrobats, who have held the record of the Performer's League, and the Canvas men, the leading lights of the Working Mens' League, were the two clubs selected to battle for the supremacy. For six innings the result was in doubt, but at that point in the game, through several unfortunate errors on the Canvas men's side, the Acrobats scored heavily, and did not again lose the start they had made. The score at the end of the ninth inning stood 16 to 9 in favor of the Acrobats. The big shows enjoyed a prosperous week. Sioux Falls, on Monday, gave an afternoon turnaway and a big night house. Sioux City, Ia., the Tuesday stand, was another afternoon turnaway, and at night the capacity of the seats was again taken. On account of recent rains the arrival at Omaha on Wednesday was late, but nevertheless, capacity business ruled at both performances. Rain again interferred at Falls City, Neb., on Thursday. The railroad got us in late, the lot was a mile away, with very bad roads leading to it. With difficulty several of the wagons were hauled to the lot, but another terrific down pour of rain occurred, and the management deemed it wise to cancel all arrangements, consequently no parade or performance were given. This is the first stand lost, parade or performance missed during the present year, and the show has had thirteen and one-half weeks of road tour, rather a remarkable record in itself. Leavenworth, Kan., was the Friday stand, with excellent returns at both performances. Friday night two of the ten locomotives required to haul the show trains became derailed and blocked the line, consequently other engines had to be procured, and the circus made the run from Leavenworth to Topeka, via ___ to Atchison, thence over the Santa Fe to Topeka. This made a very late arrival, the last two sections pulling into the yards of Topeka at 11:45. Notwithstanding this late arrival and a two mile haul to the ground, the parade was on the street by 1 o'clock, and doors open for the big show at 2 p.m., and ther performance commenced at 2:45. Next week the big show will be seen in Kansas and Missouri stands, all of which know full well that the name of Ringling stands for all that is best and greatest in circusdom.
Notes from the Bayliss Big Sensation Show. In spite of the rainy weather of late, the Bayliss Big Sensation Show, which is playing Indiana, is still on deck, and now that the weather has changed for the good we are playing to packed tents every afternoon and night. The roster is as follows: Sam L. Bayliss, manager and proprietor; Harry Germaine, advance; Mark Alexander, B. F. comedian; Ed. McElroy, acrobat; Henry Nelser, floating wire and contortion; Harry Monte, traps; Roy Manning, gymnast; Otis Boyd, clown, and others. The band roster, led by Harry Williams, is as follows: Al Bryant, Mark Alexander, Valentine Warner, Chas. A. Leinhard, Ralph Bray, Otis Boyd, F. Campbell, Walter Harris, Dick Man, Henry Nelser, Roy Morgan, Jerry Touty, boss canvas man; Ed. Touty, boss hostler; Wm. Bayliss, assistant manager and steward.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Consolidated Railroad Shows. Since July 18 these shows have been exhibiting in New York State, and as the "Guv'nor" is known in almost every city, town and hamlet throughout the State, business has been at the top notch. July __ we showed at Salem, a stand Mr. Sautelle made with his wagon circus six years ago, since which time the town had not been visited by a tented enterprise. The old inhabitants there said the crowd ___ see the Nine Consolidated was the largest ever seen there. Jack Cousins and Lottie Amar, who recently closed with Welsh Brothers' Show, joined in Salem, and began work the following day in Granville. . . . The "high boss man's" new private trap is now drawn by a handsome and stylish pair of blood bays, and horses and vehicle and occupants are the centre of all eyes to and from the lot, and during the parade. Chief clown John Holman is constantly introducing new lessons to his school of fun makers, and these keep the public in roars of laughter from the opening to the closing of the doors. Sig. Sautelle's Tent City News, the only newspaper of its kind in the world, appears weekly, and its subscription list is increasing daily. Its sixteen columns are devoted exclusively to new, happenings and incidents picked up around the Sautelle Shows.
Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Show. We are still on the road, making two and three night stands, which have proven very successful. This show has never played more than one night stands until this season. We have not had one blow down thus far, but have been compelled to lower peaks several times. Aside from storms and rain, with which we have had to contend, business has been very good. Charlotta Jackson, of Parkersburg, W. Va., sister-in-law of Jessie Tuttle Troy, has been visiting the show for the past week. The following people are new with the show: A. F. Tuttle, proprietor; Mrs. A. F. Tuttle, manager; the Thardos, Ed and Nellie, knive and battle axe impalement act and grotesque contortion troupe of eleven trained dogs, which are a feature; Paul Thardo, our mascot; Jessie Troy, contortionist; Jack Hunt, singing and dancing comedian; Rita Inez Jarvis, pianist . . . Jack Hunt and Miss Troy are making a success of the show with their double soft and wooden shoe dancing acts. Their new sketch is certainly a winner. The show closes the first week in October. Everybody with the company is enjoying the best of health.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. Dame Fortune continues to smile upon this little concern, and while we are not turning them away, we have had them down to the ring bank in many of the towns we played. Up to date we have not received one uncomplimentary press notice, and the general verdict of our patrons is "The neatest and cleanest little show of the price of admission that has ever visited them." Next season will see the New Model Show more than doubled in size.
Notes from the Falkiner Show. Since our opening we have had few mishaps, with the exception of one of the cars being stove in by carelessness on the part of the railway employees. We are making all preparations for a long season South. Our business has been far ahead of anything we have done in this section, and this being our fourth visit to the towns we are playing now. We are using a high dive, performed by Lulu Montrose, and it has proven an excellent drawing card. The advance work is well taken care of by Gabriel Michaels, with a staff of union men. Many new ideas are being worked with success. Albert Gaston, the clown, and the Flying Zenos joined during the past week. Manager Falkiner purchased what we claim is the smallest ___ in captiviity, and under the tuition of Rosaline Stickney, is being taught many catchy tricks. Miss Stickney is now introducing twenty-two dogs in her act, and it is scoring heavily nightly. . . .
Sarah M. Mead, wife of William H. Mead, of Mead's Dog and Pony Show, died suddenly from apoplexy, in this city, on Monday, July 18. Miss Mead had been connected with her husband's enterprises in an executive way.
New York Clipper, August 13, 1904, p. 571. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Welsh Brothers' Newest Great Show notes. The show is back into the bountiful State of New Jersey. Since entering this territory we have encountered a seige of heavy weather, terrific thunderstorms and copious rainfalls. However, business has been fairly good. The towns of Dover, Westfield and Red Bank were especially good. The clever equestrian specialties of Mr. and Mrs. Frank B. Miller are more than "making good." Mrs. Miller is also presenting a new novelty menage act. Prof. Wm. Wood, calliopist, rejoined the show July 30, his manipulations of the steam key board being an attractive feature of the daily street parade. Mr. Wood also appears in the concert, introducing a bright patter monologue, entitled "If I Were a Senator." Maggie Cline, ___, Mr. Lockwood and Chas. F. Edwards, of the actors' colony of Fair Haven, were interested spectators of the night performance at Red Banks.
Pan American Show notes. At ___, Minn., Aug. 1, we encountered on of the heaviest hail storms that we ever experienced. The ideal summer weather induced many people to come from neighboring cities to witness our performance. Fine weather prevailed during the day until about 2 p.m., when the black clouds began to gather. The thunder rolled and the lightning flashed, followed by wind and hail. A large crowd of people had assembled under the big show tent to witness the afternoon performance, but as the storm came up so suddenly, there was no chance for the people to go to their homes for refuge. It was an occasion that made them feel that there was no place like "home, sweet home." The noise made by the wild animals in the menagerie and the cries of the children made the situation an appalling one. The storm lasted about fifteen minutes, during which time the wind blwe the ring stock and cook tent to the ground, and the heavy load of hail stones on the menagerie tent forced the canvas and four of the centre poles to the ground, turning over one of the lion cages, as the canvas came down, but luckily no one was hurt. After about fifteen minutes of stormy weather, the sun came peeping through the black clouds and as its rays shone through the storm torn canvas, the people in the tent applauded; it seemed to bring a feeling of joy over them. The riding rings were about a foot deep with water, and after they were bailed out the performance began and ran as smoothly as though there had been no storm at all. At our next stand, Jackson, Minn., we met Seibel Bros.' Dog and Pony Show, they having exhibited there a day previous to us, and at our next stand, Wells, Minn., we met the advertising car No. 1 of Gentry Bros.' United Shows. During the day their bill posters adorned the walls of Wells, announcing that Gentry Bros.' United Shows would exhibit there on Aug. 17.
Russlee Hortman, of Ben Horner's band, en route with Gollmar Bros.' Circus, drew one hundred and sixty acres of land in the Rosebud Indian Reservation drawing.
Kitty May Irwin won a diamond ring at a drawing with the Van Amburg Show last week. The Irwin Family joined that show six weeks ago.
Notes from the Lucky Bill Show. We are now in our fourth week in Missouri and have been playing to fine business. On July 28, at Harwood, Mo., for the first time this season, our tent was blown down. Within two hours after the strom ceased the tent was put up again and things looked as though nothing had happened. The Lucky Bill Show consists of eighteen wagons, thirty-eight head of horses, twelve head of Shetland ponies, sixteen head of monkeys, two bears, four twelve-foot alligators, seven macaw birds, cockatoos and parrots, one lion and two lynx. We also carry our own six hundred dollar piano and piano player, who is a fine sight reader. Our roster is as follows: Lucky Bill, sole owner and proprietor; Wm. Newton Jr., manager; May Dunlap, secretary and treasurer; Lon Hibner, press agent; Mae Humphrey, piano player; Jim Wing, novelty high dive and traps; Jim Wingleman, rings and webs; the ___, comedy sketch performers and vocalists; Billie Shakespeare, comedian and buck and wing dancer; Doddy Irish, contortionist; Billie Fox, equestrian. The Hibner Bros. close the big show with their thrilling revolving ladder act. Jack Simmons is in charge of stock, with two assistants; Sam Seal is boss canvas man, with seven assistants; Barney Rhodes, chief cook; Earnest Rhodes, cook's assistant. Willard and Willard closed in Rich Hill, Mo.
Notes from Ringling Brothers' World's Greatest Shows. Monday, July 25, found the big show at Kansas City, Mo., and, in spite of the recent floods, two tremendous turnaways was the business record for the day. Iola, Kan., on Tuesday, tested the capacity of the big tents at the matinee, and gave a splendid night business. Parsons, Wednesday, was equally big. Joplin, Mo., on Thursday, gave an afternoon turnaway and a big night attendance and Independence, Kan., on Friday, was a surprise to everyone with the World's Greatest. This entire district played during the week has suffered greatly from the recent floods, crops are practically killed, and all are guarding their dollars with a jealous care. This, however, appeared to have no effect on the business, as at Independence every seat was filled, and the hippodrome track crowded at the day show and the night business was also excellent. Wichita, the Saturday stand, although it was played on Oct. 13 last year, making a return engagement in less than ten months, provided a big day's business for the largest on earth, after which the show was loaded and ran to Pueblo, Col., in seven sections. The mileage of this run, 461 miles, while not longer than the usual of the Ringling's Western Sunday movements, owing to the poor tracks caused by the recent floods, made a late arrival at Pueblo, the last section not getting in until Monday at about 5 a.m. The recent strikes in Colorado have made the business staff a trifle worried over the outcome. But Pueblo responded nobly on Monday and both it and Colorado Springs, the Tuesday stand, were greater than ever before from a financial standpoint, which proves conclusively that even in the face of hard times, the people are willing to pay the price for amusements when they are of the high class that the Ringlings have always offered in the past and this year excel in. Denver, Wednesday and Thursday, Aug. 3 and 4, was just a trifle better than last year. Out of the four performances three runaways were recorded. Boulder, Col., will be played on Friday, and Cheyenne, Wyo. on Saturday, after which the show will take a 500 mile jaunt on Sunday, to Ogden, Utah.
New York Clipper, August 20, 1904, p 585. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
R. N. Baley, formerly a rube with Sig. Sautelle's Circus, writes: "I have retired from the show business and am now connected with the Douglass Show Co., in New York."
Woods and ___ are in their seventeenth week with Pawnee Bill's Wild West Show doing their bag punching act. They have completed their new pantomime act, "The Athletic Mr. Dooley," and will present it in vaudeville this season.
Notes from Cummins' Wild West Indian Congress. Sunday, Aug. 7 proved an eventful one with Col. Frederick T. Cummins, head of this show, on the Pike. The occasion was the testimonial benefit given the Indian leader by his show friends at the Exposition. To say that the affair was a huge success is putting it mildly. The biggest crowd that ever turned out to see an individual attraction was present. The universal verdict was that the entertainment was the most unique and pleasing that ever took place in an arena. In the grand entree, which was headed by Colonel Cummins, were the Hale fire fighters in uniform, with their apparatus; Hagenbeck's performing elephants, camels, dromedaries and natives from Darkets Asia, acrobats from Cairo, Constantinople; McKay's Circus and Rome, dancing girls from all of the Oriental shows, three bands, performing ostriches, and in fact a good portion of all the exhibitions to be seen on the Pike was in evidence. In order to get all the contributed numbers on the programme it was necessary to put on a half dozen turns at a time. The friends of the colonel were legion. In the boxes were many notables in the show business, including Dick Plunkett, Chief Hale, Frank Talbot, General Cronje, Mark Stone, E. Robinson, G. Akoun, G. Niemy, Excela, Dan Sherman, H. Hagenbeck, J. McConnell, H. Roltair and John Martell. The visiting Shriners were in attendance in a body.
Jay M. Overstreet, general agent of the Pierce Amusement Co., writes: "I paid a visit to friends who are members of the great Forepaugh-Sells Show, in Gloversville, N.Y., on Aug. 11. A. Raymond Thompson, who has a quartet of high school horses with the show, introduced me to all the people there. Mr. Thompson produced cigars, and the hospitality of all was so genial that I shall long cherish the remembrance of the visit. I was much interested in the improvement of the entire show over past years, especially with the merit of the "loop the loop," and that of the vaulting 'cyclist, both of which brought cheers of approval from the vast assemblage. Mr. Reynold's menage act was a feature of the performance, being ably assisted by Mrs. Faber, who drove the handsome black to the traps so dexteriously; also Lola Milton, who rides one of the quartet, for her grace and skill in handling her mount. The remainder of the show passed without a hitch, and to finish the evening twenty-five members of the show were initiated into the ?. O. Eagles, of Gloversville, after which a banquet was spread for the new "Eagles." I parted with the jolly fellows as section No. 1 was pulling out and only wish the pleasures of the day were soon to be repeated."
Notes from La Mont Bros.' Circus. We have been playing to fine business during the past six weeks in Indiana. The show is much larger than last season, as we carry fifty people, forty-five head of stock and an eighty foot with a forty foot middle for a big top, with a forty by sixty foot for side show. The side show is under the direction of Mr. and Mrs. Porterfield, and has been more than holding its own. It is a common thing to see it crowded three times a day. The big show is winning press regards as well as carrying the money away. It is sometimes strengthened by Chas. La Mont, in his aerial and slack wire acts. Mr. La Mont has been with the big ones and whenever he makes his appearance the holds the people interested. Our ban, the best one we ever carried, is under the baton of Clarence McMackin, with twelve solo musicians. The advance consists of five men, with R. Lee Clark contracting agent, and ?. C. Randolph, boss bill poster, with three assistants. Much credit should be given R. Lee Clark, our agent, for he has been doing excellent work ahead of the show. He has won many friends with the show people and all regret seeing him close, as he has gone to his home at Lafayette, Ind. At Remington, Ind., one of the lionesses gave birth to two baby lions. They are drawing much attention in the side show. At Monticello, Ind., four ponies attached to a cage containing a lion and a panther ran away. The panther is still at large and the La Mont Show is being widely advertised in that part of the country, as the panther is making things lively for the farmers. The Sim-Letta Family closed at Idlewild and were replaced next day by the Smithfield Brothers, six in number. The show will make a longer tour than the past season, and we will not pull into winter quarters until November.
New York Clipper, September 3, 1904, p. 633. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Manager Clarence L. Norris and wife, advertising manager H. Stanley Lewis and wife, and manager of privileges W. W. Brown, of the Norris & Rowe Shows, spent last week at the St. Louis Exposition. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis will visit their home at Olean, N.Y., and Mr. Brown his home at Knoxville, Tenn., before rejoining the Norris & Rowe Shows in Iowa.
The Flying Jordans leave San Francisco Sept. 17 on their fourth tour around the world. The company will include: Fred McThessen, "Looping the Loop," the Flying Jordans and Chas. Harris, doing a sixty foot chasm jump. The company opens in Honolulu Sept. 25, going directly to Australia.
Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Show. We are still on the road, doing nicely; in fact, our tent is too small to hold the people. At Waterford, Pa., where we played three nights, we could not accommodate the people. We have made no changes lately, the following people being with the show: A. F. Tuttle and wife, Ed. and Nellie and Paul Thardo, Rita Jarvis, Jessie Troy, Jack Hunt, Red Flemming, Lee Scantling, and Fred Smith, boss canvas man, with two assistants. Everyone is well and the crowds never fail to come our way. We close about Oct. 1
William Todt's Famous Show notes. This little show is now in its second year of success. We opened our present season the April 18 at Cape Charles, Va. Since then we have played Maryland, Delaware and New Jersey, playing all the sea coast, this season's business being more than double last year's receipts. We have several weeks around Philadelphia and then work South. We have had quite a few professional visitors, who stated it was the neatest and largest one car show they ever saw.
Harry R. Moore has closed with the Cash Carnival Co. to perfect arrangements for 1905 for the Harry R. Moore Great One Ring Show.
The Great Ellet Troupe is one of the feature acts with the Great Floto Shows.
Peter Sells, the well known showman, suffered a stroke of paralysis at Columbus, O., on Aug. 26. It seemed slight at first, but soon affected his speech, and later he failed to recognize his daughter and other members of the household. His physicians regard his condition as critical. He is fifty-seven years old.
Pubillones' Circus, first company, will open the first week in November in the City of Havana, Cuba; second company, for Venezuela, Costa Rica, Panama, about the second week in December; third company, for the interior of the Island of Cuba, the last week in November.
New York Clipper, September 10, 1904, p. 660. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. We have just finished our sixteenth week and have played to excellent business from the start to the present time. We are now in the hop raising district of New York, and while our afternoon houses are not large, we have overflowing business at night. Albert Gaston, the veteran clown, joined at Hobart, N.Y., Aug. 23. All are well and happy and very few changes have taken place since our opening. Next season will find the New Model nearly doubled in size, with many new and attractive features added.
The Sim Letta Family, six in number, closed with the Lamont Shows at Monticello, Ind., and played two weeks of fair dates. They are with the great Pan-American Shows, having joined Aug. 23, at Olney, Ill.
Jessie and Harry De Alvin are with the Great Campbell Bros.' Circus, and are doing well.
Harry Higgins, last season assistant equestrian director with the Great Wallace Shows, was last week at the Great Decorah, Iowa, fair.
W. C. Fleming, press representative for Pawnee Bill's Wild West and Great Far East Show, closed with that attraction at Malone, N.Y., Aug. 17. Mr. Fleming will take a couple weeks' vacation in and around Buffalo before opening with the Forman & Fleming attractions.
Peerless St. Julian is in his twentieth week with the Pawnee Bill's Great Wild West and Far East Show and reports success.
New York Clipper, September 17, 1904, p. 684. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
H. Stanley Lewis and wife and W. W. Brown, of the Norris & Rowe Shows, have returned to their posts after a two weeks' vacation at the World's Fair. A lot of printing for the Lewis & Brown attractions was received at Davenport, Ia., and stowed away until the circus reaches winter quarters, at San Jose, Cal.
The Adam Forepaugh-Sells Brothers' Show is to be sold and will pass out of the control of the present management at the close of the present season, which ends at Tarboro, N.C., Nov. 19. The two shows were consolidated in 1894, and James A. Bailey and W. W. Cole, owners of the Barnum & Bailey ircus, are equally interested with Peter and Lewis Sells. Peter Sells is in poor health, having suffered a paralytic stroke recently, and, being advanced in years, he has decided to part with all the circus property he controls with his brother. W. W. Cole said last week, in an interview: "It has been mutually agreed to sell the Forepaugh-Sells Circus at auction. Mr. Bailey and myself have no desire to acquire more circus property, and probably the show will go to an outsider."
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. We are still doing business, and will not close until Oct. 1, when we go into winter quarters at Schenectady, N.Y., where Mr. Wheeler is now building elegant quarters for the stock, etc., also a new ring barn. This show will be greatly enlarged and improved during the winter, several new trained animal acts will be added and the season of 1905 will see the New Model Shows one of the neatest and best wagon shows on the road. Nearly all of the people who opened with us this Spring are still with us, and all regret that our season is nearing the end.
Notes from Andrew Downie's New Big One Ring Shows. The new show has certainly made a reputation in the East. We are proud that not a single adverse criticism from the press or public has reached us. We just left New Jersey, and are now in Pennsylvania. New Jersey was certainly "good to us," packed houses being the rule all the way through. While in Philadelphia our calliope was struck by a trolley car and badly damaged, two of the six horses being badly hurt. The Street Car Company settled in full, and the calliope has been repaired in first class shape. Our first week in Pennsylvania was against opposition, but in spite of this and bad weather, the new show packed them in nightly. We lost three afternoon shows last week on account of long jumps, but had the satisfaction of turning them away at the night shows. We have added ten mules and six horses this week to get us over the mountains. We have not changed one act in our ring during the season and have but one new performer. The Spaulding Bros. will close Saturday to join a winter show, with which they were contracted for last Spring. While around Philadelphia we had a great number of visitors, Mr. Hope, the animal man; Mr. Doris and George ___, with an automobile party spent the day with us at Media, Pa. Our season will continue up to Christmas. We are working South, and will spend winter there, then work back over the same route next season. A menagerie of ten cages, one elephant and two camels will be added. Jumbo, the largest horse in the world, and To To, the smallest horse, with Joe Carmer, the rubber neck and elastic skin man, are our side show features. Our street parade is second to none, with thirty-one wagons, while three bands and our thirty-two whistle calliope furnish the music. While we were in New Jersey our people spent Sunday at New York and Coney Island. The season has been a most pleasant one, financially and otherwise.
L. C. Gillette and wife will close with the John H. Sparks Shows in October, to attend to personal business in Lapeer, Mich. Mr. Gillette has been general agent for the Sparks Shows for eight consecutive years, which has been very pleasant and successful, he informs us.
The Keeler Brothers write: "We are in our twentiety week with the Walter L. Main Show, introducing our musical act in the concert, and clowning on the track. We have some good booking for our musical specialty."
New York Clipper, October 1, 1904, pp. 723, 735, 737. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Great Pan American Show notes. We close for the season at ___, I. T., Sept. 30. The band will play "Home, Sweet Home," and the season of 1904 will be a thing of the past. When the train arrives at the winter quarters at Dodson, Mo., it will have traversed 8,081 miles since leaving there May 13. During the season we have exhibited in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahom, Nebraska, North and South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Arkansas and Indian Territory. There were only two towns that we were unable to show this season. El Dorado Springs, Mo., where we were billed for June 3, we were unable to reach on account of the tracks being seven feet under water, and the other stand was Varner, Ark., Sept. 21, but we couldn't show on account of the heavy and continued rain.
John Pansol, the bear trainer, late of Adam Forepaugh and Sells Bros.' Shows, who had the misfortune to lose his left leg on July 25, is in the French Hospital, New York City.
Richard and Cathcart are in their ninth month with Orrin Bros.', in Mexico, and are booked with them until January, 1905.
Oscar W. Courtney is in his twentieth week with Campbell Bros.' Show, doing his tramp juggling act.
The Great Pan-American Shows report doing a fine business in Arkansas, notwithstanding strong opposition.
Harry Clark, principal clown with Walter L. Main's Show, is as West Baden Springs, undergoing a course of treatment for stomach trouble. He joins the show again in two weeks.
A notice in a recent issue of the Clipper was made to read that J. A. Bailey and W. W. Cole were owners of the Barnum & Bailey Circus. This is an error, Mr. Bailey being the sole owner of that show.
Notice from C. H. Knight's Show. This show opened May 6, at Dunkirk, O., at winter quarters, and will close early in October and begin repairing, painting and fitting up horses for the season of 1905. C. H. Knight is the sole owner of the show, having purchased the Smith interest some time ago. This show will carry for the season of 1905 twenty head of work horsese and some trained stock, and will play Ohio, Indiana and Michigan. This show attended a big street fair at the manager's home town, who furnished a band for the occasion.
Notes from Bert Silver's Circus. We closed the season at our home, Standish, Mich., Sept. 15. J. Dan Rice, with his stock, went to Jackson, Mich.; Canfield and Von Horn left for their home in Belding; Sandy Copeland, traps and bars, will play dates (Crystal circuit); Walker, the clown, joins a show in Canada . . . Perkins, cornettist, joins a show in Illinois, and the remainder of the company to their various homes. It has been a very prosperous season for this show. The show will go out next season under a larger top and use ten wagons, playing the same route as this year, as every town said, "come again."
Ruth and Harry Orville and Little Miss Nena closed with Sun Bros.' Circus, Aug. 21, and opened the Fall season with McDade's Fun Makers Aug. 24.
Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Show will close a successful season shortly and go into winter quarters at Shenectady, N.Y.
Notes from Hunt's Big Shows. We have been out sixteen weeks and we have been doing our share of business, having from two and three turnaways each week. We are now making our first tour of New Jersey and are heading for the South, where we expect to work nearly all winter. Everybody is enjoying the best of health and there has been only one accident so far. Prince Leon fell from the small bar of a double trapeze, the side rope breaking. He sprained his wrists and knocked several teeth loose. He was laid up two weeks, but is now back at work, as good as ever. On Aug. 7 the performers, musicians and members of his family presented Chas. T. Hunt with a heavy signet ring, it being his thirty-first birthday. The roster and staff at present is: John & C. T. Hunt, proprietors; Chas. T. Hunt, manager; Mrs. John Hunt, charge of front door; Mrs. Chas. T. Hunt, privileges; Abe Lasher, agent, with one assistant; Dixie Ackert, boss hostler, with two assistants; Phil Ostrander, boss of canvas, with six men; Tim Rafferty, props, with one man; Wm. Badger, bandmaster, with the following musicians: Tom Carter, John Corey, James Kinney, Frank Scott, Chet Ostrandre and Tom Reed. Performers: Prince Leon, contortion, rings and singing and talking clown; Ed. McIntyre, hand balancer and dancer; Chet Ostrander, sailor perch and acrobat; Chas T. Hunt, juggling wire act and trapeze; Bros. La Noy, double trapeze; Ostrander and McIntyre, comedy revolving ladder; Mrs. C. Hunt, vocalist; our trained ponies, Fred, Helen and Diamond; and John Corey, illustionist and magic. Concert: Corey, spirit cabinet; Bertha Hunt, coon shouter; McIntyre, buck and wing dancer; Harry Lamont, comedian; Mr. and Mrs. Chas. T. Hunt, illustrated songs; and Calceita, serpentine dancer. Our big top is a 70x100; horse tent 50ft. round top; cook tent 20x30. We have twentypone head of horses and ponies and eleven wagons. Next season we expect to put out every wagon in parade but the pole wagon, and enlarge our show to almost double its present size. Everyone is happy and contented, and wears that pleasant smile, for the "man in white" has paid us weekly visits for the past eleven years.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Consolidated Railroad Shows. The nineteeth week of our 1904 season finds everyone, from the gov'ner to pony boy, well, happy and in the best of spirits. If, as claimed by a majority of showmen, this is an off year, neither proprietor or employee is aware of the fact. The Eastern states, New York and Pennslyvania panned out bigg, and when the tour will have ended the net earnings of the nine consolidated will not fall much below those of 1903. Many new animals have been added to the menagerie and considerable other property has been bought by Mr. Sautelle since May 1. Another new 60ft. flat car came to us at Emporium, Pa., Sept. 6, and further adds to the beauty of the double train. For a few days at a stretch we have been making stands that were previously visited this summer by from two to four tented shows and yet our receipts do not appear to suffer. . . . In Lock Haven, Pa., at 4:15 p.m., a terrific wind stomr leveled the horse tent, big top, menagerie and side show tents and the canvas was more or less torn. The blown down did not prevent the night performance, which was given with only the side wall in position, to an excellent house. Mr. Sautelle is already perfecting plans for greatly enlarging his shows for next season, and to that end was in consultation for several days last week with the representative of one of America's largest wagon making firms, from which several mammoth band and tableau wagons will be purchased.
Sig. Sautelle notes. France Reed, equestrian director, and Paddy Walsh, an acrobat, with the show, suffered severe falls last week. Mr. Reed was trying for a somersault, in his jockey act, when his horse shied, and its rider struck the ground violently upon his head and shoulders. Mr. Walsh had almost the same experience, except that he was doing a somersault from his partner's shoulders. Although painfully injured, both performers refused to lay off. Mr. and Mrs. Harry Moulton, of Sig. Sautelle's annex, mourn the death of their infant child, on Sept. 16, in Philadelphia. Fred Beckman, manager of the Barnum & Bailey opposition car, was a welcome visitor the last three days of last week.
John A. Barton writes that an order of discharge was entered in the Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Illinois, on Sept. 12, n the matter of the voluntary petitions of himself and Susie Barton, his wife.
Notes from Thos. L. Finn's Tent Show. We closed our sixth season under canvas Sept. _, and Andover, N.H. Business from the opening until the close of the season was very satisfactory. We did not turn any people away or have any blow downs, but made a little money every week. Mr. Finn will take out a small wagon show next Spring and tour the New England States.
Ringling notes. A. G. Ringling, Charles A. White, Tom Dalley, George Goodhart and George Chaffin, of the Ringling Brothers' advance staff, were entertained by general excursion agent Ralph W. Peckham, on his fruit ranch near San Jose, Cal. . . .
Geo. E. Pickering, general agent of Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows, has completed his season's work, having all contracts made to our closing date, Oct. 1. He will return to his home at Boston, Mass., for a short rest before going out for the winter with a leading theatrical enterprise. Chas. E. Darling has replaced Chas. E. Shepard as manager of No. 2 brigade, as the latter was obliged to close on account of ill health.
Lewis and Lake write: "We closed our Society Circus at Broken Bow, Neb., last week, and will play vaudeville dates for the winter, reopening our circus season at Omaha, Neb., May 5, 1905. We are carrying a 50ft. top, with three 30ft. middle pieces; twenty-two people and a band and orchestra. The roster will be increased to forty people next season, with a 100ft. round top and two 50ft. middle pieces.
Notes from Al F. Wheeler's New Model Show. We will close a highly successful season of twenty-two weeks at Vernon, N.Y., on Oct. 1. This little concern proved to be a winner from start to finish, financially, and has left a reputation behind it that will mean dollars in seasons to come . . . We go into winter quartres at Schenectady, N.Y., where commodious quarters have alreasy been completed, and work will be commenced at once on new material for the season of 1905. The show will be nearly doubled in size for next season's tour. Nearly all the people who opening with us this Spring will be on hand to hear the band play "Home, Sweet Home," at the closing stand. We have had no sickness in the company during the entire season, no serious accident, and only one blowdown to record, and then no damage was done.
Fred Pike, who had been with the Sig. Sautelle Consolidated Shows for the last three years, died Sept. 22, in an Olean, N.Y> hotel. The deceased was widely known in the circus world, having been in the employ of Frank A. Robbins for many years. Of late he suffered greatly from hemorrahages of the stomach, finally succumbing to the ailment. Directly upon learning of his death an agent from the Sautelle Shows was sent to Olean with directions to spare no expense in theperformance of the last sad rites. A handsome casket was purchased and the remains placed in a cemetery vault until such time as relatives of the deceased may be located.
New York Clipper, October 22, 1904, p. 821. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Canada Frank's Shows, F. M. Myers, manager. We are beginning our twenty-fourth week and have done a very fine business - in fact, the best the show has ever done. We have touring North and South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas. The manager has decided to go South during the winter months. We carry twenty people, with a band of eight pieces. Our show is made up as follows: F. M. Myers, manager and owner; Mrs. F. M. Myers, ticket taker at big show; Winnie Myers, in charge of reserved seats; Maude Myers, soubrette, song and dance; Little Myrtle, singing and dancing; Walton Bros., double flying trapeze; Ed. Walton, slack wire; Jack Rooney, singing and talking clown; Oscar Walton, single traps; Canada Frank, ventriloquist; Walton Bros., double comedy jugglers; Bert Myers and Old Rooney, revolving ladder act act, and a picture machine for the concert. Frank Keith is boss canvasman, with five assistants. Everybody is well. Our band is headed by Edward Hobert, with Mrs. Edward Hobart, Bert Myers, James ___, Mrs. Dottie Myers, H. S. Hoog, Frank Leroy and Chas. Regan.
Wm. H. Delly writes: "Having closed my season as manager of Gollmar Bros.' advertising car No. 1, Oct. 1, I jumped to Delavan, Ill., and closed my interests in the Great Raymond Co. Accompanied by my wife (Isabella Delly) and Baby Isabella, I leave for St. Louis to spend a few weeks at the fair. From there I expect to go the Leavenworth, Kan. to take a rest and look after some busines matters which will take up my time until after the election, after which I expect to be back on the road. Gollmar Bros.' advertising car No. 1 closed a season of twenty-five weeks at Popular Bluff, Mo., Oct. 1. The boys were paid off and the car started its run for winter quarters at Baraboo, Wis. This car can boast of a run of twenty-five weeks under my direction without running a town or losing a day the entire season. They boys were all rejoicing and most of them will spend a few days at the World's Fair on their way home. Wahler, Pitney and Linblade go to Milwaukee; Kohn and Strong to Omaha, via. the fair; Pursell, to Chicago, and the rest of the boys drift to different positions. A pleasant season was the verdict."
Notes from the Great Barlow Show. We closed, Sept. 17, on account of engagement of teams to school hacks for seven months. We had a fine season and the show will be enlarged in every way. Will carry seventeen head of stock, six of which will be trained stock. Howe and Decker, who have been members of this show for three seasons, have re-engaged for 1905, also Guy Fahler. We will be ready for the road in 1905.
Fletcher Smith closed his fourth season in advance of the Andrew Downie Shows at Beallsville, Pa., Oct. 1. He will spend two weeks with friends at Medina, N.Y., and opens with the Andrew Downie Winter Show at St. Paul, Oct. 12, for a trip to the Pacific coast and return.
Al G. Barnes writes that his pony, dog and monkey circus has not lost a day in twenty-six weeks.
Pan-American Show notes. The great Pan-American Shows closed a profitable season at Nowata, Ind. Ter., Sept. 30, and the show arrived at Dodson, Mo., Oct. 1, and went into winter quarters in Dodson. Several of the advance people joined the Sells & Downs' Show at Pine Bluff, Ark. Chas. E. McKee, general agent, will winter in Kansas City, Mo.; Chas. Ellis, local contractor, will go to Chicago; P. S. Mattox, manager advance car No. 1, will rest in Brooklyn, N.Y. The State of Arkansas is in bad condition for any circus on account of poor cotton crop.
Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Show. We closed our season Sept. 25, at the Edinboro, Pa. Fair, where over three thousand people visited the show. We made very few changes during the season, some of the company giving such good satisfaction that manager Tuttle has secured their services for his next tenting season, foremost among these being Jack Hunt, who was invited to a two weeks' visit at winter quarters after the show closed. The show had a very good season. Manager Tuttle and wife and their daughter (Jessie Troy) will leave Linesville, Pa. (winter quarters), Oct. 10, to visit relatives in New Haven, Conn.
Gus Fairbanks, of the Sautelle Show, called at the Clipper office last week and reported excellent business during the season. He will, at the close of the season, join the Orton Show.
The Musical Brennans write: "We closed a very pleasant and successful five weeks' engagement at the Star Theatre, Atlanta, Ga., Oct. 8, and joined the Miles Orton Big Southern R. R. Show at Suffolk, Va., for the winter's tour of the South. Will remain in Dixie land until the park season opens. We have already booked several parks for next season. This is our second engagement with the Orton Show."
A recent report from Wilkesbarre, Pa., stated that the John H. Sparks Show train and a freight were in a collision at Nanticoke on the morning of Oct. 2. Four circus men and an elephant were injured, a lion badly frightened, eight cars of meat thrown over the embankment and two circus cars wrecked. Four of the circus men were hurt. Stephen Tauger was badly cut about the head, Frank Lansing had an arm broken and was severely bruised, Fred Curtis was injured internally and his arm broken, and Gersel Powell's left leg was broken and he was badly bruised and cut.
L. C. Gillette and wife closed with the John H. Sparks Shows at Catawissa, Pa., on Oct. 5. They state they had been wit Mr. Sparks for eight successive seasons. Mr. Gillette expects to locate in the bill posting business after taking a short rest at his home at Lapeer, Mich.
Notes from Gollmar Bros.' Show. We closed a highly successful season at Poplar Bluffs, Mo. The show will be thoroughly renovated and enlarged for next season. Several of the old performers and muscians have been re-engaged for 1905. We played through the following States: Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, South Dakota, Nebraska, Indiana and Arkansas.
New York Clipper, October 29, 1904, p. 836. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
J. T. McCaddon bought the Sig. Sautelle twenty-two car show last Saturday and takes possession of the property next Saturday, when the show closes its season. Part of it will be added to his circus, which opens its tour in Europe next Spring, and the remainder will be sold.
In reply to numerous queries we are asked to announce that the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus has not been sold. There have been many reports to the effect that the show has been sold, but negotiations for its sale have not been completed.
New York Clipper, November 5, 1904, p. 860. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Leo Collins, high diver, slack wire walker, boss canvas man and superintendent of J. H. Sparks' Show, was united in marriage, Oct. 1, to Mattie Bernstein, of Warren, Pa.
The Flying Jordans Vaudeville and 'Cycle Carnival will leave San Francisco Dec. 10 for a tour around the world. Honolulu will be the first country visited, thence to New Zealand, Australia and South Africa, returned via Europe. This will be Mr. Jordan's fourth tour and the company will take as a feature, Diavolo, looping the loop; Fred ___, the clever jumper, and twenty-five people, using a one hundred and fifty foot round top and two fifty feet middle pieces. The Ortons go to Australia with the Flying Jordans.
Geo. J. Robbs, formerly of Robbs and Conly, has joined hands with his old partner, Eugene Powell, who has been ill the past season, and they have signed with the Ringling Bros.' World's Greatest Shows for season of 1905, to do their black face act.
Welch Brothers' "Newest Great" Show notes. The seventeenth season closed in an excellent manner Sept. 28 at Quarryville, Pa., which is adjacent to Lancaster. The show visited eleven States during the past Summer, and as a whole, the season was a fairly good one. The weather was "up and down" nearly all the time, cold, rain and wind storms alternating. However, no blow downs were encountered, and only six performances were lost. The show is now comfortably housed for the winter at McGrann's Park, Lancaster, where active preparations are already under way for the next tenting season, which will open early in April next. New baggage and parade wagons will be added, and also an invoice of new harness, trappings and unique wardrobe. Frank B. Miller has been re-engaged as equestrian director, and Mr. Miller and wife will also present their many attractive riding specialties. The executive staff remains unchanged, virtually the same as during the past three seasons. The new "practicing" barn will be ready to open Nov. 19, when the work in this line will be pushed forward in a rapid manner.
Notes from the Great Floto Shows. The Floto Shows traveled a little over nineteen thousand miles, opening their season at Dallas, Tex., March 14, and they will close in Old Mexico about Nov. 25. They made two trips from the Missouri River to the coast, crossing the mountains four times, the last time via the Canadian Pacific from Vancouver to Winnipeg. The Floto Shows are now an established institution, particularly in the West, being the first circus and menagerie promulgated by Western capital and located in the heart of the gold and silver regions. It will be enlarged and added to for next coming season, to further sustain its reputation as one of the remarkable tented aggregations. From the last stand the whole circus train will make a dead run to Fort Worth, Tex. The advance cars will be picked up and attached to the main train, direct for Denver, where the new winter quarters are located, which are built entirely of brick, steam heated and electric lighted. The arena, or training quarters, to be used exclusively for practicing and rehearsals for the next season's entertainment, is 144ft. long, 65ft. wide, and 35ft. high, contains two rings and all kinds of aerial rigging. Showmen visiting Denver are always welcome. Uniformed attendants will be pleased to show them about the quarters.
Notes from the Cap. Stewart Big City Show. We closed our tenting season Saturday, Oct. 15, at Angola, Ind., and shipped home to winter quarters at Fort Wayne, Ind. Next season we will have all new tents, but we are done with railroads. We will go back to wagons. We will put out a vaudeville show in stores for the witner and will open immediately after the election. Will travel in Indiana, Ohio and Michigan and play all week stands.
Notes from E. G. Smith's Colossal Shows and Trained Animal Exposition. We closed a very successful season of twenty-four weeks at McConnellsburg, Pa., on Oct. 8, and the last wagon of our train pulled into winter quarters Oct. 10. In the early part of the season this show encountered a vast amount of rain and opposition, but it kept steadily on its course as of yore, not losing a stand or performance until Oct. 1, when the wind blew at such a rate that it was impossible to keep the small tents up. They lay flat on the lot all day, until time for the night show, when we were able to put up a cook house, but were forced to lose the night, making our only stand lost for the season. The latter half of the season was played to turn away business, and next season will se us out with a larger spread of canvas and more seats to accommodate the growing patronage. The show made no change in its roster, all the people coming back to winter quarters. We carried the past season ten head of draught stock, four head of trained ponies, two trained donkeys and a troupe of dogs. We left a good reputation all along our line of travel and are sure of an increase in business when we return. The show traversed parts of Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania, making in all 1,98 miles. All people connected with the show spent a healthy and prosperous season and all regretted its close. Keller Isminger, our agent, went to his home; J. J. Ray Dee joined a vaudeville show; Ed. Fitz went to his home; Ed. and Nellie Thires and E. G. Smith and wife are at winter quarters. Plans are under way for next season and many improvements will be made and new features added.
Reid and Johnson are in their twenty-fifth week with Sun Bros.' R. R. Show, clowning and doing their black face act . . .
Notes from the Miles Orton Southern Show. We opened our season at Suffolk, Va., Oct. __, for our annual tour of the South, and we have been meeting with gratifying success despite strong opposition from some of the "big ones." Our show has been greatly improved and enlarged from that of last season's show. The roster: Mrs. Miles Orton, sole proprietor; Norman Orton, general manager; Myron Orton, business manager; Philip Harris, general agent; Gus Fairbanks, railroad contractor. Performers in big show: the Great Norman, high wire bicyclist; the famous Orton Children, child aerialists; Jacobs and McCue, comedy acrobats and barrel jumpers; Myron Orton, slack wire; Petite Iva, in her two pony riding act; Michael Cahill, cloud swing; Norman Orton, mule hurdle act; Orton Bros., double trapeze; William McCue, hand balancer; Herr Jacobs, iron jaw act. Clowns: Ed. Brennan, Myron Orton, Ed. Johnson and Master Clarence. Band: Martin Singer, leader of band No. 1, with twelve men: Prof. John West, leader of band no. 2, with nine pieces. Concert: the Musical Brennans, comedy musical act; Edward Johnson, black face comedian; Nina, novelty dancer; Ed. Brannan, eccentric act, and Rogall, with his wrestling bear. Side show: Lew H. Nichols, manager; Dave Latlip and Chas. Lovell, ticket sellers; the Original Alabama Students, eight in number; Capt. David Latlip, high divers; Madame Leland, second sight seeress; Mlle. Lovella, snake enchantress; Capt. Jach Kuhns, tattooed man; Nona, glass blower, with her troupe of glass spinners and weavers, and Rogall Bros.' performing bears. Superintendent of canvas, Col. Dick Richards; superintendent of properties, Curly Devlin; superintendent of stock, Peter Duprez.
Notes from Hunt's Vaudeville Circus. This show closed its season Thursday, Oct. 20, at Rosendale, N.Y., after touring five States, making 1,632 miles in nineteen weeks and four days. It was our intention to make a long Southern trip, but the further South we got the poorer the business, so we decided to turn back and made record breaking jump for a wagon show, and reached our winter quarters (Kingston, __) at about 6 a.m., 21. In the afternoon everybody was called to the office and paid in full and after many hearty hand shakes departed for their homes to rest up and prepare for another season of hard work. Chas. T. Hunt will commence training the ponies, dogs and monkeys for an act he intends to introduce in vaudeville, with his wife and Charles Jr., the four year old singing clown. He has some time booked at indoor fairs. Work on the tableaux baggage wagons will begin at once and a while new outfit of canvas will be ordered for next season, when we expect to put out the finest show ever handled by twenty-four draught horses.
Emma and Robt. Stickney sail for Europe in December, to open in Berlin Jan. 1 with the Circus Albert Schumann.
Arthur ___ writes: "I will close with the Sells-Forepaugh Show Nov. 19, after thirty-one weeks of work, and will go into vaudeville. The show is doing a big business in the South, turning them away. George Whitby is still leaping in good form and has not missed a double since Sept. 1. Mr. Parthous, who "leaps the gap," has just got rid of an affliction on his neck, and can look his friends in the face again."
L. C. Gillette, for the past eight years general agent for John H. Sparks' Shows, has bought the bill posting plant at Ann Arbor, Mich., of Henry C. Willnot. Mr. Gillette writes that he will greatly enlarge and improve the plant at once by building several new iron boards in the busines part of the city. Mr. Gillette has been in the show business since 1883, and now expects to retire from the profession, making Ann Arbor his permanent home. He will devote his entire time to the bill posting business.
Capt. Stewart's Big City Circus is stowed away in winter quarters, at Fort Wayne, Ind., and the captain is getting his vaudeville show ready to open Nov. 14. Walter Lyons, Sam McCarty, John McCarty, Claud Thompson and W. S. Garland have signed with this company.
New York Clipper, November 12, 1904, p. 884. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Mrs. Ida Washburn called at the Clipper office on Nov. 7 and informed us that she was granted an absolute divorce from Leon W. Washburn on Oct. 27 in the Supreme Court of New York.
Seibel Brothers will sell their show property at public auction Nov. 16, at Watertown, Wis.
The Roberts Family, acrobats, closed with the Forepaugh-Sells Show at Charlotte, N.C., on account of the serious illness of Mrs. Roberts.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model winter quarters. We are now snugly ensconsed in our new and comfortable quarters, at Schenectady, N.Y., where active preparations are already under way for the season of 1905. New bodies are being built for all the baggage wagons and a new ticket wagon and dog cage will be added. Mr. Wheeler has just returned from a trip through Central New York, where he purchased a team of beautiful pure white ponies, which will be trained for a tandem menage act during the winter.
Punch Wheeler writes: "I sent the menu for the annual banquet John Robinson give his employees at the season's close. Show's last date is Nov. 14, at Tullahoma, Tenn., where the fifty-five cars are taken in two show trains direct to his winter quarters at Terrace Park, O., ten miles from Cincinnati. They are the finest circus quarters in the world; covers two hundred acres, have steam heated, electric lighted animal houses, two hotels, and two hundred and fifty men are employed all winter, as it requires five months of time to frame up for the regular Summer tour."
Contracting press agent Charles A. White, of Ringling Bros.' Circus, closed his sixth season with that organization Tuesday, Nov. 2, at Corsicanna, Tex. Mr. White has been re-engaged for season of 1905.
Notes from the Miles Orton Big Southern Shows. Our season opened at Suffolk, Va., Oct. 15, under most favorable conditions. We have been playing to the capacity of the tents, both afternoon and night, and business has been far above our expectations. At Rockingham, S.C., we followed the Robinson & Gentry Show, and showed to the capacity of the house. Today (Oct. 28) our first stand in Georgia is our banner day. The business in the South looks very promising. Roster of the show: Norman and Myron Orton, sole owners; Gus Fairbanks, manager; Lew Nickols, superintendent of side shows; Philip Harris, charge of advance; Myron Orton, equestrian director; Norman Orton, treasurer; Mrs. Miles Orton, charge of front door; Martin Simon, leader of big show band; Charley West, leader of No. 2 band; Dick Richards, charge of canvas, with fifteen assistants; Curley, boss property man, with three assistants; Billy McDonald, chef, with four assistants; Jim Wade, boss hostler, with two assistants; Patty O'Brien, train master; Chas. Green, chandelier man, with one assistant; Blackey, seat man. Performers: the Orton Family (five in number), double traps, bicycle high wire, slack wire, carrying act and principal act cloud swing, mule hurdle, menage act, riding dogs and the smallest aerialist on the stage; Clarence and Ira Orton; Jacobs and McCue, barrel jumpers and teeth and hand balancing; Johnson and Brennan and Leon, knockabout clowns. Side show: Lew Nichols, orator; Mrs. Lew Nickols, mind reader; Mrs. Chas. Lovell, snake enchantress; Jack Kuhn, tattooted man; Rogall Bros. (Chas. and Peter), performing bears; the glass workers and Pewee and Nona's troupe of jubilee singers and cake walkers. Concert in charge of Ed. Brennan, headed by the Musical Brennans, followed by Johnson and Miss Nona, West and West, and the great wrestling bear, Sir George. Frank A. Robbins Jr. is in charge of privileges. We carry eighty-five people and expect a long season South.
New York Clipper, November 19, 1904, p. 911. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Prof. Will H. Mead writes: "I have joined hands with Col. M. Schult, the well known dog and cat trainer (for the past five seasons with the Forepaugh & Sells Show), and our show from now on will be known as Shult & Mead's Animal Actors. We feature the Colonel's twelve German boar hounds and my talking horse, Ben Hur. We have fifty-two animals in all, and for an outside attraction we have three dogs on the flying trapeze, thirty-five foot in mid-air, the only act of its kind in the world. The show works under a sixty foot round top, with one forty foot middle piece. The roster is as follows: Col. M. Schult & W. H. Mead, owners and mangers; Peter Meecher, charge of canvas, with five assistants; Fatty Edwards, charge of stock, with two assistants; Mike Singer, props, with one assistant; Prof. Conley, leader of band; Mrs. Schult, treasurer; Prof. C. D. Maitland, charge of ticket wagon; Herry Specks, charge of cook tent, with one helper. This little show will make three and four stands per week through Alabama, Texas and New Mexico."
New York Clipper, November 26, 1904, p. 937. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Harry De Forest's Dog and Monkey Circus closed Nov. 19 a thirty-two weeks' successful engagement with Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Circus. He has been engaged for the 1905 season with Ringling Bros.' World's Greatest Circus, to introduce his heavy juggling act and his dog and monkey act.
Bert Leon writes: "After an absence of ten years I've come home to spend the holidays with my mother, having closed with the Walter L. Main Show. I spent five weeks at the World's Fair with my brother, Earl, and we both went home together, where I shall remain until the opening of the circus season."
Col. W. D. McGrath, of Wilkesbarre, Pa., notifies us that it is his intention to put out one of the finest wagon shows that he can organize. He intends to call the show Yankee Robinson's Old Fashioned Show.
El Nina Eddie, "king of the tight rope," has been engaged for the F. A. Robbins Circus.
Colorado Grant's Wild West Show reports meeting with success, in Arkansas, entering into their tenth week with Louisiana and Mississippi to follow.
Notes from the Frank A. Robbins Show. The heads of departments so far engaged for the All New Feature Shows are as follows: John Purvis, equestrian director; Lucine Foster, master of canvas; H. B. Craig, master of transportation; Arthur Eldridge, superintendent of horses; Fred Merkle, superintendent of sleeping cars, and William Burke, superintendent of lights.
New York Clipper, December 3, 1904, p. 963. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
J. B. Morton writes: "I am at home in Knoxville, Tenn. to spend the winter, after eight years of trouping, twelve months to the season. I shall put out a one ring circus from this point next season."
We have been informed by Chas. L. Sasse, the representative of Antonio V. Pubillones Enterprises in Cuba, that the season opened at the Payret Theatre, Havana, on Saturday, Nov. 5. Business, Mr. Sasse adds, has been something phenomenal, and on Sundays many are turned away. Mr. Pubillones has also leased the Teatro Nacional, beginning Dec. 19. Here are a few of the attractions now appearing at the Circo Pubillones, Havana: Clarke Family of riders, the Clarkonians, aerial act; Escamillo Bros., tight wire act; Les Trois ___, French ring; Bertina, cortortionist; Florence Brockway, in looping the loop; Jack Cousins, principal act; Jolly and ___, French dancers and pantomimists; Ostrado and Caprice Lewis, aerial combination act; Alfred Bannack and son, musical eccentrics and clowns; Castrillon Family of acrobats, and the Todd Judge Family of acrobats. Performers will be sent to Havana every week. Mr. Pubillones has also organized a show to go on the road, and a number two show will be sent out within _ week's time.
R. F. (Tody) Hamilton writes: "An important transaction among circus magnates has just been consummated whereby at least the two largest shows in the world have come to an amicable understanding in regard to route and other harmonious methods of action. James A. Bailey and the Messrs. Ringling Brothers have met and agreed upon a programme that is likely to confer ___ benefit upon everyone engaged in the circus business. While there is no foundation for even a suspicion that any merger or combination is involvedlk sufficient has transpired to warrant the statement that a most thorough understanding has been arrived at, by which the vast and important interests of these two great shows will be conserved. For some time past the leading showmen of the contry have contemplated a sort of 'gentleman's agreement' that would permit of concerted action and enable them to formulate plans that would increas the dignity of the circus profession, and, at the same time, put them in a position to unitedly and successfully combat any impositions that might be forced upon them. By these arrangement and the mutual understanding as to routes and general operation, it is reasonable to expect improved results, as all semblance of warfare will be eliminate, and each show strive to reach the public by its individual strength and attractiveness. It is also a part of the compact to correct many abuses which have seriously affected the operation of these great amusement concersn, and even made them a prey to the unscrupulous, it being the intention to practically abolish the free ticket audience as far as possible, and, to this end, window lithographs will, to a great extent, be dispensed with, and the newspapers used more extensively. Other unfavorable conditions will be met as they arise, and all unjust discrimintations or attempts to levy illegal and excessive fees of any kind will receive prompt and proper attention. Some of these matters have now grown to such unbearable proportions that is has prompted Messrs. Ringling Brothers and Mr. Bailey to take the initiative and apply the forces severally at their command in efforts to effect a remedy. In this they invite the aid of other show men through which it is expectd that these vexatious matters may be properly and satisfactorily adjusted. There can be no discounting the far reaching effects of the agreement between the proprietors of the two big shows. For it contemplates the regulation of routes and other important affairs, the correction of all abuses and the adoption of methods for general betterment of the circus calling. While the concordat arranged between these two big shows can in no wise be considered a combinaton, it may correctly be construed as an associaton for mutual benefit, into which all other shows may enter, as the puropses are comprehended in the motto of the musketeers, "One for all and all for one."
New York Clipper, December 10, 1904, pp. 984, 985. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Nichols Trio, tight wire performers, write: "We have arrived safely at our suburban residence, Crystal Park, Canton, O., hale and hearty after an absence of over five years of almost continuous work. Instead of sailing for Havana, as intended, we will remain at home for a time, where bounteous supplies of the 'good things of the earth' have been laid in for winter. Meantime, while resting, we will create some new stunts for the season of 1905. D. L. Nichols, of the trio, is not dead, as a Chicago report stated, but, on the contrary, he was never in better health in his life."
The Julians and Linda Jeal have arrived home, after a successful season with the Campbell Bros. Show, and are re-engaged for the season of 1905.
G. C. Moyer, who closed a successful season as advance agent for Downie's Circus, and since closing with the circus has been ill with typhoid fever, was able to be out for the first time last week.
Wm. J. Irwin and family are looking at the sights at St. Louis after a season with the Van Amburg Show.
The Jackson Family closed the circus season with the Ringling Show Nov. 18, and went direct to their home in Boston, where, in their private gymnasium, they will at once perfect their bicycling specialty for vaudeville presentation. They are booked on the leading circuits for the winter season and are re-engaged for the Ringling Show as one of the sensational features for next season. Several other feature acts which appeared with the Ringling Show during the past season will be seen in vaudeville this winter. The Dollar Troupe went direct to Chicago, where on Nov. 21, they opened at Hyde & Behman's as an extra attraction for Thanksgiving week. The Tasmanians will be in the bill at Hyde & Behman's, Chicago, week of Nov. 28, and a week later the Camille Comedy Trio will be a feature of the bill at the same house.
Gregory's Banda Rossa, Frank Gregory, director, has been engaged by the Frank A. Robbins All New Feature Shows, also for J. H. Andrews, manager of side show.
Wm. Dierkes, of the Dierkes, writes: "We have just returned from a highly successful tour of South Africa with Texas Jack's American Circus and Wild West Show, with which our act was a special feature. We worked during an intermission when an extra admission was charged, and was the only act during that time. We made a success, especially up country, where the old Boers would crowd around my wife, Wohena (Eagle Eye), after she finished her barrel trick, and want to know if she was a real woman or not. We visited every town of any importance during our tour. All the big towns, such as Cape Town, East London, Port Elizabeth, Pretoria, Johanesburg, Peter Murphy, Durban and Ladysmith, and our act was well received at very place. . . ."
Tom Eck writes from Havana, Cuba, under date of Nov. 20: "We arrived here Nov. 17, and opened at the Peyret Theatre, under the management of Antonio Pubillones, with Florence Brockway riding through the loop the loop. Mlle. Bertina, the toe dancer and contortionist, opened at the same time, and both acts were well received. Sunday was the record day for the house, as every seat was taken and some four hundred people were seated on the stage. This is one of the largest theatres in the world. This is the first time the loop the loop has been seen in Cuba. Miss Brockway and Bertina have been signed for the whole season, ending in April."
Notes from the Schult & Meas Animal Show. We are playing to good business down among the cotton fields, and adding a few features every week. Last week, Prof. Herman Wellerts joined with his school of seventeen spotted white ponies, and they are a feature.
Kid Koster, oppositon agent for Walter L. Main's Shows the past three seasons, is located at Burt's Theatre, Toledo, O.
Frank and Albright (Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Blasser), the past two seasons with the Walter L. Main Circus, are at their home, Lawrence, Mass. Frank and Albright play the Eastern circuit in January.
The Great Stirk Family are at their home in East Boston, Mass., resting.
Horace Webb, clown and gymnast, closed a season of thirty-three weeks with the Ringling Bros.' Shows, at Grenada, Miss., Nov. __, and is re-engaged with the same show for 1905. He opens Dec. 12 with the Shipp Indoor Circus for eleven weeks, which is booked up in opera houses in the middle West.
Mrs. Minnie Snyder, wife of E. D. Snyder, manager of Snyder Brothers & Dowker's Wild West Show, who was associated with her husband in the management of that organization, died at Roodhouse, Ill., Oct. 30, aged thirty-three years. She was considered an able performer in the show. Her husband, one sone, and her father and mother survive her.
New York Clipper, December 17, 1904, p. 1008. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Roster and notes from Geo. S. Ely's Circus. We closed the season of 1904 at Brookport and drove to winter quarters at Paducah, Ky., at the old Victoria mills. The barn is 80x300ft., loft runs full length of the building, covers one acre of ground. We will throw up a 40ft. ring at once and go to training ponies and dogs. We have already commenced to overhaul our wagons. This has been a very successful season, and the right side of the ledger is far ahead of any previous year. We will go out next season larger than ever. During the past season we only lost four days while traveling in three States, and covering a distance of 3,187 miles. The only sad event of the season was the loss of ___, our large riding monkey, who died three days before we closed. Mounted by a taxidermist, he will still be with the show. We will carry fifty-five head of stock and forty people next season.
Ab Johnson has signed with the Barnum & Bailey Shows to do his burlesque mule hurdle act. He goes to Bridgeport the first of the year to practice.
Frank Melville has closed his engagement as equestrian director with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, to accept a contract with the Thompson & Dundy Hippodrome. He takes charge of the equestrian department of the performance. The hippodrome entertainment will include a bareback ballet, executed by twenty-four girls. Their instruction has begun on the broad backs of patient circus ring horses. The hippodrome stage, with a width of 200ft., and a total depth of 110ft., will, it is said, feel the hoofs of two hundred and fifty horses at periods of the performances. In the battle scene, with which the performance concludes, many of the animals meet apparent death in the tumbling waters of a Southern river, which will cover much of the stage.
Harry Bonnell, of the reportoral staff of The Newark (N.J.) Evening and Sunday News, has signed with Hulburd's Wild West, and will join that combinaton in February, at Laredo, Tex., as press agent.
Clarence George and Chas. Fick have just closed a prosperous season with the Gentry Showsl and will take a vacation in hunting at Mr. Fick's home in Missouri.
Wm. F. Melrose, somersault equestrain, closed his fourth season with the Great Wallace Show, Nov. 7, and has signed with the Barnum & Bailey Shows for 1905.
Notes from the Frank A. Robbins winter quarters. Even outside the grand army of the unsophisticated will be found many who believe that the live of the circus "main guy" is "A thing of beauty, and a joy forever." That in Summer his most arduous labor is to gather in all the loose sheckels wherever his city of tents is pitched, while in winter he just luxuriates in all metropolitan luxuries. Particularly at this season the cold fact is that in Summer the big circus man does not, and can not, let grass grow under his feet, or in winter permit them to get falled up by the snow. His bears might escape from their steel-bound lairs, to hibernate in some cave and sleep the long, cold months away, while dreamily obtaining an occasional free lunch while sucking their paws; but for him there is no surcease from continual anxeity, research, vigilance and hard work. Should there be any scepticism on this point, a visit to the winter quarters, at Passaic, N.J., of the Frank A. Robbins Co., all new great feature shows will soon dissipate it. There he will learn something of the hustling, herculean task involved in organizing such an amusement enterprise as this progressive era demands. Under the energetic direction of general superintendent Lucius Foster he will find an army of performers, trainers, keepers, wagon builders, carpenters, blacksmiths, harness makers, wardrobe manufacturers, property men, grooms, etc., working like beavers, to the trumpeting of elephants, the roars of the kings of the jungle and the incessant noise of the hammer, saw and plane. In short, it will be seen that not an hour or a day is being lost in pushing the preparatory work of a circus, menagerie and hippodrome intended to take and hold first rank among similar exhibitions, and to deserve and secure its share of patronage and popularity. Manager Frank A. Robbins states that he has made satisfactory progress in securing the best talent in every department of zoological exhibit and arenic sensation. He has several entirely new spectacular and specialty big and stirring features, not "up his sleeve," but already so far advance in experimental preparation that their production is absolutely assured.
Notes from the McCaddon European Shows. The Potter Family has been very successful in Bostock's Hippodrome in Paris, and has been re-engaged for the rest of the winter season. When they close they will immediately join our show, in which are some of the greatest circus celebrities, among the latest being the Streator Zouaves, who are well known in Europe as they have appeared in a number of the principal European capitals. Mr. McCaddon has bought a pair of giant giraffes from Jos. Herman, Cape Town, S. A. He has also a large consignment of animals from John Hagenback. They will be shipped from Columbo. He has a show about double the size of what he first intended taking over, and in addition to his big list of American circus stars has secured three extraordinary European novelties which will be seen by the public for the first time.
Born to Cecil Lowande and wife (Elena J. Ryland), twin boys, on Dec. 2, at Petersburg, Ill.
New York Clipper, December 24, 1904, pp. 1034, 1038. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Fred A. Hodgson, manager of the Orrin Brothers' Circus, of the City of Mexico, whose headquarters are in the Clipper Building, New York, informs us that the sixth annual opening in their amphitheatre, in the City of Mexico, the middle of January, with the following company: Ricardo Bell, clown and pantomimist, who for twenty-five years has been the leading feature with the circus, and still enjoys undiminished popularity; the Clarkonian, flying trapeze artists; Carnex and Toxin, in a death defying devil's chimney act; the Merrills, bicyclists; Orville and Frank, in their posturing act; Jully and Vilea, French pantomimists and dancers; Leon and Adeline, jugglers; Jessie Miller, cornet soloist; Clara Ballarini, the Parisian beauty, balancing trapeze and dancing act; the Bedini Family, four people, Russian equestrians; Alburtus and Millar, club jugglers and comedians; Mas Suda's Royal Japanese Troupe, Lockhart's troupe of trained elephants, Mons. Cadieux, somersault wire act; Fredhals, Spanish clowns; Three Droles, comedians and dancers; Ju Kim and Chi Suke Oki, troupe of Corean magicians; the Clarke Family, English equestrians; Amelia Feeley, equestrienne; the biograph, with the latest moving pictures, and the Bell Family, eight people, musical eccentrics, clowns, acrobats and pantomimists. Mr. Hodgson will spend Christmas at his old home in Collingwood, Can., and will then return to Merida, Mexico, where the show is now playing.
The Great Wallace Show is now comfortably housed in winter quarters at Peru, Ind., and the management is already engaging people for next season. Novel and costly features will be presented, and the highest class acts in every department will be offered.
An auction sale of circus and show property, without reserve, will be held at the winter quarters of the Adam Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Shows, Columbus, O., on Jan. 10, 1905.
Ernest Albright, calliope player of Gentry Bros.' Show, No. 1, closed his third season with the show Dec. 1, and has been re-engaged for next season, opening early in April.
The Great Norris & Rowe Show, which is now quartered at St. Jose, Cal., is actively preparing for the next circus season. A big sensational act will be featured and the show in every department will be brought to the highest possible point of excellence.
Pat Chappelle writes: "Our baggage car and its entire contents were entirely consumed by fire at Warrenton, Ga., Dec. 10. We have already placed an order for a new canvas and other necessities, and will be on the road shortly. My headquarters will be Augusta, Ga., while refitting there."
Notes from Buffalo Bill's Wild West. The renewal of the paraphernalia for 1905 is well under way at Stoke-on-Trent, and will be shipped to France in the early Spring. Our continental tour opens in Paris about April 1. On Nov. 6, manager Fred B. Hutchinson became the father of a bouncing baby girl. Mother and child are doing well. Geo. O. Starr, managing director of the Barnum & Bailey Circus, who recently arrived from America, is now in Paris. Manager Hutchinson and equestrian director Johnny Baker were recent visitors to the gay French capital. Mr. and Mrs. Baker and Matt Sanders, master of properties with the Wild West, sail for America 7. Ameen Abon Hammed's troupe of Arabian acrobats are in their third week at the Palace Theatre, London. They will shortly appear at the Agricultural Hall Circus. The Black and White Zouaves are also doing well in the music halls. Prof. C. A. Giovanni, our bird and monkey trainer, is visiting relatives in Italy. Chas. F. Griffin has been retained as manager of the side shows for the French tour, this being his third season with the Wild West. Mlle. Octavia, the American snake charmber, will continue one of the leading features of the annex.
George H. Wymann has signed with the Gollmar Bros.' Big New Railroad Shows for the traveling season of 1905.
Thos. L. Finn will run the side show with Downie's Circus next season.
Lew Graham, of the Ringling Show, was in New York last week, looking after next season's side show attractions.
Sam Bernard's O. K. Tent Shows are winterting at Fruit Vale, Cal. This one ring show has been out seven months this year.
Notes from Schult & Mead Show. At New Orleans, on Sunday, Dec. 4, it being the birthday of Col. M. Schult, after the colonel's act in the ring, he was much surprised by Lent Mead stepping into the ring and, in behalf of all connected with the show, presenting him with a beautiful gold headed cane. To day that the Colonel was surprised would be putting it mildly, and the Colonel, who does not claim to be a speech-maker, was for a minute or two dumbfounded, but at last found voice enough to say: "Thank you, to all, thank you." After the performance all were invited to a fine spread in the cook house, prepared by the Colonel's helpmate, Mrs. Schult, and there was something good in store. To this little repast were invited, beside the fifteen people with our show, all members of the Herman Willerts' combined shows, who are also playing in New Orleans. The evening was happily spent in singing good old German songs, story telling, etc., and it was getting pretty late when the party broke up, all wishing the Colonel many more happy birthdays.
Jules Reich, the past season agent of Gentry's Show, No. 2, has just been discharged from the Sisters Hospital, Louisville, having suffered for four weeks with chills and fever. He will leave for the road the first of the year.
New York Clipper, December 31, 1904, p. 1064. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. At our winter quarters, Schenectady, N.Y., things are fast assuming shape for our next tenting season. Several new wagons are being built and all of the old ones are being repaired. In our ring barn several new trained animal acts are well under way, and we will have many suprises to exploit in that department when the red wagons roll out in the Spring. Prof. Clarence Brown, who for the past several seasons has had charge of the band with the M. L. Clark Circus, will be at the head of our musical department. Other people signed are: Mlle. Josephine, aerialist; Jennie Lowery and the Russell Bros. The advance brigades will again be run and a complete new line of special pictorial paper used. Our season will open May 1, 1905.
Hall and Sample notes. F. W. Hall, of the Hall & Sample United Wagon Shows, on Oct. 20 bought Mr. Sample's interest in the show, and it will be known as F. W. Hall's United Wagon Shows. The show closed its season Nov. 12, at Coyville, Kan. It was the best season, financially, that this popular organization has enjoyed since it was founded in 1902. It is now in winter quarters at Coyville, where it will open the season of 1905 April 1. The show will be enlarged and improved and have a new __ft. big top, with two __ft. middle pieces, a ___ musuem and thirty head of horses.
Notes from Bert Silver's One Ring Circus. We are at our home, Standish, Mich., overhauling our show and getting ready for next season. We have added five new wagons, a new band wagon, two sleeping cars, that will accommodate eighteen people, and two passenger busses. A number of our people are engaged, some that were with us last season. We will run about thirty people, twenty horses, a 70x100 tent, besides horse, eating and dressing tents. Will have our own band and orchestra of eight pieces, with the addition of a few other musicians. We are looking for good business, as we have the reputation and the show to back it.
Fred De Carlo writes that he has just closed a successful season of thirty-seven weeks with the Great Floto Shows, being associated with the Great Ellet Troupe, aerial bar gymnasts, and has signed for the season of 1905 in the same capacity.
Antonio Pubillones writes from Havana, Cuba, under date of Dec. 12: "My business is great. I am now running two shows, and will soon start a third. All are well and pleased."
1905
New York Clipper, January 7, 1905, p. 1084. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Christmas with the McDonald Bros. New United Shows in the sunny South. The members of the McDonald Bros. Show had quite a novelty in the way of a Christmas tree and dinner. We had a drive of twenty-four miles, from Adrian to Stillmore, Ga., Christmas Day, and when the show had proceeded about half way a halt was called and the members were told that we would have our Christmas dinner there. The cook wagon was unloaded and table set up and dinner commenced. Imogene, Gipsy and Otis, Harry McDonald's children were sent off to play and the McDonald Bros. - Will and Harry - then began to decorate a tree with toys and presents for all present. When this was finished the children were called back and left to discover the tree, and when they did there was great shouting and screaming "Oh, pape, look, old Santa Claus has been out here in the woods." The members all agreed that it was the most novel and pleasant time they ever had at a Christmas tree gathering. Everyone received a nice present, and then dinner was called and we all sat down and enjoyed ourselves at a splendid Christmas dinner, after which the wagon was loaded and we proceeded on our way to Stillmore, having enjoyed a Christmans that will long be remembered by all present.
Ed. L. Phipps, who was for the past two seasons with the Great Wallace Shows, is out again after a six weeks' illness in a Chicago hospital.
Notes from Bonheur Brothers' Shows. We are still showing under canvas, having lost but six points since May 2, and that on account of stormy weather, every day having been billed in a first class manner. We are now nearing the semi-tropical portion of Dixie's land, showing to good business under tents and sunny skies.
Floyd Bernard, for the past two seasons with the Campbell Bros.' Shows, goes with the Ringling Bros.' World's Greatest Shows, having signed contracts with that organization last October for the season of 1905.
Notes from Welsh Bros.' Newest Great Shows. The winter quarters and business offices of this amusement enterprise have been removed from Gordonville to Lancaster, Pa., and will be located at that place hereafter. Preparations are well under way for next season. The working men at the quarters were remembered by the management with substantial gifts, and an old fashioned yule tide banquet on Dec. 26. A most enjoyable time was indulged in by all present.
Bonheur Bros.' Golden Mascot Show notes. The "starry emblem of freedom" still waves in the breeze, over the centre poles of the Golden Mascot. This has been an exceptionally long season for the show, having opened May 2, at Carmen, adjacent to its winter home, in Oklahoma, and entered Kansas just as the wet weather was beginning to show signs of making bad roads for the troupers. However, the month of July found the show safely beyond the flooded district, with fine weather, good roads and phenomenal business in Nebraska. While the district passed over in the Sunflower State was suffering from disastrous floods, reaching near to the South Dakota line, the return trip was begun, as it was the intention of the managers to extend their territory South to the Gulf, and it was necessary to get below the Southern line of Oklahoma before winter set in. Business was so good, however, that it was a temptation to linger in the territories, where the show had a reputation already established by repeatedly going over the same route. So the show did not reach Texas until Dec. 5, and in a severe snow storm, which caused Henrietta, our first Texas town, to be canceled. The cold wave did not last more than three days when business was again at high water mark. We are now in a semi-tropical region, the weather at this date (Dec. 26) being warm enough for the lightest summer clothing. Children are playing about in bare feet and outdoor games are in progress. The sun shines bright, flowers are in bloom and the show is doing its full seating capacity business at every stand. T. R. Bonheur is at the head of the advance and has proved to be a good pilot and first class adjuster, making friends wherever he goes. The Bonheur Bros. are the first to originate the idea of warming their big tent with drum heaters during cold weather. The tent accommodates over 2,000 people, and "sets" the prettiest of any tent this firm has ever had. The show is routed up to Feb. 8, when it will ship to winter quarters.
Christmas happenings with the Miles Orton Big Southern Show. Christmas Day dawned upon us in the little city of Dade, Fla., and a more beautiful day could not be imagined. Fancy a spot with orange trees with their fruit hanging temptingly and the odor of roses permeating the atmosphere amid a temperature of 88 degrees, and you have an idea of Christmas Day, 1904, in the balmy State of Florida. We arrive early Christmas morning (Sunday), and by the break of day the salutation, "A merry Christmas," was ringing through the cars, and the distribution of gifts began. Norman Orton received a genuine alligator bag from his mother, and innumerable presents from the performers of the show. Myron Orton received a handsome Waltham gold watch and a Taylor suit case from his mother and Mrs. Chas. Cooper, and remembrances from the company of sundry articles. Mrs. Miles Orton was kindly remembered by everybody, as was Mrs. Chas. Cooper, and the little Orton children, Clarence and Iva, got enough toys to stock a first class toy house. Michael Orton received a beautiful hand engreaved signet ring and a handsome ruby set ring. Mr. and Mrs. Lew Nichols received a number of valuable and useful articles. Edward Brennan, of the Musical Brennans, presented Mrs. Brennan with a Taylor trunk; in fact, each and every performer and employee of the show was the recipient of a valuable or serviceable gift. After breakfast was over we began to prepare for our Christmas dinner. The cook house was gayly decorated with flags and moss from the palmetto trees, which grew on all sides of us. Lew Nichols, our genial manager of the annex, was appointed master of ceremonies, and soon the feast was being prepared, under the supervision of our worthy steward, Wm. Sullivan. The feast of good things was brought forth, and all the way the troopers responded to the call for dinner would have delighted the heart of the most fastidious epicurean, as the rapacity of a hungry circus trooper for turkey is something marvelous. After disposing of the many good things it was unanimously declared the most enjoyable Christmas that the participants had celebrated in many years, and helped to alleviate the home longings of the wandering performers, who were many miles from their hearthstones in the North. The roster of the show remains the same as when it opened, and everybody is enjoying good health. The show has been doing nicely with winning strong commendatons from the press and public officials of the South for out up to date performances. There are five tent shows at present touring Florida, but "The Pride of the South" is so well established in Dixie's land that the opposition has no perceptible effect on us.
New York Clipper, January 21, 1905, p. 1132. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Concerning Welsh Brothers' Newest Great Shows. By mutual agreement the partnership of John T. and M. H. Welsh, trading as Welsh Bros.' Newest Great Shows, was dissolved on Dec. 24, 1904, M. H. Welsh retiring from the firm, and the business of this enterprise hereafter will be conducted by John T. Welsh, who is now sole owner and manager. The same liberal policy and clean cut exhibitions will be maintained as has been in vogue with this show during the past eighteen years. New life will be infused into the various departments, and the managerial staff will be composed of able and energetic hustlers. No menagerie will be carried this season, and, as heretofore, a special feature will be made of the "big show" performance. Many prominent headline acts will be engaged, and indications point to one of the best programmes ever offered by this management. A far Western adjunct will be added. It will be billed as "Pastimes in the Wild West," and will be a vivid twenty-five minute reproduction of Western life, introducing Indians, Mexicans, cowboys, scouts and frontier girls, some thirty in number. Wyoming Bill and Prairie Belle, Don Juan Montez and brother, Deadwood Ike, Wild Horse Tom, Nellie Billings and Major Sam Hawkins, the well known Indian scout and interpreter, are among those already engaged. A brass band of genuine Indians will also participate in this spectacle. The following people have signed for other departments: V. O. Woodward, advance car manager; Madame Shelton's troupe of racing ostriches; Josephine Chadwick, magnetic marvel; the Great Dumont, European equestrian; the Three Devolos, whirlwind dancers; Fred and Winnie Elzor, sensational equilibrists; the Gonzales Sisters, aerialists; Bud Williams, clown and concert performer; Henri Schmitt, glockeraneil soloist; Girard Leon, eccentric clown and novelty advertiser; and Harry Shubert, pottery king. Philip Harris is engaged as general contracting agent. The season is carded to open during the latter part of April. There has been an influx of visiting showmen and theatrical folk to our winter quarters during the past several weeks, and all express astonishment at the magnitude and beauty of the new wagons and paraphernalia under way.
Notes from Otto Floto's winter quarters, at Denver. During Christmas week Mr. Floto invited Lew Dockstader, James J. Jeffries and Arthur Dunn to visit the winter quarters at Denver. Besides the "stars" there were nearly one hundred and fifty invited guests, and it was the consensus of opinion that the Great Floto Shows will hereafter be regarded as an important factor in circusdom. We have remarkable larger and fine winter quarters, with ample room for two or three other shows of the largest size. The mild Colorado climate does not subject the valuable animals to the rigorous winter climate of the East, and the show could start tomorrow as far as condition is concerned. The addition of the entire Durbar production, from Luna Park, will give an added brilliacny to the programme of the "Circus Beautiful." The Floto Shows last year covered 10,523 miles. It made three trips to the coast, and was the first circus to visit Alberta and the Assinibola country, in British Columbia. For 1905 all that wealth and experience can accomplish will be at the command of this growing amusement enterprise.
The Great Stirk Family have signed with the McCaddon Show. They are at their home in East Boston, practicing in their private academy.
Notes from Jones' Railroad Show. We are in our forty-second week and playing to good business. This show will not close, but will stay out all winter. The weather is fine here in Florida, and the orange crop is a large one. There are four other tent shows and three carnivals in the State. Complete roster: Augustus Jones, owner and manager; Clarence Erickson, secretary and treasurer; Frank McGuire, press agent and banner man; Bob Peasley, equestrian director; Prof. e. S. Adell, ring master; D. H. Lano, side show manger; E. H. Jones, general agent, with four bill posters; F. McGuire, big show tickets; Richard Salts, reserved seat tickets; J. F. Hall, big show ticket taker; Mrs. Augustus Jones, reserved seat ticket taker. Performers: Bob Peasley, James Brooks, Laroso Sisters, Geo. Parento, Mazie Ward, Peasley Family, Carrie Adell, Jones' troupe of performing dogs and ponies. L. L. Griswold's concert band, with: Ira D. Ibbitson, Will Clark, Jim Greer, Paul Franklin, John Reynolds, Joe Rose, Stewart ___, George ___, and Bright Jones.
___ Garsinetti writes from Havana, Cuba, as follows: "The Marvelous Garcenetti Family is in its fifth week with Pubillones' Circus, Habana, Cuba, and has been very successful. I have added several new feature tricks and one of the finest wardrobes ever displayed in acrobatic acts. Antonio Pubillones gave a big Christmas supper Dec. 25, to all members of his company, at the Cafe Central, after the second performance, that started at midnight, Dec. 24, during which people were turned away."
Mlle. Amy, sword swallower, formerly of the Forepaugh-Sells Show, has signed with J. T. McCaddon's Show for the European tour.
Barnes' animals sailed for Havana, Cuba, Jan. 5, to open with Pubillones Circus.
Henry Maseda, representative of Pubillones' Circus, was in town last week, making arrangements for the season in Cuba. The three shows are now touring in Cuba and playing to big business in the principal theatres. The season at the Payret Theatre, Havana, has been excellent. Dr. Chas. B. Klock has created quite a furore with the liquid air exhibition. Mr. Maseda will take a number of acts with him, including Al. G. Barnes' animal show.
Signorita El Salvo has signed with Ringling Bros. for the coming season.
Manager Fred A. Hodgson, of the Orrin Show, sailed Jan. 5, to join the show in Merida.
W. C. St. Clair, the past two seasons opposition agent with the Great Wallace Shows, has been engaged to manage the advertising car with the Gentry Bros. No. 2 Show.
The Todd Judge Family have returned from Cuba after a successful engagement at the Payretto Theatre, Havana, Cuba. They have signed with the Barnum & Bailey Show for next season.
M. L. Clark's Combined Shows closed at New Orleans, La., Jan. 10, and will re-open there about March _.
Notes from Frank B. Hubin's New United Shows, in winter quarters at Atlantic City, N.J. Everything is progressing in fine shape. This neat little outfit will open its 1905 season early, and will present a very clever performance. The show has a very good reputation throughout the inland towns of New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland, and is always welcomed. Manager Hubin has friends by the score and the visit of his show is always hailed with delight. Three cars comprise the outfit.
Alfonzo White, lecturer and entertainer, the last two seasons with the Ringling Shows, has just left the hospital at Oconomowoc, Wis., where he has been a patient since Nov. 26, with typhoid fever. Mr. White was booked for the entire winter season, opening at Sharon, Wis., with a first class vaudeville company, when sickness overtook him. He is now at his home, at Brighton, Ia.
Pawnee Bill notes. The organizing of Pawnee Bill's Wild West and Great Far East for the season of 1905 is nearly at an end. The heads of departments have all been engaged, and we have secured for the Great Far East department a number of foreign people who were never before seen in this country. They will appear in the parade, dressed in their national costumes, riding in the conveyances and using the animals that are used for transportation in their native countries. Some of these vehicles are very elaborate affairs of Oriental magnificence, and others are crude affairs used by the primitive aborigines of the islands in the South Seas, but all will add to the novel feature of our Far East parade that created such a sensation last year. Our parade last year was pronounced the most novel street pageant ever presented by any traveling tented show. A number of sensational features for the arena have been secured. The principal one is the Boer War, which proved such an attraction at the St. Louis Exposition. It will be presented as a spectacular finish to the Wild West, over two hundred people will be employed, and an immense amount of paraphernalia that cannot be secured in America, will be brought direct from South Africa. We have contracted with a number of Boer and English officers, who served with distinction during the Boer War. It will be necessary to carry considerable scenery, for which we have under construction a wagon expecially arranged to carry it. To illustrate the magnitude of this production, a pool of water 200 feet long and 100 feet wide will be used. As only the larger cities will be played there will be no trouble experienced regarding the water supply. The pool will also be used to present several Wild West acts that have never been presented with a Wild West show. Major Lillie has just purchased a sixty-five foot car for the advance. It is being fitted up at Wilmington, Del., and will be the most elaborate advertising car in show business.
Orville and Frank, who are now playing for the Orrin Bros., in Mexico, will return to America in time to play for Tony Pastor before joining the Barnum & Bailey Circus, where they are engaged for next season. They write that they are enjoying themselves. Mrs. Orville and Master Chester Orville are with them.
Christmas happenings with the James Shelby Show. At Irwinville, Ga., we made only a late afternoon show and towards evening began to make preparations for a surprise, and a Christmas tree that would be worthy the attention of the two little children, Edna Ogden and little Tottie Davene, who had put in a twenty-one months' season with the show without sickness or an accident. Christmas was a joyous day for them, as our advance agent. W. H. Ashdown, was called back for the occasion, and the children then knew there would be "something doing." "Shorty" had been staying behind the show, outside of town, for two days, trying to keep a little pony phaeton hidden until time for old "Santa Claus." On that beautiful night in the sunny South they began fixing for the Christmas tree. The children's phaeton was placed in the cook tent, a Christmas tree was place in the phaeton and nicely decorated, and many valuable presents were placed thereon. Messrs. Ogden and Hardy, proprietors of the show, were well remembered by members of the company and received many valuable and useful presents. Mrs. Lizzie Ogden was the recipient of a beautiful diamond ring; Mr. Ashdown, our worthy advance agent, was presented with a handsome gold watch, and a beautiful ring, presented by Chas. Ogden and Ed. Hardy, the proprietors or the show. Hattie Francis was presented with a beautiful bracelet, and handsome ring and several other nice presents from members of the company. Little James Shelby was not forgotten; he received a fine overcoat, with leggings to match, and toy locomotives and engines. Christmas Day was indeed a day long to be remembered by the little folks and many of the older ones. The show will leave Albany, Ga., for the season of 1905 enlarged and improved, and with a brighter appearance. The wagons will have a coat of white paint. The show will travel in Southern Georgia and Alabama until Spring. A phenomenal business was done in the Carolias and Georgia all last season.
Thompson & Dundy, of Luna Park, announced last week that on May 1 they will put a 100 car circus on the road. For the first season at least, the circus will act as a curtain raiser for the Hippodrome, New York, exhibiting ring, acrobatic and electric light specialties that the Hippodrome will have when it opens. Frederick McClellan, agent for the firm, has been in Europe for several months buying animals for the menagerie and making contracts for performers.
Grace A. Hamilton, in her musical and calliope playing, closed a successful season Nov. 7, with the Sells & Downs Show, at Chickasha, I. T. She has signed with the same show for the season of 1905, and has returned from a successful engagement of six weeks with the Hamilton Sisters' Concert Co.
New York Clipper, January 28, 1905, p. 1157. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Washburn and De Alma notes. A new claimant for public patronage will appear in the tented field the coming season, to be known as Washburn & De Alma's Famous Trained Animal Shows. Leon W. Washburn and John De Alma are the proprietors. The winter quarters at Corona, Long Island, have presented a busy appearance for many weeks past. Everything will be new from stakes to bunting, and the show in general will be far ahead of any previous exhibition of a like nature. Fifty ponies and one hundred dogs are now at school in the winter quarters, and are being brought to a high state of training under the tutorship of a corps of expert animal teachers. Two baby elephants, Highball and Roosevelt, are daily practicing tricks (seeming impossible) with which they expect to astonish the amusement seekers. An ensemble of animals in nature antagonistic to each other, are being put through their stunts, and "verily, the lion and the lamb shall lie down together." Four cars will be required to transport the show, and the heads of departments are being selected with the greatest regard to fitness for the position each will hold. The printing is all special, of new and beautiful design, each sheet a work of art. Mr. De Alma is now playing dates in vaudeville with a number of animals which have already graduated from high school. The canvas will be illuminated by a new lighting systerm, which can be controlled at the will of the operator, and a number of novel and startling effects will be produced with the aid of spot lights and colored films. All wardrobe, trappings, uniforms and parade paraphernalia are being brought to a rapid state of completion and will be rich and costly. The show will open the last week in April.
Notes from Pawnee Bill's Wild West and Great Far East Co. The designs for the printing to be used by this show, this season, have just reached the office, and it is safe to say the standard set by Pawnee Bill years ago, to have the best selection of paper possible, will be upheld this year. The stands, depicting the Boer War spectacle, are exceptionally fine, the coloring is wonderfully bright and the subjects very sensational. Pawnee Bill is so sanguine of the drawing powers of the Boer War that he has ordered his printing so as to make it the feature in the billing this year. When Major Lillie, last Fall, decided to produce the Boer War, he arranged with the largest lithograph house in this country to make this feature an exceptional attraction, and several firms sent their artists to the St. Louis Exposition, where they remained for weeks, looking over the production running there and interviewing people who have spent the greatest part of their lives in the Transvaal, the object being to have everything as near perfect - both the billing matter and the scenery used in the production - as it is possible to make it. We have already several men at work breaking horses for this production, some to fall with their riders when they are given a certain cue, others to walk out of the arena lame. In fact, this will be presented with as near an approach to realism as it is possible to obtain.
Harry Rentzs, globe trotter, has signed for next season with the Frank A. Robbins Circus, to do his hurdle act with his famous mule, Maud.
Forepaugh-Sells notes. The Great Adam Forepaugh and Sells Brothers' Circus is now equally owned by James A. Bailey and the Ringling Brothers. The show is to be enlarged and newly equipped in every department. The menagerie is to be added to until it compares with the standard set by its famous owners. Cages, dens, lairs, tableau floats, musical wagons, chariots and wheeling structures for parade display are to be built after unique designs, and luxuriously colored and ornamented. Only the best bred and formed horses of the Forepaugh-Sells collection are to be retained, and the investment in blue blooded young horses will equal almost the purchase price of the show. The equine exhibition is to be a special and brilliant feature, and the performers are to be only those of exceptional ability and invention. Acts of novelty and exclusiveness are to dominate the immense programme. The circus performance in its entirety will be sensationally attractive, so far as talent and judgment can ___. The executive staff and heads of departments are to be men of rare experience and proved ability, and the morale of the working department of the same general tone associated with the name of the owners. The Forepaugh-Sells Circus will be conducted independently, with responsible heads, and upon a broad and original policy of its own. The street pageant is to be beautiful and ___. Sleeping cars of the latest pattern are to be provided. Every property and costume is to be new. The purpose of the owners is to make the Great Adam Forepaugh-Sells Brothers' Circus one of the greatest arenic institutions in the world, and under the proprietorship of James A. Bailey and Ringling Brothers this end will without doubt be attained.
W. Merrick, who is at present leader with the Shipp Winter Circus, has been engaged to lead with J. T. McCaddon's Circus in Europe. Mr. Merrick has been with the Sells Bros. (later the Forepaugh & Sells) Circus for the past twenty-five years, also has been identified with the Van Amburg Show, the Wallace Circus, the original J. H. Haverly Minstrels, etc., and is the oldest circus leader in point of continuous active service in the country.
Florence Brockway and Mlle. Bertina closed a successful two months' engagement with Pubillones' Circus, at Havana, Cuba, and arrived here Jan. __.
___ Nichols writes: "I recently returned to my Worcester home from Japan, together with a contingent of imperial Japanese crack cavalry cossacks, all of whom have seen active service in the army of the land of their nativity. My constituents are fancy riders and wll drilled horsemen in every respect. I have already personally executed designs in the Chinese poster style for our lithographs. We are under contract with a circus for next season. I was with Pawnee Bill's Wild West, in charge of Filipian and Chinese cavalrymen."
Notes from Welsh Bros.' Shows. Mr. and Mrs. Jack Cousins, equestrians, have signed to go with Welsh Bros.' Newest Great Railroad Shows. In addition to their riding display, Mrs. Cousins will present a new and novel menage act, in which she employs two thoroughbred horses and six Russian wolf hounds. Mr. Cousins will also act in the capacity of equestrian director, a position that he has acceptably filled for three season with this organization. Smith and Leslie, Irish comedy sketch, will also appear in the after show. Max Hugo, who styles himself as a "principal promoter" of arenic fun and comicality juggler," has signed with the shows for the summer season. Mr. Hugo has a flock of trained geese that are an important factor in one of his clown entrees.
Major John M. Burke and Frederick Hutchinson, managers of Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show, sailed last week to prepare for the opening of the season on the Champs de Mars, in Paris. The show will tour every country in Europe except Russia in the next three years. The military parade grounds of eleven acres have been leased for six months, and will be fenced for the show.
Dr. Clark, known as "Diavalo," a bicyclist, during a performance at ___, Cuba, Jan. __, was probably fatally injured. Wile alighting after a leap his bicycle broke, fracturing his skull.
Harry La Roy has signed with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows for the coming season to do his pedestal bar and comedy juggling acts.
Wyoming Jack and Prairie Nell have signed with the J. T. McCaddon Show to be featured as expert rifle shots.
Notes from the Canada Frank Show. This is our thirty-seventh week under canvas. We have toured Iowa, Minnesota, North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Indian Territory, Texas and Louisiana. Business has been better than any previous season in the show's history. We showed at Kirbyville, Tex., New Year's eve, and at midnight, after the car was loaded, the ban turned out, and played "Dixie" to the accompaniment of a score of the inevitable Texas six shooters, in the hands of some of the young natives. The roster is as follows: F. M. Myers, sole owner and manger; Mrs. F. M. Myers, ticket taker in big show; Winifred Myers, reserved seats; Walton Bros., double traps and double comedy juggling; Edwin ___, slack wire; Hilbert, single traps; Prof. Chas. Dryden, barrel kicking and balancing; Jack Mahoney, singing and talking clown; Bert Myers and Maloney, revolving ladder and comedy tumbling; Maude Myers, songs and dances, and little Myrtle Myers, in songs. The band: Prof. Edward Hobart, leader and solo cornet; Mrs. Marie Hobart, first cornet; Frank Keefe, baritone soloist; Jim Vitamoas, tuba; Mrs. Dorn Myers, solo alto; Winifred Myers, tenor; E. J. Walton, trombone; Maude Myers, first alto; Bert Myers, snare drum; H. S. Hoag, bass drum. Bert Redd, master of properties; Henry Kline, boss canvas man, with three assistants; "Slim" Andrews, seat and chandelier man; Willie Loftis, car boy. We expect to run about three weeks longer under canvas, and then play opera houses, reaching Tipton, Iowa, about March 10.
New York Clipper, February 4, 1905, p. 1180. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Pawnee Bill's Wild West. Pawnee Bill's policy, in force last year, prohibiting all games of chance, sixty cent tickets and other objectionable features, will be strictly adhered to the coming season. Everything possilbe for the convenience and comfort of our patrons will be done. The seating capacity of our grand stand will be doubled this year. The blue seats will also be increased and changed so that all seats will have a foot rest. Ernie Houghton is now in Chicago, purchasing a car load of draught stock, and all the teams in our parade will be increased in size. Major Lillie has closed large orders for parade harness. Every effort will be made to have the paraphernalia of this show the finest that money can buy.
Notes from Wm. P. Hall Shows. Everything at winterquarters is going along finely, and the show is almost ready to go on the road. Mr. Main had the show overhauled and nearly painted up when he sold to Mr. Hall. Mr. Hall has ordered from Europe six small elephants, which will be trained as soon as they arrive. They will present one of the best elephant acts in the world. If the trainer makes good his promises. This show has the distinction of being the only show owned by one man having two distinct winter quarters and menageries. At the winter quarters in Geneva, they are rehearsing the seventy horse act, and all the trained stock of the former Walter L. Main Shows. The lions and tigers are being trained for the open dens, under the able direction of Mark Monroe. At the winter quarters, Lancaster, Mo., Prof. Mayo is busy breaking in the ring stock, cake walking horses, high school and menage horses and his great equine triumph, the quadrille dancing ponies. The war elephant, Biff Bang, claimed to be the largest in the world, and the other elephants are put through their stunts daily by their Oriental trainer, Ali Bey, who has great control over these sagacious and monster beasts. It is a sight that astonishes the naties to see the driving llamas and trained zebras taking their daily exercises. Phillip Ellsworth is a busy man answering the congratulatory letters from friends all over the country as to his advancement in the profession. He goes at this work like an old time manager, and every detail is attended to. The development of this show and its many new and novel features will be a revelation to the circus world.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. Mr. Wheeler has just returned from Cambridge, Vt., where he purchased the greater part of the C. N. Styles Show outfit, which will be added to the New Model, nearly doubling it in size for next season's tour. Leon Yeaton, who for several years past has been engaged as general agent. Two advance brigades will be run, and we will have the finest line of paper of any small show in America. Among the latest people signed are: Prof. C. F. Brown, as band leader, who will have a band of ten pieces: Ira Krautzman, baritone soloist; Mlle. Josephine, aerial performer; Harry La Ruy, pedestal bar and comedy juggling, and Belmont's donkeys. Ed. H. Bell will have the candy stand and refreshment privileges, for his second season. We will open about May 1.
Fritz A. Young, formerly of Sells and Young, sailed for Europe Jan. 21, returned to fill European engagements in his new pantomime act.
Thomas J. Myers has been re-engaged as press representative with the Norris & Rowe twenty car circus. The season opens early in March, on the Pacific coast.
Clermont's Big Band will be with J. T. McCaddon's Circus. The members sail in March. Al. E. Holman has charge of the colored performers, and has just completed arrangements with director Clermont.
Jas. G. West has signed for the coming season with the Great Norris & Rowe Shows.
H. J. Williams, of the Sun Bros.' Show, was a visitor to the Miles Orton Show, at St. Augustine, Fla., Jan. 21, and enjoyed a very pleasant visit. The show is on the East coast of Florida, and doing a fine business.
Notes from Drake & Falkner's United Railroad Shows, Circus, Menagerie and Wild West. This is one of the new shows which will take the road this season. Since this partnership was formed last July, hardly a day has passed that an addition has not been made to the already extensive outlay. During the recent horse show at Madison Square Garden we purchased "Brownie," one of the most perfect little ponies in the world. A force of carpenters has been busy replacing old property and building new. Our cars will be new and the accommodations of the best. The parade will show a representative of each country. The wardrobe is being completed by a well known firm. From the outlook the Drake and Falkner Show will be a strong bidder for the circus business this season.
J. Shelley, the band leader, writes that he is spending the winter with G. W. Christie, on his farm on James River, Va.; and has closed a deal for a two hundred acre farm fourteen miles from Richmond, nearly all in fine timber. He states that in one day's hunting he brought in five wild turkeys, besides several squirrels. Messrs. Shelley and Christie are figuring on a gasoline launch for fishing and hunting.
A. J. Anderson will be manager of privileges with Jones' Model Plate Showk and Charles A. Robbins will be manager of privileges with Welch Bros.' Show.
New York Clipper, February 11, 1905, p. 1204. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
An important deal was entered into at Lancaster, Pa., on Jan. 26, between Sig. Sautelle and John T. Welsh. A company was organized, under the title of Sig. Sautelle's & Welsh Brothers' Combined Shows (Limited), and incorporated with a capital of $50,000. The best material and people of the Sautelle and Welsh shows will be used in this new union, and the new firm promise a most pretentious enterprise. Messrs Sautelle and Welsh will personally manage the show. The winter headquarters and business offices will be located at Lancaster, Pa. The entire equipment of tents, rolling stock and paper will be entirely new.
Mlle. La Voie has joined the Stirk Family to open for a European tour with McCaddon's Big European Show in March.
William Williken has signed with G. W. Hall's Circus and Menagerie as principal talking and singing clown. He is at present with the "Uncle Josh Spruceby" Co., Eastern, playing the Dutch comedy role and managing the stage.
Cameron has signed with the Andrew Downie Circus for the coming tenting season for the side show and concert.
Edgar Geyer has, after thirty consecutive years in the circus business, both in this country and abroad, retired from the business and accepted a position as official court stenographer in the criminal court at Tacoma, Wash. He was for many years one of the Marlatta Brothers, the Robardo Brothers, and for the past six years has been one of the Two Geyers, acrobats. The other member of the team, Tote Geyer, joins the Barnum Show at Madison Square Garden in March for the coming season, to work alone.
James W. Price writes from Vera Cruz, Mexico, under date of Jan. 22: "Just a few lines to let you know that the Matsuda Royal Japanese Troupe is under my management. We left New York about six weeks ago, under an eight weeks' engagement with Orrin Bros.' Circus. We opened in Marida, Yucatan, where the troupe met with success. We played Merida, Campeche and Pragresso, all in Yucatan. We arrived here two days ago. We leave tomorrow for Mexico City, where we finish in about four weeks, and will return to New York to join McCaddon's New Circus for the season in Europe, and also have a contract with the above circus for a daily balloon ascension as a free attraction. Orrin Bros. have got a fine circus, and business has been big. The weather is very warm here (94 in the shade), but everybody with the circus is enjoying good health."
Sophia Victoria North Hildreth died in Brooklyn, N.Y., Jan. 12. She was the daughter of Levi J. North, the celebrated equestrian, vaulter and circus manager, who died in Brooklyn July 6, 1885. When quite young she married Philo Nathans, from whom she was afterward divorced. She then married Frank Hildreth, a former treasurer and business manager for Tony Denier, the celebrated clown.
Rippel Show notes. We are hustling at our winter quarters in order to be ready for next season. We have added two more wagons to the outfit, a ticket wagon and advance wagon, also four more lengths of seats, as has been our rule every season, for we have not had enough seats, although we have added from one to three lengths every season. Have also increased the size of our top three times. We make the same route each season, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio, so our little wagon show must give satisfaction, or we could not increase capacity and show every season in the same territory.
Notes from Pawnee Bill's Wild West Shows. Frank Smith (California Frank) and Wenona have contracted with this show for the coming season, making the second with this company. Wenona is one of the greatest of lady rifle shots, her shooting objects from horseback being rarely equaled. They are now perfecting an act which will show the progress the Indian has made toward civilization, starting at the Indians' most primitive state. Considerable time will be required, but it will be completed by the beginning of next season, and will be presented at the principal vaudeville theatres in America and Europe.
Albert Gaston, singing and talking clown, has signed with Frank A. Robbins' Big R. R. Show for the coming season, this making his twenty-ninth year beneath the white tents.
Prof. O. Burr has been engaged by Seibel Bros., of Watertown, Wis., as musical director. They will carry a band of sixteen men, and under the able direction of Prof. Burr they anticipate having a fine concert band. This is Prof. Burr's second season with the show.
John Purcell, and old time privilege man of circuses, died at Gibson City, La., Jan. 25. He was with M. L. Clark's Circus at the time of his death. The whereabouts of his family is desired by Harry Squires, Abbeville, La.
J. R. McBeth has signed for the season of 1905 with Knight's Mammoth Circus, as a musician.
New York Clipper, February 18, 1905, p. 1229. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Fletcher Smith writes as follows: "I will close my fifth season as agent of the McPhee attractions at North Bay, Can., about April 1, and after a brief vacation will go out in charge of the advance brigade of the McPhee Big One Ring Circus. The present season has embraced a trip from St. Paul through Manitoba and the Northwest Territories, and business has been the largest in the history of the show. Next season Mr. McPhee contemplates putting out two shows to make a trip to the coast and return, from St. Paul. During the winter painters and decorators have been busy at Medina, N.Y., and the circus will go out next season unexcelled or eclipsed by any wagon show in America. The giant horse, twenty-two hands high, which was a leading feature of the side show last season, died at the winter quarters a short time ago, and was a great loss to the show, as it was a great drawing card with the farmers. Thos. Kinn, who used to get them in with the Sautelle show, will manage the side show again this season, and J. B. Swafford will be the general agent."
Luis Villanova writes from San Jose, Costa Rica, as follows: "In the history of amusement enterprises in South American countries, no circus has ever been known to do the phenomenal business that the Tony Lowande Circus and Menagerie is enjoying in San Jose, Costa Rica. The company was in Panama, doing big business, when the Costa Rica government made a special effort to get the company to San Jose for the great feasts of December, paying all steamship and railroad fares from the City of Panama to San Jose, besides a presentation in United State gold, free printing, free ground and license. We are showing to crowded houses daily and nightly, and turnaways are not uncommon occurrences. Our prices of admission are the highest ever charged in these countries. Mr. Lowande is the first proprietor to bring to these countries high class trained wild animals such as are to be found in his collection, including the famous riding lion, Wallace. Another feature he has introduced, which has been accepted by the people most favorably and which no other show has ever done, is the giving of two shows daily, the same as in the States. The company will go from here to Venezuela, then return to Panama, with Ecuador, Peru and Chili to follow. It is more than probably that at the conclusion of this cruise, 1906 will find Tony Lowande casting lots with some of the greater American managers."
Notes from Bonheur Bros. It seems that the birds of the North have kept right along with the Golden Mascot Show on its long journey toward the Gulf of Mexico. The meadow larks greet the troopers at early morn in the heart of winter, just as they did all summer further North, only there are more of them. They go about in flocks, as many as fifty being seen together in the fields along the roadside. Blizzards are so numerous and so tame that they will sit low on the trees and fences and wait for the vans to pass within the distance of a long whip lash, and seem astonished at any attempt to disturb them. The chepparel bird is a rare sight to the troopers from the north. It runs to cover like a wood pheasant at the approach of the wagons, and it is not often we get a good look at one. The country abounds with small red squirrel and is fairly alive with fat opossum, which, served by process of barbecue, graced many of our holiday dinners in Texas. It is remarkable how the Texasn at this season of the year patronize the Golden Mascot Show, and it seems odd to be showing under canvas to such crowds in the dead of winter. The people are demonstrative and extremely noisy in their applause, and some times add a few pistol shots to accentuate their appreciation. Although they mean this only in a friendly salute it does not tend to create a taste for more on it. At Stephenville the Morgans Mills boys were out to witness the performance and to prevent, if possible, any extraordinary free use of firearms, the sheriff swore in forty deputies, and there was only one shot fired during the evening. The big top was packed to its full seating capacity.
W. S. Dumington has been engaged to manage advertising car No. 1, with Carl Hagenbeck Trained Animal Shows for the coming season.
The Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows will add a small menagerie the coming season, a cage of lions, cage of bears and several cages of small animals being the latest acquisitions.
Frank J. Hurley, of Elizabeth, N.J., novelty musical performer, who was with Hargreaves' Big R. R. Shows last season, has signed for this coming season with Sig. Sautelle and Welsh Bros.' Combined Shows.
L. J. Chamberlain, bandmaster, has signed with Sig. Sautelle & Welsh Bros.' Combined Shows for the season of 1905.
Joe La Fleur played the Mid-winter Exposition, Topeka, Kan., week of Jan. 30; the Orpheum, New Orleans, La.; Metropolitan, St. Paul, Minn., and the Dominion, at Winnipeg, and reports fine success. Mr.La Fleur has signed with the Forepaugh-Sells Bros. Shows the summer season, to do his sensational aerial act.
Recent engagements for the Frank A. Robbins Greatest of All New Feature Shows are as follows: the Greggs, double leaping and looping the gap; Josie Ashton, Johnnie Rooney, Joe Cousins and Mrs. Cousins, principal riders; Harry Rentz, mule hurdle; Three Heumanns, trick bicyclists; Four Gregorys, aerial bars; Two Elletts, trapeze; Billy Carroll and wife and trick mule; the Wentz Duo, gymnasts; Four Daros, aerial bars; the Kosters, Hippodrome riders; El Nino Eddie, bounding wire; H. Inman, elephant posturing; Mlle. Janta, web act; Albert Gaston, clown; Charles Blitz, clown juggler; Willy Shrode, principal clown; Mlle. Wonderly, snake enchantress; Flossie La Blance, strong woman; Jean Foster, minstrel; Harry Shipman, minstrel; Jonathan Purvis, equestrian director. Additional to this programme Mr. Robbins has contracted with a well known producer of spectacular novelties for the historical spectacle, "The Tribunal of Nations," introducing the rules of the world covering a period of one hundred years.
Claude M. Rood, slack wire walker, hs been for the past three months breaking in a new routine of stunts for his act that are entirely new. He has signed with the Frank A. Robbins Shows for next season.
Frank Ellet, manager of the Great Ellet Troupe, is visiting with his wife at McKees Rocks, Pa., for a few weeks. The troupe is signed with one of the big shows for next season.
F. W. Falkner writes: "The Drake & Faulkner New United R. R. Shows recently purchased the bulk of the McFarland & Holder Shows at the sale in Philadelphia. Our entire train of cars, including the advance cars, are now in the shops being overhauled, and will have the appearance of new on our opening.
Will C. Nello, magician and Punch, last season with Gollmar Circus, goes with Lambrigger's Zoo next season.
W. W. Power has acquired the four performing war elephants of the Walter L. Main Shows. He has been successful in vaudeville with these big animals, and a new sensational act, now preparing, will be presented in three weeks. Mr. Power says this will astonish the public, as he claims nothing like it has ever been presented in America.
New York Clipper, February 25, 1905, p. 25. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from La Mont Bros.' Show. We are very comfortably located in our winter quarters in Salem, Ill. Work is moving along very nicely in all departments. The ring barn, carpenter and paint shops are kept very busy, and will be from now on until Spring, as the show will be greatly enlarged for the season of 1905. Last season was the most prosperous in the history of the show. C. D. Randolph is busy at work breaking a team of trick mules, which he says will be ready for the opening of the show, and will be one of the best acts of its kind ever placed before the public. Mr. Fergerson, of the Fergerson Show Print Co., of Logan, Ia., spent a very pleasant week's visit with us a short while ago.
David H. Haley, for eight years agent of Sig. Sautelle's Circus, has signed with the Frank A. Robbins All New Feature Shows for next season, in the same capacity.
Pop Brown writes: "My No. 1 show closed its tenting season Oct. 1, at Malone, N.Y., in its usual S. R. O. business. The No. 2 show closed at Bloomsburgh, Pa., Oct. 15, to the same business. Next season we will have a large one ring circus, forty wagons, main top 120x220. This has been a busy winter around our winter quarters, but everything is nearly completed, and will be up to date in every department."
Campbell Show notes. Lew Barretta has been engaged as the side show manager of Campbell Bros.' Circus, which is a twenty-five car circus, with winter quarters at Fairbury, Neb. The show will be much larger and better than in past years. The side show will carry fourteen different attractions, and will be as big and strong as any on the road.
J. Henry Rice was a Clipper caller Feb. __. Mr. Rice will, the coming season, again be general agent with Hargreaves' Big Railroad Shows and Menagerie, his fourth season in this capacity with this show. Everything is going nicely at winter quarters, and Mr. Rice states that they have made many improvements and additions to the show and that it will be stronger in every way this season than ever before. Frank Longbottham, treasurer for manager Hargreaves, is now on a Western trip in the interest of the show.
Notes from the Miles Orton Southern Shows. We embarked from the city of Miami, Fla., for the Bahama Islands. Our trip was blessed with ideal weather. As we hove in sight of the picturesque city of Nassau, which is the capital of the Bahamas, our band struck up the national anthem, "God Save the King," and as the first notes floated out upon the air, the natives came rushing down to the landing pell mell. As soon as we landed and got through with the custom officials, we started to the show lot, and every load that left the wharf was followed by a cheering crowd offering us assistance. We landed on Tuesday, but did not open until Wednesday night, and when we gave our parade it was almost impossible to get through the streets. It required a number of native police to keep the people in check, and as soon as we opened our doors there was an immense crowd clamoring for admission for our first three performances. All our reserved chairs and boxes were sold out in advance, and standing room was at a premium. On our third night (which was designated as Governor's night) we had the pleasure of entertaining Sir Grey Wilson, Governor of the Bahama Islands, and his staff. His excellency was greatly pleased with our show, and wrote the management a personal letter of thanks for the pleasure afforded him. The idea of a concert, after the show, was an innovation in this country, as it had never been attempted before, but is was a decided success. A great deal of credit is due Gus Fairbanks, our general contractor, who so successfully piloted our Bahama engagement, also Philip Harris, general agent, for the manner in which he heralded our coming, and the Orton Brothers, for their enterprise in undertaking the trip, which has culminated so successfully. The roster of the show is as follows: Mrs. Miles Orton, sole owner; Norman Orton, general manager; Myron Orton, business manager; Gus Fairbanks, general contractor; Philip Harris, general agent; the Great Alfton, the Orton Troupe of Aerialists, Alfred Heintz, Orton Bros., Michael Cahill, Norman Orton, A. Heintz, Jacobs and McCue, the Orton Children, Wm. McCue, John Jacobs and Norman Orton. Clowns: Ed. Brennan, Myron Orton, Ed. Johnson and Master Clarence. Band No. 1, ___'s Royal Italian Infantry Band. Performers in concert: the Musical Brennans, Ed. Johnson, Edward Brennan, Peter Rogatt and his troupe of dancing and wrestling bears. Side shows: Lew Nichols, manager; Prof. West, leader of band; Capt. David Satlip, high diver; Mlle. Zelda, snake enchantress; the Alabama Students, Mme. Leland, mind reader; Charles Williams, comedy juggler; Prof. Nicholl, magician; Dave Lastlip and George ___, ticket sellers; Dick Richards, superintendent of big top; John ___, seat man; Ed. Earnest, superintendent of props; Pete Moran, superintendent of stock; John Robinson, superintendent of lights; Wm. McDonald, first cook; William Sullivan, steward. Privileges, Mrs. Chas. Cooper. Butchers, Lew Washburn and William Sullivan.
Chas. Darling will be the general agent of the Castello & Graves Big Shows the coming season.
The organization of the Adam Forepaugh & Sells Brothers Enormous Shows Combined is now practically complete. Henry Ringling will be the manager and A. J. Ringling the general agent. The equipment of the show will be new from the smallest stake to the widest canvas. The area of canvas will be enormous because the menagerie will be enlarged and also the seating capacity of the ring tent. The men for the different working departments are thoroughly experienced and strikingly known for effective work. Besides the new sleepers and cars added this year the cars heretofore used have been rebuilt and painted by the Pennsylvania Railroad Company at their general repair shops in Columbus, O. This rebuilding contract is the largest ever given to a car building company by a circus. It is the desire of James A. Bailey and the Ringling Brothers to give the employees of the reorganized and rebuilt Forepaugh & Sells Brothers' Shows, the greatest possible comfort, and no expense has been spared to develop this idea to the high standard identified with the good name and fame of its present owners. George Stumpf will be the superintendent of stock, and Frank Wingate will have charge of the ring stock. John ___ is to be superintendent of canvas; "Buggy" Stumpf, superintendent of transportation; Harry Sells, superintendent of properties; Thomas ___, superintendent of lights; Peter Heinz, superintendent of mechanics; Fred Schaefer, superintendent of wardrobe; and John Patterson, superintendent of animals and elephants. Hugh Harrison is to have charge of the side shows, and the culinary department will be in the experienced charge of A. D. Moreland. Edward Shipp will be the equestrian director.
James A. Bailey, of the Barnum & Bailey Circus, has moved into his new palatial home in Mt. Vernon, N.Y. The cold weather has delayed work upon the grounds, which will be completed as soon as possible. After the Barnum & Bailey Show is well started upon the road tour for the summer, Mr. Bailey intends to spend the greater part of his time at his new home.
J. B. Swafford, manager of the Gardner Theatre, Gardner, Mass., has been engaged by Andrew Downie, as general agent of the Downie Shows next season.
Potter and Harris, novelty ring performers, of the Gollmar Bros. Show, have just closed with the ___ Medicine Co., to play dates around Chicago, at smokers and music halls, until the opening of the show in Baraboo, April 30.
Jim and Ruth Rutherford will begin their fourth season with Ringling Bros.' Circus, at Chicago, Ill., April 1.
New York Clipper, March 11, 1905, p. 63. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Sun Bros.' World's Progressive R. R. Shows, now in winter quarters at the spacious Fair Grounds, in Savannah, Ga. Our animals and horses are housed comfortably. All hands were allowed one week of recreation, after which the different workshops were opened up and are now in full blast. All our cars will be thoroughly overhauled and painted. We have secured an entire new layout of canvas, and have contracted for a new line of lithographs and advertising matter. We are adding two cars, several cages and wagons, two camels and other animals, also several horses and ponies, new harness, trappings and wardrobes. Our opening for the coming season is set for about April 1, here in Savannah. Our first railroad season started in Norfolk, Va., May 5, 1904, and ended Jan. 27, 1905, at Fort White, Fla., in a wreck, when four cars and several wagons were badly smashed. We had only one more stand to make, as we were to close at Jasper, Fla., Jan. 26. The season proved entirely satisfactory. Pete Sun, general agent, is now on an Eastern and Northern tour, on special business for the coming season. Manager Geo. Sun will remain in Savannah, superintending every detail in the reorganizing of the show. Ben Bowman will have charge of the side show, family theatre and black tent. He promises one of the biggest and best shows ever connected with any tented exhibition. Bowman and McLaughlin will manage all privileges. The following people have signed for the coming season: the Arthur Chapin Troupe of aerialists, four in number, in a return casting act; the Great Hill Family, six in number, society acrobats; Hardell, Cidello and Richards, triple horizontal bars; Lamberto, in a high novelty wire act; John Miller, the flexible marvel; Billy Reid, principal clown; Walter Ashburn will handle our troupe of trained ponies and horses; Ed. Kane will introduce the rope walking mule; Millie Ashburn and her high school and menage horse; our elephants our at school daily learning new stunts and promise to be on of the feature acts of our opening, and our big lion act will be a feature. The concert programme will include Geo. Sun Jr., seven years old, in a pony menage act, besides his two pony act. We are negotiating with riders and other feature acts, beside two foreign novelites with whom we expect to close at an early date. Eddie Lamont, musical act, has signed, also Leon Stanford, and the following musicians: Harvey Raymond, Robert Faust, Ike Schermer, W. O. Mack, Fred Fairford, Emile J. Anclain, Louis G. Bates, Sylvester Johnson, E. W. Pease, Harry Knight, Jerome V. Potter, Hayden Illingworth and Raymond ___. Executive staff: Sun Bros., Geo. and Pete, equal owners; Geo. Sun, manager; Pete Sun, general agent; J. L. Lamberto, treasurer and lightning ticket seller; O. R. Steuer, book keeper; Ben Bowman, manager side show and privileges; J. C. Cherry, general foreman; Chas. Cooper, superintendent of canvas; Pete Moran, superintendent of properties; L. B. Holtz, trainmaster; Sam Kaufman, superintendent of lights; Chas. Myers, superintendent of baggage stock; Wm. Randolph, charge of ring and pony stock; John Parker, superintendent of "Hotel De Sun"; Jack Benson, superintendent of wardrobe; Albert Moore will continue to act as boss bill poster, and Sherwell Rice, Harry Nelson, Al. Carroll, Milton Baker, Chas. Kelly and others have signed to join the advance. The Stinson Family (ladies' band and orchestera) has signed as band No. 2, to play for the Family Theatre; also Agnes, mind reader, and Nena Delmato, with her den of monster snakes. Henry Emgard will make second openings and hold down one of the ticket boxes. C. S. Clark has signed with us as local contractor for the coming season, and Henry Sylvester, "king of advertisers," has also signed contracts. Chas. T. Ogden, manager and owner of the James Shelby Shows, paid us a visit on Feb. 20, and reports a successful season for his show.
James Duval, contortionist, has signed with the John Robinson Ten Big Shows for next season, as a French clown.
Al. G. Millens has signed with the Campbell Bros.' Shows for the season of 1905, as principal talking and singing clown. He is wintering at Milwaukee, Wis.
Wallace Cooke will have charge of the sideshow with the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows next season. An unusually strong array of talent has been secured for this department, including the following: Herr Schimdt's wrestling bears, Jennie Lowery, Circassian snake charmer; Prof. Cooke's Punch and magic; Kino, wild man, and Wheeler's group of performing lions, handled by Capt. Jack braley.
Notes from De Alva's Little Old Fashioned Shows. We will open our season at Owen Sound, Can., about May 6, and will play all three night and week stands. The show will be managed by Edward Thardo, and we look forward to a prosperous season. This show will be the most complete of small shows, as Dr. De Alva is sparing neither time or money. A number of first clas acts have already been secured.
Frank Milton and the Long Sisters have closed with the "A Ragged Hero," Co., and will open for season with Floto's Great Show. Mr. Milton as principal clown.
J. F. Brennan has signed with Geo. W. Hall's Circus and Menagerie, as general agent. Mr. Brennan has been connected with the circus and dramatic business for several years. Last season he piloted the Whiteley Shows, to big business, he informs us. He writes: "I feel sure I can bring in the money for Mr. Hall, as he has a first class show in every respect." The show opens about May 6, at Evansville, Wis., and will tour Wisconsin, Minnesota and Dakota.
Orville and Frank arrived in this city from the City of Mexico Feb. 25, where they had been playing an extended engagement with the Circus Orrin. They have signed with the Barnum & Bailey Show for the coming season.
Al. E. Holman, of Al. and Mamie Holman, was a Clipper caller last week, and reports having met with success while touring Cuba with the Great Henri French Show. They returned to sail for Paris with the J. T. McCaddon Show.
Bonheur Bros.' Show notes. Although this show closed its most successful season in Texas, the many sudden changes of temperature did not have a very salutary effect on some of our troupers. While showing in the winter, under canvas, the men were occasionally exposed to some severe "Northers." During one of these Howard Bonheur, the manager, was seized with neuralgia in the face, and W. C. Fields, a brother-in-law of the manger, took home with him a case of the malarial grip that showed its ill effects after a long jump by train, from the hot climate of the South, to the colder latitude of Western Oklahoma, where the weather has been the coldest ever known in the vicinity of the show quarters, at Carmen, and A. G. Bonheur contracted a dangerous lung trouble, by exposure, since returning home. They say that a man is either a fool or a stranger who predicts weather in Texas. It was interesting to know that while the tents of the Golden Mascot Show were being folded into the cars for shipment home, the weather at the shipping point was dry and warm, just suited to the work in hand. Barefoot youngsters romped in play while the troupers worked. At the same time it was pouring down rain at Temple, and the streets there were bogged down with mud. All wagon shows would do well to keep out of the black mud country in Texas when it rains. The sudden transition from Summer like climate and scenes of evergreen live oak forests to a land enveloped in several inches of snow, was rather severe on the men and stock. We are safely housed at the comfortable winter quarters, where everything is hustle and work to get ready for the coming season. This is the longest and most successful season the show has ever known.
The following people have signed with the Al. Steele Big Show: J. A. Kelly, balloonist; Ammon Musselman, clown; the Billings, aerialists; Sam and Sadie Docks' troupe of performing ponies, dogs and donkeys, and Ambrose Hackenberry, contortionist. Joe Warnick is superintending the construction of several new parade wagons. Manager L. Steele purchased a four horse team of roans for the plank wagon.
Manager Fred Falkner, of the Drake & Falkner Greatest United Railroad Shows, make a trip to Pierre, South Dakota, Feb. 21, to purchase a monster buffalo for the menagerie of the above show for the coming season.
The Siegrist-Silbon Troupe arrived last week, after closing with the Circus Schumann, at Vienna, Austria. They will be with the Barnum & Bailey Circus the coming season.
Col. Frank Robertson, for the past two seasons manager of the Payton Sisters' Co., closed Feb. 4, to accept a position with the Floto Shows.
Levolo, wire 'cyclist, has signed with the John Robinson 10 Big Shows for the coming season.
Notes from the winter quarters of C. H. Knight's Twenty-five Cent Show. Everything is in fine shape for the opening, which will be about May 1. The following people have signed with the show: Dan Rice, with his educated ponies, hogs and mule; Prof. Hineman and troupe of dogs and goats; the McMahons, aerialists; Harry Lewis, balancing traps, clown and concert, and Harry Demarlo, contortionist. This show will carry twenty head of horses and thirty people.
Frank A. Robbins, Fred Beckman and Bros. Coleman and Goodwin were a busy quartette this week, arranging the details for the summer campaign of the Frank A. Robbins Circus.
J. A. Bailey announces that March __ is the date for opening the circus season in Madison Square Garden with the Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth, one week later than previous years. He also announces that no other circus will exhibit in New York this year, and that, among a large number of new and novel attractions, several are positively astounding, and are bound to satisfy the most exacting. The whole show is projected and will be carried out on new and improved lines from ring to roof. For the first time in forty years or more the show will embrace California in its itinerary being practically its debut west of Colorado.
New York Clipper, March 18, 1905, p. 107. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The following people have signed for the coming season with the Andrew Downie New Big Shows: Lunford Davis and his colored band, singers, dancers and cake walkers for the side show; W. H. Quintet, general superintendent; A. Frank Brechlin, in charge of canvas; Harry Lausch, in charge of the advance brigade; Jack Kent, in charge of stock; Georbe Millson, assistant in care of stock. Gregory's Banda Rossa, Frank Gregory, manager, will be a feature of the big show, and the Great De ___, on the unsupported ladder and comedy wire act. Fletcher Smith does not go with the advance this season.
The Great Inman writes: "I have signed contracts with the Frank A. Robbins Big Shows for the coming summer season. My wife, known as Henreitta L. Roberts, will be featured in the concert in her ___ musical specialty and soft shoe dancing. I will introduce my own original novelty contortionist on an elephant's back, which will also be one of the features of the Robbins Shows."
Frank Milton and the Long Sisters . . . join the Great Floto Shows, at Denver. Mr. Milton has charge of several clown numbers originated by himself, in which all the clowns take part: "The Bull Fight," the burlesque football game and "Buster Brown and Tige."
Evangeline Metcalf reports meeting with success in the Northwest in her singing and dancing act. She is playing two weeks at the Theatre Comique, Spokane, Wash., and writes that she and her husband, George Metcalf Jr., have signed with the Geo. W. Hall Jr. United Wagon Shows for the coming season. Mr. Metcalf will have all the privileges with the show and Mrs. Metcalf will do her singing and dancing act.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle & Welsh Bros.' Combined Shows. This tented organization is positively the only one that can truthfully say they have two complete winter quarters in full operation at the same time. Homer, N.Y., Mr. Sautelle's old quarters, is the present scene of great activity. The animal house, blacksmith shop, wagon shop, harness shop, wood working department and paint shop are working night and day, with two crews of men, who have but one thought, one determination, and that is to be ready for the opening, which occurs at Lancaster, Pa., April __. At this point all the new cages, baggage wagons and wardrobe are being made. In the animal house and ring barn, trainers are busy, preparing their different charges for the summer performance. Mr. Sautelle is at this end of the enterprise, looking after the new firm's interest, assisted by Jas. A. Morrow. At Lancaster, Pa., the winter quarters of the Welsh Bros.' Show, and business offices of the new colsolidated shows a like scene of general activity prevails. Office clerks, mechanics, car builders, wagon repairers, blacksmiths and painters are at work getting the property that is stored there in proper condition for the road. John Welsh is in command there, assisted by Clinton Newton. Eighty head of stock has already been purchased, and Mr. Sautelle is at present in Lancaster, Mo., looking for sixty head more. The parade, with all dapple gray horses, new harness, new cages, fine tableau, deep carved and gilded band wagons, chariots and calliope, sparkling gorgeous wardrobe, and a bevy of beautiful young women, cow boys and girls, Cossacks, Indians, Romans, Japs, Russians, and a general carnival of all nations will create great interest.
Notes from the Great Floto Shows. The show train leaves Denver March 19 for Fort Worth, Tex., where the season begins 22. After Dallas, Waco, Galveston, Houston, Austin and San Antonia, only six stands will be made to California. Our agents are now scattered from Dallas, Tex., to Victoria, B.C. No enterprise of this class will go out better equipped, for it has Pullman train service throughout, from the advance cars to the last train, and everything is brand new in every department. The growth of the Floto Show has occasioned much comment and praise from visiting showmen. Frank Tammen is general manager; Joseph H. Huston, general agent; Mell A. ___, contracting agent; Arthur ___, manager of advance car; "Punch" Wheeler, press agent; Arthur ___, manager of outside attractions; James Ross, concert manager; Harry Evans, treasurer; John Carroll, equestrian director; Chris ___, superintendent of menagerie; Ed. Jenks, boss hostler; "Silvers" Holland, boss canvas man; W. Clements, property man; Dr. Rowland Curtis, surgeon; Prof. John Andrews, lecturer; John Kent, master of transportation, and Sig. Zierke, bandmaster, with fifty musicians. The circus programme includes: the Elliot Troupe, aerialists . . . William De Van and Lizzie Rooney, principal riders . . . Campbell and Johnson, comedy bicycle act . . . Marvelous Chester . . . also performing elephants, two comic mule riding acts and twenty clowns . . . and annex brass band of twelve men.
Rays from Sun Bros.' Shows at Savannah, Ga. The weather is delightful. On March _ there was a baby camel born. Will O'Dale, principal bareback and jockey rider, has arrived from New York City and is breaking in a new principal horse. John Miller, after a twelve months' tour in South America, has signed for the season of 1905. Mr. Miller is a marvel in his line. . . . Alexander Thomas, in a marvelous strong cat, will be one of the features. Pete Sun, general agent, is still in the West on special business. Everything is progressing finely at winter quarters.
Martin Milligan has signed with Frank Lemon to manage advance car No. 2, with the Great Pan-American Shows, for the coming season.
Capt. David Latlip, high diver, is in his twenty-third week with the Miles orton Show. He is re-engaged for the season of 1905.
The Three Rio Bros. (George, Al. and Adolph) have been engaged for two weeks at the new Hippodrome in New York City . . .
The Five St. Leons, who go with the Walter L. Main Show the coming season, are at winter quarters, Lancaster, Pa., training the horses for their riding act.
New York Clipper, April 1, 1905, p. 151. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Prof. John H. Andrews, magician,, writes that he is not the John H. Andrews recently announced as lecturer with the Floto Show. Prof. Andrews signed some time ago with the Frank A. Robbins Shows.
Fred A. Hodgson, manager of the Orrin Circus, arrives in New York April 1. He will make his headquarters in the Clipper Building.
Recent engagements for McCaddon's European Circus are: the Holmes Bros., comedy bars; Joe D. Cramer, boneless wonder; Carl Mayo, clown, late of Ringling Bros. and the Wallace Shows.
Ed. C. Walton, of the Walton Bros., closed a successful season with Canada Frank's R. R. Shows, Jan. 26, at Horatio, Ark., and is resting in his home in ___, Kan. They have signed with Canada Frank's Show for the coming season, to do wire, traps and juggling.
John Reynolds, tuba and double bass, and J. L. Roll, trap drummer, have closed with the Jones Model Plate Shows, and joined Parks' Big Stock Co., under canvas, for the coming season.
Martin G. Milligan will not be in advance of the Pan-American Shows, but has signed with Mr. Lemen, to manage advance car No. 2, with Lemen Bros.' World's Best Shows, coming season.
H. P. Hill, who has been with the Gentry Shows the past six seasons, is now managing the new Broadway Theatre, East St. Louis. He will fill in the summer months as special opposition agent with a big tented organization.
The Clarkonians, who have been with the Orrin Circus, in Mexico, all winter, arrived in New York last week. They will open at the Hippodrome.
Al. G. Barnes writes: "My animals are having a successful engagement touring Cuba, with Circo Pubillones."
J. T. McCaddon's Circus sailed for Antwerp, Belgium, March 25, to open in that city about April 15.
Lola (Topsy) Mitchell and partners have signed for the coming season with Col. Ellsworth, for W. P. Hall Show, to do their comedy athletic and contortion act, under the name of Three Mitchell Sisters.
D. S. Ward signed for the coming season with Frank Lemon, to manage advance car No. 1 with the Pan-American Circus, making my third season with this show.
Jim and Lottie Rutherford closed their vaudeville season at the Gaiety, Springfield, Ill., March 26, after fourteen successful weeks on the Crystal, Lyric and Mid-West circuits. They open their fourth season with Ringling Bros. at the Coliseum, Chicago, April 5.
Notes from Selby's One Ring Show. Two weeks more, and the Selby Comedy Co. will close its season, and Arthur Selby, the manager, will at once go to our winter quarters at Claremont, N.Y., to overhaul the outfit for the coming summer season. A new big top has been ordered and will be delivered April 16. The new top will be seventy feet with forty foot middle. C. A. Clymer will have charge of the privileges; Wm. Roach, the side show; Arthur Snow, the gypsy camp; Bob Adolphus will be principal clown, and has charge of the concert; Jack Daly will have the advance, and among the performers engaged are: Big show - Mlle. Edna, juggling and revolving globe; the Gregons, bars and traps; Rheolk trick 'cyclist; Roach and Castleman, acrobats; Ed. Harvie, contortionist, and Billy Maber, Bob Adolphus and Will West, clown comiques. Side show: Prof. Harry Stevens, Punch and magic; Ajax Armstrong, strong man; Millie ___, the modern witch, and Prof. Wilber's cornet band. The show opens April 29, and will tour New England.
Following are the people engaged with the Rippel Show, season of 1905: Al. Raymond, clown; Lorello, foot juggler; Eddie Harmon, traps; Chas. Rippel, contortions and perch; Jack Rippel, clown; Miss Leon, slack wire and loops; Frank Ruffner, Punch and vaulter; King Ryan, juggler; Bob Rippel, acrobat; Will Taylor, advance; Dave Gordon, boss hostler; Mart Nolan, boss canvas man; Pearl Hilton, property man; Prof. Armsby, musical act; Mrs. Kate Ludlum, chef; Prof. Seidlitz, with a band of seven pieces.
Chas. P. Watson, sailed for Antwerp, March 25, with the McCaddon Show.
W. M. Vance, formerly the advertising agent of the Orpheum Theatre, St. Joseph, Mo., joined the advance force of the Ringling Bros.' Circus at Chicago, March __.
Geo. Mantell has closed a thirty weeks' engagement in advance of Hi Henry's Minstrels, and has signed for the coming season with the Hargreaves Circus.
Opening of the Floto Shows. After a first run of nearly a thousand miles, the Floto Shows opened at Fort Worth, Tex., March 22, to a good afternoon attendance and capacity at night. For a first show day all went splendidly, and the beautiful parade this season - over ten city blocks in length - was pronounced the swellest display ever seen there. The circus programme ran as well as if the show had been out a season. The side show this year, under Arthur Hill's management, is the biggest and best this show has had. . . . The show is now on its way to California for its annual coast tour. Meanwhile it will go over into old Mexico for several stands. The Rose-Edith ballet is proving an immense attraction, given on a strong centre elevated stage, where toe dancing and many marvelous, likewise strenuous, results can be accomplished, much to the joy of the average circus auditors. The music is also a feature.
Lowery Bros.' Show will open its season at Shenandoah, Pa., the latter part of April.
Ed. M. Jackson is again doing the local contracting with the Gentry Bros.' No. 1 Show. This is Mr. Jackson's fourth year with Gentry Bros.
New York Clipper, April 8, 1905, p. 179. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The J. T. McCaddon International Shows embarked for France last week. The circus is estimated as a sixty-seven car show. It will travel through the same territory that the Buffalo Bill Show will cover into Switzerland, and the performances will begin in Paris as soon as the show can be properly put on.
Fred A. Hodgson, manger of Orrin Bros.' Ciecus arrived in New York April 1 for a weeks' stay. Before leaving Mexico, Mr. Hodgson had confered upon him the thirty third degree, F. and A. M. by the Supreme Council of Mexico.
Frank A. Robbins notes. Frank Gregory and his famous Banda Rossa of forty solo musicians will furnish the music the coming season. J. C. Bands, for several seasons press agent with the Sautelle Show, and who has been connected with one of ___ Raymond's attractions the past winter, will be legal adviser and adjuster. William Carr has closed a successful season of thirty weeks in advance of the Vernon Stock Co., and has signed for the coming season with the Hargreaves Circus.
Frank Lewis, tramp slack wire act, has signed with the Lowery Bros.' R. R. Shows for the coming tenting season, to do his act in the big show, and his lightning crayon drawing in the concert. He will have new and original tricks on the swinging wire.
Notes from La Mont Bros.' Circus and Menagerie. We have just finished five new tableau wagons, hand carved and gold leafed, with lots of help in the shops and at our winter quarters on the Salem, Ill. fair grounds. We have nearly everything ready to open there April 29. Mr. La Mont is negotiating with New York dealers for a consignment of animals, including an elephant. This show has grown from three wagons to its present size, being now on its fifth season. Illinois, Indiana and Ohio are included in its itinerary. Harry De Mello, general agent, with four bill posters, will pilot the show. The following people have signed for this season: Shorty McIntyre, boss canvas with twelve assistants; Ed. Howard, boss hostler, and eight grooms; Will Hane, in charge of fifty-two head of stock; ?. Atchison, boss animal man; Jumbo Stevens, boss property man, and two assistants; DickDenten, in charge of cook tent, with six men; Bob Atterbury and Will Howe, in charge of all privileges. Performers: Irwin Family, three in number; Earl and Evans, acrobats; Delano Family, four in number; Ora ___, De Vaugh and Burke, clowns; Japanese troupe, five in number. Side shows: Elmer Porterfield and wife . . . Prof. and Mrs. Gillette and Prof. D. M. Buckley's military band of eleven men will furnish the music. Jessie ___, John Mann, J. Graves, Geo. W. Williams, Ollie Jones, Homer Evans, ?. Carroll, C. E. Wright, W. A. Allen and H. W. St. Clair. Prof. Charles Randolph is still putting his ponies, mules, goats and monkeys through their daily routine, and they are nearly perfection now.
Floto Show notes. ?. Franklin has the candy stands this season, his third year. Ed. Franklin and Clarence George are on outside stands; Harvey Campbell, Denny Curtis and Al. Johnson on the seats; Clarence Stokes and Fred De Carlo are introducing a new version of aerial bars.
C. S. Primrose closed with the "Uncle Si Haskins" Co., Saturday, March 18, and joined Gentry Bros.' Shows, March __, as general agent of the No. 1 show. This is Mr. Primrose's ninth season as general agent for Gentry Bros.
Wm. Gilman, manager of the Grand Opera House, Rochester, will be a special agent with Campbell Bros.' Shows the coming season. Mr. Gilman will close at Rochester, Pa., and pay a visit to his home.
William P. Hall Show notes. The Arcaris, knife throwers, have signed contracts for the circus season of 1905. Harry Clark, our principal clown, promises many surprises in the way of clown numbers for the season of 1905. Richard E. Louis, the caterer of the show, has just received from Toledo, O., two of the most complete cook house wagons ever perfected. Everything in the culinary department will be brand new and the best that money can buy. It is the universal opinion of all who have seen the wardrobes of Elsie St. John and Kittie Kruger, equestriennes, that they are the most elaborate ever seen. J. Francis Kane will be the principal orator with the show. While the William P. Hall Show is a new amusement enterprise, the names of the executive staff are a guarantee of an efficient management in the different departments. Owen Doud, for many years secretary of the Walter L. Main Circus, will have charge of the journalistic department of the show. . . .
Chas. A. Kosler closed his season ahead of Labadie's "Faust" Co., at Indianapolis, and is laying off at Toledo, previous to opening with the Great W. P. Hall Shows.
Notes from the Bonheur Bros.' Show. Work at the enlarged and well equipped winter quarters of the Golden Mascot Shows is unceasingly carried on. From early morn until late at night the building and creating of new features continues with very little intermission. A new ticket wagon is building and a pony exhibition wagon, to be used for transporting the troupe of smallest Shetlands, and made to be instantly converted into an exhibition wagon for showing to the public the smallest horse ever seen. Dollie, the dam, gave birth to Frolic, which is only ten inches high, is perfectly formed, and as lively as a cricket. It takes the prize for size and symetrical beauty. Another feature of the show will be J. R. Bonheur's Radium Palace, equipped with ingenious devices for producing beautiful effects, and by its wonderful ligh will present the most astonishing dissolving views of the Russo-Japanese War. Mr. Bonheur has submitted to the patent office plans and photographs of this Radium Palace, and has applied for a patent covering his invention. The troupe of animals trained for a barn yard circus, consists of a cow only three feet high, a goat, a dog, a poney to match the little cow in weight; three trained geese and two comical roosters (a bantam and a shanghai), educated to perform a clown turn, will be a funny feature. . . . Will Reinham and Frank C. Keith, the golden voiced singer, has signed. Nearly all the working force has signed and are coming in.
New York Clipper, April 15, 1905, p. 205. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
List of performers who were with the Pubillones Shows: Antonio Pubillones, manager; Segundo Garcientti and family, acrobats . . . Todd Judge Family, acrobats; the Clarkonians . . . Miss Beatrice, contortionist; Dr. Clarke, "loop the gap" . . . Jack Cousins, equestrian; ___ Lewis, trapeze; Flexmore, clown . . . Tom Eck and Miss Florence, "loop the loop"; Mons. Jolly and ___, French dancers . . . C. Eggers, "loop the gap" . . . the Laurent Family . . . Barnes Family, Delgado and wife . . . Romero, clown; Pancho and Modesto . . . The circus reports a very satisfactory season in Havana and through the island of Cuba with the three companies.
Artie Adair, after closing twelve weeks' engagement with Shipps Indoor Circus, at Kansas City, as on of the special features, has played three weeks of fairs. Week of March 27 was the final week, being a return date at the Crystal Theatre, Milwaukee, Wis. He has signed with Al. Ringling for the Forepaugh-Sells Circus.
Orville and Frank are at the Madison Square Garden with the Barnum & Bailey Show.
Ringling Brothers' World's Greatest Shows, during the present season, which began with the Chicago Coliseum engagement, April 8, will have the following executive heads: James J. Brady, general press agent; Sam McCracken, general contracting agent; Kerry Meagher, treasurer; Thomas Buckley, auditor; Chas. A. White, newspaper contracting agent; Dexter Fellowes, press representative; W. O. Tarkington, contracting agent; W. H. Horton and M. F. Nagle, special agents; Chas. Davis, adjuster; Chas. Rayn, superintendent of detectives and Lou Graham, manager of museum annex.
The Forepaugh-Sells Show will have the folowing executive heads during the present season: Henry Ringling, manager; Roy Feltus, assistant to Henry Ringling; Frank O'Donnell, newspaper contracting agent; Jay Rial, week ahead newspaper representative; Geo. __, general contracting agent; Frank Morgan, contracting agent; Chas. Wilson, general excursion agent.
Car managers for the Forepaugh-Sells Show will include: Al. Osborn, with car No. 1; Chas. Atkins, with car No. 2; and John Harper, with car No. 3. With the Ringling Show: Frank Estes will be manager of car No. 1; Tom Daly, with car No. 2; and Geo. Goodheart, with car No. 3.
The Fitzgerald Big Show will open its season May 8.
Notes from J. J. Dashington's Big City Show. Everything at winter quarters is progressing in fine shape, and we will have one of the finest popular priced tented exhibitions on the road this season, numbering twenty people and band and orchestra. Everything brand new from stake to centre pole. Major John A. Mollory, late of Price's Floating Theatre, goes ahead, with plenty of special paper, and we all look forward to a long and prosperous season, which opens May 10, at Moline, Ill.
Roster of Geo. S. Ely's United Shows and Trained Animal Exhibition: Geo. S. Ely, sole proprietor and manager; Mrs. K. S. Ely, treasurer and charge of ticket wagon; Lee Howard, equestrian director. Performers: headed by the Howard Family, seven in number; Gertie De Mont, flying trapeze and Spanish web; ___ Howard, flying rings and ladder perch; the Great Wilber Bros., horizontal bars and and brother act; Mme. Wealty, Roman standing races and menage act; Prof. Grace and his troupe of dogs, ponies and goats; the Howards, Mexican ladder trapeze; the Hamburg Bros., acrobats and gymnasts; the Howard Sisters, double trapeze and contortionists; Prof. Zadell and his performing steers, four in number . . . Blacky Jones, boss canvas man, with twelve men; Ben Swift, goss hostler, with eighteen men. Our big top is 70ft., with two 30ft. middles; dressing tent, a __ft. round top; horse tent, 30x60; cook tent ___. Will carry fifty head of stock and eighteen wagons. Season opens April 20, at Paducah, Ky.
Prof. D. C. Smith began his fifth season with Norris & Rowe's Circus, in San Francisco, Cal., March 4, at Mechanics' Pavilion, with the following musicians: Tommy Fallos, Jean ___, Harry ___, George Donovan, Joe Von Wyle . . . Earl Ewing, Ed. Ellis, Joseph Meeham and Geo. Seeley.
William P. Hall Shows left Geneva, O., for Lancaster, April _.
Roster of the advance of the Gentry Bros. No. 1 Show: C. S. Primrose, general agent and traffic manager, ninth season; Eddie Jack, local contractor; George Cable, manager of car No. 1 . . .
Billy Reid writes: "I've been taking a few weeks' rest at my father's winter home, near Columbia, S.C. I have signed with Sun Bros.' Show, as principal clown and concert manager, this making my third season with this aggregation.
Harry Van Auken, late of Van Auken and ___, has joined hands with Frank Ellet, and they will work the Great Ellet Troupe this season, in their novelty aerial bar act.
Frank Williamson and Gilbert open in Brooklyn with the Barnum & Bailey Show.
Dr. J. E. Fitzgerald, press agent and orator, has signed with Gollmar Bros.' Shows, making his fourteenth season with that organization.
New York Clipper, April 22, 1905, pp. 230, 233. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Snyder Bros. & Dowker Circus and Wild West will open at Roodhouse, Ill., April 22.
Geo. Irving, manager of the side show with the Gollmar Bros. Greatest American Shows, has engaged the following attractions for the colossal annex: ___, the wonderful three legged girl (her first appearance with any show); German Rose, lilliputian musician; Prof. Frank, with his miniature broom factory; Miss Albright, whittler; Major ___, midget magician; Harry Harrison, human ostrich; Mlle. Zoe, snake charmer; Miss Clove, tallest girl on earth; Madam La Belle, the mind reader; Prof. Hayes' merry manikins; Ben Horner's vaudeville singing band; Wm. Crawford and Harry Harrison, orators, and the Roberts, impalement act. This ought to bring them. Sixteen double deck banners will be used for the front.
Capt. Tarble informs us that he and his famous Aurora Zouaves have been re-engaged for the coming season by the new management of the Forepaugh-Sells Bros. Shows, making their fourth consecutive sason as a special feature of that aggregation. As has been the annual custom, we will this season present an entirely new act, introducing the most intricate and difficult gun and foot movements ever performed by any Zouave company, all executed with the rapid precision that his characteristic of the Aurora Zouaves alone. Our equipment will be the finest ever carried by any similar organization, consisting of newly silver plated guns, a new and higher wall than they have ever used before, and first class wardrobe throughout.
Ernest R. Wallace, who has been the two past seasons with the John Robinson Circus, and had signed with the Forepaugh-Sells Bros. Shows for the coming season, fell on a sidewalk at his home in Fulton, N.Y., and fractured his leg, and he will be unable to fill his engagements the coming season.
J. A. Bailey announces: "The street parades will be omitted this year. The fact that the show is now too big to give street processions, the knowledge that the limit of special cars railroads are willing to handle, has been reached, and the time required to put up the apparatus utilized in the "Dip of Death," "Quadruple Aerial Paradox" and other sensational features, have all been factors in forcing this conclusion. The circus parade is no longer popular, on account of late arrivals of the show, inclement weather, unavoidable long waits and the consequent delay of the afternoon performance."
The W. P. Hall Show will open the season at Lancaster, Mo., May _.
___ Eldridge will be principal clown with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows, making his second season with this aggregation.
Gorman and Murphy open in Cincinnati April 24, with the John Robinson Ten Big Shows, as comedy acrobats.
The Burger Family, instrumentalists, have signed for the season of 1905, with Hagenbeck's Trained Animal Show, as a special feature. The show opens April 24, in St. Louis.
The Beall Family (three in number) have been re-engaged with the John Robinson Ten Big Shows for this season, to do their heavy weight lifting and cannon ball act. Hattie Beall is to do her singing and dancing specialties in the concert, this making their second season with that show.
Frank A. Robbins' Circus will open at Passaic, N.J., April 27.
Notes from Pawnee Bill's Wild West and Great Far East Co. "The air ship," which is to be a feature of the show, arrived by express April __. Prof. Carl Myers, the inventor and maker, received it and superintended the unpacking of the different ___. The parts were immediately assembled, the balloon was inflated, the the first ascension was a perfect success against a fair wind, the operator successfully bringing the ship to the starting point after making a complete circle over the town of Carnegie, Pa. The shape of the gas bag was designed, in part, by Pawnee Bill himself, and Carl Myers recognized the merit of having a balloon of this shape for transporting purposes, has patented it. To transport and inflate this feature requires two especially constructed cars, one of iron, with an oval top, which exactly fits the shape of the gas bag, and the other car is equipped with a complete hydrogen gas making plant with a capacity of five hundred cubic feet an hour. The inflating of the balloon is an item of expense not originally figured on, but as the cost of each inflation is over $___, it was decided to build a car to carry it inflated. The painting for the air ship has arrived and is pronounced by all to be the most striking and beautiful advertising matter ever published. The work in all departments is about completed, and, if necessary, the show could open on a day's notice. Everything has been newly painted. The parade will be strengthened by the addition of several new tableau wagons and new wardrobe, and we will have, beyond a question, the most novel street parade ever seen.
?. Stanley Lewis, advertising manager of Frank A. Robbins, was a Clipper caller 17, having arrived from San Francisco, where he left the Norris & Rowe Show doing a big business with a strong show.
Floto Show notes. After a ten days' engagement in Texas, the Floto Show is now in California. Business has been large since the opening. In Old Mexico, Governor ___, of Sonora, and his staff, attended both exhibitions at ___, and General Torres and a military party visited at ___. It was the first appearance over there of a regular circus menagerie, and many inhabitants saw camels and other animals for the first time. . . .
Walter Kidder, late of the Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Show, does not go out the coming season, but will do the billing in Brooklyn for one of the Coney Island attractions.
Lee Bros.' Circus will open its season June __, at Pawtucket, R.I., greatly enlarged, and will add a side show this season. Owen Murray will be general agent; Wm. Forbes, treasurer . . . the Aerial Shaws, and the following array of clowns: Arthur Ray, William ___, Peter Shaw and Charlie Bereaux. The winter quarters are now at Pawtucket, R.I.
New York Clipper, April 29, 1905, p. 255. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Hunt's Vaudeville Circus. Everything is on the move at our winter quarters. Painters, decorators and wood workers are putting the finishing touches on everything in their line, and our opening day will find this show as bright as a new milled dollar. The roster to date is: J. & C. T. Hunt, proprietors and managers; J. Hunt, charge of main entrance; Abe Little, advance agent, with two bill posters; Mrs. C. T. Hunt, charge of candy stands. Performers engaged are: Carman, hoop roller and club juggling; McIntyre, hand balancer and revolving ladder; De Von and Gail, carrying perch, Roman rings and single trapeze; Bros. La Noy, double trapeze; Chet, Ostrander, sailor perch and "Rube"; Peter ___, contortionist; Chas. T. Hunt, slack wire and juggler; Hunt's four trained ponies, and the riding dog, Dewey; Alex Mominee, singing and knockabout clown. Concert: ___, serpentine dancer; Bertha Hunt, serio comic; Tom Malone, Irish comedian; Eddie McIntyre, buck and wing dancer; Alex. Mominee, wench specialty; Mrs. C. T. Hunt, illustrated songs. Side show: Prof. Lednar's magic and Punch; Cora Van Tassel, ladder of swords; Mme. Zedmar's Hindoo magic; Annette's den of snakes, and our feature, Geo. Grooves, half man half horse. Musicians: W. C. Badger, leader; Geo. Murray, Albert Melloy, A. Stein, Harry Wittwer, Tom Carter, Adam Gillespie and James English. Tom Reed, charge of canvas, with seven men; "Blinker" Smith, hoss hostler, with five men; Scotty, boss props. Our big top is 70x100, dressing tent a twenty-four round top, horse tent 30x50; cook tent, 18x25; side show, 30x60. We have twenty-two head of horses and ponies and twelve wagons. Season opens at Kingston, N.Y., about May 1.
McCaddon's Circus opened April 17, at Dunkirque, France. Hassan Ben Ali's twelve ___ Arabs are one of the features.
Hassan Ben Ali has placed his big troupe of ___ Arabs with the Hargreaves Show.
Notes from the James Shelby Show. We are having fine weather through Southern Alabama and Florida, and playing to a splendid business. Twelve weeks out from wintner quarters and not a losing week yet to darken our season of 1905.
Gollmar Bros.' Shows will open their season at Baraboo, Wis., April 29. The rapid growth of the show has been remarkable and gratifying to its proprietors. Durning the Fall and Winter several new buildings have been erected, namely: a hotel for the accommodation of forty working men, a spacious animal house, 50x80 feet; a repository, 50x100, for storing cages, band wagons, chariots and tableau wagons; a barn for the accommodation of one hundred and fifty horses; an office and press room, 30x50, and a camel and elephant house, 40x70. These buildings were constructed in addition to the following buildings: ring barns, canavas house, grain barns, paint, carpenter and blacksmith shops, and large storage rooms. The buildings are lighted by electricity, in fact, are modern throughout. The quarters are situated along the banks of the beautiful Baraboo River. During the winter the show has been enlarged and completely renovated in every department - massive dens take the place of last season's cages, cyclopic wagons, emblematic of great nations of today and of historical and mythological character; beautiful and elaborate trappings and wardrobe will greatly add to the free street demonstration. All new waterproof tents will be used. Three rings, one stage and a hippodrome will be employed for the presentation of the performances. The show received a large consignment of animals April _, including elephants, dromedaries and a white Siberian camel. Five more cars have been added. The Gollmar Bros. Show has advanced from a wagon show to its present position, with every prospect of further advancement. The old established rule still prevails of not allowing objectionable features of any description.
Banjo Billy Clark just closed a successful engagement with H. D. Rucker's Co., and will open with Sells & Downs' Shows April __, making his third season with Sells & Downs.
Notes from the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows. Greatly enlarged and improved, this show will open its season Tuesday, May 2. This will be a fifteen wagon show, with one of the swellest outfits on the road. Among the people engaged are: the Russell Bros., acrobats; Josephine, aerialist; the Great Hammond, hoop roller; ___, clown; Harry La Ray, novelty bar act; Belmont's comedy donkeys and Prof. Wheeler's tourpe of dogs and ponies. Wallace Cooke will have charge of the annex, and Prof. C. F. Brown's band of ten musicians will furnish the music. Leon Yeaton will have charge of the advance forces, with F. J. Frink, as special agent, in charge of the second brigade and opposition work.
The Barnum & Bailey Circus opened its Brooklyn engagement April 24. The lighting of the tents is exceptionally good, being provided by the Bolte & Weyer System, which has also been installed with many other tent shows.
Edward Gavin, expansionist and strong man, has joined the F. S. Brown United Shows.
Jess Brown joined Miles Orton's Shows April _, to manage the museum department.
A baby boy was born to Mr. and Mrs. Fred A. Hodgson April 23, at Collingwood, Ont., Can.
New York Clipper, May 6, 1905, pp. 275, 279. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Lowery Bros. Show. We are playing to S. R. O. business. We opened our season in Gilberton, Pa., April 26, and the big top was packed to the ring ropes. Chas. O'Brien, the world famous clown, just returned from a nine months' tour of Great Britain, joined 24, at the winter quarters. This will make his sixth season with the Lowery Bros. The Magunerlys, the great trapeze performers, joined __, and were greeting at the opening with great applause. Mr. Lowery has engaged at great expense, Richard Donvard and his famous acting ponies and dogs, also John Bachman, the juggler. Wm. J. Brown has charge of the canvas, with ten assistatants. "Fatty" Steem, boss razor back, joined us at Golberton, Pa., with eight assistants. Will C. Sites joined at Gilberton, as general agent and railroad contractor, with four bill posters. M. Cushman and wife joined to make balloon ascensions. A double balloon ascension is done when we have opposition. Prof. Carmbella's band of ten pieces furnishes music. Levoda joined us as contortionist. Prospects for the season are great.
Notes from Kennedy Bros.' Indian Congress and Wild West Show. We will open the season June 15, at Paragon Park (Nantasket Beach), Boston. The show has been greatly enlarged and has many new features. W. H. Kennedy, with headquartesr at Perry, O. T., is making big preparations to have one of the best shows of its kind. Arrangements have been made for three tribes of genuine Indians (Cheyenne, ___, and Sioux), twenty-five in number, for the Indian village, and they will appear as in their Western life. These, with fifteen cowboys and women riders from various ranches of the Southwest, and two car loads of horses, bucking bronchos, longhorn steers and buffaloes, will be transported from Perry, O. T., direct to Boston the latter part of May.
Notes from the Drake & Falkner United R. R. Shows. We opened at Elizabeth, N.J., April 29, in the rain, and while the afternoon show was only fair, we packed them in at night, in spite of the weather, filling up to the ring bank. The show went with unusual smoothness, and was voted a decided improvement in many ways over the general run of such enterprises. A large crowd of well wishers stayed to see our beautiful orange and gold train leave on its first journey.
Ned ___ has signed with Hargreave's Circus for the summer, with his magic turn and merry mannikens in the side show. He also assists Mr. Morrisey in running the inside of the side show.
The William Todt Famous Shows is reorganizing and overhauling its outfit and cars and getting in first class shape for the summer tour, which opens at Union Ridge, Md., near Baltimore, and will cover one of Mr. Todt's old routes through Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey. Though a small show, the outfit is second to none, and is a big one among the smaller fry. Hereafter Mr. Todt will use the name of Todd, dropping the "t" and using an extra "d". The show has made a Southern tour this witner, extending to Tampa, Fla., and it is good to be back north.
Opening notes of the Sig. Sautelle & Welsh Bros.' Combined Shows. With ideal weather prevailing, the 1905 season of the new combine of shows was ushered in at McGrann's Park, Lancaster, Pa., on Easter Monday, April 24. It was a most auspicious event in every particular. The premier parade was given at 10 a.m. sharp, and marched throught the principal streets of Lancaster, the paraders working in a clock-like manner, and all passed off without a single accident to mar the occasion. . . . The opening performance was given in the afternoon, starting promptly at two o'clock. Two rings and an elevated stage are used to exploit the acts. The "big show" tent was completely filled, and the programmer made an emphatic hit. . . . The attendance at the night performance was of the record-breaking variety, hundreds of late commers being unable to gain admission. Business during the three days following continued big, the night houses being invariably large. The side shows and Oriental theatres, under the management of James A. Morrow, with their gorgeous and ornate appearance, and the beautiful pictorial embellishments used in the "front," were packed night and day. Mr. Morrow has gathered together a galaxy of high class vaudeville and specialty talent that is seldom, if ever, offered with tented shows. . . . The "big show" band consists of twenty first class musicians, under the guidance of Prof. L. J. Chamberlain. The band more than "made good" at the opening performance. This organization is a strong adjunct to the show. The following is the roster of the company: John T. Welsh, manager; Mrs. Sig. Sautelle, treasurer; C. E. Shreiner, secretary and auditor; Harry Allen, legal adjuster; V. O. Woodward, manager of car No. 1; Chas. Reid, manager of car No. 2; Philip Harris, contracting agent; Jack Cousins, equestrian director; James A. Morrow, manager of side shows and concert; Clinton Newton, press representative; Frank Hobart, twenty-four hour agent; Geo. A. Welsh, purchasing agent; Dan Travers and Wm. Gable, chief ticket takers; Girard Leon, official advertiser; Art Millard, annex ticket taker; Geo. Provenchy, reserved seat ticket agent; Jean Woodruff, master mechanic; Dr. Kingman, veterinary surgeon; Charles O'Brien, superintendent of canvas, with Frank Smith, first assistant, and Walter Baxter, second assistant; Michael McCloskey, superintendent of stock; Joseph McCloskey, assistant superintendent of stock; Jack Rhettenbock, superintendent of menagerie; Harry Bowman, superintendent of props; William Burke, superintendent of lights; R. J. Thomas, train master; Misses O'Brien and Hawman, wardrobe mistresses; Frank Gratian, Geo. Boyd and Fred Greive, chefs; Harry Frazier, chief porter, and E. E. Bennett, chief decorator. Big show performers: Mons. Hubert Cooke Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Jack Cousins, Three Melvin Bros., Three Flying Snyders, the Avoletts, Great Ostrando, Madame Yucca, Wm. Tessier, Belle Clark, Mannie Forepaugh, Nellie Braddon, the Bertos, Wm. Connors, Geo. Colby, Paul Klotz, Max Hugo, Sheren and Walsh, Harry E. Miller, Frank J. Hurley, Geo. Fernandez and Tom Smith. Concert acts: Smith and Leslie, Mamie Lee, Paul Klotz, Annie Mansfield, Frank Hurley, Carroll Sisters and Madame Yucca. Side show attractions: Millie Eolis, Marguerite Stells, Trixie Willis, Nora Gibson, Sidonia Von Neil, Hannah Duffy, Mamie Lee, La Belle Asia, La Belle ___, Great Hornman, John Nalon, P. A. Dutch, Eddie Thibault, Joe Thibault, J. C. Ryan, C. Felgar, Chas. Smith, Chas. ___ and "Sirkus," and Prof. Robbins freeman's Original Georgia Colored Band and orchestra. The entire equipment of the show is new, built under the personal supervision of Mr. Sautelle and is the best that he has ever handled. The railway outfit consists of the following: seven 60ft. flat cars, six 60ft. stock cars, Five 60ft. Pullman sleepers, and two 50ft. advance advertising cars, a total of twenty cars. For the main performance the following amount of canvas: 140ft. round top, with three 50ft. middle pieces;, dressing room canvs, 60ft. top, with one 40ft. middle piece; side show 70ft. top, with three 40ft. middle pieces; menagerie, 80ft. top, with three 40ft. middle pieces, and besides these, there are stable, dining, blacksmith and working tents, all of modern construction. . . .
Notes from Brown's United Shows. Burt K. Wilber has signed as contractor and general manager in advance, with ten bill posters, seven horses, four wagons comprising the brigade. They will announce the coming of the show with an unlimited supply of the best circus paper money can buy. The opening date is at Sandy Creek, N.Y., May 6.
Rose Edyth and her ballet troupe opened last week with the Orrin Circus, in Mexico.
Notes from John Robinson's Combined Shows. This, Cincinnati's great show, representing the brains and prowess of three generations of circus kings, pitched its tents at South Norwood, O., April 24, and there inaugurated another season. John F. Robinson is director general, and John G. Robinson, general manager for the show. Jo. E. Ricards, as press agent, is the generalissimo of publicity. For three days the shows drew great crowds in that Cincinnati suburb, moved to Cumminsville for two days, and then went to Columbia for one. The opening date was later than usual, and the weather much better than the circus folks have usually encountered, for Robinson's always opens at home. In compliment to John G. Robinson, Syrian Temple, Nobles of Mystic Shrine, paid their annual visit to the show on the opening night. The parade was a brilliant pageant that gave gilded promises of the worth of the show, which opened with the Biblical spectacle of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. Frederick Fisher is equestrian director, and Prof. Park Prentis musical director of the military band. During the performance Harry Green, Garry Vanderbilt, Chas. Sassaria, Sidney Shepard, George Matz, Larry Judge, Baby Reed, J. A. Story, Arthur Sherman, James Duval, Frank La Vell, George Le Mar, Two Alvin Bros., O. W. Emmett, Stanley Marvin, R. Le Valo, Joe Coyle, Two Millman Bros., J. A. Henry, J. Gorman and T. Murphy were the circulating clowns. After the spectacle John Robinson's herd of educated elephants were put through their paces by J. J. Buckley. Performances took place simultaneously in three rings and the stage. James Dutton, Wm. De Mott and William Astor were the first out in equestrian acts. In "Display No. 4" Effie Dutton, on the swinging wire; Millman Brothers, in hand balancing; Howard Beall, heavy weights; R. Le Vola, slack wire; the La Mont Troupe, on Roman ladders; Rouen and wife, rope act; May Peasley, on breakaway ladder; Daniels, Bogsby and Murid, Roman ladders; Geneva Morgan, on slender wire, and Barney La Mont, in a hand balancing act, filled in dazzingly. The jockey acts were provided by Gertie Davis, Larry Judge, Sidney Rink and Bert AMayo. The heavy weight lifting quartet included Warren Trains, Howard Beall, Robert Peaslye and Frank La Rose. The saddle horse display gave Etta Jordan, Karl Nyegaard, ___ and Ida ___ the opportunity to shine. Prof. Winston's seals were a diversion, followed by Captain Hugh Thompson and his companies of cavalry troops from Fort Riley, Kans. A round of high air sensations was presented by Mary Rhodes, Fred Rouen, Killian Sisters, Gordon Orton, the Two Albine Bros., Miss Irene and Carrie O'Dell. Then came the equestriennes, Effie Dutton, Miss Edna and Millie Van. Gorman and Murpy, and Newton Brothers were new faces in acrobatic feats. Captain Thompson's Leavenworth Zouaves, in a musical drill, was the next novelty. Rose Mareton, Rouden and Leget, and Frances La Mont appeared in aerial sensations. The Great Du Barry, in his act of jumping the gap on a bicycle, provided a thrill or two. The usual hippodrome races furnished a lively finale, and among the riders in these fixed events were Orrin La Salle, Joe Horner, F. Morrass, Tom ___, Kitty Morgan, Sadie Judge, Fannie Vounge, Jessie Lane, Frank Jones and Claud Orton. . . .
Chas. Hammond has signed with the Campbell Bros. as press and special agent for the summer opening with the the show at Fairbury, Neb., April 29.
Accounts of a blow down have reached us from the Hargreaves Show, which occurred at Chester, Pa., Saturday, April 21. A dress rehearsal was being held, preparatory to the opening of the regular season on the following day, when a violent storm of wind and rain suddenly came up, which swept down the tents. The animal tent, however, was but slightly injured. The catastrophe will not interfere with the route of the show, as manager Hargreaves immediately began to repair damages, obtain new canvas, etc., and has demonstrated that the disaster did not alter his future plans in the least.
Jacobs and Sardel have canceled their part time and joined the Gollmar Bros.' Circus.
Roster of the Lemon Bros. advance car No. 1: D. S. Ward, manager; A. D. Pyne, charge of paper; Sparks and McGinnis, lithograph agents; R. F. Norris, opposition agent. Bill posters: John Mulvhill, Clyde Skinner, E. N. Smith, Chas. ___, H. Winfrey, Harry Cady, Lewis Dody, H. C. Spangler and C. R. Gordon.
John R. Nalon, "the Musical Wonder," joined the Sig. Sautelle-Welsh Bros.' Circus, at Lancaster, Pa., April 24.
The Two Martelles (Harry and Emma) have returned East, after an absence of two years, on account of a "new comer" in the family. They go with the Great Wallace Show this season.
New York Clipper, May 20, 1905, p. 335. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the John Robinson Circus. Joseph Rickards is the press agent with this show; and has made many friends. Rickards succeeds "Punch" Wheeler in this capacity, the latter being in California with the Floto Shows. At the afternoon performance at Corry, Pa., 10, a serious accident was narrowly averted when Du Barry made his daring ride and leaped the gap. As he completed the jump a tire came off the wheel, throwing him, but no injuries resulted. The feature of the side show this season is the one armed wonder, in charge of the weighing machine. He is invariably correct, and is always surrounded by many onlookers.
Frank Milton and the Long Sisters opened at Ft. Worth, Tex., with the Great Floto Show, now playing California.
Joe Riley is with the Andrew Downie Circus, doing his sword swallowing act in the side show, also his Irish specialty and rapid picture drawing act in the concert. He reports success, also that the show is doing a very nice business, despite the past recent cold and rainy weather.
Ernest Albright, calliope player, is with the Gentry Bros.' Show No. 1, this being his fourth season with the Gentry Shows as calliopist and charge of reserved seat tickets.
Goodo, slack wire and balancing trapeze performer, has signed with Bert Silver's New Show, and reports success.
Notes from the Great Mansfield's Shows. We opened the season May 6, at Tidioute, Pa., to big business. Thomas Alton joined as agent, with two assistants, to take charge of the advance.
Notes from Lemon Bros.' World's Best Shows. We opened the season at Sailsbury, Mo., April 29, and after eight stands in the States are touring Ontario, with business uniformly good. The roster included: Performers - Ed. Baldwin, equestrian director; May Meeker, aerialist and contortionist; Anna Cook, principal somersault riding act; Smi Leta Bros., triple bars; Three Pulaski Bros., novelty acrobats; Coopero, leaping the chasm; Stubblefield Trio, triple trapeze; ___, acrobats; Smi Leta Sisters, aerialists and contortionists; the femals zouaves, Cook Sisters, four horse riding acts, and the following troupe of fun makers - Billy Milligan, George Stubblefield, Ed. Dilger, Henry Williams, Dick Marley, John Davenport, Joe Robie and ___ Zelleno. Leaps, tumbling and classic contests on the hippodrome track constitute a worthy programme. Roster of the annex: Bert Gordon, orator; Harry Walker, Felix Borden, Ray P. Hale and John Fleury, door talkers; Joe Lucasie, Albino violinist; the Hawaiian Glee Club, Zelleno, magician; Mabel Filmore, Circassian beauty; Mr. P. J. Smith, snake enchantress; Ada Smi Leta, the physical culture girl; "Tootsie" Jones, Oriental dancer, and Millie Carlotta, the optic. Zelleno, the mystic, spent Sunday, May 7, in Detroit, Mich., being entertained by the Society of Detroit Magicians, an organization of young gentlemen who make it their duty to entertain every magician who visites Detroit.
Notes from Gollmar Bros.' Show. We opened April 9 in Baraboo, Wis., scoring another red letter day. While a trifle chilly, the day was bright, and visitors found their way into the city at an early hour. Long before the parade the principal streets were thronged, and those who witnessed the display were well repaid. . . . The programme, which is an excellent one, included: Emery Stiles, Wm. Saxon and Jos. Johnson, with clever trained animals; Jacobs and ___, barrel jumping; Jos. La Rex, aerial contortionist; Potter and Harris, on the Roman rings; the great Petit Family, Kitty Weaver, on the swaying wire; the Famous Luverns, on the tight wire; Harry Bray, juggling on the swaying wire; A. Augustad, equestrian exhibition; Nelson Sisters, on the double trapeze; Carrie Lowande, globe rolling; Capt. Sharp, in a novel driving act; Mrs. Bray and her dogs; Chas. Sheeney, fun spinning; Wm. Marks, equestrian act; D. Weaver, balancing on slender bar and acrobatic manoeuvres; the Marvelous Maxwell, Nelson Troupe, aerialists; Vancello, the human enigma; Rooney, bare back novelty; La Wande, the humorous rider, and various hippodrome acts.
Notes from the Bert Silver Circus. We opened at our headquarters, Standish, Mich., May _, to the largest business ever done in this city by any show, the tent being packed from ring bank to wall. Everything went very smoothly, and gave the best of satisfaction. Our route will be entirely in Michigan. The roster includes: the Boughtons (Will, Amy and little Helen Goodo), slack wire and balancing; Lydell and Clark, double traps and perch; Leota, contortion; Madame Cyre's dogs, with high diving dog, Rex; Billy Boughton, with his trick pony, Pansy, and riding dog, Bruno; Vern Ives, singing comedian; the Silver Family of eight, musicians, singers, dancers and jugglers; the juvenile band and orchestra, under the leadership of Laura Silver; Master Earl and Dick, juggling and light and heavy balancing. We carry twenty-eight people, seventeen head of horses, seven new wagons and cars. Ed. Cross is in advance, with two assistants.
Notes from the Castello & Graves Show. This company is one week old today, and we are in the very happiest of moods. Business has been great, considering the bad weather. At Marathon, N.Y., we showed to two packed houses, and also at Cincinnatus. We have forty-two head of horses, and sixty-five people on the payroll. Harry Chapman joined May 12, to take charge of the side show and concert, bringing six people with him.
The band with the Sells & Downs' Shows, under the foremanship of C. H. Tinney, is composed of twenty-five thorough musicians, and is receiving favorable comments daily on the rendition of standard and popular musical selections.
Al. G. Barnes informs us that his animals have arrived from Cuba, and will go this season with the New Parker Amusement Co. Mr. Barnes has been sick at West Baden Springs with a severe attack of stomach trouble. The animals are all well after their trip South.
New York Clipper, June 3, 1905, p. 380. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Lowery Bros.' No. 2 Railroad Shows. At Olyphant we were entertained by the Eagles. The big show started with Prof. John A. Dorward's trained pony, Sultan, the smallest pony in the world; act 2 was presented by Ed. and Lottie McGinley, on the flying trapeze; act 3 was presented to the people by that funny clown, Poggy O'Brien, assisted by John A. Dorward; act 4 was Prof. Dorward's troupe of trained dogs; for act 5, Frank Lewis, the king of the wire, pleased greatly; act 6 was Prof. Brown's troupe of trained goats, which brought down the house; act 7, John Bachman, comedy club juggler, entertained the vast crowd; act 8, we had E. H. and Lottie McGinley, on the swinging ladder, the act is positively the best dressed act before the American public. Act 9 introduced Prof. John A. Howard, with his talking pony, Tim; this pony is one of the best educated animals ever carried by a one ring circus. No. 10 act is furnished by Chas. (Poggy) O'Brien, assisted by Happy Hooligan and his famous riding mules. Prof. Allen and his band of then pieces furnish the music. Geo. B. Lowery is manager; Will C. Sites, general agent, with five billposters ahead of the show. Everyone is well and happy.
The Bros. Masand are with Brown's United Shows and are scoring quite a hit. They will sail for Europe after the tenting season is over. William De Lano, in a juggling and novelty balancing act, is very successful, his concert act being featured. The Great Lynch is featured with the big show.
Notes from the Sig. Sautelle & Welsh Bros.' Combined Shows. Continued excellent business has been the rule. The Pennsylvania territory is in fine condition, the people are plentifully supplied with money, and in consequence all good shows are being heavily patronized. The towns of Sunbury, Milton, Williamsport, Lock Haven and Tyrone gave us big audiences. Tom Smith and Lillian Leslie are new arrivals, and are meeting with much success in the "after show" programme. At Lock Haven, Pa., May 24, after the evening performance, the aerie of Eagles entertained the forty members of the "circus birds" at a banquet and reception. All of the members of the managerial staff, including Mr. Sautelle, John T. Welsh, Harry Allen and James A. Morrow, attended. Chamberlain's band furnished the music, while many of the performers entertained with vaudeville. A sumptuous banquet was served, with covers laid for two hundred and fifty people. The principal speakers were: Mr. Sautelle, Judge Mansfield, of Lock Haven, and his honor, the mayor of Lock Haven. It was a most enjoyable night throughout. The "birds" of the troupe "flew" about 1 a.m., after declaring Lock Haven Aerie the best and most liberal entertainers it has been their good fortune to meet. After the matinee performance at Tyrone, Pa., on May 25, nearly all of the people connected with the show journeyed to the Tyrone cemetery and held memorial services in honor of the dead of the Walter L. Main Circus, which was wrecked near Tyrone twelve years ago. Harry Allen, legal adviser of the show, offered a most touching prayer, and James A. Morrow made an appropriate address for the occasion. All of the graves were banked with beautiful flowers, while the circus band furnished music. Nearly five thousand Tyrone people were present at the ceremonies. Recent visitors to our exhibition have been members of the Ringling, Barnum & Bailey, Pawnee Bill and Washburn & De Alma Shows.
Notes from Crane's New Model Shows. We started April 28 from winter quarters, at Saginaw, and with rain most of the time, have had good business. We have ten wagons and a sixty, with twenty foot middle pieces tent and top. We are touring Southern Michigan, as the Northern part of Michigan roads are too bad to travel over in comfort. So we pick our roads, and do the business. We have twelve people, and do our advance work with an eight horse power automobile. Our roster includes: Ben Craner, Mrs. Mayme Craner, Master Russell Craner, Maxine Craner, Helen Whalen, Nellie Whalen, Ed. Jaynes, John Elbinger, Frank Willette, George Owen, Ralph Camber and Rudolph Kubick. We have Blanche, the talking horse, and she makes a hit every night.
The John Robinson Shows stopped at the Big ___ on the Pennyslvania R. R. May 21, to decorate the spot where memebers of the Walter L. Main Show lost their lives. Large quantities of flowers were strewn near the spot in the mountains, and Rev. Sheak, the minister with the circus, pronounced a eulogy. The affair occurred at two o'clock in the morning.
The Peerless St. Julian reports success with the Pawnee Bill Great Wild West.
W. S. McCoy, who for the past seventeen years has been with the Forepaugh-Sells Circus, sends words that he has been lying ill with rheumatism at his home in Richmond, Va., since Feb. 7. He is still confined to his bed.
Chas. P. Watson, of the McCaddon Show, writes from France, under date of May 17, as follows: "The show has been out nearly four weeks and weather has been cold and rainy most of the time. Blanche Hilliard left the show for the States May 12. Miss Kumeca, of the Matsoda Japs, died May 12, after a week's illness, at Dunkirk, France. Her remains were cremated, and will be sent to Japan. The Potter Family are doing finely. Twice a day they do a triple somersault-half twister. We are doing one day stands for the rest of the month. In spite of the bad weather the show is doing a nice business.
The Colemans, Anthony and May, are with the Cook-Barretts Shows, doing bag punching, a wire act and handling snakes. Business, they write, is good.
New York Clipper, June 10, 1905, pp. 404, 406. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Jackson Family of bicyclists continue as one of the big features with the Ringling Bros.' Circus.
W. C. Fleming, who closed with the Barnum & Bailey Show at Lebanon, Pa., on account of illness, is much improved, and will be at business in a week or so.
Clyde and Lottie Rialdo, in their acrobatics and lady clown act, with the Lucky Bill Show, report meeting with success, and are now in their twelfth week.
Notes from Andrew Downie's Monster Shows (Andrew Downie, sole owner; Mrs. Downie, treasurer; Albert Rutherford, business manager). We opened at Medina, N.Y., April 29, to capacity business, and in spite of rain and cold weather business has been at the top notch at every stand. Decoration Day at Wallcot, N.Y., people were turned away at both performances. Oswego was another banner day, and at Palmyra and Newark we sat them on the grass at both shows. The performance is giving the best of satisfaction, its size is a surprise to showmen as well as natives, consisting of one hundred and nine head of stock, and one hundred and thirty-two people. The big top is 110ft. round top, with two 50ft. middle pieces. The side show is an 80ft. round top. The parade, nearly a mile in length, consisting of three bands, tableaux wagons, mounted people, three open dens and over eighty horses and ponies, with all new plush wardrobe, and is pronounced by every one the finest dispaly ever seen with a wagon show. Mr. Downie is arranging for the purchase of an elephant and two camels, which will reach us in a few days. The side show, under the management of Thos. L. Finn, is getting its share of patronage and giving satisfaction. Mr. Downie has every reason to look for a long and prosperous season.
Weekly News Budget of the Sig. Sautelle & Welsh Bros.' Combined Shows. The "Big Union" is trouping in the productive coke and bituminous coal section of the Keystone State this week, and will remain in that district for a fortnight. The past week was spent in Barnesboro, Patton, Ebersburg, Latrobe, Scottdale and Mount Pleasant, all of which proved to be crack-a-jack towns, fine weather and immense business ruling. Memorial Day was spent at Patton, and three performances were given in the "big show" department. Through the kindness of Messrs. Sautelle and Welsh, Chamberlain's band furnished the music for the Decoration Day exercises given by the Patton G. A. R. Post. Mr. Sautelle, who is a prominent G. A. R. man, assisted at the ceremonies. Arthur G. Snyder, formerly the manager of Ferguson's Theatre, Shenandoah, Pa., joined the forces as twenty-four hour agent, May 31. W. G. Kohler (the circus man's friend), of Johnstown, Pa., and Grant Luce the genial, hustling general agent of Washburn & De Alma's Shows, were special guests of the management during the past week.
Mackay's European Circus, under the management of Andrew Mackay, the present manager of the Rose Melville "Sis Hopkins" Co., will commence its regular season at Detroit, Mich., June 26.
Farmer Jones is the headliner with the Great Wallace Vaudeville Annex.
Notes from Snyder Bros. and Dowker's Wild West Shows. The show is in its fifth week, and the feature is the band under the leadership of Theodore Stout, consisting of sixteen pieces. Roster of the band: Bert Barrow, A. F. Stanlye, Joe Reuter, M. W. Brock, Geo. ___, Earl Trousdale, "Butts" Wm. Morgan, Jim Charley, Geo. Kempshall, Ed. ___, Harold ___, Wm. Brown, Charley Snyder, Verno Stewart, John P. Stowe and Theodore Stout, leader.
Col. W. H Hagan, contract agent, is ahead of the Castello & Graves Old Fashioned One Ring Circus, and has with him A. Friend, lithgrapher; H. Murdock, banners; ___, programmer, and three billposters. The colonel and his brigade paid a visit to the Robinson Show while at Rome, N.Y., and met some of his old time friends.
Notes from E. G. Smith's Dog and Pony Show. The show opened its seventh season April 22, and has been doing a fine business up to the present time. There have been many improvements made in all departments. A troupe of six fine poodles has been added to the dog act, and two thoroughbred ponies to the pony act. The "man in white" is still with the show, doing his feature act once each week. The outfit, as well as the performers, is entirely new.
New York Clipper, June 17, 1905, p. 431. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Andrew Downie's Monster Shows. Andrew Downie, owner; Mrs. Andrew Downie, treasurer; Bert Rutherford, business manager. We are playing to good business everywhere, and the show is leaving a reputation behind it that means good business for seasons to come. We have had no opposition to speak of, and everything is running smoothly. The Rocky Mountain lion was overcome by the heat and died last week. His cage is now filled with two beautiful young striped hyenas. Cameron's sixteen foot boa constrictor is a strong attraction in the museum. We have eighteen people in the dressing room, and present two and three acts in the ring nearly all the time. We have had visits from several professionals the past week, all of whom agree that Mr. Downie has the largest and best equipped outfit they have ever seen for a wagon show. Thos. L. Finn, side show manager.
Roster of the annex with Campbell Bros.' Consolidated R. R. Shows: J. C. O'Brien, manager; Lew Borella, assistant manager and orator; G. Burkhart, lecturer, magic and Punch; Mrs. G. Burkhart, mind reader; Prof. Reed's Tennessee Minstrels; Miss Lulu, snake enchantress; Prof. Alfredo, living marionettes; Zereeta, musical act; Madam Dever, bearded lady; Prince Devollo, fire king; Mons. Karlo, sword swallower; Knoxon Sisters, song and dance; Chief Sebond, Zulu warrior; Regi Pool, impersonator, and a band of nine pieces. ?. Dever, B. Roberts and C. Braynord are ticket sellers.
Notes from La Mont Bros.' Show. The show opened at Salem, Ill., April 29, and encountered rain and bad roads for twenty days, but despite the continuous rain the show never lost a performance, and did a big business. We have had nice weather and good roads since we came into Indiana, and everybody is well and getting along nicely with the show. Our first accident occurred at Ellettsville, Ind., May 30. John Prindle, of Carlyle, Pa., was bitten by a diamond rattlesnake while assisting in transferring the snakes into the snake den. He was able to rejoin the show at Spencer, Ind.
The Garcinetti Family closed a successful season in Cuba, with the Circo Pubillones, Havana, and went to Mexico, to join the Gran Ciro Veinro.
Notes from the Todd Show. The season so far has been very gratifying to Mr. Todd. The performance is of the highest degree of excellence and the band, under the leadership of Chas. H. White, renders excellent musical numbers. The working department, under the supervision of G. W. Cristie, is working in a clock-like manner. The roster is as follows: William Todd, Mrs. William Todd, Harry Todd, Don Dellino and wife . . . Chas. H. White . . . Will Walters, Thos. Graham and Capt. Donaldson, with his English war balloon. Don Deltino has the side show, Lewis Smoker is treasurer, and Harry Todd is general agent, with two bill posters. The season will not close until the last week in December. [Note: this is the re-named Todt show]
Notes from the Great Wm. P. Hall Shows. . . . Our programme includes: the St. Leons, Australian acrobats; Orrin Hollis, famous bare back and somersault rider; Kitty Kruger, equestrienne; the De Nova Family, aerial act; La Belle Leona, four horse rider; Bert Mayo, Burns and Burns, on the slack wire, and the Millettes, including Master Millette, the boy wonder, as a four horse rider. . . . The roster: Wm. P. Hall, sole proprietor; Phil Ellsworth, manager; W. R. Musgat, charge advance; ___ Rice, auditor; Ben Hall, treasurer; Al. G. Gilligham, manager privileges and legal adjuster; ?. J. Parvin Jr., press representative; Tom Fay, boss canvas; Tom King, boss side show canvas; Whitey Lykens, boss hostler; Marks Monroe, boss animal man; Frank McCormack, superintendent lot; Geo. ___, and Will Coxey, superintendent of lights, announcer; Chas. Mitchell, master of transportation; Harry Clark, principal clown; Bert McLain, chief ticket seller, and Prof. Mayo, equestrian director.
The Bartons are with the Sig. Sautelle & Welsh Bros. Shows for the season, and report doing well, also that the show is doing a very good business.
Notes from Lowery Bros.' Big No. 2 Railroad Shows. Business continues to be big. At Stroudsburg, Pa., the big top was packed to the ring ropes, and after the show the entire company was invited to the Eagle rooms, where a repast was served. Members of the company present were: manager Geo. Lowry and wife, agent Will C. Sites and wife, Prof. John A. Howard and wife, Chas. (Poggy) O'Brien, John Bachman, Frank Lewis, Joe Morrison, Prof. Cushman and wife, John Howard, Harry Stout and Prof. Allen's band of ten pieces. This season is the banner year for the Lowery Bros., as business never has been better. Our total roster is forty people, with two cars. Everyone is well and happy.
The Ty-Bell Sisters are with the Great Wallace Shows.
New York Clipper, June 24, 1905, p. 451. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Mountain breezes from the Miles Orton Big Southern Show. The pride of the South is enjoying excellent busines in the mountain districts of North Carolina, the land of the sky, and to see the manner in which we are welcomed by the mountaineers is certainly gratifying to the management. We are in the feudal district of Carolina, the heart of the moonshine country, where the festive gun toter is in evidence to a very marked degree. Notwithstanding our environments, we are yet to record our first unpleasantness. . . . At Concord, N.C., we raised our new tents, which were made by Baker & Lockwood. Practically, the show's paraphernalia is all new. Our big top, an 80ft., with two 40ft. middle pieces; dressing room, 30ft. round top. Myron Orton is now in charge of the advance, and he certainly is doing prodigious work in the interests of the show. The Orton Brothers, Myron and Norman, are the youngest of America's circus owners and managers, as Myron has just reached his majority, and Norman will celebrate his twenty-third birthday July 4. But they are both rapidly developing into worthy successors to their illustrious father, Miles Orton. Mrs. Edward Brennan, of the Musical Brennans, has just returned from Leavenworth, Kan., where she has been on a visit to her mother for the past six weeks. The roster of the show is as follows: Orton Bros., owners and managers; Norman Orton, general manager; Myron Orton, general agent; Mrs. Miles Orton, treasurer; Gus Fairbanks, railroad contractor and legal adjuster; Mrs. Chas. Cooper, stewardess and privileges. Performers, big show: the Orton Children, child gymnasts; the Great Alfton, head balancer; the Peasleys, breakaway ladder and trapeze; Michael Orton, cloud swing; the Great Norman, high bicycle wire; Carrie Adell, single trapeze; Bob Peasley, cannon ball manipulator; Alfred Heintz, novelty slack wire; Petite Iva, equestrienne; Norman Orton, mule hurdle; M'lle Nita, Japanese ladder; La Rose Sisters, double trapeze. Clowns: Ed. Brennan, Ed. Johnson, Alf. Heintz, Bob Peasley and Master Clarence Orton. Band No. 1, Gregori's Banda Rossa, Pasqualla Prosperi, leader, with ten men. Rick Richards, superintendent of canvas. Annex department and Wonderland has Jess Brown as manager; Ed. Brennan and Dave Latlip, ticket sellers. Performers: Capt. David Latlip, high diver; Prof. Pierre ___'s troupe of performing bears; M'lle Gertrude, second sight seeress; Prof. Bruno, magician and illusionist; Madame Rosa, snake enchantress; ___'s Polish band of eight; Dick Rollins, superintendent of canvas. Big show concert: Ed. Brennan, manager; the Musical Brennans, comedy musical act; Ed. Johnson, black face comedian; Ed. Brennan, eccentrique specialty; Prof. Rogalle's wrestling bears, and Maude Brennan, song and dance.
Notes from Lowery Bros.' R. R. Shows No. 2. At Moscow and Goldsboro the big top was packed, and at Stroudsburg, Pa., June 7 and 8, we did nearly $500 of business in the rain. Portland and Port Murray, N.J., were also very good. The roster remains the same except in the advance, which follows: advance car No. 1 - Will C. Sites, contracting and general agent; Dany Percy and Wm. Thomas, bill posters; Sam Long, lithographer and programmer. The show is always billed to a finish and can't help but do the business. Prof. John A. Dorward's talking ponies are still a great drawing card. . . .
Notes from the John Robinson Ten Big Shows Combined. We have been in the rain belt ever since opening, only a few fair, clear days. Despite the inclement weather, the business has been phenomenal. Aimee, the lion queen, was attacked and badly bitten at Vandergrift, Pa. Three lions were born at Clearfield, Pa., and named "Du Bois," "Clearfield" and "Savage," the latter after Clearfield's burgess. The run from Bellefonte, Pa., to Elmira, N.Y., one hundred and ninety miles, was made in six and one-half hours, the fastest ever made by any show train. There were sixty cars, divided into four sections and handled by six locomotives. At Elmira three leopards were born, and named "Hig," after Governor Higgins . . . and "Sloat," after Hon. J. Sloat Fassett, one of New York's congressmen. The latter leopard has since died. We have a baby antelope, the only one ever born in America, and a baby elephant, born in Binghampton, N.Y., and named "Binghampton." On the way from Phillipsburg, Pa., to Bellefonte our train was stopped on the Tyrone Mountain on the spot of Walter L. Main wreck, and there, at 2 a.m., memorial services in remembrance of the dead were held. Two car loads of flowers, one from the John Robinson Shows and the other from the Pennsylvania Railroad, were scattered on the mountain side. Rev. Sheak, our minister, delivered the eulogy. At Canandiagua, N.Y. we were visited by Bob Buchanan, who was boss canvas man from 1861 to 1873. At Geneva we marched to the grave of "Doc" Colvin and held services. The floral pieces that covered the grave were a mass of fragrance and a symbol of everlasting love. A big boa constrictor escaped at Geneva, and has since then been killing horses, cows, pigs and dogs in Northern New York. At Camden, N.Y., G. W. Reed, our general agent in 1846-47, was our guest. A wild boar escaped here and was captured by William Gorer. Mary Rhodes, at Cortland, slipped from her high flying ladder and fell in among the reserved seats. Fortunately no one was sitting where she struck, and, strange to say, she escaped without any broken bones, but was badly bruised. At Ithaca the boys of the Cornell turned out en masse. They gave the college yell in our honor. A terrible storm overtook us at Binghamton. Only a short distance from our tents several houses were unroofed. Our canvas stood the test, which reflects great credit on our boss canvas man, W. H. Curtis, and his assistants. At Oneonta Larry Judge was thrown and miraculously escaped being trampled to death. At Saratoga manager John G. Robinson drove his trained ostrich, "Pierpoint Morgan," to sulky, a mile in ___. Nothing daunts us. All are well and happy. The Ten Big Shows have no complaint to make.
Cap Stewart writes: "I have sold my show to C. O. Taylor, of Columbia City, Ind. The show is now touring Indiana, under the name of Taylor & Frank Show, and making money. Cap Stewart is getting up a new show for 1906. He will have a platform show at the fairs this Fall."
The following is a complete roster of Great Wallace Show side show: W. H. McFarland, manager; Jack Mauley, assistant manager; "Doc" Lano, T. R. McIntire, C. F. Mack, ticket sellers; P. S. Lowerys, minstrels; Grace Clark, electrician; McNolty, ventriloquist; Mazie Lano, trained dogs; Nora Buckley, ladder of swords; ___, fire king; Lady Olga, snake charmer; Jimmy O'Donnell, contortionist; Farmer Jones, trained pigs; Gonzales Sisters, knife throwers; "The Musical Reeds," musical act; Beatrice Leslie and her troupe of Oriental dancers.
Roster of Gollmar Bros.' Shows: Gollmar Bros., sole proprietors; Chas. A. Gollmar, manager; B. F. Gollmar, treasurer; Fred C. Gollmar, advance manager; W. S. Gollmar, equestrian manager; Harry Wertz, assistant equestrian director; F. J. Warrell, adjuster; J. W. Andrews, twenty-four hour man; Dr. J. E. Fitzgerald and Dr. Tryon, press representative and physician; Bert Gollmar, secretary; Al. Jones, boss chandelier man; __ Sharp, calliope player; John White, in charge of front door; George Parson, candy stands; Doc Parkhurst, boss canvas man; Emery Stiles, boss animal man; George Holland, boss hostler W. N. Benson, assistant boss hostler; John Conroy, master of transportation; Ben Hoerm, band master, with the following musicians: George Espey, Wm. Elder, Chas. Bolan, J. S. Johnson, Dell Smith, Maude Roberts, Leon Aldrich, ___, Martin Ross, Tom Roberts, P. B. Harper, E. J. Merchant, Bert Gollmar, H. W. Morse, F. R. Van Dusen, Otto Deming, Bert Griffin, Fred Tryon, ___, Forest Flaners and ___. Performers in big show: Maxwell and Nelson, trapeze aerialists; ___ Family, acrobats; Lansdown Troupe, statuary experts; Wm. Marks, Alex. G. Lawande, Chas. Rooney, Frank Rowe, equestrians; Maxwell, Nelson, Griffiths and Petot, aerial bars; Capt. Sharp, rough rider and menage act; Carrie Fanande, rolling globe expert; Potter and Harris, Roman rings; La Vernes, Roman rings; Otto Weaver, hand balancer . . . Alex. Brisseau, contortionist; Mlle La Rowe, contortionist; Jacobs and Sordell, comedy acrobats; the Brays, jugglers; the Beens, jugglers; the Hafner Sisters, aerialists; Emmy Styles, trained elephants; Maude McCoy, trained elephants; Walter (Rube) Newton, Harry Brandon, Harry Burt, Wm. Makes, Henry Potter, W. M. Sordell, Joe Lapez, F. Marnello, Chas. Rooney, W. S. Griffith, George Weyman, Grover McCabe, Charles Varnello, William Markham, Frank Ketchen, Fred Gardo, clowns; L. R. Spykes, Russell Barr, A. Augstand, Frank Gardo, Wm. Fish, Emma La Sted, Allie La Sted, Walter (Rube) Newton, Grover McCabe, hippodrome riders. Side show people: George Irving, Madam Irving, mind reader; German Rose, in musical act; Harry Harrison, human ostrich; Major Rhinbeck, midget; Maybelle Albeck, jack knife queen; Myrtle Coborn, three legged girl; Mlle. Clio, snake enchantress; Miss Cleveland Gill, giantess; Rhinbeck, magician; William Crawford, Harry Harrison, ticket sellers; Ben Howard, No. 2 band. Concert people: Harry Brandon, Harry Burt, Potter and Harris, Jessie Weaver, Harry Bray, Black and Franks, Smith and La Belle.
Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Show. We are still on the road, making more money this season than any other since we have been out, this being our fifteenth season. We carry fourteen people: Mr. and Mrs. A. F. Tuttle, proprietors and managers; Jessie Troy, contortion and trained dogs; Jack Hunt, business manager; Fred Martin, juggling and balancing; Bro. ___, revolving ladder, single traps, rings and double traps; Dana Murdock, hand balancing and silence and fun; Marvello, acrobat; Prof. Hartzell, pianist; Clint Platt, canvas man, with three assistants. We don't say much of four flush, neither do we carry a band, but we are certainly out of all season, and our advance agent, Harry Germaine, is one of the best in the business.
Farmer Jones informs us that he continues to be the chief attraction in the vaudeville annex to the Great Wallace Show.
Notes from Brown's United Shows. We are playing to good business everywhere, and the show is more than making good, and we are asked to play return dates everywhere. We are in our third week in Rochester, N.Y., and playing to good business. We carry a three pole top, two hundred and fifty fee by one hundred and fifty feet, with a big dressing room and a big two pole side show. The big top seats six thousand people and everybody enjoys good health and the ghost walks regular every Monday. The roster of the show is: F. L. Brown, proprietor and manager; Mrs. F. L. Brown, treasurer; Adolphe Poirier, business manager; the Three Poiriers, feature, in their novelty ring and bar act; the Valdings, double trapeze; Signor Caraba, Spanish flying ring; the Only Marion, equilibrist; Tatto, strong boy; Salvino, aerial performer; Delano, baton juggler and equilibrist; Albertino, sailor perch; John Beno, clown; the Three Bonitos, acrobats; Jos. Devol, slack wire. The concert, under the directionof Mr. Price, is as follows: Smith Bros., comedians and dancers; Miss McAvoy, soubrette; Galvin, exponent of physical culture; the Haermanos, black face comedians; Miss Albertine, singer and dancer, and a Japanese drill by ten young girls. The side show people are: the Two Howards (brother and sister), Prof. Hall, John Bull, illuison; Prof. Helo, magician. The band is composed of twenty-two Russians.
Notes from the Great Wm. P. Hall Shows. Phil Ellsworth, our manager, while showing at Joplin, Mo., June 12, purchased from Edmonds, the horse dealer, the celebrated stallion, "Chiefton," for $2,500. The horse will be shipped to his ranch at ___, Ind., together with other fine horses he has bought while en route this season. The show has been doing a fair business since opening at Lancaster, Mo., May 6, notwithstanding the bad weather and other unpleasant conditions, and is now in Kansas, and the outlook is very bright. Al Gilligham, manager of privileges and our legal adjuster, was tendered a most elaborate banquet by his many friends at Joplin, Mo., at the Keystone Hotel, in the private dining room. . . .
Notes from the Frank A. Robbins Shows. Business continues immense, we being the first show in New England, and naturally getting the "cream." The genial Fred Backman is back from the advance for a few days. Several of the Ringling force visited us at Waltham and Lynn. The menagerie has been enlarged by the arrival of four cages of animals, and decreased by the death of one hyena. One of the elephant men was struck by an engine at Fitchburg and injured to such an extent that he amputation of both legs was necessary. At Waltham manager Robbins' birthday was celebrated by the company in a fitting manner, and the "force" united in presenting him with a gold watch, the presentation speech being made by H. Stanley Lewis.
Millie Savoy, wife of James Savoy, principal clown with Great Wallace Show, was operated on at St. Luke's Hospital, Chicago, Ill., June 6, and is doing well.
Joe La Fleur writes that his sensational ladder and table act continues to be one of the prominent features with the Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Shows.
New York Clipper, July 8, 1905, p. 503. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from E. G. Smith's Colossal Shows. We opened on April 22, and have been showing to turnaway crowds, having only one day's losing business. The show will enlarge on July 8, at Snowshoe, Pa., by adding six head of horses and eight Welsh ponies, one new bandwagon, two tableaux wagons, a cage of monkeys, and a dog cage. The Loganton German band of twelve pieces has been hired for the rest of the season. We will work Western Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Virginia until Dec. 1.
New York Clipper, July 15, 1905, p. 535. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Straight talk from John Robinson's Ten Big Shows. We have encountered rain almost every day, but the elements have no effect whatever on the business, which has been big throughout the East. At Chatham, N.Y., Maggie Bagby fell from a trap and sprained her wrist. "Spitfire," performing lion, died suddently at North Adams, Mass. Doc Waddell, press agent at Pittsfield, Mass., instituted the "Order of the Elephants." Only newspaper men can join. The degree is given by Tom Buckley in the elephants' car, among the "big critters." Sunday, June 18, was passed at Palmer, Mass. Most of the show people ran over to Springfield. White River Junction proved to be the banner stand of the Eastern trip. John Rouen fell from the high trapeze at Montpelier, and crushed his right wrist. He has gone to his home at Fort Wayne, Ind. The Great Du Barry fell three days in succession, doing the "leap the gap," and the last time he was seriously injured. He has returned to his home in Jackson, Mich. At St. Albans, Vt., the rain poured. The afternoon business was big; a night performance was given. In hauling wagons from the muddy lot, two horses broke their legs. One was shot. Marie De Vere, at Burlington, Vt., in swallowing a glass sword, broke the sword off within her. Physicians successfully removed the broken part from her throat. An Apache Indian, "Stout Heart," went crazy and had to be put in irons. Potsdam, N.Y., the home of George Cole, proved a banner date. Mr. Cole was royally welcomed by the citizens there. At Gouverneur, N.Y., Henry Fisher,of Cincinnati, fell asleep under a heavy wagon and was run over and killed. At Carthage, N.Y., a six horse team ran away and smashed the buggy of a farmer named Granger. Harry Martin, an eight horse driver, was caught between a horse and stock car and badly squeezed. Mr. Crone, secretary of the circus, was taken ill with fever and sent to his Cincinnati home.
Notes from Gollmar Bros.' Shows. In spite of the inclement weather, we are enjoying fine business. We have missed three performances only, and we consider ourselves fortunate in that respect. Our business through North and South Dakota, Wisconsin and Minnesota was enormous. . . . James Maxwell, of the Maxwell-Nelson Troupe, is at work again, after a week's lay off, from the effects of an injured shoulder. Ben Homer has added several more clever musicians to his already efficient concert band. Wm. Marks, equestrian, is the "spiritual advisor" of the dressing room, and never misses attending church whenever the opportunity presents itself. Mr. Marks belongs to the Actors' Church Alliance and the Brotherhood of St. Andrews.
Lillian May Coleman is with the Frank A. Robbins Shows this season, as mailing clerk on the No. 2 advance car. Miss Coleman has entire charge of all the advance mailing matter appertaining to the show, including the newspapers.
James De Bolien, of the Three De Bolien Brothers, acrobats, writes that he recently accomplished the feat of flip flap and a double back somersault. They are with the Forepaugh-Sells Brothers' Circus.
George W. Malone is connected with the Oriental department of the Sautelle & Welsh side show.
We are in receipt of The Tent City News, issued by the Frank A. Robbins Show. It contains interesting matter relating to events with the show, and other items of interest to the circus world.
Notes from F. W. Burns & Co.'s Big One Ring Circus. Despite lots of rain, blowdowns, washouts, etc., we are holding our own, and business has been uniformly good. July 4 we showed at Belle Plaine, Minn., to big business. The show numbers fifty people. We have added another dining and sleeping car. Our band, under the leadership of Ed. Culver, is making more than good. Mr. Burns, our manager, had the misfortune to sprain his ankle, but is able to be around. Harry Heims makes things move in the side show, and he certainly knowns how to handle the crowds. We have added ten cages of wild animals in our side show. We are now en route for the Lake Superior country. The show is making money. All are well and happy, and the boys are all busy sending home "blue paper" every Monday.
Notes from De Alva's Little Old Fashioned Shows. We are still on the road, doing a "turn away" business, and will stay out until Oct. 1, when De Alva will take out his College Girls. We have added to our stock three trained donkeys, "Happy Hooligan," "Maude" and ___. The show is under the management of Ed Thardo, as Dr. De Alva has to attend to his other enterprises. Roster: Ed. Thardo, manager; Nellie Thado, treasurer; Jack Wall, in charge of stock; Bill Cotton, boss of canvas; Joe ___, in charge of cook tent. Performers: Ed Thardo, traps, contortion and impalement act; Nellie Thardo, troupe of trained dogs and donkeys; Paul Thardo, boy clown; Chas. Grant, wire walker and juggler; Lew Crawford, acrobat and clown; ___, double traps and carrying perch; Daisy Stevenson, contortion and skipping rope dance. Band led by Stella La ___. Charles Stevenson is in charge of the advance, and the prospects are bright ahead. We have not had a bad town since we opened May 24. All are wel and having a good time around the Canadian lakes. The tents are all water-proofed and present a neat appearance. Dr. De Alva visited us last week, and everybody was glad to see the "old man." "Lucky" De Alva, we call him.
Notes from the Great Wm. P. Hall Shows. We are still doing good business . . . The act put on by the St. Leons Family of acrobats, and which is the feature of the Hall programme, is a great drawing card, and brings forth great applause from the audience. . . . We could give but one show in Richmond, Mo., on the third of the month, owing to high winds and heavy rains, which made it impossible to show to any advantage. The afternoon business, however, was very good, and everyone spoke in complimentary terms of the performance. We spent the Fourth in St. Joseph, Mo., and were very well satisfied with two banner audiences. We were rather late in getting in town, and the parade did not reach the main streets until 12:30. . . . Mr. Hall bought ten carloads of horses this week, and is in the market for as many more at any time. He is certainly there with the "horse sense."
The Sig. Sautelle ajnd Welsh Bros.' Big Combine notes. Our business and reception along the "Erie" path, in New York State, was a blaze of glory, and every stand turned out to be big. Batavia, Le Roy, Corning, Waverly, Port Jervis and Middletown being especially great. . . . The ever glorious "Fourth" was spent at Hancock, with immense business all day. After the matinee nine of Chamberlain's "big show" band men engaged to baseball with Jack Cousin's "picked nine," the result being 5 to 4, with the "saw-dust" boys as the victors. Genial Max Hogo officiated as umpire, and gave good satisfaction. The following clever performers are now presenting the "big show" programme: Hubert Cooke Jr., the Flying Snyders, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Cousins, Madame Yucca, Wm. Connors, Wm. Tessier, ___ and Walsh, Max Hugo, the Bartos, the Aroletts, Belle Clark, Lillian Leslie, Mollie Bertino, the Sisters Bell, Harry E. Miller, Tom Smith, Billy Gleason and Prof. Alex. ___. . . . Chamberlain's Concert band (the all American musical marvels), preceding the regular exhibition, are a feature, and deserve all the good things the press and public bestow upon them daily. . . . The show will invade New Jersey for ten days before commencing the long Southern tour. Late advices from Warwich, __, under date of July 8, state: "A heavy storm today struck the show tents, tore down the menagerie tent, tipped over the animal cages, and allowed the big boa, several monkeys and a leopard to escape. The lion was soon captured the the monkeys and leopard fled to the mountains back of Greenwood Lake. Three thousand people in the tents escaped without harm, except for the wetting by the rain. Solomon Cohen, a candy peddler, belonging to the show, had his back broken, when a wagon fell upon him. - Ed. Clipper.
New York Clipper, July 22, 1905, p. 554. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Floto facts. During Fourth of July week, in Colorado, the Floto Shows did the largest general average daily business in the show's history. On Monday, at Cripple Creek (with Victor to draw from by three excursions)), we had the banner day's attendance since the show's organization. The afternoon show, at Trinidad, July 4, was the record breaker for a matinee. The Floto is now in Kansas, following two other shows, and as the harvesting is finished, the outlook is encouraging for a duplication of the Colorado receipts. The show is in its twentieth week, and has had only ten rainy days so far this season. . . . The State of Wyoming has the strictest cattle and horse quarantine laws of any State. Every circus is compelled to notify the State secretary of the "Bureau of Animal Protection" when and where they propose to enter the State. The Floto Shows fulfilled all requirements, as they entered from Idaho, June 11. After the "ceremonies" Mr. Floto received the following unsolicited letter from the head official: "I want to express my pleasure in seeing the horses of the Floto Circus at the show grounds all fat, without a scratch or galled spot, and especially with the contented, confident and fearless look that only happy, well treated animals have. It must take intelligence as well as interest to keep them in such condition on the road. Incidentally I might say it was as good a circus as I ever saw. Not the biggest, but just as good, and big enough. Yours very truly, E. H. Whitehead, Secretary."
Rays from the Sun Brothers' World's Progressive R. R. Shows. Our season opened in Savannah, Ga., April _. We toured Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, and at present are in Ohio. The show is without a question making a wonderful reputation and many friends at every stand. We are only a nine car show, but to see us on the lot you would think we had twenty cars. Railroad people claim we have the best show cars they have yet handled. Our canvas is all new this year. We are using a new light system, and every sheet of paper used is of a special design. We have ten cages of animals, two elephants, five camels and sixty-five head of horses and ponies. Following is the roster of our show: Sun Brothers, George and Pete, sole owners; George Sun, manager; Pete Sun, general agent; ___ Kraut, assistant manager; J. Lamberto, treasurer; Willie O'Dale, equestrian director; M. S. Titus, band director; Ben Bowman, side show manager; Bowman and McLaughlin, managers of privileges; J. C. Cherry, superintendent; D. M. Ulrich, boss hostler; Wm. Randolph, in charge of ring stock; J. Singleterry, boss property man; L. B. Pratt, train master; Richard Bassett, boss animal man; Johnny Parker, superintendent of dining service; J. H. Carrier, blacksmith; Mike Cary, artist and decorator; Wm. O'Brien, boss chandeliers; S. W. King, assistant boss canvas man. Our feature acts are given by Will O'Dale and George Sun Jr., famous jockey, two horse carrying, two pony and four horse act; Artie Chapin troupe of aerialists; Hill Family, society acrobats; John Miller, contortionist; the Great Lamberts, novelty wire; Hardel Brothers, triple horizontal bars; John W. and Lillian Teets, impalement act; ___, head balancing trapeze; Billy Reid, principal clown; Mille Ashburn and her high school horse "Virginia"; Walter Ashburn and his trained elephants and troupe of ponies, besides a number of other acts. In our concert are: Eddie Lamont, novelty musical act; Chas. La ___, minstrel; Emgard and Reid, black face wench act; the Hill Children (Hurdig and Vrella), triple club act. The side show consists of: the ___ Family Ladies' Band and Orchestra, Nena Delmato and Bowman, mind reading; Agens and her den of monster serpents; Hinmann, magician; Stodare, Punch and Judy and marionettes; Sturnon Sisters, juvenile singers and dancers, and Alex. Thomas, the Grecian Hercules. The advance car has C. S. Clark, local contractor; W. H. Quinnett, car manager; Bert Moore, boss bill poster. The car has fourteen all told. . . .
Wm. J. Irwin writes: "My wife and Kitty May Irwin have sold their interest in a Mexican circus to F. A. Gonzelles, and will rest for a few weeks at St. Louis. Before leaving Mexico my wife rode her bicycle over a wire stretched between an American and an English ship, and was presented with a gold watch."
Rippel Show notes. We are in the tenth week of our seventh season. We have had twenty-one shows for opposition in Michigan, also days of rain, with two stands lost. The show remains the same as when we started. We will strengthen show. . . .
Notes from the Wm. P. Hall Shows. Kitty Kruger is with this show and is receiving great applause for her riding act at ever performance. At Jefferson, Ia., July 16, about a hundred of the folks, accompanied by Gregory's Famous Italian Band, visited the grave of "Yankee" Robinson, who died at that town in 1884. Services were held and a short talk made by Phil Ellsworth on the life of the deceased showman. It is a beautiful plot, covered with grass and flowers, and a large stone was erected thereon by the Ringling and Forepaugh people in ___. We showed to good business at Boone, Ia., where a larger crowd turned out to witness the parade than ever before. At Nevada, Ia., 12, and Belle Plains, 13, good busines was enjoyed and the parade was witnessed by thousands. The side show also did a big business. The roster of the side show includes May Morris, contralot, whose singing is winning great applause. Mr. Hall has been at his Lancaster, Mo. ranch, overseeing the shipping to two thousand head of horses to South Africa. He will return to the show at Dixon, Ill., 17. C. N. Thompson, who recently severed his connection as manager of the Wallace Show, spent __ with Phil Ellsworth and Al. J. Gillingham, at Belle Plains, Ia. Prof. Clark's colored band is more than making good in the side show. Orrin Hollis, bareback somersault rider, is "getting his" applause at every performance.
The Melrose aerial bicycle duo report great success with the Barnum & Bailey Circus.
Notes from Andrew Downie's Monster Circus. Mrs. Downie, treasurer; Bert Rutherford, business manager. Business continues very good, and the show is giving the best of satisfaction. Mr. Downie is arranging for several more acts, and will make this a two ring circus, presenting six riding acts. It requires one hundred and twenty-six head of stock to transport the show, and one hundred and forty names are on the pay roll.
New York Clipper, July 29, 1905, pp. 575, 578. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Selby Shows. We are meeting with success through Northern New York. The roster of the show is as follows: the Valdings, European gymnasts, feature act; Mlle. Edna, aerial trapeze; the Great Delsaro, wonderful sailor perches; the La Dela Brothers, horizontal bars; the Rosells, Roman rings; the Great Leigh, principal clown, assisted by five other clowns are making much fun with the show. A. Selby is proprietor and manager; C. W. Clymer has charge of privileges; Ed. Valding has charge of concet; Lew Valding, equestrian director. The band consists of eleven people. W. Shaw has the advance. The show carries six canvas men and two property boys.
Notes from Cole & Rogers' New Railroad Shows. This show will be enlarged to a ten car show Aug. 9, at Cincinnati, O., and will play the Southwest and the South until Dec. 20. Augustus Jones is now in the West, buying horses, and a lot of new wagons for this show are being built.
The Three Irwins closed with Gonzelli's Circus on the border of Mexico, and will rest in St. Louis for a few weeks.
Notes from the Downies' Show. The show is in its twelfth week out, and is doing the same old time business, and while we have had a few turnaways, there have been occasions when we wished our mammoth tent and seating capacity was even larger. We are in the State of New Jersey, where we made many friends last season, and were praised all along the line. The show is now enlarging to a two ring show . . . The show at the present time has one hundred and sixty-two people on the salary list, and one hundred and ten head of stock, three bands and a parade that would do credit to many of the larger shows. We certainly have had our share of rain, as we were in the rain belt for the first nine weeks out, but business was good in spite of all that. Burt Rutherford has the "elephant fever," and is away on an elephant hunt. Burt is a good hunter, and the entire aggregation is waiting to see him and his elephant put in an appearance. The canvas is a one hundred and ten foot round top, with three fifty feet middle pieces; the side show a seventy foot top, with a forty foot middle piece, three horse tents, two dining tents, cook tent, blacksmith and wagon-maker tent, goes to make up a small city of tents. The roster remains about the same as when we emerged from the winter quarters. The show will go South, and make a long season. The business staff remains the same: Andrew Downie, proprietor and manager; Burt Rutherfrod, business manager; Mrs. Andrew Downie, treasurer; J. B. Swafford, general agent; Henry Sinker, in charge of advanve brigade. The side show is under the able management of James Finn, who knows a thing of two about getting the natives to take a peep at the land of wonders and the strange features he has in this little "country store." The "ghost" is a regular visitor, and the Old Reliable has a welcome second to none.
The Four Webbs are in their fourth week with Ringling Bros.' Circus, and report meeting with success.
Notes from Gollmar Bros.' Big Annex. We are getting all kinds of money this season, and giving the best of satisfaction, being patronized by the best class of people everywhere, the greatest of American show exhibits. The following people are connected with this department: Geo. H. Irving, manager for Gollmar Bros.; Wm. Crawford, John White and Dr. Fitzgerald, orators; Uncle Charley and Wm. Hines, ticket takers, and the feature acts are: Mme. Irving, mind reader; May Albright, lady whittler; German Rose, musical act; Major Rhineback, midget magician; Prof. Frank's broom factory; Mlle. Zor, snake charmer; Prof. George's Punch and Judy Theatre; Three Rab Sisters, Albinos; Miss Cleo, girl giant, and Ben Horner's Singing Band.
The Leigh Brothers, Frank and Bert, have joined the Great Leroy Circus, for the rest of this season.
Notes from the Frank Layo Wagon Show, Frank Layo, manager. We are in our third successful season, playing the New England States. We have had some bad weather, but not such as to interfere with business. Everybody is well and happy, and no change has been made since the opening. The roster: T. A. Brennahan, advance; ___, side show; Louis Laventure, tickets; Henry Bushey, concert; Jerry Laventure, boss canvas man; Tom Le Plante, high diver; Pete Ducele, acrobat; Ducele Bros., bars; ___ and Bush, knockabout clowns, and the Wing Sisters, dancers.
Notes from Lowery Bros.' Shows. Our season opened at Gilberton, Pa., April 26, and we have toured New Jersey, New York and back again in the Keystone State, playing to large business. Our business was large all through our opposition. All are well and happy, and the "man in white" walks every Sunday.
Alex. A. Lowande closed a successful engagement with the Ringling Show July 11. The show has been doing big business.
The Bedini Family are this season, making a big hit with the Ringling Bros.' Circus, in their sensational riding act.
Young Buffalo and Hawkeye Vera, the rifle experts, who have been with the Snyder Bros.' and Dowker's Shows since the opening of the season, are now in Indianapolis, where they will take a short rest before starting their own Wild West show. They have secured three hundred feet of side wall, and will be the main attraction on the county fair grounds.
New York Clipper, August 5, 1905, p. 603. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Andrew Downie's Monster Shows . . . For the past two weeks we have had the first real circus weather of the season, and business has been enormous. Every stant in New Jersey has been a big winner, and several nights it has been almost impossible to hold the throngs that pack into the big top. We had our first blow town at Englewood, July 19, when a tornado struck the big top, and in two minutes everything was flat. It happened very luckily, as the aftern show was just over, and the audience had left. No one was hurt, and the damage was slight. Several new acts have recently been added to the programme, and the show is stronger than ever. F. A. Church has joined as band director, together with several new musicians. The band now numbers fourteen people, and is daily making a big hit with the concert.
Mr. Davey of Davey and Phillipps, writes: "We have signed with the John Robinson Shows for the rest of the season, my wife to work in a big aerial act, and I do ___ on the track, also to do an act in the concert."
The Colorado Grant Show notes. We are playing to packed business in Illinois, and have not had a losing day in the State. Everybody is well, and the show is certainly pleasing. Chas. Kelly, acrobat, joined lately. We cross the Mississippi River at ___, Sept. 10, for the South for the winter. Floyd Trover, assistant manager has the show running finely.
Chas. Ellis, contracting agent for Van Amburg's Show, informs us that he has severed his connection with the above show, and has gone to Michigan to join Lemen Bros.' Show.
Notes from Lemon Bros.' Shows. After eleven weeks in Canada, we are back on Uncle Sam's sod once again. During our trip through Canada we exhibited in the provinces of Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, and went as far East as St. John, N. B., and nearly three hundred miles north of Quebec City, into the Lake St. John region. We made one run of five hundred and fifty-two miles, which was from Pertha, Ont., to McAdam Junction, N. B., and arrived there in good time. On June 17 we showed at Port Colborne, Ont., which is only twenty-four miles from Buffalo, N.Y. Quite a number of the attaches of the show went into Buffalo on Sunday, from Port Colberne, and from Buffalo to see the famous Niagara Falls. The Bonney Family of Scotch bagpipers and Highland dancers joined the show at Port Colburne, Ont., and they are making good with their clever acts in the concert and side show. Since H. R. Cooper left the show at St. John, N. B., on account of illness, Henry Fillmore has been successfully leaping the gap at every performance.
Sig. Sautelle and Welsh Bros.' "Big Combine" notes. The thirteenth week of the current season has been finished and a perusal over the office ledger books is most gratifying to the management. . . . Down in Jersey, along the coast, the show was accorded immense business. At Long Branch and Asbury Park we turned away crowds at each performance. During the sojourn of the show in the vicinity of New York City, many prominent circus and theatrical folk were entertained by Messrs Sautelle and Welsh . . . James A. Morrow's supplementary shows and Oriental theatre continues to do a record-breaking business at every stand. . . . V. O. Woodward, advance car manager, and Sam J. Banks, advance press agent, witnessed the performance at Asbury Park, July 29. Hugh Hoffman, Grant ___, J. Hope, Wm. La Rue Sr., Richrd Hemmings and Gill Robinson, all prominent circus luminaries, were recent visitors. For the next several weeks the show will play some of the select towns of Pennsylvania.
Notes from Frank Holloway's Big United Shows. We are now in our twelfth week, and business is fair, considering the rainy weather we have had to contend with. We have a Chippewa Indian band, consisting of twelve pieces, which is one of the greatest attractions of the show. Our Indian war dance is the leading feature of the concert. Prof. Miller, with his troupe of trained dogs and ponies, gives great satisfaction everywhere. Art Richards, the strong man, is another drawing card. We travel by rail, carry a 70ft. top, with two 30ft. middle pieces. John Smith has charge of canvas, with twelve assistants; Pete Baker, boss property man, with three assistants; Will Jones, boss hostler, has charge of stock; Claude Miller, master of transportation. Show will make a long season in the South and West.
Notes from Lowery Bros.' Show. We recently closed our fourteenth week, and business so far has been the larget in the history of the show. On July __ our winter quarters at Shenandoah, Pa., were destroyed by fire, but the loss was all covered by insurance. Manager Geo. Lowery left at once for home, and is having new buildings erected, to be completed by the time our season closes, which will be on Oct. 14. Prof. John A. Durward recently bought eight goats and shipped them to his home in Reading, Pa. They will be trained next winter and will appear in the show next year.
Frank J. Hurley, the novelty musical performer, of Elizabeth, N.J., has left the Sig. Sautelle & Welsh Bros. R. R. Shows, and joined the Frank A. Robbins Big R. R. Shows, at Farmington, Me., and is meeting with big success.
New York Clipper, August 12, 1905, p. 623. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Wm. ___, contracting agent of Campbell Bros.' Shows, writes: "I will close with this show on or abut Aug. 10, on account of my wife's health. The Campbell Show is playing Nebraska to big business, Al Auburn, Neb., the show did one of the largest day's business in its history."
Harry Earl, general press representative of the Great Wallace Shows, is doing some excellent advance work, and the rest is shown at the box office.
The Le Vards, who joined Hargreave's Circus at Greenport, L.I., June 17, are meeting with success in the concerts, presenting their new talking and singing act.
Geo. Fickett, who recently closed with the Great Leroy Circus, is now with Washburn & D'Alma's Dog and Pony Circus, doing his January mule act and contortion in big show as one of the features.
Notes from the Jas. Shelby New Shows, C. T. Ogden, manager. This show has now been out over twenty-five weeks, doing good, steady business all the while. At present the show is resting at Columbiana, Ala., repairing and fixing up generally. Most of the people who opened with the show three years ago are still with us. All are happy and contented, and looking forward to big business for the rest of the season. We open again, Saturday, Aug. 5, at Wilsonville, Ala.
Floto's facts and fancies. At Fort Leavenworth, so dearly remembered by all tent managers, in the afternoon business was fine, but at night a much larger audience witnessed the show. After the 18th Rigiment "side-walled," manager Tammen gave them all a treat, including the Soldiers' Home so the canvas walls were dropped. As Floto's was the sixth circus here this season, there was method in this proposition, so as to go on record for showing to the "largest crowd." After two turnaway exhibitions at ___, the show closed its Kansas tour, and is now en route through Nebraska and Iowa. To show there is no ill beeling, at Grinnell, Ia., Aug. 14, and almost on the same show grounds, Floto and Pawnee Bill will meet in friendly rivalry for the farmer's dollar. Both shows will adhere to regulation prices, and very likely a big double parade will enthuse and astonish the beholders.
Prof. L. J. Chamberlain's All American Musical Marvels (twenty men) are still one of the stellar attractions with the Sig. Sautelle and Welsh Bros.' big combine of circuses. Mr. Chamberlain writes, saying that his band is in crack-a-jack shape, and is enthusiastically received all along the line. Adolph ___, Glockenspiel soloist, recently joined.
New York Clipper, August 19, 1905, pp. 649, 653. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Show notes. We are just entering upon the fourteenth week of the most successful season ever enjoyed by this aggregation. . . . D. Wheeler, Chas. Karmout and Mr. Rice, of Rice and Elmer, were welcome visitors at Greenwich, N.Y., where we played to a packed house in the afternoon and a turnaway in the evening. Several additions to our ring performance have been made during the past week, which is now one of the best ever seen with a wagon show. We are now among the Adirondack Mountain resorts, of New York State, after which we will turn South for a long season. Already plans are under way for enlarging this show for mext season, which will find the New Modelone of the largest and best wagon shows on the road. The roster at present is: Al. F. Wheeler, manager; Mrs. A. F. Wheeler, treasurer; Geo. Wood, superintendent; Leon Yeaton, general agent; F. J. Frink, in charge of second and opposition brigade. Performers: Harry La Roy, novelty bar act and juggling; George and Georgie Bounding, billiard table and double trapeze; Irwin West, wire and contortion; La Roy and Myers, revolving ladder; Belmont's comedy donkeys; Albert Elliott, Al. F. Wheeler Jr. and Harry La Roy, clowns, and Prof. Wheeler's troupe of ponies, mules and dogs. Side show: Prof. W. T. Miller, Punch, magic and ___ figures; Madam Elnora, fire queen; Miss Cole, snake hypnotist, and Capt. Crawford, untambable lion act. Ed. H. Bell, superintendnent of privileges and forage agent. Our band of ten pieces is second to none in the circus business.
Notes from Walter L. Main's winter quarters. A terrific wind and rain storm passed over Geneva, O., Aug. _. The wind blew almost a hurricane and the rain came down in torrents. Trees were blown over and roofs blown from buildings. The greatest damage was the unroofing of our winter circus quarters, one and one-quarter miles west of Geneva. The wind came from the West and caught the building squarely on the end, lifting the roof from that end and carrying a part of it over the building and laying it nicely on the ground, and part was carried to the east end of the building and deposited over that end. The walls were caved in in places and the whole building presents a demolished condition. The building was a one story brick, 180x240, with composition roof. The building was also struck by lightning and slightly damaged in that way.
Notes from Floto's Show. The immense corn crops in Iowa, Kansas and Missouri will just about tide the festive farmer over his sawdust and zoological experience this season, for eight circuses are now in ___, but friendly strife for the money. Floto Shows go to the coast again, thus avoiding all this merry-making, likewise, the ever fearful quarantine regulations of the South. There are so many circus agents now in Kansas City they all fill one hotel. Ten opposition agents generally travel together, so they can get a rate on one ticket. Someone suggested they all go Westward to the new opening of the Vintah reservation, where they would all be sure of getting a circus lot each. There are so many circuses in Iowa, all that is necessary to do is for the bill posters to put dates on someone else's paper. One wagon show is dating that "Twenty mule borax team" stand, as they say it is better printing than the show has. Any of Floto's agents will tell you business is fine with the show. Floto and Pawnee Bill's Show are at Grinnell, Ia., same day, Saturday, Aug. 12. Of course, Floto will do good business because of its popularity in Iowa.
Straight talk from John Robinson's Ten Big Shows. We are doing a phenomenal business, the largest in the history of this organization. At North Tonawanda Capt. Webb and family and Mrs. Pete Stanton and party were honored guests. Walter Main was our guest at Ashtabula and Painsville. It rained both days. At Tiffin, O., the celebrated carrier pigeon, "Doc Waddell," was killed. At Marion our canvas withstood a frightful storm. Boss canvas man Curtis and his men did themselves proud. Tom Bisping, in the hippodrome races, was caught by a quarter pole and knocked from his horses, unconscious, and three of his ribs were broken. Two leopards were born at Marion. An antelope was born at Shelby. The veteran retired clown, John Lowlow, visited at Shelby, and offered for sale a fly exterminator, and everybody bought. At Marysville, the home of Col. A. B. Robinson burned down during the afternoon performance. The Colonel is a relative of the circus folks of that name. The elephants were tied up in a barracade, preventing the people from leaving the tent and thus avoiding a panic. One hundred and fifty of the show people were detailed to put out the fire, which they did, July __. At Bellefontaine four baby lions were born. Billy McGowan, correspondent, spent several days with the circus taking photos. At Elyria, Willis H. Cobb was our honored guest, and at Cambridge, John Richardson received the honors. There were nearly 20,000 paid admission at Caldwell, dur to the fact that Beverly, near there, is the home place of Oliver Scott, our genral agent. At Athens, a water buffalo was born. After the matinee at Athens, the elephants and several ground acts were taken to the asylum, and a free exhibition given for the lunatics. At Portsmouth, a live wire struck a horse valued at $600, killing him. After an absence of fifteen years, John F. Robinson is managing the show, in order to allow his son, John G., a vacation.
A. A. Lowande received word recently that Lillian Shaffer, of the Demarest combination, was thrown from her horse and dragged half a mile. Her leg was crushed so badly that amputation was necessary.
Art Adair, principal comedian and clown, with Forepaugh & Sells Circus, is one of the big comedy successes, especially in the old woman and her crying babe. Art Adair will play vaudeville next winter, presenting his original eccentric musical specialty, and is booked up until the middle of February.
Doughterty Bros. joined the Floto Shows at Beatrice, Neb., Aug. 8, on account of the sudden closing of the Big City Vaudeville Show.
Geo. Mantell, special agent with the Hargreaves Big R. R. Show, after closing a successful season with the aforesaid show, will open with the Vernon Stock Co., as agent.
Notes from Andrew Downie's Monster Shows. . . . This is our third week in Pennsylvania, and although the State is alive with shows, our business has been big. At Stroudsburg, we turned people away at both performances. Northampton and Hamburg were banner towns. Several new acts have been added to the big show, which is now stronger than ever. The side show alwyas gets its share of patronage, and give satisfaction.
Thomas Butler, the bicyclist, who had been doing a loop-the-gap act with Barnum & Bailey's Circus, under the name of "Volo," died at Missoula, Mont., Aug. 10, from injuries sustained at Helena on the previous day. He failed to cover the forty foot gap, and struck the platform, falling to the ground and fracturing his skull and sustaing internal injuries. His wife, who does the automobile "dip of death," with the same show, survives him.
A. M. (Zanda) Griswold, a candy dealer with Hargreaves' Circus, was killed by an express on "Dead Man's Bridge," at Port Chester, N.Y., on Aug. 8. During last season he was connected with the New York Hippodrome.
New York Clipper, September 2, 1905,p. 705. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Greater Norris & Rowe Circus notes. Sir Wilfred Laurier and a party of distinguised ladies and gentlemen attended the afternoon performance on Aug. 23, as Governor General of Canada Lord ___ commanded the Norris & Rowe Show to give a performance on the lawn of the executive mansion, Rideau Hall, Ottawa. The show received a letter of indorsement from Lord ___. H. S. Rowe, the general manager, will sail for Europe in a fortnight, to close contracts for several big acts for next season. He is negotiating with one of the greatest sensational feature acts that has ever been brought to this country, and it expected he will bring back a contract for it. W. W. Brown, lot superintendent, was left a fortune, through the death of an uncle. Mr. Brown will invest his money in real estated in Santa Cruz, Cal., the new winter quarters of the show. Herbert Rumley, one of the animal trainers with the show, will be married to a California girl at the close of the present season. Mr. Rumley has been with the Norris & Rowe show for fifteen years. J. H. Fitzpatrick, formerly business manager of ___ College for Women, at Hagerstown, Md., has been engaged to do the newspaper work with the show.
Sig. Sautelle and Welsh Bros.' Big Combine notes. . . . The big lioness, Queen, gave birth to two cubs at Mifflin, Pa. The cubs were named "Mifflin" and "Judge Patterson," the latter in honor of a prominent jurist of Juniata County. The menagerie is now up to the standard, and is a strong feature of the show. It consists of twenty-three cages, four elephants, five camels . . . and four zebras. W. H. Gardiner, the dean of general circus agents, was a special guest of Governor Sautelle recently, and enjoyed a pleasant visit. The roster of the "big show" remains the same as our opening date in April. Frank ___ and the Clements Sisters are new arrivals for James Morrow's vaudeville carnival, which is given after the regular circus performance. V. O. Woodward, car manager, retired from the advance forces Aug. 26, and is succeeded by Al. Foster. The show is scheduled for a fortnight tour through West Virginia.
New York Clipper, September 9, 1905, p. 727. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
James A. McClean has left the Andrew Downie advance, and will make Albany, N.Y. his headquarters for the winter.
Items from the William Todd Famous Shows. The past three weeks have found us along the Summer seashore resorts in New Jersey, doing a turnaway business three nights weekly, the remainder having the S. R. O. sign displayed. This is the third consecutive season that Mr. Todd has played these towns, and business this season has been at least a third larger than in former years. Have just received an entirely new spread of canvas, which certainly makes a pretty spread on the lot. With our private car, Dorothy, newly overhauled, it makes a neat flash for a little one. All are well, and looking forward to our second Southern tour. We use a stage and ring for our performance, a small band for street, and a four piece orchestra inside, having twenty people all told. Have been making some three day stands, but will make all one day stands now until October, in Virginia. [Was Todt show, name changed]
Notes from Bert Silver's Circus. We closed our season of sixteen weeks at our home Aug. 26, having been very successful. We only lost two nights. The Silver Family Swiss Bell Ringers, consisting of Bert Silver, his son, Earl, and daughters, Frances and Laura, are engaged on the Star Lyceum Course of Chicago, for thirty weeks, opening in Illinois Oct. 1. . . . Chas. Stone joined Silber Bros.' Show in Northern Michigan. Jess Godrude, slack wire man, left to fill engagements in Indiana fairs. The other people went home. The show will be enlarged to ten wagons, all covered and arranged for sleeping quarters. Mr. Silver is enlarging his headquarters by a new wagon barn, 30x60. Three new wagons are now being built at Standish, Mich. Everyone was well when closing, and all left by train, none being compelled to walk, as salaries are always paid with this show.
In a baseball game between members of the Forepaugh-Sells and Ringling Bros.' Shows, played at Ottumwa, Ia., on Aug. 27, the latter were victorious, by the close score of four runs to three. Ten innings of tough tusseling were required to gain a victory for the Ringlings, and the game was an excellent one despite the numerous errors. The big battle of the diamond was played to decide a dispute of long standing between the two huge canvas shows, and was an event that will live in the annals of the greatest American amusements - baseball and circuses.
"Doc" Waddell's father, R. H. Andress, a railroad engineer, was scalded to death last week, in a wreck at Jackson, O. For fifty-nine years Mr. Andress ran an engine on the B. & O.
Martin Mulligan has closed as manager of Lemon Bros.' advertising car No. 2, and Milton Baker has been engaged in his place.
New York Clipper, September 23, 1905, p. 789. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. . . . Mr. Wheeler has lately purchased from Fred Darling his troupe of leaping greyhounds, which make quite an addition to our dog and pony contingent, which now consists of eight acts. Albert Gaston is principal clown, and has as his able seconds Harry La Roy and Al. F. Wheeler Jr., who make things lively in the fun making department. . . . Our side show is under the management of Prof. W. T. Miller . . . Ed. H. Bell has charge of the concert, and it is a common occurrance to hear Supt. Geo. Wood give his men orders to "leave all the seats up." Our season will extend to Oct. 1 or later, when we go into winter quarters at Schenectady, N.Y., where Mr. Wheeler's Winter Indoor Circus opens early in November.
Notes from Andrew Downie's Monster Shows. . . . We have been in Delaware for the past two weeks, and business has been at top notch at every stand. We are now in Maryland, and the prospects are bright for a continuance of big business. Our popular boss canvas man, Leo Collins, was presented, a few days ago, by the working men of his department, with a beautiful gold watch and chain, as a birthday present. The women of the company also presented Mr. Collins with a handsome pocket book. The show is giving the best of satisfaction all along the route.
Walter L. Main writes: "I have made no arrangements to re-enter the circus business in 1906. At present I do not own any show, nor do I contemplate owning one."
Gladys De Forest reports meeting with big success with Ringling Bros.' Circus. Harry De Forest, juggler, and owner of the De Forest Dog and Monkey Circus, is also winning success with the Ringling Show.
Frank Wright, in eccentric singing, dancing and comedy, joined the Sig. Sautelle and Welsh Circuses, at Mercer, Pa., Sept. 4 Mr. Wright says that hte show had phenomenal business at Mercer.
The Dave W. Perrins Old Time Circus closes in two weeks. Business, we are informed, has been very good this season.
Geo. H. Beckley, the veteran circus agent, who has been, during the season, the manager of car No. 1 and press agent with the Great Sells & Downs, was compelled to resign his position at Pleasanton, Kan., on account of illness, and will go to a hospital for a few weeks' treatment.
Sidney Wire, who went to Paris, Fr., after leaving the Buffalo Bill Wild West, writes under date of Sept. 1, as follows: "I visited Grenoble to see the remnants of the McCaddon Show, which stranded there some few weeks since, leaving the show in the hands of a receiver, while the employees, consisting of performers, men and women, bill posters, and canvas and property men, were left completely in the lurch. The fact of the "ghost" not having walked for more than two months by no means improving matters. All hands are creditors of the show for various amounts, and the outlook is far from promising. Many of the performers who saw ahead had already forsaken the show, among them being: The Potter Family of aerialists, Charle Carroll and wife, Bob Stickney and wife, and M'lle Amy, sword swallower. Among those who are still clinging to the wreck I noticed Sam Watson and wife, the Stirk Family, the ___, clowns; Wallet, the equestrian; Alfonso and wife; ___ Clark, the side show manager; Jack Coleman, boss hostler; ___, car manager, and William Ducrow, equestrian director, and many others not to mention, and large numbers of working people in all departments, already mentioned. The above are all waiting for a settlement of some kind for wages due them, being entirely without means, and consequently without food, as the cook house has long since ceased to produce, and now all are waiting anxiously for the result of the auction sale, which is to take place at Vendome, Sept. 7." [The latest information we have received on this matter is that Isaac Guggenheimer has placed $2,500 with ___, at Paris, for the relief of the stranded employees of the McCaddon Show at Grenoble. Ed. Clipper.]
The Ty-Bell Sisters are booked to open with the Orrin Bros., in Mexico . . . They are present with the Great Wallace Shows.
New York Clipper, October 21, 1905, pp. 887, 891. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
W. H. Gardner, known as the general advance agent of the Barnum & Bailey Shows almost constantly since 1881 until last October, when he retired from business, will resume business, having become interested as the general advance manager and one of the owners of the Carl Hagenbeck Circus, Menagerie and Trained Animal Shows, which for next season will be greatly englarged, making it one of the most novel and attractive tented exhibitions in America.
Frank St. John writes: "On Oct. 8 the Forepaugh-Sells ball team played the Ringling Bros.' team at El Reno, Okla. Score: Forepaugh-Sells team, 21; Ringling Bros., 2. The Forepaugh tem is under the management of Oscar Lowande. There was the largest gathering of circus people for an affair of this kind in the history of the circus business. We play the Barnum & Bailey team at Dallas, Tex., Oct. 22."
Joseph T. McCaddon was remanded Oct. 10, at Bow Street Court, London, Eng., until 13, at request of counsel.
The Zecks, aerial performers, are with the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Show, this being their second season with this show, and are re-engaged for Al. F. Wheeler's Winter Indoor Society Circus and Merchants' Carnival.
Jess Brown and wife have joined the Great Shelby Show, the former to have charge of side show.
Fred A. Hodgson, manager of Orrin Bros.' Circus, will arrive in New York about Oct. 16.
Rippel Show notes. We are in our twenty-fifth week, and will close about Nov. 1. Our season has been a very good one. We have made Ohio, Michigan and Indiana. It was our eighth season in Indiana. We had one bad mishap at Gallen, Mich., when our seats fell on soft, marshy ground, wounding six people. It cost us considerable money to square all the claims. We aim to enlarge the show, as we have done every season. Our winter quarters will be at Frankfort, Ind.
Ed. E. Daley, press agent of the Gentry Bros. Shows, spent a day at his home recently. At the close of the circus season he will handle the advance of ___'s Orientals.
Carl Mayo, clown, formerly with Ringling Bros.' and the Wallace Shows, has returned to America from the disastrous trip to France with the McCaddon Show.
Since the Ellet Troupe has closed with the Forepaugh & Sells Show, the members have played Ft. Wayne, Ind. merchants' free street fair; Peru, Ind. free street carnival; Lebanon, Ind. county fair; Peoria, Ill. free street carnival; Bethany, Mo. free street fair and stock show, and county fair at Antigo, Wis., and a two day fair at Winchen, Wis. They are engaged as a special feature at the Salt Lake City, Utah, State fair. Mr. Ellet has a number of fairs in the South to play after he gets through at Salt Lake. The Ellet Troupe has four people.
Sidney Wire will return to America shortly, for a rest, his eyes having been affected of late.
The Wm. Irwin Family were at Lemp's Park, with the Wm. Ashton Circus, week of Sept. 24.
Notes from the Al. F. Wheeler Show. We closed our most successful season Oct. 5, at Lowville, N.Y. Every one with this company has enjoyed the best of health traveling in the Catskill and Adirondack Mountains, and the "gent in white" has always perambulated around the ticket wagon every week. On Sept. 15, Mr. Wheeler was very much surprised, while at dinner, by a present from members of the company of an elegant watch charm, with a Masonic emblem. Mr. Wheeler will enlarge his company next season to double its present size.
Wm. J. Yaeger, stilt acrobat, has closed with the John P. Harris Shows, and joined the Great Van Amburg Shows for the rest of this season.
Aimee Blondell, a lion tamer, was attacked and terribly mutilated during a circus performance at Gilman, Ill., Oct. _, by a trick lion. It is thought she will die. She was saved from immediate death in the cage by United States cavalrymen traveling with the circus, who shot the lion. Miss Blondell was feeding several lions in a cage, when the big animal sprang upon her. After wounding her severly in the back, the beast nearly pulled her right arm from its socket.
Joseph McCaddon, former proprietor of McCaddon's International Circus, was arrested at Southampton, Eng., Sept. 30, as he was about to sail for New York with the remains of his wife, who died of heart disease in London, 18. He was arraigned in the Bow Street Extradiction Court (London), charged with fraudulent bankruptcy, by the French authorities, at the time of the failure of his circus at Grenoble, Fr. He was remanded under $40,000 bail, J. Lyons and Montague Gluckstein going on his bond for $20,000 each. The body of Mrs. McCaddon was brought to New York. She had gone to Europe with her husband, but the disaster he experienced is said to have prostrated her. When arrested, Mr. McCaddon said: "I am not guilty of any fraud. This action is very cruel, as my whereabouts have been well known to these French people, who also knew that I was conveying the remains of my wife to New York." Mr. McCaddon had given the French official receiver the accounts of the company. The magistrate, appreciating his misfortunes, admitted the accused to bail. Mrs. McCaddon's body arrived in New York Oct. 7.
Jack Coleman, boss hostler, and R. R. ___, master of transportation, with McCaddon's Great International Circus, were Clipper callers Oct. 7, having just arrived from Europe.
A. Pubillones arrived from Europe recently.
Peerless St. Julian is doing a new act with Pawnee Bill's Great Wild West, in training and handling the big boa constrictors, eight in number.
New York Clipper, October 28, 1905, p. 923. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Lucky Bill Show notes. While playing at Cherryvale, Kan., Oct. 9, 10, our genial manager, Lucky Bill, together with Sid. De Clairville, aerialist, and W. M. Newton Jr., picture machine operator, were made members of the F. O. E. Aerie No. 1,137, receiving initiation in full on Monday evening, after the performance. This makes eight members of the company that are Eagles. On Tuesday evening the entire aerie, together with their wives and friends, attended the performance. After the performance a banquet was spread in the aerie banquet hall, in honor of the three new members. Other members of the show are: the McCoy Family, jugglers; the Grangers, musical comedians; the Whitlarks, contortionists and aerialists; the Marias Des Cygne, rolling globe; W. M. Newton, Roman hippodrome and hurdle rider, and May Dunlap, musical director. The show has had a most successful season for the past thirty-one weeks. Not a date nor a meal has been missed in the entire time, and the "man in white" has appeared every Sunday. The closing date, Oct. 28, at our home town, Quenemo, Kan., on which occasion the entire proceeds will be donated to charitable purposes.
New York Clipper, November 4, 1905, p. 951. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Gollmar Bros. closed a highly successful season Oct. 14, and will winter their show at Baraboo, Wis., and not at Freeport, as has been mentioned.
Joseph T. McCaddon was again remanded at Bow Street Police Court, London, Eng., Oct. 27. Counsel for the defense protested against the long delay.
Notes from the Frank A. Robbins All Feature Shows. We closed a very successful season on Oct. 19, at Dover, Del., and the members have left for different parts of the country. Of the executive staff: treasurer John Glennan has gone to Winchester, N.H. to buy horses; J. Banks is visiting friends in New York; Chas. Sprague, the right hand man to the "governor," is home in New York for a few days, after which he takes up his work again with the show for the winter; Dave Haley, the well known contractor, is intending to leave shortly with an attraction for the winter season; C. W. Coleman, who was manager of the advertising car, has gone to Crisfield, Md., where he has leased the Opera House for a term of years; his wife, Lillian May Coleman, who was mailing clerk with the show, has also joined him in Crisfield, where they have established a very nice little home. The people of the town have certainly made no mistake when they succeeded in getting Mr. Coleman to come there. ___ Beckman, the general agent, has gone on to St. Louis to take charge of the advance of Dockstader's Minstrels; W. Goodwin, manager of the No. 1 car, has gone to New York, to go out with some show for the winter season; Chas. and Frank A. Jr. have gone to take the care of the winter quarters on their shoulders. This is one of the few shows that went out last Spring and came back with what you could call a bank roll.
John Harrison writes: "The Pubillones Circus and Variety Co., for the winter season in Havana, Cuba, sail from New York, Oct. 26, in company with Antonio Pubillones. I will sail on Oct. __, with another company and a grand wild animal collection, including the well known circus of Mr. Hargreave. The opening of the season will be Nov. _, in the Grand National Theatre, formerly known as the ___ Opera House, which has been engaged by Mr. Pubillones. . . .
Mr. and Mrs. Sam Watson wish to deny the report that they were stranded with the McCaddon Circus, abroad. Mr. Watson also states that he has been with the Barnum & Bailey Show for the past six or seven seasons. He claims to be the only Sam Watson in the show business.
Pawnee Bill notes. Beyond a reasonable doubt Maj. Lillie (Pawnee Bill) has proven this season that a first class Wild West show can follow any large circus, and neither the circus or Wild West suffer therefrom. On our tour through Oklahoma Territory and Indian Territory almost every stand has been in opposition to one of the larger circuses, and with all this, our business through here this season has been the largest the show has ever done west of the Mississippi River. Oklahoma City, El Reno, Hobart and Ardmore were turnaways. At Lawton, Oklahoma, Geronimo, the Apache chief, who is held at Fort Sill as a prisoner of war, visited the show, permission being granted him through the influence of Geo. Remington, quartermaster at the fort. At Oklahoma City, India Temple of Mystic Shriners attended in a body, to participate in the christening of a sacred white baby camel. . . . We will close our season on Nov. 4, at Malden, Mo. It has been the most successful season of Maj. Lillie's career. Already preparations are under way for launching, next season, the largest and best Wild West show ever organized. The Great Far East Department will be augmented by the addition of a number of foreign races, never before seen in America. These will be placed on the platforms in a large canvas, to form an ethnological congress to take the place of a circus menagerie. The show will be enlarged throughout.
Mrs. Walter Silbon, of the Silbon Family, died Oct. 3, in Hull, England. Her sister, Mrs. Stirk, of the Stirk Family, survives her.
New York Clipper, November 18, 1905, pp. 986, 988, 998, 1001. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Wm. Altherr's Dog and Pony Circus. While en route from St. Louis to Perryville, Mo., on the steamer Cape Giradeau, Woodie Cook, principal clown, initiated the captain of the steamer and seventy-five of the passengers, among them the following members of the above named troupe, into the order of Gobble, Gobble, Gobble: Wm. Altherr, proprietor; Fred Lighter, treasurer; John Morgan, equestrian director; Howard F. Baldwin, announcer; Peter Peterson, properties; Harry Dickenson, canine trainer; James O'Neill, Mrs. O'Neill, Tony Weismantic, Theo. ___, Happy Cameron . . . Trendall Bros., Roxey De ___, Toots Jones and her Hawaiian troupe . . . McKenna Bros. . . . and fifty others at Perryville, Mo.
The Forepaugh-Sells Show will close Nov. 22.
From Al. F. Wheeler's winter quarters. We have all of our paraphernalia neatly stored away, and the animals and stock are comfortably housed for the winter. Already active preparations are under way for the season of 1906. Three new cage wagons will be added, including a large lion cage for our untamable act. A new band wagon will also be added. We will open in the Spring with an entire new spread of canvas, now in course of construction. Nearly all the heads of departments of the past season have been retained. Leon Yeaton will again be general agent, while F. J. Frink, who the past season had charge of the second advance brigade, will divide his attention between the advance and assisting Mr. Wheeler in the management of affairs back. Geo. Woods is re-engaged as superintendent, and nearly all of the other department bosses will answer present when the 1906 roll is called.
W. P. English was a recent Clipper caller, and reports a very successful season with the Barnum & Bailey Circus. Mr. English is first bass player with Carl Clair's Military Band, and also mail agent with the circus. He will be located in New York this winter, writing music. Several of Mr. English's compositions have become very popular.
Frank P. Maynard, eccentric clown, better known as Shorty Maynard, closed with the Wallace Show on Oct. 23, at Williamson, W. Va.
Frank A. Robbins was a Clipper caller last week. The Robbins Circus closed Oct. 19, in Dover, Del., and manager Robbins states that it is the most successful season he has ever had in his long experience in the show business. The show immediately went to its winter quarters in Jersey City, where it will undergo the usual overhauling.
Notes from E. G. Smith's Colossal Shows and Trained Animal Exposition. We closed a season of twenty-five weeks on Saturday, October 14, and immediately started for our new winter quarters at Lambertsville, Pa., where we are now comfortably houseed for the winter. The season just passed proved a successful one financially, and the "Little Giant" made many new friends along its entire route. The weather was exceptionally fine, and the show lost only one stand the entire season. The draught and ring stock came in in better condition than ever, and, in fact, both man and beasts connected with this show had a pleasant season. While many shows came to grief in the section were were playing, we continued on, and every week saw a balance on the right side of the ledger. All the draught stock will be kept over winter for next season's campaign. All the wagons will be overhauled and repainted, and, in fact, the outfit will undergo a complete repairing, so it will be practically new for our tenth successive season, which will open, as usual, the latter part of April 1906. Following is the roster of people that remained the entire season: Keller Iseminger, J. J. Ray Dee, Sam Carnahan, Ira Duncan, Freeman Ringler, Jack Arnold, Ed. Chamberlin, Bob Sykes, Ed. and Nellie Thires, Mr. and Mrs. ?. G. Smith.
Herman Q. Smith, manager of No. 1 car with the Greater Norris & Rowe Circus, writes: "We have been playing Old Mexico for four weeks, playing the principal cities between El Paso, Tex, and the City of Mexico, on the Mexican Central Railway. In the first place I want to say that this show, nor any other show on earth, ever got the service that we are getting from the Mexican Central. We have all got so that we feel as though we own the road, and as to business I will not say anything - let the rest of them take the chances that Norris & Rowe took to find out. We played the City of Mexico for nine days, commencing Saturday, Oct. 28. In this country we show every Sunday, as Sunday is the day of sports and amusement. When I get into the towns with my car and turn my billing men loose, the people think that we are the show, and it is almost impossible for the men to do their work, as the natives crowd around to see the work and the pictures. In most of the places we have to get police protection to keep them back. The largest sheet of paper they ever saw put up is an 8-sheet, and when they see 100-sheet stands go up they simply stare in amazement. I was anxious to see how they would act at a performance, so I went back to see the show at Silao, and I rode in the parade to get the benefit of all the sights, and to describe what I saw would take an issue of your paper. As to the behavior of the audiences, they simply sit in their seats and yell. What puzzles them most is how the show can be put up and taken down in one day. After the shows they do not go home, but stay on the lot until the last load has left, and they seem to figure that that is part of the show. When I see the dear old Stars and Stripes again I will take off my hat."
The Ringling Bros.' Circus will close the season at Meridian, Miss., Nov. 25.
Notes from Washburn & D'Alma's Trained Animal Show. The show went into winter quarters near Baltimore, after having the most prosperous season enjoyed by the veteran showman, Washburn. The new ring barn is almost completed where all the animals will be kept in school this winter, and many new acts will be ready for the opening early in April. Contracts have been made for two new flat cars, and one stock car. The sleepers have been sent to the shops to be overhauled and painted. Mechanics will be at work all winter, building new cages, and gold leaf will be spread with a lavish hand. There will be a happy family added, consisting of an elephant, two lions, two leopards, two tigers, a bear, zebra, pony and dog. The street parade will be enlarged by thirty head of ponies and four tableaux wagons. The canvas maker will come in for his share of patronage. It is the intention of the Messrs. Washburn and D'Alma to make this the finest seven car show on the road.
J. Henry Rice is engaged as general agent for the Great Hargreaves Shows, season of 1906. This will be his fifth season with Mr. Hargreaves as general agent. Mr. Hargreaves has arranged for a new advertising car.
From John Robinson's Ten Big Shows. We struck the rain belt in Missouri, and it remained with us, even in our two stands in Arkansas. Business, however, has been good. At Popular Bluff the performers and the U. S. Cavalry men played baseball, manager Hayes, of the Opera House, kindly granted them the ball park. The receipts were turned over to the churches of the town. The score was two to one, in favor of the performers. The winning run was made by Jimmie Dutton ___ out a three-bagger. De Mario, the contortionist, slid from third base to the home plate. It was a Popular Bluff that the elephant, Tip, stole and swallowed a gold watch and a bonnet, belonging to a society woman. At Paragould, Ark., we experienced the worst day in the history of the show. It poured rain and we missed our first parage. The Missouri tour has been one of social visits. At Willow Springs, Chas. F. Fick, special representative of Gollmar Bros.' Shows, and his family were our honored guests. At Mountain Grove, paopular Otto Krause and the Wood Sisters occupied the box for guests of honor. They were accompanied by Morris Myers, formerly manager of the theatre at Tuscaloosa. He is now field representative for a manufacturing company of St. Louis. It was cold, as Mountain Grove is ___ feet above the sea level. It snowed on us en route from Mountain Grove to Monett. At Monett Edward Holland received a shipment of fifty elephants from the Hagenbeck Show, small ivory elephants, band carved, from India, as tiny watch charms. "Kid" Henry, the clown, was called home to Warren, Pa., by a telegram, stating that his mother was dying. A train coming into Monett struck Harry Gardner, a Cincinnati porter, on Car No. 7, and killed him. He was trying to save James Robinson's English bulldog. There were visitors galore at Monett. William Mayo Sr. and his son, Bert, from the Hall Show, were the guests of Rose ___ and family. The Mayos now have a jewelry store at Aurora, Mo. Members of the A. P. Whitney Carnival Co. were also our guests. Mrs. Whitney was crowned by the Robinson Circus people as the queen of all carnivals. Anna Eva Fay and her company took in the exhibitions. Doc Ray and his medicine company spent a day with the "Ten Big." He is en route to California, making the longest jump ever made by a medicine organization. We go from Missouri into Indian Territory, and thence to Arkansas. On Saturday, Oct. 28, the closing day of the Barnum & Bailey Show, the following telegram was sent them: "John Robinson's 'Ten Big' Shows send you greetings. May your homeward journey be safe and laurel laden." Ringling Bros. close in Montgomery Nov. 6. The "Ten Big" will send you the season's greetings. The question now is, when will John Robinson close? Our show once made a season of twenty-eight months, and four years ago it did not close until Dec. 28.
The Benevolent Order of American Tigers, a lodge of the Barnum & Bailey Circus, gave their farewell banquet at the Cliff Hotel, Dallas, Tex., on Oct. 22. Many of the Forepaugh & Sells Brothers' people, who were to exhibit in McKinley, Tex. the day following, were present. Prior to the banquet a game of baseball was played between teams representing the respective green rooms of the shows, the game resulting in a victory for the Forepaugh nine, the score being 20 to 3. The committee in charge of the banquet was: Barry Gray, president; John Mooney, John Breck . . . The festivities were opened by Mr. Gray (who accepted the toastmaster's chair) with an appropriate address, and he was followed by Chas. Andress, the legal adjuster of the show, who welcomed the Forepaugh people. Mr. Lancaster, of the Forepaugh Show, replied to Mr. Andress, thanking the Barnum & Bailey people for the fine time that had been given them, and said that he hoped in the years to come the Barnum & Bailey people would be on as good terms with the Forepaugh & Sells Show as they had been during the past year. A fine musical entertainment was then rendered by the Hale, Wills and Hale Trio, which was greatly appreciated by everyone. The Welsh giant, Capt. Geo. Auger, was then called upon for a speech, to which he responded. J. McLaughlin was introduced, and gave several fine vocal selections. Charles Stock the speaker of the eveining, followed Mr. McLaughlin with an address, in which he gave the history of the organization from the time it was formed to the present time. He told how it had been first thought of as a small entertainment when the circus was in Europe, four years ago. The social gathering was held in the evening of a day when a canvasman had been seriously injured. This man had no money and few friends, and a small sum was raised for his benefit by subscription, and queries were raised as to what would become of the injured man, as it was impossible for him to gain admission to the hospitals because of the stringest rules in force. Someone suggested that they form a little club and have it pay so much weekly for the support of any of its members who should happen to be injured. This was the beginning of what was known as the Benevolent Protective Order of Tigers. This organization lasted during the time that the show was abroad. The year following its return to America some of the former employees banded together and reorganized the lodge, giving it the name of the Benevolent Order of American Tigeres, and it was incorporated under the laws of Connecticut, in the City of Bridgeport, Sept. 19, 1903. The growth of the order has been rapid, and at the present time it has nearly three hundred members. So much good has been done that other shows are beginning to form similar lodges, and the time is not far distant when every show will have its Tiger Club. Following Mr. Stock's speech the Hale, Wills and Hale Trio again rendered another vocal selection. Over two hundred and fifty guests wer present, and without exception they report a very delightful and enjoyable reunion.
Notes from the Barlow Show. We are now packed away at our winter quarters. We closed a successful season of twenty-four weeks. It was our eighth season. We are now preparing to train six Shetland ponies, fifteen dogs, four goats and some monkeys, and four Mexican burros. All the stock is young and of extra good quality. This show has had a steady, slow growth from the start. Frank Decker, a performer, who has been with us for four seasons, who was taken to the Akron, O., Hospital, Aug. 27, will soon be able to be brought to winter quarters. He had typhoid fever.
Bonheur Bros.' notes. Thursday, Oct. 27, saw the end of good show weather, under tents, so far as traveling by wagon roads was concerned, but that night the managers were gratified to see a capacity crowd on a cold, raw evening. An extra section of seats had to be put in to accommodate those arriving after the performance began, and a large crowd remained over to see the concert. Next day a big snow storm came on and practically ended the season. An attempt was made to continue in the hope of better weather later on, but the melting snow rendered the already bad roads infinitely worse. By the most heroic and strenuous struggle the train of wagons made only six miles in seven hours. A king bolt broke on one of the reserve seat wagons, letting the front down in the mud. The roadway was a perfect slough of soft mire on both sides, so that none of the other wagons in the train could safely get by the wrecked one, and a delay was thus unavoidable while another king bolt was sought and secured at a farm house. The drivers managed to get the wagon up with jacks, working ankle deep in mud to do so, and again started, when another seat wagon, in turning a short bend, broke the reach, and the same amount of delay was experienced while a new reach was quicky substituted from a piece of timber that was luckily in reach. Night found the show only half way to the town billed, and four heavy baggage wagons were abandoned, being left hub deep in a slough, made practically impassable by the melting snow. Another snow storm came up at Fall River, and it was decided to close the show and ship to winter quarters, as men and horses were completely exhausted. Comfortable quarters were rented to house the men, and as the livery barns were occupied by horse buyers' stock, the show stock had to be distributed all around at private barns until cars could be charted to transport the show to its winter home. Only one box car could be had for love or money, as every car that could be gotten was shipped West as fast as they were received and used to ship wheat in. So this one, a big furniture car, was packed, and the rest of the outfit taken overland for home, a distance of two hundred and twenty-five miles, sixteen towns being canceled on the route. All performers, working people and musicians wer retained to help drive through. Thus ended the most successful season the Golden Mascot Show has known, and only for the snows, would have done good business all the way in to Carmen.
Hagenbeck notes. "The Carl Hagenbeck Circus and Menagerie will be a wonder next season," is the greeting W. H. Gardner gives his friends in New York these days. He is busily engaged in his newly opened offices in the Childs Building. Associated with Mr. Gardner is Chas. Thompson, also favorably known to the white top fraternity, who is now the general manager of the Hagenbeck Circus. These men, builders of many shows and commanders of innumberable bitterly fought opposition battles, are working with hearty good will toward making the Carl Hagenbeck Circus second to none in the tented amusement field. And at the Carthage, O., fair grounds, where the circus is in winter quarters, C. Lee Williams and Lorenz Hagenbeck are rapidly welding novel animal acts together and overseeing the work of contracting new cars, parade dens and glittering pageant floats. Each and every department of the show is being increased. Messrs. Thompson, Williams and Gardner have already engaged one of the most thrilling features procurable in Europe. They will add it to the wonderful Hagenbeck trained wild beasts, and surround it with hundreds of high class equestrian, aerial and acrobatic conceptions. The Hagenbeck Circus will be given in three rings, on two stages, in steel arenas and around a racing track. The hippodrome events will be one of the many features of the circus, and half a hundred thoroughbred racing horses have been purchaed and are in training. Several agents are out in the Western States picking up superb heavy draft horses for use in pulling the show, and adding to the attractiveness of the parade. The zoological sections of the parade and menagerie will be augmented by the addition of a herd of camel and by several giraffes, a rhinoceros, hippopottamus and other of the larger animals. Lorenz Hagenbeck will leave next week for Stelligen, in Germany, the home of the Hagenbeck Show, to arrange for the shipment of these animals. The Hagenbeck Circus has been incorporated since the summer tour of 1905 came to an end, and is owned principally by John H. Havlin, Carl Hagenbeck, Frank R. Tate, C. Lee Williams and W. H. Gardner. Messrs Williams, Thompson and Gardner will be decidedly active during next season's tour, in controlling the destinies of the great amusement enterprise. Mr. Gardner will handle the entire advance, while Mr. Williams will remain back with the show and devote his attention to the financial end, and Mr. Thompson will be the general manager. Changes are being made in the personel of the various stafs, and the pick of experienced circus men throughout the country are being gathered together under the Hagenbeck banner, which will be waved with vigor that characetrizes modern circus men.
Notes from Pawnee Bill's Wild West Co. Our season closed at Malden, Mo., Nov. 4. We will ship direct to Canton, O., where Major Lillie has leased (for a term of years) commodious quarters. We showed at Little Rock, Ark., one day behind the Barnum & Bailey Show, and the immense business we did again demonstrates that a circus and wild west show are not conflicting oppositions. . . . While the show will winter at Canton, the business headquarters will remain at Pittsburg, Pa., where our opening will take place the latter part of April. Pawnee Bill has received a very flattering offer from a syndicate composed of wealthy showmen, to buy the Pawnee Bill Show, allowing him to retain a considerable interest. This proves beyond a doubt that the title (Pawnee Bill) has advanced materially in the scale of show valuations.
Fred A. Hodgson, manager of the Orrin Circus, was the guest of the Ringling Brothers, at Charleston, S.C., Nov. 11 and 12. Mr. Hodgson has secured a number of big acts for his coming season.
Billy Kin Kaid, the Scotch clown juggler, has returned to New York. He reports a successful season with the Barnum & Bailey Show, and is re-engaged for 1906. He sails for Glasgow, Scotland, Dec. __, to fill six weeks in pantomime with Mons. Orr.
Accounts are at hand regarding the successful opening of the Pubillones Circus at Havana, Cuba, on Nov. _, at the National Opera House. Capacity business is still the rule, and prospects are bright for a most successful season. The performers include: the Triller Bros., Mascot, the performing horse; Senorita Ursisina, trapeze; Reed, in comic equestrian work . . . Levis Family, wire act; Pito, the clown, and Chocolate, and the Jordon Family, in their aerial act.
The Zeno Jordan Troupe, four people; Speedy, high diver; ___ Lloyd, bounding rope performer; Neilson's aerial ballet and several other acts of prominence are booked to open with the Filler Circus in Cape Town, South Africa, Dec. __.
A small circus was in a railroad wreck near ____, Tex., Nov. 7, and many of the animals escaped to the woods.
John Drohan, private secretary to James A. Bailey, of the Barnum & Bailey Circus, was asphyxiated in his room at a boarding house, No. ___ West Twenty-first Street, New York City, morning of Nov. 11. The gas was flowing from a jet intended to connect with a gas stove. In turning out the light, Drohan had accidentally opened the under stopcock, and the flow of gas was sufficient to kill him. He came from Oil City, Pa., and entered the employ of Mr. Bailey as a stenographer.
New York Clipper, November 25, 1905, p. 1025. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Great Floto Shows. This young giant of the tented amusement field in the West has been a revelation in the past, owing to its rapid growth. Next year it will attract even greater interest, owing to the elaborate arrangements that have about been completed for its coming tour. Not only will it be increased in size to a thirty car affair, but its calibre will be of even a higher standard than in former years, if such a thing can be made possible. William Sells, long famous in the circus world, will be interested, not only in an official capacity, but financially as well, and has surrounded himself with a corps of managers, agents, performers and everything to keep the name of "The Circus Beautiful" at the highest standard of excellence in arenic attainments it has so nobly earned in the past, and hopes to retain in the future. The collection of horses, always the finest in the circus business, which has been added to, has been carefully looked after. . . .
New York Clipper, December 2, 1905, p. 1050. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The ever popular combination of vaudeville and circus, known as Orrins, opens the season next month. It may be their last, as their lease runs out next year, and the government, who are the proprietors, may not give a renewal, as the ground is needed. It would be a pity if such an old institution was to die out, as Orrins seems like a part of the Mexican constitution, and the people never tire of it. It is to be hoped that the circus will erect a new home in another part of the city, and remain.
Charles A. White, having finished his tenth season in advance of Ringling Bros.' Circus, joined his wife, Claudia White, in Chicago. It is their intention to strive for joint employment during the winter.
Horner's band, Ben Horner, bandmaster, has been re-engaged for the season 1906, with Gollmar Bros.' Greatest of American Shows, making its third successive season with that organization.
Notes from Craner's New Model Show. We are touring Alabama to good business. We turn out great, but the mountains and hills are bad on the horses. We will spend Christmas at Mobile, then start back to Michigan. The roster remains the same.
Chas. A. White, of Ringling Bros. press staff, arrived in Chicago Thursday, Nov. __, direct from Meridian, Miss. This makes Mr. White's tenth year with the World's Greatest Shows, and he has signed contracts with the same firm for next season. . . .
Ed. and Lulu Roberts are touring Mexico with the Norris & Rowe Shows.
Ripple Show notes. We have closed for the season, after twenty-three weeks of fair business, and will winter in our old quarters at Frankfort, Ind. Eight of last season's people are already booked. We will use a little larger outfit next season, and make the same route as we have made the past eight seasons.
Chas. H. Tinney, of Memphis, Mo., the past season leader of the Sells & Downs Circus band, has been re-engaged for season of 1906. He will spend part of this winter in Hot Springs, Ark.
Mrs. Masie Lano is a patient in St. Joseph's Hospital, at Atlanta, Ga. Mr. Lano has booked the animal act for the present with the Miles Orton Southern Shows, and will also represent the legal adjuster for the winter with the Orton Show.
Owing to a change in his business arrangements, Captain Keller and his American Zouave Girls did not sail for France Nov. 23, as intended. They sail Nov. 30, for Mexico, for an extended engagement with the Orrin Bros. Circus.
Bert Silver writes: "This is our sixth week on the Star Lecture Course. We are booked solid to May 1 in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and Oklahoma; then we return to our headquarters, Standish, Mich. We open our circus season May 15, with a much larger show than we ever carried before. We have return dates in nearly every town visited since Oct. 2."
Harry Smith, who was believed to have been connected with the Sells & Downs Circus in some capacity, died at the City Infirmary, Montgomery, Ala., Nov. 18, from pneumonia, aged about forty years.
New York Clipper, December 16, 1905, pp. 1101, 1113. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Thos L. Finn & Co.'s New United Shows. This show will open May 1, 1906. Everything will be new and bright, and carpenters and painters are hustling daily, getting the outfit in shape. From the present outlook at winter quarters, we will be ready for business several weeks before the birds sing. A new band wagon, two advance wagons, and a ticket wagon have just been completed. Four more ponies were received last week, and are already under instruction. About thirty head of stock will be carried. A sixty foot big top, with two thirty foot middle pieces, side show top, ___, with ten new paintings, and a swell line of special paper will be used. The band will be a feature. The following people have signed for the season: . . . Leslie Smith, in charge of second advance . . . Will Brennan, boss canvas man; Robt. Gordon, manager of side show; Sylvester Newman, manager of concert; John Ray Dee, contortion and juggling; Emma Gordon, flying rings; Frank Fitzgerald, clown and revolving ladder; Herman's troupe of educated dogs . . . Harry Mathews, Bert Snyder and several others.
George D. Starr, general manager for Barnum & Bailey, sailed Nov. 25, to arrange for the transportation of the Balerie des Machines from Paris to New York.
Albert Gaston, the veteran singing and talking clown, is wintering in Schenectady, N.Y.
The Zechs (Curvin and Nellie), aerialists, are re-engaged with the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows for next season, this making their third year with this show.
The St. Leon Family of acrobats and equestrians sailed from New York, Dec. 8, for Havana, Cuba, to join Pubillones' Circus for an engagement of ten weeks.
Notes from the Greater Norris & Rowe Show. Members of this show who arrived in Chicago from Benson, Ariz. consisted of: the Seven Marvelous Belfords, Four Flying Banvards, Melnotte, Lanole and Melnotte, Mr. and Mrs. Holland, J. J. McNulty, Wm. Brown and Dave Muir, all of whom were members of the Norris & Rowe Show last season. This Belford Troupe are booking dates for this season.
At the close of Campbell Bros.' season, Col. J. C. O'Brien presented John McDonald with a handsome and substantial testimonial. It consisted of a beautiful ribbon, upon which were printed words of the highest commendation for ability and faithfulness. Attached to it was a gold certificate of the fifty dollar denomination. Everybody was pleased, as the recipient was very popular with all.
Notes from La Mont Bros.' winter quarters. La Mont Bros. & Low's Show closed after a very successful season at Greenville, Ill., Oct. 20, and pulled into their fine winter quarters at Salem, Ill., a distance of fifty miles. Their quarters have been greatly enlarged during the past summer, so that everything can be properly taken care of. All the cages were unloaded and stock was housed in their large stock barns. Feed was stored for the winter, carpenters, wagon and harness makers were set to work in earnest, as everything must be fresh and new. While the show was en route the past season it did not show to a losing week, having played Indiana, Ohio, Michigan and Illinois. We were out twenty-four weeks and would have closed a week later, but on account of high water, were compelled to cancel the last weeks' dates. The cub lions that were born during the summer are fine and dandy. Ring and work stock came in looking swell. Prof. Dan Buckley and his band of fifteen pieces, were re-engaged for next season, having signed contracts before the show closed. The management is highly pleased with the past season's business, so much so that they expect to add at least ten or twelve more cages and tableaux wagons for their opening next Spring, making one of the largest wagon shows on the road. Next season, when the show pulls out, everything will be new, from bale ring to ring stake. All canvas will be greatly enlarged, a new Baker big top - 80, with two 30's, Kid top 40, with a 30 dressing and cook tents, all new. Taking it all together one car readily see that it is a real circus, and with its roster of over one hundred people they expect to do the business. Should prosperity follow, as it has done in the past, a more elaborate showing is in store for its many patrons. The band and street parade has been and always will be, a feature of La Mont Bros.' Shows.
Wenona and Frank write: "The season of the Pawnee Bill Show closed in Malden, Mo., Nov. 4, and we have since then been out in the swamps of Southern Missouri, resting and hunting. There are plenty of deer and wild turkey here, and we have no trouble getting all we want to eat with our rifles. Wenona has entirely recovered from the injury she recieved from her horse falling."
Lew Graham has closed a pleasant and successful season, and is now resting at his winter home in Philadelphia. He is re-engaged for 1906 with the Ringling Bros., as manager of museum and side shows.
The Great Floto Shows and Circus are making preparations for going out next season on a greatly elaborated scale, remodeled and strengthened with big feature acts. The management intends to make these shows the equal of any similar organization of the first class in the world. The shows winter quarters are at Denver.
The Benevolent Order of American Tigers, Jungle No. 1, held their half yearly election of officers in Bridgeport, Conn., Nov. 19, 1905, when the following were elected: President, Wm. O'Hara, vice president, John McLaughlin; grand treasurer, Chas. Hutchinson; treasuerer, Chas. Stock; financial secretary, Mal. Denman; recording secretary, H. J. Mooney; sergeant at arms, John Foley; trustees - John Burke, Geo. Beyea, Larry Egan, Geo. Fisher and Ed. Schaeffer. After the business of the lodge we had a very enjoyable evening.
Notes from Buffalo Bill's Wild West and Congress of Rough Riders of the World. We closed our twenty-third annual tour at Marseilles, France, Sunday, Nov. 12, where the members of the company were treated to a grand banquet by caterer D. Ballard, on the closing day. We are having the novel experience of wintering under canvas at Marseilles. Manager Fred Bailey Hutchinson is personally superintending the reconstruction of the paraphernalia, and the show will re-open very early in the new year. Col. Cody, who is looking and feeling splendidly, after such a long season, with his faithful lieutenant, Jule Keene, and general agent Clarence L. Dean, sailed for America Nov. 15, from Cherbourg, France. Bill McCune, who combines the position of chief usher with that of Indian agent, has been a prominent member of Col. Cody's staff since the beginning of the Wild West, at Omaha, Neb., in 1883. He sailed for America Nov. __, from Geva, Italy, with the Indians, Mexicans, U. S. Cavalry, life savers and artillery. Most of the principals have been re-engaged for next year's tour, and as the "lay off" will be a short one, the majority of them will winter here. Press agent Frank Small is making a tour of Italy; Charles Eldridge Griffin, who has been re-engaged as manager of privileges, takes his own company to Algiers and Morocco; Jake Posey is in winter quarters with the draught stock. "Si" Compton has charge of the ring horses, and John Eberle is general superintendent. John says" "All we have to do when we wake up Sunday morning, is to guy out the winter quarters." Equestrian director Johnnie Baker will sail for America in a few days. The show was out thirty-two weeks, gave four hundred and forty-three consecutive performances (including Sundays), and traveled 6,201 miles in France.
New York Clipper, December 23, 1905, p. 1129. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. Enlarged to nearly double its former size, with an entirely new spread of canvas, the New Model will be scarcely recognized by its last year's followers, when they answer the Spring roll call. Five new wagons are nearly ready for the painters, among them one of the finest open dens ever constructed for a wagon show, to be used for our untamable lion act, which will be the feature of the side show. In this department we will also exploit another novelty in the shape of a farmyard museum, a collection of freak animals, including two headed sheep, three legged rooster and web-footed pig, all alive. The big show performance will be augmented by the addition of a new spectacular entree, entitled "The Queen of Nations," the costumes, etc. for which will surpass anything ever seen with any but the largest shows. Leon Yeaton will have charge of the advance forces, using three wagons, and all special paper. F. J. Frink will act as assistant manager, and also look after any opposition that may come our way. Geo. Wood will be superintendent; Horace Prentiss, boss property man, and Jack Crawford, in charge of animals. Our season will open about May 1.
Punch Wheeler writes: "The Great Sells & Floto Shows, Consolidated, is the title of a new tented enterprise for 1906, that will enter the circus field for public favor. Dr. J. Martin Potter has brought from Europe to add to the already extensive menagerie, the following animals: two Siberian tigers, the first ever brought to this country; one leopard, two hyenas, two polar bears, one African lioness with three cubs, one Russian bear, one big brown bear, four white Russian deer, one African antelope, one large red deer, a male axis deer, ___, twenty beautiful, large parrots, and a baby hippo. These animals arrived in splendid condition and were at once expressed from New York to the steam heated winter quarters, at Denver, Col. Several new cages are being built, and the entire canvas will be new. New rolling stock throughout will be used next season. . . ."
Notes from Geo. S. Ely's Big Shows. We opened at Paducah, Ky., April 22, and have done the biggest business in the history of the show. We showed Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Indian Territory, and are now in Texas. We will remain out all winter and are doing donw to the gulf. The following is the complete roster: Geo. S. Ely and educated bulls, goats, horses and mules; Vic Tripplet, principal singing and talking clown; Madame Tripplet, contortionist; Wm. Mitchell, comedian; Scott ___ and single trapeze and clown. The concert consists of Mr. and Mrs. Tripplet, Mrs. Geo. S. Ely and William Mitchel. The band is under the leadership of William ___. We are packing them nightly, and two-thirds remain for the concert. "The ghost" and the Old Reliable are regular weekly visitors.
Notes from the Floto Shows. There was quite a surprise in store for the visiting delegates to the fourth annual convention of Bill Posters and Billers' National Alliance, when the Sells-Floto Shows invited them to a banquet at the Savoy Hotel, in Denver, recently, and that a pleasant evening was spent goes without saying. . . . . The delegates gathered at about 6:30 in the evening, and were welcomed by Otto Floto, Frank Tammen and Geo. Heiser. No sooner were the visitors seated then the orchestra played the "Floto Welcome March," composed for this occasion by Fred Jewell, and then Otto Floto made an address, the substance being that the Great Sells-Floto Shows wanted at all time to have the member of this growing organization feel that there was a tie of friendship existing between them which he hoped would never be severed. "No one more than the men behind the Sells-Floto Shows realize the necessity of the 'knights of the paste brush' in connection with the tented amuseument enterprises of this country. They are essential to each other, and for that reason ought to strain every effort to cement all ties, and each should strive to protect the other's interest." Mr. Floto then apologized for the absence of William Sells, and closed by saying: "Billy is with you in spirit if not in flesh, tonight." President Joseph replied with very appropriate remarks, thanking the Floto Shows for their kindness toward the organization, and hoped that for years to come the same pleasant relations that now exist between them would continue. Frank Tammen then dwelt on the good of the order and hoped it would always be conducted in the fair manner that its past record shows. Three cheers and a tiger for the Floto Shows brought the banquet to a close.
New York Clipper, December 30, 1905, p. 1152. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Musical Brown Bros., after closing thirty-three successful weeks with the Ringling Bros.' Circus, state that they are booked solid by the Western Vaudeville Managers' Association. They return to the Ringling Show in the Spring, with three people in the act, for the concert, and cornet and clarionet soloists in concert band.
The annual conventon of the N. A. B. P. and B. of A. was held in Denver, Col., week ending Dec. 9 . . . One of the most important subjects brought up for consideration was the wage scale of bill posters engaged with traveling circuses. This was placed in the hands of the circus committee. The scale of wages that prevailed last year is considered too low. . . .
Jack Cousins and Lottie Aymar have been engaged for the opening of the Hippodrome, in Washington, D.C., for their equestrian acts.
Notes from the Sautelle & Welsh Bros.' Shows. Messrs. Sautelle & Welsh have dissolved partnership, dividing the property. Mr. Sautelle getting the band wagon and calliope. He also retained the new baggage wagons, new stock and flat cars, new harness and all the animals, including the four elephants and the cages. The only show stuff that Sautelle owns now was all brand new in 1904.
Col. Frederick Cummins writes that he has exhibited his Wild West and Indian Congress for many years at such places as the Omaha Exposition, Pan-American, Madison Square Garden, World's Fair, St. Louis, 1904, and White City, Chicago, 1905, but has never been on the road and traveled as Wild Wests and circuses do. He will have built two complete trains of cars - a brand new outfit. The Walter L. Main winter quarters have been leased for a term of years, where preparations are already being made for this modern institution. While the winter quarters will be at Geneva, O., Col. Cummins will remain at his new home, in Chicago, until near Spring. The Wild West will be represented at present in New York by W. W. Power, who will be secretary and treasurer. Mr. Power's headquarters will be at the Hippodrome, New York City. The big concern will be represented in Cincinnati by Col. W. C. Ferguson, general agent, who has offices at 127 East Eighth Street, Cincinnati. The capital stock of this institution has all been subscribed. It will also be managed by men of recognized merit in the circus world. The new enterprise will play the principal cities in the United States and a great many week stands. The seating capacity has all been ordered, with foot rests for all seats, the very latest pattern of the new style lights will be used, every car in the train will have the latest conveniences and appliances, and no detail will be lacking.
Notes from the Walter L. Main winter quarters. During the past summer the entire winter quarters and different farms have been put in first class condition. The buildings have been painted red, with the exception of the new brick winter quarters; the gas well has been pumped out, and not time or money has been spared to make them the most convenient and commodious winter quarters in America, and their owner thinks they are the best for the following reasons: They are only one hour's ride from Cleveland, they are only five minutes' trolley ride from the beautiful villiage of Geneva, the electric car line passes the doors of the winter quarters, the Nickel Plate Railroad runs through the farm, about a half mile from the winter quarters buildings, and the Lake Shore (now the New York Central lines) also passes directly through Mr. Main's farms and connects with Main's siding at the quarters. Large an ample train sheds will be erected this winter. Mr. Main is also building a model private stable at his residence in the village. On Dec. 11 Walter L. Main purchased the controlling interest in the First National Bank, Geneva.
1906
New York Clipper, January 20, 1906, pp. 1228, 1229. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Eugene A. Welker, cornettist, closed a successful season of forty-six weeks with James Shelby's Show, at Jemison, Ala., Dec. 16. He went home to spend the holidays.
Many of the big circus men have formed an association for the securing of wild animals, and expect the co-operation of some of the great museums of the world.
The Ringling Brothers have engaged Fred Zobedie, the Onri Family and Skatinelli for next season.
Prof. Perrino, lion tamer, has signed for next season with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows.
The offices of Pawnee Bill's Wild West Shows have at the present time an air of activity, preparing for the next campaign. Edward C. Kempp, the general agent, is looking after the printing. John D. Carey has been engaged again as press agent, and, with a competent staff of assistants, will soon start the preliminary work by booming the special features engaged for this season. O. J. Krause, the general manger, will gaain be at the wheel to adjust our licenses and legal business. His success in this particular line is without a parallel. H. G. Wilson will have charge of the side show and concert, and, with C. H. Gilbertson, will have charge of the privileges. Chas. Evans will again have charge of the stock. The show will be greatly enlarged in all department, and all our old seats will be discarded. The grand stand seats will be folding chairs, a new style of reserved seats will be used, and our seating capacity will be greatly enlarged. We will play only the larger cities. The programme will be greatly changed by the addition of a number of attractions that have never been attempted by traveling one day stand shows. Wenona and Frank have remained all winter at Malden, Mo. (where we closed last year), perfecting an act upon which they have worked for years, and which promises to be the most novel and sensational shooting act ever produced, in which Wenona will use a magazine rifle and execute the most rapid target shooting ever attempted. Wagon builders have a contract for a number of new parade tableaux for the Great Far East section of the parade. May Lillie is breaking in a wonderful menage act, which will be one of the new attractions.
D. H. Lano and wife, Mazie Lano, closed their tenting season at Plant City, Fla., Dec. 26, with the Call & Rogers Show. They are engaged for next season with the Great Wallace Shows, making the second season with the show. Mrs. Lano is booked solid in vaudeville until April 15, with her comedy animals, opening at the Metropolitan Theatre, ___ City, La., Dec. 25. Mrs. Lano has recovered from an attack of typhoid fever.
Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show will remain abroad for another year, and will open in Marseilles, Fr., next March, afterward touring Italy, Germany, Hungary, Holland, Austria and Belgium.
Rays from Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Railroad Shows new in winter quarters at Savannah, Ga. Our fourteenth season ended at St. Augustine, Fla., Dec. 30, and this also ended our second year as a railroad show, both of which have been very satisfactory to the management. The show will not be enlarged, but will be improved in every way, and when we open in March, we can safely say, it is the swellest nine car show ever organized. For the season of 1906 the advance force will be as follows: Pete Sun, general agent and railroad contractor; C. S. Clarke, contracting agent; Geo. B. Beckley, car manager; Jack Bledsoe, checker up; Bert Moore, boss bill poster, with fourteen men. Orrin Hollis has been engaged as principal somersault rider, and also act as equestrian director; Walter Ashburn has signed for his third season as elephant and pony trainer; Mlle. Ashburn and her high school horse; Laniberto, novelty wire; Herr John Miller, flexible marvel; Chas. Johnson, bounding somersault rope; Milfred Marion, hand equilibrist; Dan Randall, principal clown; Robt. M. Pierce, clown and concert specialties; Chas. Lanore, musical act and calliopist; Prof. Silvers, Punch and magic; Geo. Sun Jr., pony rider and two horse carrying act, assisted by Orrin Hollis; Rose Hollis, lady principal rider; Sun Bros., jugglers; Four Richards, marvelous Indian club sensation, and Josie Brown, flying ladder and Roman rings. We have other big feature acts in consideration. John Shelley, band master, and the following musicians have signed: Chas. ___, Arthur Bryant, C. F. Brown, John Dousch, Y. Gratton, Y. Chapman, J. H. Badger, Harry Knight, R. A. Simpson, J. L. Dock, Jack Bailey, and others in consideration. Negotiations are pending for one of the largest band organs ever used under canvas. This will be used in the family theatre. J. C. Cherry has charge of the winter quarters, Joe Quinlan will handle the big canvas, Frank W. Neill will have the side show canvas, J. D. Singleterry, boss property man; Dr. F. A. Smith, V. S.; Bill Randolph, in charge of the ring stock; Lew Williams, train master; Johnny Parker, privilege manager, and Jack Benson, in charge of wardrobe. Everything is comfortably housed (animals and horses), the workshops are in full blast, and the ring barn will be in operation the latter part of January. The weather is very moderate and pleasant for this time of year, although we had four weeks of rain just before we closed. For 1906 our line of paper will be all special and entirely new. We will aslo have an entire new spread of canvas, using a five pole big top. The Sun Brothers, Pete and George, are looking forward to a prosperous season.
Fred A. Hodgson sailed for Mexico, Jan. 11. Among the people engaged who left on same steamer were Hassan Ben Ali's Arabs and Gertrude Ballatzer.
J. T. Carrier, equilibrist, has signed for the season 1906 with the Hagenbeck Show.
Horace Webb, clown and gymnast, who was the past two seasons with the Ringling Brothers' World's Greatest Shows, has signed for next year with the Hagenbeck Show. Besides doing his novelty aerial act, he will be one of the producing clowns with that show.
Mlle. Hilda has joined Shipp's Indoor Circus for the season, and reports meeting with success. Next season she goes out again with Pain's "Port Arthur" Co.
Notes from winter quarters of Bonheur Bros.' Show. The educated pony, "June Bug," that has entertained the young and old of this part of Oklahoma and Central and Western Kansas, by his many tricks, some of them nearly as intelligent as those performed by human beings, died last week while out with their house show. All attention at the winter quarters is now turned toward the education of "Carmen," the tiny pony that was named after this town. J. R. Bonheur says that it shows an aptness for learning tricks that will make it even superior to "June Bug." This week the miniature cow, at Bonheur Bros. Show quarters, gave birth to a little heifer calf not much larger than a jack rabbit. It is quite a curiosity, and we are confident that it is the smallest piece of animated beef we have ever seen.
Prof. Will T. Miller has again signed as manager of the annex with Al. F. Wheeler's Shows, his second season in this capacity with the show. The line up in his department will be as follows: Prof. Miller, Punch, magic and knee figures; Mrs. W. T. Miller, second sight and trunk mystery; Mme. Elnora, fire queen; Prof. Perrino, untamable lion act; Mlle. Cleo, snake hypnotist; Perrino's canine mathematician, a farmyard museum of freak animals, and five cages of small animals.
Mrs. Geo. Jennier Sr. and sons (Walter and Roy) are spending the winter with the Millettes, on their farm and winter quarters, at Greensboro, Ga.
From Cummins' Wild West. Col. Fred C. Cummins arrived in Geneva this week, and remains there a greater part of the winter. He will have a desk at Walter Main's office. W. E. Ferguson, general agent, commenced work for that exhibition Jan. 1, Mr. Ferguson is also doing business at Main's office. Fifty men started to work for Cummins' Wild West, at Main's winter quarters, Jan. 1.
Oscar Lowande returned to Reading, Mass., from New York City, with two fine horses. He is breaking them for the ring, at his ring barn in Reading. He goes back with the Forepaugh & Sells Bros. Circus for next season. It making his eighth season with the above show.
Bert Shanklin, contortionist, has closed a successful engagement with the Reno & Alvord Indoor Circus, and is taking a short vacation at Hot Springs.
Notes from the Jones & Adams New Century Shows. Everybody is busy at our winter quarters, painters, carpenters and blacksmiths changing the show from a carnival company into a circus. Messrs. Jones & Adams are North, buying more new cars, and all of the tents will be brand new. They will also buy more hay eating animals, to strengthen their animal show. The show will cover all of the old towns and a lot of new ones.
H. I. Ellis has signed with the advance staff of the John Robinson Show.
H. Stanley Lewis will control the advertising privileges with the Col. Cummins Wild West next season. Mr. Lewis is now at the headquarters of the show at Geneva, O., and will superintend the decorative embellishments of the show.
Harry Burton, magician, writes: "I have signed with the Great Wallace Show, to do magic and illusions, assisted by my wife. I claim to be the first to introduce 'irvitation' in a side show, where I do not depend upon darkness for effect. This is my own original idea, and I can work in daylight as well as at night."
William Selbini writes: "V. Pubillonies, manager of the Grand Circo, in Cuba, gave a supper, with all kinds of wine, etc., Christmas night, for all his company. The water pantomime was a big success, and everything is going finely. We are not going to Mexico, but are going to remain with Pubillones the rest of the season."
Edward Bailey, eldest brother of James A. Bailey, circus man, died Jan. 12, at his home, near Holly, Mich., from pneumonia. He was about sixty years of age, and had retired from business.
New York Clipper, February 10, 1906, pp. 1294, 1296, 1309. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from E. G. Smith's Colossal Shows and Trained Animal Exposition. Everybody about winter quarters is busy from daylight 'till dark, and by April 19 the entire outfit of the "Little Giant" will be in the best of condition. Two new baggage wagons have already been built, and are awaiting the paint brush, and the floor of the wagon shop contains the skeleton of a fine miniature cage for our Shetland pony team. Our new band wagon is at the station, and will be brought out to winter quarters. We are daily expecting the arrival of our band uniforms, driver's coats, horse plumes and the parade paraphernalia. In the ring barn the ring stock is going through various stunts daily, and the various new pupils are learning rapidly. The season of 1906 will see this one of the best equipped sixteen horse show in our section of territory. Every wagon, except the cook house and pole wagons, are parade wagons, and no expense will be spared to make our parade one of the flashiest, for its size, in America. . . . The business staff remains the same as in the past five years. E. G. Smith, general manager; Mrs. E. G. Smith, treasurer; J. J. Ray Dee, assistant manager, and Keller Iseminger, general agent.
Col. Frederick T. Cummins' Wild West Exhibition Co. is now nicely ensconced in commodious offices at Geneva, O. Some thirty-five clerks, stenographers, and other employees, including Walter L. Main, Col. Frederick T. Cummins, W. E. Fergerson, general agent; W. W. Power, secretary and treasurer, are at their respective desks, arranging all the details of the big Wild West Exhibition for the season of 1906. It has the appearance of a large banking house. At the winter quarters can be found more than one hundred people, comprising wagon makers, blacksmiths, carpenters, painters, hostlers, etc. There are also a herd of twelve trained elephants, camels, lions, tigers, leopards, pumas, birds, etc. About thirty-six cars are now taking on the bright colors, and this will be the largest Wild West exhibition on wheels in 1906.
Mlle. Amy has been engaged for the Hagenbeck Show for next season, to do her sword swallowing act.
George Burtch just closed a season of thirty-eight weeks in advance of the F. E. Griswold Show, and is resting on his farm at Deseronto, Can. Leon W. Washburn was the guest of Mr. Burtch at Deseronto Jan. 10.
Andy Burtch, the past two seasons with the John H. Sparks Shows, is a patient at the Y. M. C. A., Buffalo, under treatment for rheumatism, and is getting along nicely. He expects to be able to resume work shortly.
James A. Bailey was in New York and at his office Jan. 19. He announced that the circus would open at Madison Square Garden some time between March 10 and 20.
William Gilman writes that he has signed as local contracting agent for the Campbell Bros. Shows, for the season of 1906.
George Wood is re-engaged as superintendent with the Al. F. Wheeler's Shows, his second season in this capacity with the New Model.
Chas. P. Watson has signed with Frank A. Robbins for next season.
Sun rays. The Sun Bros. have engaged the following additional people: Smiletta Family, seven in number; also the Three Despas, Ed. Kingsland, trombone; Al. Cornell, W. O. Mack, Harmon Calloway, H. E. Baylor, Carl E. Swin, Eugene H. Barry, Leo Collins, E. J. Kelly, Anderson L. Haley, and Henry Sylvester, advertiser. In the ring barn we find Orrin Hollis breaking in some new horses and new equestrian acts, and Walter Ashburn, breaking in some new animal acts. Two new sixty foot cars have been ordered, and the rest of our rolling stock is in the car shops, where it will be overhauled, which will make our entire train practically new. Pete Sun, better known in Savannah as "Uncle Pete," visits the winter quarters daily, in his new automobile.
O. V. Burr, musical director the past two seasons with the Seibel Bros.' Dog and Pony Show, has signed with the show again for next season. He is having excellent success in securing musicians, and expects to have a fine band of twelve or fourteen men. Some of the musicians who were with him the past two seasons have signed for next season, which is evident of good treatment to them, on the part of the management, as well as at the hands of Prof. Burr.
Ernie Houghton will be superintendent of transportation the coming season for the Hagenbeck Show. Our types recently gave Mr. Houghton's name as Houston.
Floyd Bernard, equilibrist, last season with Ringling Bros. Shows, has been re-engaged for next season. At present Mr. Bernard is appearing in vaudeville, under the direction of the International Theatrical Co., and is booked solid until March 24.
The Ty-Bell Sisters are meeting with success with the Orrin Circus in Mexico.
Lon Williams, for several years press representative of the Gentry Shows, will this season be the general agent of the No. 1 Gentry Show. He is in New York at present doing the press work for a Broadway attraction . . . Instead of sending three or four shows on tour, as has been their custom for years, the Gentrys will have only two exhibitions on tour this year. Both shows will open early, and they will be much larger and more pretentious. J. D. Newman will be in advance of the No. 2 Show.
Notes from Gay's One Horse Circus. We take to the road May 10. Our winter quarters are at ___, Ia. We will carry eighteen head of stock, and twenty-five people.
C. J. Sassari has been engaged for the Great Sells & Floto Show for next season, and will close his Electric Theatre, in Bellaire, O., April 1.
John J. Crone, secretary and auditor of John Robinson's Ten Big Shows, has been in New York City, completing arrangements for the three premier features of next season.
Washburn & D'Alma's Show will open the season April 9, at Richmond, Va.
B. L. Bowman writes: "I have closed a contract to manage the vaudeville side show with the Hagenbeck Greater Shows for the season of 1906, and will have one of the largest and finest side shows ever organized. Will use 70ft. canvas, with three 40ft. middle pieces, and carry forty-five people. Seigmund Bock, of Chicago, is building the front of eighteen double-deck paintings, designed by me, and which will be one of the largest and finest fronts ever put up."
Rose Maretta, high balancing trapeze, and her daughters, Miss Edna and Miss Irene, contortion and flying ladder, are engaged for the Norris & Rowe Circuses for the coming season.
Notes from Howard Bonheur's Oklahoma Indoor Show and C. W. Field's Trained Stock Show. During the past six weeks these two newly organized enterprises have been making an experimental tour, with unbounded success. The financial success has, however, been accompanied by several misfortunes that have no connection with the steady growth of good business. During the first week Mr. Bonheur had the misfortune to lose the trained pony, Junebug, who died of a peculiar heart and lung disease while under the medical care of an expert veterinary. Then Coxie, the champion high leaping hound, suddenly died from an unknown cause. Fritz Junior got badly mixed up in a fight with the rest of the troupe of trained dogs.
At a recent meeting of the directors of the Cummins Wild West Exhibition Co. of Geneva, O., Walter L. Main was elected president; Col. F. T. Cummins, vice president, and W. W. Power, secretary and treasurer.
The St. Leon Family of acrobats and equestrians, who signed with Pubillones Circo, in Havana, Cubs, for ten weeks, had their contract extended for six weeks longer, making a season of sixteen weeks. Elsie St. Leon is the first female somersault rider that has visited Cuba. The show is doing big business. After closing here we go direct to the winter quarters of the Great Wallace Shows.
"Blind Billy," once known as a clever clown of Barnum's Circus, while his sister was the "fat lady," weighing six hundred and eighty-seven pounds, was burned out Feb. _. He kept a news stand at Mulberry, Elm and Bleecker Streets, New York. The fire originated from the oil stove being accidentally knocked over. . . .
New York Clipper, February 17, 1906, p. 1339. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Frank H. Reynolds Dog and Monkey Circus. We are touring the cities and larger towns of Maine. Business is the best this company has ever experienced. We turned people away at Oakland, Skowhegan and Waterville. We were engaged for the benefit of the Redmen's order at Lewiston for one full week, and had a big week's business. The roster: Frank H. Reynolds, proprietor and manager; Geo. A. Fox, comedian; Dora Dean (Mrs. F. H. Reynolds), buck and wing dancer; Sanford, juggler, Johnson's royal marionettes, Frank H. Reynold's dogs and monkeys, sixteen in number. Our band leader, Prof. Martin, was called to his home in Dayton, O., to attend the funeral of his father. Clarionet player Gus Brown is leading the band of twelve pieces during his absence. Mrs. Frank H. Reynolds leaves for Manchester, N.H., to get things in readiness for our summer season under canvas. Our new sixty foot round top and thirty foot middle piece was shipped last week. We open our summer season at Burlington, Vt., playing three night stands through Vermont and New York State. Jake Somers will have charge of the advance.
Tody Hamilton, the well known press agent of Barnum & Bailey Circus, will take a vacation from his duties after the middle of April, and will be succeeded by Harvey Watkins, who was with the company last season. Willard Coxey remains in his old position, seven days ahead, and Dan ___ stays as press representative with the show.
The Orrin Bros. Circus returned to City of Mexico, Jan. 22, and opened 24, to good business, despite the extremely cold weather, which is unusual for that country. Manager Fred A. Hodgson is with the show.
Albert Gaston, singing and talking clown, was a Clipper caller recently, and he wishes to announce that he has signed with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Show.
Notes from Mackay's European Circus. Our show next season, consisting to two rings and an elevated stage, will inaugurate its sixth year at Detroit, Mich., May __, and will present many new and novel changes. The side show and all privileges are advertised for sale. As usual European headline celebrities will be the feature. All the principal people are now engaged, and include . . . Maude and Lillian Burbank, equestriennes . . . the Martines, the La Roys, Tommy Hayes . . . Clark and ___, Burt Wiggins, the trained horse, "Dynamo," Leslie's troupe of dogs, the Lewises, Auto-Calliope, and Howard's troupe of trained stallions. Dr. M. Du Crow, equestrian director, W. R. Fowler, bandmaster; Jack Doyle, master of canvas and train, and Andrew Mackay, manager.
___ Kidder has been signed by W. H. Gardner for the advance of the Hagenbeck Show for the coming season.
Chas. O. Morrison, contortion, gymnast and clown, has signed with the Van Amburg Circus.
Frank and Albright have been engaged for the Madison Square Garden, N.Y., engagement of the Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth. They have signed with Col. Hugh Harrison for the tenting season, with the Great Adam Forepaugh & Sells Brothers Circus.
New York Clipper, February 24, 1906, p. 7. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Mr. and Mrs. Crosby, of the Wallace Circus, who are spending the winter at their home . . . The Crosbys have signed with the Wallace Shows again this season.
Roy M. Feltus has been engaged for another season as assistant manager of the Forepaugh-Sells Shows, and will report for duty at Columbus, O., March 1.
Fillis' Circus opened its season in Cape Town South Africa, Dec. 26, 1905, most successfully, the crowds thronging all portions of the auditorium. Lieut. ___ appeared again as the lion tamer. Hugh Lloyd performed on the cord elastique, with the aid of any balancing pole. Mr. Fillis appeared with his horses, accompanied by Mrs. Fillis. Zeno, Jordan and Zeno, on the flying trapeze, did some excellent work. Provo met with great approval in his juggling. The Frebal Bros. caused plenty of laughter. . . . "Aga" caused wonderment by apparent suspension in midair, minus supports. Kenney P. Speedy, the sensational diver, closed the performance by his dive from a height of one hundred and twenty feet, into a tank of water, four feet deep.
Robert Stickney and wife returned to America Feb. 12, from South America, where they had been filling a four month's engagement with Frank Brown's Circus through the Argentine Republic. Mr. and Mrs. Stickney have signed with the Great Wallace Show for next season.
The Cliffords, sword swallowers, and James Morris, elastic skin man, have signed with the Great Wallace Shows for next season.
John Fettus, who was with the advance of Ringling Bros. Shows last season, is now advance agent of Shipp's Indoor Circus, which has been doing a good business in the large towns of Illinois, and goes to Iowa next week. Shipp's season closes about the middle of March, when he goes with the Hagenbeck Show.
Steve and Ida Miaco, of Miaco and Idalene and Stella Corinne are engaged with the Barnum & Bailey Circus.
New York Clipper, March 3, 1906, p. 47. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Sells-Floto Shows, Consolidated. A very fine list of arena talent has been secured the coming season. Among the many celebrities engaged and contracted for are: the Potter Family, Kittie Krueger and Blanche Hilliard, equestriennes; Harry ___, Clemmings and McAlister, C. Sassaria, with his rooster act; the Famous Ty-Bells, the Alpine Family of three women and one man, Lew F. Sunlin, with his trained bulls; De Carlo and ___, and Frank Maynard, clowns . . . Herbert, the frog man; Clara Reuel, menage rider; John Carroll, equestrian director; Christ Zeitz, superintendent of the menagerie; Park Prentiss, bandmaster, with thirty men, and Fred Jewell, calliope player. New engagements have lately been made with others, including Cecilla Fortuna and Hazel Earl, Wm. Marks, the Martell Family of five, bicycle and wire act; John Albion, principal clown, and Prince Mungo.
Notes from Younger Bros. Wild West. Capt. W. O. (Billy) Nichols, "the Napolean of all animal trainers," has been engaged by manager Clark for the coming season. Capt. Nichols is now at winter quarters in Oklahoma, and has in preparation an act that will undoubtedly stand alone next season, as it is the only act of its kind yet attempted. It consists of twenty-five long horned Texas steers being educated to perform one of the most difficult feats so far attempted by any animal trainer. Special paper has been ordered, featuring Capt. Nichols and his educated steers, and it will be the plan of the management to give this act as much publicity in the rural districts as possible, calling the attention of the farmers and stock raisers to the fine breed of cattle and the difficult feats they perform. The steers are from the famous ___ ranch of Younger Brothers, which is considered as one of the ___ and best equipped "outfits" in the Territory.
De Carlo and Stokes write: ". . . we again open with the Great Sells-Floto Shows, to produce our new and novel aerial bar act."
. . . Deadwood Dick Show, under canvas, for the coming season. The show opens at Beaumont Tex., March _, carrying two cars and forty people, including Arizona Joe's famous Cowboy Band. . . .
Ted Hill writes that he has signed with Campbell Bros. Circus to play the calliope for the coming season. The calliope is a new one, and one of the finest on the road, having a range of thirty-two keys. After a visit with his parents at Peck, Kan., he will leave for Fairbury, Neb., which is Campbell's headquarters. After the summer season he will be seen in vaudeville with his brother and sister (Hayward and Hayward).
The winter quarters of Dave W. Perrine, at ___, Mich. came very near being destroyed by fire on Feb. 12. . . .
New York Clipper, March 10, 1906, p. 86. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
"Al" McPhail, an old circus man and contracting agent of Hagenbeck's animal show, was stricken with apoplexy and total blindness at the Bijou Theatre, Pittsburg, Feb. 26.Later, when in the hospital, it was stated that he was somewhat improved, and that he could distinguish daylight.
James W. Beattie, who will manage the side show with the Sun Brothers' Circus during the coming season, is at present visiting at his home at Fort Wayne, Ind. Mr. Beattie lost quite a lot of his candy stand and side show property in the file of the Miles Orton Show, at Tallahassee, Fla.
A. C. Orcutt, who was superintendent for Downie's Big United Shows last season, has been engaged by the Finn & Co. New United Shows, for the same position, next season. Finn & Co., Mr. Orcutt writes, will have one of the best thirty-horse wagons shows that ever left winter quarters. Everything is brand new. We will tour the New England States, opening at Hoosick Falls, N.Y., about May 1.
John Crossett has signed with the Van Amburg Circus for the coming season, to do his high stilt walking, leaping and tumbling, also to do knockabout clown work.
Notes from La Mont's winter quarters. Chas. La Mont, general manager, has been busy for seven weeks purchasing animals for the coming season. A fine pair of African lions has just been received, and a cage of monkeys from New York, also a fine collection of birds as money could buy. Everything is progressing toward completion for the opening, April 28. Everyone is working from daylight until dark, and the stock in the ring barn is being put through their performances daily. . . . The work stock in in fine shape for the coming season. The following people have been engaged for the big show: the Delmo Family, four in number; Del Rio, Mr. and Mrs. McLain, the McMahans, Clarence McCombs, Mr. and Mrs. Kerr, Prof. Randolph, with his trained ponies, goats, monkeys and mules. People for side show: Mr. and Mrs. Porterfield, the De Alvins, and Mr. and Mrs. Luyder. Tom Evans will have charge of canvas, with "Shorty" Steel and ten assistants. Claud Morhase will be boss property man, with two assistants. Ed. Bennett has charge of all stock, with David Drake and four assistants. The advance will consist of Harry La Mont, Oscar Laughlin and three bill posters. The business staff remains the same: Chas. R. La Mont, general manager; Chas. D. Randolph, treasurer; Jake Allen, assistant manager; H. A. Cunningham, press agent. Prof. Dan Buckley and his superb band of fifteen pieces will be ready for the opening on April 28.
Notes from the Carl Hagenbeck Shows. At a meeting of the stockholders and executive staff of the Carl Hagenbeck Greater Shows, held in Cincinnati last week, final details of the organization were discussed. Among those in conference were: John Havlin, W. H. Gardner, C. Lee Williams, Frank Tate and C. M. Thompson. Mr. Gardner, the general advance manager, returned to New York immediately, at the conclusion of the meeting. Before leaving Cincinnati Mr. Gardner visited the winter quarters of the show, at Carthage, O., and carefully inspected everything on the premises. He enthused especially over the two hundred horses recently purchased, remarking that no traveling show will have their equal. The horses are all dapple greys, beautifully matched, and averaging 1,500 pounds in weight. The sixty cars are ready to leave the paint shop. The color scheme throughout is brilliant red, with lettering of white and gold, an effective combination that will give the trains a striking appearance. The various wild beasts and horses have wintered well, not a single loss having occurred. . . . Mr. Gardner has his advance forces well organized and ready for the call. No information is volunteered relative to the programme of the performances, but Mr. Gardner smilingly remarks: "Just wait and see. We are going to surprise not only the natives, but incidentally a few wiseacres." C. N. Thompson manager of the show, has removed his offices to Cincinnati, and will remain in that city until the opening, the date of which has not as yet been definitely decided.
From Cummins' Wild West. Among the many features that will be presented by Col. F. T. Cummins the coming season, in the colossal aggregation that bears his name, will be the Custer Massacre, or the Battle of the Little Big Horn, where that famous general lost his life in June, 1876. Over three hundred Indians, cowboys and frontiersmen will participate in the exciting spectacle, for which massive scenic effects are now being constructed at the winter quarters, Geneva, O. Howard W. Damon will manage the dining camp. The camp outfit will contain new canvas, stoves, cooking utensils, etc. - in fact, everything will be in keeping with the rest of the show - strictly up-to-date. Mr. Damon is busy at the winter quarters, arranging the details of this establishment. "Fighting the Flames" will be one of the spectacular features the coming season, and will be one of the most thrilling exhbitions of the art of battling with fire ever furnished the public. The exhibition will take place in the big Wild West arena. . . . The booking for our Wild West performances is now almost complete, and includes some of the best and most skilled in the Wild West line. Our fancy rifle shots, expert ropers and broncho busters are all experts. More than sixty mechanics, wagon makers, scenic artists, painters, blacksmiths and laborers are employed at the winter quarters, and it is safe to predict that April 1 will see the big Wild West ready for the road.
Geo. C. Satterlee on March 1 sold his stock in the Cummins Wild West Exhibition Co. to Walter L. Main. Mr. Satterlee and wife will leave for their home in the East soon, and will not be interested in or travel with the Cummins Wild West Exhibition Co., as Mr. Satterlee states that he has retired from business permanently.
New York Clipper, March 17, 1906, p. 114. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes From Col. M. L. Clark Combined Shows. — This show closed the longest and most successful season in its history in a blaze of glory, at Mobile, Ala., March 1. It has been a notable one in many respects. We opened March 7, a year ago, having lost but four stands, and did not have an accident of any description. We traveled 3,891 miles, and visited Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Florida and Alabama. On account of the immense crowds attending the Mardi Gras festivities we were compelled to prolong our engagement, and on Mardi Gras days gave three performances, and then were not able to accommodate them. Our elephants, camels and entire menagerie and parade were used by the Mardi Gras people in their parades, and the animals were decorated as they never were before. This is the first instance in the history of Mardi Gras that animals were used in the festivities. Hereafter our animals will be a feature of King Felix's parades during Mardi Gras, and will add greatly in assisting Mobile to sustain her title of "The Mother of Mystics." At the termination of our engagement we transferred the show to Capt. Alba's homestead, and mechanics and painters were put to work repairing, painting and regilding everything which will be retained for next season. Six new baggage wagons, four cages, a pair of leopards and a puma were received last week. A car load of draught and ring stock was also received from Col. Clark's Texas ranch. Three more new cages are in course of construction in the Sullivan & Eagle shops, and will be ready for early delivery. We will have new big menagerie, side show, cook, dressing and horse tops, all of which will be equipped with the improved lights. We open the season in Mobile, 20, and as in the past, will sustain our reputation as the largest and finest equipped circus of its kind in the world.
Notes From Cole Brothers' United Shows. — All arrangements have been made to open the season April 12, in Birmingham, Ala., and the members of the advance not already in service have been ordered to report in that city March 28. General Agent Ed. C. Knopp has been in harness several weeks, selecting and organizing his subordinates, digging up fresh territory and hurrying forward the orders in the hands of the printers. The prospecting agent has thus early covered many sections of the country, while Harry B. Potter, railroad contractor, and Walter T. Murphy, contracting agent, began work last mouth. Over fifty experienced men will make up the advance, under the efficient direction of Mr. Knupp. who has chosen the following aides: Harry E. Curtis, manager No. 1 car; Fred J. Bates, manager excursion car: C. A. Koster and G. C. Moyer, special agents; C. B. Bowers, route rider; E. N. Waters, checker up. There will be twenty-two first class men upon the initial car, the paper of which will be in care of Charles A. Martin. Robert Mathews will be in charge of the paper on the second car, which will carry twenty men. Only union bill posters and lithographers have been engaged. Eating upon the cars ahead of these shows is now a thing of the past, and it will be hotel meals exclusively for the "boys." Messrs. Moyer and Koster, who are to captain the flying opposition squadron, have each been assigned some exceedingly good men, and while no billing battles will be courted, Cole Brothers' pickets will not permit encroachment upon their rights or paper. There will be thirty-five different styles of wall and window work, all from original special designs. In fact, the advertising matter will create a surprise second only to that which Proprietor Martin J. Downs will offer as a free outside attraction back with the shows. The latter will surely excite the wonder of all managers and laymen of the show world. In that it is a sensational feature which almost any other large amusement enterprise would heavily bill and present only upon the inside of the canvas, instead of in the open air. Mlle. D'Zizzi, a young Parisian, who has been engaged for the act, has arrived in America. At the present time she is in Erie, Pa., explaining her act and in other ways aiding the artists in designing the paper to be used in advertising it.
Jas. A. Morrow, side show manager and orator for the past ten years, and connected in that capacity with the following shows: William Sells, Sells & Gray, Buckskin Bill's Wild West, Sig. Sautelle's & Welsh Bros., and Sig. Sautelle's Consolidated Shows, writes that he has tendered his resignation to the Cummins' Wild West and Indian Congress, which organization he was contracted with to handle the side shows and concerts. He left for his home at Homer, N. Y., March 12. Mr. Morrow says that he was extended every courtesy by Walter L. Main, president of the Cummins' Wild West, and Col. Frederick Cummins, director general, and that he leaves by his own desire and with the most friendly feelings on all sides.
The Keller Zouave Girls are booked with Pawnee Bill's Show for a season of thirty weeks.
Orrin Brothers' Circus celebrated its twenty-fifth anniversary in Mexico Feb. 27, with a special programme, a copy of which has been received by The Clipper. The list of attractions follows: Orchestral overture, the Nelson Troupe, eccentriques; Mr. Tessier, equilibrist; Adgie Castillo and her lions; Richard Bell, clown; Wolkowsky Troupe, orchestral offering; Loreta Trio, the Zolars, acrobats; Helen Gerard, haute ecole; . . . On Washington's Birthday the circus gave its twentieth annual benefit performance for the American Hospital, among those appearing being: Montague's Cockatoo Circus; Tessler, the Zolars, Texas and Katrina, . . . Wolkowskey Troupe, Richard Bell, Adgie and her lions, Helen Girard and Sie Hassan Ben Ali's Arabs. The statement of the hospital auditor shows that in the twenty years elapsed the total benefits receipts amount to $13,445.46. The receipts have steadily increased each year over that preceding, until last year they amounted to $1,618,.95.
Sig. Sautelle writes: "I hare sold my entire interest in the Cummins Wild West Co. to Walter L. Main, the sale and everything pertaining to the deal being entirely satisfactory to me. I sincerely believe the new organization will be a success from the start. The property I have sold them is certainly fine, all of it being new in 1905. Their stock is as good as I have ever seen with any circus, if not the best, and the property they are adding is all brand new, so I believe it will be one of the best shows on the road, and a great deal larger than the fraternity realizes. My only reason for selling is because I want to retire permanently from the business.
Notes From Freed & Perrine Show. — A. W. Freed and Dave W. Perrine have joined hands, and are putting out a ten wagon show, to be known as Freed & Perrine's New United Show, and they will make a strong bid for buainen in the wagon show field. The acting mule, Maud, will be a feature. Mr. Freed's beautifull spotted Shetlands are working in conjunction with Perrine's high school horse and poney act. Our trained animal display will be second to none. New harness, trappings and wardrobe have been added. The show opens at Winter quarters, Eaton Rapids, Mich., early in May.
Chas. Hopper, singing and talking clown and black face comedian, has signed for the coming season with Howard & Starrett's Society Circus, making the third season with . . .
Roster of the Frank A. Robbins Show, season of 1906. — Frank A. Robbins, president and general manager; Fred Beckman, treasurer and general agent; Chas. W. Sprague, secretary; Frank A. Robbins Jr., assistant manager; Chas. A. Robbins, general superintendent; . . . Mrs. Frank A. Robbins, manager candy stands; Mrs. Chas. A. Robbins, in charge of wardrobe; Winona Robbins, cashier main stand; Milton Robbins, reserved seat door tender; Dave Haley, contracting agent; Wm. Goodwin, superintendent No. 1 advertising car; Thos. Van Osten, superintendent No. 2 advertising car; Harry Hodge, manager of side show; Wm. Du Crow, equestrian director; Gennaro Marranzini, leader of band; Frenchy Haley, master of canvas; Whitey Likens, master of horses; Clint A. Graham, master of transportation; Steve Roberts, master of side show canvas; Ike Smith, master of lights; Jas. Shipman, steward and charge of main door; . . . The performers so far engaged are as follows: Jack Cousins and wife, Chas. Watson and wife, A. G. Lowande and wife, Three Herbert Bros., the Aerial Lloyds, the Ellets . . . the Aerial Weavers, Carlosa and Silverton, Edwin La Belle, Vincent C. Harig, the Belfords, Girard Leon and Jos. Marty and wife. Side show people: Margerite Still, Frank J. Hurley, C. A. Bonney, Harry Moulton, Millie Lucretia, L. E. Debonaire, Montana Frank and Montana, Soldene and Olivia, Harry Mlio and La Belle Cleo. Frank A. Robbins has left for an extended trip, first to Lancaster, Mo., then to Birmingham, Ala., via Kansas City, where he will see the opening of the Martin Downs Shows, then to Cincinnati to attend the opening of the Hagenbeck Show, coming home via Canton and Geneva, O. The Frank A. Robbins Show is practically ready for the opening, April 26.
Wm. La Rue and James G. West will go out with the Forepangh & Sells Bros.' Show this season, joining it at Columbus, O., in April.
Notes From Mansfield's Great Eastern Shows. We will open our secoud season at Tidoute, Pa., May 3, and show over our last season's route. Most of the people have been engaged. Following is the roster: Mansfield Bros., proprietors; W. J. Mansfield, manager; Tom Allen, agent, with two men; Geo. Parento, equestrian director; Frank Hanlon, band master; John Ofrion, boss canvas man, with six men; the Three Harlow Bros., Ed. Long, talking and singing clown, with his two trained donkeys, Geo. Parento, high ladder and single trapeze act; Joe Willton, wire walker, contortion and juggling; W. J. Mansfield's troupe of trained dogs, and Billy Curtiss, knockabout clown. The show will travel by wagon, using a sixty foot round top, with a thirty foot middle piece; a five pole horse tent, a 20x30 cook tent, a thirty foot round top dressing tent.
The C. O. Spangler Great Western Railroad Show, now at Winter quarters, is getting ready for its new show. Everything will be new, with a larger tent, more seats, a better show and a larger band than last season. Everything is newly painted. The show will open in its own town April 25.
Al. G. and Mazie Belford have signed with Frank A. Robbins' Circus for the coming season.
The Lucifers have signed for the season with the Barnum & Bailey Circus. They have just returned from a tour of the Philipines and China.
New York Clipper, March 24, 1906, pp. 132, 143. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Oscar Lowande writes from his winter quarters at Reading, Mass., that he has entertained a number of his relatives and friends during the past winter, among whom were: Mr. and Mrs. George M. Jackson, the Misses Beatrice, Blossom, Alice and Master Leo Jackson, all of the famous Jackson Family of bicycle riders; Martinho Lowande and wife, Alex. A. Lowande . . . Joseph La Fleur and many others. Mr. Lowande is giving shows in the winter quarters, to large crowds, three times a week, Tuesday evenings and ___ afternoons and evenings, doing a fine business, giving seven acts. The company consists of: Oscar Lowande and wife, Leo Lowande, Guy, the clown, and Mr. Whilford as ring master. The performances comprise a tournament with four horses and a donkey (which, by the way, makes a big hit), Oscar Lowande's bounding jockey act, a barrel act by Leo Lowande and Guy, the clown; a two horse carrying act, by Oscar Lowande and wife; ground tumbleing, by Leon and clown; a principal somersault act, by Oscar Lowande, with a somersault from one horse to another; a trick bicycle riding act, by Jed Galvin, finishing the programme by having some one from the audience try to ride a horse once around the ring, standing, for a five dollar bill. Mr. Lowande still has the five dollars. Mr. Lowande and company will soon leave for Columbus, O., to join the Forpaugh & Sells Bros. Circus, making his eighth season with that circus.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. At the winter quarters of this enterprise at Schenectady, N.Y., the advent of Spring finds work in all departments nearly completed, and all hands anxiously waiting the word to move. Master mechanic Cardinal has completed five new wagons, which are already in the hands of the painters, and all are models of beauty. At Mr. Wheeler's farm our draught stock is comfortably housed, all in prime condition for the coming campaign, while here at our ring barn, the ring stock and ponies have been kept as sleek as seals, under the watchful eye of Joe Tracy. The executive staff for the coming season will be as follows: Al. F. Wheeler, owner and manager; Adam Gillespie, assistant manager; Leon Yeaton, general agent; F. J. Frink, special agent; Harvey Merritt, boss bill poster, with four assistants; Geo. Wood, superintendent; Geo. M. Millson, boss hostler; Jack Crawford, ring stock; "Pony" Joe Tracey, in charge of ponies and dogs; Horace Prentice, boss property man; Prof. Perrine, boss animal man; O. A. Berry, in charge of cook and dining tents; Ed. H. Bell, superintendent of privileges; Prof. Will T. Miller, manager of annex. People so far engaged include: Albert Gaston, principal clown and equestrian director; Al. F. Wheeler Jr. and Frank Belmont, clowns; Zech and Zech, aerialists; J. A. Aker, contortion and rings; Belmont's comedy donkeys, Myers and La Sure, revolving ladder, and Prof. Wheeler's troupe of ponies and dogs. Adam Gillespie will be musical director, with a band of twelve picked musicians. Our season will open about May 1.
Chas. Stone, of the Three Stones, and Claudie Hamp, have signed with the Great Silver Show, for season of 1906, to do their novelty double high wire act and double traps, and carrying perch, making the second season with this show for Mr. Stone.
The Delno-Garnel Troupe are engaged to present their novelty bar aerial act with the Wallace Show the coming season.
Notes from the winter quarters of R. V. Hall Circus, Fond du Lac, Wis. Everybody is hustling around the winter quarters of Hall's Circus, getting things in shape for the opening, about May 10. The show will be twice its former size this season, carrying about fifty people and a band and orchestra of twenty solo musicians. Mr. Hall has added several new wagons to the show, and will make a feature of the street parade.
First gun of the season fired by the Greater Norris & Rowe Circus. Norris & Rowe opened their season Saturday, March 10, at their new winter quarters at Santa Cruz, Cal. It was an ideal circus day, the weather being such as only California can produce. The merchants agreed to close their stores and make the occasion a gain day in compliment to the first time the show had wintered in their city. At both afternoon and evening exhibitions the tents were filled to very near capacity, and the programme went unusually well for an initial performance. Excellent hits were scored by Edna Maretta, the somersault bare back rider; Frank Miller and wife, in a carrying act; Ed. Hocum, principal rider; Mrs. Hocum, in a menage act; Grace Morton, equestrienne; Austin King, jockey and mule hurdle; Herbert Rumley, rough and trick rider; Geo. Settler and his four white Shetlands; the Stirk Family, the Four Pickard Bros., the Sugimoto Japanese women, Martin and Crouch, Deming and Onslow, and a troupe of Arabs rounded out a satisfactory programme. "Tote" Ducrow and Bill Scott are the principal clowns, and Jos. Geisler continues as equestrian director. The show left at midnight for Monterey, and after a tour of Southern California will make its usual Pacific coast territory. During the day Norris & Rowe received many telegrams wishing them a successful season from well known circus owners, railroad officials and friends.
Notes from Pawnee Bill's Greater Wild West. Major Gordon W. Lillie, "Pawnee Bill," the pioneer promoter of Pawnee Bill's Powerful Wild West, has this season surrounded himself with a coterie of efficient, practical and experienced managers, representatives, performers and everything being the best that money can procure to retain Pawnee Bill's high standard of supremacy. For the past three months Major Lillie has been exceedingly active in his broad views on expansion, and his formidable exposition for 1906 will be a prodigious and startling revelations in the world wide tented field. . . . the enlargement of the big Wild West and Great Far East, with new features, equipments and rolling stock, requiring eight additional double length cars to accomodate the vast improvements . . .
New York Clipper, March 31, 1906, p. 158. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Geyer Show. This is a two car show, of which Chas. Geyer is owner and manager. We carry thirty people, and a band and orchestra, under canvas, in Texas. We run all year 'round, never close, and are in our third year.
Nellie Revell, known in vaudeville as "The Woman Who Says Things," has been engaged for Cook & Barrett's Circus, as press representative, for the coming season. Miss Revell is a Chicago girl, and has had years of experience in newspaper work, being the daughter of a well known newspaper man. She is also well known among circus folk, and is the wife of a well known circus agent. She will enjoy the distinction of being the only woman circus press agent in the world. Cook & Barrett's Combined Railroad Shows open in Lancaster, Mo., April __, with a fine display of paraphernalia and stock. They have added two calliopes, twenty-six horses, and elephant, purchased from the New York zoo, which would make Jumbo look to his laurels; also a troupe of trained ponies, two lions and other valuable stock.
Frank Bowen writes: "I was compelled to cancel several weeks' work for bery peculiar reasons, and have signed with the John Robinson Show."
Mlle. Hilda just closed a successful season of twelve weeks with Shipp's Indoor Circus, and has signed with the Great Sells and Floto Show for the summer.
Notes of E. G. Smith's Colossal Shows and Trained Animal Exposition. Our tenth consecutive tour will open at Lambertsville, Pa., on Saturday, April 21, and will be a conspicuous event in the history of this tented organization. The entire outfit has undergone a complete change, and much new property has been added. Our parade will be one of our many features. The draft stock is in A1 condition, and we will uphold our reputation in that line. The ring stock compares favorably with that of any show of our calibre, and would be a feature with some of the larger circuses. Following is our roster: E. G. Smith, sole owner and manger; Keller Iseminger, general agent; J. J. Ray Dee, assistant manager; Mrs. E. G. Smith, secretary and treasurer; J. Walters, leader of band; J. C. Price, in charge of canvas; Freeman Ringlee, boss hostler; Billy Finnin, boss cook. Performers: B. M. Smith, traps, rings and knockabout clown; J. J. Ray Dee, wire, juggling and contortion; Great De Vilbis, flying perch and unsupported ladder; Wm. Milliken, principal singing and talking clown; the $1,000 Shetland team, Inez and Lena; Josephine and Joe, riding dog and mate; the clown donkey, Jenny Lind, and E. G. Smith's dog circus. Musicians: J. Walters, Chas. Dickey, Henry Kaufman, Wm. Milliken, Ed. Thires, Wm. Lookingbill and Jack Ready.
Mr. Higgins, formerly with the McCaddon Show, in France, is requested to communicate with the American consul, at Grenoble, France.
Clinton Newton writes that he will be the press agent with Sun Brothers' World's Progressive Railroad Shows during the coming tour. Mr. Newton is now at the circus headquarters, Savannah, Ga. He also states that the Sun Show for 1906 will be a colossal affair with an entirely new and magnificent accountrement. The show is announced for an early Spring opening at Savannah.
Jas. A. Morrow's Big Shows is using the winter quarters, which have been occupied for the past seven years by Sig. Sautelle's Circus, at Homer, N.Y. Work on the new wagons has already been commenced, and will be ready for the opening date. Manager Morrow has just arrived with a car load of fine horses. The canvas will be all new. Most of the acts for the season have been contracted for, and it is the intention of manager Morrow to make his enterprise one of the best small shows on the road. Mons. Trafalgar and Mlle. Tarenta make their first American appearance with this show this season, opening at Homer, N.Y., May 11.
Notes from J. Augustus Jones' Enormous Shows. This attraction, formed by the consolidation of Indian Bill's Wild West, with the Cole and Rogers Circus (both of which concerns are owned by Mr. Jones) is preparing for the season of 1906 in its commodious winter quarters at Verona, Pa., a suburb of Pittsburg. Sixteen cars, with one car and a box brigade in advance, will constitute the train. Forty head of dapple gray baggage horses are now en route from Wisconsin, the result of Mr. Jones' trip to that State recently. H. Stanley Lewis has been at winter quarters for three weeks in charge of the painters. The first shipment of special paper is being packed in the advertising car, and the entire force of blacksmiths, animal trainers, mechanics, wardrobe makers and painters are working overtime preparing the paraphernalia. New animals for the augmented menagerie are arriving constantly.
Gollmar notes. Final preparations for the season's opening date, the last of April, are being rushed at the Gollmar Brothers' winter quarters, and the greatest of American shows will inaugrate its 1906 itinerary, not only enlarged in appointment, but complete in detail, with a street parade, which, in conception and plan, will prove a delightful surprise even to veteran circus men. The color scheme is peacock green, gold and silver trimmings, with entirely now wardrobe and eight display dens. Three bands and a thirty-two pipe calliope will furnish the music to thrill the ears of the multitude, and twenty-six sixty foot cars will transport the establishment. Walter Gollmar is daily rehearsing a score of beautiful horses to feature in the arenic programme, which promises this season to be the best in the history of the show. The stables are filled with a bunch of as fine stock as one will find anywhere, several dens of animals have been added to the menagerie, and a new sleeper car, one stock, and two flat cars will complete the train equipment. Several new riding acts will number in the programme, and the roster will embrace the names of many circus celebrities. In the office of Messrs. Ben F., Fred and Charles are up to their eyes in correspondence, and when the superintendent of the lot sounds the Spring "get-a-way," next month, Gollmar Bros.' Greatest of American Shows will be as complete as money, brains and business enterprise can make it. J. Delmar Andrews has signed with this show as contracting agent, it being his second year in their employ, working for them season of 1905 as twenty-four hour man.
Notes from the Pawnee Bill Show. . . . The congress of nations has been enlarged to such an extent that it will embrace every known race in the Orient, and many that cannot be classed with the Oriental dwellers. The herd of Royal India elephants has arrived in winter quarters, and their education is being perfected. Major Lillie received work from his buffalo ranch at Pawnee, Oklahoma, telling of the birth of two buffalo. These will be strong enough to go on the road with the large herd when the show opens. Two baby camels have been added to the herd from Egypt. In winter quarters a new Filipino buffalo was born, and all of these new arrivals, including the baby elephant, will make an interesting collection for not only the little ones but for the older ones as well. The advance roster is about completed, and will be announced as soon as the men have been assigned to the cars and different brigades. Eight new cars will be added to the train, and forty head of horses to the stable. The new advertising cars are about ready to leave the shop. Geronimo, the famous old Apache Indian chief, will head the Indian contingent this year. It will be the first and last time for him to travel with any tented exhibition. Major Lillie has under contract a number of high salaried meritorious features that are in keeping with the title of his show, and they will be entirely new to amusement lovers in this country. . . . Major Lillie is now in New York awaiting the arrival of some of the foreign contingent. Much trouble was experienced in securing the Cossack this season. The Russian government was loath to have any part of their soldiery come to this country. However, the major succeeded in securing Prince Luca and twenty followers, all of whom are said to be the most expert horsemen and swordsmen in Russia.
New York Clipper, April 7, 1906, p. 186. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Ty-Bell Sisters go with the Sells-Floto Shows.
Jesse Brandon has just closed at the Grand Opera House, at Beardstown, Ill., and expects to join out with the white tops for the coming season.
The Onri Family, six in number, open at the Coliseum, Chicago, with the Ringling Bros.' Circus, for this comming summer season. They introduce, in conjuction with their juggling specialty a novelty in the globe line, that of five people on globes in new acrobatic tricks. Archie L. Onri, the well known comedian of the family, has just recovered from a severe attack of malaria, and has spent the past four weeks at Mt. Clemens, Mich.
Notes from the Cummins Wild West Exhibition Co. Howard W. Damon will have the management of the dining camp the coming season. He is now completing a model cook house wagon, which is being constructed at the winter quarters, Geneva, and every detail in this department, it is needless to say, will be perfect, when it is known that Mr. Damon is being carefully instructed in his plans and arrangements by that veteran caterer, A. D. Moreland. A model bakery is being added to the dining department, which will be a new departure in the tented world.
Peach buds from Cole Brothers' Shows. Early last week the stock was brought in from the farm, and four, six, eight and ten horse teams have since been given daily exercise on the roads, that they may be in the best possible condition when the band begins to play. . . . Several of the people have already appeared in Birmingham, and with rehearsals in ring barn and gymnasium, together with the operating of the different shops on full time, there is life and bustle around the quarters. Two car loads of paper were received a few days ago from the printers, and were transferred to the No. 1 and excursion cars. Ere the next issue of this paper reaches us the first advance car will have begun its tour, and the others will follow at proper intervals. Harry Craig, last year's efficient steward, with his men, is on hand, equipping his department with the necessary liner, silverware, and the most improved ranges the market affords. During the past winter proprietor M. J. Downs made hosts of friends here, and all indications are that Birmingham citizens will see to it that his season is inaugurated under the most favorable auspices. Masons and Elks have expressed their intention of turning out en masse with their families at the opening performances, and it is understood other societies will do likewise. . . .
Joseph Mack has signed with Washburn & D'Alma's Trained Animal Shows, to take charge of the concert and play the steam calliope in the parade. D. G. Markell will act as ring master and general trainer, and Jack Carley, boss canvas man, with forty men.
Notes from Thos. L. Finn & Co.'s New United Shows. Thos. L. Finn, manager; Geo. E. Pickering is general agent; Leslie E. Smith, in charge of second advance, with two assistants; A. C. Orcutt, general superintendent; Will Brennan, boss canvasmen, with eight assistants; Frank Fitzgerald, in charge of cook tent. Those already signed include: Louis Beauvias, one armed acrobat; Canfield and Van Horn, aerialists and acrobats; Gordon and Hayes, aerialists and jugglers; Sylvester Newman, clown and concert; Nat Lewis, wire act; U. G. Allmon, J. Johnson, Al. Case, R. A. Barker, Al. Kaleta, L. W. ___, Fred Barnard and John Hodges. Mr. Finn's troupe of performing dogs and ponies will be a pleasing feature. The side show, under management of Robt. Gordon, will be a decided novelty, introducing Flash, in feats of magic and ventriloquism; Mrs. Robt. Gordon, mind reader and fire act; Miss La Rue, sword swallower; a vaudeville performance by singers, dancers and comedians; ___ and his band of Zulus, and four miniature cages. The street parade will be a feature this season, and the band wagon, tableaux and floats are as clean and bright as paint and gilt can make them. We will carry about thirty horses and ponies, and about forty people, and look forward to a long and prosperous season.
Sydney Wire writes from Toledo: "All is arranged for Brighton Beach, and Wm. A. Brady was here and visited the Ferari winter quarters. . . . He informed us that he had made all arrangements with Pawnee Bill, and that show will also be a feature at the Beach this season. . . . Jos. G. Ferari will have a dog and pony show at the Beach, and the Francis Ferari Shows will furnish almost all the Midway attractions."
Notes from Rigg's Rough Riders Wild West and Historical Frontier Exhibition, conducted by Riggs Amusement Co. (incorporated), C. W. Riggs, president. Everything is on the move at our winter quarters at Augusta, Ga. Fourteen cars arrived Saturday, March 24, from Camden, N.J., all being sixty feet long and all new. Our No. 1 advertising car, which is also new, will arrive from the railroad shops in Augusta on April 2. The paper is all special. The No. 1 car will carry fifteen bill posters, lithographers, programmers and banner men. No cooking will be done on the car, as all live at the best hotels. . . . Our ten canopy is 25x300, dressing tent a fifty feet round top, house [sic?] tent. We have fifty head of horses and ponies, and thirty wagons. Characters of all nations of today, and historical and mythological characters, beautiful and elaborate trappings and wardrobe will greatly add to the free street show. All new waterproof tents will be used. Our side show will be one of the biggest ever put up with a Wild West, and will be under the management of W. C. Homer. Our frontier exhibition will consist of a genuine band of Navajo Indians, fifty in all; cowboys, frontiersmen, cowgirls, scouts, trappers, hunters and guides, forming groups which should prove of interest to all. The exhibition will take place in the big Wild West arena. The engagements for this frontier exhibition are now almost complete, and include some of the best and most skilled in the Wild West line. Our fancy rifle shot experts, ropers and broncho busters are all high class, and is is safe to predict that April 27 and 28 will see the big Wild West ready, opening at Augusta, Ga. Then for the road, into South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, West Virginia, Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Kentucky, then South into Florida for the winter.
Flossie La Blanche, strong woman, having booked with the Sells-Floto Consolidated Circus, has given up her spacious studio at the Irving, corner of Irving Place and Seventeenth Street, New York City, where she taught physical culture since the closing of her show in Canada, last Fall.
Notes from the Hagenbeck Greater Shows. The following is a complete roster of the advance for the season of 1906: W. H. Gardner, general advance manager; W. E. Fuller, traffic manager; Frank Burns, contracting agent; Cy. ___, local contracting agent; Herbert S. Maddy, press contractor; E. Sherman Dandy, special press representative; J. De Wolf, press representative with show; Sam Feidler, manager car No. 1; W. Dunnington, manager car No. 2; Harry Overton, manager car No. 3; James Dunworth, manager car No. 4; B. Rosenquest, country agent, and Bert Wilson, route rider. List of men: car No. 1 - Sam Feidler, manager; J. W. Nedrow, boss; Walter Kidder, litho.; Thos. Burman, J. F. Miller, Joe Horton, G. G. Fuller, H. A. Straub, W. Graves, Ed. ___, C. T. Crippen, J. M. Harmon,J. W. Slaughter, Wm. Wormwald, J. J. McNamara, Harry Coley, Henry Rutter, D. F. Keefe. Car No. 2, W. S. Dunnington, manager; Wm. Shea, boss; Jas. A. Lyons, J. E. Simpson, Henry Mercier, ?. P. Malloy, Jack Scott, M. J. Burke, W. S. Wheelock, Victor Stout, Todd Cooper, Harley White, Edw. Boyce, Geo. Davis, Harry McClure, Ernest, La Fever, F. M. Wilson, McFarland, McLaughlin. With car No. 3, Harry Overton, manager; Jas. Boeler, Joseph Smith, L. E. Marshall, H. Clayburn, B. Berkley, J. Binkley. With car No. 4, James Dunworth, manager; J. F. Homan, D. D. Hester, M. L. Bell, A. M. Ruland, Wm. Perrault, F. Church . . .
New York Clipper, April 14, 1906, pp. 217, 226. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Wm. H. Delly, formerly advertising agent of Crawford's Theatre, Leavenworth, Jan., and later changed to the People's Theatre, at Kansas City, Kan., in the same capacity, expects to leave soon for Baraboo, Wis., to join Gollmar Bros.' Circus, to manage their advance car No. 1.
Tarlton and Tarlton, who recently finished a successful engagement over the Novelty circuit, in Colorado, will play the Bijou Theatre, Galesburg, Ill., and Kokomo, Ind., and then join the Great Wallace Shows at Peru, Ind., April 28, for the season.
M. R. Williams, general agent; G. Williams, advertising agent; Hugh Coyle, press agent, and Wallie Wilson, treasurer, have signed with Mackay's European Circus. The annex and privileges have been leased to Richard Louis, of Geneva, O.
George H. Wymann, German knockabout comedian and clown, will travel with Gollmar Bros.' Shows, making his second season with that show.
The opposition branch of the Pawnee Bill Show is in Pittsburg. The banners they are using this season are attracting considerable attention and much favorable comment. Pawnee Bill has received word from the Commissioner of Indian Affairs that permission has been granted Roan Chief, of the Pawnees, to travel with his exhibition during the coming season. Roan Chief is admitted to be one of the finest specimens of the true Indian alive. It will be the final leave of absence granted this famous chief, and it has been granted in this instance for seven months. The Gillman Brothers, known throughout Colorado as the "giant cowboys," will be with the Pawnee Bill Shows this year. They are both over six feet tall, and is is claimed their riding and roping is unequalled.
The 1906 advertising contingent of Sun Brothers' World's Progressive Railroad Shows (fifteenth year, and third year on rail) consists of the following: Pete Sun, general agent; C. S. Clarke, local contractor. Advance car No. 1: R. C. Woods, car manager; Jack Bledsers, special agent; Bert Moore, boss bill poster; Fred Bowers, boss country bill poster; F. D. Oppenheimer, lithographer; Michael Noonan, banner man, and the following bill posters: Fred Riley, Earl Scott, C. R. Linville, Simpson Snipe, H. M. Munson, Mr. Patterson, Wm. Maxton, I. J. Hank, Thos. Wilson, John Betz, Add Tolson and Jas. Hill. The advertising car is sixty feet in length, and is entirely new throughout, with all modern conveniences and appliances . . . the most ornat advance cars ever seen en tour.
Ed. Montague writes from City of Mexico, as follows: "Orrin Bros.' Circus closes its present season on March 25, remains closed three weeks (one of which is Holy Week), reopening on April 16 with a brand new company, sent from New York by Fred A. Hodgson, the manager. My original contract of ten weeks was extended to twenty weeks by Mr. Hodgson, on account of the continued great success and the appreciation of the Mexican public, who never seem to tire witnessing the performance of my birds. I am more than gratified with my success, and have enjoyed every moment of my visit, both in Yucatan and Mexico. The Orrin Bros.' Show is run on the same style as the first class circuses are in Europe, with a line up of performers at the ring door, in uniform. The Gran Circo Orrin here in Mexico City is really an opera house, and consists of a circus ring in the centre, and a fully equipped stage at one side. The performance alternates with the acts in the ring and the acts on the stage. When we opened here last January, a grand line of ninety-two people marched into the ring, all costumed for their different acts, and after bowing their acknowledgments to the audience, retired to great applause. At that time the Circo Orrin could put on four different shows - with an entire change of acts - consequently, every act, however important, has a rest of two or more days. The Mexican public is very enthusiastic for everything novel and good, irrespective of nationality, and always greet their favorites with a reception. The theatre season here has been disastrous. Since the Orrin season opened, nothing short of a Sarah Bernhardt would have a chance while the circus is open. This is a grand country, and is destined in the near future to be second only to the United States. Here in Mexico City, a new post office is equal to any I have seen, and a grand opera house is being built which will cost over four million dollars. The city has every modern improvement, except hotels, the present ones being unable to half accommodate the rush of tourist travel. . . . One of the permanent features for years past at Circo Orrin has been the famous clown, Ricardo Bell, the idol of the Mexican publid. Renowned performers from all parts of the world come and go, but Dick Bell (as he is affectionatley called) remains the popular favorite, and is always received with storms of applause. His rapid fire stuccato talk and wit, always springing something new; his wonderful facial expression and by-play, without words, and a pantomimic action stamps an individuality all his own, not only as a clown but as a comedian, whom I can only compare with the late Geo. L. Fox. Bell is a member of all the principal clubs in Mexico City, and with his charming family resides in his own palatial home, owning his stable of horses, carriages and automobiles. I have enjoyed the hospitality of his family many times. I leave here, together with my property man, birds and paraphernalia, sailing from Vera Cruz March 29, for New York."
Notes from the Pawnee Bill Show. The advance of the Pawnee Bill Show this season will be in the hands of those who have been tried, and not found wanting. . . . John E. Royle will have the first car, with Dick Derringer as boss bill poster, and twenty men. Joseph M. Howard will have the second car, with Wilburt Winn boss bill poster, and twenty men. William A. Wallace will have one opposition brigade, and Harry Snyder the other. Robert Clements is prospector and contracting agent, and L. F. Nickademus special agent. R. R. Chesman is doing the traffic work, and Ross Stapleton will direct the route riders and checkers up. Every sheet of paper, from the mammoth 48-sheets to the 1/2 sheets thoughout will be of new design. Six new lithographed heralds will be used, and there are eight styles of specially designed banners. The opposition brigades are already in the field, the early routing of the show is completed, and contracts made. . . . The show will open in Canton, April 28, going directly East, taking in all of the larger cities throughout the New England States.
Notes and roster of Wiedemann's Big "Kit Carson" Wild West Production. Business has been very satisfactory all winter, through Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi. The only bad luck we have had was losing two fine stallions that died of distemper. We are heading North now, and will start for the Pacific coast in May. Our roster is as follows: Thos. Wiedemann, sole owner and manager; Joe Donahue, business manager; Chas. Stevens, band master; Hank Cook, boss canvas man with ten assistants; Harry Barlow, stage manager; Claude Ewing, master of properties; Ray Hedges, Zeke Hockley, W. R. Smith, George Vickers, Hubert Colcord, Gus Yoder, Howard Pratt, Eugene Senter, Tom Vaughn, E. V. Jackson, Harry Rollings, Ed. Briscoe, John Hardy, Robert Wilson, Jack McClure, "Colorado Cotton," "Arizona Bill," "Lone Star Jack," "Chief Rolling Thunder," "Standing Bear," "Otter Head," two squaws and three papooses. Robert Klemans has charge of the first advance brigade, and Richard Jones the second.
Frank and John A. Gilman and Roy S. Gregory write: "We will join Pawnee Bill's Wild West Show at Canton, O., on April 22. All of us are from Canada. We were with Buckskin Bill in 1902, with Luella Fish and Forepaugh in 1903, with Gabriel Bros. in 1904. In 1905 we were with various fairs, among them the Pueblo, Col. State Fair, where we securd the blue ribbon for our fine work. We are reckoned among the best riders and ropers in the country, and the fact that we are real cowboys, having been used to rope and saddle from infancy, makes this claim plausable. R. S. Gregory is a new man in the show business, but will acquit himself with credit, as he is throroughly proficient."
The B. E. Wallace Circus will open the season April 28.
James A. Bailey, who has been very ill at his home with erysipelas, is on the road to recovery, and his physicians announce that if he does not suffer a relapse, he will soon be able to be about. [James A. Bailey died April 11.]
New York Clipper, April 21, 1906, p. 265. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Jas. A. Morrow's Big Show. The winter quarters of this show, at Homer, N.Y., is owned and formerly used by Sig. Sautelle (the retired showman), and are the most complete in the United States. Manager J. A. Morrow was connected with Sig. Sautelle in a business capacity for a number of years, and upon the retirement of the "governor," he immediately commenced organizing a show of his own, and from all appearances it will be one of the neatest and most complete small shows in this coutnry. . . . Two car load of big dapple grey horses arrived from the West April 2. New tents, harness, seats and lights are arriving daily from the manufacturers, and wagons are being built and painted at the quarters. Manager Morrow will personally handle the business. Geo. B. Beckley will be in charge of the advance; Geo. Provonchey, in the ticket wagon; Dan Travers, general superintendent; Chas. Taft, boss hostler; Wm. Burke, boss chandeliers; Howard Stahler, candy stands; Geo. E. Shubert, chef; Harry Warner, reserved seats; Ben Taylor, musical director, and Harry A. Stone will handle the performance. Season opens May 10.
Notes of the Gollmar Brothers' Annex for the coming season. We are now complete and ready for the opening day, with the following list of people: Millie Taylor, long haired lady; George Bros., living skeleton; Prof. Ditto, ventriloquist; Millie Miett, snake charmer; Lewis Wiser, albino; Grace Gilbert, bearded woman; Prof. Goldie, Punch and magic; George Swift, musical act; Clifford and Arnold, song and dance performers; band of eight pieces, under the direction of Ben Horner; Joe Chiswell, talker; Lew Aronson, side show manager. We have eleven paintings which will compare with the best work in this line ever seen.
The opening of Sells-Floto Shows. The show trains left Denver, Tuesday, April 3, for a 900 mile run to Wichita Falls, Tex., reaching there Friday at 7 a.m., and the two opening performances were given Saturday, April 7, to large attendance. However, the real opening was on Monday, April 9, at Fort Worth, where the show met with great success. William Sells has organized a most complete and meritorious aggregation. His personal staff includes: Col. Charles Seeley, manager; Frank Tammen, treasurer, with Harry Evans and Duff Neff in the ticket wagon; James Campbell, secretary; Punch Wheeler, press agent; Lew Sunlin, equestrian director; Park Prentiss, bandmaster; Jack Shumate, boss hostler; Harry Sells, boss canvasman; Peter Kink, in charge of the privileges; Pop Hundley, the cook house; Jas. McIntyre, manager of outside privileges; W. Musgat, general agent; C. R. Coleman, superintendent of advance car No. 1; Fred McMann, superintendent advance car No. 1; Fred McMann, superintendent advance car No. 2; Charles Frederick, local contractor; Ralph Root, Otto E. Eminger and Fred Kessler, special agents. Ed. Brennan is at the home office in Denver, with Geo. Jareckl, secretary. The performers are: the Peerless Potters, just from Europe; Ty-Bell Sisters, the Marvellos, Lew Sunlin and his animals, the Alpine Family, double wire act; the Martell Troupe of bicyclists; De Carlo, Stokes and Clemmings, Cecelia Fortuna, Mondaluson Sisters, Kitty Krueger, Blanche Hilliard, Clara Reuel, Madam Sunlin, Ida Vance, Pauline Gove, Billy Dutton, William Marks, Fred Bachlor and Albert Stickney. The last ten people are bareback riders. A bunch of clowns, including: ___, John Albion, Billy Burke, Pat Marks, Francois Kennebel, De Fuego, Pete Conklin, Charley Rench, Tom McIntyre, Dutch Fredericks and Slivers Seeley, and Christopher Sells' double herd of performing elephants.
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Golden Mascot Railway Shows. Work has been going on at the winter quarters for several months, and the transformation of the show is almost complete. The cars are a golden color and nicely decorated. New reserved seats are being manufactured at the shops of this show, more substantial and with easier backs than any yet carried, and we need twice as many as formerly. J. R. Bonheur's inventive ability has shown results in a portable gas making plant, to be carried this season. From this convenient plant myrads of diamond lights will fill the tents at night with the radiance of fairyland. It is said to be the safest of all modern illuminants, no gasoline or oil being used, and it eclipses in beauty and space filling strength all other artificial lights. Oatman's ponies and trick mule, "Maude," have been added as a feature, and the male, "Maude," is said to beat them all for laugh producing qualities. The smallest troupe of Shetlands in the world are under training for the ring performances, and Miller's dogs will be a feature in conjunction with the Bonheur's own wonderful troupe. Many other new features have been incorporated with the best of the old acts. A. G. Bonheur is busy with the new routing. W. C. Fields and wife have charge of the reserved seats and the candy privileges.
Jess Goodo, wire performer, has signed with the Geo. W. Hall Jr. Circus for the coming season.
Harry L. De Alvin has signed contracts for the G. P. Kemp's Wild West Show, to do his old maid impersonation.
Lee Parmalee, acrobat and exponent of physical culture, has just closed a successful tour of the copper and iron country in upper Michigan and after a brief rest will join the Freed & Perrine's Twentieth Century Shows, early in May, making his third season with that organization.
Floyd Bernard, equilibrist, has opened his second season with Ringling Bros.' World's Greatest Shows, after a successful tour of the middle west, in vaudeville. Next winter he will play the Adams, Crystal and other circuits.
Harry L. Hanson has signed with the Hargreaves Big R. R. Circus for the season. Mr. Hanson writes that his Fall and Winter season in vaudeville is being booked quite rapidly.
George Warde, Edward Schread and Thomas Brennan have signed for the season with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, and will be known as the Buster Brown Trio.
The Gran Circo Pubillones closes a successful season on May 15, and opens its next season, Nov. 3, 1906.
New York Clipper, April 28, 1906, p. 273. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Reed Sisters, equestrians; Mme. Leona Bonne, aerialist; the Four ___ Brothers, sensational acrobats; Prof. Thomas Clark's dog and pony show, and the Reigler and Zeigler trio of head balancers and Roman ring performers, have signed with the Andrew Mackay European Circus.
The No. 1 car of the Ringling Bros.' World's Greatest Shows has started on the road with the following men in charge: car manager, Frank Estes; W. H. Hoskins, boss bill poster, with Chas. A. Betts, W. E. Baird, Ferdie Jones, Pop May, E. L. Partic, Ed. Wahlmeidler, Geo. Kugler, Chas. McDonall, M. Coughlan, J. Florence Kavanagh, A. Benzinger, Ira Koch, J. E. Lyons, Ed. Guyon, John Jilson and C. O. Damon, bill posters. Bro. Robt. Clark, of Local No. __, has the lithographs, and John Whitman, of Local No. 12, is programmer. All's well at present. J. E. Lyons, of Local No. 17, was elected steward for this season.
Notes from Frank H. Reynolds' Dog and Monkey Circus. We broke all previous records for the actual number of admission tickets sold at West Milan, N.H., week of April 9, with standing room only all week. The high diving monkey, "Dan," does a fifty foot dive in front of the hall nightly. George A. Fox is still singing illustrated songs and managing the stage. Dora Dean (Mrs. Frank H. Reynolds) is making the hit of her life, in her buck and wing dances. We played Berlin Falls, N.H., April 5-7, and did a banner business, under the auspices of the Knights of Pythias. Frank H. Reynolds, proprietor and manager, is going to add ten more trained dogs to his dog and monkey circus, making thirty-two animals in all. We open under canvas near Burlington, Vt., May 10
Canada Frank's Vaudeville Circus notes. We close our season April 18, at Springfield, Kan., making a season of eleven months and eight days. We will have a new seventy, with a thirty Baker top, and will add another car, making it a two car show. We will open our summer season at Tipton, Ia., our home, May 21. We have had one of the best seasons in the history of the show. All the same people have signed again for coming season. The following is roster: F. M. Myers, owner and manager; Mrs. F. M. Myers, ticket seller; Mr. Jackson, traps and reserved seats; Mrs. Jackson, concert and song books; Edward Walton, third season, slack wire, comedy juggling and flying traps; Myers and Jackson, double traps; Alice Adair, barrel juggling and swinging ladder; Miss Maude, songs and dances; Myrtle, child actress, appears in concert and does serpentine dances; Jackson and Myers, revolving ladder act; Jack Maloney, singing and talking clown and ventrlioquist [sic]. The show traveled through eight different States.
Roster of car No. 1, Barnum & Bailey Circus: Lester W. Murray, manager; Thos. Connors, boss bill poster; E. Buckley Hubbard, in charge of lithographs; C. S. Canby, Local No. 4; Geo. Hedges, Local No. 20, lithographers; Arthur Strain, Local No. 4; Wm. Pfeiffer, Local No. 6; E. Boucher, Local No. 27; Frank Manes, Local No. 33; Jas. Lyons, Local No. 30; J. Rauss, Local No. 2; H. Kelson, Local No. 19; W. E. Shaw, Local No. 3; B. Ackerman, Local No. 20; W. Coats, Local No. 11; W. Jacobs, Local No. 18, programmers. W. Humphries, chef; E. Jacobs, waiter; Duke Burke, porter.
Notes from the John Robinson Ten Big Shows. Governor John Robinson, who hs been reported dead so many times, is out with the springtime, and looks good for one hundred years. This year's street pageant is a dream. George Aiken, Robinson's traffic manager, stole a march on other shows, and secured a "shut out" contracts on several railroad systems. Robinson's advance men bought up all the billboards, pole and overhead wires in Portsmouth. The newspapers wrote this up as a new wrinkle, and Robinson, not to be outdone, shipped live elephants to Portsmouth, and used them for billboards. With bills all over them, they were stationed at prominent crossings. The school children were permitted to ride the elephants free. This is the very latest wrinkle in advertising. Robinson's Circus opens April 28, at Lancaster, O. On April 30 it will show at Zanesville, O.; May 1, Circleville; May 2, Portsworth; May 3, Ironton; May 4, Huntington, W. Va. The Robinsons this year have a number of big foreign acts. These European actors have extravagant names. Pronounced quickly, they sound like the finish of a bicycle race. The owners of these names must have waded into the alphabet with a dip net, and kept all the letters they caught.
The advance brigade of the Washburn & D'Alma's Trained Animal Show is as follows: Bert Andrews, general agent; Jack Livingston, boss bill poster; James Gregg, bill poster; Harry Smith, programmer, and John Michel, lithographer. We are all union men and have the Old Reliable sent to us every week.
Pawnee Bill notes. The Pawnee Bill Shows will inaugurate their 1906 season in Canton, April 28, and go from there to Pittsburg for three days. The first advance car left winter quarters 15, after liberally billing the town and country. . . . Major Lillie personally directs the back of the show with a continual watchfulness on the movements of the advance. Harry G. Wilson will manage the annex and privileges. . . . Superintendent Nickademus is in winter quarters, and framing up for the opening day. Manager O. J. came in this week, after an extended Western business trip. Captain Jack Lear and his troupe of rough riders are in. Captain Kellar and his twenty Zouave Girls will be in this week. Chief Tevi [Tevl?] and his entire African contingent will be in during the opening week. The stock is in from the stock farm, at Beverly, and looking fine. The Royal Band of Italy, under director Gregori, has arrived. Cossacks, Singalese, Arabs, Japs, Chinese, Indians, Mexican, Kuffers, cowboys, cowgirls, soldiers and other people are arriving on every train. . . .
New York Clipper, May 5, 1906, p. 302. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The advance of the Great Thos. Hargreaves Reconstructed Railroad Shows is as follows: J. Henry Rice, general agent; V. O. Woodward, contracting agent; "Al" Foster, manager advertising car No. 1; S. J. Banks, contracting press agent; Wm. Carr, manager advertising car No. 2. Fifteen men are carried on the No. 1 car, while the number on the second car is twelve. M. Leary is bill poster-in-chief, and George Cohen has charge of the "opposition" brigade.
Chas. Hildera has signed with the A. F. Tuttle Show, of Linesville, Pa., for next season, to do his aerial specialties. The season will open about May 5.
A troupe of fifty Cingalees joined the Hagenbeck Show at Pittsburg, and are one of the features with the show. Five more cars will be added to the show at Philadelpia, also one hundred head of stock. Our equestrian director, Ed. Shipp, has had the misfortune to lose one of his fine Arabian ring horses.
The St. Leon Family will go with the Wallace Show.
The Jordan Family will go with the Hagenbeck Show.
Ducrow and Richards have returned after a successful season with the Pubillones Circus, in Cuba. They report excellent business. Mr. Ducrow will be American booking representative for Mr. Pubillones, after Nov. 1. Mr. Pubillones will visit the American shows during June.
Notes of Washburn & D'Alma's Show. Leon Washburn bought three small elephants of Rhue, the animal dealer. One is probaby the smallest which has ever come the the United States, and his name is Jumbo. He has also purchased ten pure spotted Shetland stallions of C. G. Phillips' stock farm. We opened at Richmond for a week, doing a big business, and will play towns in Eastern Maryland and Delaware.
Howard and De Leon, with Orrin Bros.' Show, in the City of Mexico, write: "The show opened here big Sunday afternoon, and all acts went well."
The Karoly Brothers are with the Hagenbeck Circus. They landed in New York three weeks ago.
New York Clipper, May 12, 1906, pp. 330, 337. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The roster of the opposition brigade of the Barnum & Bailey Shows is as follows: Joe Rosenthal, agent; A. Cohen, C. Tindle, Chas. Park, J. Cooper, G. West, L. Sullivan and ___.
Mrs. Margaret Devine Welsh, mother of John T. and Col. M. H. Welsh (Welsh Brothers), died at Philadelphia, Pa., April 20, and was buried at Lancaster, Pa. She was sixty-eight years old, a native of Ireland, but a resident of Lancaster for the past sixty years. Her death was due to disease incident to old age. . . .
The advance of the Great Thomas Hargreaves Railroad Shows is composed of: J. Henry Rice, general agent; V. O. Woodward, contracting agent; Al. C. Foster, manager No. 1 advertising car; Sam J. Banks, contracting press agent; Frank Knecht, boss bill poster, assisted by eighteen men; Wm. Carr is in charge of the opposition brigade, and Fritz Greive is chef of No. 1 advertising car.
William Gilman writes that he is doing the contracting for Campbell Bros.' Shows, which opened at Fairbury, Neb., on April 28, that being the winter quarters of the show.
Mlle. Ada Castello, premier equestrienne; Dave Castello, the English bounding jockey,and Chas. Castello, "the human fly," have signed with Mackay's European Railroad Circus.
Notes from Freed & Perrine's New United Shows. Everything is ready for our opening at Eaton Rapids, Mich., May 12. A capable company of performers, in addition to our dogs and ponies and the original acting mule, Maude, make a strong show. Our band and parade will be a feature.
Roster and notes of the Barnum & Bailey advertising car No. 2. We held a meeting Sunday, April 29, and elected Frederick Batterson, of Local No. 4, steward of this car. Roster: A. C. Abbott, manager; Victor Cook, secretary; George Frazer, Local No. 7, boss bill poster; C. J. Sullivan, assistant; A. C. Sprague, Local No. 3, in charge of banners; Smiley Lovelck, No. 1, assistant; Fred Batterson, No. 4, lithos. Bill posters: S. L. Wilkinson, No. 18; Edward Tice, No. 17; O. P. Corbett, Alliance; M. Goodmank Abe Cohn, No. 6; W. Croup, No. 17; Tom Murphy and wallie Cochran, No. 33; G. Thatcher, No. 7; Sharky ___, No. 20; Geo. West, on probation; L. A. Ward, porter; A. Fitchett, chef; Ed. Tolles, waiter. The mascot, "Chicko," joins in Akron.
Roster of Gollmar Bros.' advertising car No. 1: Wm. H. Delly, car manager; E. L. Marades, boss bill poster; C. D. Bender, lithographer; Ira Shrock, programmer. Bill posters: J. W. Erickson, Al. Garrett, W. H. Martin, ___, Geo. Becker, Chester Barr, Eugene Davidson, C. Sharp, Wm. Swan, ___, C. A. Loganecker, John H. Carr, Fred ___, Geo. Sternberg, Frank Ross, Fred ___. The weather has been fine since we left winter quarters, and everyone is enjoying the fine Spring.
W. S. Griffith, aerial bar performer, and the Flying Nelsons, are en route with Gollmar Bros.' Circus.
Notes from Bert Silver's New Tent Show, Bert Silver, proprietor and manager. This is now a ten wagon show. We are carrying this season a seventy foot top, with two thirty foot middle pieces. This is the twenty-fifth season over the same territory. The roster is as follows: Bert Silver, violin and cornet; Mrs. Bert Silver, treasuere and ticket seller; Laura Silver, cornet and illustrated songs; ___ Silver, magician and baritone soloist; Little Jack Silver, juggler and hoop roller, melliphone in band; J. Dan Rice, with his barnyard circus, consisting of ponies, pigs and mules; Stone and Hamp, double traps and breakaway ladder; Clara Moncayo, contortionist; Claude Fairman, slack wire; Otto De Varre, sword swallower; Stone and Moncayo, Japanese perch; Frank Carpenter, Irish and black face comedian; ___, the boneless wonder; Clara Carpenter, with her high wire and gos; Snow and Sibley, knockabout clowns; Claude ___, tuba soloist; Claude Reynolds, trap drums; Ed. Cross, advance representative. Everything is in readiness for the opening at Standish, Mich., May 10.
Senorita Elva (Mrs. J. B. Moran), aerialist, late of the Zamora Family, died April 28. During her career as a performer she was connected with the Andress, Shields, Frank A. Robbins, Scribner & Smith, and the Reynolds Shows. Her last appearance was with the Reynolds Show, in 1893, after which she retired. Surviving is a daughter, Jesse B. Moran, known in the show business as Lew M. Kelly, Funeral services were held at her late residence, No. __ East One Hundred and Thirty-third Street, New York City. The remains were interred at Greenwood Cemetery, Brooklyn, May 1.
Lon Williams, for many years slide trombone player with the bands of Barnum & Bailey Circus and Buffalo Bill's Wild West, died at his home in Urbana, O., April 28, from liver trouble. The funeral was held on April 30, under the auspices of the local Aerie of Eagles and the Urbana Band. His wife and a child of about seven years of age survive him.
New York Clipper, May 19, 1906, pp. 354, 363. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Frank A. Robbins Circus, which was exhibiting in New Rochelle, N.Y., May 11, was damaged by a fire, which also caused something of a panic in the spectators. A gasoline tank exploded, setting fire to the big top,and men and women and children made a rush to get out. Ten were seriously hut, but the canvas was quite badly damaged, and some of the costumes were injured. John Sullivan, a circus employee, was shoving the cages out of the tent and his leg was broken. The employees cut away the canvas, and so the tent was emptied in a couple of minutes. The fire department responded and the local police also assisted.
Pawnee Bill and his employees have been exonerated from blame for Charles H. Hendrick's death. He was fatally injured by the falling of the walls at the United States Arsenal while the show was exhibiting in the grounds.
A team of four horses which was in a chariot race in Wallace's Circus, at Alton, Ill., caused a slight panic in the audience by running away. Mescal, the driver, failed to hold them in, while making the turn, and his car collided with that driven by Mrs. Abrams, throwing him in among the spectators. Mrs. Abrams drove her team off the track, and after a wild run four times around the arena, the horses were stopped.
The Burtinos are en route with the John Robinson Circus.
Chamberlain's Concert Band, which for the past ten years has been connected with some of the leading circuses, will be one of the feature attractions at Wagner's White City, Binghampton, N.Y., the coming season. The engagement expires Sept. __, after which the band will make a tour of the principal cities, some excellent time having already been booked.
The Orrin Circus will close May 28. Manager Fred A. Hodgson will then retire from the show and will sail for New York May 31, accompanied by his family, en route for his summer home in Canada. He will make the trip from New York to Collingwood in his automobile. During his stay in Mexico he has become a devotee to the art of automobiling. Mr. Hodgson has not formed any definite plans for the future.
Roster of advance car No. 1, Great Wallace Show: Geo. J. Choffin, manager; Kid Wheeler, charge of paper; Dan Malone, Ed. Bluskie, James Quirk, P. Vandervoort, Wm. Thomas, Fred Burton, H. E. Schaffer, Harry ___, Robt. Waite, Wm. ___, Art. Herbest, H. O. Hoxie, Human Wedge, J. Harrison, Walla Fancher, Wm. Lane, W. Nisson, Al. Hall, Ben Deschane, W. Scott, in charge of lithos; F. L. Smith, ___, John Blair, programmer; Percy Earl, porter.
Bunth and Rudd report success with the Circo Orrin, in Mexico.
Madame Marinella, a trapezist, of the Hagenbeck Shows, who was obliged to remain over in Lancaster, Pa., for medical treatment, rejoined the show on May 9. Two weeks ago one of her hands was injured in Johnstown by a trunk lid falling on it.
Following is a complete roster of the executive and business staff of the Barnum & Bailey Show: George O. Starr, managing director; Fred B. Hutchinson, associate director; Charles R. Hutchinson, director and general treasurer; George Arlington, business manager; Louis E. Cooke, general advance manager; Edward Arlington, traffic manager; Charles Andress, attorney; R. W. Ivers, physician; R. M. Harvey, chief contracting press agent; Charles Hayes, special representative; John Stevens, treasurer; R. M. Whitehead, auditor; W. R. McDonald, secretary; Harvey L. Watkins, contracting press agent; Willard D. Coxey, press agent; Dan S. Fishell, press agent (back with show); Frank Hyatt, superintendent; Charles McLean, boss canvas man; John Burke, assistant boss canvas man; John Burke, assistant boss canvas man; William Ducrow, equestrian director; R. H. Dockrill, equestrian director; David McKay, boss hostler; Tom Lynch, boss hostler; Doc Elliott, ring stock boss; Charles Stocks, superintendent of lights; Geo. Conklin, superintendent of menagerie; Dan Taylor, boss blacksmith; John McLaughlin, master of transportation; William Schaefer, boss car porter; Charles Davis, manager of dining tent; Charles Henry, superintendent of refreshment; Robert Bigsby, chief of properties; Mrs. Anna White, wardrobe mistress; Lester Murray, manager car No. 1; A. C. Abbott, manager car No. 2; Oliver Lester, manager car No. 3; Peter Conklin, twenty-four hour man; Harry Barnum, twenty-four hour man; Charles Bernard, chief usher; Sam McClure, chief of secret service; Carl Clair, director of band; Martin Foy, stenographer; E. F. O'Neill, stenographer; William Dykeman, superintendent of programmes.
New York Clipper, May 26, 1906, p. 394. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Bert Silver Show. We opened at our headquarters, Standish, Mich., May 10, to big business, and we have packed the canvas every stand to date. . . . We carry thirty people, twenty-six head of horses and ponies, and our route is all in Michigan.
The following are with the Great Hargreaves Shows: J. Henry Rice, general agent; Vic Woodward, contracting agent; ___, manager No. 1 advance car, with sixteen men; Chas. Banks, press agent; Fred Green, manager No. 2 advance car, and ten men; Al. Henker, twenty-four hour agent.
Notes from Campbell Bros.' Shows. Everybody well. . . . Two well attended performances were given in Colorado Springs, Col., __, the show leaving for Boulder, and the East. The coast will be visited in the itinery of the show this season. Equestrian director W. Bailey is well pleased with the people of the sawdust arena, and puts a pleasing programme on for the delectation of the patrons of the show. Many professional visitors saw the show. . . .
John T. Welsh writes: "The Welsh Brothers' Newest Great Shows for 1907 will be a wagon show throughout. A company with $200,000 capital was recently formed in Philadelphia, Pa., its purpose being to reconstruct the show and equip the same throughout with motor wagons. The only horses carried by the show will be those used in the performance. Plans for the construction of the wagons will be ready in a few days, when bids for their construction will be asked for. There will be about forty wagons in all - twenty for the menagerie, two for band, one calliope, four for the advance, and the others will be used for paraphernalia. There will be entirely new and novel parade wagons. Their construction will be entirely different from anything ever seen in a parade before. The outfit when ready will be one of the most complete and elaborate on the road. Winter quarters have been changed from Lancaster, Pa., to Philadelphia. The business office is located at No. __ North Ninth Street. John T. Welsh is president and general manager of the new show, and will give his whole attention to getting things into shape for the 1907 season, after the close of his contract with the Hargreaves Shows."
Wm. Tessier has recovered from injuries received by the breaking of a rope while performing on a trapeze with the Forepaugh-Sells Show, at Charleston, W. Va., and is again at work.
Roster of the Barnum & Bailey advertising car No. 3. Oliver Lester, car manager; Grant Van Osten, checker up; Wm. Fishee, assistant; Wilson ___, boss bill poster; Wm. Merchant, steward, and the following bill posters: Shine Perry, Walter Beck, "Red" Dowd, James Kelly, Howard Johnson, George Jackson, Chester ___; Edward Johnson, chef; Geo. Doerner, waiter; Ed. Brown, porter. . . .
Roster of the Might Haag Shows: Ernest Haag, manager and sole owner; Mrs. Alice Haag, front door tickets; Doc Stout, general advance manager; Frank McGuire, press agent and adjuster; Uncle Jack Farley, twenty-four hour man; Harry Garner, superintendent of dining tents; Charley Lond, refreshment stands; Fred De Ivey, side show opener and lecturer; King ___, boss canvas man; Gentry, assistant boss canvas man; Bill Taylor, boss hostler, and twelve horse driver; Bill Grah, boss of ponies; John Delvy, boss property man; Harry R. Rhoades, bandmaster of the big top band of twenty pieces; Everet James, leader of band number two, of eight pieces; Curly Womick, calliope player; Spider Mardelo, equestrian director; Albert Armor, riding master; the Six De Ivey troupe of acrobats; the Amores, impalement act; Irene James, wire and single traps; Fay Woods, monkey perch; Chas. Johnson, bounding rope; De Iveys, breakaway ladder; Ray Forbes, comedy wire and rings; Mardelo, contortionist; Mlle. Blanc, wire; Alvedo Bros. Four, aerial bars return act; Anna Woods, contortionist; Fred De Ivey, high stilts; Gail ___, principal clown; Al. Armor, Curly Womick, Billy Burton, Roy Forum, Bill Sykes, Alvedo Bros., and Little Souf, clowns; a troupe of ten performing Shetland ponies, troupe of performing dogs, the riding dogs Dewey, Duke and Major, the high school performing monkey, Jim, and the performing elephants, Tip and Alice. Our annex is under the management of Capt. Dunken. Roster: Fred De Ivey, openings and lecturer; Crankey ___, Ford Sells and Ducket Whitey, ticket sellers; Uncle Jack Farley, ticket taker; nine cages of animals, lions, tigers, kangaroos, hyenas, black leopards, jaguars, monkeys, baboons, birds, sacred cattle, elephants and camels. We feature "The Lion Fight," between Wallace, the black-maned lion, and Capt. Dunken. Haag's mile long parade consists of many beautiful and costly cages, dens, wagons. Harry Rhoades' grand concert band, in the golden chariot; Sylph, drawn by eight little coal black ponies. Our big top is ninety feet, with two forty foot middle pieces; menagerie, sixty feet, with two thirty foot middle pieces; twenty-eight head of ponies, and one hundred and eighty head of work stock.
The advance of Campbell Bros.' Shows is A. G. Campbell, general agent; W. J. Gilman, general contracting agent . . . Geo. Allen, manager car No. 1, with eighteen men; Wm. Vance, manager car No. 2, with twelve men; C. C. Marks, route rider; R. Pettengill, twenty-four hour man.
The Geo. W. Rentz Combined Show, under the management of Orton Bros., and B. Dooley's side show and concert, under management of John S. Reh, opened in Tallahassee, Fla., May 1, and has been playing to good business. Miss Dupree is feature in concert.
Tuttle Show notes. The A. F. Tuttle Olympic Show left winter quarters May 7, and has been touring Western Pennsylvania since then. We have been doing well in spite of the inclemency of the weather, having had only one fine day so far. We have the following people: the Thardos, James Canfield, ___, Lew Crawford and Hilderra, besides our working and advance force. . . . the Thardos in their impalement act and dog circus. Lew Crawford distributes his merry songs and jokes, and everyone is happy and contented.
The Le Yards, William and Beatrice, are with Cummins' Wild West Co. sideshow and concert, and report making good, closing the concert with their laughable comedy talking, singing and dancing act.
Roster of advance car No. 1, of the Ringling Bros.' Show: Frank Estes, W. H. Hoskins, Chas. A. Betts, W. E. Baird, Fred Jones, John May, John ___, E. E. Patrick, Ed. Wahmseidler, John Whittmore, Geo. Kugen, Chas. McDonald, Robert Clark, ___, J. L. Kavanagh, J. E. Lyons, A. Benzinger, Ira Koch and Ed. ___.
Roster of advance car No. 1, of the John Robinson Circus was in Lancaster, O., April __. John Smith was elected steward of car, representing the National Alliance Bill Posters and Billers of America. The following memebers of the alliance are employed on car with this circus: James Nevis, N. Brown, H. Bell, Phil Stinson, F. F. Smith . . . Geo. Nelson, F. A. Rockfellow, Geo. Massume, J. L. Springer and F. S. Smith. Several more bill posters with the show will join local in a few days.
Roster of bill posters, lithographers and banner men with the Barnum & Bailey Circus for season of 1906: . . . R. R. Clawson, W. F. Tate, J. E. Sisler, Walter Beck, Edward Dowd, E. L. Wilkinson, W. M. Coates, F. Maurer, E. Hubbard, W. A. Wilkins, Jos. Herrity, E. J. Lister, Wilson Thebo, Thos. Connors, W. R. Jacobs, Geo. Thatcher, Geo. Frazer, A. H. Cohen, E. P. Tice, J. R. Dorney, Harry Goldsmith, ___, W. Corbett, C. J. Sullivan, F. Batterson, W. Shaw, W. Pfeiffer, Harry N. Holland, Joe Sullivan, Arthur R. Strain, Wm. Hayes, R. Van Horne, Bailey Eckmann, Peter McLaughlin, Chas. Parks, Wm. Dupont, W. Carter, Jas. H. Signaigo . . . W. H. Brownmiller, Jos. Lyons, W. M. Fisher, Arthur Manes, Tom Murphy, Frank Mayer, Chas. Loverick and Paul La Mount.
New York Clipper, June 2, 1906, p. 419. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Great Wagner Show. We opened our season under canvas May __, and the first performance went without a hitch. The show this year is larger and we carry more people than last season. Will play the larger towns and cities in Wisconsin and Illinois. We carry twenty people, a troupe of dogs and two Shetland ponies. We have a fine outfit, and will do everything in our power to make this one of the best little shows on the road.
From Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. Fine weather, big business and every department running as smoothly as clock work, is the pleasing report for the three opening weeks of the season with the New Model. All stands in Massachusetts proved big winners, and New Hampshire opened up big. At Orange and Winchedon large crowds were turned away. At the night performances at the latter place Prof. Perrino was severely injured by the large lioness, Spitfire, but he missed only one performance. Our ring performance is the strongest ever carried by the New Model, and the annex, under the management of Prof. Will T. Miller, always sends them out pleased. Business in this department has been big. We carry a band of fourteen men, featuring a select musical programme. Assistant manager Adam Gillespie has been ill for the past week but expects to be in harness again in a few days. Ed. H. Bell, superintendent of privileges, has just added a new wagon for his outfit.
A. C. Orcutt, business manager of Finn & Co.'s New United Shows, writes: "We opened our season at Hoosick Falls, May __, and packed them to the ring bank both nights. Col. Finn is an Elk, and his fellow members turned out in a body to give him a good send-off. We are still doing a big business. We are carrying fifty people, all told. Col. Thos. L. Finn is sole owner and manager; A. C. Orcutt, business manager; Chas. ___, leader of band and orchestra; Geo. Pickering, general agent; Edwin F. Wentworth, charge of second wagon; Mr. Gordon, in charge of side show; Jerry Newman, manager of concert; Bill Brennen, boss canvas man, with eight assistants; John Smith, boss hostler, with ten assistants; Skip Mathews, in charge of cook house, with four assistants.
Al. G. and Mazie Belford are in their sixth week with the Frank A. Robbins Circus, the feature in the concert.
Notes from Washburn & D'Alma's Trained Animal Shows. The executive staff has been changed since the opening. George Crabtree has taken charge of the advance forces with a corps of seven assistants. Business is at top notch. While at Mr. Vernon, N.Y., the crowd was so large that when the window was opened for the evening's sale the wagon was loosened from its anchorage and overturned on its side, much to the discomfort of treasurer Brownlee and his assistant, Jack Fellow, who was on the inside of the wagon expostulating with the eager crowd. The lamp was exploded and set fire to quite a bunch of greenbacks, and now manager Washburn is negotiating with the Treasury Department in an effort to get them redeemed. In the excitement the silver was scrambled for by the mischievous boys. Jack Fellow was sent to the hospital suffering from numerous painful burns and bruises, but it is hoped that a few weeks will find him on deck again. Treasurer Brownlee is nursing many bruises, but is still able to gather in the golden dollars and says he hopes they will continue to come in the same number all season. D. G. Markell is working on a new elephant act, which he says will eclipse anything ever attempted in this country, and will be able to put it before the public in four weeks more. The pig and goose circus is proving quite a success, and affords no end of amusement for the children. The Livingston Family of acrobats were visitors while playing South Norwalk. Everything is moving along with clock like precision, and all look forward to a very prosperous season through New England.
Notes from Campbell Bros.' Shows. Everything is progressing very nicely, and since our opening at Fairbury, Neb., April 28, we have had good business and splendid weather, with only one rainy day and one or two windy ones. We are offering a splendid performance this season. Chief among the features are: the Florence Troupe of acrobats, the Nichols Family, wire experts . . . Cecil Lowande, A. M. Davenport and many others.
Art Adair is en route with the Great Wallace Shows.
Frank Mills left the advance of the Pawnee Bill Show, at Rome, N.Y., to join the Walty Sisters Show, to take the song books.
New York Clipper, June 9, 1906, pp. 439, 443. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Reports from the Sells-Floto Shows announce a very nice business, considering the bad weather throughout the Northwest. They show at Denver June 18 and 19.
Robt. A. De Lisle writes from Fairview, Mich., as follows: "My wife, known as Esther Garwood, being ill, and the death of our child, compelled me to close the company known as De Lisle's Overland Circus, at Monroe, Mich. I have taken Mrs. De Lisle to our summer home at Fairview, near Detroit."
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Golden Mascot Railway Shows, now traveling in its own special palace railway coaches. Roster of band: Prof. Harry Heidley, band master; Geo. Small, solo cornet; Carl Campbell, first cornet; H. R. Heidley, clarinet; J. O. ___, slide trombone; J. R. Crocket, baritone; Jay Woods, alto; A. L. Snider; Frank Crockett. Performers: Dougherty Bros.; Prof. A. J. Miller's trained dogs; Prof. Oatman, equestrian director; Geo. Daugherty, pantomime clown; Chas. Cross, singing and talking clown; Geo. Daugherty, acrobatic clown; Hattie Richard, flying rings and concert; and Howard Bonheur's group of trained dogs, ponies and goats. Working people: Lou Bogardus, master of canvas; assistants - Charles ___, Herbert Bridge and Mack Porter . . . W. N. Whitmarsh, superintendent of stock . . . Charles Thompson, cook . . . Howard A. Bonheur, general manager; J. R. Bonheur, treasurer; A. G. Bonheur, advance adjuster; Pearl Bonheur, office assistant; Vern Stevens, bill poster and programmer. Business has been phenomenally good from the day we left winter quarters.
Prof. Perrino writes" "Have recently purchased a six months old lion, which I have placed in exhibition with the Al. F. Wheeler Show, in conjunction with a dog and lamb, all in one cage.
Notes from Finn's Circus. This is our fourth week out, and we have had good weather and good business. Decoration Day we turned them away at both performances. We have a band of fourteen pieces, headed by Chas. Coons . . . We have a troupe of six dogs, which are great favorites; twenty-five horses, six ponies, and three donkeys. . . . Our roster is as follows: Thos. Finn, owner and manager; Sylvester Newman, concert manager; Louis ___, one arm acrobat; Mr. Murray, comedian; Ackerman and ___, hand balancers and trapeze performers; ___ Gordon, equilibrist. Mr. Newman, clown; Marie Hayes, trapeze and rings; Earl and his trick bicycle act; R. Gordon, side show manager, assisted by Marie Gordon.
Notes from Society Circus. On Monday, May 28, Stimmel's Society Circus opened at Springfield, O., for the benefit of the K of P Lodge. Notwithstanding the inclement weather, people were turned away. Everything is new, from the marquee to the dressing top. . . . The roster of the show is as follows: . . . the Guthire Family, triple trapeze and Roman ladders; Wooley and Piers, aerial triple bars; Ben and Lewis, novelty ladders; Sinclair and Carlisle, double wire walkers; Bartone, contortionist; Samoyoa, cloud swing; Manuel, Roman rings; Wright and Cooper, barrel jumpers and novelty bar; Stapleton and ___, hat spinners, foot juggling and hoop rolling . . . Corrigan and Hayes, singing and dancing comedians . . . Kirby and Smith, knockabout clowns . . . ___ Cannon has charge of the side show . . . The Society Circus will show in Piqua, O., this week . . .
The Manolo Family, which closed with the Trevino Circus at the City of Mexico, May 28, have signed with the Cincinnati Amusement Co., at Lexington, Ky.
New York Clipper, June 16, 1906, p. 467. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Yankee Robinson Circus is the latest achievement seeking fame. It is now traveling through Southern Iowa, and has met with phenomenal business. It opened at Adel in May, and is now finising its fifth week. Fred Buchanan, owner; C. W. Buchanan, manager; James Segrist, assistant manager, and Everist Hayes, press representative, are among the directors of the enterprise. It is one of the larges wagon shows on the road, having twenty-one wagons, sixty-four head of horses, and a wll equipped menagerie, including an elephant, camels, lions, bears and monkeys.
George Arlington writes: "I beg to inform you that the firm of Arlington & Davis, caterers to Barnum & Bailey, was dissolved by mutual consent June 6. The business will be continued by me."
The Forepaugh-Sells' baseball team, under the management of Harry G. Lamkin, line up this season as follows: Jacobs, l.f.; Cornalla, 2d b.; ___, s.s.; La Mar, c.f.; Fisher, 3d b.; Egener, __ . . . La Van, r.f.; De Bolien, p.; Stayley, p.; Conners, p. The team is ready to play any circus nine.
From Cummins' Wild West. We wish to notify the friends of Billy Vogt that since he opened with the Cummins Wild West, he has not been able to do his work. We left him at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Mass., very ill with, we believe, some kind of kidney trouble. His friends connected with the show raised quite a sum, which we left with him, and we are going to send him more as soon as collected. This, however, may not last long, as his illness, we fear, may be prolonged. If any of his old friends wish to correspond with, or assist him, letter will reach him at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Mass.
Jack Cousins, equestrian manager of Frank A. Robbins Shows, will soon introduce some new riding acts.
Kid Koster has closed in advance of Cole Bros.' United Shows, and is resting in Detroit, Mich.
The Sensational Boises are this season one of the strong features of the Great Wallace show.
Roster of the side show with the Jones Enormous R. R. Shows: Al. Anderson, manager and orator; G. Burkhart, lecturer, Punch and magic; Mrs. G. Burkhart, mind reader; ?. Mexicano, lion act; Georgia Colored Minstrels, Chief Ki Ko Zulu, cat orchestra; Mr. and Mrs. Bickel, comedy boxing act; Lizzette, snake charmer; Miss Octavia, song and dance; ?. Burkhart, female impersonator; colored band of nine pieces; ?. Starr, doorkeeper; C. Edwards, J. McBride and Bill Smith, ticket sellers.
Straight talk from John Robinson's Ten Big Shows. It is strange that the dramatic papers and show folk so frequently get dates mixed regarding age, ownership and management of the John Robinson Circus. Recently an item went the rounds giving a man named Rogers as once a partner in the enterprise; also, that the present owner, John F. Robinson, was seventy years of age, and his son, the present manager, John G. Robinson, forty years old. Further that he show started in ___. No one named Rogers was ever partner. The writer evidently was thinking of Charles Rogers, of the old time Spaulding & Rogers Circus. There have only been two real partners in this business. The first was G. N. Eldred, and the other the well known Mr. Lake. Governor Robinson's present age is sixty-three and is son is thirty-four. "Uncle" John Robinson, who founded the show in 1821, this being its eighty-fifth year, retired from active management in ___, when the Governor took charge. Uncle John died in ___. The Governor is the Dean of the circus world. While there are perhaps older showmen in point of age, he is by all odds the oldest in point of active service, and even today is on the lot, looking after the interest of the big enterprise. He became absolute proprietor in 1871. He was born in the business, and at one time was one of the premier riders. His son, John G. Robinson, is the youngest circus manager in the world, and took the saddle as manager in 1896. John Robinson's Circus is the "daddy of them all." It was an old show wehn amny of the present day organizations was not thought of, and when the oldest of them were in swaddling clothes. This year's business has been phenomenal and the weather great, as to date we have only had three days of rain. Last season we were out until Dec. _, and the chances are we will go until Christmas this year.
Notes from the McDonald Bros.' Show. When we played Charleston, Tenn., some toughs from the mountains came in to "___ her down." A close watch was kept on them, and they were prevented from doing any harm 'till night, when they succeeded in cutting one of the main guy ropes, letting the pole fall in. The canvas men drove the men away after a short fight, in which one of the toughs was killed. The man who did the deed left for parts unknown, and Harry McDonald, one of the proprietors, was arrested for the crime, and the show attached for $10,000. At the hearing Mr. McDonald was released, only to be re-arrested on the same charge. He was tried before a justice who was a relative of the man killed, and bound over under $___ bond. As it was clearly a case of "hold up and shake down," Mr. McDonald concluded to give no bond, but had his lawyers institute a writ of habeas corpus, and the trial was at once begun. The case this time was heard by Judge ___ James, who passed in a verdict of "not guilty." The court room was packed at the time, and cheers arose when the verdict was given. The band wagon was manned at once and advertised the ___ for a performance that night. At night the tent was packed to capacity.
Notes from Joyce's Old Time Country Circus, J. ?. Joyce, proprietor. We are now on the finish of the second week on the road, and have been doing a phenomenal business at very stand, in many cases turning people away, the tent being too small for accommodate the vast crowds. The verdict is always the same, "The best and neatest wagon show on the road."
New York Clipper, June 23, 1906, p. 491. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Alpine Family are with the Sells-Floto Shows for the season.
Flying Merriam, aerial gymnast, has left vaudeville and has joined Seibel Bros.' World's Greatest Dog and Pony Show, to feature is aerial loop act in the concert.
Following is the roster of the Great Melburne Show: Harry Wintermute & Clarence H. Black, managers; Chas. Dryden, juggler and equilibrist; Juan Rozalez and Frank Malone, acrobats; C. H. Black, charge of the trained ponies and dogs; Geo. Schinnitt, clown and charge of trained bears. Musicians: F. L. Warren, A. W. Clair, Herman Roehnsche, H. Salisbury, Carl B. Frutchey. Others are: Mrs. C. H. Black, Hazel Black, Leighton Perry, Von Prathr, Earnest Larkins, ___ Reynolds, Hugh ___, Joy Zartman and Willie Luce. Joe Robothem and Lew Cole are in charge of the advance.
William Gilman, contracting agent of Campbell Bros.' Shows, has taken charge of the opposition work at Eau Claire, Wis., and Chippewa Falls, and these two towns are billed as big as paper and banners will do it. . . .
Notes from Finn's Big Shows. After four weeks in Vermont, we are now in New York State, and still doing a record business. Our last Friday night's move being twenty-three miles of sandy road, we did not expect to be able to show the next Saturday afternoon, but our business manager, Al. Orcutt, got everything over the road in record time, and ?. Brennan, our boss canvas man, had everything up and in readiness by noon, and we gave a show to a large audience. We have added to our big show, ___, the trained pig, in a looping the gap in an automobile. Our side show, under the management of ?. Gordon, is packing them both afternoon and night. We have two new features in the side show, a seventeen foot snake and six monkeys. Our concert, under Sylvester Newmann's car, is doing a fine business. As a feature of the concert, the Leonard Sisters are very successful. Mr. Finn, our manager, was given a surprise last week, when the company presented him with two ponies and a swell rig for his personal use.
Roster of the Cummins' Wild West car No. 2: ?. J. Layden, car manager; W. O'Brien, boss bill poster; Robert ___, lithos; Jake Beker, programmes; Frank Carter, banners; Frank ___, Lewis Snow, W. ___, Ed. Johnson, Geo. Harding, Kid Harris, Ed. Walch, Bert Dickson and Jack O'Leary.
"Happy" Jack Sutton, Barnum's original cowboy, writes from Havana: "The cut of the Barnum letterhead of 1883, in last week's Clipper, brings to mind my first night. We opened the last of March, that year, with a Congress of Nations, and the original Wild West as a drawing feature. I was engaged at Greeley, Col., at that time a great cattle centre, to produce life on the plains, with real cowboys and genuine Indians. I had never been closer to an audience than a fair ground, but having two weeks' rehearsal at Bridgeport, before coming to N. Y. City, and a week in the garden, I fancied I could catch anything from a rat to an elephant. The opening night showed a packed house. Mr. Barnum made is pantomimic speech. His partners, Mr. Bailey and Mr. Hutchinson, and Frank Hyatt and Bill Smith, were anxious about my part of the programme. I was supposed to catch a girl in front of the reserved seats after a general fight with cowboys and Indians. I felt that my lasso was heavy, and my horse seemed to be tumbling. The bell rang, the gate flew open, some one yelled 'go on, Sutton,' and I went, but I saw about twenty girls and horses. I was swinging the rope around my head, but could not let go. As I passed the back gate someone spoke in a thundering voice, 'throw that rope.' That brought me to my senses. I threw, and by more good luck than science, caught the girl and got out as fast as possible. They all gave me the laugh, but I made good in 1883 and 1884 with the same acts."
New York Clipper, June 30, 1906, p. 511. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Sells-Foto items. Ever since reaching Colorado the shows have been doing an enormous business. In fac, it began at Cheyenne, the Greeley, Fort Collins and Boulder all turned out en masse. The Denver engagement of two days was the record breaker in the show's history. . . . The show grounds in Denver were in the heart of town, almost independent of the street car lines, and barely large enough for the big top and side shows, so the stalls, cook tent, etc., were placed near by. In consequence of the close proximity of hte circus to thousands of residents, the big top was filled to overflowing at all four exhibitions, and the side shows never before did such a packed all day business. At Colorado Springs, the real prince of India, the Maharajah of Gockwar, now on his travels out here, was a visitor, with his suite, guests of the Antlers hotel management. . . . At Cripple Creek and Pueblo the show's attendance was even larger than last year. The Daily Star Journal, at Pueblo, purchased six thousnd children's tickets, at regular prices, and gave them to the paper's juvenile readers. This is the first time in circus history where a newpaper bought out an entire circus exhibition for one afternoon.
The Three Greaus are with the Carl Hagenbeck Greater Shows, Mrs. De Greau in the big ballet, and the Three De Greaus as a feature of the grand concert. The show is doing a tremendous business everywhere.
The Rivards have joined Starrett's Society Shows, doing their revolving ladder act and double trapeze. Chas. Hopper, singing and talking clown, is with the Starrett Show, making his third season with this attraction.
Notes from Hargreaves' Circus. We are playing to standing room all along the line. Chas. O'Brien, the principal clown, has them all going. He has twenty clowns, and no matter what O'Brien is doing he can tell any one that renages. So they work great. At Whitehall, N.Y>, O'Brien was presented with a charm made of ivory, by Frank Blair, mayor of Whitehall.
Albert P. Smith is recuperating at his home at Hartford, Conn., from a broken knee, which he received while doing the high jump from the fire and flame building of the Cummins' Wild West Exhibition.
Fletcher Smith is now in his ninth week with the Frank A. Robbins Circus, playing the big four-and-a-half octave steam piano, built expressly for this show, and selling sideshow tickets.
John G. Robinson, manager of the John Robinson Circus, left June 23 for Tampa, Fla., to negotiate for the transportation of the circus to Cuba for a tour of that country this winter. Business is big in the West.
Notes from Jas. A. Morrow's Pavilion Shows. This aggregation is now touring the State of Pennsylvania, and although rain has visited our route and remained with us for over three weeks, we have had S. R. O. and turnaway business, and the prospects look good for a successful season. This is without a doubt one of the neatest small outfits on the road. We carry twenty-four head of fine stock, eight baggage wagons, two passenger wagons, and manager Morrow's private team. In advance we use a two-horse wagon, highly decorated, and three men. The roster: Jas. A. Morrow, proprietor and manager; Geo. B. Beckley, contracting agent; ?. J. Deane, bill poster; Martin Quick, lithographer and programmer; Geo. Provonchey, treasurer; ___ Morrow, ticket agent; Dan Travers, superintendent; Wm. Burke, lights; Tom Granger, boss hostler; Fred Fingers, properties; La Eolis Morrow, the Two Lindsays, Dan mUrdock, Coburn and Grenache, Balancing Stevens, the Two Davenports, ___, Eolis, and Prof. Irwin's Dog and Monkey Circus. Arthur Davenport and ten high class musicians furnish the music for band and orchestra. We have not missed a single performance so far, and all are "happy as the birds in May."
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. We have just finished our eighth week of the present season, and business has been the best ever enjoyed by the New Model. Four States have been visited in this short space and many big jumps made over all kinds of roads, still our stock is as fresh as at the opening day, being under the watchful eye of veterinary, "Doc" W. H. Murdock. Geo. Wood is superintendent, and all visiting showmen concede that we have the swiftest handled show of its size they have ever seen. Assistant manager Adam Gillespie has entirely recovered from his recent illness, and is again on deck, and as busy as a bee. Our performance this season is fully up to the New Model standard, and we have yet to receive our first adverse criticism . . . W. A. Turner, trap drummer, joined at Hallowell, Me.
Notes from the Great Aiton & Anderson Show. Thos. Aiton & C. E. Anderson, sole owners and managers. This show is carrying twelve cars and opened the season May __, at Utica, N.Y. It showed New York and Pennsylvania for three weeks, and then went into Canada for four weeks, going out through Michigan on its way to the coast. The show has done some of the biggest business in it history, playing daily to two packed tents, and at five or six places turnaway at both performances. C. W. Back is general agent, with Wm. Aiton local contracting agent.
New York Clipper, July 7, 1906, p. 538. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Great Mundy Shows. Despite the fact that we have had a day or two of rain each week the shows have been doing good business. After seven successful weeks in Illinois we go into Wisconsin, and then back again into Illinois. General manager A. P. Whitney is leaving a host of friends behind in each city where we exhibit, and the press speaks laudable words in relation to our meritorious exhibitions. Our free attractions consist of Diavolo, looping the death trap loop, and Arthur Holden's backward dive from the summit of a ninety-two foot ladder into a four foot tank of water. Our feature show is "The Society Circus," in which the following performers display their abilities: Bernardo and O'Neill, revolving ladder act; Marvelous Kelly, backward ladder drops; Eddie Martyne, bounding wire act; ___ Alton, head balancing trapeze; the Aberns, hand balancers and equilibrists; Hindoo Sam, Oriental magic, and Sheperd Owen's hazardous feat of riding down a steep incline on an ordinary bicycle, and leaping the gap of thirty feet through a flame of fire sixteen feet in height. The roster of the executive staff is as follows: A. P. Whitney, general manager; Roger Flint, superintendent; H. E. Van Gordon, treasurer; L. A. Raymond, secretary; L. C. Zelleno, press agent; Chas. Z. Mikesell, contracting agent; E. V. Bliss, Harry Hardy and George Rich, promoters. Col Black, master of construction; Alex. Jones, master of transportation, and Jules Wiggins, Carl Ziegler and J. C. Wolfe, general announcers.
New York Clipper, July 14, 1906, p. 566. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Executive staff of the Frank A. Robbins Shows. Fred Beckman, general agent; Dave H. Haley, contracting agent; W. M. Goodwin, manager advance car No. 1; C. W. Coleman, manager advance car No. 2; Lillian Coleman, excursion and mailing agent. Roster of car No. 2: Harry Cooke, Local No. 6, boss bill poster; A. B. ___, banners; C. W. Chubb, local No. 6, chief excursion bill poster; Cornelius Murray, Local No. 2; Wm. Galagher Local No. 30; John Tracy, Local No. 17; Wm. Smith, Local No. 4, billposters; R. E. Lapointe, chef; Chas. Cunningham, porter.
Russ W. Carter closed recently with the Jack Manley Show, and is with the Dode Fisk Circus, as principal clown.
Finn Show notes. We have been out eight weeks and are still doing good business. While in ___, we had a severe blowdown about six o'clock, but our boss of canvas got everything up in time to give the night show. The storm did considerable damage to the big top, but manager Finn is getting a new and much larger one, as the old one is not large enough. We also lost one of our horses a week ago, with colic. Charley Cameron joined the side show Monday, June 2, adn we now have one of the strongest side shows on the road. Mr. Barker, our baritone player, keeps us laughing all week, till the Old Reliable come, then you can find cannot get a word out of him till he reads it through. Sylvester Newman, our clown, was called home last week. His mother died a few days after his arrival at Home. We expect him back in a few days. Our roster is the same as when we started out.
Tuttle Show notes. We have been out since May 5, and have been playing Pennsylvania ever since, to fine business. Our banner town so far was Export, Pa., where we played to S. R. O. Everyone connected with the show is enjoying good health. Jos. Canfield, our popular songster and professor of music, enjoyed a very pleasant trip to Dubois, Pa., not long ago, in company with Bones. Fred Martin, our juggler and contortionist, is making good at every performance, as are also the Thardos and little Paul, our boy singing clown.
Gardner, West and Sunshine have joined Barnum & Bailey Circus to do their act in the concert.
Roster of car No. 1, Cole Bros.' United Shows. Harry F. Curtis, car manager; Chas. Martin, local No. 6, boss bill poster; Chas. Chapman, local No. 16, lithographer; M. Edwards, local No. 10, banner man; S. H. Jones, Frank Brusso, local No. 5; Ed. Feeney, C. E. Anderson, local No. 16; Homer Hall, local No. 24; Clyde Kent, local No. 1; P. Maloy, Geo. Coyle, alliance; ___, W. E. Brown, local No. 14; Harry Nemer, programmer; Roy Hall, porter; F. J. Krause, local No. 6, steward.
Notes from Cole Bros.' Shows. Kid Koster and his No. 1 opposition brigade arrived in Francis City, Mich., June 20, doing the country and town against the Van Amburg Show. Roster of brigade: Bert Foster, Clyde Kent, Milo Edwards, E. C. ___, Mick Jones, Frank Brusso, Wm. Corbett, __ Wheeler and Chas. A. Koster. The brigade has twenty opposition stands in Michigan.
Note from the Forepaugh-Sells Shows. The Dunedin Troupe, 'cyclists, now performing with the shows, are one of the principal attractions. Their tricks on bicycles are acknowledged by the public and press in every town they appear as marvelous. They have been taught and trained by the famous Australian athlete, Jas. E. Donegan, the winner of one hundred and fifty matches at jumping, running and vaulting with the pole. His son, professionally known as Jimmie Dunedin, won the champion one mile race last year on the bicycle at Music Hall sports, Herne Hill, London, and Maudie Dunedin, won the one hunfred yards ladies' race. They hold contracts for the London Pavilion and Oxford Music Halls, London.
Bert Marks wishes to state that he will assume the name of Bert Howe hereafter, introducing his new novelty act, "The Funny Hey Rube," now with the Hargreaves Show, and is booked solid for next season.
Notes from the Bert Silver Circus. All are well with this show, and we are doing a fine business. We have not lost a performance this season, have had no incidents, and the "ghost" hasn't even missed a Sunday. We carry thirty people, twenty-eight horses, eight wagons and two cars. The Silver family will put out a twenty wagon show next season, on the same route. The Silver Shows have for the past twenty five years always made good, and return dates are called for. We have fourteen circus acts, all good; four animal acts, the Silver Family band and orchestra of ten pieces (of which eight are in our family), playing standard music, and bringing people from town to the lot in droves. At Hopkins' Station, Mich., July 4, we could not possibly accommodate the crowd in our 100ft. top.
The Irwins (Wm. J., Mille and Kitty May) will close with the Kennedy Bros. Wild West, after eight months' engagement, and will rest for a week at their home, Guthrie, Okla.
Mlle. Hilda reports meeting with success with the Sells & Floto Show.
James E. Donegan writes: "A little boy, Harold Spencer Dunedin, engaged at the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Show, as 'cyclist, was left at Baraboo, Wis., Thursday night, July 6. It is supposed the boy was kidnapped by one or two of the grooms, who disappeared from that show the same night. The boy is an English lad, born in Birmingham, and is apprenticed to the Dunedin Troupe. Anyone giving information to Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Show will be handsomely rewarded. The boy is about fourteen years old, wears knickers and cap, and can ride a bicycle and skate well."
Wm. Vesta is successfully clowning with the Wallace Show.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. Prof. Perrino, lion tamer with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows, was seriously injured at Phillips, Me., July 6, by the big lioness, "Spitfire." Perrino had just entered the cage when the animal sprang upon him, bearing him to the floor. Attendants from the outside fought the animal back, but before the trainer could escape from the cage the enraged beast had pounced upon him a second time, badly lacerating both his legs, while one of his hands was chewed to a pulp. Perrino was finally rescued, more dead than alive, and physicians were immediately summoned, and the man's wounds dressed. While seriously injured, he will probably recover.
New York Clipper, July 21, 1906, pp. 590, 591. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Antonio Pubillones reports great success with his tours through Cuba and Central America. This year he will run two first class circus and variety companies in Central America and Columbia, and also three other companies for the Island of Cuba, making in all five companies under his personal direction and management. At present Mr. Pubillones is touring through the great Panama Canal, and writes that he is enjoying great success. The principal opera house, the National, or the Tacon, of the City of Havana, has been engaged by him for the season of 1906-1907. Mr. Pubillones will open there the first week in November. Mr. Pubillones will arrive in New York about the beginning of September. Johnny Harrison will be in New York in August, to arrange all contracts, etc. All the different companies will begin their seasons between November and the middle of December.
Alexander Lowande Jr., son of A. A. Lowande, died at the Willard Parker Hospital, New York, June 28,of diphtheria, at the age of four years, after a four weeks illness. The deceased boy sang at the Harlem Baptist Church, at the age of three, and was a great favorite with all its members.
Notes from the Carl Hagenbeck Show. The Curon Sisters, "Flying Butterflies," are scoring immense success with this show, which is doing phenomenal business. They inform us that their act is proclaimed by newspapers as the most sensational, unique and startling aerial performance to be seen with any show. W. B. Herrod (clown) and wife are enjoying success. Mrs. Herrod's trained cockatoos prove a strong feature of the immense side show.
Roster of the Great Wallace Show, advance car No. 2: Dan DeBaugh, manager; ___, charge of paper. Billposters: ___ McKinney, H. Milton, I. A. Meyers, H. Smith, Joe Cars, Clarence Graves, Barry Leslie, T. S. Thompson, John Mulvihill, Tom ___, Wm. Cain, Mike Powers, Tom Burman. Walter Nissen, charge of banners, assisted by Al. North and Dick Mayer, C. S. Wright, porter.
Notes from Gollmar Bros.' Shows. Bert E. Turner, comedy juggler, is now en route with this show, and following are clowns: Harry Brandon, W. E. Donahugh, Bert E. Turner, Bert Smith, W. S. Griffith, Swifty ___, Geo. Wyman, Dick ___, Eckhoff Bros., Harlam Manikin adn Ollie Gustad. After the evening performance at Lakota, N. Dak., the following people were the guests of honor at a large banquet given by ___, the ever popular president of the People's National Bank of Lakota: Fred J. Warrell, adjuster; the Nelson Family, aerialists . . . W. S. Griffith, bar performer; Harry Wertz, assitant equestrian director, and Haines twenty-four hour man. . . . long jump into Langdon, where we were to show the following day.
The big ballet, under the direction of Mlle. Rose-Edyth, with the Carl Hagenbeck Shows, is now in its third month, with few changes and no calamities. Roster is as follows: "Garland Ballet," premiere Danseuse, Mlle. Rose-Edyth . . . Fanny Bradshaw, Myrtle Halsey, Ella Webb, Sara Hackett, May Kennedy, Flo Richmond, Edna Edwards, Emme Keely, Lucille Bradford, ___. Coryphees: Misses Crawford, Henchy, Neil, Oliphant, Ingalls, Rhodes, Wayne Macarts, La Mothe, Cutt, Wilson and De Sola. Sious Indian ballet: Misses ___, Kennedy, Keely, Edwards, Hackett and Bradshaw. Ballets staged by Mlle. Rose-Edyth, costumes by Mme. Thompson, music by C. Z. Bronson. Great preparation is being made for the Chicago engagement, two weeks, beginning July 16.
Bud Horn, "the Calliope King," of the Pawnee Bill Wild West Show, is at his post again after an illness of ten days with a case of "grip." Bud, who is a feature with the Wild West Show, is the oldest living calliope player, being in the business thirty-three years.
Mack and Allen are meeting with success doing their black face singing and talking act in the concert of the Frank A. Robbins Shows.
Downing and Downing report meeting with gratifying success with the Washburn & D'Alma Trained Animal Show.
Notes from Schmitt & Sareender's Novelty Circus. We pulled up stakes from Little Coney Island, N.J., where we have been holding forth until last week, and at present are touring through New Jersey. We have a brand new outfit, complete, with 40x80 top. Ja. A. Lacentra, who was manager for Dick Turner's Show, holds the same position with us. The roster: Schmitt & Sareender, proprietors; J. A. Lacentuva, manager; Mrs. ?. Schmitt, treasurer . . . We carry a band of twelve pieces, under the leadership of Al. Hinchcliffe. We have been doing good business, everybody is happy, and we are heading our tents due South for the winter season.
Mrs. Geo. Kidd, of the Kidds, with Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Circus, mourns the loss of her mother, who died July __, at her home in Chicago. Mrs. Kidd, who returned to her mother's home before the latter died, will rejoin the show in about ten days.
Guy Fritz, of the Kemp Sisters' Wild West and Indian Congress, mourns the death of his sister, Trixie Fritz, who died July 12, at . . . Pittsburg, Kan.
The following changes have been made in the roster of the Main-Cummins Wild West and Circus. A. J. Dixon has superceded Ben Walcott as twenty-four hour man, Harry Overton, contracting agent in advance. The following is a complete corrected list of the officials: Walter L. Main, president and general manager; Frederick T. Cummins, general manager; W. Ferguson, general agent; Herman Thielen, secretary; Charles Phillips, general press agent; Tom L. Wilson, assistant press representative; A. Westfall, assistant press representative; Owen W. ___, assistant press representative; Wm. W. Power, assistant manager and treasurer; Wm. Vogt, assistant treasurer; Wm. Wells, assistant treasurer; Paul W. Harrell, director advance car No. 1; ___ J. Layden, director, advance car No. 2; S. C. Moss, manager advance car No. 3; E. B. Powers, route rider; Harry Clarke, in charge programme advertising; J. Zimmern, advertising solicitor; and H. Stanley Lewis, advertising solicitor.
No. 1 opposition brigade, in advance of Cole Bros.' Shows, closed at Big Rapids, Mich., July 4, and the boys have signed for the winter season as follows: Clyde Kent, Great Northern Theatre, Chicago; Kid Koster, general agent for one of Elmer Walters' attractions; Bert Foster, Century Theatre, St. Louis; Foster McLeod, Russell Bill Posting Co., Chicago . . . Chas. Bowers, agent for one of ___ & Harris' attractions . . . and Milo Edwards, with Shubert Bros.' enterprises.
When the Sells-Floto Shows exhibited recently in Pueblo, Col., the Pueblo Star-Journal extended an invitation to all children under nine years of age to be its guests, and the tents were crowded. The newspaper paid $500 for the tickets. . . .
Notes from the Great Mundy Shows. We spent the Fourth in Kenosha, Wis., where we exhibited that week under the auspices of Uniform ___, NO. 30, Knights of Pythias. The numerous carved fronts were decorated with flags of various nations, and above them the starts and strips fluttering in the breeze. A pyrotechnic disply in the evening brought over ___ people to the grounds, who enjoyed the beautiful display of fireworks. Arthur Holden, who makes the high dive and does the loop the loop under the ___ of Diavolo, had charge of the display, and as he lighted the different kinds of firework they caused the spectators to murmur words of appreciation. At 10:30 the last skyrocket was shot heavenward, and Diavolo was announced to ride the death trap loop. After looking over his paraphernalia he ascended the loop incline, mounted his bicycle, and started down the incline at a rapid rate. He came into the death dealing trap which stood confronting him. He went over the spring without the bicycle catching it. The spectators realized that the death trap had failed to perform its duties, and a groan came from the crowd and several women fainted. Two physicians were summoned to the scene, and about fifteen minutes after the accident, Holden became conscious, but refused to be taken to the hospital. A careful examination found that no bones had been broken, but he was badly bruised and it will be several days before he will again resume the dare devil feats.
New York Clipper, July 28, 1906, p. 610. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Great Aiton & Anderson Show. Thos. Aiton and C. E. Anderson left for New York to get new wardrobe, parade stuff and some animals for their show. They want to make this one of the best twelve car shows on the road. They expect to open their two road shows early in September (the Eastern and wester "Pipe the Game") companies. George Coyle, business manager of the No. 2 company, is now in Chicago, booking the tour. C. R. Cydman has joined as special agent of the circus.
Pawnee Bill's Wild West and Great Far East was damaged by a gale of wind, which struck it in Bayonne, N.J., July 17. The tents were all down flat, and some of the animals got loose. One camel was killed and another hurt, and this was practically all the serious damage done, although Pawnee Bill hurt his shoulder trying to save a woman and her child being struck by a pole.
Notes and roster from the Excelsior Carnival Co., of New York. Week of July 23 we open at Summit, N.J., our fourteenth week. . . . Staff: W. S. Miller, manager; R. L. Chantrell, assistant manager; Geo. R. Doremus, master of transportation, ?. Kennedy, chief electrician; Joe Smith, boss canvas man; Tommy Duel, master of properties; L. Green, advertising agent; Al. Weise, twenty-four hour man; Prof. Peterson, leader of band. We carry one hundred and two people, and spread over four acres - thirty-two tents and side attractions. The following is the list of our attractions: The Excelsior Bijou Circus, 70ft. round top, with two 40ft. middle pieces, presenting the following acts: Mlle. Ednarrol, lady ring master; Billy Lowanda, acrobatic clown and cakewalking pony, "Nellie"; Nellie ___, on flying trapeze; Dick Chantrell, singing clown; Crero Bros., acrobats and hand balancers; Tom Wilson, the Dutch juggler; Mlle. Lowanda and her trick pony, "Joe"; "Rube" Harry Landers, rube clown, and troupe of Trakan stallions; Prof. Peterson's cornet band of nine pieces. . . .
The Tasmanian Troupe has joined the Frank A. Robbins Show for the remainder of the season.
New York Clipper, August 4, 1906, p. 640. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
W. L. Main gives the following reasons for wishing to dispose of his interest with the Cummins Show: "When the Cummins Wild West Exposition was formed, I interested myself in the company to the extent of eighty big draught horses that were leased to the Hagenbeck Show last Summer; also a troupe of performing elephants, known as 'Power's.' I also leased to the company my elegant winter quarters at Geneva, O. Mr. Cummins was to furnish his Wild West paraphernalia, stage coaches, guns, mules, etc., and the third owner some elegant sleeping cars and other property, and was also to manage the aggregation. The remainder of the property was to be billed new. I engaged the general agent and financial representative, as I was tired and out of the show business, and never had any idea of traveling again. But when winter was over, one of the directors, who was to be the manager, sold his interest to me, and I traveled with the show, to get it organized, which I have done, and have left the show, and at this writing am at home. If I were anxious and cared to travel, I wouldn't think of selling."
The roster of the No. 2 car, of the Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows is as follows: R. Woods, car manager; F. J. Riley (Happy), Bert Moore, Fred Bowers, D. A. Patterson, Tom Carroll, Wm. Lanham, Ed. Barton, Chas. Withnell, N. T. Lewis, C. J. ___, lithos . . . Harry Davis, banners, while Samuel Snipe, of Savannah, presides over the kitchen. At Pontiac, last Tuesday, six of our men took "French leave," making us short handed until new men can be secured.
Notes from the Pawnee Bill's Wild West and Great Far East. Since taking the road, after our engagement at Brighton Beach, we have been playing the most phenomenal business in our history. At Easton, Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, Pa., thousands were turned away, and even at Catasauqua, Honesdale, Carbondale and Pittston, Pa., capacity business has been the rule. . . . The gatttling gun drill is one of the most sensational military acts ever seen, the mantling and dismantling of the gun and the rapid discharge of the gun while in action completes an act that is full of snap and vim from start to finish, and never failes to arouse the audience to intense enthusiasm. The privileges since leaving Brighton Beach have done an immense business, and ___ Wilson is wearing the smile that won't come off. The roster of the side show is as follows: H. G. Wilson, manager and orator, assisted on the front by Allan Pearce, who makes second openings; Geo. Baldwin, box No. 1; Geo. Tarbox, box No. 2, and Harry Markwood, box No. 3. King Cole has charge of the inside, and the performance runs as follows: Wild Rose, the Yucatan woner; Mrs. H. G. Wilson, mind reader; Mrs. King Cole, snake trainer; T. A. Tatro, strong man; M. H. Handy, juggler; Tommy Hayes, aerial gymnast; Van ___, on the bounding rope; South Sea Island Joe and wife, ___ Mangalas Troupe of Singhalese, Lamaar and ___'s Chinese opium den exposed,Leon Foster, female impersonator; the Australian boomerang throwers; Simms and Heath, musical act, and King Cole, magician and vertriloquist. The front has fourteen 12x22 paintings, and the immense patronage this department receives daily is proff positive that Mr. Wilson has secured a series of attractions that appeal to the public. . . .
Ricardo Bell, of the Grand Circo Ricardo Bell, is in New York, making arrangements for the next season. J. Harry Allen is booking acts for the show.
Notes from Bert Silver's New Tent Shows. At Crystal Lake, July 20, while Stone and Hamp were making the high wire ascension, the outside attraction with the show, the wire parted while Mr. Stone was doing a head stand in their passing act, and they both fell nearly twenty feet. Mr. Stone striking on his head, and left shoulder, inflicting quite serious damage to his back, and breaking his left forearm. We had to leave him in the doctor's care there. At the last report he was getting along as well as could be expected. We did not show on account of the accident, this being the first performance this show has missed this season so far. The show has been doing a phenomenal business.
New York Clipper, August 11, 1906, p. 669. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Harry Hanson writes: "I am now in my fourteenth week with the Hargreaves Circus (under the management of John Welsh), and have twelve weeks more before opening my vaudeville engagements on Nov. _. Bert Howe, rube character, leaves us at Oldtown, Me., Aug. 4, to join the Hi Henry Minstrels.
Roster advance of Campbell Bros.' Shows: A. G. Campbell, general agent, Wm. Gilman, contracting agent; W. H. Querrett, special agent; C. C. Fletcher, special agent; Geo. Allen, manager car No. 1; Frank Campbell, manager car No. 2; C. C. Pettengill, twenty-four hour man; Wm. Burhart, route rider. Everything ahead of this show is in the best condition, and the boys always look forward to good, warm opposition.
Roster of the No. 4 car of the Pawnee Bill Show is as follows: R. M. Simons, manager car 4; W. Winn, boss bill poster; J. Cummings, boss lithographer; A. Taylor, boss banner man . . . Geo. Vanderslive, J. Hanford, W. Craab, Al. Powell, S. Moyley and F. McCarthy, bill posters; W. Connors, lithographer; Texas Jack, banner man; J. Murphy, programmer; J. Rockfeller, chef; Ed. Hart, porter.
Dr. E. H. De Alva, of the De Alva's Shows writes: "I am up in Manitoba for the summer, and business is good with my concert company . . . There has been a lot of trouble over circus licenses here of late, and it is not settled yet. My circus, De Alva's Little Old Fashioned Show, under the management of McQuinn & Bell, has been doing a great business, and will be enlarged for next season. . . .
Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Show. This show was sold some four weeks ago to Geo. W. Loudon, of Greenville, Pa. The show will continue to use the title of Tuttle's Olympic Show for the rest of this season only. Mrs. A. F. Tuttle has been managing this small, but well known attraction for the past fifteen seasons, and the show has gained the reputation of being one of the best wagon shows on the road. The new manager, Mr. Loudon, has been under the instruction, for the past four weeks, of Mrs. Tuttle, and he says her services have been very useful to him. Mr. and Mrs. Tuttle left the show at Claysville, Pa., for their winter quarters at Linesville, Pa., where they will be pleased to hear from all of their old performers at any time.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. We have just finished our fourteenth week, and business has been the best ever enjoyed by these shows. We have been among the summer resorts of the White Mountains for the past two weeks, and capacity business has been the rule at nearly all stands. . . .
The Pawnee Bill Show had a severe blowdown afternoon of Monday, Aug. 6, at Harrisburg, Pa., during the performance, and it was reported that two people were killed and many were injured. A severe thunderstorm struck the lot, accompanied by a high wind, and the tent was finally struck by lightning, which killed a Japanese trouper. The lightning also killed a spectator. It is stated that May Lillie, of the show, and Sigmond ___ and William Harris, attaches, were also hurt. Every tent except the dressing tent was razed by the wind and a panic was started, which was quelled by the circus force.
New York Clipper, August 18, 1906, p. 720. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Mrs. C. I. Norris, wife of C. I Norris, circus owner, writes: "I am not dead, but am well and happy at my very pretty home in Santa Cruz, Cal. Mr. Norris has been receiving letters of sympathy from his many friends in the show business, and I wish to let them know that the report of my death is a mistake."
Flying Merriam, at the close of the tenting season, will open on the Novelty circuit. He writes that his act is the hit of the concert with Seibel Bros.' Dog and Pony Show.
Kit Karson writes: "Am with Cummins' Wild West, and making a pronounced hit; now in my sixth week."
Frances Lloyd, for four years a member of the Spooner Stock Co., in Brooklyn, is enjoying an unusual summer vacation. When the Pawnee Bill Wild West left Brooklyn on July 15 Miss Lloyd left with it, and is now traveling with the show as a guest of May Lillie.
Hilderra, aerialist, who is in her thirteenths week with the Louden & Tuttle Olympic Show, will, at the close of the season, join hands with Jos. Canfield, to produce a new act in vaudeville. They will be known as Canfield and Hilderra. They have been out with the show since May 5, and have been showing Western Pennsylvania, to good business.
Conger and Odin report success with Hargreaves' Railroad Shows.
A. C. Orcutt, business manager of Finn & Co.'s New United Shows, writes: "We are in our fourteenth week, and doing a great business. We showed at Sharon Springs last week, to a turnaway business, both afternoon and night. We are now in the Catskills, where we will spend a few weeks, and then head for the sunny South. We expect to eat our Christmas dinner either in North or South Carolina, when manager Finn will close for a few weeks, to put things in shape for next season, when we expect to go out larger and brighter than ever, and everything will be brand new. We now have a concert band of twelve pieces, and the people where we show are talking about it as being the best circus band they ever heard. Every one is happy, as the 'governor' calls them up every Tuesday and hands them their envelopes. Earl Phillips, hoop roller, and Prof. ___, with his troupe of dogs, joined last week."
The Frank A. Robbins Circus had an accident during the performance evening of Saturday, Aug. 11, at the beach near Far Rockaway, L. I. The seating platform in the crowded tent collapsed, and many spectators were injured.
New York Clipper, August 25, 1906. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Jimmy Rose announces that he has closed with Pawnee Bill's Wild West and signed for forty weeks with Haveryl's Minstrels.
Rippel Show notes. Business in Indiana and Michigan has been big, although we have had thirty-three days of rain since opening on May 17. We have enlarged our show since opening, and will add eight cages next season. Our winter quarters will remain in Frankfort, Ind. We are in a stretch of country where is is hard to get a copy of the Clipper, or even a daily paper. It is the Kandakee swamps of Indiana.
Sells-Floto Show notes. As the last big "adv" in the Clipper stated, this show will have a long season, remaining on the road until Christmas. The Famous Eddy Family has been added to the programme, with makes it very strong and entertaining. A cloudburst at Moberly, Mo., Aug. 10, immediately after the parade, did more damage up town, among the business houses, than out at the show grounds, where two exhibitions were given, to fair attendance. From Omaha, through Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, Idaho, Montana and the Dakotas, the show met with a perfect ovation. The weather was fine, and the receipts largest in the show's history. The Clipper reaches us early and promptly each week, through the circus postmaster, to the extent of one hundred and eighty-five copies. Fred Jewell, the bandmaster, has lately added orchestral chimes to the musical program - his own invention - and his creative genius places this department on an entirely new plane in circus melody.
Notes from Frank Layo Show. We are in our fifteenth week, and we are doing a very profitable business. This is our fourth season over the same route, and we are given a welcome everywhere we go. We carry a sixty foot round top and a thirty foot middle piece, with horse tent and dresser. Plans have been made for a larger outfit for next season. Our roster is: Pete Doncette, acrobatic clown; the Laflure Bros., aerialists; Louis Laventure, dancer and hoop roller; the Zentos, handcuffs and rope work; Lulu Jackson, singer; Devon, juggler; Levi Perkin, slack wire; Comery Sisters, double traps; Frank Layo, backward drops, and E. Clark, advance agent.
Notes from Frank A. Robbins Circus. The Tasmanian Troupe has joined us for the season. On the occasion of the thirty-sixth birthday of manager C. W. Coleman, of advance car No. 2, he was the receipient of many handsome presents, including a diamond ring from his wife, Lillian May Coleman; a beautiful silver Gillette safety razor, from W. M. Goodwin, manager of advance car No. 1, and a solid gold locket from the following men on his car: John Tracy, A. B. Harms, Mike Murphy, Harry Whiting, Wm. Smith and Frank Carroll. Our season so far has been most successful and very pleasant and we are all looking forward to a long season South.
The Great United Show notes, Aiton & Anderson, managers. We are still doing a big business in Michigan and Indian. C. E. Anderson returned from New York with several new features for the show. Our show seems to take people by storm, and in the towns we play the people say this is the swellest and newest show that they have seen. Aiton & Anderson want to make this one of the leading twelve car shows on the road.
Roster of Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows: Al. F. Wheeler, owner and manager; Mrs. A. F. Wheeler, treasurer; Leon Yeaton, general contracting agent; F. J. Frink, special agent; Jas. Ball, boss bill poster, with four bill posters; Chas. E. Shepard, lithos and banners, with one assistant; "Blacky" Hartnett, superintendent of canvas, with twelve men; Len Young, boss hostler, with fourteen men; Horace Prentiss, boss property man, with three assistants; Ed. H. Bell, superintendent of privileges and concert tickets; O. Calloutter, reserved seast tickets. Performers: Albert Gaston, principal clown and equestrian director; the Zeachs (Curvin and Nellie), aerialists; Major Callouette, unicycle on wire and baton juggler . . . Albert Gaston, Al. F. Wheeler Jr. and Frank Belmont, clowns, and Wheeler's troupe of performing ponies, mules and dogs, handled by Jos. Tracey; band of twelve pieces, and orchestra of seven; M. Zednay, superintendent of annex; the Zednays, Oriental wonder workers; Capt. Saunders's untamable lion act; Cleo, snake charmer; Prof. Leon, Punch and magic; Dover, midget horse and five cages of animals; Ed. H. Bell, in charge of concert; Bell and Alimon, comedians; Frank Clark and Daisy Belmont. O. A. Barry, our popular chef, always supplies us with the best the market affords, and all are well and happy, looking forward to our Southern trip.
New York Clipper, September 1, 1906, p. 741. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Fred ___, of the Sells-Forepaugh Show, writes from Seattle, Aug. 16: "The last four weeks we have been turing people away afternoons and nights. Our business here is enormous. They closed the ticket wagon at 7:30 last night, and the tent for today sold out for both shows. In Spokane two seals were born. Capt. Weble is very pleased with them. The Dollar Troupe is re-engaged for next season with the Forepaugh-Sells Circus, also Fred Egener, the famous clown. Everybody with the show is in good health. We have had no sickness to speak of, but Mrs. Dollar has been very sick for the last two weeks. She will be in the act again by the time we get to Oregon. Guy La Fleur hurt his right arm duirng his act, when he did his big drop to the table. He will work again in Oregon. He laid off seven days."
Notes concerning Sun Bros.' Shows. After an absence of ten years the "World's Progressive" made its appearance in Toledo, O., on Monday, Aug. 13. Toledo is the home and birthplace of the Sun Brothers. Their show had its inception there in 1891, as a wagon show, and since then has been on the road continuoulsy and has met with much success and prosperity. In 1903 the show was converted into a ten car train exhibition, and at the present time it is regarded as the leader of the "big little" railroad tented shows. The Toledo engagement was a remarkable one, both from a financial and successful standpoint. Three performances were given in the big top, morning, afternoon and night. The morning show was devoted to the entertainment of the Toledo Newsboys' Association, accompanied by their own band, and also the inmates of all the Orphans' Home institutions of Toledo. These all came at the special invitation of the Messrs. Sun Bros. Peter Sun had charge of the youngsters, and chaperoned them through the different departments. It was one of the most enthusiastic and appreciative audiences entertained by the Sun Show this season. Both the afternoon and night shows had capacity business. The fact that the Sun Show is a Toledo product, and, besides, the fine equipment of the outfit and the excellent billing done, created the stimulous for all this fine business. The crowds were remarkable, considering the fact that three of the largest circuses and several minor shows had already played Toledo this season. . . . This is the twentieth week of the current season, and the show has enjoyed a satisfactoy season, fine weather and freedom from accidents and blow downs. The circus performance, under the guidance of Orrin Hollis, is in fine shape. The Carl Lamy Acrobatic Troupe,Lindsley, Plank and Lindsley, trompoline triple car act and casting display; the riding specialties of Orrin and Nettie Hollis, Master George Sun Jr. and Master Melvin Hollis, William Connors, bounding rope performer; Marvelous Lamberto, sensational juggler and 'cyclist wire act; Willie Clark, eccentric pedal manipulator; Minnie Ashburne, groupe of blue ribbon high jumping horses; Walter Ashburne's military and comedy elephants; Josephine, novelty aerialist; the Sun conclave of performaing lions, hyenas, boars, ponies, monkeys and dogs; a coterie of clowns, led by Whimsical Johnny Parker and Fred Wright, including J. Gagnier, ___ Stanley, Tommy Linder, Theo Smiletta, Chas. La Noire, and Tom Barlow. The recent tour of the Great Lake and copper towns of Michigan and Wisconsin was highly satisfactory, with ideal weather pervailing at all the stands. At Imlay City, Mich., the Whitney Family, the old time circus people, and Cal. M. Gillette, the veteran circus agent, spent the day in camp as the guests of the management. Col H. H. Whittier, general agent of A. W. Martin's Show; Sydney Wire, of the Buffalo Bill forces, and Harry Overton, of Cummins' Wild West, were recent visitors to the show. The present season of the show will continue until Christmas time.
Earl Phillips, hoop roller and novelty juggler, writes: "This is my eighth week with Finn's Circus. My act is going good. We are playing the Catskills, to a packed tent every night."
Fred A. Hodgson has returned to Collingwood, Can., after an enjoyable and successful fishing trip in the Canadian lakes, where he and a party of friends, including Mr. Riccardo, of Digby Bell's Co., made their headquarters on one of Mr. Hodgson's islands. He has bought a good sized yacht, and will shortly make a tour of Lake Superior.
The Alpine Family, for the remainder of the season will be with the Norris & Rowe Circus.
New York Clipper, September 8, 1906, pp. 771, 773. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Herr Holtum is the principal attraction with the Norris & Rowe Concert, in his cannon ball act, catching a fifteen pound ball fired from a real cannon, at London, Eng.
The Dorian Drum and Fife Corps is still en route with the Cummins' and Main Wild West.
Doc Waddell wires the following: "The John Robinson Circus, yesterday, broke Sullivan, Ill., record of last year. Gave three performances here, attendance twenty-seven thousand, four hundred and fifty."
Larriver and Lee have joined Ringling Bros.' Circus for the rest of the season to do their act in the concert. They report big success.
Sells Floto Show notes. The show is touring Oklahoma and Indian Territory,and, being the first show of the season in some place, business is good. Every town has been a winner so far, and the programme receives more praise than ever, for since William Sells has taken the directorship of this show, other shows have commenced to sit up and take notice. The musical programme as arranged by Fred Jewell, the bandmaster, receives praise from the newspapers. The Peerless Potters, the Eddy Family, the Martells, the ___ Troupe, the Ty-Bells, and all the big acts are enjoying the new country, and all say that this show's Pullman car service and equipment surpasses everything they ever before experienced in circus travel. Col. Chas. W. Seeley, the veteran manager, has the show on and off the lot daily without a hitch in the proceedings, and gives credit to the expert work of Jack Shumate, the boss hostler, who has been identified with the Sells management for over twenty years.
Notes from the T. L. Finn New Big Show. We are in our ninteenth week, and business still remains at the top notch. Our roster remains the same, and everyone is well and happy. The "ghost" walks every Tuesday. Edwin Wentworth was on the sick list, and spent a week's rest at home, but rejoined the show again at Monticello, N.Y. Mr. Orcutt has had the best of luck in moving the show, and the stock is in a fine condition. Mr. Finn will enlarge the show next season.
Roster of advertising car No. 1, of the Great Sells-Floto Shows, Consolidated: Ralph Root, manager; H. M. Mason, boss bill poster; Geo. Maddox, lithographer; W. S. Phillips, banners; W. S. Hoover, programmer; A. Turrell, J. J. McConnell, B. ___, W. Ford, H. L. Thomas, C. Tensby, Dusty Rhodes, Wm. Morehead and C. C. Thompson, bill posters; E. Jones, porter. We have been out over five months this season, and have been in eighteen states. We were recently visited at Wichita, Kan., by ?. B. Fredericks, C. Coleman and Chas. Webster.
Notes from the Great Mundy Shows. Business continues to be good, but we have encountered more rain this season than ever we have known in the history of the show. During our engagement at Elgin, Ill., we were favored with a visit from Col. P. J. Mundy, the founder and owner of the shows that bear his name. As Col. Mundy has been at Luna Park all summer, his visit to Elgin was his first opportunity to see the shows this season, and he was pleased to find that his able lieutenants had the shows up to his standard, and his motto, "Marality," was being faithfuly adhered to. At Manitowoc, Wis., Arthur Holden resumed hs hazardous feat of looping the loop, and after being laid up in bed for four weeks as the result of a fall at Kenosha, Wis., on July 4, he is again doing the act twice daily with the shows. Our engagement at Milwaukee, Wis., during the Eagle convention, proved to be the banner week of the season. Our various shows and concessions were located on Market Street, and the event was heralded as "Ten Blocks of Fun," and the "Carnival Corso" was thronged with thousands of people every night. Our meritorious exhibitons and sensational free attractions made such a favorable impression during the Milwaukee engagement, that the State Agricultural Society has engaged the Mundy Shows to play a return engagement at Milwaukee during the Wisconsin State Fair, which will be held Sept. 10-15. . . .
William Hagan, formerly a circus manager, died from heart disease at Auburn, N.Y., on Aug. 22, while waiting at the New York Central station for a train. For years he was connected in a business capacity with circuses, and one season was with the Sautelle Show.
New York Clipper, September 15, 1906, p. 798. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Lean Blondelle, "Lion Queen," with the John Robinson Ten Big Shows, celebrated her twenty-third birthday, Sept. 4, and was presented with a handsome diamond set, a gold watch, and other costly presents, from her friends.
Jack Sutton, manager of the Tasmanian Troupe, en route with the Frank A. Robbins Circus, writes: "The Tasmanian Troupe is meeting with great success, scoring big with the public, and is appreciated by the management. This is a pleasant show to travel with. All is well, and we are doing big business."
Roster of car No. 2, Barnum & Bailey Show: V. B. Cooke, car manager; Al. Riel, excursion agent; W. D. Coxey, press representative; Geo. ___, boss bill poster; J. Curren, lithos; W. Croul, boss banner man; ___ Ipp, assistant banner man; W. Heller, programmes; ___, E. Hanson, L. Wilkenson, W. Hayes, E. Hanford, W. B. Corbett, G. Vanderslice, W. Brown, H. Lynch and W. C. Ray, excursion men; Geo. Fisher, chef; C. Jones, waiter; A. Johnson, porter.
Roster of car No. 4, Pawnee Bill's Wild West and Great Far East: R. M. Simons, manager; W. Winn, boss bill poster and steward; H. Holland, W. Graab, C. Vanderslice, E. Hanford, C. Cummings, P. Davis, ?. Belmont and ?. McCormick, bill posters; C. Dallas, programmer; Kid Mills and J. Hart, banner men; R. Clark, lithographer; F. Livingstone, porter; C. Stewart, chef; F. McCarthy, paste maker.
Notes from the Sells-Floto Show. In the languarge of the booming West, we are still doing a "land office business," in spite of the opposition and occasional bad weather, and the show is making the bigget kind of a hit. . . . "The Potter Family, the world's really greatest aerialists, and the Martelle Family, actual champion bicyclists, are sufficient to head any two circus programmes . . . We are now in our twenty-first week, and excepting one accident and case of sickness, feel that we have been singularly fortunate; consequently everybody is happy and laying away the sheckles for a winter of rest, if, however, the rest comes, since our prospective tour of Old Mexico may more than consume the greater part of the winter season. The Deo acts imported from Paris are creating favorable comment and the new Tybell act is a pronounced hit. De Carlo and Stokes and Clemens are getting their share of daily applause too, and Delevoye and Fritz never made a better showing. Sassaria and Brother win many a hearty laugh from the sports in our audiences with their funny giant rooster act, and people who witness the afternoon shows and return to the night performances applaud Kittie Kruger and William Marks and Cecil Fortuna before they reach the rings. John Purvis, equestrian director, is making some novel additions to the comedy features of the programme, and Fred Jewel, our bandmaster, and his excellent bands are making good to the limit. Harry Sells and Colonel Shumate are weekly nearly thrown into convulsions over the "walkaways" among the working men. These harvest fields, big wages and farm cooking are great temptations to the circus boys. Snyder, the clown elephant of the herd, is still in limbo at the lower end of "Peanut Row" for leading the elephants off in the stampede at Idaho Falls. They ran away several miles, and rather than be rounded up, took to the Snake River three miles above the falls, and the fearful rapidity of the current carried them over. They looked like twelve big corks when they made the plunge of sixty feet into the rapids below. It was almost a miracle they were not drowned. The new Marques side show banners, cook tents and horse tents, up this week for the first time, indicate that there is certainly something doing in view of a long season. Entirely new costumes, wardrobes and trappings for the whole show will arrive the coming week. They will be used for the Mexican tour. Our agents and foremen are placing as many people as possible with the show who speak Spanish, in contemplation of the coming tour. Our advance manager, W. R. Musgat and H. E. (Punch) Wheeler, are now doing splendid work in advance in the City of Mexico, preparatory to our extended engagement in the city. Wagers are offered now at fifty to one, and no takers that we will eat Christmas dinner in the land of the Montezumas.
Notes from Finn & Co.'s New United Shows. Business remains the same. The colonel has just received four dapple gray horses for our band wagon, which makes thirty-six grays in our horse tent. Ed. F. Wentworth has recovered from his sickness, and has gone ahead to take charge. The colonel and business manager A. C. Orcutt expect to make New York their headquarters this winter, where they will have an office.
Elsie Becks writes that she has left the Pawnee Bill Show, and is now with Cummins' Wild West and Exhibition Show.
New York Clipper, September 29, 1906, p. 851. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Gollmar Bros.' Shows. Business is fine, but, of course, like all shows, we have had a few weeks of light business, but the season's business is far in advance of any previous year. We expect to close our season on or about Nov. 20. The outfit will then be shipped to winter quarters, where the show will receive a thorough renovation. New and larger cages and dens will be made to take the place of some of the smaller ones now in use. Last week we received a new and larger big top, a menagerie top and dressing room top, and two more sleepers, one lunch car and a dining car. A flat and stock cars will be added for next season, and to use a phrase, Gollmar Bros.' Show will be "it" next season. . . . There has been a few slight accidents and some little illness in the show, but the doctors have eliminated the trouble. J. Delmar Andrews is back with the show, doing excellent banner work.
Carl Mayer is still with the Hagenbeck Greatest Shows, doing well.
The Sells-Floto Shows are making great preparations for their forthcoming Mexican tour. They are doing a big business at present, through Texas, and winning high praise. The Mexican headquarters are at Hotel Guardiola, City of Mexico, where the several heads of departments, W. R. Musgate, advance manager; H. E. (Punch) Wheeler, general press agent, and William Sells, director general, can always be reached.
Notes from A. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. We have just finished the twentieth week of the most prosperous season ever enjoyed by the New Model, and are now headed South, it being Mr. Wheeler's intention to remain out until Dec. 1 or later. Several changes have been made in our roster the past week, owing to some of our people having winter engagements with hall shows. Wilfred Marion, hand balancer and clown: Harvey Litts, cornet; E. J. Fish, clarionet; Fred Peats, tuba, and Earl Howard, trap drummer; joined the past week for our Southern trip. Assistant manager Adam Gillespie purchased a fine road horse for his private use last week, and now takes the dust from no person. Our annex, under the management of Prof. M. Zednav, is still getting big money, and Ed. H. Bell, superintendent of privileges, is sending home "blue paper" nearly every day. Frank Peabody is boss hostler, and the show moves over the roade as "slick as grease," while Blacky Barnett, superintendent of canvas, always has the tops up with the sun. Next season will find the New Model more than doubled its present size.
A neatly bound book of poems, by Willard Douglas Coxey, press representative for Barnum & Bailey's Circus, has just reached this office. It is entitled "Hart Songs and Other Verse."
Pubillones will arrive in New York about Oct. 10. The season closed Sept. 15. The Havana season will open about Nov. 15.
Dan Ducrow returned from Cuba Sept. 20, after a successful season with Pubillones.
Jas. E. Donegan, manager of the Dunedin Troupe of Bicyclists, now performing with the Forepaugh & Sells Shows, offers a reward for information of the whereabouts of Harold Spencer Dunedin, a fourteen year old boy, who ran away, or was kidnapped at Baraboo, Wis., July 6, last. He is an English boy, and his parents, who live in England, are very much worried about the boy.
Notes from Joyce's Old Time Country Circus. We closed our season Sept. 18, at Warrensburgh, N.Y. The last four weeks of the season were played at the fairs in Northern New York, to splendid business. The show is now in winter quarters. Some changes will be made in the style of the show for next season by adding a trained animal exhibition. Most of the performers are re-engaged for next season. The show will open in Greenwich, N.Y., and cover the same route as last year.
Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show closed its four years' tour of Europe at Brussels, Belg., Sept. 21, and Col. Cody sailed from Antwerp 22, for America. The show will sail Oct. 6, and commence the last American tour prior to Col. Cody's retirement.
The Famous Ellet Troupe, aerial bar performers, report meeting with success with the Carl Hagenbeck Shows, and are re-engaged for next season.
Notes from Gollmar Bros.' Shows. Business still continues big with the Gollmar Bros.' Shows, and we are turning them away every day. The feature acts, the Flying Nelsons, the Petite Family, Notezel Family, and other big acts, are scoring heavily at every performance. Quite a lot of sickness has prevailed in the show this season, and at present our physician is the busiest man here. John Higgins, of Beach & Bowers Minstrels, ia a feature recently added to the concert.
Will T. Miller, side show manager of Al. F. Wheeler's Annex for the past two seasons, has joined Miles Orton's Southern Shows, in the same capacity.
Notes from the Excelsior Carnival Co., Wm. S. Miller, manager. The shows are in their seventeenth week, and have met with unbounded success . . . Our circus has been playing to capacity everywhere, and the people wonder how we can put up such a show for the small admission charged. The following people are engaged in the ring performances: Charles Garvice's ponies, which are a big hit, his "hind-foot" pony receiving great applause at the finish. Dick Chantrell, singing and talking clown, gets his full share of the honors; Mlle. Fondelier, wire act, an exceptionally fine one, and the Creco Bros., in hand balancing and tumbling, while the juggling of Miss Olga and Joe Creco add to the general satisfaction given. Prof. Ernesto Muratore has charge of the band. . . .
New York Clipper, October 6, 1906, p. 878. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Aiton & Anderson Show. Clyde Anderson, one of the managers of the show, has been on a visit to Lewistown and Erie, Pa., for the last week, looking over matters for winter quarters for their show. We close in December, in Texas. The little show, for a new one, has been a winner from the start, and the season of 1907 will find it still better.
Ben Goodwin is en route with the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Shows.
Roster of advance car No. 1, of the Campbell Bros.' Circus, which arrived in Quanah, Sept. 20, with a fine line of paper: Geo. H. Allen, manager; F. O. Beers and R. E. ___, boss bill posters; Chas. Manrose, Harry Griffith, Wilbur Wynne, H. J. Ward, J. E. Nichols, Frank Cunningham and E. N. Smith, bill posters; Wm. Spencer, lithographer; Horace Brown, chef; Virgle Stone, porter. All are well.
Marvelle and Gleason are in their twenty-fifth week with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, and are well booked in vaudeville for 1907.
Advertising car No. 1, of the Great Sells-Floto Shows Consolidated, is in the South again, and the men on the car do not expect to go home until about Christmas. Ralph Root is car manager; Henry M. Mason, boss bill poster (local No. 2); W. S. Maddox, lithographer (probation); J. Harris, banners (probation); A. Turrell (local No. 26); ?. F. Rhoades (local No. 6); C. O. Tinsley (local no. 20); J. McConnell (local No. 6); ?. Ford (probation); Wm. Morehead (local No. 16); W. S. Hoover (probation) . . . ?. Thompson (local no. 14), bill posters. ?. Thomas, programmers; F. Barber, porter. Wm. Morehead is steward on the car for the N. A. R. P. and B. of A.
Dode Fisk's Great Dog and Pony Show, after a very successful season, will close at Richland Centre, Wis., Oct. 3.
Peter J. Brogan, who had been for the past fifteen years ticket taker with Buffalo Bill's Wild West, died at his home in Lowell, Mass., Sept. 25, aged forty-two years. Mr. Brogan was a clever linguist, which made his services very valuable during the tour of the world undertaken by Col. Cody's Show.
New York Clipper, October 13, 1906, p. 905. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
". . . The Antonio V. Pubillones Circus Co., No. 2, closed its summer season on Aug. __, in Panama and Colon, arriving back to Havana on Sept. 8. Mr. Pubillones left on Sept. __ for the United States, and has been a visitor and guest of the Great Wallace and the Barnum & Bailey Shows, having been in the towns of Paris, Tenn.; Paducah, Ky., and Cairo, Ill., having a most pleasant visit and the greatest favors shown to him. Mr. Pubillones and myself will be in New York about Oct. 18, where Mr. Pubillones will remain until Oct. 24, when he will take passage for Havana, Cuba. On Oct. 24 and 27, the performers, who will form part of the No. 1 Co., and who will open the winter season at Havana, in the Grand National Theatre, with a fine ring in connection, will sail from New York for Havana so as to open on Nov. 1, with the best of talent, both American and European. I will continue engaging vaudeville and circus acts for same."
W. F. Karl writes from Los Angeles, Cal.: "I have had an offer from the Forepaugh-Sells Circus, but could not consider it, as I have ventured into the realty brokerage line, which has been booming ever since the earthquake all over California. The coming winter, however, will find me in harness again, along the gymnastic trail."
Cummings' Wild West Show, owned by Walter L. Main, was practically destroyed by fire in winter quarters at Geneva, Ohio, on Oct. 2. One man, a wagon driver, was burned to death, and scores of menagerie animals and horses were lost. All the animals in the show except three horses, a bear and ___ performing hippodrome elephants were burned. The loss, including cages and other appurtenances of the show, will be $100,000, partially covered by insurance. The main building was worth $20,000, and was insured for $6,000. Mr. Main believes that defective electric wires caused the blaze to start in a haymow.
Notes from Thos. L. Flynn's Big One Ring Circus. This show closed a very prosperous season of twenty weeks Sept. 17, and is now in winter quarters at Hoosick Falls, N.Y. The show was a winner from the start, not having one losing week during the season. The Spring of 1907 will find this a railroad show, with a complete new outfit, and twice its former size.
Grant Allmon is in his twenty-third week as principal clown with the Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. This show, according to reports, is meeting with great success, and will remain out until Dec. 1, or later.
Major Caillonette is in his twenty-third week with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Show, meeting with success with his unicycle wire and baton acts.
Ed. Daley, press agent of Gentry's Show, was married at Fitzgerald, Ga., on Sept. 21, to Lena Lee Quinn, a non-professional, resident of that place.
Barnum & Bailey's Circus has had a hard time through the South lately on account of heavy rains. At Clarksdale, Greenville and Vicksburg they were unable to show on account of wet grounds and deep mud.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. Twenty-four weeks on the road and still enjoying good business. Pennsylvania "panned out" good, and while the nights have been a little cool, our business since entering Maryland has been full up to the New Model standard. Geo. Parento, high ladder act and aerialist, joined Oct. _, to strengthen the big show; also several musicians, to replace people who have minstrel engagements for the winter. The Zechs, aerialists, and Maj. Callionette, unicycle wire act, will play dates at the close of our tenting season. Grant ___ is making good as principal clown, and is ably assisted by Al. F. Wheeler Jr., the twelve-year-old son of our manager. This show will remain out until Dec. 1 or later, wintering in the South, and will open again early in March, more than double in size.
New York Clipper, October 27, 1906, p. 958. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Thomas Jacobs, an animal trainer, with Forepaugh-Sells Brothers' Circus, was found dead in a camel car attached to the show, at Fayetteville, Ark., Oct. 16. He is believed to have been killed by some of the animals. The body was forwarded to his home in Pennsylvania.
Notes from the Frank A. Robbins Circus. When we exhibited at McKeesport, Pa., Capt. Jack Sutton visited Pittsburg, and arranged to place a monument over the grave, in Calvary Cemetery, of Rose Joy Stewart (Rose Aydmaldo), who died while performing at the Grand Opera House, Pittsburg, June _, 1905. Mr. Sutton was appointed treasurer of the funds subscribed by brother and sister performers of Ringling Bros.' Circus, last season.
Herbert, "The Frogman," is doing well with the Sells-Floto Shows, and is booked up to 1908.
The following, regarding the Sells-Floto invasion of Mexico, is from the Mexican Hearlad, City of Mexico, dated Oct. 1: "An immense hippodrome, with modern equipment, and designed not only as a place of amusement, but as winter quarters for the animals and people connected with the circus, is contemplated by the management of the Sells-Floto Circus, which arrives in this city in November. This plan has been under consideration ever since the Sells-Floto people thought of coming to Mexico, and when W. R. Musgat, advance agent, arrived here he came with the intention of looking over locations for the building as well as to prepare the way for the show. He is now in Texas, and has made a favorable report to the management of the show. At the office of the circus on San Juan de Letran the report of the project was confirmed by "Punch" Wheeler, who is in charge of the office in this city. It has been the intention of Messrs. Sells, Bonfils and Tammen, owners of the show, to build winter quarters in Mexico, and having decided on a tour of Mexico this winter, they took advantage of that to make plans for a hippodrome in this city. Mr. Musgat looked at several desireable locations while here several weeks ago, and has made a favorable report to the management, which was already in favor of such an undertaking. The idea of Mr. Sells is to erect a suitable building, where the most expensive acrobats and thrilling features of circusdom can be given the same as under canvas on the road during the regular season. This will also include all the familiar races, Roman standing, four-horse chariot, flat and hurdle races, for which actual prizes will be given at each exhibition."
Washburn & D'Alma's Circus closed at Greenpoint, L. I., last week. A number of animal acts will be seen in the vaudeville houses this season.
La Gette and Gelatt are en route with the Ringling Shows.
Notes from the Hagenbeck Shows. Big business since showing Texas, although experiencing great opposition. In some of the large cities we turned them away. At Dallas we had tremendous crowds. The Famous Flying Jordans open at New York Hippodrome Nov. 26. . . . We encountered very stormy weather at Galveston Oct. 13, the streets being flooded. We had a fair matinee, but for the night performance the house was sold out at 12 o'clock noon. It rained during all of the following night. Houston and Beaumont, the next stands, we did a capacity business, losing but one show. The opposition amounts to nothing in this part of the country.
The Frank A. Robbins Show will close the season Nov. 10.
Notes from Riggs' Wild West Shows. After having had a successful season, working parks and fairs throughout the North, we are now arranging our advance for day stands through the South for the winter.
Ernest Cooke has partly recovered from the result of a recent accident, and has rejoined the Frank A. Robbins Circus.
William Dutton, bareback rider, with the John Robinson Circus, was assaulted Oct. 18, in Cincinnati, and so badly wounded that it is doubtful whether he will recover. He is in the City Hospital, suffering from a fractured skull and many wounds on his face. He had a large sum of money about him when he left the circus grounds that night. Mr. Dutton has been engaged in the circus life for more than thirty years. His wife and adopted son, Jimmie, are also bareback riders.
Notes from E. G. Smith's Colossal Shows and Trained Animal Exposition. We closed a financially successful season of twenty-four weeks at Emmitsburg, Md., on Oct. 11, and immediately started for our spacious quarters at Lambertsville, Pa., where the paraphernalia and stock are now safely housed for the winter. General manager Smith is already on the lookout for new parade novelties, and a big pony act will be booked this winter for a special feature. The season of 1907 will see the Little Giant the peer of all wagon shows. . . . The show traveled through the greater part of three States, only losing two stands, and the cause of these was severe storms. We had our parade out at noon every day, and but for the two storms would not have lost a performance. Business was to the capacity of our tents all season, excepting the weeks of July 30, Aug. 6 and Aug. 13, and those weeks were to paying business. General agent Iseminger and assistant manage Ray Dee have again signed for next season, making their fifth and sixth years, respectively, in the company of the above show. C. Dickey will again lead our band and be manager of privileges. Billy ___ will look after the red lemonade. The following people will again be with us when the band sounds the initial march for 1907: Keller Iseminger, J. J. Ray Dee, C. C. Dickey, Chas. Remus, Debbie O. ___, Joe Heiser, Dan Lambert, Paul Charles, Ray and Cleve Daniels, E. G. Smith, wife, and daughter, Irene, will also be with the organization next season.
Stanley Huntley Lewis, late advertising director of the Walter L. Main Shows, was a Clipper caller Monday, Oct. 22. Mr. Lewis has signed as business representative for Ed. R. ___'s attractions, and left for the West the same evening.
New York Clipper, November 3, 1906, p. 985. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
A. Pubillones arrived at Havana Oct. 22. John Harrison sailed, 27, for Havana. Frank Longbotham will remain in New York as representative to look after the business of the company and shipment of all those engaged. Some of the acts who are engaged for this season at the National Theatre are: the Clarkonians, aerial act; Barlow's elephants, three in number; St. Leons Family, equestrian acrobats; the Bertonis, high wire act; the Maginleys, gymnasts; the Griff Bros., herculean acts . . . Mr. Lloyd, English jockey; Pauline Viola, trained dog act . . . a Japanese troupe, a lion act, and troupe of seals.
Geo. W. Loudon [London?] writes: "I bought the right and title in the name of Tuttle on June __, 1906, and after a very successful season of fifteen weeks, the show is neatly packed away in his new winter quarters at Greenville, Pa., where everything will be overhauled. I will open the tenting season of 1907 early in May, with everything new but my name."
The Forepaugh-Sells Show will close at Water Valley, Miss., Nov. 17.
The Great European Trained Wild Animal Arena closed its summer tour at Minerva, O., Oct. _, and will open its winter tour Oct. 29, to play indoor carnivals. Manager Harper recently added a number of new animals, and Capt. Clarke is busy breaking them to new acts. Wm. P. Harper, general manager; Capt. Alfred Clarke, boss animal man and trainer; Andy White, assistant trainer; Jas. Ryan, general announcer. The best of business is looked for at the indoor carnivals.
New York Clipper, November 10, 1906, pp. 1000, 1009, 1011. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Pawnee Bill notes. The Pawnee Bill Wild West Show is enjoying a very prosperous tour through the South this season. . . . Our business in all of the larger cities has been enormous, with turn-aways at Bluefield, W. Va., Roanoke, Va., Richmond Va., Wilmington, N.C., Charleston, S.C. and Savannah, Ga. At Savannah, the chief of police, on account of the enormous crush at both ticket wagons (the white reserved seat wagon was being used for the sale of general admission tickets, as the reserved seats for the night house had been sold in the afternoon) ordered the wagons closed. We finally compromised with him by placing tickets on sale on four side show boxes, and both wagons. The tent was quickly filled to the limit, and many were turned away. . . . T. V. Jayamangala, who furnishes a number of our Far East attractions, is now negotiating with Pawnee Bill to furnish, for next season, a number of foreign people and acts that have never been seen in this country. The Far East part of the show will be greatly enlarged next season, and we will have a large canvas similar to a menagerie tent. In which will be presented a grand ethnological congress of the world's nations, which will eclipse anything of a similar nature ever seen in America. The privileges are also having exceptional good business, and Messrs. Wilson and Gilbertson are wearing the smile that don't come off. The side show and concert will have the largest year of business in the history of the show. Major Burke, of the Buffalo Bill Show, paid us a hasty visit at Wilmington, N.C. The major made the trip from New York to Wilmington especially to see the performance, and pay his respects to Major Lillie, Pawnee Bill. Major Burke is a life long friend of Pawnee Bill's, and, while they have not been closely associated for the last twenty years, Major Burke has always had a tender regard for Pawnee Bill's success. . . .
The Dunedin Troupe of 'Cyclists have been re-engaged for next season with the Ringling & Forepaugh-Sells Shows. Jas. E. Donegan, teacher and manager of the Dunedin Troupe, is forming a No. 2 troupe of female 'cyclists.
Kelleher, the "Juggling Drum Major," is in his twenty-eighth week with the Barnum & Bailey Show, and reports meeting with success in his novel offering.
Wyoming Jack and Prairie Nell have just closed a successful season with Barney Demerst's Hippodrome and Wild West, where they were featured as expert rifle shots and chariot drivers.
Frank Ellett, of the Ellett Bros., with the Hagenbeck Circus, broke his ankle Oct. 30, while turning a double somersault into a net. He was sent to his home in Waterbury, Conn.
The Wonderful La Rex informs us that he had a very successful season in New England parks and fairs, and that he has signed for next season with the Ringling Bros. Circus.
Leon W. Washburn writes: "I have purchased from John D'Alma, his interest in the show known as Washburn & D'Alma's Famous Trained Animal Shows. I have purchased a large farm near Bound Brook, N.J., which will make a desirable winter quarters. A trolly line runs by the farm to Bound Brook and Jersey City. I have just completed a large building for elephant quarters and training purposes. Trainers will be busy all winter, breaking new acts. The show will be reconstructed and enlarged. Our season opened April 9, at Richmond, Va., and closed Oct. 10, at Brooklyn, N.Y."
Roster of car No. 4, Pawnee Bill Shows: R. M. Simons, manager; W. Winn, boss bill poster, local 3; W. Holland, local 4; W. Graab, Alliance; C. Clark, local 15; G. Gumming, local 15; C. Dallas, local 15; J. Corners, Alliance; F. McCormick, Alliance; E. McCarthy, probation; E. Arlington, programmer, probation; Owen Neighbor, boss banner man, Alliance; L. Eagen, local 37; E. Reynolds, boss lithographer, local 15; E. Murray, probation; Mons. Herbert, chef; Millie La Tour, paste maker; Francis Mack, porter.
Harry C. Merkley writes: "I have closed a very pleasant and profitable season with Hunt's Silver Plate Shows, and after a trip through Canada, will spend a few days with my family at St. Johnsville, N.Y."
Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows closed a highly successful season of twenty-six weeks at Rising Sun, Md., on Nov. 1, and go into winter quarters at Oxford, Pa. This show will be nearly double in size for 1907, with many new and original features added.
___ P. Watson has joined the Sells-Floto Show.
Jack Sutton, manager of the Tasmanian Troupe, called, and reports a most successful season with the Frank A. Robbins Circus. The ladies will take a week's rest, then take up their winter work.
Arthur Borella writes: "I am no longer connected with the La Rose Electric Fountain, having disposed of my interest to my partner, Geo. La Rose, at Cincinnati, last January. I am at present, and have been since the opening of the season at Madison Square Garden, N.Y., last March, with the Barnum & Bailey Show, meeting with success, and am re-engaged for next season."
Notes from the Sells-Floto Shows. . . . At El Paso, Tex., we evidently broke a show famine, and were compelled to open ticket wagon and doors ahead of time. Lumber yards nearby were depleted of planks, extra seats erected up to ring curbs, and then we couldn't hold them. . . . Visitors from our show to other big ones tell us that they haven't seen one that has outclassed the Tybells, Delavoye and Fritz, Stokes and De cArlo, the Dios, Sassarias, Hilda and Herbert, Clara Ruel or Cecil Fortuna in their respective acts . . .
Sam Milan, advance man for the Wallace Circus, was killed at Peyton, near Atlanta, Ga., early on the morning of Oct. 30, by a train on the Southern Railway.
New York Clipper, November 24, 1906, p. 1063. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Bob Cook joined the Robbins Bros. Show to do a clown act, and with Arthur Davis do a specialty in the concert.
C. G. A. Starke writes from Cairo, Egypt, that he is taking a vacation at the Holy Land, after a season with Ringling Bros.' Circus.
Joe La Fleur, after the closing of Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Shows, at Water Valley, Miss., Nov. 17, joined the Hagenbeck Show, to tour Mexico. His act will be one of the features with Forepaugh-Sells next season.
The Toledo Troupe sailed Nov. 17 for Havana, where they will open Nov. 22 with the Pubillones Show.
The Sells-Floto Show will be enlarged for the City of Mexico to a three ring and two stage proportion. The tour in Mexico will probably run up to January.
Notes from Riggs' Wild West Shows. We played Corning, Ark., Nov. 13, which was as cold and nasty a day as usually comes ot the lot of any show. The afternoon performance was given to well filled tents, and at night, though it rained and sleeted from half past six p.m. until two a.m. next day, the tent was more than half full. The two shows left a near little balance on the day for the company. Captain C. W. Riggs, manager, says he fears nothing in the way of weather or competition after passing through the thirteenth of November at Corning. The show continues to grow, being increased this week by the arrival of Annie Schaefer, bucking horse rider; Wm. W. Dillingham, who holds the world's record of roping and tieing a steer in the shortest length of time. Buffalo Vernon, who was a feature of Cummins' Wild West and Indian Congress, at St. Louis; C. F. Challe and wife, and J. C. House were additions to the band. The governor advertises a twenty piece band, and though it is not full yet, declares he will give it to them in order to fill every advertisement, which is the long suit with this show.
Notes from Pubillones Circus. We opened at the Grand Theatre National, in Havana, Cuba, on Wednesday, Nov. 7, to the largest crowd of any previous season. . . . The performance opened with a double trapeze act by the Maginleys, assisted by a dog, whose antics pleased the audience, as did the pair on the trapeze. The next act was the St. Leons, acrobatic performers. This family is well known in Cuba, and met with a generous reception. The next on the programme was a revolving ladder, manipulated by the Brothers Lanoles in such a way as to make the audience ask for more. The three dogs of Colonel Schultz did some new "stunts" for Cuba. The Burtinos finished the first part and it was an exceedingly pretty act, deserving the generous applause accorded them and the curtain recalls. This act is entirely new to Cuba and was thoroughly enjoyed. It is one of the best imported by Pubillones. The second part opening with the Brothers Lanoles in a very comic bar act, displaying agility of the finest kind. The next on the programme was a riding act by Elsie San Leon, the prettiest bareback rider ever seen in Cuba. The followed the clowns, Pito and Chocolate, without whom a Pubillones circus could not exist. Both of them being favorites with the vast audience. The Griff Brothers were next on the bill and showed to the audience come novel "strong features." The last on the programme, and one of the finest acts in the world, was the trained elephants of Capt. and Mrs. Peter Barlow. What these huge beasts known would take a large book to tell. . . . In addition to the above, Mr. Pubillones has the following acts in reserve at Havanna, which will open from time to time: Mlle. Loubet, looping the loop in an automobile; the Clarkonians, the Videttes, the Toledo Troupe, Marvelle-Lodon Troupe, Three Olifans, and others.
Fred A. Hodgson has assumed the management of the Hagenbeck Circus for its Mexican tour, which will open at Laredo, Dec. 12, and close Jan. 27, at C. P. Diaz. The show will cover 3,452 miles, the smallest jump being 21 miels from Silos to Leon; the longest, 327 miles, from San Luis Potosi to Mexico City, where they will play from Dec. 22 to 30. A strong show, suitable for the country, has been organized. Mr. Hodgson is now in Mexico City.
Notes from advertising car No. 1, of the Great Sells-Floto Shows, Consolidated. We are now in old Mexico, advertising the biggest circus that ever exhibited in old Mexico. The boys are learning to speak Spanish very fast. While billing the town the streets are blocked, while the boys are putting up the large posters, advertising the coming of "El Grandioso Sells-Floto Circo, Espectaculo, Museo and Zoologico." The roster of the car: Ralph Root, manager; Henry M. Mason, boss bill poster; J. W. Wallace, lithographer; C. C. Thompson, banners; Geo. Rhoades, Burt Stites, Al. Turrell, C. O. Tinsley, W. S. Hoover and Wm. Morehead, bill posters; Jack Harris, programmer; F. Barber, porter; J. Castorenaa, R. B. Stine, interperters. This is the first show in old Mexico to ever build bill boards, and H. M. Mason, our boss bill poster, has the honor of being the first man to lay up a stand of paper for a bill board in old Mexico.
The John Robinson's Ten Big Shows closed their eighty-fifth season at Southern Pines, N.C., Saturday, Nov. 10. During the summer they traveled 30,415 miles, and covered twenty different states. They traveled in four sections, hauled by eight locomotives, en route to winter quarters at Terrace Park, Cincinnati, O.
The Savoys and Vesta closed Nov. 5 with the Great Wallace Show, and jumped to New Orleans to join the Hagenbeck Show for its last two days. They go to Mexico, with the Hagenbeck Show.
Notes from the F. W. Hall Show. As winter approaches once more, it finds the F. W. Hall Wagon Show snugly housed in its winter home, at Atwood, Kans., where it will open the season of 1907 the last of April, with a number of improvements and additions. It will be considerably enlarged for next season. Its fine horses are the admiration of everyone in this section, as well has having been a drawing card all season. They are enjoying the buffalo grass pastures which abound in this part of the country.
Col. Chas. Seeley writes: "As I did not desire to go into Mexico for this winter, I have resigned my position as manager of the Sells-Floto Shows. Please mention my reasons for resigning."
Notes from the winter quarters of Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. After a season of twenty-six weeks, during which time we covered six States, we are now comfortably located in our new winter quarters at Oxford, Pa., where active preparations are already under way for the 1907 campaign. Our new quarters are without question the finest ever occupied by a wagon show in this country. The main building, 60x110 feet, has a finely equipped ring barn on the lower floor, while the second story is used for the storage of canvas, wardrobe, etc. Adjoining this is a wagon shed, 30x110 feet, one end of which is fitted up as a paint shop. The stables are built on modern lines, with a roomy box stall for every horse and pony. We have, also, an animal barn, a blacksmith shop and comfortable quarters for the men, which department is in charge of our popular chef, O. A. Berry. All the buildings are well heated and lighted, and supplied with running water. Mr. Wheeler has sold his old quarters at Schenectady, N.Y., and intends to make his future home in Oxford, Pa. Assistant manager Adam Gillespie is in charge of the quarters. General agent F. J. Frink is still on the ground, "as busy as a bee," working on a new line of special paper which we are getting out for 1907, and which will be the most elaborate ever used with a wagon show. The advance will be augmented by a "special opposition wagon," and when the boys start out in the Spring, they will be prepared to cope with any and all emergencies that may arise.
New York Clipper, December 8, 1906, pp. 1109, 1111, 1114. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Cole Bros. notes. The new home for this show at Erie, Pa., is one of the most perfectly constructed winter quarters for a circus ever built. Well lighted, roomy, splendidly located, equipped with all modern appliances and sanitarily ventilated. It is a ___ of sucess to Martin W. Downs, and a credit to the designer, general agent Ed. C. Knupp. It has a frontage of 80 feet, facing the tracks of the Lake Shore and Nickel Plate railroads. The electric railway plying between Erie and Jamestown pass its doors, and it is as easy to reach as the office of an ordinary business house. The front of the quarters is constructed of cement, with a pretty imitation of a brownstone finish. Extending the entire length of the top of the quarters is a six foot high lettered signboard, on which is the show's name, and which is at night electrically illuminated. On the front are towers, on which are huge water tanks, each holding ___ gallons of water. These are filled from an artesian well in the wagon room, the pumping force being supplied by a forty horse power engine in the blacksmith's shop. In direct communication with these tanks are numerous automatic fire extinguishing sprinkling pipes. These pipes are so arranged, not only from the ceilings at the various rooms, but from the walls as well, that the least intimation of fire would result in a complete deluging of the entire building. It would be entirely impossible for a fire, no matter where started, to gain the least headway. The building, from office to animal room, is steam heated and lighted by electricity. Neither coal or wood are used __ the huge engine. Natural gas is piped in, and, in fact, cleanliness and carefulness is everywhere evident. The building is one story in height, or when considered with the spacious hay mow, feed room and canvas store loft, a story and a half. It extends back ___ feet, and the rear is so arranged with communicating sliding doors, that it can be completely opened. Inside the floorin gis entirely of cement; and the different departments, while entirely separated, can be converted in a second into one, by the manner in which the sliding doors are arranged. The blacksmith's shop is supplied with all of the most modern machinery for iron working, and is sufficiently large to accommodate eight of the largest wagons, without incommoding the men working on them. Everywhere it is evident that Mr. Downs has carried out his idea that it pays to do everything well, and that he looked ahead to the size the Cole Brothers' Show is ssure to attain before many more seasons. The stable is divided with 250 stalls, all splendidly fitted up with sanitary feeding boxes and perfect drainage. It is well lighted and splendidly ventilated. The same can be truthfully said of the animal house, with its fifty roomy cages systematically arranged along the ___. Here will also be quartered the elephants, camels and other hay eating animals. The paint shop has direct communication with both the blacksmith ship and the wagon room, and so perfect is this communication that every wagon can be repaired, painted and nave a new cover put on it, without having to be run out of the building. The large ring barn is directly accessible from the stable, wardrobe room and animal room, and the ring in the center of it, instead of being either a raised or a curb ring, is a sunken one. In this way a more perfect control of an animal being educated is obtained, and the danger attending a new riding act decreased. The ring is sunk only to a depth of eighteen inches, and floored and packed in tan bark. There is a space of ten feet from the side of the ring to the walls of the room. To the West of the winter quarters proper is the mens' quarters. This is a large two story brick building that can comfortably accommodate one hundred and fifty men. There is a large kitchen in operation, and Mr. Downs has provided a nice reading room in which the daily papers and leading magazines will be on file. On the upper floor are closets and four large bath rooms, liberally supplied with hot and cold water continuously. In the rear of the mens' quarters is the huge pasture, where the horses may graze or exercise. Through this runs a stream of pur water. The show is now quartered there, and Mr. Downs says that no show is a show, until it has its own home.
Notes from the Pawnee Bill Show. We will not go into winter quarters, as was originally intended, at Portsmouth, O., but will winter at Nashville, Tenn., and are now all housed in that city until Spring. The show closed at McMinville, Tenn., on Nov. __, and canceled Shelbyville, Murfreesboro, Nashville, Dickson and Paris. At Winchester a performance was given on the snow covered ground, and it was the last of this season. Unfortunately Pawnee Bill ran into an early streak of winter weather, but his was not the only show. All the shows in the South came in for a share of it. General agent John D. Carey and Major Lillie kept the telegraph wires hot for a few hours during the afternoon performance at Winchester, adn at the conclusion, the announcement was made that the show was closed, and a run at once made to Nashville. Here is was decided to winter in the South, and Nashville made some flattering offers, which Major Lillie accepted. By this time all hands had been paid off, excepting those who were to put the show away, and at six o'clock, Monday evening, every piece of paraphernalia was stored for the winter, and the watchmen for the various buildings, on duty. The Pawnee Bill Show has had a good season, and at the close the balance was a satisfactory one, on the right side. The South treated the show as it did all the others this season - gave it a taste of success and bad business, but on the whole the Southern trip was a profitable one. In all the large cities, Richmond, Savannah, Atlanta and Chattanooga . . . When the advance of the show closed, no less than thirty-eight men, who started out with the show, were still with it. While other shows were short handed in the advance last year, the Pawnee Bill Show had it full quota. . . . General agent John D. Carey is spending the winter in Brooklyn, N.Y.
At a meeting of the directors of the Barnum & Bailey Circus held afternoon of Nov. 23, William W. Cole was elected managing director of the show for a year, succeeding George O. Starr, who has held that position with the Barnum & Bailey Circus since the death of James A. Bailey. Joseph McCaddon, a brother of Mrs. James A. Bailey, was also elected director of the company, which controls the circus. The Barnum & Bailey Circus, which closed its season Saturday night, Nov. 17, at Richmond, Va., went at once into winter quarters at Bridgeport, Conn. During the season the show had toured Maryland, West Virginia, Western New York, the New England States, Canada, and the States of the middle west and South. The storms in the South did much damage to the circus property. Otherwise the season was full of prosperity.
Lew Graham closed with the Ringling Bros. Show, in Arkansas, in a sea of mud. He is re-engaged for next season. During the winter he will travel in the interest of a large Western corporation, making headquarters with the National Printing Co., Chicago.
Sells-Floto Shows in Old Mexico. The tour of Mexico was announced early in the season by William Sells as a pleasure investigating trip, in place of running into the Denver winter quarters. The papers all over the Republic at once took to the proposition to ___ the management in bringing over here the first three ring, two elevated stages and hippodrome track circus in its entirety. Positive orders were issued to all the agents to give this ___ the widest publicity, for pioneering a foreign land just across America's borders, with the biggest tented show every seen here, was a bigger undertaking than even this management conceived. But the enterprise of Mr. Sells is now reaping its reward, for the opening at Monterey was an ovation. However, the Mexico City engagement will settle all arguments and tell the tale. If after four hundred years, it cannot be awakened to real sawdust festivities with such an enormous outfit, display and equipment, it would seem as if the land of Montezuma is satisfied with its own attractions. The tour is a grand one for sight seeing, the weather charming, the laws are just and reasonable. The six hundred people are all in good health, the animals and all equine stock are in excellent condition, and, as the show's regular season was a success, and the money ___, this trip would break even on only a fair business, as the cost of wintering is an asset to be calculated on.
Geo. St. Clair writes: "I will open in Santiago, Chili, having been engaged with the Vidal Theatre and Circus Co., to do comedy bars and my big comedy hit, 'Saito de La Vida.' The engagement lasts for six months, after which I will be back to old New York."
Concerning the Sun Brothers' Southern tour. The above organization continues its tour through the land "o' cane and cotton," and is daily receiving its customary share of public approbation. The crops through the Southland have been generalyy a practical failure this year, and, in consequence, has caused all amusement enterprises, both outdoor and theatrically, to suffer. During the month of October severe cyclonic disturbances visited the Southern portion of Mississippi and sections of Tennessee and Alabama, which completely devastated the cotton and woodlands, and the effects of which will be felt in that section for several years to come. Despite the bad weather, the show had a fairly prosperous career. The Sun aggregation is now in Georgia, renewing old acquaintances, and playing territory where their show has an established household reputation, and where their coming is awaited with joyful anticipation. In a fortnight the show goes into Florida for its fifth consecutive annual tour, and revisits another scene of operations where the show is well liked by officials, press and the general public for its absolute cleanliness, fine business methods and the great merit of its performances. . . . The season opened April __, at Savannah, Ga., and up to the present writing, has visited the following States: Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin, and the closing stand will be in Florida, the latter part of January, 1907. The show will then be shpped directly to the new winter quarters at Macon, Ga. The Messrs. Sun have recently acquired a lease of several years of Central City Park, in that city. The place is admirably adapted for a winter home, containing commodious buildings for workshops, animal houses, sleeping quarters, practising barn, and ample trackage for the railway equipment. The 1907 season will open at Macon, very early in March. Since crossing the Mason & Dixon line, in September, the show has entirely eliminated the giving of street parades. The abandonment of this traditional circus feature by a "ten car train" show, was a bold stroke to attempt. It has, however, proved to be a success, no material decrease in the receipts being noticeable. Big "lot crowds" assemble early every morning to witness the advertised free exhibitions, which are of such an ultra-startling character that they satisfy the most exacting ruralite that expected to see the "free, glittering, gorgeous street pageant." No parades will be given next season. The following performers are now presenting the "big top" programme: the Carl Lamy Acrobatic Troupe, Mr. and Mrs. Orrin Hollis, Lindsley, Plank and Lindsley, Master George Sun Jr., Master Melvin Hollis, Minnie Ashburne, Marvelous Lamberto, William Connors, Stone and Hamp, ___ Stanley, Frederick Wright, and John Parker and Walter Ashburne's military and comedy elephants. Orrin Hollis is the equestrian director. The concert show is offered by the following vaudevillians: Carnold Sisters, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Young, Miss Sprinkle, Ashburne's acrobatic canines, and Wright and Stanley. The big annex, directed by James W. Beattie, has had a prosperous life all summer. It has done nicely, and the performances introduced have more than "made good." In this department will be found: Mlle. Veola, mystic marvel; Prof. Silvers, comique magician; Miss ___, snake hypnotist; Mayfield Sisters, sketch team; Sylvia, radium danseuse; Miss De Leon, physical culture act; Goldstein's marionettes; the Lone Star Quartette, and Prof. Antonio La Cavera's Royal Venetian Brass Band. The "big show" brass band includes the following instrumentalists: J. Willis Mall, J. H. Badger, Jos. Reichert, Leo North, Floyd Sprinkle, Arthur Bryant, V. H. ___, Granville Brown, John Parker, Jack Young, W. W. Plank and Eugener Welker, director. The operating end of the show has been in excellent hands all season, and the outfit has been "up and down" on scheduled time. The bosses include: Dick Richards, superintendent of canvas; Dr. ?. A. Smith, V. S. and superintendent of stables; Frank Jones, boss hostler; John Reynolds, superintendent side show canvas; Arville Clark, superintendent of props, and James C. Cherry, the general superintendent. The executive force is the same as at the inaugural of the season, with George and Peter Sun, managing directors; George Sun, manager; Peter Sun, general agent; C. S. Clarke, contracting agent; Clinton Newton, press agent; J. L. Lamberto, treasurer; R. S. Woods, advance car manager; Col. H. H. Sylvester, merchants' advertising manager, and J. C. M. Bremer, manager of confectionery and refreshment privileges.
Rippel Show notes. We have been out since last May, and have broken the record in Indiana. We will close our tenting season Dec. _, at Oaktown, Ind. The show will go out next season with seven cages, using a ___ft. top and a big top 70x100. Will carry thirty-five people. Winter quarters will remain at Frankfort, Ind.
Ed. Daley, press agent for Gentry Bros.' Shows, arrived home Nov. 24, having closed a thirty-seven weeks' season. The Gentry Shows, No. 1 and 2, will winter at the fair grounds, San Antonio, Tex., and the season of 1907 will open early in March.
Joseph Berris has just closed a successufl season as equestrian director of the Great Cole Bros.' United Shows.
Frank, "The Broom King," and Maybelle, snake enchantress, closed a successful thirty weeks' engagement with the Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Shows, at Water Valley, Miss., Nov. 17.
Charles Clawson, a circus man, who joined Robinson's Shows at Elkhart, Ind., was killed on the Pennsylvania Railroad, at Plainfield, O., Nov. 25.
New York Clipper, December 15, 1906, pp. 1139, 1140. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Riggs' Wild West and Historical Frontier Exhibition closed a very successful season of thirty weeks at ___, Ark., Nov. __. The show will winter at Parkin, Cross County, Ark., which is the centere of extensive real estate possesions, known as ___ Rigs' Plantations, owned by Capt. C. W. Riggs. The stock will be turned out, and preparations to greatly enlarge the show next Spring will commence at once.
The first section of the Hagenbeck special train was wrecked on Dec. 4, on the Gonzales branch of the Southern Pacific, between Gonzales and Harwood. Two flat cars were derailed and $12,000 damage was done to the paraphernalia of the show. One of the circus employees was seriously injured and four lions were bruised. A ticket wagon valued at $10,000 was smashed. The show reached San Antonio several hours late. The morning parade was abandoned, but the afternoon and night performances were given accordin to schedule.
Early on the morning of Dec. 3, at Robardo, N.C., a small station on the Aberdeen and Asheboro Railroad, a train carrying John Sparks' Circus was wrecked. One showman, whose name was not learned, was killed and two others were fatally injured. Several cars were smashed and two horses and one pony belonging to the show were killed.
The Steiner Bros. closed a very successful season with the Hagenbeck Circus, Nov. 7, in New Orleans, and opened with the Sells-Floto Circus Nov. 12, for five weeks in Mexico. They open Dec. 23 for fifteen weeks over the Sullivan & Considine circuit.
Chas. H. Turney is at his home in Memphis, Mo., after a very successful season as bandmaster with the great Cole Bros. Shows. He will have the band again next season, making his third in that capacity.
The Four Karoly Brothers, whose riding act has been a big success for the past season, have sailed for Europe for a brief visit, and will return in time to open with the same show next March. They played the Tampa, Fla. Fair, Nov. 15-30, and were awarded the diploma for daring and skillful riding. Their jockey act was done while horses were running at racing speed on the regular track.
New York Clipper, December 22, 1906, pp. 1164, 1165. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Jas. F. Caldwell has been engaged to do his triple baton, gun and knife juggling acts with the Al. F. Wheeler Circus, for 1907.
Notes from the J. E. Henry Show. We are in winter quarters at Stonewall, Ind. Ter., Mr. Henry's home. The weather is fine, and the animals are in good condition. Mr. Henry is increasing his winter quarters here, adding a shed to the barn, large enough to hold ten more horses. The show will be enlarged next season to a fifteen wagon show, will carry about thirty people and a band. Mr. Henry is breaking in four more Shetland ponies that are thoroughbreds. They are three years old, and only weigh __ pounds each, height 34 inches, and will also add five or six more dogs to his troupe, which is now one of the best troupes of French poodles on the road.
Robert A. Marshall, well known circus man, who was formerly with the Doris & Calvin Shows, died at the Warren Hotel, Denver, Colo., Nov. 30, from dropsy.
New York Clipper, December 29, 1906, p. 1189. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Great Wagner Show. We have closed a most successful season of twenty-two weeks, playing western Wisconsin. The show is now at its quarters in Milwaukee, Wis., and we are getting everything ready for the season of 1907. We have just bought a new sleeping car, and it is without a doubt a beauty. We will also add then Shetland ponies, twenty dogs and four monkeys to our trained stock, and a new top, 70x110 feet. Everyone is well, and we look forward to a prosperous season in 1907.
Adam Gillespie, who for the past two seasons has filled the position of assistant manager with Al. F. Wheeler's Shows, is re-engaged in the same capacity for the season of 1907. He will spend the holidays and a short vacation with his family at Calais, Me., after which he will return to the New Model winter quarters at Oxford, Pa.
The affairs of Barnum & Bailey's Circus were mentioned in the Probate Division of the High Court, London, Eng., last week, on an application that Mrs. Ruth Louisa Bailey be appointed administratrix pendente ___ of the estate of her late husband, James Anthony Bailey. Mr. Bailey held nearly half the shares, viz., ___ [167,000?]. Another director was now needed in Mr. Bailey's place, and the widow was anxious that her shares should be registered so that she might be represented at the election. Justice Dean granted the application.
Important news comes from winter quarters of the Ringling Bros. Shows, at Baraboo, Wis. The news is to the effect that on Dec. 5, at Baraboo, there was effected the consolidation of the Ringling Bros. and Hagenbeck Shows. Further information relative to the transaction states that the transaction involved the transfer of the controlling interest in the Hagenbeck Show to the Ringling Bros., who will manage it next season as an independent attraction, and, instead of presenting the animals in one ring, as formerly, there will be three rings, in which trained animal features will be presented. The enlargement of the Hagenbeck Show, along many other lines is being considered, and as the success of this organization during the past season was pronounced, it is perfectly safe to predict still greater results for it under the skillful handling of the Messrs. Ringling. As now arranged, the Hagenbeck Show will begin its next season in New Orleans next Spring.
Edwin Aloysius Braddock, a well known bill poster, died at his home in Newark, O., on Dec. __. At various times he was connected with the advance brigades of Gollmar Bros., Beverly's Wild West, John Robinson, Ringling Bros. and Forepaugh & Sells. During the winter months he did the bill posting for the Opera House, Music Hall and the Auditorium of his home city. For the past five years he had been superintendent of the Newark branch of the ___ System, bill posters, Newark, O.
John Nelson (Happy Jack) Abrams, press agent, died from dropsy on Dec. __, after a long illness, aged sixty years. He handled the press matter for Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show when it was first organized. Interment was at Ridgefield, Conn. His wife survives him.
1907
New York Clipper, January 5, 1907, p. 1212. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Art Brazill, acrobat, whose name in private life was A. L. Furnas [Fornas?], died recently at Phoenix, Ariz., from consumption. He had been in Phoenix for about two years. Mr. Brazill, who was known in the profession for many years, was formerly of the vaudeville team, Brazill and Alton, and later of Brazill and Brazill. For several years he was with Ringling Brothers and the Adam Forepaugh Shows.
New York Clipper, January 19, 1907, pp. 1262, 1266. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Jas. A. Morrow, manager of the Sells-Floto side shows, reports that the trip to Old Mexico was a pronounced financial success, and that on six occasions he was forced to close the ticket offices and doors of the annex. The programme greatly pleased the natives, and it was a common occurrence to see hundreds pass out at the conclusion of the bill, buy tickets again and return. Roster of the Sells-Floto side shows: Jas. A. Morrow, manager and adjuster; Sheeney Bush and Frenchy, ticket sellers; George Johnson, front door; Wm. O'Day, boss of canvas, with ten assistants; Walter McDermott, stage director; Prof. Young and colored band of ten pieces; Essie Williams and her troupe of colored singers, dancers and cake walkers; Sam McDaniels, comedian; Del Fengo, fire king; Princess Lulu, tattooed wonder; Kaney, novelty musical act; Montana Jack and Martina, knife throwers; Mitchell Sisters, La Belle Flora, Clements and McAllister, Maude Smith, Prof. Alex. Windecker, Alfreda and Cereta, Little Sunday, Princess Julietta, Aga, illusion, and Oriental annex.
The Troopers' Club, of Philadelphia, received first prize at the New Year's shooters' parade, for being the most comical club in the parade. The judges were: William Campbell, of the Hargreaves Show; Edward Maxwell, of the Hagenbeck Show; Otto Hoffman, of the Van Amburg Show; Nate Davis, late of the Barnum & Bailey Show, and Benny Casper, of the Pawnee Bill Show. Mart Monroe made a great impression as the principal clown. Captain Henry Horn also made a hit as chief of the Indians. The following well known gentlemen were in the parade: William Anderson, Kid Bickel, Chas. Bell, Chas. Zepp, John McCloskey, Frank Burns, Old Phil, Cupid Forepaugh, Hugh Glackin, Gus Anderson, Side Show Joe, Walter La Van, William Lane, Benny Hamilton, Jack Wickler, William ___, Geo. Ashby, Jas. ___, Harry Fourtner and Frank Pierce.
Walker K. Hill, formerly connected with the Clipper, has signed as contracting press agent with the Buffalo Bill Show, for the coming season.
Joe Deltorelli, of the Three Casinos, writes from Havana, Cuba, under date of Dec. 24, 1906, as follows: "We opened here last night to a big house. After the performance, manager Pubillones gave a Christmas supper to the entire company. . . . At the manager's table were: P. Barlow and wife, La Belle Geraldine, Mr. Pubillones, Three Clarkonian, Three Casinos, Clown Pito, Mr. Burtinos and wife, and the business staff of the Grand Pubillones Circus. . . .
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. Next season Mr. Wheeler will feature a new opening spectacle, "The Queen of Nations," also an innovation in the way of a children's miniature menagerie department. Several new trained animal displays will be exploited, and new model ideas instituted in every department. The entire outfit will be decorated in white and gold, and will present a very attractive appearance when it starts forth for the summer campaign. . . . The advance forces will be under the direction of F. J. Frink. Four wagons will be used ahead, and every sheet of paper used will be of special design and the most elaborate ever put up by a wagon show.
Chas. Watson, with the Sells-Floto Show, writes: "We were in the Republic of Mexico one month and three days, nine days of which were spent in the City of Mexico . . . [The show] was to have wintered in Los Angeles, but after arriving there it was decided to bring the show out to Venice, Cal., which by the way, is another Coney Island, located on the coast, thirty minutes' ride from Los Angeles . . . There is a midway here, and the show has placed their animals on exhibition there."
Ted Hill, "King of Calliope Players," has signed with the Campbell Bros. Shows for next season, making his second season with this enterprising show. Mr. Hill writes: "The show has just closed its most successful season since its origin. It will be greatly enlarged next season, which makes its prospects brighter than ever before."
Pierre M. Lambach, late advance agent to Warren's Circus, touring East Asia, China, etc., left, Dec. 29, for the West Indies, South America, etc., as general advance agent to Tony Lowande's Circus and Animal Show. ?. Ceballos and Don Carlos also sailed same date, to join the show.
Notes from Sun Bros.' Florida tour. . . . This is the fifth consecutive tour of the show in this territory, and, as usual, is doing a nice business . . . A new zoologic member has been added to the menagerie department, a baby camel being born, Dec. 20, to the giant female camel, "Big Alice." The "baby" is jet black in color, is strong and healthy, and is a big attraction for the many lady and children visitors. The new youngster has been named "Miami," being christened in that city on Dec. 23. . . . Extensive preparations are going on to receive the show at the new winter quarters, Central City Park, Macon, Ga., as the show will reach there Jan. 17.
Notes from the Columbia Circus. Dan Du Crow is representing the circus. We opened in Havana, Dec. __, for three days, to big business. We are touring the island of Cuba, and will close about March 20. Roster is as follows: . . . Three Herbert Bros., acrobats; the Toledo Troupe . . . Dan Du Crow, eccentric; Miss Wilson, John Abacco, barrel jumping . . . Funny old Dan Du Crow keeps them laughing with his automobile.
Aimee Austin, "the Human Fly" (Mrs. Phil D. Greene), died in Pittsburg, Pa., on Jan. 11, from cancer, after a long illness. She was born in London, England, Feb. 22, 1870, and became a performer at the age of nine years, being the principal in the Austin Sister' aerial act. She came to this country in ___, to join the W. W. Cole Circus, and has since lived in America. She toured Europe several times, as well as this country and Mexico. Mrs. Greene was formerly a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. Interment was in Allegheny Cemetery, Pittsburg, Jan. 12. Her husband survives her.
Mrs. Maud Livingston, of the Livingston Family, acrobats, died in Bellevue Hospital, New York City, on Jan. 13, from a complication of diseases. The Livingston Family returned from Europe last season to join the Ringling Show. Mrs. Livingston was a native of Louisville, Ky., and married Chas. Livingston in 1880, touring the world with her husband. She recently retired from active work. Her husband, several sisters and a brother survive her. The body was removed to St. Louis, Mo., for burial.
A New Circus Deal. A deal has just been effected whereby the Great Wallace Shows and the Carl Hagenbeck Circus and Trained Animal Exhibitions are to be consolidated and travel in the future as a huge combination of the two shows. This merger will make one more big tent show. The deal has been made between B. E. Wallace, proprietor of the Great Wallace Shows; John H. Havlin, of Cincinnati, and Frank Tate, of St. Louis, owners of the Hagenbeck Show; John O. Talbott, of Denver, Colo., a former associate of Mr. Wallace, and Jerry Mugivan, formerly owner of the Van Amburg Show. Mr. Havlin is the well known theatrical man, of Cincinnati, and has but recently completed the erection of the Hotel Havlin, Cincinnati's new million dollar hostelry. Mr. Tate is prominent in theatrical matters in St. Louis, and has bee president of the Carl Hagenbeck Shows since they were organized. Mr. Wallace will be managing director of the new combination, and will have the assistance of Messrs. Mugivan and Talbott, both of whom are experienced circus men. C. E. Cory, who has been identified with Mr. Wallace for several years, will remain with the show in the same capacity, and W. E. Franklin, who has been Wallace's general agent, will serve as advance manager of the new shows. Messrs. Havlin and Tate, while retaining an interest in the shows, will not be actively identified with its management. By the consolidation of these two great enterprises the Wallace-Hagenbeck Shows will be second to none. The aggregation will travel on eighty-five cars, and will embrace the best circus talent obtainable, and in addition, will have the Hagenbeck Trained Animals, the equal of which has never been even attempted by any American show.
The Hagenbecks have been exhibiting in Old Mexico, but the season was immediatley closed upon the announcement of the deal, and the shows will start at once en route to Peru, for the winter, probably arriving next week. The property will be taken to the Wallace winter quarters, which are to be greatly enlarged and otherwise arranged for the reception and care of the newly acquired property. The Hagenbeck Shows travel in fifty cars, and the menagerie includes, among others, the rarest animals in captivity: twenty elephants, and nearly an equal number of camels and other beasts of every variety that go with a circus. The work of perfecting the reorganization will be commenced upon the arrival of the Hagenbeck property. A number of new buildings, for the housing and training of animals, will be necessarily be put up at once, as soon as the project can be arranged. The management will become active at once, arranging for the coming season, which will be opened in Peru on the last Saturday in April, as usual. The shows will maintain offices in Chicago, Cincinnati, St. Louis, New York, and Hamburg, Germany.
New York Clipper, January 26, 1907, pp. 1294, 1286. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Joseph T. McCaddon and Delevan A. Holmes, of the Board of Directors of the Barnum & Bailey Circus, who have been in England attending the meeting of the English stockholders, arrived in America on Jan. 11. Mr. McCaddon said the meeting of the English stockholders was held in London, Dec. 31, and that the passing of the dividend, as well as the reorganization of the circus company, had met with approval. Mr. McCaddon said that the passing of the dividend was due to the rainy weather which the circus encountered last Summer. Notwithstanding this the circus had played to within $15,000 of its former year's business, the receipts being more than a million and a half dollars. The new executives of the circus are: W. W. Cole, managing director; Joseph T. McCaddon, chairman of the board of directors. Directors: Frederick Hutchinson, Charles A. Holmes and A. J. Greenof.
Notes from Leon Washburn's Show. J. W. Brownlee will run all the privileges with Washburn's Famous Trained Animal Shows. It will be a seven car show, and will have several acts of trained wild animals, also ponies, dogs and monkeys. Several trainers are now breaking animals at our winter quarters at Bound Brook, N.J. Fred Corey will have charge of the stock, and J. H. Roman will be boss canvas men. Takazawa's Troupe of Japs will be featured in the big show. G. H. Irving will be with the side show. G. Annita's band will furnish the music, rain or shine. J. Gallagher will be in charge of the elephants.
Wabash, Ind., notes. A trained dog belonging to the Holder Circus, now in winter quarters here, kicked over a lamp on Jan. _, which set fire to an old building, where the animals were quartered. There was a panic among the animals, but the flames were subdued before any great damage was done.
Barnum & Bailey Circus news. New impetus has been given to the Barnum & Bailey Circus by the satisfactory results of the annual meeting of the stockholders in London, Dec. 31. All the propositions made by the directors were endorsed, the new board of directors was unanimously approved, and the wisdom of passing the dividend was concurred in by the stockholders. The board as now constituted is as follows: W. W. Cole, managing director; Joseph T. McCaddon, chairman; Frederic B. Hutchinson, Chas. R. Hutchinson, Delevan Allen Holmes and A. J. Greenop. The latter is an English attorney and will represent the interests of the English stockholders. Mr. Holmes is the American attorney of the company. Mr. McCaddon is Mrs. J. A. Bailey's brother, and the Messrs. Hutchinson are her nephews, so that it is apparent that the Bailey interest is still paramount in the management of the show. The list of English stockholders is also decreasing, and as their holdings are readily taken up whenever they are put on the market, it is only a question of a short time before the show is entirely owned in this country again. The passing of the dividend, it is announced, was considered good business policy in view of the losses sustained by the heavy storms in the South last Fall, and the necessity for thoroughly re-equipping the show for the season of 1907. The splended financial condition of the show is evidenced by the fact that there is a reserve fund of $605,000, which is at the disposal of the management to meet any condition that may arise. W. W. Cole, the new managing director, has taken up the work of organizing the show for the new season with all his old time vim and energy. There are a thousand and one details to be looked after, but Mr. Cole's long and successful career as a showman have eminently fitted him for the work. He is very much in touch with the business staff of the show, and the organization is harmonious throughout. Louis E. Cooke, who ill act in the dual capacity of general agent for both the Barnum & Bailey and Buffalo Bill shows, has had a strenuous winter, but will undoubtedly feel repaid by the unusually attractive character of the pictorial paper and distributing matter for the new season. W. D. Coxey has written the publications for the Barnum & Bailey Show, and Major John M. Burke and Charles Stowe are responsible for the descriptive matter utilized in the Buffalo Bill literature. W. R. Macdonald, secretary to the Barnum & Bailey board of directors has been ill, but is again able to be at his desk in the New York office. Chas. R. Hutchinson, director and treasurer of Barnum & Bailey, is handling the refitting of the two shows at the Bridgeport (Conn.) winter quarters. A large force of men has been employed all winter, and an immense amount of work has been done. The Buffalo Bill train will be practically all new, and a large number of new cars will be added to the Barnum & Bailey equipment. A great many new horses will also be required for the shows, and they are now being purchased. The uniforms and various costumes utilized in the various displays of the two shows will all be new. Charles R. and Fred B. Hutchinson are owners of a large roller skating rink which has been in course of construction in Bridgeport, Conn., during the past few months. It is nearing completion and will be opened in a few days. Fred Hutchinson arrived from England a week ago. R. M. Harvey, contracting agent, reported Jan. 15, and will shortly be renewing old friendships with bill posters, lot owners and others along the line. Among the recent callers at the Barnum & Bailey general offices were Frank H. Talbert and C. E. Corey, of the Wallace Shows; W. E. Fuller, of the Hagenbeck Show; Col. "Bob" Campbell of the American Bill Posting Co., Chicago, Ill.; L. H. Ramsey, of the Ramsey Bill Posting Syndicate, Lexington, Ky., and Will J. Davis, the Chicago theatrical manager. A recent cable to managing director W. W. Cole, from Singapore, announces the purchase of four very rare proboscis monkeys. The will be shipped immediately, and, in case they survive the long voyage, will undoubtedly prove a great addition to the show's Simian display. The management's offer of $10,000 for a practical flying machine without balloon attachment, has brought scores of propositions, but up to date none of them are practical. In nearly every instance the inventor simply "thinks he has exactly what is wanted," but needs money to develop his scheme. It is still hoped, however, that the large amount offered will lead to the development of a practical air ship.
Wm. J. Yager, stilt acrobat and slack wire performer, has signed with the Great Van Amburg Shows for 1907, this making his third season with the shows.
Notes from E. G. Smith's Colossal Shows and Trained Animal Exposition. The new year will see the remodeling of the "Little Giant" in full swing, and the sound of hammer and saw will tell the natives that something new will be doing in April, when the outfit leaves its cosy winter home. Our parade will be greatly enlarged next season. Two new cages have been added, and a fine new band wagon is being built. Manager Smith has just returned from a trip West, where he has left orders for a lot of new parade paraphernalia, tents, etc. All canvas will be new, our big top, seventy feet, with forty feet middle piece; dress top, thirty feet; cook top, twenty by thirty; horse tent, thirty by fifty. The business staff of the show remains the same as the past five seasons, but many new acts will be booked for next season. The success of this show is an established fact, and everything is being done to strengthen its already strong hold on public esteem and patronage.
Notes from the Aiton & Anderson Shows. Clyde Anderson, one of the managers of the show, has been in Kansas City for a week, looking after new wagons for the show. The little show is now in winter quarters, at Glenrock, Pa., and will open about the last of May, with a new outfit.
Eugene Elliott Powell, in private life, Eugene Elliott, died at his home in Bay City, Mich., Jan. 10, from paralysis, aged thirty years. He was formerly of the vaudeville team, Robbs and Powell. At various times he was with Ringling Bros., Forepaugh & Sells Bros., and the John Robinson Shows. He was with Ringling Bros. when taken ill, at Philadelphia. His mother and two brothers survive him.
New York Clipper, February 9, 1907, p. 1351. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Clinton Newton, official representative (back with show) of the Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows, writes that his attraction closed its fifteenth season on Saturday night, Jan. 12, at Tifton, Ga. Beautiful weather characterized the closing day, and good attendance ruled at both afternoon and night performances. The season just finished embraced forty weeks, and throughout was pleasant and profitable. The show traveled as far South as Tampa, Fla. A total distance of 10,720 miles was traveresed during the season. The show arrived at Macon, Ga., Jan. 14, and immediately occupied its new home in that city. It is located at Central City Park, and is an ideal spot, with commodious and elaborate buildings, containing all the modern conveniences for rebuilding purposes, sheltering animals and for practicing new acts. The Sun Show for 1907 will be greatly augmented in every department. Everything from train to canvas, will be of the best. The menagerie department will receive many new additions, making this end of the show one of unusual importance. The new season is scheduled to open at Macon, some time early in March. There is quite a colony of circus and theatrical folk wintering at Macon this year. The weather is great here, Springlike and balmy, and really appears to them like an all Summer vacation.
Le Ven writes: "The Cooper Shows having closed at Mobile, I am now en route with the Jones R. R. Shows, through the South."
Notes from the Great Wagner Show. Everyone is busy around winter quarters here, getting things in shape for the coming season of 1907. Our new sleeping car arrived two weeks ago, and it is a beauty. Manager Geo. Wagner is very busy, breaking in his new dogs and ponies, in first class shape before we open again. Already most of last season's people are engaged, and we will have one of the best little shows of its kind in the business. We will also have one of the finest main entrances of any show, with all solid brass railings, and our free exhibit will consist of Murphy, jumping the gap. Manager Wagner will make this one of the foremost small shows in America.
Edward Gavin, exponent of physical culture, states that he has met with great success in his new act, showing the wonderful dislocation of the shoulder blades, while he was with the Main-Cummins Wild West Show, and will this summer have another new act.
Edward Arlington, for many years confidential advisor of the late James A. Bailey, and who routed the Barnum & Bailey Circus and safeguarded its railroad journeys here and abroad, has purchased a half interest in Pawnee Bill's Wild West Show. Mr. Arlington says he will participate with Pawnee Bill in the active management of the enterprise. W. C. Thompson, press representative of the Hippodrome while Thompson & Dundy were its managers, will have charge of the publicity department of the enterprise.
Castello & Co. write: "Everything is all ready with the Castello & Co.'s Railroad Shows for the opening in May, and for a small show we will have one of the best equipped railroad shows on the road."
The Merrick Concert Band, now at the Coliseum, Louisville, Ky., will be greatly augmented for the season with the Greater Wallace-Hagenbeck Circus, making it one of the finest musical organizations on the road.
William La Rue writes: "Oscar Lowande's Indoor Circus, here in Reading, Mass., is now in its sixth week, and business is fine. We have one of the best equipped winter circus buildings in this country, well heated, all the electric light appliances are up-to-date, the latest fire equipments, and a seating capacity for eight hundred. Three performances are given weekly, on Tuesday night, Saturday matinee and Saturday night. The programme is changed weekly, and given by the following performers: Oscar Lowande, principal somersault and jockey rider, doing his original creation, a somersault from one horse to another while they are running tandem; Mrs. Oscar Lowande, principal female equestrienne; Geo. Cole, bounding rope, double trapeze, etc.; Mres. Geo. Cole, single trapeze, rings and wire; Harry Bennett, contortionist and revolving perch; Frank T. St. John, principal leaper and equestrian director. John Lancaster and Wm. La Rue have charge of the comedy end of the show, which is well taken care of. Jan. 8 was Mr. Lowande's thirtieth birthday anniversary, and it was celebrated by the performers and his many friends. He was the recipient of a very beautiful wine closet, a gift from his wife. A dance followed the supper, to the enjoyment of all present."
Notes from Freed & Perrine United Shows. We are all making active preparations for next season. We will open early in May at Eaton Rapids, Mich., the present winter quarters. Prof. Perrine has been busy all winter breaking in stock. A new pony drill will be one of the features, in addition to "Doodles," the smallest performing pony known, and the famous Shetland mule, Maud. Aerial and other arenic acts will be carried. We will use ten wagons, twenty-four head of horses, ponies and mules. An entire new outfit has been ordered of ___, of Detroit, Mich., consisting of big top, sixty foot round top, thirty foot middle piece, ten by ten marque, eighteen by thirty pony and dressing tent, twelve by eighteen cook tent, twenty-eight by forty-six horse tent, and a special line of paper will be used.
Notes from Cole Brothers quarters, Harbor Creek, Erie County, Pa. Until Martin Downs established the winter quarters of the Cole Brothers' Circus there, the place was unknown in the ___ of county maps, and railroads ___ through it did not think it worthy of even a freight train stop. It is a suburb of the flourishing city of Erie, and it is now only a question of a few years before Erie will have absorbed it and made it part of itself. Since Cole Brothers' new winter quarters were established there, Harbor Creek is being talked about. The trolley line plying between Erie and Jamestown has built a station at the circus' quarters, and both the Lake Shore and Nickel Plate railroads have built freight stations. Little cottages adjacent to the quarters that have been unoccupied for many years, are now the homes for men who are employed by the Cole Brothers' show. The sleepy proprietor of a country hotel, whose patrons heretofore have been only those who were driving past and were compelled to stop to water their horses, awoke so thoroughly as to take boarders and serve ___ every noon. Farmers point with no little pride at the handsome and commodious building, and are even hinting to petition to have the name of the village changed from Harbor Creek to Downsville. They are prouder of the circus and its winter quarters than Manhattan is of its tall buildings, and if ever the "burg" finds it necessary to have a head, it will be Mr. Downs, and Eddie Knupp will be made corporation counsel. The winter quarters are now one busy spot. From the time the huge whistle over the wagon shop blows at seven o'clock each morning, until its shrill note announces a full day's work of eight hours, everything his hustle. System is everywhere evident, and the men at work are men skilled in the work to which they have been assigned. They are not the clas of men who are usually found around a circus winter quarters. They are mechanics who receive a full day's pay for a full day's work, the same as every other mechanic does. There are nearly a half hundred men now busy fitting out, and the complete equipment of every department facilitates the work perfectly. Twelve new wagons are being built, and every wagon that came in is being thoroughly overhauled. The stock remains in perfect condition. The ring barn is seldom empty, and many new acts are well under way. Joseph Berris will spring a new sensation in a monstrous horse act, and an animal act is being prepared that will eclipse any ever before taken on the road. In the office Mr. Downs and Mr. Knupp are putting in full time, and accomplishing much. Artists are busy designing new paper, four typewriters have been found necessary to care for the correspondence, while the heads of the various departments are in daily consultation with Mr. Downs. While the winter payroll could be cut considerably, Mr. Downs says that cheap labor is always expensive in the long run, and he will always give good men the preference. The advance is being organized along lines that will insure its perfection. There is not a "student" signed up, not even among the men on the cars. They are all men well up in the game, and men who have been selected for their ability. Now, since the Wallace and the Hagenbeck shows have united, the Cole Brothers Show comes in to fill a nich in the amusement world that otherwise must have been left vacant. The reputation it has made and the field it has now entirely to itself, is an indisputable indication of deserved success.
Capt. John Holtum, the veteran physical culture exponent, has finished a successful season with the Norris & Rowe Circus. He writes that handling cannon balls, although he is sixty-one years old, is still a delight and pleasure to him, and that increasing age has no terrors for him.
Zech and Zech, aerialists, are engaged for their fourth consecutive season with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows.
The Three Corellis have been re-engaged to produce their acrobatic comedies with the Forepaugh & Sells Shows the coming season. Mr. Corelli was in New York last week, preparing new material for the opening.
Notes from Cancie Bros.' Union Shows. This show is to open its first season on May 1, presenting a modern, thoroughly equipped and strictly high class circus performance and hippodrome, also an extensive menagerie, etc. The outfit in its entirety is all new, and will travel on five cars. The winter quarters are located at Cranston, R. I., just outside of Providence, and present a daily scene of activity, getting everything in readiness for the proposed opening date in ample time. Frank E. Tracy has been engaged as general agent, and has his office at Cranston, where he is attending to preliminaries, arranging the route, printing and other details. There will be an advertising brigade of twelve experts, and it is expected they will make quite a little "noise" ahead of the show. John E. Garvey, the advertising agent of the Academy of Music, Fall River, Mass., will have charge of the brigade.
The Three Irwins have closed with the Mighty Haag Show, and are taking a rest at Shreveport, La., for a few weeks.
Kid Koster, a well known circus agent, has signed as advertising agent with the Amelia Bingham Co. Mr. Koster will be connected with a well known Eastern park next Summer, on the advertising staff.
John D. Carey, who was general agent of the Pawnee Bill Wild West last season, will not be with that show this year, but will go with the Cole Brothers' Show, as assistant to Ed. C. Knupp.
The new Park City Skating Rink, at Bridgeport, Conn., which is a personal enterprise of Charles R. and Fred B. Hutchinson, of the Barnum & Bailey directorate, and their partner, Charles Fleming, was auspiciously opened Saturday evening, Jan. 26. . . . The rink is located near the Barnum & Bailey winter quarters . . .
Rippel Show notes. We are in the coal fields of Indiana, and our business is very fair, considering that we have had only two sunshiny days in seven weeks, with rain every night. We aim to close our hall show about Feb. __, and then pull in for home, at Frankfort, Ind., to get ready for our tenting season.
New York Clipper, February 16, 1907, p. 1372. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Willie E. Washburn, an old time showman, died recently in Fredonia, Kan., at the home of his sister, aged sixty-five years. Mr. Washburn was an old time circus and vaudeville performer, first entering the circus profession with E. S. Washburn's Circus and Indian Amphitheatre, some fifty years ago. When Mr. Washburn Sr. gave up the circus business, and put on the road his first vaudeville company, known as Washburn's Last Sensation, Willie remained with him, and continued with him until the old gentleman died, some ten years ago. About forty years ago Willie joined hands with Leon W. Washburn, now of "Uncle Tom's Cabin" fame, and together they did gymnastic and acrobatic work. Since the death of the elder Washburn, Willie has lived with his sister. Shortly after his connection with the vaudeville business, he married Neoskaletta, the Indian princess, who now resides at Centerport, L. I., with her daughter, Lillian, one of the famous Washburn Sisters.
New York Clipper, February 23, 1907, pp. A1, A2, 23. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Mackay's European Circus. The seventh regular season of Mackay's European Circus, an arenic organization of European headliners, and comprising two rings and elevated stage, will be inaugurated at Chicago, May, 6, 1907. Hugh Coyle is general agent. Dr. M. C. Du Crow is equestrian director. Jack Doyle again has charge of the canvas and train. R. W. Du Bell is bandmaster.
Ed. H. Bell writes that he has again leased the privileges with Al. F. Wheeler's Shows, making his fourth season with the "New Model." He will have as his first assistant his son, Harry, who made many friends with the show last season, who will have charge of the outside stands, and it is safe to say that the "little store" will again do a land office business. For fear that some of the troupers will spend their money foolishly, Mr. Bell will next summer add a lunch wagon to his outfit.
The Five Juggling Lambertos, under the direction of John L. Lamberto, will be one of the "top line" features in the programme of Sun Brothers' Shows this coming season. The Lambertos introduce a novelty in club juggling, which they claim will be out of the ordinary.
Charles Gerlach is engaged as director of the "Big Show" band and orchestrs with Sun Brothers' World's Progressive Shows for the coming season. Mr. Gerlach will have a complement of twenty men in his party. A feature will be made of his organization by the Messrs. Sun.
Wm. Rowland (Cowles), formerly clown with Howe's and other shows, his relatives, or anyone knowing their whereabouts are requested to communicate with John W. Holmes, 130 Sterling Place, Brooklyn, N.Y., concerning a matter of importance ot Mr. Rowland.
Harry Overton, of Findlay, O., a well known manager, has signed again for the coming season as superintendent of Riggs' Rough Riders, Wild West and Historical Frontier Exhibition.
Inquiries have been made regarding Proprietor Klenkner, of Kleckner's Circus, in 1872. Information concerning him will be thankfully recieved.
Ben Lucier has signed with the Norris & Rowe Shows, to do his ladder and table act and swinging perch, making his second season with that show.
Notes of Gollmar Bros.' side show for next season. The side show for next season will be much larger and grander than Gollmar Bros. have ever attempted in the past. As the side show is strictly in keeping with the big show, everything is gilt edged. Our top is 60 feet, with two 30s, twelve feet stage, fourteen paintings and three boxes. Roster of side show: Ticket sellers - Box 1, Lew Aronson, manger; Box 2, Harry Parker, Box 3, Ralph Bailey; Glynn Towns, magician; Prof. Ditto, Punch and Judy; Harry Moulton, ventriloquist; Margie Moulton, song and dance; Charles La Sorr, musical act; George Meltvan, tattooed man; Maxie, needle eater; James Morris, elastic skin man, and Mille Clifford, sword swallower, who is a feature. Conceded by press and public of both hemispheres to be the greatest act in her line ever seen. Side show band will consist of six mouth pieces and two drums. Taking into consideration that Gollmar Bros.' Shows consists of twenty-five cars, this undoubtedly will make the stronget side show ever carried by a firm of this size.
The Mighty Haag Shows closed a season of forty-six weeks at Houghton, La., Jan. 23, and are now in winter quarters. Harry R. Rhoder, band leader, has been re-engaged for the Haag Shows, making his twelfth year with Mr. Haag.
Notes from Joyce's Old Time Country Circus. This show will take the road in May, enlarged to double its former size. Mr. Joyce recently spent two weeks in New York. While there he bought several draught horses and some Shetlands. The show is being put in first class shape. About twenty-five horses will be used to carry the show. Most of last season's performers and musicians will be with the show again.
Claude M. Roode has been engaged by the Ringling Bros. for next season, to do his sensational wire act.
James Brooks, wire walker and trapeze performer, is booked with Jones' Enormous Shows for 1907.
Madam Eulalie Lascells, lion tamer, will handle the big lion act with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows next season. She is at present at the Wheeler winter quarters, Oxford, Pa., getting the act in shape. Also breaking several new horse and pony acts. The "New Model" will carry a nine cage menagerie next summer.
The Avallon Troupe, comedy acrobatic 'cyclists, have signed for the coming season with the Norris & Rowd Shows.
Notes from the winter circus, at Jullan's Amphitheatre, Havana, Ill. We have just entered upon the fifth week of one of our best season in the business, and have been crowding our house. We have one of the best barns in the Central West, with a fine ring, well headted, excellent electric lighting features, and a big stage for novelty acts. We have a capacity for four hundred and fifty, including boxes, and give three shows each week (Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday nights). Cecil Lowande is acting as manager, and is very popular in Havana, especially with the business men. With the following array of talent it is easy to change the bill weekly, and insure a good show: Cecil Lowande, principal bareback and back somersault rider; Gus Kraft and his trick mule; Elena Ryland (Mrs. Cecil Lowande), principal equestrienne; Cevene and Percyfield, in their dress and comedy wire act; George ___, unsupported ladder act; Jerry Alton, upside down man; the Alton acrobatic family, Wilfred and Lottie, hand balancing and trained dog act; Four Graceful Grohs, contortionists, hand balancers and foot jugglers; Linda Jeal, rolling globe and equestrienne; Gus Kraft, William Troller, Otis Keltner and Charles Eagers have charge of the clown entries. Harry High, who closed Dec. 31, as leader of the band and orchestra with Dalyrmple Comedy Co., is leading the ten piece band. Frank Madison Jr., who is spending the winter here as city editor of the Star, is acting as press agent for the show, and has been issuing a small sheet, "Circus News," in its interest. The large, roomy stage is often turned into a banquet hall, and all visiting troupers are entertained royally. . . .
Mrs. Charles H. Adams, mother of the well known clowns and pantomimists, Geo. and Jas. R. Adams, celebrated her seventy-seventh birthday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Theo. H. Mackey, in Brooklyn, on Feb. 14. She was the life of a large party of friends, waltzing and joining in the games with the young folks. On Feb. 15 her son, Jas. R., of the Hippodrome, New York, gave her a birthday party at the Hippodrome. This was her first visit to that large show place. She enjoyed the performance greatly, but admired the circus acts specially, as she was brought up in the circus business. Her father, Thomas E. Cooke, came to New York in 1837, from London, Eng., bringing his whole company and a stud of performing horses. They played in a large building on the corner of Fourth Avenue and Astor Place. Mrs. Adams was a rider and wire dancer in her father's company. She was married to Chas. H. Adams, the clown, who died sixteen years ago, in Paterson, N.J. She is very active yet for her age.
Notes from the Flying Jordan Circus. We have certainly met with great success in the country (Central America). Natives say they never saw a show like ours. They fairly stand up in their seats, throw their hats in the air, and yell like Indians. . . . In San Juan, Porto Rico, it was very large. The officers made us stop selling tickets at every performance. We are having a grand time. This is the country to spend the winter in, as we are all hunting the shade in order to keep cool. We open at Panama, Central America, about Feb. 11, and will arrive back on dear old Broadway about April _. Roster of company: Flying Jordans (ten in number), Prof. Bilyck's seals, Seeker Wilkes & Co., the Moxleys, Novikoffs Russian Troupe, the Four Arrogons, and Prof. Smith's band and orchestra.
The ___ & Weyer Company, of this city, who have been lighting nearly all the circuses for the last two years, have just closed a deal with the Barnum & Bailey people to light the Buffalo Bill Show. The system that they are to use is an entirely new one, as the problem of lighting a large outdoor space was one that caused serious trouble, but the result has been very successful. This concern has sold many of the shows of any prominence in this country and Mexico, and all users are loud in their praises of the marvelous brilliancy that their lamps produce.
Notes from Cancie Bros.' Union Shows. John White's Trained Animal Exhibit and troupe of performing horses, ponies, mules, goats and dogs, have been engaged as one of the many special features of Cancie Bros.' Shows for the coming season; also the Great ___, "the man who smiles at strangulation," who will introduce, as an exclusive outside free attraction, his amazing "hangman's slide for life," which is claimed to be the only exploit of its kind ever attempted. Everything is progressing smoothly at winter quarters, at Cranston, R.I., and the new aspirant for arenic recognition will be . . . by May 1, in battle array and thoroughly equipped. General agent Frank E. Tracey is in Fall River on a business trip for a few days, in company with special agent John E. Garvey.
Lew Graham writes: "Ellen Graham and I were divorced on Feb. 7 . . .
By the decision of Surrogate Frank V. Millard, of Westchester County, at White Plains, Feb. 14, the will of James A. Bailey, bequeathing his estate to his widow, Mrs. Ruth McCaddon Bailey, stands, and the claims of the contestants are denied. The decision leaves Mrs. Bailey in undisputed control of her heavy interests in the Barnum & Bailey and Buffalo Bill shows, as well as of all other real and personal estate left by her husband.
New York Clipper, March 9, 1907, p. 91. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Barnum & Bailey notes. The European features for the Barnum & Bailey Circus will begin to arrive in New York early next month. Thursday evening, March 21, has been definitely fixed for the opening performance of the Barnum & Bailey Circus at Madison Square Garden, New York. R. M. Harvey and Charles Hayes, of the contracting staff, have already made arrangements for the exhibition in a large number of the cities to be visited by the big show this season. Many letters have been received by Joseph T. McCaddon, brother of Mrs. J. A. Bailey, expressing satisfaction over the verdict that confirms Mrs. Baily in the possession of the splendid property left by the famous showman. The Royal Troupe of trained thoroughbreds will be one of the equine features of Barnum & Bailey's New York engagement. This is said to be the best troupe of American trained horses now before the public. The myriad publications for the Barnum & Bailey advertising department are practially completed, and in number and character they surpass anything in the way of "circus literature" that the big show has had in many years. W. W. Cole, managing director of the big show, has been busy all winter, organizing the circus company for the season of 1907. The result of his long experience and close application is shown in what is declared to be an exceptionally clever and varied programme of genuine arenic features. James De Wolfe, last season with the Hagenbeck Shows, and for many years associated with well known circus attractions, as been engaged as contracting press agent for Barnum & Bailey. Willard D. Coxey will continue as the picture and story man, from one to two weeks ahead of the show, and Dexter W. Fellows will entertain the press on circus day. Toda Siegrist and all but two of the members of the Siegrist-Silbon Troupe of aerialists, who are engaged with Barnum & Bailey, arrive in New York Feb. __. Edward Silbon remained in London with his wife, Jennie Silbon, who is in a hospital, slowing recovering from a dangerous operation. Mr. Silbon will sail later and rejoin the troupe, but there is no expectation that Mrs. Silbon will be able to appear during the Spring.
Pawnee Bill notes. After spirited bidding by traveling amusement purveyors all over the country, the dramatic spectacle, "The Great Train Robbery," has been awarded to Pawnee Bill by Arthur Voegillo, holder of the copyright, who produced it at Luna Park, New York, last Summer. The production will be a leading feature of Pawnee Bill's Wild West and Far East Show, half interest of which has recently been purchased by Edward Arlington, formerly of the Barnum & Bailey forces. A thirty ton engine and two regulation passenger coaches will be transported from city to city, and other impediments will include portable mountains, steel railroad tracks, a prairie and a forest, dance halls, gambling houses, streets and a reservoir of 100,000 gallon capacity. The piece is a radical departure from the familiar Wild West routine, and marks the end, showmen say, of the time worn Indian battle scene. The traveling rights secured by Pawnee Bill are exclusive.
Will Delavoy writes regarding the busy days about the ring barns of his own and the Davenports, in Chicago. Horse training is, of course, the principal feature of this winter's work. There are two horses of Orrin Davenport's, who, with his wife, Victoria, go with the Forepaugh & Sells Show; one horse of May Davenport's, who also goes with the same show; three horses belonging to Stick Davenport and wife, who return to the Campbell Bros. Show; three horses of Homer Hobson's, who, with his wife, return to the Ringling Show; two horses of Bill Devan and Lizzie Romney, who go with the Gollmar Bros.; one horse of Bob Stickney's, who also goes with the Ringling Show. Lulu Davenport is also here, and with Reno ___, will work with the Wallace-Hagenbeck Show. There are four well known grooms here - E. D. Hutner, Geo. Alexander, Earnest ___ and Fred Heiler.
Capt. Fred Walters, the "blue man," who has been touring abroad for the past four years, with Buffalo Bill's Wild West, sailed from Liverpool, Feb. __, for New York, and on arrival opens at Huber's Fourteenth Street Museum, after which he rejoins the Wild West Show. Mr. Walters has just closed a most successful six weeks' engagment in Glasgow, Scot., where he created a sensation among the medical fraternity.
Notes from Joyce's Old Time Country Circus. We have been very busy all winter, making active preparations for our third tenting season, to open May 28, at Greenwich, N.Y., our present winter quarters. The outfit for next season will be entirely new, and the very best that money can procure. Our top will be an 80ft. round, with two 30ft. middle pieces, and a large dressing tent; 12x14 marquee; will use a 30x50ft. horse tent; to carry the outfit over the road, will have sixteen wagons and forty head of stock, including "Spot," the talking horse; our Shetland ponies, and "Zip," the baby elephant. Jas. Joyce will start a new diversion in wagon shows when he travels from town to town in his automobile. A feature next season will be our concert band of twelve pieces, which will concertize before each show a programme of music ranging from ragtime to the works of standard masters. Fred Lampe has been engaged (second season) as general manager, and Dan Lobdell will go ahead of the show, with two assistants and a very extensive line of special printing, and we feel positive that this will be the banner season of Joyce's Old Time Country Circus.
Grant Allmon, talking and singing clown, has signed for the coming season with Al. F. Wheeler's Shows, making his third season with these shows.
New York Clipper, March 16, 1907, pp. 101, 111. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Kid Koster, in advance of Amelia Bingham Co., has signed with the Wallace-Hagenbeck Shows for the coming season as opposition agent.
J. L. Fusner will manage the side shows with the Great Hargreaves Circus the coming season.
Grant Allmon has signed for the coming season with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows as principal clown, making it his third season with this show. He is at present with Mason Bros.' "Uncle Tom's Cabin" Co., and reports fine business.
Del and Lulu Fuego closed a successful season in Mexico, with the Sells-Floto Show, and are re-engaged for the coming season with the same show.
Chas. H. Tinney, director and manager of Tinney's Band, for the past three seasons with Cole Bros.' Great Shows, informs us that he has signed twenty-five of the best men in the circus business the coming season, and will handle everything in the musical bill from popular songs to standard overtures. C. H. Tinney and his concert band have been re-engaged for the Cole Bros.' Show for this season.
Mr. and Mrs. A. F. Tuttle wish to state that they are in no way connected with the Geo. W. Loudon Olympic Show, of Greenville, Pa., having sold out the show to Mr. Loudon last season. They will manage a tent show this season for Ed. Thardo and Helene Tuttle Thardo. Everything will be brand new from stake to centre pole, and the show will run on the same plan as Mr. and Mrs. Tuttle did their wagon show for the last eighteen years. Everybody is busy around the winter quarters at Linesville, buying new wagons, horses, tents, etc. They will tour through Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
The winter quarters of the great Hargreaves Railroad Shows, at Chester, Pa., are the scene of much bustle and activity these days, the heads of the various departments being busily engaged in preparing for next summer's tour. In the general offices, at the Arcade Hotel, manager Thomas Hargreaves, J. Henry Rice, general agent; Josh Baily, business manager, and Sam J. Banks, general press representative, are hard at work along executive lines. Charles O'Brien, superintendent, who has been in Chester since the first of January, says that he is ready to put the show out "as soon as the band plays." Equestrian director Fred Locke and George Colby are perfecting a series of clever and unique equestrian acts, and train superintendent Lawrence has a large force of men employed in putting the finishing touches on the cars. Two advertising cars will be sent out ahead of the Great Hargreaves Circus this year.
The Aherns have been in America for just a month, after putting in a long season in vaudeville and with circuses in Cuba. Their last engagement was with the Pubillones Circus. They go to Colorado Springs, and then East, and on April 27, will open at St. Paul, with Prescott's Big Hippodrome Circus, at the Auditorium, in that city.
Notes from the Great Cole Brothers Shows. Everything about the winter quarters at Harbor Creek, Pann., betokens activity and system. The methods that prevail with this show, regarding discipline, when on the road, predominate in winter quarters, and everything goes like clocklike precision. Since coming into quarters two large dens, and eight cross cages have been built, and four large wagons. Martin Downs engages only skilled laborers in his blacksmith and wagon shops, and that he is right in doing so is made evident in the results attained. Twelve head of ring stock and twenty-two head of baggage horses arrived this week, and are quartered with the superb stable of horses that have done so much to make the Cole Brothers Show popular. The paint shop is one of the busiest departments at present, and the work being turned out is a satisfactory indication of the splendor that will characterize this show when it goes on the road this coming season. Mrs. Sarah Edwards and twelve assistants are busy on the machines in the wardrobe room, getting ready an entirely new wardrobe for both street and entree. Blue will be the prevailing color in the street parade, and while in the entree. Trilby, the handsome lioness, is caring for four cubs, born a week ago. They are all strong and healthy, and will be a valued addition to the already extensive menagerie. Six new Shetland ponies have been added to the stable, and two pure white camels to the menagerie. Mr. Downs recently received five female and one male specimen of the elk family. They are all perfect specimens, and have been turned loose in a large park fenced in especially for them. Mr. Downs, realizing that this valuable animal is rapidly becoming extinct, has determined to prevent their entire extinction as much as possible. He has established a park for them in which they may roam unmolested, and multiply. Among the recent callers at winter quarters was manager Tom Johnson, of Cleveland, who spent an afternoon in the animal house and stable, and declared it to be a most pleasant outing. . . . Last week Mr. Downs was in Manhattan as the guest of W. W. Power, of the New York Hippodrome. General agent Eddie Knupp says that the advance of the show is now fully organized, and will be made up of seventy men, and not one student in the bunch. They are all "troupers." All orders for paper have been placed, and every order under way. Mr. Knupp, even at this early date, has three scouts out, overlooking territory and making preliminary arrangements. Both of the advance cars will be new this season, and six new cars have been added to the show train. One of the pleasing features with the dwelling houses of the workingmen is the addition of a large reading and smoking room. All the leading daily and weekly papers are kept on file, and that the innovation is appreciated is made evident by the fact that the room is filled with the men every morning. By the first of April, the superintendents of the various departments claim they will be able to turn the show over to Mr. Downs, ready for the road.
Rays from Sun Bros.' Macon winter quarters. While it is possible that other tented shows may have unusually attractive buildings and commodious facilities to winter their stock, people, animals and accoutrement, there cas be no doubt or question, after a careful looking over, that the Sun Bros. winter quarters, at Central City Park, Macon, Ga., are the best constructed of these all, in every particular. The plant contains all substantial brick buildings, fine artesian wells, and every modern convenience that money can procure. Some eighty men are constantly employed here, and the work that is being turned out daily speaks volumes for their capability. Only the very best machinists, blacksmiths, wood workers, canvas makers, decorators, car builders and general mechanics are in evidence in the six shop departments. The living accommodations accorded the people at this winter home are of the luxurious kind. Ten two story brick cottages are used by the men for the sleeping quarters. Each one of these cosy buildings contains a bath room, hot and cold running water, electric lights, and other latter day ideas. The culinary department is in a separate building, and is a marvel of neatness and excellent system. It is presided over by a coterie of A1 chefs and food dispensors. A complete dairy and vegetable farm is connected with the place, which enables the show to furnish its own fresh vegetables, eggs, milk and butter. To quote the language of a Macon daily newspaper, in a recent issue, "It is a veritable haven of rest and paradise for the circus trooper." Walter Ashborn, the distinguished English animal breaker, has arrived here, and is now engaged in preparing his pupils for the several new feature acts that he will offer in the programme this season. Mr. Ashborn has a novelty in the shape of a somersault lion, and it is a complete success. William O'Dale, equestrian director, is now on the scene, and presiding over the destinies of the "practicing" or "ring" barn. Mr. O'Dale is engaged in perfecting numerous new riding and equestric numbers, which will be sure to create a genuine furore when offered to the public. D. Gillespie is the new annex manager, and will have a brand new outfit. Mr. Gillespie is enthusiastically preparing for the coming season. "Genial Dave" modestly styles his department as "The big supplementary shows, fashionable vaudeville adjunct and international freak bazaar." Without boasting, he declares that he will have the "grandest and best" on the road, and then some. The opening date occurs during the latter part of March, and the show will all be completed and ready for the premiere performance. The personnel of performers engaged, will be a notable one, and includes a long line of illustrious gymnastic, acrobatic, equestrian, vaudeville and general circus specialists, all regarded as the best among the good ones. John Sun will offer as a novelty in the "big show," a trained animal "thriller." It is called "Defio," "Double Somersaulting the Gap," or "The Limit Ended." "Defio," is a chimpanzee, and it is claimed that he is the largest of his species every imported to this country. It must not be inferred that this act is a toy or miniature device. The height of the apparatus is 40 feet and a genuine motor car is used in the production. "Defio" executes this, the incredible feat of "double somersaulting the gap" while seated in the motor car. It is a great act, and all who have witnessed it here, pronounce it great. Mr. Sun has patented and copyrighted his act and holds contracts with several Metropolitan and European agents for vaudeville appearances at the close of the road tour next January. The members of the La Pasque Troupe and Linsley Trio are now here prepatory to the opening, and incidentally "limbering" up a little each day. The animals in the zoo department, and the horses and ponies in the stables, have had a pleasant winter sojourn, and all are in prime condition for the road. . . .
The Cancie Bros.' R. R. Shows have closed contracts with the Metropolitan Electric Lighting Co. of New York, for a complete miniature electric plant of the new Olenin flaming arc system, consisting of twenty-five thousand candle power lamps. It will be introduced for the first time in the circus world by this organization. The Six Tossing Lavaliees and the two Werntzs, double trapeze artists, are among the latest of engagements with this show.
The receiver appointed for Cummins' Wild West was discharged Feb. 22, by mutual agreement among the parties interested.
Barnum & Bailey notes. . . . Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth will leave the winter quarters at Bridgeport on Thursday of this week. It is anticipated that the entire show will be installed in the Garden by Saturday night. Performers are arriving in New York daily by boat and train, and all have been called to report at the Garden March 18. At that time rehearsals will be immediately commenced, to the end that the first performance to be given on Thursday afternoon, March 21, will have the desired finish. The exact length of the engagement at the Garden has not been announced, but it will continue for several weeks. The first preliminary announcement made by the management is of more than passing interest because of a statement of policy that has been pursued in arranging the circus programme for the coming season. First principles have been resorted to to the extent that the show of the present year has been organized along the lines of the circuses that our fathers knew. There has been less straining for spectaculer effect, and greater attention given to the legitimate and bona fide circus acts. "Thrillers" have not been entirely eliminated from the programme, but those to be presented will not appeal to the public ___ of any chance of death stalking in their wake, but rather because of their originality and cleverness. The new "big act" for the season will be presented by Captain ___, the world renowned ski jumper, on eight foot skis he will descend a steep incline that has an abrupt terminatoin in the air. The momentum gained in his rapid descent will carry him across a chasm sixty feet in width. It is anticipated that this original performance will create a considerable amount of enthusiasm. "The Dip of Death," the big thriller of last season, is retained. An important feature, never seen before in America, will be the ___, a company of expert acrobats, who introduce trained animals in conjunction with their gymnastic performances. The roster of aerialists, riders, clowns, etc., is very complete.
New York Clipper, March 30, 1907, p. 167. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Norris & Rowe Circus opens its season at Santa Cruz, Cal., Saturday, March 30. Continued March storms have delayed the opening for two weeks. The list of riders contains the names of: George Holland, Rose Dockrill, Edward V. Hocum, Maude Hocum, Edna Maretta, Frank and Dollie Miller, Herbert Rumley, Frank O'Brien and Harry Dutton. New acts with the show are: Newskyoff Troupe of Russian singers, dancers and acrobats; the Leffel Trio, aerial bars; the Banvard Troupe, in a casting and flying return act; the Silbon Sisters, double trapeze; the Avallon McDonald Troupe of bicyclists; Irene Maretta, swinging ladder; Ben Lucier, the Montrose-Keno Troupe of acrobats; Hugh and Howard Melnotte, high wire; the Odessa Troupe, aerial horizontal bars; Mlle. Celeste and the Sisters Hawthorne, contortion act; Ethel Reno, revolving trap and the Brothers Rexos, on the unsupported ladder. C. I. Norris will have a new animal act, and George Settler will work the elephants in two rings, also exhibiting his two troupes of dogs. Mlle. Rita will appear in the cages of mixed animal groups. Walter Shannon has a much enlarged side show, including a colored band of twenty-two pieces. Mr. Shannon will also have all the privileges, with William Bradford as his chief assistant, a position he has held for many years. The show will have all new canvas. The cars have been painted white and lettered in red and black, and the train will consist of twenty-four cars and three advance cars.
California is gaining considerable reputation among tent show men for its superior advantages as a wintering place. Among the shows wintering in California now are: the Sells-Floto, which is located at Venice; the Norris & Rowe, which is located at Santa Cruz, and the C. T. Burch Circus, which is located in Sacramento.
Col. E. M. Burk, one of the best known circus men in America, is the general manager of the Great C. T. Burch Circus. Mr. Burk has engaged J. H. R. Fitzpatrick, formerly associated with the Norris & Rowe Shows, as his general agent.
With three circuses opening early in California this Spring, there will be an opportunity of witnessing a war between bill posters and agents. It is generally conceded that every foot of territory will be contested between the Norris & Rowe Shows, the Sells-Floto Shows, and the Great C. T. Burch Shows.
Notes from the Hippodrome Shows. The georgeously mirrored dining and sleeping and baggage cars and the glass wagons of the Hippodrome Shows this season will offer a striking resemblance to the old W. C. Coup Show of 1881. The Hippodrome Show opens at Fredonia, Kan., May 2.
Notes from Cancie Bros.' Union Shows. Jim Payne has signed with this show, to do his sharp shooting act in the big show. He will also have charge of the concert. Wm. Yager has been engaged to do his wire act, and act as clown, also high stilt clowning. The Young Bros., Jake and Brig, will be a special feature in their Chinese comedy acrobatic act, and Jake Young will be the principal double somersault leaper.
"Punch" Wheeler has concluded his regular winter season with Lew Dockstader, and left New Orleans March 17, to join the Sells-Floto Shows in California, for his third sawdust season with this circus, where he will be in charge of the literary bureau as usual.
Tarlton and Tarlton report meeting with big success in presenting their comedy musical act. They recently finished five weeks with the Vic. Hugo Shows at Cedar Rapids, Ia., and Jake Rosenthal's at Dubuque. They are in their second week with the Sigfried Bijou Show in Illinois. They will open with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows in April, it being their second season with the Wallace shows.
Notes from the Fashion Plate Shows. The Four Nichols, high wire performers, will be with these shows the coming season, opening at Geneva, O., April 28. James W. Beattie will manage the side show and concert, and W. Morgan will be his assistant superintendent. Mr. Morgan is now at Geneva, framing up the annex.
Notes from the Great Aiton & Anderson Show. We open the season about May __. Anderson & Aiton have spent a large sum of money in building the show up for the coming season, and they say that they will have the best twelve car show on the road.
Burt and Frieda Burtino, slack wire performers, have returned from Cuba, after a successful six month's engagement with the Pubillones Circus.
New York Clipper, April 6, 1907, p. 186. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from E. G. Smith's Colossal Shows and Trained Animal Exposition. The ring barn is a scene of activity daily, at the winter home of the "Little Giant." The various animal acts are doing their stunts daily, and the pony contingent has been strengthened by Dan, the Shetland clown, and his cute tricks are a credit to his trainer. It can truthfully be said that this show carries the finest and best trained troupe of Shetlands among the smaller tented shows, and for beauty and intelligence far exceed those carried by some of the more pretentious organizations. The draught stock is being carefully conditioned by Dan Lambert and his assistant. Under Dan's careful eye the stock will not suffer, as he has proved this by his worth in past seasons. The entire outfit is practically new. All new tents will go up for the first time on our opening day, and everything will look bright as a pin. Our parade will be one big dazzling string of red, white and gold wagons; flages, banners, plumes, and elegant trappings on both man and beast. The entire parade paraphernalia is brand new, and the cost of the pageant furnishings amount to more than the cost of the entire equipment of this organizaation four years ago, so it can readily be seen that this show is being rapidly pushed to the front among the wagon shows of today. Our opening will occur, as usual, at Lambertsville, Pa., Saturday, April 20. Following is the roster of department heads: E. G. Smith, sole owner and general manager; J. J. Ray Dee, business manager; Keller Iseminger, general agent; Mrs. E. G. Smith, treasurer; Delbert O. Penn, leader of band; Charles Dickey, equestrian director; Owen Russel, charge of canvas; Dan Lambert, charge of draught stock; Wm. Dickey, charge of ring stock; Joe Hulsizer, boss property man; W. J. Gridley, charge cook tents and privileges.
S. H. Semon has signed again for this season with the Buffalo Bill Show, as contracting agent.
Rippel Show notes. We just closed the season of eleven months, and expect to open again on May 4, at Frankfort, Ind. Following people have been engaged: Scott Ruth, traps and clown; the Clawsons, trick bicycle riders; Terry Moore, with trick mule; Charley Rippel, contortionist and rings; Alice Rippel, slack wire; Dr. Leslie, leader of band; Oscar Castle, boss hostler; Al. Wiete, boss canvasman; Phillips and McCaulley, perch traps, hand balancer; Will Scott, with troupe of dogs; Kid Shaw, in charge; Geo. Bronlee, Mamie Hogemeier, in charge cook house; George Crawford, advance agent. We will use our own light plant, invented by Mr. Rippel, and used for two seasons with big success.
Notes from Cancie Bros.' Union Shows. . . . Some of our side show features will be: King Cole Hall, who dines on needles, and does a modern magic act; Cameron and her dens of snapping serpents; the Great Gavin, physical culture displays and chain breaking expansionist; also Margie, the transparent girl, and other features are pending. The big show is about complete, though negotiations are now in progress for Las Troupe Zaritski, eight male and female acrobats, who do an eight high pyramid incline fall, the highest ever attempted. To accomplish this feat necessitates an opening arrangement in the big top, as prior to the drop, the seventh and eighth top mounter are not visible to the audience, being above the height of the canvas. Two big concert bands will be carried, and inspiring music will be a feature. We have signed the National Alliance of Billposters and Billers Agreement and have a thoroughly experienced and altogether complete advance department, with Frank E. Tracy as general agent.
Sun Brothers World's Progressive Show notes. We will open our season on Wednesday, April 3, at Macon, Ga. The performances will be given under the auspices of the Macon Police Relief Association. The show will give a performance on 3 and 4. The local policemen will participate in the performances and the opening street parade, which will only be given on this occasion. Several thousand tickets have already been sold in advance, and indications point to "bumper business."
Notes from Main's winter quarters, at Geneva, O. Everything lovely here. Weather fine, plenty of workmen, and the show will positively open on Saturday, April 28. The train will be painted white, and the baggage wagons, which are painted with the very best Cleveland red, will be varnished just like a parade tableaux. The seats, tents, lights, wardrobe and harness will all be brand new, and as the property was all new in 1906, this will be the newest show that we know of. Every effort is being put forth to fulfill the name of the Fashion Plate Shows.
Harry H. Hensel, of Lancaster, Pa., informs us that Mayor McCoskey, of that city, has signed a new ordinance which will permit circuses to show there, by paying a license of $25 per day. This had been the license fee up to 1905. In that year it was raised by the council to $100 per day (an ordinance which has now been repealed), and the old license fee of $25 is again in vogue.
Edw. E. White has signed his Dorian Drum and Fife Corps with the Great Fashion Plate Shows for the coming season.
Frank and Edith Raymond, aerial cyclists, left New York City for the City of Mexico, March 26, where they begin a season of thirty weeks, with the Gran Circo Bell.
Herbert, the "Frogman," left Chicago for California, to join the Sells-Floto Shows, for his second season with that organization.
New York Clipper, April 13, 1907, pp. 213, 222. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Clemings and McAlister have signed for the season with the Sells-Floto Shows, making their third season with that show. After enjoying a two weeks' vacation at Venice, Cal., they joined the show, which opened April 3, at Santa Monica, Cal.
Mrs. J. B. Wright, of Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Wright, writes: "After recovering from a very severe attack of pneumonia, I joined the Jones' Shows at Birmingham, Ala. While there a special meeting of the T. M. A., No. 16, was called on Sunday, March 17, and Mr. Wright was made a member of the order."
Sam Cohen, of Lynn, Mass. (expansionist), will soon join the Frank A. Robbins Show, doing his act in the side show and superintend the refreshment stands in the big top.
William Forquer will have charge of the stock with the Great Fashion Plate Shows, and is now at winter quarters. The Famous Nichols Family have signed contracts with the Great Fashion Plate Shows for the coming season.
Kurt ___, representative of Circo Bell, Mexico, sailed for Mexico March 28. He has engaged the following acts: Mme. Schell's lions, Lucifer Trio, Diericks Bros., the Lovetta, Truman, Aldo and Vannessen, Hugo Burton's dogs, Gallagher, Raymond, Cogswell, Rizar and Fatima, and the Maginleys. The show opened March 31, in Mexico City.
Dr. E. H. De Alva writes: "I was burned out at my home, Medford, Ontario, Can., March 4. Fire broke out in a restaurant, next door, and it soon reached my house. Myself and family just escaped with out lives, losing all our clothes. My wife lost all her diamonds and other jewelry. All my contracts were lost in the fire, beside a lot of my circus stuff, that was stored at the back of the house. We lost about $6,000, and only had $1,000 insurance, but we will get everything new, and it will not affect any of my attractions."
Luciano Tatali, writing from Sonsonati, Republic of San Salvador, under date of Feb. 21, says: "The Tatali Show left New Orleans on Dec. 30, 1906, for Costa Rico, C. A. Our first opening was in Teatro, ___, San Jose, capital of Cost Rica, and we played to bigger business than any show that ever played in San Jose. The show was such a success that we received a visit from the president of the republic several times. We played a number of other towns, and did good business everywhere in the republic. We are now in the Republic of San Salvador, and gave our first show last night, to capacity business, turning people away. The company includes the following people: the Lucania Trio, acrobatic, equilibristic and contortion act; Little Eva, and her wonderful trained birds; Isabella Garcia wire performer; Maremba Band, three in number, a great novelty; Kukito and Pepo, eccentric Spanish comedians; Rits, "the human fly"; Humberto, equilibrist; Luisa Moreno, monologist; El Gran Martinez, magician, and Mr. Duprey, with Edison's latest picture machine, presenting all the latest and up-to-date films. Luciano Tatali, proprietor and manager. After we play the Republic of San Salvador we go to Republic of Guatemala, with Panama and Guayaquil to follow."
Cortland R. Harris has been engaged as assistant contracting agent of the John Robinson Ten Big Shows, for season of 1907.
Prof. Perrino, animal trainer, writes: "Shall join the Hunt's Silver Plate Show this season, with a lion and dog living in cage together. Will also have my talking dog, Spot, in the side show, and a big animal act, with lions and giant St. Bernard dogs, being the first St. Barnards to ever work with lions."
Frank J. Hurley, novelty musical act, has been re-engaged for this season with the Frank A. Robbins All Feature Shows, to perform in both side show and concert. This will be Mr. Hurley's third season with the show.
Notes from Cole Bros.' World Toured Shows. We will inaugurate the 1907 tenting season in Butler, Pa., Saturday, April 20. With that veteran, Harry Curtis, in charge, the first advertising car departed from winter quarters April 2, and the force of thirty men is billing the Southwestern part of the State these days, in true circus style. The second opposition brigade of ten men, under "Bob" Simons, left the same day for Pittsburg. Tuesday of this week the second car, carrying twenty-four men, in charge of Fred Bates, took the rails. This year Cole Bros.' Shows will be as bright and sparkling as a newly coined twenty-dollar gold piece. The advertising cars, as well as the two trains of double length stocks, flats, Pullman sleepers, and Manager Downs' private coach, have come from the shops gaily decorated in coats of new paint and varnish. All the rolling stock back with the show presents a unusually attractive appearance, and reflects great credit upon designers, builders and decorators. The two hundred and forty-three draught horses wintered well, and go forth for their season's work as fat and sleek as the most particular showman could well wish them to be. The fourteen large and small tents are all new, and when the Cole Shows go on the lot at Butler, they will properly be termed the city of white canvas. Owing to the large additions made to each department during the past winter, these shows will tour the country with two trains, and those persons in a position to know claim that a better organized and better equipped amusement institution never was know. Several high class features and genuine novelties have been booked, and wherever the Cole Bros.' Shows may go, they are sure of a cordial and substantial welcome.
Notes from the Van Amburg Show. We began our season at Houston, Tex., on April 4. The show is much larger than last season. We have a train of eighteen cars and two cars in advance. Of the animals there are six elephants, ten camels, six lions, ___ tigers, and a quantity of other animals, also two baby camels, two weeks old; three baby lions, two baby elephants (one still nursing), and we have recently purchased one of the largest gorillas that has ever been exhibited. He is five and one-half feet tall and weight one hundred and fifty pounds. The management places great value on this animal, as he is a great feature, and has had the animal insured for five hundred dollars. Everything is brand new with the show, and we gave entire satisfaction here.
C. V. Lee has sold his interest in Lee's Vaudeville Circus, and will return again to the side show business, after a retirement of nine years. Mr. Lee has joined the Great Fashion Plate Shows to lecture, do magic and marionettes. The marionette front and frame up, he informs us, will be one of the finest ever put up under canvas.
Robert O. Meers, famous showman, has retired from active participation in circus life, and has bought the Pierce Farm of forty acres, at Bailey Corners, in Podunk, near Spencer, Mass. His two daughters, Laura and Johanna, who also announce that they have given up the show business, are with him.
Mrs. Lovina Lindsley Cole, wife of Geo. S. Cole, of John Robinson's Show, after being ill more than a year, died at her home, __ Market Street, Potsdam, N.Y., on April 2.
C. J. Sassaria, late of the Sells-Floto Shows, writes of an experience he had in Pittsburg, Pa., on March 14. Mr. Sassaria, according to a newspaper clipping, was attacked, beaten and robbed by four highway men, as he was on his way to his home on that date, and he drew his revolver and fired into the crowd. One of the alleged highway men was struck in the stomach by the fling bullet, and is now in a hospital in that city. Mr. Sassaria also states that two of the highwaymen are held on the charge of robbery, and that he has been exonerated for shooting the man who is in the hospital.
An unsigned communication, from Parsons, Kan., states: "Ed. Jones, representing Foley, met with a painful accident at Parsons. He was on the bill wagon, assisting the bill poster, when the horse became unmanageable and Mr. Jones was thrown off the wagon on a brick pavement, which caused a fracture of one of his knees and a ___. He is confined to his bed at the Hotel Mecca."
New York Clipper, April 20, 1907, pp. 240, 241. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Van Amburg Show Opens. At Houston, Tex., on April 4, this popular show inaugurated its 1907 season, under most favorable auspices, the tent being crowded at the opening performance. Our correspondent states that a better showing is made by the Van Amburg Shows uner tent than on the street parade. The horses are beautiful and well trained, and the acts are varied - acrobats, balancers, trapeze people and the clowns doing their part in a manner that reflects credit upon the organization.
Prof. Wheeler's Marine Band played an attractive overture, and rendered very good music during the performance. As the strains struck up for the entry, Messrs. Conners, Johnson and Bell, and Misses Bell, Dooley and Ward rode in on beautiful horses in Roman fashion, and gave a fine exhibition of horsemanship. Kate Doolley, a female clown, sang a song.
Then come the slender athletes, and the funny clowns, in the great leaps from the springboard. This is a thing which always strikes straight home with the boys, and is, besides, an interesting feature for the older folk. The men leaped over two of the largest elephants in the show. Double somersaults were turned by Charles Bell, William Vandee, H. Doherty and William Henchey. A great deal of wonder and amusement was caused by the antics of Babe, the large mother elephant, and her young offspring, Garibaldi. William Denton, Mlle. Zenta and Rose Bender did some fine feats high in the air on trapeze and rings, and the ring was given over to the clowns, who played all kinds of tricks on each other.
Then came a feature which is the best in the show - the Yamagata Troupe of Japanese. They are very good in their acrobatic tricks. There are three little boys, almost midgets, fat-faced and smiling, who awake the intense admiration of the spectators. There is something decidedly quaint and interesting about them. The boys can double up in any kind of shape, and the men, calm and smiling, throw them about as if they were rubber balls.
O'Neil and Fielder, Chase and Henry, Williams and Conners have a lot of fun in mid-air with revolving ladders. O'Neil makes a backward dive from a ladder. Master Roy Jennier does some good tricks with a pony, J. Alton [Aiton?] and Mlle. La Two do some good work on the trapeze. George Jennier repeats the trick that always brings laughter and admiration. Coming out as a drunken man he undresses on his horse and appears in pink tights, the professional rider. Harry Mick, Zutka and M. Hatsu do some good juggling and hoop rolling.
A fine feature is the Roman ladder act of the Howards, three of them slender, graceful girls. William Van Dee works a device that keeps the audience roaring. He brings on his trained giraffe, Jargo, and makes this peculiar animal performe. Jargo does some marvelous tricks, but he finally falls to pieces and becomes two men. William Conners, Charles Johnson adn Emma Sifley are clever on the bounding wire. John Smith and Miss De Arval delight the audience with their trick horses, Rosedale and Penrein.
J. George does stunts on the swinging perch. Kate Dooley, on the same contraption, and Sophie Ward, on the swinging ladder, perform many difficult feats to hearty applause. The Anton-Bell Troupe are fine acrobats. William Henchey makes fun with his mule, Maude. The Jenniers and the O'Neils do good tricks on the flying trapeze. Another stunt for the children is given by Tuffy, the waltzing pony, and Jerry, the kicking donkey. Bimbo and Salambo perform on the Spanish rings, and the Yamagatas do the Risley act. These interesting circus features are concluded by Walter Jennier doing a riding act employing four beautiful white horses.
Fortunato Florenz, the founder of the Florenz Troupe of acrobats, was born Feb. 17, 1867, in Florence, Italy. The troupe, which is considered one of the best in the world, has played in almost every civilized country on the globe, and in no country is the marvelous work of the trope better known than it is in the United States. Through his manager, Richard Pitrot, Mr. Florenz has been booked for many engagements in this country, including several seasons with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, as well as a ten months' tour of Australia. At present the troupe is playing vaudeville dates in the leading theatres in America. Mr. Florenz is happily married. His wife is a member of the Florenz Troupe. They have three children, one of whom, a son, is studying the violin in London, under the leading masters there, and whom Pietro Mascagni has pronounced a musical wonder.
Notes from D'Alma's Famous Trained Animal Shows. As the time draws near the opening, which is April 26, the natives of Corona are sitting up and taking notice of the many improvements in the equipment over former seasons. All through the snowy days of winter there was no intermission and the work on improving the animal acts went on steadily. Many of the visiting friends of the show, who have called at the quarters, where they always "find the latch string outside," have marveled at the clock-line precision with which each performed his work. The show will be almost entirely new. The nine baggage wagons, built at Racine, have just arrived, and it is putting it mildly to say they are beauties. The canvas is all new, from front door to cook tent, and is on the ground ready to lift its lofty peaks skyward. Mr. D'Alma has succeeded in breaking little "Prince," the smallest poney in existence, to ride bareback and leap hurdles. Little "Perry," the monkey, will still continue his trip through the Devil's dip twice daily. Snyder's family of dogs will bow once more to the public, and "Jargo," the elephant, has learned that he is in no danger while shooting the shoots, on the outside of the canvas, before each performance. The Yoki Troupe of Imperial Japanese, equilibrists, has been signed for the season. The Livingston Family of acrobats will be featured with the big show, and the Biddle Brothers, physical culture creators and exponants, will have an entire new act for this season. The Daltons, with their mind reading Zebra, will work on the outside platform. Mr. D'Alma has just returned from the West, and with him comes a herd of twenty-two ponies that will be used to augment the parade. The parade is to be a great feature this season. It will contain one of the finest band wagons ever seen with a show of this character. Professor Saceketto's band has been selected and good music is assured. The cook wagon is receiving the finishing touches, and no doubt will be the most popular wagon with the show. It will be presided over by William Warden, whose name is synonymous with show folks "of lots of good things to eat." The roster is John D'Alma, proprietor and manager; George Walker, treasurer. The general advance will be looked after by Grant Luce, with Henry Alger, as assistant, and six bill posters. Roy Hoffman, trainer; Lewis Armstrong, master of transportation; Dick Curwin will look after the canvas; George Bortley, boss hostler; William Ellis, boss property man. Most all people engaged have served with the show during previous seasons, and all are unanimous in pronouncing it the finest that was ever put before the public. After making a few stands on Long Island, we will play a few select towns along the Hudson and then go West. All look forward to a pleasant and prosperous season.
Notes from winter quarters of Hunt's Silver Plate Shows. Things are on a move here getting the outfit ready for the opening, May 1, at Stockbridge, Mass. We have turned out a new ticket wagon, and all our wagons have sunburst wheels this season. The following people have been engaged to date: Harry Mirkley, general agent, with two assistants; Ira D. Ibbitson, leader of No. 1 band, with ten pieces; G. McElroy, leader of clown band, with six pieces; the De Wittzs, head balancing, slack wire, acrobats and slide for life; McCann and ___, singing, talking and pantomimic clowns, also with the concert; J. J. Brick, triple bars and rings; Leonzo, contortionist and hand balancer; Hunt's trained dogs and ponies, Chas. Hunt Jr., singing clown; Bertha Hunt, menage act; Gerard Twins, double traps, wire and sailor perch; the Lednars, magic, Punch and Judy, and second sight, for side show; and Prof. Pirreno's dog, lion and boar hound act. Our spread of canvas will be as follows: big top 80x120, combination side show and horse tent 50x80, dressing top 30 feet round top, cook house 18x30, and a 14x14 marquee. Ike Williams will have charge of canvas, with Charley Meade assistant boss, and twelve men; Dixie Eckert, with four grooms, are getting the thirty-one head of stock in shape for the opening. All our wagons have had a new coat of aluminum and red, and the parade wagons are finely carved and decorated. Mrs. J. and C. T. Hunt will control all privileges, and the owners, John and Charles T. Hunt are perfectly satisfied with everything so far, and look forward for even a more prosperous season than the last one was.
Cameron, female impersonator, has signed with the Cancie Bros.' Railroad Shows for the sideshow and concert. Major Little Finger and wife have also signed.
Notes from the Great Barlow Show. We opened at South Milford, April 27, with everything new and the show enlarged to three times its former size, and the finest wagons, horses, dogs and ponies that money can buy. Ed. P. Barlow is manager, Frank Decker, assistant; ___ Barlow, treasurer; Arthur Howe, director; Glen Hamilton, band leader; Andrew Neff, canvas boss; Tom Noggle, boss hostler; Ames Newman, assistant boss hostler; Theodore Bates, advance, with two assistants. Will tour Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania and New York. Tihs is the tenth season.
The Cycling Cogswells are being featured with the Bell Circus, in Mexico.
Lafferty, the "Frog Man," has signed for this season with Gollmar Bros.' Shows.
From Pawnee Bill's Historic Wild West and Great Far East. This attraction will open its season in Nashville, Tenn., on Wednesday, April 17. . . . Edward Arlington is the best known of a number of new-comers to the executive staff of the organization, assuming the position of general agent. "The Great Train Robbery" will be Pawnee Bill's crowning feature, it is a spectaculer drama conceived by Arthur ___, of the New York Hippodrome, and which made a sensationally successful inaugural in Luna Park, Coney Island, N.Y., last summer. Pawnee Bill secured the exclusive traveling rights from a dozen competitors. The production is probably the most ambitious undertaking ever assumed by a traveling show. Pawnee Bill will present it with all the elaborate detail and equipment of the original performance, including railroad, engine and cars, mining camp, streets, houses, gambling dens, saloons, forests and prairie, and in two distinct scenes. Other departments of the show will be more comprehensive than Pawnee Bill has ever before attempted. The breezy, turbulent West will be mingled with the mysterious, savageness and marvels of the remote East. The snake-charming and juggling exploits of the Hindus will be a conspicious feature, and of Arabs, Cossacks, Australians, African tribesmen, South Sea Islanders and other strange recruits there will be legion. May Lillie will give high school demonstrations; half a hundred cowboys and cowgirls are awaiting the call, and Indians will come from the wigwams of many reservations. Pawnee Bill, seconded by a host of rifle and revolver experts, will give exhibition of marksmanship. The Pawnee Bill Show has passed the winter in Cumberland Park, Nashville, Tenn. Its newly opened general headquarters are in the Knickerbocker Theatre Building, New York City. Its season's route may extend as far West as San Francisco.
C. L. Vincent write from Buffalo, N.Y., as follows: "Edward Guyon died at his mother's home in Foster, N.Y., March 30. He was a member of Local No. 24, Buffalo, of the National Alliance of Bill Posters and Billers of America. He has worked here for past winter seasons, and the boys received word of his death with regret, as he was a great favorite among his brothers. Edward Guyon was born in the town of Union, N.Y., Brown County, on Sept. 5, 1873, and had been in the show business since he was eighteen years old. He had worked for the late W. H. Gardner up to the time of the latter's death, then went with the Ringling Bros. until he was taken ill and unable to work, which was last November. He leaves a wife and one son (nine years old) and his mother.
Roster of advance car, No. 1, of Great Aiton & Anderson Shows: Chas. Turner, car manager; Chas. Comtamum, lithographer; Ed. Meyers, programmer; Billie Munn, Mike Bowen, Geo. Johnson, Homer Hall, Harry Van Tassell, Kid White, Adam Lang and Henry Yetter, billposters. The show opens at Glenrock, Pa., June 1.
Sun Brothers' Opening. The Sun Brothers' Circus opened its season in Macon, Ga., on Wednesday afternoon, April 3, giving a highly creditable performance - up-to-date and snappy. The organizatoin has been wintering in Macon, and starts out on the road in perfect rehabilitation, in keeping with the attractive and beautiful dress of the South's Springtime. The initial exhibiton was of high quality, and won the approval and applause of a large audience. There was not an indifferent feature on the ample programme, and it was especially pleasing to the spectators that the various parts were exploited in a single ring, with one act at a time, and performed by some of the best of the arenic, vaudeville, pantomimic and carnival world.
The performance consisted of twenty distinct displays. William O'Dale, equestrian director, a shining light of the circus, was seen in diversified specialties. He and Miss Dutton appeared in a beautiful double carrying act, classic poises and pictures upon the backs of two splendid horses. Mr. O'Dale's performance in display No. 15 was as thrilling as any equestrian exposition ever seen in Macon. It was an exciting act, and produced loud and prolonged cheering. His equestric finale was a hurricane event, with four fine thoroughbreds.
The La Pasque Troupe made a hit in their marvelous aerial exploits. This trio of reckless performers introduced feats never before witnessed under canvas in Macon. Their triple bar act was a novelty, and was unanimously pronounced a cracker jack. They consitute a daredevil coterie that give a thrilling midair divertisement. A great feature of the program was the graceful Groh Acrobatic Troupe. Their entire performance can rightly be termed "a regal scene of aerialistic novelties." The quintette departed from the beaten path, and furnished a wonderful exhibition, in which each of the five proved himself to be a master in his line.
Adele O'Dole was a favorite with the audience, and established a reputation by her work on the wire. Her performance was brilliant and high class. The accomplished horsewoman, Minnie Ashborne introduced a number of beautiful menage exploits and cakewalking exhibitions. Her equine, "Virginius," is a highly educated animal. One of the best displays represented an act of flexibility and sinuosity by the Three Grohs, who bend and twist their bodies into all conceivable shapes, giving a rare exhibition of physical culture. Unique and startling hand balancing feats by a European transportation, Wilfred and Lottie, captured the crowd. It was capital. The club juggling and tossing by the Five Lambertos was an unexampled exhibition of originality and artistic manipulation. They are entitled to high honors in this class of work.
As an elephant trainer, Walter Ashborne is a success. The elephantine performance given under his direction has never been excelled here. The exhibition by his Shetland and Iceland ponies was equally as good. The appearance of a juvenile prodigy, Master George Sun Jr., was a most interesting feature. His act consisted of sensational feats and gyrations upon the backs of two swiftly running ponies. The Zeemo Zeemo Troupe had been advertised to give an act that "resides on Quality Street," and no error was committed in the announcement. They are a trio of specialists in odd conceits upon the tight wire. A trained animal novelty was "De Flo," the "human chimpanzee," in his incredible feat of "double somersaulting the gap" in an automobile.
A very pleasing diversity of odd vaudeville specialties was presented by those performers of the first water, Geo. O'Dole, Stone and Hamp, and the Two Grohs. The clowns were happy in merry quips and absurdities. The clowns' carol, by Eddie Johnson, assisted by a coterie of comic choristers, furnished bushels of amusement.
Sun Brothers' Circus performed in Macon on April 3 and 4, giving afternoon and night entertainments for the benefit of the Macon Police Relief Association. The people of the city appreciated this generosity and consideration shows to their "finest," and turned out en masse at each performance.
New York Clipper, April 27, 1907, pp. 270, 276, 278. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Holder's Hoosier Circus opened the season at the Eagle Theatre, Wabash, Ind., March 29. The executive staff: Ed. S. Holder, proprietor; C. R. Summerland, business manager; W. H. Wright, general representataive. Band: E. M. Tolan, musical director; Oliver Gamble, L. E. Smith, L. L. Miller, Alonzo Hackleman, Carl Mosier, M. C. Reeker [Beeker?] and P. J. Cahill. Performers: Jimmie Howard and Chas. Bartyn, comedy sketch; a dog act, with six dogs and a goat; Lord Golden, menage act, with high jumping horses; Woodson and Helen, leaping greyhounds, riding dogs, troupe of trained hogs, Maud, the "kicker"; bovine soldiers, eight head of performing cattle, in a drill; Diavolo, the dog who loops the loop. The show carries six grooms and four property men.
Gerald Fitzgerald has finished his season ahead of the Shubert attractions, and has signed as press representative of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows.
Harry C. Fitzgerald closed his season with Liebler & Co., and is contracting agent ahead of the Great Cole Bros. Shows.
Edward Gavin, exponent of physical culture, has signed contracts with the Great Fashion Plate Shows, to do his act in the side show, this making his second season with Walter L. Main.
Bob Cook joined Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows, to do a black face concert turn, also act as ticket seller. The show opened April 3, at Macon, Ga.
The Le Vards (Wm. and Beatrice) have signed with the Great Fashion Plate Shows. Wm. La Vard will have charge of the colored band and minstrel people, eighteen in number.
The Campbell Bros.' Shows open season at Fairbury, Neb., April 27, and will have thirty cars, newly painted, and much other material to astonish the natives.
Notes from Cancie Bros.' Union Shows. Everything is in readiness for the opening of the "Pride of New England" shows, initiating the premier of Cancie Bros.' trade mark. Seldom, if ever, has a show of this calibre been in complete readiness for action as early, or as far in advance of opening date (May 1), as in this case. The entire working department is at present on the retired list, awaiting "moving day." Frank E. Tracy, our general agent, is now ahead, contracting the towns, and special agent John Garvey, with his brigade of twelve, left on their "action tour" Tuesday, April 16. The show will be what may be described as "the advanced one ring show of modern times." There will be eight cars required to transport the show, instead of five, as was at first calculated.
Hi Tom Long joined Cole Bros.' Shows, April 15, for the season, as a singing and talking clown and concert manager.
Following is the roster of the opposition brigade of the Cole Bros.' Show: Bob Simons, manager; Kid Mills, F. McCormick, A. Markey, c. Stiles, G. Miller, J. Sullivan, O. Robinson, F. Robertson, M. Montgomery and B. Burns.
Ed. H. Bell and his son, Harry, have left for Oxford, Pa., to join the Al. F. Wheeler Show.
Pawnee Bill Opens His Season. The Pawnee Bill Wild West and Far East opened the season in Nashville, Tenn., April 17, 18, with four performances, to capacity business. . . . The grand entree and general introduction, presenting wonderful riders and important personages from all parts of the world, was a splendid array of gorgeous costumes and a show of mounted military manoeuvres. Major Lillie (Pawnee Bill), about whom the gay cavalcade was formed, was greeted with hearty applause.
The first scene was an act by a tribe of Mohave Indians, introducing the Mohave method of cremating their dead. The "Pony Express," an exact reproduction of methods of carrying important mail before the advent of the railroads in the West, showing how changes were made at relay stations, was an interesting and instructing feature. Senor Jose Barrao, of Old Mexico; Dave Wristen, of Oklahoma; White Buffalo, a Sioux, and Master Jimmie Garritt, the phenomenal cowboy lasso expert, gave a praiseworthy exhibition of fancy and expert lassoing. The great Deadwood stage coach robbery was realistically portrayed, and the rescue by a band of cowboys, led by Pawnee Bill, after a desperate battle, was thrilling in the extreme.
A round-up of genuine cowboys from the cattle domains of the Western plains, in their sports and pastimes, presented by Gillman Bros., Wm. Lambert, Clyde Miller, Roy Gregory and Wayne Beasley, was a pleasing act. Pawnee Bill scored a hit with his fancy shooting. Although he has not done the shooting act for a number of years, it was said by those who remembered his work in former years that he showed up in old time form. ___ Abdailah Mameluke's tribe of Arabian acrobats from Morocco, scored a decided success in their whirlwind tumbling act. A detachment of United States Cavalry, under the direction of Sergt. Jack ___, gave an unusual exhibition of American horsemanship, giving the "monkey drill." Chas. Bennett, the world's champion marksman, did honor to his title, and gave a marvelous exhibition of fancy shooting with revolver and rifle. Tim Buckley's troupe of East Indian elephants did a series of new and different tricks.
One of the most thrilling scenes of the first part of the show was the hanging of an outlaw, who had stolen a horse, showing how justice was dealt out in the early days on the frontier. The ___ Mountain Meadow Massacre was reproduced in a most realistic manner. The Mexican contra dance on horseback, led by Pawnee Bill and May Lillie, was well received. The grand military tournament, introducing the cavalry tactics of the great nations of the world, was an exhibition worthy of special mention. The grand conclave was composed of English Dragoons, German Hussars, French Cavalrymen, American Indians, Arabian Horsemen, Japanese Cavalry, Cross followers, and United States Cavalry.
The Karakeb stick dance, a confusing tangle of dexterity, agility and rapid evolustions, by Hawwa's famous Singhalese troupe of performers from the "Divine Island," of Ceylon, was something new. There was also a troupe of native Africans, headed by Chief ___, and a troupe of South American Gouchos, in an exhibiton of throwing the bolos. Then came an exhibition of riding bucking bronchos by Wayne Beasley, Clyde Miller, the Gilman Brothers, Roy Gregory, Charles Aldrich, H. Witchway (a Pottawattamie Indian), P. A. Kinney and Bertha Kalpernick, a remarkable female bucking horse rider. Prince ___'s marvelous Imperial Cossack cavalry did honor to their reputation of being the most dexterous and daring riders of the world. The various games and races indulged in by cowboys and Indians on the plains were reproduced and the daring work of the participants drew forth much admiration and applause.
"The Great Train Robbery," the crowning feature of the show this season, is sensational. In picture and pantomime the story of the train robbery is told so vividly and with such realism that one feels as if he were transported in the wild region represented and an actual observer of the thrilling, sensational drama of a real railroad hold-up. The scenes include a typical mining camp town, the mountainous locality of the hold-up, and the running fight over the hills between the sheriff's posse and the bandits, supposed to be led by Jim Dalton. It is a strong feature and a fitting climax to this excellent show.
The show wintered in Nashville and the managers have signed contracts with the Fair Association to winter here for the next five seasons. . . .
The Adam Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus inaugurated its tented season at Columbus, O., April 20, to capacity audiences, with fairly good weather. The show has been greatly enlarged, and many European acts of daring and skill have been added. The parade was the largest and most magnificent ever given. There were more open cages of wild and rare animals, with which the show has been greatly augmented, and the regalia worn by the riders was the most gorgeous seen here on parade. The circus opened by a concert by the superb military band, under the leadership of John H. Gill. The great fire drama, "Fighting the Flames," proved a fine spectacle, in which a fill batallion of modern equipped fire fighters showd the system of fighting a fire.
Among the special features were: A great exhibition of living statuary, by the Stirk Family; the marvelous trained troupe of elephants, directed by John Patterson, in new and different evolutions; Emma Cornelia's aerial perch performance, in which many new features were added; Frederick ___, balancing act; Sig. Spessardy's troupe of trained bears, in new animal features; Madame Lancaster, with her matchless trained high school thoroughbred; the Goitz Trio, in an acrobatic act on rolling globes; Oscar Lowanda, in a difficult bareback act, with two horses; the Four Navarres, in wire act; Miss St. Leon, hurdle jumping and equestrienne act, and many others. The clown contingent has been greatly enlarged, and all proved themselves masters in the act of entertainment, with many new and difficult features added.
The side show has been enlarged and many new features added, prominent among which are: Jimes Daugherty, strong man; Amah, Hindoo magician; Madame Spessardy, snake charmer; Hillard, the magician; Mayme Mastiff, bag puncher; Al. Mastiff, Punch and Judy and lecturer; Louis Mollane, giant; Capt. Jack Barnett, midget, and Dunmore and Hiner's Colored Minstrel Troupe. The the menagerie has been added many new and rare species of animals, making it one of the largest zoos in America. Among the visitors were many of the most prominent showmen in America.
The programme included: Display No. 1 - "Fighting the Flames. Display No. 2 - Three herds of performing elephants, directed by William Duncan, John Patterson and Art Johnson. Display No. 3, skillful mid-air acts - the Wilsons, Miss Jenneto, the Avalons, the Le Van Troupe, Ardell and Shriver, Corella Trio, the Two Kelleys, the Fisher Bros. and Emma Cornalla. Display No. 4, examples of women equestrianism - May Davenport, Rebecca Daniels and Julia Shipp. Display No. 5, acts of acrobatic skill and endurance - the Four Langlows, A. G. Lowanda, Frederick Zobedie, the Four Alverts, the Nevarros, the Four Johnsons. Display No. 6, Capt. Webb's seals and sea lions (two troupes), Sig. Spessardy's trained bears. Display No. 7, exhibitions in the saddle by Al. Dean, Madame Lancaster and Mrs. H. Hill. Display No. 8 - globe balancing and juggling acts, by Wm. Harding, Ida De Van, Les Jundes, the Goitz Trio, Four Arizonas, Miss Lowanda, the Yerkzes and A. Gaerther. Display No. 9, bareback riding - A. Wallett, Oscar Lowanda and Orrin Davenport. Display No. 10, wonderful wire acts by the St. Leons, Nettie Carroll, Four Navarres, Mamie Klein and Adair and Doan. Display No. 11, equestrian acts - Miss St. Leon, A. G. Lowande and Gus ___. Display No. 12, bicycle, contortion, hand balancing and ladder acts - Alberto, ___, Joseph Le Fleur, Fred Welcome, Alex. ___, the Stirk Family, the Arizona Troupe. Display No. 13, jockey riding acts - ___ and May Davenport, Orrin and Victoria Davenport, Oscar Lowanda and Miss ___. Display No. 14, acrobatic acts - the St. Leons, the Eight Cornallas, Ardell and Shriever, the Yerkses, the Eight Dollars, Las Jundes, ___. Display No. 15, the Clown Syndicate. Display No. 16, spectacular aerial acts - the La Van Troupe, the Stirk Family, Minnie Forepaugh, Will Adair and the Flying Fishers. . . .
Lottie Jewell, well known as an equestrienne, died on April 10, at St. Louis, Mo., after an illness of two years. Miss Jewell was a clever race and high jump rider, and first came into prominence three years ago, when she joined Barney H. Damerest's New York Equestrienne Combination. Last Spring she began the season with the Carl Hagenbeck Circus, and was featured in the cart act, with Rhoda Royal's white charger, Chesterfield. In July her health failed, and she was obliged to give up work. The body was sent to New York City, where it was interred.
Col. John Murray, who was with Sells Bros.' Show, as ticket seller, for about twenty-five years, died at Columbus, O., on April 13. The remains were interred there, April 16.
Henry Thorpe, for a number of years treasurer of Sells Bros. Show, died on April 18, at Columbus, O.
New York Clipper, May 4, 1907, p. 307. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
John Robinson Ten Shows - the climax of three generations of circus men - opened the tented season of 1907 at the new Cincinnati park grounds, on Reading Road, April 23. Despite a rain storm, the canvas city was peopled with a magnificent multitude of pleased people. After three days on this lot, the circus moved out to Cumminsville for a two days' stand. Business was tremendous, and on several occasions enough people were turned away to fill another tent. It was Cincinnati's greatest tribute to the Queen City "home grown" show founded by "Uncle John Robinson," and now offered with Governor John F. Robinson as sole owner; John G. Robinson, manager, and Gil Robinson, New York and foreign representative. Eighty-seven years of circus experience are crowded into the Robinson Show, and all the magic of the spangles and sawdust rings are to be found beneath the great canvased canopies. The parade on the morning before the opening was the largest and most pretentious ever made by Robinson's and several of the unique features brought out applause from the onlookers. Under the great tent are three rings and two stages, while the troupe of clowns is scattered over the hippodrome track as thick as mosquitoes in a Jersey swamp. Frederick H. Fisher is the equestrian director, and Antonio Oliveto is director of the military band.
The circus began with a spectacular tournament, in which the great menagerie, with its new cages, many of novel shape and design, was drawn upon. Elephants, camels, U. S. cavalrymen, cowboys, cowgirls and Indians trooped behind the performance. This introductory feature closed with a ballet, in which fifty gorgeously costumed dancers took part. Nearly one hundred acts are crowded with dazzling brilliancy in the series of fifteen displays that make up the programme. In the finale is introduced a troupe of United States cavalry rough riders, under Captain James French; exhibitions of riding, a monkey drill, Indian scenes from a Sioux camp, with Wild West incidents put on by T. F. King, who concludes with "Trapper Tom's Cabin," and a stirring battle between soldiers, cowboys and Indians.
The Minerva Sisters, flying ladies, created a tremendous sensation with a novel European aerial act, absolutely new, in which they are flung through the air clinging by their teeth alone. Another thrilling act was the leap into a forest of horns of Texas steers.
On the roster of riders were: George Holland and his family, Holland and Holloway, Kate Holloway, James Dutton, Effie Dutton, Winnie Van, Kate Leipnik, Gordon Orion, Stelle Coyle, Tom Bisping, Irene French, Adddie Leipnik, Geneva Davis, Richard Farmer and Al. Johnson. The triple carrying cast act, by Effie Dutton, Winnie Van and James Dutton was one of the tremendous hits of the bill.
Carl Nygaard's liberty horses, G. M. Burke's ponies and dogs, Dick Jones' performing elephants, George ___ and his clown elephant, "Tom," and Fannie Burchell and her elephant, "___," and two ponies were seen in trained animal feats. A complete roster of acrobatic and novelty acts follows: bounding rope, Barrie and Hicks; juggling, James Fitzgerald; slack wire, Miss Reno; double rolling globe, Schroder Sisters; slack wire, Miss ___; tight wire, Toki Murati; double slack wire, Lenolo and Lenolo; carrying perch act, De Rolles Brothers; double slack wire act, W. Linderman and White; juggling, M. De Armour; swinging ladder, Stella Coyle; suspended globe, Marvelous Melville; balancing trapeze, Fred Rouen; aerial bars, Ellet Troupe; swinging ladder, Kate Leipnik; bounding somersault wire act, James Dutton; cloud swing, Gordon Orion; balancing trapeze, Mons. Lenolo; Roman ladders, Sister Lamison; trick ring act; Two Nelsons; Spanish rings, Lenolos; Roman rings, Two Laudermans; muscular developement display, August Legert; Spanish rings, Romain and Campbell; Roman ladders, the French Sisters; Roman rings, Two Stearling Brothers; unsupported ladder act, Art Forbes; foot juggling, Toki Murata; boxing act, Frank Sisters; contortion act, Pete Nelson; hand balancing act, Two La ___; dancing barrel, Joe ___; combination casting act, Two De Armours; novelty stage act, Romain and Campbell; acrobatic act, Arthur Forbes and Master Johnny Forbes; comedy acrobats, Two Brock Brothers; acrobats, Two Stearling Brothers; marvelous acrobatic family, Six Tossing Lanelles; original act, Joe Avolette and Son; acrobats, Three De Bolien Brothers; double trapeze act, the De Armours; flying trapeze, Marvelous Melville; double trapeze, Two Ellets; slide for life, Toki Murata; single trapeze, Maud Leipnik, balancing trapeze, John Wazard; Spanish web act, Mlle. Zenta, and flying trapeze, loop walking, leaps and catches, Big Fred Rouen. Twenty-six girls were seen in a grand march and drill. The fun makers put on a comic drill, and Johnson and Stearling made a hit in a mule hurdle act.
The managerial heads of this Cincinnati Big Show are: Oliver Scott, general agent . . . "the story man," Doc Waddell; advance press representative, C. L. Springer; representative ahead, George S. Cole; chief of staff at the door, Harry Exley . . . superintendent of privileges, Harry Lampkin.
Robinson's carries a minister, and has done so for three years. Sabbath services are always held under the tents, conducted by Rev. J. Stanley Wellington. James Dutton, the rider, is captain of the circus ball team, composed of riders and acrobats. Last season this team won over thirty games from ___ around the country.
The annex is managed by a veteran of the Robinson forces, Capt. Cal Towers . . . Zello, strong act; the Donatells, impalement act; P. Donatello, musical act; Otto and Aga, mind readers; Amy, snake charmer; Capt. Harry Reed and his den of trained lions; Maybell Albright, serpent enchantress; Frank, the broom king; William Reid's colored band, jubilee singers and minstrel first part, and the tallest horse in the world, an equine ten feet high. . . .
New York Clipper, May 11, 1907, p. 324. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Roster of the ring acts of the Carl Hagenbeck & Great Wallace Show combined: C. H. Sweeney, equestrian director; W. Merrick, musical director; Herman Boger, director of animal displays; Golden Troupe, Russian dancers; the Petrolsky Troupe, Russian dancers; Reuben Castang, elephant act; Charles Judge, animal act; Percy Phillips, elephant act; Winnie Sweeney, rider; Lulu Davenport, Millie Ginnet, Lillian Davis, riders; Frederick ___, trained zebras; C. Sweeney, animal act; Capt. Alaska's trained seals; the Savoys, boxers; Harry Schubert, animal act; Reno and McCree, jockeys; George Rowland, rider; John Swallow, rider; Okabe Sacha, Japanese slide; the Kings, revolving ladder; Anita Faber, trapeze; Emma Donovan, flying rings; Stella Miaco, revolving ladder; Horace Webb, revolving ladder; Tasmanian Trio, high wire; ___, Japanese slide; John Dudak, polar bear act; Art and Dot Adair, ladder perch; Delno Troupe, athletes; Hatura and Kawara, double perch; Three Alvos, athletes; the Rowlandes, equestrians; ___ and Kanko, novelty acrobats; Plamondon and Amondo, on the revolving ladder; the Raven Trio, acrobats; Ida Miaco and Grace Jenks, riders; Miss Connors, rider; Miss Taylor and Roy Spiker, riders; Carrie Norenberg, rider; Savoy and Litchel, riders; Paul Brachard, contortionist; the Kells, skaters; Great Stantz, contortionist; Matsumoto, contortionist; Fred Delmont and company, skaters; ___, high wire; Joe Litchel, mule act, and the riders in the Royal Roman Hippodrome.
Mlle. Rose Edyth, premier danseuse and ballet mistress, who was last season with the Carl Hagenbeck Circus, has been engaged for the Great Fashion Plate Circus, opening at Geneva, O., May 4. Her principal dancing will be featured in the ballet and big show. Mme. Thompson will costume the ballets.
Manager Aronson, of the Gollmar Bros.' side show, has booked Silvia, a snake charmer, with an original act. She handles from seven to ten of the longest black pythons in America, and has in her collection a genuine black African boa constrictor fourteen feet in length.
Roster of Cole Bros.' World Toured Shows: E. C. Knupp, general agent; John D. Corey, general press representative; Harry Potter, railroad contractor; Robt. Clemons, yard contractor; Harry E. Curtis, manager car No. 2; Fred J. Bates, manager car No. 3; Robt. Simons, opposition agent; G. C. Moyer, special agent; E. N. Waters, route agent.
Zech and Zech write that they opened their summer season with the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows, at Oxford, Pa., April 20, and their high class feature ring act is winning applause at each performance.
Notes from the Riggs Wild West. We left our winter quarters at Parkin, Ark., on the evening of April 19, arriving at Louisville, Ky., the following day. Immediately on our arrival at Louisville the cars were unloaded and the stock and white tops were taken to their new quarters at the White City for two weeks, opening 27. About three hundred negro tenants from the Wales-Riggs plantation gathered about the winter home to see the "wheels go 'round" for the first time of the big show. Our show consists of the following: Capt. C. W. Riggs, president and manager; Harry Overton, general superintendent; the Feagans Family Band (ten in number); Glenn T. Riggs, cowboy barrel jumper; J. Brackenrige, trick and fancy lariat twirler; Kit Carson Jr., rifle shooting on the slack wire; Old Chief Black Cloud and his band of Navajo warriors, with Frog Foot, their medicine man; Capt. C. W. Riggs and his cowboys, Prairie Rose and her band of cowgirls, Wild Lillie, Navajo Bonita, Chiquito Belle, Mexican bucking horse rider, and Cliff Dweller Annie. Mr. Brackenrige has the song book privilege, while Hippodrome Jimmie will make fun for the children throughout the performance.
Notes from the C. T. Burch Shows. Roster of advance of the shows: owner, C. T. Burch; general manager, E. M. Burk; general agent, J. H. B. Fitzpatrick; railroad contractor, William Gilson; press representative, Harold Carpenter; local contractor, Victor Stout; car manager, Truck Williams; boss bill poster, Tom Scanlan; billposters, Chas. Scraggs, Edward Redmund, Jim Gillett, Harry Bowers, John Peters, Wm. Carpenter, Harry Williams, Slim Johnson, Red Harris and Bob White.; excursion men, John Johnson, W. H. Cooms, Ed. Russell, Will Dixon and Chas. Birmingham. Among the audience at the opening performance of the Burch Shows, at Sacramento, Cal., on April 4, were Governor L. N. Gillett, Lieut-Gov. Warren T. Porter, Atty. Gen. Jackson, Mayor M. T. Land, Hon. Jacob Zemansky and Senator John Norton.
Geo. Parento, sensational high ladder and table performer and hand equilibrist, is one of the principal features with Jones Enormous Shows. This is his fourth season with that show.
Notes from the Silver Family Show, Bert Silver, manager. We open our tenting season at our new headquarters, Crystal, Mich., May 8. Our route is all in Michigan time, being the same route the Silver Family has made for twenty-five years. We carry thirty people, twenty-two horses, ten wagons, two sleeping cars, two advance wagons. All the wagons are painted bright red and aluminum. We claim to have the finest twelve-wagon show touring Michigan. We return to Crystal July 4, whre the Silver Family own a large summer resort, and will have a celebration July 4. Then our route lays in Eastern Michigan. Roster as follows: Silver Family of eight musicians, singers, dancers, magicians, jugglers, etc., also a solo band and orchestra; Mont Peters, triple bars, wire and rings; Degalda, equilibrist, trapeze and comedian; Jack Lynch, singing and dancing comedian; Ed. Lee, contortionist, perch, traps, etc.; Geo. Clow, musical act; J. Sigsbee, musician, and A. J. Preston, with W. D. Hillman, in advance, and teamsters and working men. Our top is 70x100. We have all new, special paper for a good show, and hope to get our share of business.
At the conclusion of a performance at Hyrop's Palace of Life Motion Pictures, Wilmington, Del., Harold Dowing, of the Downing Bros., who was closing his engagement to rejoin L. W. Washburn's Trained Animal Shows, for the third season as the black face concert team, was presented by the owners, management and employees, with a beautiful gold watch.
Herbert, "The Frog Man," is with the Sells-Floto Shows, and reports meeting with his customary success.
Punch Wheeler, the veteran press representative, now with the Sells-Floto Circus, writes as follows: "The circus had immense business, three days at San Francisco, and two days at Oakland. All California dates have been to fine attendance."
Dan Ducrow returned to the United States April 27, after his tour of Cuba with the Columbia Circus, and is located at Brooklyn for the summer.
Tom L. Wilson is again with the Walter L. Main Shows, as contracting press agent, his fifth consecutive season with that circus combine.
New York Clipper, May 18, 1907, pp. 360, 361, 362. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Sells-Floto notes. On April 20, one year and two days after San Francisco destruction, the Sells-Floto Show began its engagement The circus gave five exhibitions to overflowing attendance. The show grounds were three miles from the railway station. That would necessitated a six mile haul for each team of draught horses for each load to the grounds, besides a ten mile parade the same day. In order to save the stock and also to facilitate matters, the gaents hired ten "gillie" teams from local contractors, to do the extra hauling. Business at Oakland was immense, and, if fact, the entire coast tour, so far this season, has been over a hundred per cent higher in receipts than this circus ever did in this country, and this is its fifth tour. The show, after California, will go into the Nevada gold camps, and it will be the first circus to reach ___, Goldfield and Las Vegas, where the admission is one dollar, with another dollar extra for reserved seats. Everyone connected with the show is anxious to entertain the ___ in the proper spirit. It has been decided to again tour old Mexico next winter, and, as the show was very successful in that land last year, this season the tour will be extended as far South as Salina Cruz, on the Pacific side, and if the proper steamship can be secured (for which negotiations are now in progress), the entire outfit will be transported to Panama for the month of January, and reopen its 1908 season in the City of Mexico, where the organization is very popular.
James Moran, press agent, writes: "Lowery Bros.' opening was big at Shenandoah, Pa. Outfit new. Fine press notices all along the line."
The Alpine Family will be with the Sells-Floto Shows this season.
The roster of car No. 3, of the Barnum & Bailey Show is as follows: Oliver Lester, car manager; James J. Hynie, lithographer; Arthur Strain, boss billposter; Wm. Caulfield, C. Clegg, C. Clark, P. Stenson, J. Johnson, H. Stall, J. E. Parsons and Geo. Graham, billposters.
Chas. Hilderra has joined the Al. F. Wheeler Show for the season, to do his novelty ring contortion act in the big show. Hilderra has discontinued doing aerial work for this season.
Billy Kin Kaid, eccentric juggler, has joined the Barnum & Bailey Show, making this his fourth season with this show. He will return to vaudeville with a new act at the close of the circus season.
John Ringling announced last week that the Forepaugh-Sells Brothers' Circus will begin an engagement at Madison Square Garden, New York City, in about a month.
Harry De Marlo is with the Ringling Bros.' Circus this season, his second season with this show. He has a new aerial act, which he reports is making a big hit.
Paul M. Comas, of Ringling Bros.' advance car No. 2, is acting steward.
Roster of the attractions with the Great American Hippodrome, which began a three weeks' engagement at the New Auditorium, St. Paul, Minn., April 27, management of G. J. Prescott; the Flying Cowboy Band, Maud Burbank and her high school horse, Jeanette Burnell, menage act; Little Olga, Senorita Mesa and Blunt, contortionists; Miss Stanley, menage act; Hirschell and his black stallion, Cricket; William De Van, hurdle riding; Miss De Von and her tandem high school horses; the Aherns and Manola Family, in head and hand balancing; the Aerial Carriers and Malcom and Shevett, triple bar; Meier Family, waterworkers, divers and boat races; Varno and Valdare Troupe, bicyclists; Eddie Martine, bounding wire; Miss Delevaro, bounding wire; the Flying Baldwins, Edwin Blunt, Mesa and miss Betaro, Essie Fay's trained leopards, George Mills' comedy mules, the Howards, knife throwers, and Miss De Von and her dogs and cats; the singing clowns; Devater Trio, club swingers; Cevenne Bros., tight wire; Regora and Ray, acrobats and rings; the Rosards, trick house and tumbling; McKinney, "Shooting the Flames."
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's Shows. We opened our season at Oxford, Pa., April 20, to two capacity houses, and business since that time has been fully up to the "New Model" standard. The following heads of departments are at the helm: Al. F. Wheeler, manager; Adam Gillespie, assistant manager; F. J. Frink, general agent; Will T. Miller, superintendent of annex; George Wood, superintendent of canvas; J. Q. Miller, boss hostler; Ed. Mabb, in charge of pony and ring stock; Horace Prentiss, boss of props; Gus Berry, chef; Ed. H. Bell, superintendent of privileges. Our stock is in prime condition, and Jas. McVittie, master of transportation, always has the show in on time. He has just returned from a trip to New York, where he purchased three fine span of draught horses.
Complete roster of car No. 1, Gollmar Bros.' Greatest of American Shows: Wm. Deily, manager car; John Carr, boss billposter; W. H. Martin, Hubert Howard, J. Hartman, Zeak Mawhood, D. F. Worth, Geo. Jackson, Walter Jensen, Chas. Cleveland, J. Ludwig, Chas. Averill, W. Strong and J. Sanders, billposters; ___ Robinson, lithographer; L. N. Moore, programmes. The weather has been very bad since we openeing, and snow storms have been frequent.
Mme. Marie Welsh, costumer, is en route with the Forepaugh-Sells Circus, after her duties with the Ringling Bros. Show.
Several persons, who went through the earthquake which did great damage and caused considerable loss of life in Mexico several weeks ago, arrived here Saturday, May 4, from Havana and Mexican ports. Among them were several performers in the F. & R. Blake Circus Troupe. Kittie Willard, one member of the troupe, was severely injured in the earthquake.
Messrs. Blake & Willard, owners of the Syndicate Shows, who have been touring Mexico the past winter with their attractions, arrived in port Friday, May 3, from Vera Cruz. They bring with them over one hundred animals and thirty-two people. Their attractions: the Animal Circus, Temple of Music, Calcutta Mysteries and San Francisco Earthquake, will be seen at Wonderland, ___ Beach, Boston, this coming season.
John Morrissey, an old circus rider, died while riding in practice, on the morning of May 9, in the Bronx, this city, just prior to the morning parade of D'Alma's Show, with which he was connected. It is said that he applied to John D'Alma, proprietor of the show, on Wednesday, May, 8, and asked for work. On the morning of May 9, while the show was making ready for the morning parade, Morrissey was given a black pony, and as he started from the ring, on its back, he suddenly slid from the horse to the ground and died.
Notes from Fisher's Big Show. We opened in Phillipsburg, Kan., Thursday May 2, in a blinding snow storm that had lasted two days, and the large waterproof tent was pretty well filled in spite of the weather. Our next stand, Almena, was played under the same conditions. Saturday, May 4, we played Col. Fisher's home town, Norton, to capacity at both performances, the weather having moderated. This is a new show, five cars, ninety foot round top, with four forty-foot middle pieces, and will seat ___, people. We have one ring and a thirty foot stage for the performance. We have a seventy foot round top for our vaudeville show. Jack McArthur making the opening for the same at the return of the parade. There is a parachute leap daily in front of the top. We have fourteen pieces in our band, and eight in the concert orchestra. Our official staff is as follows: Col. Burt Fisher, proprietor and manager; Ivan Fisher, treasurer; W. G. Fisher, adjuster; W. Woods, railroad contractor; Denny Reno, equestrian director; W. ___, musican director; Jack McArthur, privileges. The performers are: Weber Family, eight in number, acrobats and casting act; Great Renos, Dottie and Denny, comedy acrobats; Three ___, trapeze, aerial rings and trampoline; Professor Woods, educated dogs and ponies . . . Martin and King, clown juggler and comedians . . . McArthur and Kelly, knockabouts. We have one cage of African lions, owned and broken in by Col. Fisher's father, who works them himselfas a big concert feature. We also carry twenty head of stock, horses and ponies, and it is a new show, but one that will be heard from in the West. Our parade is a feature, having a steam calliope, and all new trappings on the stock and new costumes for the performers and musicians. It is certainly a treat, and we think it looks good to the people judging from the large crowds that follow to the show grounds and pass smiling into the big top. The success so far has been phenomenal, and we hope it keeps up. We will play Western States exclusively this season. We have one car and twelve men in advance, who succeed in getting us a big crowd at each stand.
New York Clipper, May 25, 1907, pp. 378, 391. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Roster of Gollmar Bros.' Shows: Chas. Gollmar, manager; B. F. Gollmar, treasurer; B. F. Gollmar, treasurer; Walt Gollmar, equestrian director; ___ Wirtz, assistant equestrian director; Fred Gollmar, advance representative; Dr. F. Tryon, press representative . . . John White, charge of front door; Doc. Parkhurst, charge of canvas; Howard Anderson, boss properties; Geo. Holland, boss hostler; Bert Kratz, assistant boss hoslter; Emery Styles, boss animal man; Steven Smyth, charge of ring stock; Flying Nelsons, aerial act; Smith Family, high wire; Maxwell, Nelson, Hill Troupe, aerial bars; Wooley and Pierce, aerial bars; Fred Gregg, loop the loop and dip of death; Emery Styles, trained elephants; Bert Noyes, trained elephants; Chas. Rooney, hurdle rider; Allie Gustad, hurdle rider; Smith Family, acrobats; Two Judges, head balance and aerial teeth swing; the Ashtons, comedy acrobats; Yedda La Velle and ballet of twenty-five; Lizzie Rooney, rider; Dollie Julian, rider; Ed. Rooney, bounding wire; Chas. Gagineer, juggling; Al. Neuton, rolling globe; Vandelle, barrell kicking; Della Royal, menage act; Geo. Wood, menage act; Chas. Rooney, menage act; Ray Spikes, menage act; the Great Lafferty, contortionist; Vancello, contortionist; Geo. Wyman, Bert Smith, Al. Neuton, James Ferguson, Wm. Barnella, Joe Ashton and Chas. Gagineer, clowns. Big show band, R. W. Baker, director; John Dusch, cornet; Armet Dougherty, cornet; Dell Smith, cornet; Gus Doreman, clarinet; L. D. Johnson, clarinet; Carl Brederson, piccolo; Louis Larson, alto; ?. Beck, alto; Peter Thordson, trombone; Harry Knight, trombone; Art Morstad, baritone; Bob Allen, tuba; G. C. Loomis, drums; Harry Bundy, drums. Roster of side show band: Bert Gribble, leader; James Rolfe, cornet; Chas. Wood, alto; Wm. Green, tuba; Art Jorganson, drums; Chas. Carpenter, baritone. Roster of side show: Len Aronson, manager; H. F. Parker, first box; Ralph Bailey, second box; Millie Clifford, sword swallowing act; James Morrison, elastic skin man; Geo. Mellivar, tattooed man; ___, needle eating; Chas. La Noire, musical act; Harry Moulton, ventriloquist; Millie Moulton, operatic selections; Silvia, snake enchantress; G. Elwood Touns, magician. The Gollmar Bros.' Greatest of American Shows opened at Baraboo, Wis., May 4, turning people away at both performances.
C. C. Lee, "Blackjack," all around cowboy and fancy rider, joine the Riggs Wild West Show last week. W. F. Spencer is now on the Indian Reservation, getting more Indians for Riggs' Wild West Shows. He will join the show at Muncie, Ind. Paul C. Blum, formerly with Buffalo Bill, is now general agent for Riggs' Wild West.
General agent L. C. Zelleno sends the follwoing regarding the Great Lugar Shows. This show opened the season at Eaton, O., on May 1, playing there three days, to capacity business. The regular road season opened at Camden, O., on May 4, and the show has since been doing a good business through Indiana. In fact, business has been beyond expectations, and at Liberty, Ind., on May 8, a new 30ft. middle piece was added to the big top, and we are now prepared for the big crowds. The roster of the show is as follow: Jos. A. Lugar, general manager; R. S. Higgins, assistant manager; L. C. Zelleno, general agent; Chas. Johns, special agent; ?. M. Faulkner, route rider; Sid De Clairville, equestrian director; Riley Brown, superintendent; Jack Finnegan, boss canvas man; Shorty Crouch, boss hostler, and H. Frank Allan, side show manager. Some of the feature acts in the big show are: Prof. Ed. Sheets, trained dogs and ponies; the Great Samoya, in his hazardous aerial act; De Forrest Bros., comedy acrobats; Carey, juggler; Hurliss, "The Human Lizard"; Vane and De Clairville, presenting "A Parlor Circus"; Robetta Bros., high kickers and barrel jumpers; Goldie, the trained pony, and other acts constitute a programme that makes the Great Lugar Shows one of the best 25 cent shows on the road.
Notes from the Sells-Floto Shows in the Nevada gold camps. After the most successful season the show has ever had in California, this circus is now in the Nevada gold camps. At Reno, May 9 and 10, a record breaking business was our portion. This is the first time any circus has ventured into the real gold belt, on the borders of the famous "Death Valley." The new towns on this circuit are Mina, Tonopah, Goldfield, Rhyolite, Las Vegas and Cailente, and the railroad has only been completed within the past month. The prices are $1 admission, with $1 extra for reserved seats. Everything is very high, including the railroading. Wood for the cook house is $35 [$55?] a cord; bread, in contract lots of 1,000 loaves daily, is ten cents per loaf. An enormous advance sale now indicates that the pioneering of this territory was a judicious move, and these camps will hereafter be included in the show's itinerary. The weather has been delightful ever since the opening day, five weeks ago, with no opposition whatever.
The Great Fashion Plate Show, under the direction of Walter L. Main, opened at Geneva, O., May 4, to capacity business. Roster: Jim Rutherford, equestrian director; Prof. Schwan's band; Garnell Troupe, aerial bars; White's dogs, Nichols Bros., acrobats; Floyd Bernard, wire act; Pat Kelley, ladder act; White's horses, menage mule, Agnes Kelley, traps; Antone and Bales, revolving ladder; Mr. Arnold, traps; Floyd Bernard, contortionist; Brock Bros., table act; Fred Whitten, contortionist; the Rose-Edyth Ballet Troupe, Treek Bros., acrobats; Mangean Troupe, acrobats; White's donkeys, Nichols Family, wire act; Kelley Sisters, iron jaw act; Brock Bros., Whetten, Yaeger, Arnold, Antonio, Bale, Gerard, Lavelle and Vallon, clowns.
Notes from the Silver Family Big Top Show, Bert Silver, manager. We opened at our headquarters, Crystal, Mich., May _, with the tent packed to the doors, though the weather was cold. We are doing our usual business, and carry a stronger show this season than ever before. Route is the same as past years, as we do not have to change our territory. We have been thirty years in Michigan, and are still making good each season.
Jim H. Rutherford, who for the past six seasons was connected with the Ringling Show, is the equestrian director with the new Fashion Plate Shows. He also produced all the clown entrees, but is not playing clown this season.
Edw. Barnell, of the Barnells, has returned from a trip to Europe, and was rejoined by Hanna Barnell, at Jersey City. On account of the delayed arrival of part of their baggage, they were not able to join Frank A. Robbins' Circus. They will join Prof. Adams' Shows May __, for the summer.
Notes from Canada Frank's Big Tent Show. We closed a successful season of forty-five weeks with no accidents to speak of. Frank will rest for six weeks, and will then put out a different show entirely from anything he has ever taken out, and we think will be a surprise to all his friends, as well to the older heads in the tent show business. The show will open the last week in June, playing Iowa, Missouri and Illinois.
Shortly after the performance began to the tent of the Francis Mack Circus at Belleville, N.J., Friday night, May 17, the seats on one side of the tent collapsed and the occupants were thrown to the ground. Only two persons were seriously hurt, and the performance was resumed in half an hour after the accident.
New York Clipper, June 1, 1907, pp. 408, 420. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Grand Old Hippodrome Show. This two car show opened at Fredonia, Kan., May 4, to turnaway business. This is our fourteenth stand in Kansas, and although the weather has been unfavorable, we have packed them in at every performance. Roster of show is as follows: Business staff - O. B. Cahill, manager; Newton Crawford, assistant manager; Mrs. O. B. Cahill, treasurer; Frank Carpenter, equestrian director; Earl Hawk, master of transportation; Joe Lightner and Jack Boise, advance. The Rossards, trick house and barrel jumping; Clara Moncayo, contortionist; Barron and Munden, trick bicyclists and unicyclists; Frank Carpenter, principal clown, with Ray Jones, Herman Munden and Jack Yenble, clowns; Raymond and Rose, Roman rings; Mrs. F. V. Carpenter, with her educated dogs; O. B. Cahill, comedy juggler; A. G. Willman, director of band; Roy Edwards, cornet; Edwards Gertzenkrau, cornet; Chas. Tarr, trombone; Oscar Rhodes, trombone; Newton Crawford, baritone; Walter Berlew, bass; Will Ziegler, solo alto; Frank Rowland, clarinet; Earl Hawk, traps; Jack Yenble, bass drum; Neil McGrath, properties; Doc Carr, boss canvas man, with five assistants.
A double wedding took place at the Church of San Lorenzo, City of Mexico, Mexico, on April 7, when Father Reis united Gertrude Cheibll, of St. Louis, Mo., and Albert Bell, and Nellie Lewis, of Trenton, Mo., and Edward Bell. The grooms are both sons of the clown, Dick Bell, while the brides are musical performers in the Circo Bell.
Forepaugh & Sells notes. Business throughout the Jersey stands has been enormous. At Newark enough were turned away to fill another full sized tent. At Elizabeth standing room was sold. The show moves like a clock, all of the acts dovetailing in excellent fashion. The various riding acts, including Oscar Lowande, Madam Lancaster, Mrs. H. Hill, Al. Dean, Orrin Davenport, A. F. Wallett, Rebecca Daniels, May Davenport and Julia Shipp, are always sure of big appleause. The aerial displays, presented by the La Van Troupe, Stirk Family, Minnie Forepaugh, Will Adair and the Flying Fishers, just before the hippodrome races, hold the audience as if rooted to the seats. With few exceptions, the programme has remained unchanged since the opening. In the Fire and Flames Show, Fred Zobedie introduces a comedy bit as a woman, hanging from one of the windows, losing his clothing, and is finally dragged back by a fireman. He finishes with a jump into the life net. Mr. Zobedie's hand balancing act is also a prominent feature. John H. Gill's Military Band, in the concert and incidental numbers, present high class selections. Joseph La Fleur's Mexican dog, "Chiquita," gives valuable assistance to Fred Welcome, during his splendid hand balancing act.
Al. F. Wheeler's New Model annex notes. Will T. Miller is again in charge of this department, and business has been up to the New Model standard. Features: Madam Lascelle, untamable lion act; Cleo, snake hypnotist; Madam Belmont, impalement act; La Dell, marionettes and Punch; Miller, magician and ventriloquist; Mascot, small horse, and eleven cages of animals. Prof. Clark and his eight piece band, furnish the music for this department. Grant Allmon has No. 1 ticket box and Frank Harris has No. 2. Our new model arch door painting causes them to look up and take notice, as it is quite a novel idea.
Francis J. Boyle, of the Boyle Brothers, writes that they closed a very successful thirty-two weeks' engagement as a special attraction with the Anderson Stock Co., at Toronto, Can., March 30, and opened with the Sun Brothers' Progressive Shows, at Macon, Ga., April 3. Their big club juggling, hoop rolling and illuminated chandelier balancing act is one of the effective numbers with the show.
Jones Show notes. The roster of the dressing room is as follows: Mr. and Mrs. John B. Wright, principal singing and talking clowns, introducing the "Hod Carriers"; Maude Josephine, aerial rings; Fred Salmon, talking clown; Prof. Howard's trained dogs and ponies, Geo. Parento, ladder act and high backward dive; Lillian Harrington, Japanese ladder act; Clara Lawrence, perch and wire act; Geo. Parento and Slater, double trapeze; Miss Brown, sailor ladder act; Donnelly and Williams, January act, and Cudjoe and his trained donkeys. The show is doing good business. Mr. Wright has charge of the dressing room.
Robert Weldon, one of the cowboys with Riggs' Wild West, was badly burned by the premature discharge of a pistol while the show was playing at Xenia, O.
Mrs. James A. Bailey, widow of the showman, has given $10,000 to the Mount Vernon Hospital, as a fund to enlarge and equip the hospital building. In addition, Mrs. Bailey has decided to expend at least $10o,000 for a new hospital to be built beside the present structure, and to be called the Bailey Memorial Hospital. It is to be the central administration building of the whole hospital corporation.
Al. G., of Al. G. and Mazie Belford, writes: "I am with Tuttle's Olympic Show. With my wife, we are putting on the concert, and have full charge of the same, also have song book privilege. I am acting as equestrian director and announcer in big show, also doing singing and talking clown. We are in our third week of good business."
Notes from the J. E. Henry Show. We left Stonewall, Ind. Ter., March _, and have not lost but two stands so far. We have played to the best business in the history of the show, and now have fifteen wagons and carry twenty-five people. Edward Conklin is very successful with his illusions and magic. The Richard Bros. joined a few weeks ago, in musical sketches. Our little Shetland pony, only two months old and weighing eighteen pounds, is a hit.
New York Clipper, June 8, 1908, pp. 439, 443. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
George Arthur Rowland, of the Rowlands, tally-ho riders, was killed on Saturday night, June _, at Huntington, Pa. While he was waiting to board his sleeper, on the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus car, an express, in passing, drew him under the wheels, the wind from the passing train getting under his umbrella, which he had raised, and causing him to be drawn by the suction to a death beneath the wheels. Mr. Rowland was thirty-nine years old. During recent years he had been with Forepaugh-Sells, 1905; Barnum & Bailey, 1906; and New York Hippodrome, winter of 1906-07. The troupe was engaged for the summer season with the Wallace-Hagenbeck Show, season of 1907. Interment will be in Evergreen Cemetery, on Wednesday, June _.
Punch Wheeler, the press representative of the Sells-Floto Circus, writes: "This roving outfit goes into new lands, and we are the first circus through here (dated Goldfield, Nev.). The railroad is just finished. Prices are $7 admission, and $1 extra for reserved seats. Pink lemonate is 25 cents, in fact, all water costs money. When a building catches fire, they let it burn, as water costs more than lumber to rebuild it. The Clipper costs 25 cents here, and you can get the Old Reliable at any camp, town, diggings or island I was ever in. . . .
Charles Hilderra, now en route with the Al. F. Wheeler Show, has joined hands with Zech and Zech, aerialists, with the same show, to do a novelty aerial act for next season. The act will be known as the Zech Trio, and will present a high class novelty combination ring and trapeze act for vaudeville. Mr. Hilderra will be known hereafter as Chas. Zech.
New York Clipper, June 22, 1907, p. 491. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. Despite very unfavorable weather, our business through Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York has been very satisfactory . . . We now have sixty-three head of stock, eleven cages of animals, and give a performance that is "making good" everywhere we show. Our annex, under the management of Will T. Miller, is doing a land office business, and sending them out well pleased.
Tom Tom Rankin, Fred Griffin, Tom Burke and Major Keller, of the Buffalo Bill Show, were visitors at the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show, in Brooklyn, Sunday, June 9.
Notes from Thardo's United Shows, touring Pennsylvania, under canvas. We opened May __, at Linesville, Pa., and business has been excellent from the start. The show is one of the best we have ever had, and we have had to turn people away at several stands, although the weather has been very unfavorable. Our advance agent, Geo. E. Brondson, is the best agent since the days of Billy ___. We have an excellent lot of paper, and everything is running as smooth as glass. Following is the roster of the show: Ed. Thardo, proprietor; Mrs. A. F. Tuttle, manager and treasurer; Ed. Thardo, contortionist; Master Paul Thardo, singing and talking clown; the Thardos, impalement act; Geo. A. Grant, wire walker and juggler; Dan Murdock, flexible equilibrist and balancer . . . Nellie Tuttle's canine paradox. The concert is under the direction of John P. Jack, and we are packing them to the doors every night. We have five big acts in the concert, and every act a feature. John P. Mack is booked on one of the Western circuits for twenty-eight weeks, after Oct. _. The "ghost" walks every week.
Notes from the Grand Circo Bell, Mexico. Beginning with our first stand after leaving Mexico City, April __, it has been one continuation of ideal circus weather. No rain, but warm, sunny days and cool evenings. Business has been grand. At Guadalajura, for ten days, all records were broken for the twenty-seven years of annual visits of the show there San Louis Potosi, for the ten days was the same, and at the present writing from Monterey, from indications, it is going to happen again. The following help to keep things moving, also presenting a change of programme often: Ricardo Bell Sr., proprietor; Dick Bell Jr., manager . . . Performers: Madame Schell and her lions, the Bros. Diericks, modern athletic display; the Three Lucifers, novelty dancers; Prof. James Parker, Burton's Dog Circus, Truman and Schaffer, jugglers; Miss Raymond, wire act; Mons. Hugo (formerly of the Florence Family), heavy lifting, juggling and balancing; Aido adn Vanerson, horizontal bars; Ringal and Fatama, contortionists, and the Bell Family as follows - Dick Bell Sr., Dick Bell Jr., Fransiska, Amelia, Letia, Albert, Gerie, Eddie, Nellie, Charlie, Willie, Georgie, Silvia, Estella, Oscar, Arthur, Josephine, Eva - all Bells, not a "ringer" among them, and a more versatile and congenial combination of talent would be hard to find. Emilie Lea Lucifer celebrated her fifteenth birthday at San Louis Potosi, May 20, and was the recipient of many valuable presents from members of the Bell Family and the company.
Notes from Millner, Roselle and Millner. We have signed for the season with the Bonheur Bros.' Golden Mascot Shows. We travel in our own cars. They are painted a bright yellow, and all baggage, seats, poles, etc., are the same color. The big business and the success of this show, year after year, does away with the hoodoo yellow idea. We make one and two night stands, carry thirty people, and band and orchestra.
The Four Borsinis have replaced the Colby Trio with the Forepaugh-Sells Show.
Notes from Sun Bros.' Shows. This show is in the eleventh week of the current season, and is just emerging from a veritable deluge of rain and mud. The season thus far, from the atmospheric point of view, has been the worst in the annals of the show. Ever since leaving Macon, this Spring, the elements have been anything but conducive to outdoor exhibitions. Notwithstanding this, the show has moved along on schedule time, and given performances twice daily. All of the people have enjoyed good health. The accommodations in the sleepers this season have been unusually fine. These cars are conceded to be the very finest ever carried by any tented show. They are both supplied with the most modern heating appliances, and during the recent cold weather the cars were kept at a fine temperature. Archie M. Donaldson of the Donaldson Litho Co., was an interested spectator and guest at Maysville, Ky. J. P. Fagan, of the Barnum & Bailey forces, had a recent look at the "Big Little" show. Bobby Fay, J. Zellers and the Aerial Twin Starr are newcomers in the main show programme, and their respective specialties are being received in a most favorable manner. M. Hurgower has succeeded C. S. Clark as contracting agent. Mr. Clarke has been transferred to the executive staff back with the show, and is making good in his new capacity. An entire new layout of blue and red seats, all of the most modern approved safety kind, have been added to the "big top" department, which makes the equipment practically as first class as any show of its size now touring America.
Notes from Frank A. Robbins' Shows. We are now entering upon our ninth week. We have never missed a performance, have commenced late once, and then only fifteen minutes. With the single exception of New Britain, we have never been upon a lot after 11:45 p.m. With very few exceptions the train has been unloaded by 6 a.m., and while we have had a great deal of bad weather, we have never been short of workingmen in any department, the complement being one hundred and fifty, and the lowest number drawing pay at any one pay day has been one hundred and thirty-eight. For the first five weeks the receipts were big, and the next two weeks, from a combination of circumstances, fell off some. Since that time business has increased a little, probably owing to better weather. We havenot had an accident ot a horse, car, wagon or animal, but, on the other hand, have five colts that have been born since our opening. The public and press have been a unit in praising the show, not only for its excellent performances and the splendid condition of the entire outfit, but also for the discipline and good behavior of everybody connected with the show, drunkenness, rowdyism and fighting being an unknown quantity. In a great many instances we have made the towns for three years in succession, and all of them at least twice in three years, and in every case where the conditions were equal, the receipts have exceeded that of any previous visit. . . . fifty lenghts of blues, twenty lengths of reserves, and six lengths of portable platform, we can do considerable business and not turn people away.
Pawnee Bill notes. Business with Pawnee Bill's Wild West Shows since our opening at Nashville, Tenn., has been all that could be desired, notwithstanding the fact that we have encountered rain or opposition, and in most cases, both. In all of the larger cities, such as Memphis, Tenn.; Paducah, Ky.; Evansville and Terre Haute, Ind.; St. Louis, Mo.; Chicago, Ill.; and Davenport, Ia., we have done a turnaway business. In St. Louis and Chicago Mr. Thompson, our press agent, is credited with receiving more newspaper publicity than was ever given a tented exhibition. At Paducah, Ky., which is the home of the Terrell Bros., formerly proprietors of Buckskin Bill's Wild West Shows, Syd Terrell gave Pawnee Bill and party a very novel outing. Mr. Terrill is now in the distilling business, that is located about three miles from the city. After the afternoon performance, three automobiles carried the "major" and his party to the distillery, where the party sat down to a banquet, which consisted solely of dishes famous in the Southland in the ante bellum days. It was a decided novelty to all, dining surrounded by many thousand barrells of whiskey, which Mr. Terrell guarantees has had all the headaches extracted. Mr. Terrell says he is not entirely out of show business, and expects in the near future to launch an enterprise that will make the wise ones sit up and take notice. At Chicago, we received all new canvas, and the show, with its new dress looks very bright and pretty. We have been forced to increase our seating capacity and at Minneapolis we will receive thirty more length of blues, and five lenghts of reserved seats, which is an addition that has long been needed.
The Two Juggling Johns joined the juggling Boyles, recently, and according to reports, are making a decided hit. This new act is under the guidance of Francis J. Boyle, and this season is being featured as one of the "big noise" specialties in the main show programme with Sun Brothers in the main show programme with Sun Brothers' World's Progressive Shows.
Notes from the Steele Family Show. We opened under a 40x70 tent, near Detroit, May 20, to a splendid business, which has continued when the weather has been at all pleasant, but since our opening we have had some snow, and a great amount of rain. Business has been quite satisfactory, and when the weather becomes settled we expect to do our usual amount of business, which means capacity at every stand.
Tom L. Wilson has closed with the Fashion Plate Show.
The Great Aerial Smiths are with Ringling Bros.' Circus.
Major Keller, juggling drum major, reports meeting with success in his novel act, with Buffalo Bill's Wild West.
Antonio Pubillones, the famous Cuban circus proprietor, was married in Havana, Cuba, on May 25, to Geraldine Leopold, a celebrated European performer. The circus will start the summer season of ten weeks in ___, Cuba.
New York Clipper, July 6, 1907, p. 539. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Roster of advance car No. 1, John Robinson's Circus" ___ Hickman, manager; ___ Springer, secretary . . . F. Smith, boss bill poster; Frank Kelger, assistant boss bill poster; Harvey Bell, William Brown, Harry Huber; Elmo Perkins, Nick Cook, J. F. Dodson, Walter Ray, William Blake, Dewey Rogers and Frank Hockefellow, bill posters; George Brubaker, programmer; Chas. Bell, paste maker.
Notes from Sells-Floto side shows, under the personal direction of Jas. A. Morrow. We have been doing a remarkable business through Nevada, Utah, Montana and Idaho, and the same results manifested themselves upon entering Wyoming and Colorado. It's the old story, "blood will tell," etc.
Tarlton and Tarlton, musical team, write they are meeting with success with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows, their second season with the Wallace Show, under the management of W. H. McFarland. The show is plying all Eastern city time.
Pawnee Bill notes. Our contingent of Great Far East people are an extraordinary attraction through this territory. . . . Opposition with the Barnum & Bailey Shows, that started in Memphis, Tenn., continues up to the present time to be fast and furious. Their opposition car is in town almost every day, but business with Pawnee Bill's Wild West continues very big. Both Mr. Arlington, our general agent, and Major Lillie, "Pawnee Bill," have cause to geel flattered over the immense business done at Minneapolis and St. Paul, where the Barnum & Bailey Show gave us our hardest opposition fight. Both cities gave us "turn away" business, showing that the very able coterie of advance people Mr. Arlington has surrounded himself with, have in every way proved that he has displayed excellent judgement in the selection of his advance forces. . . . Preparations are now under way for the presentation, next season, of an elaborate spectacular scenic production, which will be featured, and presented on a scale of magnificence and splendor such as never before been attempted in the amusement field.
Notes from Buffalo Bill's Wild West. . . . we opened our present season at Madison Square Garden, New York, April __, . . . Although we suffered great inconvenience from the cold, backward Spring, we have done a record breaking business, and have only lost one show, at Waterbury, Conn., night of May 24. At Philadelphia and Boston, one week each, we tested the capacity of our immense amphitheatre, which is the largest ever carried by a traveling organization. At Boston, Mass., June 14, Chas. E. Griffin, manager of the side show, was presented with a pair of diamond cuff buttons, by his associates, it being his forty-eighth birthday. Lt. General Nelson A. Miles visited the Wild West at Boston, June 21, and entertained Col. Cody at luncheon, 22. Many notables visited the Wild West at Newport, R.I., 25, and Col. Cody was entertained after the performance. Cody & Bailey are the proprietors; Fred B. Hutchinson, manager; Louis E. Cooke, general agent; Major John M. Burke and Walter K. Hill, press agents in advance; M. Coyle, railroad contractor; Chas. Meredith, special agent; Sam Fiedler and Taom Clare, twenty-four hour agents; Johnny Baker, arenic director; Wm. Sweeney, band master; Jacob Posey, master of stock; "Jake" Platt, supt. of canvas; ?. P. Murphy, master of transportation; D. Ballard, caterer; Col. Chas. Seeley, legal adjuster; J. Garner, Pinkerton detective; Chas. E. Griffin, manager privileges; Al. ___, superintendent black tent; Walter Beckwith, superintendent candy stands; T. Evans, treasurer, and J. B. Harper, assistant treasurer.
Fred Salmon, clown and musical comedian, who reports "making good" with Jones Enormous Shows, is preparing a new act for next season.
Notes from the Al. F. Wheeler Show. The roster of performers up to the present time is as follows: . . . Chas. Hilderro, contortion and flying trapeze; Zech and Zech, double trapeze and rings; Al. F. Wheeler's troupe of performing dogs, Wm. ___, ringmaster and pony act; Frank Clark, singing and talking clown; Al. F. Wheeler Jr., juvenile clown, and featuring Don, the graceful menage and cake walking horse; an act that is pleasing them all. Our entree and street parade and our fifteen piece concert band is making them all sit up and take notice. Our feature concert turn is furnished by the Gorman Juvenile Band and Orchestra. Everyone is enjoying this season's work as we are traveling up through the Adirondack Mountains, where the scenery is grand.
Burt Smith and George H. Wymann are with Gollmar Bros.' Shows, ___ the track and doing character clowning.
Notes from the Great Wagner Show. We have been out four weeks, and business has been fine, although we have had lots of rainy weather to put up with. We have a fine performance this season, and are more than pleasing the people. For a small show we have one of the best in the country.
Edw. Florence (Campbell), manager and head of the Florence acrobatic troupe, died suddenly June __, in Kansas City, Mo. The troupe had played with various tent shows, and their lst appearance in Greater New York was with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show, in Brooklyn, a few weeks ago.
Harry Parrish, assistant superintendent of properties of the Ringling Brothers' Circus, fell from the top of the centre pole of the main tent, at Albany, N.Y., when the circus showed there, sustaining injuries from which he died at St. Peter's Hospital, Albany. He was unmarried.
New York Clipper, July 13, 1907, pp. 563, 565. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
A new circus organization, the Great Sells Shows. the newest big organization to enter canvas circles is the Great Sells Shows, and William Sells, a master mind in this style of entertainment, has at last focused his years of experience into a combination of sterling worth that should soon place this aggregation in the front rank. Always regarded as a liberal and venturesome circus director, his plans laid for this enterprise will embrace an easy tour to Southland, where it is arranged to bring the show to a convenient point on the Gulf of Mexico, where a monster steam passenger and freight vessel of 12,000 tons has been chartered for a two years' cruise, and the itinerary will cover the entire Western Hemisphere. This vast undertaking is regarded by many showmen as being the logical result of conditions in this country. New fields must be open for the big shows. The Sells tour of Australia, many years ago, was looked upon as a most daring venture; Mr. Sells' tour, last year, through Old Mexico, resulted in opening the eyes of showmen generally to the posibilities of these foreign lands just across our border. Shows which are compelled to winter their enterprises each year, at the cost of the past summer's profits, have never figured how to overcome this seemingly unreasonable condition of affairs. This proposition is the result of years of study, and carefully calculated. It will be the first real circus to carry the "Stars and Stripes" into new lands that every American at least should be familiar with.
William Sells will be the pioneer director to take the first real American circus to Havana. After a tour of the island, a trip to Yucatan, Colon and Panama will be made, followed by an extended visit to the West Indies, including engagements at Martinique, St. Kitts, the Bermudas, Jamaica, Haiti, Costa Rica, Bahamas, Porto Rico, opening the South American tour at Georgetown, British Guiana, thence to Rio Janeiro, Buenos Ayres and several important places in the interior of Argentine. After rounding Cape Horn, all the ports of Peru and Chili will be on the route; a second Panama engagement, Guatemala, Nicaraugua up to the Pacific side to Salinas Cruz, where the Tehaontepec railroad will transport the entire show to Mexico City for the second winter season, as the first winter season will be spent in Brazil.
Competent agents and interpreters have been secured. All the printing will be carried on the steamship, and only duties paid on what is necessary for each country. A small steam press on board will print the dates and heralds and small work, as required, in all languages, as well as issue a weekly paper of gossip of American and foreign news for the three hundred show people with this organization. A wireless telegraph system will be used for land information or whatever comes necessary, and this tour will be watched with interest by the public. A well known magazine writer and an expert press reporter on a big New York daily have applied for berths for the entire tour.
Chas. P. Watson, well known as a circus rider, lost his life by drowning at Venice, Cal., on June 13. He had joined the life saving crew at that place, and during the practice of the crew on the above date, his boat capsized, and he was drowned. He was born in St. Louis, Mo., on July ___, and had traveled with shows all over the world. He was known as one of the finest hurdle riders in American. James Hutchinson, of the Great Van Amburg Show, gave him a gold medal for his cleverness. Mr. Watson was married only a few years ago to Emma B. Parker, a non-professional, who survives him. He was a member of the Cortland Lodge No. __, B. P. O. Elks. The body was taken by his wife to Erie, Pa., where it was interred in the Erie Cemetery.
The Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus played Warren, Pa., July 1. It rained during the afternoon and throughout the night, and the circus did not get away to the next stand, Oil City, Pa., until half past seven in the morning. Some of the heavy wagons became stalled in mud up to the hubs, and it required twenty-four horses and several elephants to move the band wagon. This circus appears in Cleveland, July 8, and has everything in the city covered with paper.
"Punch" Wheeler has joined the Great Sells Show, for a long season South. This circus will visit old Mexico, show a month in Havana, and ten stands in Cuba, and then go to Panama, being the first circus of note to exhibit on the new canal. William Sells, the general director, has been organizing and framing up this enterprise for the past three months, and all is now complete. Charles B. Fredricks is the general agent, and the headquarters are in Kansas City.
The following are clowns with the Mighty Haag Show: Gail Boyd, principal; Bob Peasly, Mardello, Roy Fortune, "Whitey" Ashcroft, Ruth Killian and "Little Soup."
Col. Stanley Lewis, of Cole Brothers' Circus, drove his auto down from Pittsfield, Mass., Tuesday, July 2, and called on the Clipper. Col. Lewis reports turnaway business for the Cole Shows. The colonel wears the full uniform of his rank in the Arizona Rangers, and this, with his brilliantly painted motor car, made him the cynosure of all eyes along Broadway during his brief visit.
William Gilman, local contractor of Campbell Bros.' Shows, joined the advance at Minot, N.D., this making his third season with this show, doing the contracting and general press work ahead. Gilman is one of the old "flying squadron" of Wallace Show fame.
C. H. Andrews informs us that this is his second season with the Great Hargreaves Shows. He is now general contracting agent, having succeeded A. J. Dixon, who resigned.
New York Clipper, July 27, 1907, p. 619. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Cole Brothers Shows. The tour of the Cole Brothers' shows through the Eastern States has been one continuous triumph. That it has met with inprecedented success may be attributed to these facts, that it gives a performance of decided merit and makes such short jumps that its reputation spreads ahead of it. The performance given is new, so much so that many of the leading papers have declared it makes other circus performances look like vaudeville. At Worcester, Mass., in a drenching rainstorm, the tent was packed at both performances, while at Pittsfield, behind the Buffalo Bill show, crowds were turned away both afternoon and night. . . . Owner Martin J. Downs receives letters daily from towns the show has made, asking to be included in his yearly itinerary. "Doc" Ogden, manager of the annex, celebrated his birthday during the engagement of the show at Worcester. His wife and son came from Norfolk and assisted him. The attaches of the annex presented him with a handsome stick pin and an elegant silk umbrella. His wife presented him with a fine walking stick. Manager Downs had caterer Harry Cregg prepare a sumptious dinner, and a royal good time was had. William Mitchell, who is doing the press work back, is making a host of friends among the Eastern newspaper men. "Billy" has not only the faculty of making friends, but he has the gift of retaining them. During the temporary absence of Martin J. Downs, his son, James Downs, took charge, and showed conclusively that he possesses all the qualities of a successful showman. He, like his father, is an exacting disciplinarian, and will stand for nothing but perfect system. He is an untiring worker, and works side by side with his men. He appreciates the loyal worker and encourages him in the struggle up the ladder of success.
Roster of Campbell Bros.' Shows, advertising car No. 1: Al Lindley, car manager; Wm. Gillman, local contractor; Tobe Beer, boss bill poster . . . Roy Rosen, Wm. Lockard, Walter Rockwell, Frank Cunningham, Harry Wilson, Arthur Dryer, lithographer; Chas. Horton, banner man; Bert Arnold, steward.
Notes from the Oberfield Bros.' Circus and Vaudeville Show. This show started from Wheeling, W. Va., May _, having a sixty foot round top, with a forty middle piece, carrying twenty-five people, a band of eight pieces, under the direction of Gus ___. The show has been doing an extraordinary business, playing three night stands in Pennsylvania and Ohio. Prof. Hansen, with his troupe of educated dogs, commands a share of public approval. We have that marvelous high diving dog, "Whitie," that had the misfortune to get run over by one of our wagons, and is now laid up for repairs. The following is a list of the employees: aerial performers are the Aerial Oberfields (Harry and Lena), Johnson Family, the Flying Chambers, Murphy and Woods, barrel jumpers; Heagen, in contortion; Willie Oberfield and Conway, clowns; Geo. Conway, black face; Oliver Sisters, refined singing and dancing; Ed. Wolf, buck and wing dancer; Mrs. Finney, illustrated songs and dancing; Chas. Oberfield, manager; Harry Oberfield, treasurer; John Oberfield, business manager; J. O'Neill, advance; Wm. Brady Chambers, properties; Wm. Finney, boss canvas man; Geo. Conway, stage manager . . . Chas. Neuman, cook, and Jim Sandhill, candy butcher.
___ Potts, formerly general agent of Vogel's Minstrels, is acting as press agent of Capt. Riggs' Wild West, under the management of Paul ___, at Cedar Point, on Lake Erie. The show opened there for an engagement of two weeks June __, and proved such a success that the Cedar Point management re-engaged Capt. Riggs and his rough riders for the season.
Notes from the Al. F. Wheeler Show. Capt. H. Schneider, lion tamer, joined this show July 8. He is handling the untamable lion act, also his troupe of trained dogs in the ring. For the first time in our history we played a two day engagement at Tupper Lake, N.Y., giving four performances to packed tents the first day, while hundreds were turned away the second evening. We were obliged to close the ticket wagon at 7:30. Will T. Miller, manager of annex, took good care of the overflow, giving three shows in his department to the capacity of the tent.
Kid Koster is on the No. 2 advertising car of the Hagenbeck & Wallace Shows.
J. H. Hewitt is no longer connected with the Fashion Plate Shows, having closed on account of a severe illness. He is at his Scranton, Pa., home, on the road to recovery, and writes that he has signed with one of the "good ones" for 1907-08.
Notes from the Sells-Floto Shows. We have a very fine collection of clowns this season. Among them are: Frank Maynard . . . Del Fuego, Wm. Scott, Harry Clemings and Phil Darling.
New York Clipper, August 17, 1907, p. 698. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Cole Bros.' World Toured Shows. The youngest, but nevertheless on of the most capable and efficient circus managers in this country was created in Mt. Clements, Mich., on Aug. 5, when Martin J. Downs turned the managing of the Cole Brothers' World Toured Shows over to his son, James Downs. For three years he has very ably assisted his father in the show's management, and developed into a showman and manager of exceptionally rare ability. He, like his father, is a strict disciplinarian, and has the faculty of knowing what is to be done and when and how to do it. His promotion came to him on his birthday, and by him is considered the most valuable of the many tokens he received on that day. Martin J. Downs will still remain with the show, but futher than an occasional suggestion, will not dictated as to its management. He has all possilbe confidence in his son, who will beyond all question continue the show's course as adopted by his father at its conception. . . . Harry Clark, Jimmy Spriggs and Bert Fisher, all clowns with the show, winter in Toledo. When the show was there, the reception was tremendous. Harry Clark, the principal clown with the show, entertained thirty of the performers in his home. Thus far there has been no sickness, no expulsions, nor one cancellation among the Cole Brothers' performers. Harry Curtis, of Cole Bros.' advertising car No. 1, was entertained by a choice coterie of friends when in Peru. He formerly made Peru his starting point every year, and generally his finishing stand at the close of his seasons.
Notes from Ringling Bros.' advertising car. Owing to long runs, en route to the coast, the boys on car No. 3 have provided themselves with cooking utensils, and have selected Col. Chas. E. Knox as chief chef. The colonel is an expert in the culinary line, having served as chef in a whaling vessel, the good ship "Sue," for several years, and also enjoys the distinction of being one of the oldest bill posters in active service on the road, his age being sixty-two. . . . Manager Geo. Goodhart, Jerome Dieble, C. A. Bostwick, Wm. Mahler, Chas. ___, J. B. Smalley, Miles Edwards, John Thomas, Elmer ___, Nick Nary, Dave Condon, Ed. Wachter, John Wynn, Chas. Tiede, Will Hope, Col. Chas. Know, M. Nagle and ___, the last two as guests. . . .
Roster of advertising car No. 2, of the Hargreaves Show: G. H. Mathews, manager . . . bill posters: W. McCormack . . . and J. Hopkins; M. Taylor, in charge of lithos . . . W. Watson, cook . . .
Kid Koster, in advance of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show, will go in advance of Amelia Bingham this season.
Martin G. Milligan has closed on the No. 1 car of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show, and is now with the opposition brigade of the Forepaugh-Sells Shows.
Jas. A. Morrow, manager of the Sells-Floto side show, claims that as side show feature and drawing cards, Montana Jack's knife throwing act and Madame Layette's birds are the best he ever had, and they make good with any class of audience.
The Donan Drum and Fife Corps of New York, under the management of Ed. White, are enroute with Walter L. Main's Fashion Plate Show.
B. J. Layden, manager advance car No. 1, of the Great Fashion Plate Circus, closed his season July 20, at Rutland, Vt.
New York Clipper, August 24, 1907, p. 729. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
La Mont notes. La Mont Bros.' Shows opened at Salem, Ill., April 27, playing Central Illinois, Indiana and Ohio, to an extraordinarily good business, considering the very bad roads encountered the first few weeks we were out. Up to date, the banner business was done at Winimac, Ind., where the S. R. O. card was on display both afternoon and evening. Among the principal features with the show this season are: the McClains, aerial act; ___, fire king and slack wire; the Randolphs, aerial return and casting act; J. Doyle, barrel jumper; Dare Devil Johnson, ___ and slide for life; the Porterfields, flying rings and comedy juggling . . . Madame McLain and her troupe of educated canines; Chas. Baker, our principal clown, assisted by . . . Andy Anderson and others, never fails to put the necessary smile on the audience. . . . After a tour across Illinois and Indiana, the show entered Ohio at Hicksville, June 28. At South Charleston, the McLains met with an accident, during the afternoon performance, which resulted in a broken wrist for Mrs. McLain. While doing a double trapeze act Mrs. McLain fell from the trapeze and was carried from the ring. City physicians were called and the injury treated. After a few days in the doctor's care, she is again with the show and getting along nicely. Elmer Porterfield has the management of the annex, this being his fourth season . . .
Notes from E. G. Smith's Colossal Shows and Trained Animal Exposition. We are in our sixteenth week of record breaking business, over the same territory we played during the season of 1905. Our parade never fails to bring the people to the lot for the afternoon performance. We have, so far, never lost a night show, and but very few matinees, and what matinees we did were in the smaller mining camps in Pennsylvania. Everybody with the show is in the best of health, and our roster remains the same as at our opening, with the exception of Andy Thumper, who closed on account of ill health on July 7. Since then his place as singing and talking claown has been ably filled by E. G. Smith, who nightly convulses the audience with his mirth. Ray Dee, our wire performer, is making the hit of his ife, and he creates rounds of applause. This is Ray Dee's seventh consecutive season with this show. . . . The trained stock, under the careful eye of E. G. Smith, is working like a clock, and their various stunts are nightly done without a ___ or slip. We have encountered the very heaviest opposition this season, close up to all the big ones, but the "Little Giant" moves smoothly on, and no matter who is near we continue to play to standing room, and have so far registered six very heavy turn-aways. Roster: E. G. Smith, manager and owner; J. Ray Dee, assistant manager; Keller Iseminger, general agent; Chas. Dickey, leader of band, with five assistants; Alva Woodward, boss canvasman, with six assistants . . . Harry Guthrie, boss of ring stock, with two men . . . Mrs. E. G. Smith, charge of front door and treasurer . . .
Albert Gaston, the veteran singing and talking clown, joined the Al. F. Wheeler Shows July 29, this making his fifth consecutive season with the New Model. Mr. Gaston lays claim to being the oldest clown now in active service in America.
New York Clipper, September 14, 1907, p. 821. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Ed. Staats, who has been appointed advance agent for the John D'Alma's Dog and Pony Shows, writes: "We gave no show at Hillside Park, N.J., the evening of Aug. 16, owing to all of the company paying a visit to the Leon Washburn's Circus, which played in Passaic, N.J., Aug. 15 and 16. All seats were sold before 7:45 p.m. Before opening of the performance we were all invited by Mr. Washburn to join him at a dinner, which we enjoyed very much. Among those present were: L. Washburn, John D'Dalma and wife, Fred Darling, Mr. Brownie, manager of Washburn's Show; my wife and myself, and several others. I will be agent next season with J. D'Alma's Shows."
Fletcher Smith, for the past two seasons with the Frank A. Robbins Shows, joined Cole Bros.' World Toured Shows at North Adams, Aug. 4, and is meeting with success.
Jas. A. Welch and wife and Mr. and Mrs. Archie Maurville, of the Buffalo Bill Show, were entertained by Mr. and Mrs. Jake Seigfried, of the Bijou Theatre, Decatur, Ill., and all had an enjoyable time.
Notes from Ridgway, Pa. Several of the leading people with the Van Amburg Show, in town Aug. 21, were with the Younger and James Wild West Show when Lee Marshall, the cowboy rider, was killed by a bucking broncho at Dubois a few years ago. Marchall was buried the next day in the Pine Grove Cemetery, in Ridgway, and this morning several of the showmen who were his comrades, when he died, went up to visit his grave. Those who were with Mr. Marshall when he met his death were: Mrs. and Mrs. Chas. Fick, Thos. Tucker, Wm. Baird, J. Reyno and others. Mr. Fick picked Mr. Marshall up the day the horse fell on him, and Mr. Marshall died in Mrs. Marshall's arms. The show people were delighted to find Mr. Marshall's grave so well taken care of, and requested us to tender their thanks to the Ridgway people, who have been so kind to the memory of their dead comrade. After the afternoon performance the entire company marched to the cemetery, led by Prof. Wheeler's band. Memorial services were let by Al. Armer, followed by some very appropriate music by the band, closing with a prayer by Mr. Armer, and the decorating of the grave with flowers by the ladies, who placed several handsome floral decorations given by the members of the company.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. Our trip through New York State has been very pleasing, the financial returns being far ahead of any previous season. We have had no serious accidents, very little sickness, and nearly all the people who opened with the show, April 20, are still on the roll of honor. The outfit is moving like clockwork, always in and up on time, and very seldom leaves the lot later than 11:30, while the ring performance is giving the best of satisfaction everywhere. We will stay out until October. Business in the annex of this show has been very good, and from the remarks passed among the townfolks, we take it that we are more than "making good." Roster: Will T. Miller, manager of openings, magic, Punch and ventriloquist; Cleo, mental problem; City of Dreams, our new illusion; Madam Lenora, snake hypnotist; Mr. Dooley, the monkey with the human brain; Capt. Snyder's untamable lion act, and eleven cages of animals. Business staff: Al. F. Wheeler, owner and manager; Adam Gillespie, assistant manager; F. J. Frink, general agent; J. E. Pettit, in charge of second advance; Al. Fletcher, boss bill poster; George Wood, in charge of canvas; M. Murray, assistant; D. Q. Miller, boss hostler and master of transportation; Joe Tracy, in charge of ring stock; Jos. Wolf, charge of ponies; Frank Smith, boss property man; Gus Berry, chef; Will T. Miller, superintendent of annex; Ed. H. Bell, superintendent of privileges; Capt. Snider, in charge of menagerie.
La Rex is touring the Pacific coast with Ringling Bros., and is meeting with great success doing his aerial contortion act.
Major Keller, military juggler, last season with the Barnum & Bailey, is this season with Buffalo Bill's Wild West.
Clarence Brown, bandmaster, and wife (Josephine, aerialist), report very pleasant season with J. A. Jones' Enormous Shows.
Antonio Pubillones writes from Havana, under date of Aug. 21, as follows: "On Sunday, Aug. 18, in Guanajay I finished my summer season. The circus has had a run of ten months on the Isle of Cuba, having done a splendid business. The elephants that I bought from Thompson & Dundy, of the Hippodrome, New York, have been a wonderful success everywhere they appeared. They are engaged for Mexico, and next year for Europe. I commence my winter season here at the Payret Theatre (the largest on this island), Nov. 1, and on Dec. 1, at Gran Theatre Circus Yucateco, Merida, Mex., which has all been done over, and now has a beautiful glass roof. Jan. 1. I shall send another company to tour around the Isle of Cuba, and later on it will go to Panama and Central America. I already have a great many first class performers engaged, both from Europe and the United States."
Bob Cook is still with Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows, working in the concert and ticket seller.
New York Clipper, September 21, 1907, p. 842. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Josephine Forepaugh (Mrs. Ludwig Simmeth), at one time a well known circus performer, died on Sept. 6, at 1605 North Twenty-second Street, Philadelphia, aged fifty-seven years. She was the widow of Wm. R. Forepaugh, nephew of Adam Forepaugh Sr. She was known to the profession as Alice Napier and Alice Murdell. She was born in Lewisburg, Pa., in 1850, entered the profession when very young, and was married to the late Wm. R. (Bibb) Forepaugh, a nephew of the late Adam Forepaugh, in the early seventies. She toured Venezuela with a party of American performers and covered the United States, Canada and Mexico, having been connected with many theatres and circuses including: Fox's Theatre, Philadelphia; Walnut Street Theatre, Philadelphia, and the following shows: Montgomery Queen, Roston, Springer & Henderson, Adam Forepaugh, Ringling Bros., Orrin Bros., S. H. Barrett, Walter L. Main, Burr Robbins, Frank A. Robbins, John Shields and many others. Mrs. Simmeth was a very clever and fearless gymanst. She is survived by three daughters, two sons, two grandchildren, five sisters and her husband, Ludwig Simmeth. The remains were interred in West Laurel Hill Cemetery, Philadelphia, Tuesday, Sept. 10.
Albert Crandall, a circus performer, with Forpaugh & Sells Bros.' Shows, died Aug. 30, at his home in New Albany, Ind. For several months he had been in poor health from the effects of a stroke of paralysis, and was seized, Aug. 30, with a second stroke, from which he died a few hours later. Mr. Crandall was thirty-four years of age, and besides his wife, is survived by two small children. He was an Elk, and belonged to the Guthrie, Okla. Lodge.
New York Clipper, September 28, 1907, 864. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Note from the Fashion Plate Circus. It has been very few days this season that this show has been without rain and cold weather, but we have not missed an afternoon performance and only one night. For the last two weeks it has rained every day, and the lots have been flooded.
William Lucifer writes: ". . . we have been doing the one and two day stands in this ancient land of the Aztecs and habitation of the bullfighter and the manana Mexicano. Although right next door to our great American republic, this little sister republic is about as idealistically remote to the average vaudeville and circus actor or manager as the interior of China, so, while in the mood, I though some of your readers might find interest in a few pointers on this Eldorado, from a sawdust pounder's point of view. We are 'trouping out' with the Grand Circo Bell, and since taking to the road from our Mexico City season, April __, we have done twenty weeks and thirty-six stands through Southern Mexico from the city of ___, opposite El Paso, doubling back to Salamanca, a distance of over 1,000 miles. We played seven stands through the richest mining district of Mexico, over mountains, where we did the freeze-out to a finish in mid-Summer, and had to take three inhales to blow out one breath, but despite the cold weather and heavy rain which we had in plenty, business was good. Deick Bell informed me that the show left Mexico City one month earlier than ever before, played over their annual route, therefore arrived back in that district one month ahead of time, or just in time to catch the cold and rainy season right at its height. But he says he is not going to do it anymore. We had two weeks more of like conditions to face, so with universal satisfaction, Mr. Bell concluded to lay off for fifteen days to repaint and organize for the Fall and Winter season North and to the coast, where all is sunshine. The following remained over for the Fall and Winter season, and are now taking advantage of our short rest, visiting the many sights of historical interest in and around the old Mexican capital: James Barton, of dog circus fame; Madame Sheil and her lions, Mons. ___, the Three Lucifers, the Aerial McGinnleys, Dericks Bros., Amelie Feeley, ___, and the Bell Family of twenty-seven members. Several new turns will arrive by the next steamer to replace the following that left for their homes: Aldo and Venerson, for New York; Miss Raymond, New York . . . Truman, New York. Hotel accommodations in towns of ___ inhabitants or more are good, running from $2, Mexican ($1 American currency), to $3 Mexican; also cleanliness and sanitory conditions are up-to-date. . . . Ricardo Bell is a genial, whole souled fellow, and if he doesn't understand the wants of the Mexican public after thirty years' experience, it would be hard to find any one who does."
Prof. Perrino writes: "Have closed with Hunt's Show, to open with Walter L. Main's New Fashion Plate Shows as a special feature, with my black African lion, Prince, for the side show and concert."
Art Adair, principal clown and comedian with Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows, informs us that he has been booked up till April 1 in vaudeville by Jake Sternad, of the Western Vaudeville Association, to do his eccentric musical specialty.
Wm. Delly, manager Gollmar Bros.' advertising car No. 1, had a very pleasant surprise on his birthday anniversary by being presented with a very fine Eagle's watch charm by the men on the car.
Forepaugh-Sells notes: Al. Ringling joined us Sept. 8 to re-engage some of the acts for next season. He was with the show for almost one week. Oscar Lawrence, the well known rider, takes out his own small circus next season. The St. Louis troupe of acrobats have signed a long contract with Fred Thompson for his new production. Their contract calls for Dec. 2.
Notes from the Silver Family Shows (Bert Silver, manager). We closed our circus season Sept. 4 at our new headquarters, Crystal, Mich., where we own the Grove House and grounds of eleven acres on the bank of Crystal Lake, the finest summer resort in Michigan. This has been our banner season. We have not lost a performance or had one accident. Our tent has been too small to accommodate to crowds. We closed with the same show we opened with. Mont Peters left for Chicago; Canfield and Van Horn for Belding, Mich.; De Golda, our clown, for Detroit; Bert Parkes, comedian, went to St. Johns, and other members went to their homes. A number have been signed for next season. Business has been very satisfactory to the management. The Silver Family, Swiss bell ringers, of eight Silvers, will open the opera house season in October. We will carry twelve people, band and orchestra, and are booked in the best territory in Michigan. The show will be all newly painted and fitted with new canvas, 70x100. We carry thirty people, eighteen horses, eight wagons and cars, two advance rigs, and the show will not be enlarged.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. We are now in our twenty-third week . . . The roster is: Al. F. Wheeler, owner and manager; Adam Gillespie, assistant manager; F. J. Frink, general agent; J. E. Pettit, in charge of second and opposition brigades; Al. Fletcher, boss bill poster; Wm. La Rose, banners and programmes; George Wood, superintendent of canvas, and M. Murray his assistant; D. O. Miller, superintendent of stock, assisted by Jas. Gallagher; Joe Tracy, in charge of ring stock; Jos. ___, in charge of ponies; Frank Smith, boss property man; Capt. Snider, superintendent of menagerie, and Gus Berry, chef. Adam Gillespie has the big show band of fourteen pieces, and the Gorman Family Band is featured in the parade and concert. The performers include: Curvin Zech; Major Cailloutte, unicycle wire act; Zech and Zech, aerialists; Harry Hillman, principal and four horse rider, and Wm. Trout, hurdle mule, and Pete Jenkins, Capt. Snider and his troupe of dogs. The cake-walking horse, "Don," is ridden by Rose Hillman. Albert Gaston is the principal clown, together with the following fun makers: Al. F. Wheeler Jr., Blink Trout and Harry Bell, Wheeler's troupe of horses, mules and ponies, and the modern arenic spectacle, "The Queen of Nations." The concert is exceptionally strong, and introduces the following people: Gorman Family, Bell and Alger, Albert Gaston with Al. F. Wheeler Jr., and Artie Myers. Will T. Miller is superintendent of annex, with the following attractions: Cleo, mental problem; Madam Lenora, snake hypnotist; the beautiful illusion, "City of Dreams"; Mr. Doolley, missing link; Capt. Snider, untamable lion act, and eleven cages of animals. Ed. H. Bell has the privileges, and has done immense business in his department. . . . We will close about Oct. 1, and immediately commence preparations for enlarging and improving the show for next season, it being Mr. Wheeler's intentions to make this the largest and finest wagon show in the East, season of 1908.
New York Clipper, October 5, 1907, p. 895. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Billy Reid, the singing and talking clown, is now in his forty-fourth week with the John H. Sparks Show.
The baseball team made up of members of the John Robinson Circus played a game at Hoopestown, Ill., Sunday, Sept. __, against the Forepaugh-Sells team at ___ Park, where a large number of the employees of both shows were present. The game was stubbornly contested, and it required twelve innings to decide it, the Robinsons winning finally by a score of seven to five.
Clint Francis, general contractor of Walter L. Main's Great Fashion Plate Shows, closed his season of twenty-two weeks on Sept. 16, and has been re-engaged for next season.
Fred De Ivey has returned to the Mighty Haag Shows, after a much needed rest, and resumed his duties as chief orator, lecturer and annex ticket seller, with the following "grinders": Bill Taylor, Chas. Long, George Almont and Henry Emgard.
Roster of the clowns with the Campbell Bros.' Shows: Raleigh Wilson, principal; W. E. Donohue, Wilford David, "Snapper" Garrison, Win. Wallace, Chas. Barnett, Steele Bros. and Jesse Roberts. Business is reported to be excellent, and the show is giving satisfaction.
New York Clipper, October 12, 1907, p. 937. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Jim Rutherford, equestrian director, and the Munroe Sisters, musical act, concluded their season with the Walter L. Main Shows on Friday, Sept. 13. They were immediately engaged by the Buffalo Bill Shows for the remainder of the season, and are now with that show.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. We closed a highly successful season of twenty-four weeks, at Pittsford, N.Y., Sept. 28, and went into winter quarters at Marion, N.Y. Should Mr. Wheeler decide to retain his outfit it will be greatly enlarged and improved for the season of 1908. Capt. ?. Snider will be in charge of the ring barn, and will devote the entire winter to breaking in new trained animal acts.
Otto Johnson has been engaged as director of band with Clark Bros.' Combined Shows, now reorganizing at Meridian, Miss.
Chas. Park Jr., who has closed his second season in advance of Barnum & Bailey Circus, is resting in the wilds of Pennsylvania.
Jas. A. Morrow, manager of side show and chief orator with Sells-Floto Circus, has resigned, and at present is located at Vendome Theatre, Ft. Worth, Tex., assisting Geo. Johnson launch his new spectacular production, "Constantinople."
Notes from the Hippodrome Shows, under Victor Lee's management. We closed a most satisfactory season at Weston, Mo., Sept. 21. Every member of the Hippodrome crack drill and fast marching band has signed for next year. The ___ Bros. and Flying Hawk, aerial and horizontal bar experts, have been re-engaged for next season. Eddie Boyce will again have charge of the advance. The show has gone into winter quarters, with a good, big balance on the right side of the ledger, and will go out again in the Spring with the same big band and another corking good show.
The Freed & Perrin Show notes. We closed our season of twnety weeks Sept. __, and are in winter quarters, at Eaton Rapids, Mich. The show opens the season of 1908 early in May, and will be larger and better in every way. Mr. Freed will spend the winter at his home at Niles, Mich.
Elmer Hobby, an old time circus man, died at his home in Brookfield Junction, Conn., on Sept. 21, aged seventy years. When P. T. Barnum's Circus traveled about the country in wagons, Mr. Hobby had charge of the transportation of the show. He was noted as a driver of eight and sixteen horse teams.
New York Clipper, November 9, 1907, p. 1045. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Norris & Rowe's Circus. We showed at Santa Fe 24. We gave no parade on account of our late arrival. A heavy rain storm occurred the night previous, but the sun shone brightly next morning, and the lot was pretty well dried out when the show arrived. The afternoon show was well attended, and before the performance was concluded in the afternoon the rain soaked through, but a good programme was well executed, despite the unpropitious weather conditions. Frank Miller, equestrian director, showed the material to good advantage, and we held the crowds until the conclusion of the performance. The night was very cool and damp, and the attendance not so large as the afternoon show. Manager H. S. Rowe sent the people to a hotel for breakfast, but other meals were as usual. Our main top is one hundred and fifty feet, three fifty foot middle pieces; menagerie, eighty feet, four thirty foot middle pieces. The menagerie contains many fine specimens. Before the arrival of the show a lioness died, and a taxidermist will mount the skin. J. H. Fitzpatrick is general press representative with the show, and makes many friends. Walter Shannon is handling the annex show to good advantage. Roster of advance excursion car No. 3: Josh Billings, car manager; Henry ___, Frank Harris, A. A. Jones, Guy ___, Arthur Morrison, Geo. Finkham, Harry Bradley and Nick Jones, billposters . . . Tom Lawton, cook.
The Andells, Herculean gymnasts, write that they have enjoyed a very successful season with the Forepaugh & Sells Show. They are presenting one of the strongest acts of its kind.
Wm. Delly, after closing his fourth season as manager of Gollmar Bros.' advertising car No. 1, has resumed his old position as advertising agent at the Crawford Theatre, Leavenworth, Kan., this making his fourth season with manager Cunningham.
Notes from E. G. Smith's Colossal Shows and Trained Animal Exposition. "The Little Giant" closed its twelfth consecutive season on Saturday, Oct. 5, and the train of wagons started for winter quarters early Sunday morning, Oct. 6. After a forty mile haul, we landed at our winter home Oct. 7, and by night all the stock was safely housed, and tents and outfit stored for the winter. Part of the working crew was kept for a week washing wagons and harness, and everything was stored in fine shape. The draught stock will be looked after this winter by boss hostler Dan Lambert, and the ring stock is in Joe Joe ___'s care. The show played a season of twenty-five weeks, and did not lose a night performance, a record very few wagon shows can boast of. There was not one accident, and we were never late with our parade. This speaks well for our draught and rolling equipment. This has been our most pleasant season socially, artistically and financially. All professional brethren that visited us were astonished at our growth and at our unusual fine layout. Mr. Smith, proprietor and manager, is away on a hunting trip to Canada, and during his absence things are in charge of Dan Lambert at winter quarters. The "main ___" left us under the impression that when he went on his hunting trip, things would hum when he returns, and that the season of 1908 will see the show greatly enlarged in all departments.
New York Clipper, November 16, 1907, p. 1082. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Chas. Fick, general agent of the Great Van Amburg Show, writes: "A few lines telling how business and conditions are in the South as I find them. The cotton crop is good, and the average crop everywhere is about the same. Cotton sold here (Greenwood, Miss.) on the street the other day at twenty-five cents a pound, making a bale of 500 pounds bring $125, a good price for cotton. The average price here is fifteen cents. Everybody has money here. The circuses are all doing well. They are just beginning to get into the South. Theatrical companies are not doing as well. The railroad rates are so high it takes all the profits. The five cent moving picture shows you find in every small town are hurting the theatrical business also. The only theatrical shows that will do anything here this winter are a few of the big ones. Until the railroad rate question is settled, the South will be bad for managers, unless they want go give it all to the railroad companies. I have had to refuse several offers for the winter season, as the Great Van Amburg Show, with which this is my second season as agent ahead, will make a long season, and will not be at liberty before Dec. 1, when I expect to close a contract with one of the new attractions, leaving New York after the holidays."
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. We are now comfortably located in our new and commodious winter quarters at Marion, Wayne Co., N.Y., where preparations are already under way for enlarging and ___ the show for the season of 1908. It is Mr. Wheeler's intentions to make this the largest and best wagon show on the road next summer. New and larger tents will be used, and menagerie greatly augmented, and many new trained animal acts will be introduced.
New York Clipper, November 23, 1907, pp. 1110, 1111. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Ellet Trio (Chas., Lizzie and Walter) are in their thirty-eighth week with the John H. Sparks Shows, and are booked up solid for 1908 and 1909. Their act is meeting with great success in the South, they inform us.
Frank, "The Broom King," and wife, are spending the winter at their home in Lawrence, Mass.
Miles Jordan, comedian and clown, who recently closed with Cole Bros.' Circus, at Hugo, I. T., is now with M. L. Clark's Shows as talking and singing clown.
Mrs. Frances L. Ashe, wife of Wm. R. Ashe, the old time circus clown, and mother of the Ashton Troupe of acrobats, died on Nov. 10, at Toledo, O.
New York Clipper, December 7, 1907, p. 1168. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Howard Bonheur, manager of Bonheur Bros.' Golden Mascot Dog and Pony Shows, was severely injured in a gas explosion at Belleville, Tex., Saturday, Nov. __. His assistant gas maker, Yates Bailey, was almost as badly hurt, and his life was despaired of for a time. Both men are improving, but will carry scars to their grave. The noise of the explosion was heard as far as ___, seven miles from the spot where it occurred. It was a close call from sudden death, and everyone with the show is thankful that it was no worse.
Sun Brothers' Shows. . . . This is the thirty-third week of the season, and during that period of time the show has not received on adverse press criticism. The show made the following States during the past summer: Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia. . . . There seems to be a slight shortage of money in some of the Southern States, however Georgia seem to be all right, and all of the tented shows, and majority of the theatrical attractions, seem to make "both ends meet." The Sun Show is now in Florida, the land of flowers and perpetual sunshine. In this territory the show is well known, has an established reputation, and indications point to a prosperous tour. The season will extend long into January, 1908. The show then goes direct to its palatial permanent home and winter quarters at Central City Park, Macon, Ga. . . . The show will remain the same size for the next season, but the policy will be to make it more attractive in appearance, with the introduction of more meritorious features and ideas. The elimination altogether of giving free street parades two years ago, continues in force, and will again be in vogue next season. The crowds on the lots for the morning free shows this season are the largest in the history of the show, and the annex department does capacity business every morning. For next season the show will have as its special free attraction, Prof. Alton Marcelle's air ship, and it is the intention of the management to give two of these free aerial navigation displays each day. Among the people of the present organization, the following have signed for next season: . . . Mr. and Mrs. Walter Ashborne, Michael Cahill, Francis J. Boyle and company (four people), Mr. and Mrs. Jack Young, Eddie Vernell and Frederick Wright. Wm. Dale, principal equestrian and amusement director, and Charles Gorlach, bandmaster, are also re-engaged. D. Gillispie is re-engaged for the season of 1908, to again manage the side show. . . . His wife, Mme. Gillispie, the new "Century Myustic Marvel," will be featured in a new and extraordinary mental performance. . . . Bandmaster Gerlach will also add materially to his party next season by increasing the number of men to twenty-five. . . . the show has not omitted any night performance in the Southern States. It has also "made" all of its Saturday night moves in the State of Georgia on time, leaving at the scheduled hour, 11 p.m. The Georgia laws stipulate that no freight trains shall move from a given point after 11 p.m. on Saturday night and during Sunday. The advance forces are doing splendid work under the guidance of Peter Sun, who is assisted by M. Burgower, contracting agent; Charles Griffin, advance car manager; J. L. Springer, special agent, and a full complement of first class bill posters, lithographers and general advertisers, with Bert Moore as boss bill poster.
Chas. Hoffman died on Nov. __, at the Boston City Hospital, Boston, Mass., form locomotor ataxia. He had been ill some time from kidney trouble, and his death was not a surprise. He was forty-six years old, and entered the show business as a bill poster at the age of fourteen. He was connected with Welch & Sands Circus, Batchelder & Doris Interocean Circus, Forepaugh's and Barnum & Bailey's with the advance brigades, and later went with Walter L. Main, Lillian Kennedy, Kittie Rhodes Co., Howarth's Hibernica and ___. He also managed two or three houses. Mr. Hoffman was taken ill while with Mrs. Washburn's "Uncle Tom's Cabin" Co. He was cared for by the Actor's Fund for the past two months. The body was shipped to Ashland, Pa., for burial in the family plot. He is survived by his mother, sister, wife (who is professionally known as Kittie Hoffman) and a son.
1908
New York Clipper, January 11, 1908, p. 1282. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The following is a list of the superintendents in charge of working departments of the Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth for the season of 1908: John McLaughlin, in charge of trains; John H. Snellen, in charge of canvas; Thomas Lynch, in charge of baggage stock; John Eberlee, in charge of flying squadron and general assistant; Harlan Hall, in charge of side show canvas; Dan Taylor, master mechanic; Paul Damschke, in charge of lights; H. L. Kelly, in charge of animals; H. J. Mooney, in charge of elephants; Arnold Graves, in charge of properties; S. W. Elliott, in charge of ring stock; Bert Wallace, in charge of wardrobe; Edward Schaeffer, head porter. The show will open in Madison Square Garden, New York, about March 18, for the usual period of nearly five weeks. At the close of the New York engagement a tour of the States will immediately begin under canvas, and a magnificent free street parade will inaugurate its daily appearance.
Notes from Loudon & Tuttle's Wagon Show. Harry Germaine, agent for the show, informs us that the season just closed has been the most successful of this show, business having been at top notch through Pennsylvania and West Virginia. The show opened at Greenville, Pa., May 4, and closed at Hillsboro, Va., Dec. 14. Everything is business-like at winter quarters, with everybody busy repairing harness, wagons, etc., getting in readiness for our opening in April. The weather here is fine, and all are well. We will sit down to an old fashioned Christmas dinner.
Norris & Rowe notes. Some months ago Norris & Rowe entered into an agreement with Varney & Green, the millionaire advertising firm and theatre owners of the Pacific coast, for the erection of a big hippodrome in the centre of San Francisco. This building is now completed and is 400x200 feet in size, by 70 feet in height. It is the finest and largest edifice devoted exclusively to amusements West of Chicago. The opening date is set for Saturday, Jan. 11, and it is the intention of Norris & Rowe to present the biggest and best acts to be found in the world. In conjunction with a three ring circus, they will present ballets, water carnivals, a congress of nations, and other big spectacular productions. The undertaking is the most pretentious ever attempted by these progressive showmen, and the success of the venture will be watched with interest by showmen everywhere. The programmes will be changed from time to time as occasion and business demands, and many novel features will be in readiness for production at all times. This venture will in no way interfere with the regular circus season of Norris & Rowe, which will be inaugurated in March, as usual. Scores of blacksmiths, wood workers, painters and other mechanics are busily engaged at the splendid winter quarters at Santa Cruz, and the circus will go out larger and better than ever before. Many animals will be added to the menagerie. Mr. Rowe, the general manager, devotes most of his time to the preparations of the opening of their new hippodrome, but finds time for an occasional visit to his winter quarters.
The managers of the Barnum & Bailey advertising cars for the season of 1908 will be as follows: car No. 1, Harry Graham; car No. 2, J. Benzinger; car No. 3, John Harper. W. C. St. Clair will be special agent.
Geo. V. Connor, manager of privileges with the Buffalo Bill Wild West Show, has been in New York the past week transacting business for the coming season.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. While many tent show managers are unsing the present financial depression as an excuse for retrenchment, the order of the day with the "New Model" will be enlargement and improvement in every department for the coming 1908 tour. New and larger tents will be used, the menagerie will be greatly augmented, and many new parade and ring features will be added. Two bands will be carried, and it is Mr. Wheeler's intentions to present a performance second to none. Capt. H. Snider, who is in charge of our winter quarters at Marion, N.Y., is busy breaking in several new trained wild animal acts which will be entirely different from anything ever before presented; while Mr. Niffin has proved himself a past master in the art of horse training. Our pony department was last week increased by the arrival of two diminutive Shetland pony colts, and a mealy-nosed, long-eared jackass. George Wood is re-engaged as boss cavasman, his fifth season; F. J. Frick will again be general agent, his fourth consecutive season with the New Model. His is at present managing the "Old Farmer Hopkins" Co., which is enjoying a very prosperous tour through the Middle and New England States. . . .
James Shelby Show notes. . . . The roster of the show is: Master Jas. Shelby (Ogden), Mr. and Mrs. Chas. J. Ogden and E. D. Hardy, proprietors and managers; W. Chapman, business manager; Chas. La Bird, equestrian director; Taylor Willis, ticket seller; W. H. Ashdown, charge of advance; Geo. Clark, boss canvasman, and Gene Keystone, boss hostler. The acts in the big show are: G. W. Powell, singing and talking clown; Mrs. Davene, single traps; Alfton, head balancing, traps and wire; Ella and Iza La Bird, contortionists; the La Bird Family, comedy equilibrists; Alfton and Davene, double traps; Chas. La Bird, hand balancing act; Davene and Powell, contortion acts; Taylor Willis and his trick pony, La Bird and Powell's comedy act entitles "Fritzie's Barber Shop," and the La Bird-Davene Troupe (six in number) Roman ladder act. Prof. Loagnecker's Concert Band furnishes the musical numbers. This makes one of the strongest programs ever offered by a show of this size.
New York Clipper, January 18, 1908, pp. 1319, 1320. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Del and Lulu Fuego have signed for next season with the Van Amburg Show. They are wintering in Jacksonville, Fla.
Notes from the Sun Brothers. Notes from the Sun Brothers. The Sun Brothers' Greater Progressive Shows finished their season at Adel, Ga., Jan. 7. Business at both closing performances was good, and ideal weather prevailed. Messrs. Mugivan, Bowers, ___, Brown, of the Van Amburg managerial astaff, were special guests of the management at Adel. After the night performance all of the help were paid in full, and then the show was shipped direct to Macon, Ga. . . . Central City Park was all in radiness for the reception of the show, and all was placed away without any delays. During the past summer many notable improvements have been made at this ideal park, including the addition of three new brick buildings and five new stable buildings. A great many of the people connected with the show will remain in Macon during the winter layoff. The La Pasque Troupe, Francis J. ___ and company, and William O'Dale are among the big acts that will practice here all winter. . . . Charles Gerlach, bandmaster; D. Gillespie, annex and privilege manager; Clinton Newton, official representataive, and Wm. O'Dale equestrian director, are re-engaged for the coming tour. Among the acts booked are the following: the Avalon Troupe, the La Pasque Troupe and Linsley Trio (Walter Linsley, manager); Francis J. Doyle and company, Harvey and Adams, ?. Kirke, Adams and company, Fred Kenne, Clorine Wenzell, Theo. Arthur, Fred Wright, Jack and Belle Young, Eddie Vernello . . .
Notes from the Greater Norris & Rowe Circus and Hippodrome. Among the performers engaged for the Greater Norris Rowe Circus and Hippodrome, opened in the city of San Francisco, Saturday, Jan. 11, are the Peerless Potters . . . Horace Webb . . . Toto Ducrow, William Scott, Mickey Feeley . . . Henry Reynolds, clown and pantominist; McDonald Family . . . George Holland, Frank Miller, Dave Castello . . . the Four Perrys, wire walkers; Orion Family, and a number of other performers. . . . Two rings and an elevated stage will be used. Races of all kinds will be presented on the large hippodrome track. The Greater Norris & Rowe Circus, which will be a thirty car show the coming season, will take the road early in March, and will in no way interfere or ___ with their permanent hippodrome.
Notes from Lee and Ella Le Vant's Big Modern Shows. We have just closed a very prosperous season of thirty weeks. Show did not play one losing stand the entire season and left the best of reputation in every place visited. The Le Vants are now at their home, Thompsonville, Mich., preparing for the coming summer season. Orders have already been given to the Murray Co., of Chicago, for entire new waterproof tents, and a number of new acts have already signed for the summer season.
Harry Overton, widely known as a circus agent and superintendent, is this season managing the Majestic Theatre, the leading playhouse of Findlay, O., for the National Amusement Co., of New York.
William Van Dee, an acrobat and clown, while despondent because of financial troubles, drank some wood alcohol on Jan. _, and died shortly afterward in the Grady Hospital, Atlanta, Ga. During his life he had been connected as a clown with all the larger circuses in the country. During the past two years he had been with the Van Amburg Shows. He was about forty-five years of age.
New York Clipper, February 1, 1908, p. 1361. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Cole Brothers' Show notes. There are no idle ones around the Cole Brothers' Show's winter quarters at Harbor Creek, Erie County, Pennsylvania. General agent Ed. Knupp arrived Jan. 2 after an extended territorial trip, and two days later railroad contractor Harry Potter put in an appearance. On Jan. _, manager Downs called together the executive staff, and what little preliminary business remained unfinished was taken up and quickly disposed of. Three stenographers and type writers are busy in the general office, and the holidays' accumulation of mail is being answered as speedily as possible. All contracts for an entirely new line of paper has been placed, and one of the largest tent makers in the business is busy building a while new layout of tents for the 1908 season. . . . There will be few changes in the executive staff during the coming season. Ed. C. Knupp will again direct the advance and James Downs will be manager, while Martin J. Downs will be general director. In the advance Mr. Knupp has retained with two exceptions the same force that was with him last season and back with the show there will no material change in the heads of departments. Just at present a force of fifty skilled mechanics are busy in the repair shops and builders' department. . . . in the builders' and assemblers' department six new lot wagons, six cages and two huge animal dens are almost ready for the painters and decorators. The ring barn is much in use and several equestrians have, even at this early date, commenced practice and the perfection of new acts. . . . Prof. Charles Tinney will again direct the big band of thirty-six pieces.
The Rippel Show is in winter quarters at Franfort, Ind., and at present writing we are enlarging for the coming season. We will have a new band wagon and four new cages. Will use ninety foot top, with two forty foot middles . . .. We have engaged about half of last year's people and will make a lot of changes in the make-up of the show. We are on our eighth year of success and the show is getting larger every season, but we are not packing them in and turning them away. We have every newspaper with us wherever we have made a stand in eight years. There has never been a fight on our show lot, something no other show can boast of. The roster: Frank Lewis will have the advance; Lige Smart, boss hostler; Chas. Thatcher, chief of cook house; Dell Allen, clown and trick mule; Miss Leon, slack wire and perch; Chas. Rippel Jr., contortionist and Roman rings; Will ___, Jim ___, Con Murphy and Harry Terrel, musicians; Walter Crocket, high wire and revolving ladder; Ella Martin, juggler; the Great Mendon, equilibrist and traps; Dick Martin, ventriloquist and marionettes; Ape Thorpe, boss animal man, and Happy Kilgore, boss canvas man. Show will open about April 25.
Ed. E. White, manager, and Samuel ___, president of the Dorian Fife, Drum and Bugle Corps, are now located at the Academy of Music, New York City, after finishing a successful season with Walter L. Main's Great Fashion Plate Shows.
George Taylor, trombone soloist, has been re-engaged for his fifth consecutive season with the New Model Band, with Al. F. Wheeler's Shows.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. The show will be greatly enlarged and improved for next season, and will start out with an entirely new spread of canvas. Ed. Bell will again have the privileges (his fifth consecutive season), and will have as his first assistant his son Harry, who will have charge of the outside stands. ___, our popular ched, is also re-engaged for his fourth season. Gus knows how to serve the "good things," and ne assures that this year the "New Model Hotel" will be second to none on the road. Mr. Wheeler and assistant manager Adam Gillespie are at present on a business trip through the East, but will shortly return to winter quarters to get everything in ship-shape for an early opening.
Notes from E. G. Smith's Colossal Show and Trained Animal Exposition. . . . Two new parade wagons have been built, and the old ones all repaired and repainted. A new and massive band wagon has been added, and a new two-horse advance wagon is nearing completion. Out parade this season will be a thing of dazzling splendor. Our parade wagons are in red, white and gold, all having sunburst wheels, and the draft stock will have new brass mounted harness, trimmed with red patent leather. Horses and ponies will be elegantly trapped and plumed, and our parade, though small, will compare with the best in the land, each and every wagon being handsomely carved and decorated with mirrors. Our draft stock in wintering finely and two new teams will take the place of two that were sold at the close of last season. Boss hostler Dan Lambert says he will have his pets in the best of trim for our opening. The ring stock is being worked daily for exercise, and they enjoy their daily outing. Mr. Smith, our manager, returned from ___, O., Jan. 11, and brings the news that he purchased a new home for his shows. This farm is located midway between Alliance adn Ravenna, O., at Atwater Station, and next summer a new ring barn, paint and blacksmith shops will be built. Mr. Smith can truthfully say that he has one of the best farms in that section, and a fine home for his ___. Levi Siddel is in charge of the farm, and says he will have the large barn filled for us when we arrive in the Fall of 1908. People engaged so far are: Keller Iseminger, general agent; J. Ray Dee, assistant manager; Al. Raymond, clown . . . Chas. Dickey, leader of ban; Ed. and Nellie Thires, Dan Lambert, Alva Woodward . . .
New York Clipper, February 8, 1908, p. 1400. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Harry C. Fenton, manager of the Royal troupe of Cinghlese dancers, has booked the troupe for the season of 1908 with the Barnum & Bailey Circus. Mr. Fenton will work on the front door.
Ted Hill, "King of Calliope Players," is the pianist at the Olympic Theatre, Kansas City, Mo. He will join the Campbell Bros. Shows in April, making his third season with that show.
Notes from the Great Wagner Show. This show was formerly owned by the Wagner Bros., and was bought by Jolly Jenaro, the clown. For many years he was connected with the leading circuses, and next season will take out his own show, calling it the Great Wagner Show. All the people are engaged for the season, and everyone is busy 'round the quarters getting everything in shape. Mr. Jenaro was last week in Chicago, purchasing new tents, etc. We will have one of the swellest lay-outs in the business. We will take the old route, playing Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana.
Harry Wentworth just arrived here from Vera Cruz, Mex., to engaged people for the Circo Pubillones. Walter English, former leader of the Barnum & Bailey Band, will resume his position as bass player and mail agent with the same show. Arthur Groves, boss property man, leaves for Bridgeport, Conn., Monday, Feb. _. Mr. Wentworth reports having encountered a terrific storm at sea, lasting from Thursday night to Saturday morning. The captain lost control of ship, which steered forty miles toward the Bermuda Islands. All hands were glad when they set foot on solid ground again. Mr. Wentworth informed as that the ciracus is meeting with great success. The Silbon-Siegrist Troupe will shortly arrive in New York, to open with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, March 18.
Wm. Trout, equestrian and hurdle rider, is re-engaged with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows for next season.
New York Clipper, February 15, 1908, pp. 1423, 1424. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Following are the heads of departments for Miller Bros.' "101 Ranch - The Real Wild West Show" for season of 1908: George Arlington, general manager; H. G. Wilson, manager of privileges; W. C. Thompson, general press representative; Fred Bockman, general agent; Wm. J. Lynd, cook tent people. Edward Arlington is in charge of the New York office.
Billy Reid has been engaged for the John H. Sparks Show, as principal singing, talking and knockabout clown, for next season, this making his second season with the show.
Wm. Lucifer, of the Three Lucifers, writes from Mexico City, Mex., under date of Jan. 28, as follows: "While the circus world in the States is peacefully sleeping in its winter quarters, or preparing for the first note of the bluebird, a merry circus war is being fought out in this Southern republic that would make some of the 'old timers' sit up and think. The Pubillones Circus, of Cuba fame, in Puchia, heading this way; Travino and Dr. Carver, at Auguas, ___; Cardova's Circo, on the field, and the Grand Circo Bell and his company, with the entire Siegrest & Silbon Circus specially engaged, playing a veritable Madison Square Garden run at the Teatro Circo Orrin Building, this city. The show opened in the building Saturday, Jan. 11, to thousands turned away, and are now in their third week, to nightly packed houses, with the following list of performers: Seigrist and Silbon Aerial Troupe, of nine members; the Meers Sisters, Billy Melrose, ___ Ryan and ___, the Lea Sisters, Geo. Brown and dogs, the Bannocks, Johnnie Adams and Miss Bowman, all under the direction of Toto Seigrest, and specially engaged for the Mexico City season by mr. Bell. Mr. Bell's list: the Bottomleys Four, casting act; James Burton and dogs, the Three Lucifers, the De Kock Trio, ___, Miss Schell . . . Holman Bros., bars . . . Paul Braschard, Estrado . . . Amelia Fealy and the Bell Family. Ricardo Bell celebrated his fiftieth birthday Jan. 22, by taking his entire company, after the evening performance, to his palatial city residence, where something was doing in the eating and drinking line until morning. Ricardo Bell was voted the 'prince of directors' as Toto Siegrist, in an able speech, backed by all, put it."
The O'Brien Troupe of acrobats, six in number; Mme. Saldini and her tourpe of eight performing lions and tigers; F. J. Roger's troupe of Spitz dogs, ponies and mules; Maud Burbank, equestrienne; Bert Wiggins, singing clown; Chas. ___, cowboy; Mabel Hackney, "Queen of the Plains," and the Tompkins troupe of wild West riders, are among the latest engagements of the Mackay European Circus for the coming season, opening early in May, at Detroit, Mich. ___, the human cannon ball, who is shot from a regulation brass sixteen ___ cannon, will be the feature act.
Rev. Joel Sanders Davidson, a Baptist minister, who was formerly a circus clown, died in South Nashville, Tenn., on Feb. 2. He was born in Appomattox, Va., on the farm on which General Lee surrendered. Going to Nashville in 1860, he enlisted in the Confederate army. Afterwards he became a circus clown, and was with Robinson & Lake Circus, the Lake-Olympic Theatre Co., and Sells Bros. While a clown in the last named circus he was converted under the preaching of the cowboy preacher, ___ Harris, and from that time until his death he was a devout member of the Baptist Church.
New York Clipper, February 22, 1908, p. 13. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Concerning the English Circus, by Fred Martin. [Portions of the article were unreadable.]
England does not possess a railroad circus, and such shows as we have commence their annual tour about the second Sunday in March. The show proper is preceded by the advance staff, which travels some eighteen stands ahead.
The advance wagon is usually one of a light type, with covered sides and a roof. On the sides are tastefully painted pictures of the features of the show. The wagon is probably decorated with several carved representations of the royal coat of arms. It is drawn by a pair of smart, piebald horses, and, as it enters a town, looks very effective. There is only one contracting agent, and with him he carries a staff of bill posters and "window billers." The agent arranges for the field, the rental of which may be anything from five dollars to an exorbitant figure. No license is required for a circus over here, except in the boroughs of Liverpool and through Scotland. Today, the English shows do not employ a press agent; the advance agent generally places an advertisement in the principal newspapers of a town, and they, in return, will probably insert some slight notice of the coming of the show. Couriers, or even handbills are almost unknown as a method of advertising a concern, and the large posters portraying the features of the programme, are about one-half the size of those employed by American shows, and are not exceedingly artistic at that. The small pictorial posters such as used for "window billings" and covering small spaces, are frequently imported from America, and, though showy, one can see at a glance that they do not emanate from the better class houses. We have one house over here that prints posters for circuses and kindred entertainments only, and though its products are artistic and effective, it adds so few designs to its collection that the English public are almost as well acquainted with its paper as the showman, hence the leaning to American work.
The glories of the coming show are frothily set forth on what are termed "day bills," a rectangular sheet measuring about three feet by one and a quarter. The grammar, at times, is very inferior, and the descriptions crude and obviously the work of a person not overburdened with education. Years ago, many years ago, when the circus was the principal entertainment of England, "day bills" were almost faultless in their construction, and possessed a dignity not to be found today.
I have a large collection of bills of Astley's Amphitheatre - the most famous circus establishment England has ever had, where Van Amburgh and all the greatest performers of the time appeared - and these bills, though sixty-six years old, have a refinement and delicacy of description that you would try in vain to match in enlightened 1908.
The English circus does not build bill boards, as throughout the country there is an excellent arrangement of bill posting stations. Charges for this type of publicity are made by the sheet; sometime, however, the whole affair is effected for a fixed sum.
"Lord" George Sanger is an advertiser of great sapience. A few years ago he made a feature of what the public believed to be a genuine Spanish bull fight. The posters bore a vivid representation of the famous sport, and, by the description on the day-bills, the people were led to imagine that Mr. Sanger was introducing bull fighting for the first time in England. Not satisfied with this, he had narrow slips of the most unshowman-like appearance sent around to shops who were advertising his show, by a quiet looking man.
On these slips, it suggested that the attention of the "Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals" should be directed to the fact that bull fighting was to take place at Sanger's Circus, visiting the town on a certain date.
The public never doubted but what this was the work of some humane resident, and it had the effect of working up excitement to its highest pitch, in every town, and filling the Sanger tents on its arrival. The "Bull Fight," I may say, was nothing else but a very clever act by two clowns and a donkey; the whole thing was so full of fun that everyone was more pleased than if they had seen the real thing, and never thought of passing adverse criticism as they left the show.
At the time when "Looping the Loop" was the prevailing sensation over here, Mr. Sanger had posters printed with "Looping the Loop" in large type, and underneath, the name of his show. To the casual passer, it appeared, the "Looping the Loop" was to be an attraction with the Sanger Circus. The bill drew hundreds to the show, who had not taken the trouble to read the small lettering above the three words, who spoke of the Indians who would race 'round the ring, the performance being called - and then came the words - "Looping the Loop." . . .
. . . Appreciating the enormous hold football has on the English people, the managers of the Lord John Sanger Show trained a troupe of elephants to play the game with the clowns. This, in itself, was a strong attraction, but it was considerably strengthened when they put up a large goblet for anyone who could score three goals against their elephant goal keeper. A popular player in every town was secured by the agent who placarded the town, with the competitor's name, and displayed the goblet in a popular tradesman's window. The idea brought capacity houses in every town, and whether the man was successful in scoring against the elephant or not, he received the elaborate prize. What metal it was made of I can't say. Some time later this show stimulated business considerably by giving a suite of furniture in every town to some visitor to the show. The agent bought the suite and had it exhibited in its entirety, in the furniture dealer's window, several weeks before the show arrived, so that, with special posters, the affair was brought well before the inhabitants. On entering the show, in addition to the ordinary ticket, a numbered one was given which was retained by the purchaser. During the evening one of the Sangers entered the ring with a bag containing duplicates of all the tickets in possession of the audience. Anyone was invited to come forward and select one ticket from the bag. This done, the holder of the ticket bearing the number of the one extracted from the bag received the suite of furniture.
The English circus proprietor has a great love for concluding his performance with a "thrilling spectacle," in which elephants and unlimited red fire can be introduced. It is generally based on the Boer war, and is vividly depicted on the largest posters the concern carries. It is without exception the most disappointing feature of the whole show - that is to say, from the point of view of the man who expects to see what is advertised, but for those who have a vein of humor of any size it is not infrequently worth five times the admission fee, for the unconscious humor that is infused into it by the solemnity with which it is enacted.
In such productions no scenery is employed and, of course, when a war episode is presented, and you see all the horrors of war depicted with amazing fidelity, the piece, it must be admitted, is robbed of a trifle of its realism when you remove your eyes for one moment, from the scene of carnage to beyond the fight, and observe - where it should be the war-scarred scenery - tiers of people laughing and cheering at the display.
One of the funniest spectacles I have seen was where a fierce fight between cavalry took place in the ring itself, and at the same time a number of "warships" glided into the tent and took up positions around the ring. They were in reality a number of high lorries, the floor of which ran right over the shafts. Canvas painted to represent an iron-clad was nailed all round, and each was equipped with a mast or so, and one sailor. The concerns were pulled along by horses - one to each vessel - that were concealed by the canvas. A place at the bow was cut for the horse to see his way.
The solitary sailor had a busy time of it, for with one hand he fired the crackers out of a wooden cannon, and with the other he drove the horse by means of a hole in the "deck." The volley from the cannons on the battleships was either directed at the cavalry, who were still fighting about a foot away, or else at the dome of the tent. It was rather difficult to understand the position of the war. I think all the enemy's forces had been killed before the iron-clads came on the battlefield. They always kill the enemy off rather quickly in and English circus. But still the sailors poured fireworks on to the surviving troopers; but they didn't seem to mind a bit. Then some one lighted about a quarter of a hundredweight of red fire, and the band tore out the national anthem. It was all right, England had won, the the audience burst into wild cheers, and a moment later, they were fighting their way out of the tent almost choking. This is a fact, and the spectacle ran for a whole season with one of our principal shows. The foregoing is an outline of the average "war spectacle" produced by the English circus. . . .
. . . Circuses are generally transported by horses alone, the elephants are seldom used for the purpose of hauling anything, except in the parade. The show always remains on the lot over night, proceeding to the next town at about 6 a.m. or later, as the season advances.
Work is commenced immediately on arrival and continued until breakfast time. There is no such thing as a cook tent attached to the English show. The performers and the management have their own living cars which are elegantly appointed, and of course they have their meals in these.
The workers go to the coffee houses up in the town or prepare food in their enclosure.
The big top is generally up by nine o'clock, and from that time to twelve the laborers are busy arranging the seats, etc. The seats of the English circus are formed of stair-like support, on which planks are laid. The shilling (25 cents) are bare. The one-and-six, two shillings, and two-and-six (60 cents) have carpets of varying qualities spread over them.
The Lord John Sanger Show, however, for their better class patrons, provide velvet covered garden chairs.
From the seats, around the walling of the tent, is a gangway of about six feet, and then an ___ of bare seats, very little above the ground, runs around the entire tent. These seats are sold for sixpence (10 cents).
During the morning the performers amuse themselves by practicing some new feat, or go visiting friends who are perhaps appearing at the local amusement enterprise. No business whatever is done before the parade.
We do not have side shows of any kind, as we run a ten cent seat, and it is considered by the proprietors that the institution of an additional attraction would prove detrimental to business in the big tent.
The parades with both the Sanger Shows were very handsome affairs years ago, but today they do not appeal to one in the same light. The Sangers are very clever in devising pageants. At One time they were largely instrumental in the organization of our lord mayor's processions.
The parade leaves the encampment ground between twelve and one o'clock, according to the time the local factories close for the dinner hour. A tour is made of the principal streets, returning as the men pass back to their employment. The afternoon show commences about half past two, and is attended principally by mothers and their children in the working class districts. In the more superior neighborhood the gentlefolk, their children and servants are the chief patrons.
There are no grinders working outside the show, but there are liveried attendants, frequently African negores, and even the managers are seen walking about shouting directions to the various seats. Some shows have ticket wagons; these are ordinary baggage wagons with pigeonholes in the sides. With shows that do not employ ticket wagson you walk up steps through an elaborately decorated entrance, pay your money and then pass down another flight of steps into the tent. . . .
Where Shows Winter [Note: not complete, some listings are probably not circuses.] New York Clipper, February 22, 1908, p. 13. Information should be checked with additional sources
Anderson's United Shows, Glenrock, Pa.
Ament's, Hot Springs, Ark.
Al. Steele's Big 25 Cent Show, Vandergrift Heights, Pa.
Barnum & Bailey, Bridgeport, Conn.
Al. G. Barnes, Pueblo, Col.
Buchanan Bros., Des Moines, Ia.
Busby Bros, Pana, Ill.
Bonheur Bros., Augusta, Okl.
Buffalo Bill's Wild West, Bridgeport, Conn.
Brown's United Shows, 717 So. Beach St., Syracuse, N.Y.
Billie Boughton's Overland Show, Romney, Ind.
Mollie Bailey's, Houston, Tex.
Burke's Big Show, Lincoln, Neb.
Brown's Combined, Little Rock, Ark.
Bell Circus, City of Mexico, Mex.
Colorado Grant's, Oswego, Kan.
Clark Bros., Atoka, Okl.
Clark's United Shows, Alexandria, La.
Cole Bros., Harbor Creek, Pa.
Campbell Bros., Fairbury, Neb.
Col. Crawford's, Red Key, Ind.
Canada Frank, Tipton, Ia.
Andrew Downie's, Medina, N.Y.
Sam Dock's, Fredericksburg, VA.
Dashington Bros., Danville, Ill.
Geo. S. Ely's, Meridian, Tex.
Freed & Perrine's, Eaton Rapids, Mich.
Gentry's Dog and Pony, Nos. 1 and 2, San Antonio, Tex.
Gollmar Bros., Baraboo, Wis.
Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows, Peru, Ind.
E. Haag, Shreveport, La.
F. W. Hall, Atwood, Kan.
Geo. W. Hall's, Evansville, Wis.
Hargreave's, Chester, Pa.
Hall's Show, Fond du Lac, Wis.
Augustus J. Jones, Birmingham, Ala.
Le La Vant's Big Tent Show, Thomsonville, Mich.
Gus Lambrigger's, Orville, O.
Lamont Bros., Salem, Ill.
Lee Bros., Cranston, R.I.
Lemon Bros., Dodson, Mo.
Mackay's European Circus, Detroit, Mich.
Mead Dog and Pony Show, Brooklyn, N.Y.
Norris & Rowe's, Santa Cruz, Cal.
R. Z. Orton, Ortonville, Ia.
Pubiliones, Cafe Central, Havana, Cuba
Pan-American Show, Dodson, Mo.
Ringling Bros., Baraboo, Wis.
Rigg's Wild West, Parkin, Ark.
John Robinson's, Terrace Park, Cincinnati, O.
F. A. Robbins, Jersey City
Rice's Dog and Pony Show, New Albany, Ind.
Sells-Floto, Venice, Cal.
Wm. Sells, Kansas City, Mo.
Edward Shipp, Petersburg, Ill.
Steele's Circus, Manch Chunk, Pa.
Sun Bros., Macon, Ga.
Seibel Bros., Watertown, N.Y.
Swift Bros., Golden Gate, Ill.
Van Amburg, Valdosta, Ga.
Al. F. Wheeler, Marion, N.Y.
Wintermute Bros., Hebron, O.
Whitney Bros., Imlay City, Mich.
New York Clipper, February 29, 1908, pp. 66, 73. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Echos from Sun Bros.' Dixie Winter Show Depot. Just a few lines to remind our friends in the North that we are doing splendidly with our preparations for the new tour, which is shortly to open here (Macon, Ga.). The rebuilding of the show is going on, and it is a matter only of a few weeks ehen the aggregation will be ready for its seventeenth consecutive road season. Everything is in finer and better shape than in any previous season. The outfit of canvas, seats, wardrobe, paper and harness is all new, being built to order during the winter. The decorating and pictured embellishing of the wagons and cages will be a "thing of beauty." This work is being done under the direction of the well known circus wagon decorator, J. P. McCormick. The season opens during the last week in March, at Macon, under the auspices of the Macon Lodge of Shriners. The combined forces of the Shriners and the Sun Show will give the performances afternoon and night. A special programme is being arranged for the occasion. The special free lot exhibitions which take the place of the old time traditional street parade, will be of an unusual elaborate character, and will have as a big free card, Jules Veracco, a Canadian, in a sensational "skid" or "sky sailing" act given twice daily. Besides there will be several other "thirllers," daylight fireworks, etc. The policy of giving no street parade, which has been in vogue for two years, has been a great success, and the numerous free displays offered each morning and afternoon previous to the opening of the doors for the "main top," have proven a magnetic substitute. The performances in all departments will be of a meritorious character, and will be conspicuous for the many ensemble numbers or "big" acts. A new elephant act is now being prepared by Wm. Emery, the famous elephant man. Mr. Emery is here hard at work, and is also breaking a riding lion act, which will be a feature. The La Pasque Troupe and the Linsley Trio, both under the direction of Walter Linsley, are here perfecting their acts, and promis a revelatoin in new triple bar and aerialistic exploits. Francis J. Boyle and company, four people, are also at quarters, "limbering" up. Their specialty is club juggling and hoop rolling, but all of such an original character that it can be safely called "the so different" act. Harvey and Adams, European barrel jumpers; E. Kirke Adams and company, three people novelty impalement display, and the Sisters Wenzell, serpentine aerialists, are new bookings just added. Bandmaster Charles Gerlach has arranged his band, and claims that he will have quite a number of men in his party that are recognized individual soloists. Good music will be a predominant attraction with the show. A word of praise should be accorded to the hustling and genial Dave Gillispie, annex and privilege manager. Mr. Gillispie has a new outfit for his various concessions, and all of a modern build and money getting ideas. He has also booked some of the cleverest vaudeville and museum specialties. His refreshment department will, as always, stand the rigid inspection of the pure food laws. Frank La Vell has been engaged as lecturer by Mr. Gillispie. The weather here is balmy, and Central City Park is daily filled with visitors looking over the show outfit, and having a peek at the practicing "stunts" and the animals. Mr. Mugivan, of the Van Amburg Shows; Col. M. H. Welsh, of the Welsh Bros.; F. M. Shortridge, business manager of the "Buster Brown" Co.; Ed. E. Daley, manager of Murray and Mack's "Sunny Side of Broadway" Co.; and Edw. P. Neuman Jr., of the United States Tent and Awning Co., were visitors during the past week. George Sun is spending a pleasant month's sojourn at Hot Springs, and writes that he is enjoying himself immensely. Mr. and Mrs. D. H. Gillispie are also located at this popular resort for the winter months. Pete Sun is general-in-chief at winter quarters duirng the absence of the "governor." The advance force this season will be of a higher calibre than heretofore, and as formidable as ever before carried by a ten car show.
Frank J. Hurley, novelty musical performer, known in the profession at the "Harmonica King," is playing the Polack circuit of theatres in Ohio. He has been engaged for the tenting season with the Great Norris & Rowe Western Shows. Mr. Hurley has spent the past three seasons with the Frank A. Robbins All Feature Shows.
Notes from Oscar Lowande's Great Bay State Shows. We are doing finely in winter quarters at Reading, Mass., getting everything in first class condition for next season, when everything will be new from stakes to bale ring. It will be the greatest cone ring circus in the country. Oscar Lowande and troupe open at the Boston Hippodrome for the month of April, with Mr. Lowande as equestrian director, and furnishing the riding numbers. From the Hippodrome he will start his circus on the road about May 2, and during July and August he will be at the million dollar pier at Atlantic City. From there the Bay State goes on the road again for about two months longer. At present Mr. Lowande is ___ his winter circus. With him are the Eight Cornalias, Mr. and Mrs. Jamerson, Mr. and Mrs. Adolph Landolf, the Sims Bros., ___, and Harry W. Caron. Mr. and Mrs. Lowande recently entertained A. Rogers and family. They witnessed the performance at the winter circus and pronounced it a fine show. Mr. Rogers is manager and owner of the Boston Hippodrome.
Among the passengers injured in the wreck on the Florida special (S. R. R.), which occurred a short time ago, was Mrs. William O'Dale, wife of the well known bareback rider and equestrian director of Sun Bros.' Big Shows. Mrs. O'Dale was returning to Macon, Ga., after a visit to her niece, Mrs. ___ Knode, of Coshocton, O. Mrs. O'Dale suffered painful injuries in her back and cuts upon her head and arms. She is resting in Macon, and her many friends will be pleased to learn that high hopes are entertained for her ultimate recovery.
J. H. Fitzpatrick, press representative of Norris & Rowe's Circus, writes: "Having completed its run of forty-four performances in San Francisco, the Greater Norris & Rowe Circus and Hippodrome is back in witner quarters at Santa Cruz, where it will remain until our opening under canvas. The business done in San Francisco was very good, notwithstanding the general depression of business. The press of San Francisco devoted pages of space to the big circus, and the comic Sunday supplements had their burlesque characters of the show each Sunday. Aside from the actual profits made on the engagement, it will no doubt have a beneficent effect on the business in all the cities on the coast this Spring."
Chas. Hilderra has signed with the Cole Bros.' Show, for next season, to present his novelty contortion act, "The Elastic Monkey," and to clown. Hilderra is at present playing dates in New York State, and is booked up until April 1.
Charles E. Henry will have charge of the cook tent with the Barnum & Bailey Show next season.
Wm. H. Austin, for many years connected with the Barnum & Bailey Shows, has signed as boss hostler with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows.
Park B. Prentiss and his band are engaged for the third season with the Great Sells-Floto Shows, Consolidated. Twenty-eight of the best musicians in the business are engaged. The season opens at Venice, Cal., the latter part of March. Mr. Prentiss also has charge of the mail and is special agent for the Old Reliable with the show.
D. H. Gillispie and wife of the Sun Bros.' Shows, informs us that after having spent several very pleasant weeks at Hot Springs they expect to arrive at Macon, Ga., about March 1, preparatory to the opening of next season with the Sun Bros.' Shows.
Albert C. Sweet, bandmaster, will lead the Barnum & Bailey Band during the first two weeks of the Madison Square Garden engagement, and will then leave for the Ringling opening in Chicago in April. Mr. Sweet was for a number of years in charge of the Edison Phonograph Band, at Orange, N.J.
Walter L. Main writes, under date of Feb. 17, as follows: "It has just been brought to my attention that some weeks ago an article appeared in a newspaper to the effect that I was to handle the privileges with the Frank A. Robbins Show next season, and I have received numerous letters asking for engagements of various kinds. I wish to state through the columns of your paper that the above rumor is entirely without foundation. My plans for 1908 are not as yet completed, but when I do put the Walter L. Main Show back on the road again it will be second to none in magnitude and merit."
Steve Miaco sends the following news items from Tampa, Fla.: "The White City Hippodrome-Circus, direct from Chicago, has opened here, and is a big success. We use a 110ft. round top, and two 50ft. middle pieces, and are working for the Fair Association. Business is big. We have two rings and one stage. The weather here is fine and the boys all imagine they are with the summer outfit. I have got them all drinking cider. Following is the roster of the show: F. A. Barnes, manager; Robt. Stickney, equestrian director; Steve Miaco, principal clown, and also the following clowns: Dick Reno, Rube, Newton, Ames, Feathers, Bill, Bennett and Doblado, also the following acts: Three Olivers, wire act; Orrin Davenport, Mrs. Stickney, principal act; Dewar's dogs, Mlle. O'Mego, wire act; Two Lawrences, balancing wire act; Miss Reno, contortionist; the Hobsons, jockey act; the Davenports, jockey act; Wheeler and Rosey, bicycle act; Kraft and Mlle. Miaco, Doblado's sheep, Japanese Troupe. Laurent Trios, hurdle act; Mrs. Stickney, carrying act; the Hobsons, a big clown number by Steve Miaco; Alvos, aerial bar act, and the Nelson Family of acrobats."
Chas. N. Lee writes that he has signed with the John H. Sparks Shows to do magic, marionettes and announcements for next season.
The call of the Barnum & Bailey Show appears in this issue. The show will open March 19 at Madison Square Garden, New York.
J. W. (Bob) Russell, talking and singing clown, has signed with the Great Reed Show for next season. He will also handle the privileges with the show, which opens eaerly in March.
Pete Bell and Eva Bell open with Barnum & Bailey Shows, at Madison Square Garden, for the season. Mr. Bell will be the principal double somersault leaper.
Notes of the Leon Washburn Shows. J. W. Brownlee, general manager, has bought of Sig. Sautelle, all his baggage wagons and fine carriages used for a wagon show. Also purchased of Ben Wallace two boxing Siberian camels, known as Bess and Duke. They were trained by Carl Hagenbeck, and are the only ones that were ever brought to this country. The show will travel by wagon, using one hundred head of draught horses and forty Shetland ponies. Four elephants are being broken to draw the band wagon over the road; also for the parade. Will play the larger towns one to three days, opening at Bound Brook, N.J., May 2.
The Van Amburg "Call" appears in this issue. The heads of departments and performers and side show people, Jerry Mugivan; musicians, A. Wheeler; canvasmen and seatmen, Thos. S. Tucker; property men, Geo. R. Murray; side show canvamen, W. Jones; drivers, C. Munson; cooks and waiters, C. H. Phillips; candy butchers, L. C. Miller; all other privileges, Bert Bowers.
Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Show notes. Capt. H. Snider will be superintendent of the menagerie; also have charge of the trained animal acts with this show during the coming season. He is a present at the Wheeler winter quarters, breaking in several new features for his department.
Stricklin, with his Dog and Monkey Circus are in winter quarters at Canton, O. ___ Stricklin, manager, is breaking six large German poodles to add to his act the coming season.
New York Clipper, March 14, 1908, p. 114. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
. . . two month's season the E. T. Shipp Circus, which toured Panama, Costa Rica and Jamaica. Others with the company were: Tom Gibbs, Alex and Martinho Lowande, Carrie Kemp, Wm. Siegrist, Frank Albertino, Latell Sisters, the Great Kall, Alex Brisson, Joe Miller, Chas. Carroll, and their band under the direction of Mr. McGowan. Mr. Ship will be the equestrian director with the Barnum & Bailey Show.
L. S. Horne is president and manager of Horne's Zoological Arena, located at Denver, Col. The circus end of the Horne business is under the name of Horne's Great Western Shows.
Notes from the Washburn Circus, Museum, Menagerie and Carnival Alliance winter quarters, Bound Brook, N.J. This is a scene of activity, with blacksmiths, painters, trainers, etc., busy preparing for the coming season. Numerous improvements have been made and new features added, including new cages and new canvas. The painting and picture embellishment is under the direction of William Hedges. The free exhibitions will be of an elaborate character. The performances will be of a meritorious character and will be conspicuous for a large number of big acts. The four elephants are now at home, as their vaudeville work is over. Mr. Washburn has purchased a great expense for our zoological department, the strongest animal or bird ever imported. Scientists call it "phorobasos," the nearest thing to a prehistoric animal. It stands nearly seven feet high with a head and neck larger than those of a horse, with leg bones the size of an ox, and around his head a large ___ of flesh resembling a platter, and three large horns on his head. It will be the paramount feature of this department. The farmers living within twenty miles of our winter quarters did not get much Spring ___ as they come in droves to see the elephants, and Bess and Duke, and the Siberian camels, go through their daily rehearsals. Everything will be ready when the band plays May 2.
Chas. J. Grant and wife have signed with the H. M. Fry's Shows for the coming season, opening at Johnstown, Pa.
Notes from the J. F. Henry Shows. Our show has been greatly improved this season, as we have added an animal annex to our already big dog and pony show. Last season we carried fifteen wagons, eight Shetlands, ten monkeys and a cage of birds, and have just completed six new cages, and have also added a lion, tiger, leopard, lynx, tamed bear and five beautiful birds. We will feature the lion untamable act this season. We open Saturday, March 21.
Fred N. Thompson, of ___, N.J., has signed to play alto and the violin with A. R. Wheeler's Concert Band and Orchestra, which goes out with the Van Amburg Show.
Zech and Zech, aerial performers, have been re-engaged for their fifth consecutive season with the Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. They are at present playing vaudeville dates through the West, where their act is meeting with great success.
The Avallon Troupe, acrobatic wire experts, have been engaged for Sun Bros. Greater Progressive Shows, for the coming season.
Ernest Cooke returned from Cuba March 7, having been obliged to cut his tour short in order to come back and begin active operations for the opening of the Buffalo Bill Show, in New York.
New York Clipper, March 21, 1908, pp. 133, 138. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Three Bounding Pattersons (known as the "Globe Trotters") send the following from Bombay, India, under date of Feb. __: "We are touring the Far East with Harmston's Royal Circus. Just finished six weeks of big business in Calcutta, and at present are playing Bombay for five weeks. We go to Madras, India, from here, then the Colombo, Ceylon, the Singapore Straits Settlements, and from there to China. Will spend Christmas, 1908 in Manila. At present we are the only Americans with the circus. J. C. Carter, the 'loop the loop' man (an American), just finished a two years' engagement in Calcutta, and sails for London on his way to New York. Our bounding trampolin bar act is making a big hit with the Hindus. It is the first trampolin act they have ever seen out here."
Mr. and Mrs. Lew Graham spent week of Feb. 24 at Crawfordsville, Ind., as guests of the circus man's friend, A. B. Jones, host of the Hotel Crawford.
Campbell Bros. open their regular season at Fairbury, Neb., April 25. The show has been improved, and will be stronger than ever. Recent engagements are: Raleigh Wilson, principal clown, his third season with them, and Mizuno Troupe of Five Japanese, making their eighth consecutive season with this organization. They are concluding their vaudeville dates at the principal theatres in the Middle West.
Oscar Lowande writes that, with Wm. Sims and William Jameson, he accomplished the difficut feats of turning a somersault from shoulder to shoulder, using two horses, bareback, while running tandem; also riding one horse while holding his top-mounter in a hand-to-hand stand, and doing a forward somersault donw; a handstand on the head, standing on the head, and doing a foot in the hand on shoulders. The last four feats Oscar Lowande did with his father. Mr. Lowande states that he is the first rider in this, or in any other country who has accomplished the somersault from shoulder to shoulder on horses running in tandem, bareback, and that he has proof to verify this statement.
Cole Brothers will open their season at Erie, Pa., April 25.
The Sells-Floto Show will open at Los Angeles, Cal., April 6. Doc Waddell will be the press agent. Rhoda Royal's twenty horse menage act will be one of the features. ?. J. Sassaria and wife will also join. W. McFarland is to have charge of the side show. Geo. Heiser will be contracting agent.
The Great Yankee Robinson Show will have W. H. Quinnet as general agent; Homer Davis, ___, ___ McClure, and billposters Geo. Somerville, Harry Thomas, Al. Knauf, Walt. Rockwell . . .
Will Delavore writes: "Orrin Davenport and his wife Victoria, left Chicago recently for New York to join the Barnum & Bailey Show. John Davenport goes with the Yankee Robinson Show. Homer Hobson and wife return to the Ringling Bros.' Show; Stick and Norma Davenport go with the John Robinson Ten Big Shows; Reno McCree and Lulu Davenport return to the Hagenbeck Show, with their triple jockey act, as the McCree-Davenport Troupe; May Davenport is considering a few very flattering offers; Orrin Davenport Jr. does not go out this season, but is keep a special cow very busy supplying new laid milk for him daily."
Al. F. Wheeler has purchased the entire outfit of the James E. Joyce One Ring Circus, at Greenwich, N.Y., and the same has been shipped to the Wheeler winter quarters at Marion, N.Y., to be added to the New Model, making it one of the largest wagon shows on the road for the coming season.
Mitzi Wagner, of Morok, who performed a loop-the-gap in circuses, was shot and killed afternoon of Tuesday, March 3, in her room on the third floor of a theatrical boarding house at 215 West Forty-second Street, New York City, by Antoinette De Franne, another performer. The killing was done with an old fashioned French magazine pistol, and is believed by the police to have been accidental. The two women met in the afternoon at a store, and Miss Wagner invited her friend to her room to have a cup of tea. While she was preparing the tea the shooting occurred. Miss De Franne told the police she found the pistol on a desk and pointed it at Miss Wagner. In some way, she declared, it was accidentally discharged, and the bullet struck Miss Wagner on the ring side of the neck.
Adele Price, Mrs. Paul Cinqueralli, on of the great Price Circus Family, died in London, Eng., on March _. She was at one time prominent at the Circus ___, Vienna, and her friend and patron during her career was Empress Elizabeth of Austria. Her husband, Cinqueralli, the noted juggler, survives her.
William Musgat, the general agent of the Sells-Floto Shows, and one of the best known circus men in the United States, died suddenly from heart failure on March __, while packing his trunk in his room at the Windsor Hotel, Denver, Col. Mr. Musgat had been identified with circuses for the last quarter of a century. He was born in Fond du Lac, Wis., forty-five years ago, but claimed Fort Dodge, Ia., as his home, as his parents moved there shortly after his birth, and have lived there ever since. Mr. Musgat first joined a wagon show, called Taylor's Circus. He remained with this outfit for some time, then went with the Sells ___ Syndicate Shows as steward. His next season with a circus was with the Robinson Shows. He next became advertising manager of car No. 1 of the Great Wallace Shows. He held this position for ___ seven years. He left to become general agent of the William P. Hall Shows. In 1906 he joined the Sells-Floto Shows as general agent, a position he held until his death. He leaves a wife, who took the body to Fort Dodge for internment.
New York Clipper, March 28, 1908, pp. 155, 159, 164. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
New Acts with the Barnum & Bailey Circus.
Wotan, the Horse-Balloonist. ___ Marrder, the well known circus rider, who has recently been presenting a riding act in vaudeville, is offered as one of the special feature acts in the Barnum & Bailey Show, mounted on Wotan, a steed that shows remarkable training, and permits itself to be hoisted to the dome of the Madison Square Garden on a small platform only big enough for it to stand on. The act is a genuine novelty and an undeniable thriller, and reflects great credit upon all concerned in it. Prof. E. M. Salamouski directs it. The act is begun by the lowering of a big balloon under which is suspended a small platform just big enough for the horse to stand upon. Wotan is then ridden upon the platform by Miss Marrder, and horse and rider are slowly and impressivley raised to the dome, the animal displaying neither fear nor nervousness. Once at the top of a ring of sputtering fireworks goes off all around the platform, hiding the remarkable horse and its courageous rider in the flame and sparks. Then the platform is lowered, and the act is over. Tremendous applause greeted Miss Marrder, and the act was voted one of the big hits of the show. It is announced by the management that Miss Marrder will hereafter appear under the name of Miss Walkeur.
The Leamy girls, in some mid-air gymnastic work of gilt edged quality, and with a working apparatus that is impressive of itself, are a strong feature of the Barnum & Bailey Circus this season, and made one of the biggest successes of the show on the opening night. The four girls have things all to themselves in their thrilling and picturesque specialty, and the offering holds close attention form start to finish - and it ran unusually long for a circus act, too. The Leamys have been in the country before, but it is a long time since their startling act has been given here, and it comes in the nature of a novelty. They perform in, on and over a electrically lighted giant wheel, which revolves while two of the girls are going through their feats on trapezes attached to different parts of the apparatus. This big wheel has the appearance of being made to revolve by the manipulation of a suspended bicycle, ridden by one of the girls, and a great number of ___ electric bulbs, variously colored, gives a pretty setting to the act. The trapeze work of the girls is splendid, and their finish, which is high diving into the net, brings plenty of applause. The offering is one of the neatest and most novel ever seen in a circus.
The Urma Sisters, three in number, and all pretty girls, give an aerial act in the Barnum & Bailey Show at the Garden that is as worthy of approbation of the circus patron as one could well desire. Although the sisters work under difficulties, being forced to divide attention with half a dozen other specialties which are given at the same time, they come out of the contest with flying colors, performing a number of feats that are well worth watching, and working with an ease and finish that earn them special applause. After going through a number of neatly executed evolutions in mid-air, they slide slowly down ropes to the net in a pretty picture pose which makes a fitting conclusion to a well arranged offering. The Urma girls are natives of England, and have had considerable success abroad, with a long engagement at the London Hippodrome to their credit. Their experiences in America have previously been confined to engagements over the Orpheum circuit, on which they made a hit. This is their first appearances in New York, and they will return to England after their engagement with the circus.
"Autos That Pass in the Air" is the heavily typed "thriller" of the Barnum & Bailey Show this year, and it deserves its distinction as one of the "stars" of the circus, embodying, as it does, the latest and what seems to be the greatest of the death defying features that the big garden shows have annually brought forth, each succeeding one aiming to discount everything of its kind that has gone before. The act is begun when two of the four girls engaged to ride in the cars are strapped in their respective autos, one in a red car and the other in a white one. The autos are then pulled up to the top of a steep incline, and, at a signal, are released. The cars, tandem fashion, then dash down, the red one, which is in the lead, being fitted with wheels that do not revolve. Striking the bottom of the incline, near the ground, the red auto shoots off into the air, turns a complete somersault, and land, with a thud, on a platform some feet away, stopping instantly. The white auto, a second behind the other, sails through the air right under the red car, and, landing on the platform, runs a short distance. The adjustment of weights in the autos is the secret of the trick, which is a sensation of the most "ticklish" kind. . . .
The Great Fredians. A newly imported riding act was shown in the middle ring of the Garden last week, during exhibit No. __, and the programmed description which put it down as a "most adroit equestrian exhibition" was truthful. The Great Fredians, three in number, made up the act, and proved one of the strongest features of the Barnum & Bailey Show. The two men of the troupe do some good riding as a preliminary, and then the youngster performs some shoulder to shoulder leaps while the horses are making the circuit of the ring. His leap from the shoulders of one of the men back to the shoulders of the other, who is riding on the horse right behind, is a startler, and the act throughout is one well worth watching.
The Four Newsomes, one of the new acts with the Barnum & Bailey Show at the Garden, were an important part of Display No. _, in some impressive feats in hand to hand balancing and bridge work. Two of the troupe stand on globes and hold on their shoulders a bar, upon which another performs various feats, and one of the most novel and praiseworthy parts of the offering is the formation of a bridge while two of the troupe stand on a see-saw, balancing the other performer between them cleverly on this unsteady footing. The act was full of interesting things, and drew forth hearty applause.
Hagenbeck Company to Dissolve. Action for the dissolution of the Carl Hagenbeck Circus and Show Company has been begun in the Superior Court of Cincinnati, O., and attorney A. Huston was named as referee by Judge Spiegel to ascertain the assets and liabilities and report to the court. The action was brought by attorneys representing John H. Havlin, Harry Rainforth, W. Austin Goodman, Frank R. Tate and C. Lee Williams, a majority of the directors of the company. The corporation, according to the statements, has a capital stock of $500,00, and was organized for the purpose of conducting all kinds of amusement enterprises and operating hotels and everyting in connection therewith, buying, renting and leasing real estate and buildings and all personal property usefull or necessary for giving circus performances, shows, exhibitions and performances of any and every description. The business, however, never paid any dividends, and there is no prospect of any profits or advantage in continuing it. In fact, the company sold all of its animals and paraphernalia to the Wallace Circus people last November, and the only assets left to the company, it is set forth, is $875 on a claim against the United States Tent Co., of Chicago.
Phil Keeler, late of "The Convict and the Girl" company, has signed with Gollmar Bros. Show for this season, to clown and work in the concert.
Business staff of Heber Bros.' Greater Tent Shows. Reginald C. Heber, business manager; Rollo F. Heber, assistant manager; Reginald C. Heber, treasurer; George T. Heber, secretary; __ Henderson, musical director; Benjamin C. Heber, advance agent; Buck Morey, boss canvasman, formerly with the Forepaugh-Sells Shows.
Notes from the Silver Plate Show winter quarters, Interlaken, Mass. Things are progressing very nicely here, and will be in ship-shape long before our opening, May 11. Our wagons have all been done over in red, blue and silver, and present a very swell appearance. Our parade wardrobe will be new and second to none. Our "spread" on the lot will be as follows: big top, 70x130; side show 40x70; stable, 30x60; dressing top, twenty-four foot round top; cook house, 18x27. We will use thirty head of draught stock, besides fifteen head of ponies and donkeys. The following people have signed for this season: Harry Ross Acker (fourth season), traps and revolving ladder; Jordan and Le Favor Trio, triple tight wire, trapeze rings and La ___; Miss ___, menage act; Joe Fox, singing and talking clown. Henry Savage will lead our band, his third season; Ike Williams will be general superintendent, as usual, and anything he overlooks isn't worth noticing. We have broken a four pony drill, two high school pones and a pony stallion, which does twenty-two tricks that will make the natives sit up and take notice. Also a troupe of fox terriers and bulldogs that will do an act different from the usual dog acts. To say we are waiting for the opening day and some real circus weather, is putting it very mildly.
Notes from Sun Brothers' Shows. The Sun Brothers' Greater Progressive Shows open their season at Macon, Ga., on April 7. The band rehearsals, under the guidance of Charles Gerlach, started on March 30. The ring performance rehearsals commence on April 2, under the direction of William O'Dale. The opening performances will be given under the auspices of Macon Lodge of Mystic Shriners (Yaslee Temple). It will be a noteworth event, inasmuch as the Shriners will have the entire handling of the show for the day. Shriners will officiate as clowns, ringmasters, side-show orators, candy butchers, etc. A great deal of local interest is being manifested for this occasion. The public schools and many of the mills will close for the day. Special excursions will be run from Atlanta, Savannah, Columbus, Augusta and other neighboring towns. The Atlanta Shriners are coming with their own band. Invitations have been extended to the governor and other leading officials of the State, and it is probably that they will attend. Indications point to two capacity audiences, and a seven centre pole canvas will be used for this occasion. One of the new features will be a new elephant act, arranged by William Emery, who will also handle the act on the oroad.
Williamson and Gilbert have signed for this season with the Carl Hagenbeck & Great Wallace Show, to do their singing and talking act in the concert.
Al. Steinmitz has signed as general agent with Lee Bros.' Shows, as also has the Antonio Jannaitas Band, which will be featured. The outfit this year is all new, from stake to bale ring, and will have all the features of the old time one ring circus. Opening day will be Wednesday, April 22.
Bennie Carroll and the Judge Trio have signed to open with the Ringling Show at Chicago, April 6.
A. D. Reynard, trick and comedy cyclist, has been engaged for this season with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows, to present his specialty in big show, and his blindfolded ride down a sixty foot ladder on a unicycle, as the free outside attraction.
Prof. Wm. McConkey and J. J. Kelly announce that they will have as neat a wagon show as "comes down the pike." There will be thirty-six people with the show, and will feature the professor's troupe of trained horses, six in number, and a new dog act. They will carry a band of ten pieces and put out a parade. The show opens early in may at Lansing, at their new winter quarters.
Thos. Meyers, formerly local manager Orpheum Theatre, Los Angeles, Cal., is now engaged with Sells-Floto Show for the tenting season. The circus opens at Los Angeles, Cal., April _.
The Sells-Floto Shows, which are wintering in Venice, Cal., will begin their Spring tour in Los Angeles, April 6. Al ___ Temple, Ancient Order, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, has purchased the show for a week for their second annual charity circus. The Children's Hospital will be given an endowment fund of $10,000 from the proceeds. The Sells-Floto Circus will give similar Shrine affairs in other cities. Judge De Witt, C. Webber, general counsel; H. H. Tammen, general manager, and Frank Tammen, business manager of the Sells-Floto Shows, are the gentlemen who are arranging the Shriner circus affairs.
The Sells-Floto Shows will travel in their own special trains of thirty-eight cars the coming season. W. R. Musgat will be general agent; Doc Waddel, general contracting agent and advance press representative . . . Harry Moore and Thos. J. Myers will have charge of the ticket wagon. Rhoda Royal will be principal equestrian director, and will bring his own stock, consisting of thirty-nine head, for the grand entry, and the two special numbers, entitled "Gathering the Garland" and "The Game of the Rose." Jno. Carroll will also be an equestrian director, and will work his forty head of Shetland ponies and his champion stallion, "Rinaldo." The big animal feature will be the group of sixteen elephants worked by Carl Zeits. W. McFarland will have charge of the side show and concert. Spader Johnson will be principal clown, assisted by Chad. Werts, Mr. and Mrs. Savoy, Girard Ernest, Ed. Welch, Lloyd Neill, Geo. Gardner, Jno. Harris, Albert La Due, "Piffles," Frank Jones, Will Ward, Jeff Powers, Sam ___, Jas. Sherry, Andy Darling, Jno. Albion, Wm. Ames, Billy Rice, Zella Forest, Jas. ___, Hampton Van . . . Dan Marvelle, and Mr. and Mrs. Bert Davis.
The big acts include: the Siegrist Neapolitans, ten people; Goldin Troupe, twelve people; Ishikuwa Japanese Troupe, Ottokar Bartik, ballet master, and company of fourteen Austrian dancers; Three Tybells, aerialists; Jennesse Duree Troupe, La Nole, ___ and La Nole, high wire act . . . Vane and De Clariville . . . Paul Ackerman . . . Park Prentiss will be principal bandmaster. Harrie Harris will be leader of No. 2 band. Mayor De Vol will have charge of No. 3 band. Riders (principal) are: John James and Millie Corriea, Cecil and Nelly Lowande, Charles Siegrist, Mme. Clara Ruel, Nellie Carroll and Minnie Johnstone. Chas. Sanders will work fourteen Arabian stallions. Three Savoys have a big troupe of highly trained bull terriers. Fitzgerald's flock of trained four-in-hand geese; Philip Darling and his troupe of trained pigs; Sassaria and his barnyard fowls.
New York Clipper, April 11, 1908, pp. 207, 218. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
New Acts with the Ringling Brothers's Show.
. . . Frank Shadle is a horseman of extremely quick mind, handling his troupe of horses with the Ringling Show as easily as the ordinary rider would handle one, and making them go through all manner of evolutions naturaly and easily. There is no apparent nervousness and excitability on the part of the animals, though they are all high-spirited and fine looking beasts.
Les Bastiens do a European riding act with the Ringling Circus, distinctive in its novelty and noted for the manner in which all the tricks of this art are accomplished. The people have a happy faculty of keeping the audience in ignorance of what they are about to do until it is accomplished, and it is done so rapidly that it is almost impossible to realize that a change has been made in the position. They are all accomplished horse people, and as far as their acrobatic work is concerned they have few equals in this country. Their turn was one of the most appreciated of the entire performance, and the audience gave them unstinted applause.
Charles Clark does a juggling act on the bare back of a horse which trots and ambles about the ring of the Ringling Show, always in motion, Mr. Clark facing forward or backward, as the humor happens to strike him, and apparently paying no attention to the horse at all. He is a clever rider in the first place, and handles the animal well, and is also a fine manipulator of the juggling tools, which are thrown to him by an assistant.
The Three Duttons have a high cart, in which they drive into the ring of the Ringling Show, the horses being harnessed tandem. They go through evolutions from the cart to the backs of the horses, leaping, jumping, climbing, turning flip-flaps, and doing all with extraordiary ease. The horses are cream white, the cart white and gold, and the costumes of the trio are in accordance, as regards the tinting, making a very pretty display. Their finale is clever in that the lead horse is fastened by a kind of harness which gives out to a great length, and makes some of the acrobatic work all the more difficult. The act was a great success, and was warmly applauded.
Augustad, the great contortionits, appeared at the opening performance of the Ringling Show in Chicago and immediately became a favorite with the audience. This man seems to be of the absolutely "boneless" variety, and twists himself into all sorts of inconceivable shapes. He has a very pleasant appearance and works naturally and easily, not straining as many of his kind do, and making it rather a torture than a pleasure for the audience to sit through their acts.
Mlle. La Belle Roche. This little woman, owing to the breaking of the rear wheels at the rehearsals of the Ringling Show on the afternoon of the opening day, was unable to give her performance that night, as the wheels could not be prepared or others substituted in time, but the description as given on the programme, and by one or two of the "faculty" of the show, will suffice for the present. The incline and platform from which the woman and the machine starts are both on the same principle as most of the previous sensational acts of this kind. The turn at the base seems to be more abrupt than that of last year. The idea of the act is that the auto, with Mlle. La Roche strapped securely in it, is started from the summit of this incline, which is almost perpendicular, and rushes with lightning like rapidity down to the abrupt turn, which is like that of a soup ladle, and then the machine is sprung off into the air, making a double somersault forward in midair, and landing on a specially constructed platform about forty feet away, and running into a ___, constructed for the purpose of stopping without jarring the rider too much.
Sells-Floto Circus in Los Angeles. Another wire from the Sells-Floto Shows. Los Angeles, Cal., April 6. The Sells-Floto Circus today, under the auspices of the Shriners, played to over $20,000, taking the record from the Barnum & Bailey Show Madison Square Garden record. The advance sale for the rest of the week insures daily turn-aways. Shriners are here from all over the United States, and the hotels are crowded. Greates event ever in West. Chas. Segrist accomplished four complete somersaults in mad dive from the dome to the net. John Correia turned forty-two somersaults in a bareback riding act. The citizen gave a midnight parade in honor of events and new records established. Signed, H. H. Tammen.
The Kemp Sisters' Wild West Show No. 1, has made arrangement to open on the lot at Brighton Beach, N.Y., opposite the race track, and directly back of Brighton Beach Music Hall. The opening date is set for June 27. The show opens at the Auditorium, Louisville, Ky., May __. The Kemp Sister's Wild West Show, No. 2, will be at the Hippodrome, Atlantic City, N.J., on Young's Pier all summer, opening early in June.
Hagenbeck and Wallace Shows for Chicago. Harry Earl, business representative for the Carl Hagenbeck and Great Wallace Combined Shows, is out with the announcement that Chicago is to have a view of this great attraction next Oct. 5-18, when it will be seen at the Dexter Park Building, under the auspices of the Chicago Benevolent Association of Firemen. This will be the first time in a long time that this circus has displayed in Chicago, and it will undoubtedly be welcomed by a big throng.
101 Ranch to Return to Chicago. Miller Brothers' 101 Ranch Wild West Show, which met with such great success in Chicago last season, previous to its incursion of the Jamestown Exposition, will return for a two weeks' engagement at the Coliseum, following the Ringling Brothers' date there, and opening April __. Two performances will be given daily, and the show will be considerably enlarged over that seen last year. The entire offering will be composed of features from their ranch at Bliss, Oklahoma.
Notes from the Silver Family Shows. All hands are busy around our headquarters. Our twelve wagons and cars are all neatly painted and decorated, new canvas, and everything in A1 condition for our opening about May __. We shall take the same route through Michigan. This show has no reason to change its territory, as last season was a banner one. This season we are carrying more acts than ever before. We are not enlarging but are putting on the strongest small tent show in the business. We are carrying thirty people and twenty-two horses. The Silver Family, musicians and performers, band and orchestra, Chas. ___, casting act and bounding wire; Melzer Bros., novelty aerialists and gymnasts; Burns Trio, ground tumbling and triple bars; J. Dickinson, singing and dancing comedian; De Golda, principal clown; Leota, contortionist; Silver Bros., jugglers; Harry F. Silver, baritone singer; Silver Family, proprietors; Bert Silver, manager; ?. Earl Silver, assistant manager; J. Merrill, agent.
Steve Miaco, who is principal clown at the Boston Hippodrome, has an act there known as Miaco and ___'s sheep, which is one of the big features.
Art Adair writes: "I am finishing my vaudeville engagements for this season at the Bijou Theatre, Decatur, Ill., after which I go to my home at Oak Park, Ill., to prepare for the opening of the summer season with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show, at Peru, Ind. I have been principal clown and general performer with that show for the past three seasons, also doing a double specialty, carrying perch and head to head balancing act with my wife, Dot Adiar."
William Gilman will be ahead of the Campbell Bros. Shows this season, this making his fourth season with the above show. Mr. Gilman is one of the old members of the Wallace Flying Squadron, and was considered one of its most progressive billers.
The Mardo Trio, comedy acrobats, closed March 28 at the Gotham Theatre, New York, with the Washington Society Girls Co., to open April 2 with Ringling Bros. Circus.
The Aherns are engaged for this season with the Great Sells-Floto Shows.
Notes from the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows. We are going out bigger and better than ever this season, both in equipment and merit of performances. The parade, which takes place daily at 12 o'clock, will present many new features, after which a new, daring free exhibition will be given on the show ground, a blindfolded ride down a sixty foot ladder on a unicycle. Charles Eldridge Griffin, formerly identified with the Ringling Bros. and Buffalo Bill enterprises, will manage the sideshow, which will present the following attractions: Capt. H. Snyder, hypnotic lion act; Cleo, snake charmer; Belmont's comedy bears, Comical Coco, clown ventriloquist; the Royal English Puch and Judy Show; Griffin, the Yankee Yogi, and ten cages of animals.
New York Clipper, April 18, 1908, pp. 242, 244. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
On May 2, at Marion, N.Y., the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows will again start on its season's tour, with practically a brand new outfit. Although finishing touches are still being made to the rolling stock, the general results can be anticipated, and the labors of painters and decorators have been most satisfactory. All of the wagons, including the baggage wagons, have been finished in white and gold. A new band wagon, for new cages, and a water wagon have been built, and we will, in addiiton, have the entire outfit of the Joyce Circus (which was recently purchased by Mr. Wheeler), and has been added to the New Model. Included in this purchase was the beautifully trained Arabian horse, Prince __, which will prove a valuable acquisition to our equine department. All new and larger tents will be used, and the spread on the lot will compare favorably with many of the big railroad shows. The advance forces will again be under the capable direction of F. J. Frink, and this department has been strengthened to such an extent that it will be able to successfuly cope with any and all opposition. A full line of special paper will be used, which for quality and artistic excellence will be outclassed by none. The big show and side show have this season received careful attention, and recent engagements guarantee performances of unusual merit and attractiveness. For the big opening feature, the beautiful arenic spectacle, "The Queen of Nations," has been devised, and it is the handsomest and most elaborate effort ever performed by any but the larger show. Prominent among the big show performers are: Zech and Zech, premier aerialists . . . Ethel Billings, novelty ring specialty; A. D. Reynard, comedy trick cyclist; Hamilton Family Concert Band, and Prof. H. Snyder's troupe of trained horses, ponies and dogs. The musical programme will be in keeping with the ring performances, and under the leadership of Adam Gillespie will furnish entertaining music. In securing Charles Eldridge Griffin as manager of the side show it goes without saying that this department will compare favorably with that of any show, and this well known official has secured several new features. The New Model presents in Albert Gaston and Al. F. Wheeler Jr., the oldest and youngest creators of laughter now before the public, and in Prof. Snyder's comedy bears will have an animal act out of ordinary. As a free outside attraction, a thriller has been secured in the engagement of the "Great Reynard," who rides blindfolded on a unicycle down a 100ft. ladder. It speaks volumes for the popularity and thorough business methods of the management that there are no vacancies in any department, and, fully equipped, the show will open the season with almost to a man the same force that closed with it last Fall. . . . Following is the complete roster: Al. F. Wheeler, proprietor and manager; Adam Gillespie, assistant manager; F. J. Frink, general agent; J. Russells, in charge of No. 2 advance brigade; D. C. De Groat, special agent; Fletcher Smith, press agent back with the show; __ Hayden, boss billposter, with five assistants; Capt. H. Snyder superintendent of menagerie; George Wood,superintendent of canvas; Wm. Austin, charge of stock . . . Jack Wolfe, charge of ponies; John English, superintendent of lights . . . Fletcher Smith, advertising banners; Adam Gillespie, band leader . . . Big show performers: Albert Gaston, principal clown and equestrian director; Zech and Zech, aerialists; A. D. Reynard, comedy trick cyclist; Ethel Billings, novelty ring act . . . Prof. H. Snyder's troupe of trained horses, ponies and dogs; Wheeler's dancing horses . . . Clowns: Albert Gaston, Al. F. Wheeler Jr., ___ Wheeler, ___ and Frank Billings. Concert: Hamilton Family Concert Band; Wheeler Bros., singers, dancers and novelty change performers . . . Side show: Charles Eldridge Griffin, manager; Capt. Snyder's hypnotic lion act; Cleo, snake Charmer; Belmont's comedy bears; Comical Coco, clown Ventriloquist; Punch and Judy, and Griffin, Yankee Yogi. Flethcher Smith and Geo. Eaton will be the ticket takers.
It is announced that Sig. Sautelle will be associated with Frank A. Robbins in the Frank A. Robbins Shows this season.
Barnum & Bailey Canvas Season. Parade Will Be Revived. The Barnum & Bailey Circus will close its indoor season at the Madison Square Garden this Saturday, and will move to Brooklyn next week, playing under a tremendous tented area. The parade, which Barnum & Bailey discontinued three years ageo, is to be revived in Brooklyn, on an unusually large scale. This parade will be given on Easter Monday morning, providing the weather be clear, and will be continued throughout the season.
The Gollmar Brothers' opens May _, at Baraboo, Wis.
Notes and roster of the Jones Enormous Shows. The Kennedy Trio (Charles, Lillian and William), revolving trapeze; Mr. and Mrs. John Wright, singing and talking clown; James Brooks, high slack wire and balancing trapeze; the De Forest Bros. (Chas. and Harry), hand balancing and comedy barrel jumping; Geo. Adams, backward dive from a 22ft. ladder, and swinging perch; George Springer, with his trained llama and ponies . . . the Devello Sisters, swinging ladder and tight wire; Clara Lawrence and daughter, carrying perch . . . Joe Taylor, with "Highrontinus" . . . the Simmon Family Band and Orchestra, twelve in number, with J. M. Simmon, trombone; Mrs. J. M. Simmon, alto; Jessie Simmon, cornet; Josie Simmon, trap drums . . . Van Austin and Walter Moore will be property men; Harry Moore, in charge of ponies, and John B. Wright has charge of the dressing room. The show has been doing a nice business since the opening March 7.
Fletcher Smith, late of the Frank A. Robbins and Cole Bros. Shows, will be press agent this season with the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows, besides taking care of the banner advertising.
Jas. A. Morrow, now with the Barnum & Bailey Shows, has been in Texas and Old Mexico for the past four months, looking after his interest in Morrow's Minstrel Maids and Vienna Ladies' Orchestra Show.
A special musical feature with the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows this season is the Hamiton Family Concert Band . . . This band is an auxiliary attraction, and the New Model Concert Band, augmented by capable musicians, will again be under the leadership of Adam Gillespie. It is intended that the musical portion of the programme this season will be the best ever provided for the patrons of the New Model Shows.
H. N. Fry, of Fry's Big Roman Circus, has secured the services of ___ Ogden and his band for this season. The band is composed of some of the finest musicians in the business, and under the directionof Mr. Ogden will be a feature.
Notes from Ed. Barlow's Dog and Pony and Vaudeville Show. We open at our home and winter quarters, South Milford, Ind., April 25, and will tour Indiana and Illinois.
Sun Brothers' Shows Open. Under the most auspicious conditions, the Sun Brothers' Shows began their seventeeth annual tour at Macon, Ga., Tuesday afternoon, April 7. . . . The first event of the day was the special parade, all arranged for this special day. It was a colossal affair and one of the best arranged local parades ever seen on the streets of Macon. It was under the immediate supervision of the ___ Tribe, Mystic Shrine, of Macon. . . . The parade left Central City Park promptly at __ o'clock. It was made up of the following formation: a platoon of twelve mounted city policemen; the High Potentates of the local and visiting Shriners, all mounted on beautiful horses, and be-decked with regalia emblematic of this particular order; Gerlach's big show band of sixteen musicians; twenty-one automobiles containing Shriners, all wearing the red fez; a dozen burlesque and Mardi Gras vehicle features, all with comic characterizations pertaining to local hits; band wagon with ten musisicans; sixteen mounted men and women members of the show; eight two-horse cages, containing animals; a musical orchestrion wagon; another section of Shriners, mounted on horses; cavalcade of camels, dromedaries and elephants, all ridden by the chief officers of the Macon, Savannah and Atlanta Temples of Shriners; two dens of lions and tigers, a big bunch of led ponies and sacred cattle, followed by a band chariot with band of clown musicians. The parade was about five city blocks long, and was noticeable for the beautiful trappings, wardrobe and buntings. The public schools and many of the principal industrial shops closed down for the day, which added to the gathering, and the parade was received with the greatest enthusiasm all along the line.
The opening performance in the afternoon began promptly at two o'clock. The programme had been carefully rehearsed several days in advance, and a complete dress rehearsal had been given the night previous, so the performance was given without any tiresome waits, and was received in a most satisfactory manner. The show as arranged for this season is the very best that the Sun management ever placed together. The acts are all first class and are handsomely dressed. The programme is exploited in the good old way - one ring - one act at a time. There are, however, many big numbers and ensemble displays, which give it a spectacular appearance throughout. The following acts and people appeared at the Macon engagement: the Avollon Troupe, high tight-wire act and acrobatic display; the La Pasque Troupe, Tremplin triple bar act and return aerial display. (These acts are handled by Walter Linsley). The Liniger Trio, acrobatic act and triple ring display; Kenno and Goetz, comedy acrobats; Walter Ashbornes, troupe of dogs and ponies; the Coliseum elephants, handled by William Emery; Billy Maurice, hurdle mule rider; William O'Dale and Miss Eileen, in a diversity of equestrian and riding displays; Minnie Ashborne and menage horse; Michael ___ and Nat Goetz, feature physical culture act; Garrey and Adams, barrel jumpers; Belle Young, flying aerial ladder act . . . Francis J. Boyle and company, spectacular club jugglers and hoop rollers. . . . The "after show" and concert is presented by Jack and Belle Young, Fred Wright . . . Walter Ashborne and Sisters Ortans. The annex and supplementary show is again under the able direction of Dave H. Gillispie. . . . Madame Gillispie, mental marvel; Frank La Velle, latter day illusionist; Billie Alton, lady of the air; La Velle, modern ventriloquist; Gillispie's performing baboons; Moulton Bros. and Zellner . . . Prof. J. Erekson's exhibit of airships and models of the United States navy; Vera Tanguay, the reptilian girl; Gillispie's mammoth manikin and marionette production, and Astley's royal troupe of performing lions. In the department Prof. Boekur's monster orchestrion, a new electrical device, plays continuously.
The working bosses are as follows: James C. Cherry, master mechanic . . . William Randolph, boss hostler; George E. Lawrence, train master; J. (Frank) McCormick, manager of dining tents . . . Jos. Royal, barber; Joe Coyne, boss canvasman of annex; William Emery, superintendent of elephants and menagerie; John Johnson, J. Ziegler and Steve Vandiveer, principal eight and six horse drivers; George Boyd and Chas. Eikelberry, cooks . . . Jack Benson, stake and chain man; Albert Oleson, boss property man. Ticket sellers: M. (Forest) Bermann, J. P. McCormick, C. Boyle, Jack Young, William Doolley and J. J. Vaux; Michael Cahill, big show ticket wagon. Staff officers: George and Peter Sun, managing directors; George Sun, acting manager; Peter Sun, advance manager; William O'Dale, equestrian director; Charles Gerlach, musical conductor; D. Gillispie, annex and privilege manager . . . J. L. Springer, advance car manager; Clinton Newton, business agent back with show. . . . As during the past several seasons, no street parades will be given. The Macons parade will be the only one this season. The special free attractions each morning, before the opening of the annex doors, include Jules E. Boche, a sensational ski jumper; M. Cahill, cloud swing; Walter Ashborn's high diving dogs; series of daylight Japanese fireworks, and Prof. La Velle's comedy acts. The opening at Macons was a great success, and the most auspicious in the history of the Sun Show.
Josephine Sawyer, said to be the oldest chariot driver, died at her home in Norway last week. She was the wife of Edward Sawyer, and old time circus man. She came to America in 1850 and appeared at the Hippodrome, on the present site of the Fifth Avenue Hotel, New York City. Later she joined Barnum & Bailey's Circus.
New York Clipper, April 25, 1908, p. 270. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
George Spivens Again on Trial. At Sumter, S.C., on April 10, George Spivens, who was train master of Cole Brothers' Circus up to the time of his arrest, was placed on trial for the second time in the Circuit Court for the murder of James E. Galliard, deputy sheriff of Sumter County. Cole Brothers' Circus showed at Manning, S.C., on Oct. 5, 1906, and just before the departure of the circus train that night, James Galliard was shot in the abdomen and mortally wounded by one or more of the circus employees. Galliard died Oct. 7. On the day following the shooting, two men in the employ of the show, to wit, JackMcCoomer, alias "Campfire Bill," a negro cook and George Spivne, train master, were arrested in Bishopville, S.C., charged with the shooting og Galliard. They were put on trial in November of that year, and both were convicted of murder, with the recomendation to mercy, which fixed the penalty at life imprisonment, in the State penitentiary at hard labor. McCoomer was identified by eye witnesses as the man who did the shooting, and the evidence tended to show that Spivnes was present aiding and abetting. An appeal to the Supreme Court on the part of both defendants resulted in a new trial for Spivens, and an affirmation of the finding of the Circuit Court as to McCoomer. The latter is now serving his life sentence in the penitentiary at Columbia, S.C. On the second trial of Spivens the jury found a verdict of not guilty on April 11, 1908, and the defendant was immediately discharged from custody. Spivens hails from Indiana. The verdict seems to have met with popular approval, as the majority of the community never believed that Spivens had any part in the unfortunate affair.
___ Cook has joined King & Tucker's Railroad Show, doing his clown advertising, and he reports success. The show is touring the South, and business is good.
Daisy Barton, leading lady of the "___ and Jane" Co., was united in marriage to Harry J. Wallace, of the Wallace Bros.' Shows, in St. Marys, O., Monday evening, March 30.
Pacheco Family, acrobatic troupe, closed with the Barnum & Bailey Show last Saturday, and joined the Ringling Show, at Chicago, for the rest of the season.
The twelve elephants that have been appearing at the Hippodrome, New York, were shipped for Peru, Ind., Sunday, April __, to join the Wallace-Hagenbeck Circus, which opens May 2.
The Matterson Bros.' Union Shows, headquarters at Providence, will open May 21, in that city.
Perkins D. Brown, of Smyrna, Del., for two years with the Buffalo Bill Wild West Show, died in Smyrna recently, from tuberculosis of the throat, after a brief illness. He was formerly sergeant of Battery C. Light Artillery.
Carl Mayo, once an acrobatic clown with the John Robinson Circus, died at the Cincinnati Hospital, Cincinnati, O., April 10, from rheumatis. His body lay unclaimed. His relatives live in Germany, and it is believed his real name was Carl Grustall.
New York Clipper, May 2, 1908, p. 295. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Charles and William Meredith, who have been circus clowns for years, are said to be heirs in an estate valued at $2,500,000. Charles Meredith has been with the Cole Brothers' Circus for years, while William, his brother, went to Australia. Richard Blaine, an uncle, died about eight months ago, in Glasgow, Scot., and David Keating, a New York attorney, began a search for the Merediths. The father of the Meredith Brothers was a circus performer, and took them with him to Australia. Charles eventually came to this country and has been appearing here ever since, while his younger brother remained in Australia, where he was supposed to have died several years ago. While they knew of the existence of their uncle, they never knew of his enormous wealth.
Dr. H. M. Fry's One Ring Roman Circus, principally a pony and dog show, made its initial bow to the public in Johnstown, Pa., April 24. During the past two weeks the forces of the new circus have been assembling at "The Point," where rehearsals were preparing what bids fair to prove a good show. The Fry Circus will carry over fifty people. Points within a radius of one hundred miles of Johnstown will be visited first.
Adele Reno, of Reno and Bigar, trapeze performers with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, was hurt by falling from her trapeze to the ground, at the matinee Thursday, April 23, in Brooklyn. The accident was caused by the breaking of a rope that held one side of her trapeze. She struck on her head and shoulders and was carried senseless from the ring to the hospital tent. Mme. Reno appeared in company with her husband, Adolph Bigar, performing on a double trapeze. Bigar hangs from the upper trapeze, and by means of ropes, one in each hand, lowers his wife, who hangs, head down, from the second trapeze. Just as Mme. Reno reached the lower trapeze one of the ropes parted, she shot through the air and struck the ground head first.
Notes from Miller Bros.' 101 Ranch Wild West Show. We were at Ponca City, Okla., on April 14, and in Guthrie on April 15. In the former city the mayor declared a legal holiday, and at the latter place the legislature adjourned for the afternoon session, attending the performances in a body. The governor and his staff also attended in a body, as the guests of the Miller Bros.
Notes from the Great Wagner Show. We are all busy at present, getting everything in shape for our opening of 1908, which will be May 2. The show will be larger and stronger in performance than last season, as we will carry more people in all departments. Jolly Jenaro was in Chicago last week where he bought a fine pair of Shetland ponies which he will add to his herd. Our new canvas has arrived, and we will have a fine layout when the day of the opening comes.
Notes from Riggs Wild West Show. We have set our opening date for May _, owing to the panicky outlook for the season. We have strengthened our programme to about double that of former years, the management giving as reason the belief that the public will respond, no matter what the times, if they know they are getting big returns for their money. A cowboy quartette, a cowgirl quartette, and two sister teams have been added, making of the show a Wild West musical novelty, instead of purely Wild West, as in former seasons. All the people engaged are anxiously looking "to see the wheels go 'round."
Pawnee Bill's Sale. T. A. Smith, who conducts a transfer and hauling business at Beaver Falls, Pa., has just returned home from Pawnee, Okla., where he was attending the sale of Pawnee Bill's horses, and reports the greatest horse sale that has ever been held in the Southwest. He says: "There were ___ horses and ponies sold for a total of $19,650. The baggage stock averaged $171 per head. Much credit is due to John Queen, one of Oklahoma's best auctioneers, who always brought the last dollar. It was undoubtedly the largest crowd that ever attended a horse sale in Oklahoma. All the hotels were filled with showmen and horse dealers, that came from San Francisco to Liverpool, England. Among the most prominent people there were Col. F. T. Cummins, of Liverpool, Eng., who purchased forty head of ring stock, and who will export them to Europe, where his Wild West shows will be this summer.
"Lucil Mulhall, accompanied by her father, Col. Jack Mulhull, of Mulhull, Okla., purchased twenty head of fancy saddle horses for her own use. Campbell Bros. were on hand and purchased two Pullman sleepers for Campbell Bros.' Circus. Joe Miller, of Miller Bros.' 101 Wild West Show, took home with him four Philippine water buffaloes, one advertising and four flat cars for 101 Big Wild West Show.
During the sale Major G. W. Lillie (Pawnee Bill) made a statement that he is not retiring, but is simply disposing of all his old equipment in order to make room for his entire new outfit for the season of 1909. During my stay at Pawnee Bill's buffalo ranch, a representative of the ___ Pressed Steele Car Co., of Pittsburg, Pa., called and closed up a deal for fourteen new flat cars, all equipped with the most modern patent; two advertising cars, six baggage and five Pullman cars, making a whole train. I also had contracts to furnish 150 dapple gray horses that are to be second to none in the show business. I will spend the Fall and coming Winter to selecting this bunch."
Notes from the Yankee American Shows. Preparations for the opening of Carl M. Dalton's Yankee American Shows are progressing nicely, and everything will be in readiness before June 1, when we open at La Crosse, Wis. The show has an all new equipment of tents, seats, lights, and eight new wagons, making eighteen wagons besides two automobile touring cars, and a big automobile band wagon, equipped in the msot improved modern manner, and while the show travels overland it is the intention of Mr. Dalton to make it one of the best two ring shows on the road. The roster is as follows: Carl M. Dalton, manager; W. Lindeman, equestrian director; __ McVickers, press agent; James Murphy, principal clown; Doc Young, boss canvasman; Wm. B. Smith, boss property man; Hal Brown, chandelier man; the Tossing La Vernes, equilibrists; Weber Bros. (Theo. and Bill), double trapeze, contortion, and Roman rings; the Burckhart Family, acrobats; the Lindemans (Will and Millie), slack wire, bicycle and unicycle riders; Lillie La Roe, contortionist and equilibrist; the Aerial Baldwins (Jack and Edna), novelty gymnasts; Albert Lindeman, balancing trapeze and aerialist; Mme. Le Grand, breakaway swinging ladder; the Three Wilson, comedy acrobats and bars; Fred Wolfgren and Spike Mahanessy, revolving ladder; Dalton's troupe of dogs and ponies, and Gargo, the educated giraffe. . . .
The Lindemans, Will and Millie, riding bicycles and unicycles on a wire, will close with the "Ole Olson in ___" Co., May 5. They report having made a big hit through the West. After June 1 they go with the Yankee American Shows, where they will be the feature act.
The following people are signed for the Lee Bros.' Shows: Al. Steinmitz, agent; Hiram Titus, superintendent of canvas; Jack Doherty, superintendent of stock; Oscar Brengelmans, charge of dining tent; Joseph Sterling, superintendent of privileges; Hery Habershaw, press agent; Joseph Radcliffe, charge of platform shows, featuring Areoli, the Italian midget or living doll. Performers: Kale Bros., George Gagnon, Millie Sterlings, Johnston and Adell, Walter Higginbottom and a troupe of dogs and ponies.
New York Clipper, May 9, 1908, p. 322. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Sells-Floto Show roster. The following is a complete roster of the business and working staff of the Sells-Floto Shows and side show performers: Owners, Sells-Floto Co.; general manager, H. H. Tammen; general manager, H. H. Tammen; general counsel, Judge Dewitt C. Weber; manager with show, Frank Tammen; general agent, Col. Frank Robertson; legal adjuster, Tom Ryan; special representative, W. W. Parmlee; genral contracting agent, Geo. H. Heiser; twenty-four hour men, Jas. McLaughlin and Al. Lindley; route rider, Olin Essinger; press agent, Doc Waddell; press agent with show, Tom Myers; detectives, R. J. Coach Agency, Cleveland, O.; auditor, Thos. R. Perry; treasurer, Harry Moore; official stenographer, Jack Hathaway; equestrian director, Rhoda Royal; assistant, John Carroll; superintendent of lot, Chas. Sanders [Sauders?]; superintendent of stock, Ernie Houghton; assistant stock, Sid Lee; boss ring stock, Harry Seagerdorf; superintendent of canvas, Shanty Coleman; assistants, Geo. Swift, John Kennedy, J. Casey and J. Rodgers; superintendent of side show canvas, Jas. McClaren; superintendent of light, Geo. ___; assistant light, Walter Clark and Jas. Montez; superintendent of menagerie, Chris Zeitz; assistants, Shorty Allspaw, Dutch Perins; boss property man, Chas. Brady; assistants, Geo. Edge and Chas. Baker; superintendent of wardrobe, Mrs. Nellie Perry; assistant, Tom Milan; traffic superintendent, Harry Parrish; tran master, George Brown; assistant, Jack Bigger; superintendent of dining tent, William Neaf; assistant, Otto Cordes; chef, Ed. ___; first cook, George Douglas; second cook, Chas. Spencer; official butcher, Billy Riley . . . boss candy butcher, Wallace Moreland; chief doorkeeper big show, C. Kendall Johnson; assistants, . . . Warring Miller; balloon salesman, Doc Ziegler . . . head porter on train, Henry Appell; porters, Jack Harris, R. C. Tracy, Miles Burnett, Fred Burner, Joe Donnelley, Wm. Keith, Jim Brown, ___ Davis, Jas. Speed, Geo. Harris, Wolly Davis, Jim Melvin and Jim Copeland; manager reserved seats, Tom Ambrose; ticket sellers, Eddie Brown, Wm. Atkinson, Geo. Lee, ___ Daniels, ___ and Dick Golden; official artist, Geo. Garneil; assistants, Walter Wiggins, Peter Revere, Henry Lebowitz; manager concert and official announcer, Barney Shea. Side show or annex: W. H. McFarland, manager; Jack ___, assistant manager side show; Bill Harrington, ___, and Will McFarland, side show orators . . . Prof. Paige, lightning clay modeler; Gonzalles and Sister, Mexican knife throwers; Knife Hi Ki, the wild man; Labelle Carmen, dislocationist; Harry Harper's Concert Band and Georgia Minstrels, twenty-three in number; Ethel Delmar, Beatrice Leslie, Labelle Carmen, Lilly Harringten, Oriental dancers; Chas. Williams, Abadaliah Azeppa and Karo, the unique Egyptian musicians.
Car No. 1: W. M. Roddy, manager; Clif Guy, boss billposter; C. O. Tinsley, Joe Eble . . . Jack Davis . . . Al Torrell, W. Dickey, Wm. Burt, Parson Jackson, Bob Johnson and Harry Jones, assistants; Jack Burton, Wm. Morehead and Bill Corbell, lithographers; Chas. Moore and two assistants, banner men; Rudolph Lindwell, programmer; W. H. Ross, porter. Car No. 1, Opposition brigade: Walter ___, manager; Geo. Edmonds, boss billposter; Wm. Cuff, ___, Harry Mosher, Harry Zimmer, Chas. Reintger, Thos. Galbraith and Robert Myers, assistants; C. H. Harold, banner man, with two assistants; Geo. Edmondson, boss lithographer, with three assistants; W. Jordan, porter. Car No. 3: __ McMann, manager . . . Harry Thurman, Fred McKeand, Nick Turner, Frank O'Hara, Henry Jomes, Tom Cheveron, Wm. Ackey, Dave Springer, Billy Parrish, ___, and Dick Marsh, assistants; Pete Jackson, banner man, with two assistants . . .
Notes from Kemp Sisters Wild West and Indian Congress. The annual tour of this attraction will be one of the most important in the history of the organization. The show has been equipped with all new canvas, seats, etc. The roster of the show includes some of the most famous characters of the genuine West. There are fifty-seven genuine blanket Sioux Indians, headed by the mighty chief, "Keeps the Mountain," and the Indian Village will be one of the most important features of the show. We have just received a carload of Western horses, free from saddle mark and the ways of the arena. The West and Southwest has been searched for outlaw horses, and we now have twelve head of the wildest that could be found. In the lineup of cowboys and cowgirls will be found those who have in past seasons been the featrues with other shows of this character. The show will inaugurate its twenty-ninth consecutive season at Lamar, Mo., May 1 and 2. From that place we will sip, in a special train of six cars, to Louisville, Ky., where we open May 10 for two weeks at White City Auditorium, in conjunction with Creatore's Band. From Louisville the show goes to Lagoon Park, Cincinnati, O., for three weeks, after which will follow Trenton, N.J. for the same length of time. Then we will ship direct to Brighton Beach for an all summer run. The show will occupy the ground in front of the entrance to the race track, and running back to the board walk. There has been spared neither time nor money in the organization and equipment of the show . . . The show will carry one hundred head of picked stock, and a bunch of long horned steers. The season will extend far into the winter, and it is safe to predict that the Kemp Sisters will have one of the most prosperous years in the history of their show.
John Robinson's Big Shows Open. . . the opening festivities of the John Robinson Ten Big Shows at Cincinnati, O., April 26, and the week was one of disheartening conditions. From a temperature of 80 . . . the mercury fell below 40. Cold, rain, and a late heavy April snow storm all fell with disastrous consequences. In the face of these multiplied discouragements the grand army of stars of the tented world made a splendid impression. The big street parade was the best in the history of the old show - the climax of three generations of successful circus kings. Governor John F. Robinson has taken hold of the reins of management, and with John G. Robinson was in evidence at every performance.
After the opening tournament - a pageant of bright color - the ballet gives a divertissement. There are three rings and two stages, and in addition to these the outer course is the playground for a regiment of clowns. Chief among the celebrities who make up the roster of spangled and tinseld intent are: William De Mott, Albert M. Davenport, Gordon Orton, Irene French, Edna Davenport, Edna and Ollie Satterfield, May Vanderbilt, John and Annie Rooney, Misses Van, Farmer, Orton and Watson, Ab. Johnson and ___. Among the aerialists whose acts upon trapeze and other elevated apparatus are: the Five Flying Moores, Nellie Kimball, Jack Wizard, Misses Jennie, Irene and Leon, the Pratts, Marie Sterling, Clara Scott and Three Alvos. Dare Devil Salvo and his "Flying Leap to the Moon" was a stellar feature. The Hines, Kimball and Bert Lamont families of acrobats, the Kitamura Royal Troupe of Japanese Jugglers, the Brownies on the wire and ___ . . . Two Berdells, De Vawtes, Toki. Nizolek, the Two Renks, the Two Rixfords, Fred Welcome, Maud Inman, Al. Hamilton, the barrel jumper; Scott Sisters, on revolving globe; "Juggling" Fitzgerald and Nellie Hale, all contributed to great kaleidoscope of dazzling action.
W. Winston, with his performing seals, provided an interesting diversion. The trained elephants were put through their good acts by Miss Brown, Richard Jones, Homer ___ and George ___. Carl Nygard's presentation of an Arabian stallion was a graceful act. . . . Jack W. King and his Wild West outfit, Col. W. Spencer and his Sioux Indians, from the Rosebud agency, and Captain James French and his Rough Riders, put the finishing touches to a show that was crowded with action. The clowns were clever, and one stunt that went well was the athletic female - handsome in form and face - who swept up the ground with one harlequin who stumbled in her way, and then put the entire outfit to wild, ignominious flight. Fred Fisher is the equestrian director, and Ed. Cullen the man of affairs. James R. Robinson and Daniel Vernon fire department managers. Rudolph Gessley is still in the ticket wagon. John Lowlow, the veteran among clowns, is aiding the press work, which is in the good, competent hands of Jack Warren, formerly of the equine staff. James Casky is boss canvasman of the big show.
Col. Towers is again director of the side show, and the roster of attractions includes: ___ White, snake charmer; Al. Armers and wife, knife throwers; Sarah Van, fortune teller and mind reader; Mlle. Amy, sword swallower; Maud Franks, bag puncher; George Spencer, in novelty piano act; Carrie Scott, contortionist; Young Sandow, strong man; Marie ___, Barnum's fat girl, and Reid's Colored Band of fourteen people, musicians and dancers. . . . Despite the fearful weather conditions, the eighty-fifth season of the John Robinson's Shows, made a start that was artistically successful. On 29 Syrian Temple, Nobels of the Mystic Shrine, headed by Potentate ___ Keifer, paid their annual visit to the show, a compliment always paid to Noble John G. Robinson - John the Third, in the dynasty of sawdust kings.
New York Clipper, May 16, 1908, p. 348. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Riggs' Wild West Postpones Opening. The Jefferson Quartette, of Jefferson City, Mo., has signed with Riggs' Wild West Shows for the coming season. Owing to the cold and rainy weather the date of opening has been postponed from May 9 to 16. It will play Memphis seven days, then take the road, on one day stands.
The Matterson Bros., owners of the Union Shows, write: "Following is the roster of our show: Matterson Bros., proprietors and managers; Edward Tracy, treasurer . . . Chas. Little, boss property man; Jim Aldrich, charge of lights. The following performers have been engaged: Chas. Olchlayler, a European act of well trained ponies; Fred Darling's dogs and ponies; ___ and Russell . . . Oscar Turner, Lew Whitelaw, Diamond Bros. and Oscar Girard, as principal clown. We carry a 100ft. round top, two __ft. middle pieces; a 60ft. top and 40ft. middle piece, __ft. cook house, two horse tents, twenty-four baggage horses, twenty head of ponies, and Prof. Nick Spina's Silver Cornet Band of fourteen people. We open our season at Providence May 21, with a complete spread of new canvas, and it will be, in fact, a new show from top pin to bale ring, with a complete line of special paper. We don't claim to be the best, but as good as the best."
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. We opening the season at Marion, N.Y., Saturday, May 2, to two crowded tents, despite the fact that the weather was unfavorable, and a snow storm kept the country folks at home. The performance was excellent, individual hits being made by Zech and Zech, aerialists; __ Reynard, trick cyclist; Prof. Snyder's performing animals, including his trained bears; Al. F. Wheeler's performing dogs, and Prince ___, the wonderful talking horse. There was plenty of comedy furnished by the oldest and youngest clowns in the world. Albert Gaston and Al. F. Wheeler Jr., and Wm. Trout, with his hurdle mule. The concert features included the Wheeler Children, Allison and Leland, in a character change and dancing act; Albert Gaston, Bell and Smith, and the Hamilton Family Band. The side show did a big business, and pleased. The parade was bright and attractive, and Prof. Adam Gillespie's Concert Band rendered splendid music. The show played Newark, N.Y., 4, and again the tents were packed. All in all, the opening stands were entirely satisfactory, and prospects bright for a successful season.
James Brooks, wire performer, opened with Jones' Enormous Shows, at Montgomery, Ala., March 7. This is his eighth year with that organization. His high rope ascension is a special feature for the free attraction.
Daniel S. Vernon, circus man, died May _, in Cincinnati, O., from typhoid fever. He was fifty-four years old and for twenty years had been manager and treasurer of Robinson's Circus.
Opening of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. Circus lovers in the country surrounding Peru, Ind., turned out in large numbers for the opening of the Carl Hagenbeck and Great Wallace Shows Saturday night, May 2. The weather, for a week previous to the opening, had been such as to cause the circus people to congratulate themselves on the change of date from April 25 to May 2. Although the weather conditions were against it, the tents were crowded to capacity both afternoon and evening. A complete new outfit of tents, etc., new feats of animal training, bareback riding, aerial and acrobatic work, in additon to many clever clowns, made the opening a date long to be remembered. A great deal of talk was caused by the costuming of the show, and much wonder displayed at the maginficent way in which the acts and the paraders were dressed. Not only were the performers georgeously costumed, but the blankets and trappings of the animals were beautiful. This feature alone could only have been obtained at great cost.
The exhibition was composed of feature acts in the ring, on the stages, in aerial work, and furnished many things new and startling. The only possible objection was that it was almost impossible to see everything, and one hated to lose a single thing. A steel arena, in the centre ring, is sued for the showing of the Hagenbeck trained wild animals. A wooden runway connects with the menagerie tent. The band is still headed by Prof. W. N. Merrick, and the musicians have been carefully selected. Mr. Merrick has had many years experience with musical organizations, and says that the present combination pleases him better than any he has made. The soloists were of the highest class.
The various acts included the following: Hagenbeck's trained animals, Bert Delno, Fred Picard and the Adair Bros., in a double aerial act; Clarence Stokes, George Rathbun, George Smith and Pearl Wilson, in aerial work; Winnie Sweeney, Lulu Davenport and the Bedini Sisters, in bareback riding; Reuben Castang's trained leopard who rides a horse; Hagenbeck's elephants . . . clowns led by Art Adair and Fred Jenks; the De Kochs, equilibristic work; Tasmanian Troupe, acrobats; Cecile Fortuna, Onita Faber, Emma Donovan and stella Miaco, flying rings and trapeze; Art and Dot Adair, ladder act; Hotura and Kawara Troupe, perch act; Bedini Family, riding; Reno McCree and Lulu Davenport, riding; Matsumata, contortionist; Great Dracula, contortionist; Ida Miaco, contortionist . . . the Deverns, double trapeze contortion act; the Bersini Troupe, globe work; Willie Kennard; Keshi and Mme. Corellis, globe work; the Thelaros Troupe, dogs, ponies and donkeys; Joe Litchell and Grace Jenks, double equestrian act; Carrie Norenberg, high school horse; Sadie Connors, high school horse; Anita Faber, horse and trap; Ida Miaco and John Fuller, saddle display; Madame Bordini, high school horses; Corellis, acrobatic feats; Kennard Bros., acrobatic feats; Plamondon and Amondo and the Kelly Bros., mid-air feats; Van Diemans, devil's wheel; Joe Litchell, Shorty Maynard and Everett Hart, clown mule riding . . . the novel hippodrome races concluded the performance.
Phil Ellsworth is once more the manager of the side show, Harry Cramer, assistant manager, and Charlie Mack, Fred Griffin and Louis Smyth, ticket sellers. The side show attractions include: Prof. Lowery's Sunflower Minstrels and Creole Belles, Victor Basil, the vegetable king; Mahel Vernon, with a troupe of trained cockatoos; Queen Sabro, who walks on the blades of swords; Grace Cortland, second sight; Nellie King, musical act; Louisa Excello, "Plastic Venus"; Jessie Franks, bag puncher; Millie Loto, snake charmer; Lamar and Sadie, an expose of opium smoking . . . Leech and Vance, wire artists and jugglers . . . the Thompsons, human ___ and tattooed wonders; Dora Harris, vocalist, with "She," the sensational dancer.
The executive staff is: B. E. Wallace, sole owner and general manager . . . E. E. Meredith, press agent; C. H. Sweeney, equestrian director; Bert Cole, announcer; W. N. Merrick, musical director; John Hamilton, purchasing agent . . . Thomas Doring, superintendent of transportation; Robert Abrams, superintendent of stock; Harry Sells, boss property man . . . and Arthur Davis, assistant caterer. The advance staff is: W. Franklin, general agent; J. Fagan, railroad contractor; Fred Wagner, Fred Morgan, local contractors; Harry Earl, press agent and assistant to the general agent; ___, W. Haines, twenty-four hour men; foster Burns, car No. 1; Dave Jarrett, car No. 2; George ___, car No. 3; and W. Menifee, checker-up.
New York Clipper, May 23, 1908, pp. 372, 373. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Cole Bros.' World Toured Shows have been meeting with excellent success. The show opened its season at Pittsburg, Pa., May 4. Although the day was most disagreeable, two capacity audiences greeted the aggregation . . . There are forty-three displays, each a feature in itself. The Flying De Novas, the Ellets, the Alpine Family, Collins and Sawdello, the Seven Delameads and the Five Romanoffs are but a few of the many feature acts. Mike Rooney, Robinson and Hill, Miss Costello, Bertha Welland, W. J. Sanger, Mlle. Sufre, Ekin and Hillson, Misses Simpson, and Lee and John Jenks feature th riding acts; while the mule hurdlers and hippodrome cart acts complete a riding contingent that is hard to excel. The Franks, headbalancers; Mlle. Ritchie, contortionist; Draga, contortionist; Lee, sailor swing; Edna Wentworth, Roman aerial ladder; Jacobs and Sardelle, barrel jumpers, and fifteen others, are the attractions offered during the performance in the aerial enclave. In reality, the big top is crowded from the entree until the races hold sway. A system of weekly prizes among the race riders has done much to stimulate interest, and as a result the speed contests are given in a whirlwind fashion that brings spectators upon their feet, so realistic are the races.
The free street parade is another feature that has received the same careful attention that predominates throughout every departemnt. The parade dress and accoutrements are all entirely new, and the procession, a compact mass, is exactly one mile long. It is this feature that has been so well received, and one which promises much for the performance. Hence the record crowds even in districts where money stringency has been felt keenly. There are but few changes in heads of departments since last season, and Harry Clark is again back with the show as principal clown. He has forty-one assistants, and an entirely new programme is offered.
From the Norris & Rowe Circus. Opening their season on March 18, the greater Norris & Rowe Circus has been playing to the best business in the history of the show in California, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. The weather has been particularly fine, but little rain having been encountered. The following people are with the show: R. H. Dockrill, equestrian director; the Peerless Potters, the Honey-Mora troupe of aerialists; the Waldorf Family, the St. Leon Family, the Sugomoto Troupe of Japanese, the Orton Troupe, the McDonald Family, bicyclists; Rose Dockrill, Ada Castello, Dolly Miller, Charlotte Deere, Adelaide Webb, Dave Castello, Frank Miller, Horace Webb, George Holland, Ben Lucier, Mickey ___, Toto Ducrow, Geo. Setler, Bud Merritt, "Fat" Lawson, Lew Berg, Fogg and Agler, Bill Tafe, Silver Smith, Herbert Rumley, Harry Hickey, Tony Cobb, Doc. Miller, and a band of twenty-six pieces, under the direction of Professor Betz.
The side show is under the management of Walter A. Shannon, and the following take part in the programme: "Pop" Adams' Georgia Minstrels (sixteen in number), Zip, the missing link; Bill Doss, the human telescope; South Sea Island Joe and his wife, ___; the spotted or leopard family; Chief Pebro and wife; Esquimos; Montana Jack and wife, impalement act; Professor Hermann, magician; Celeste, snake enchantress; John Massie, lecturer and punch; Captain White, front door.
The business staff for Norris & Rowe is: H. S. Rowe, general manager; C. I. Norris, chancellor; Ed. C. Warner, general agent; Joseph Geisler, treasurer; J. H. B. Fitzpatrick, "a little of everything"; Bob Clements, local contractor; Josh Billings, special agent; Chas. G. Henry, opposition brigade; J. Stuart, manager car No. 1; Herman Q. Smith, manager advertising car No. 3; Geo. (Cupid) Dynan, twenty-four hour man; Geo. Wormald, boss canvasman; Herbert Rumley, superintendent menagerie; C. W. Williams, train master; Al. Henderson, boss props; __ Lee, boss hostler; Jas. Morrison, superintendent privileges; Curtis Ruckert, superintendent lights; Geo. Dibben, steward.
Sun Bros.' Progressive Show notes. The Sun Show is in its sixth week of the current season, and is enteraining the dozens of the delightful towns of the Blue Grass section of old Kentucky. Here is a section of territory that is always the great delight of the tented showman. The officials are courteous to a high degree, the citizens in general are steadfast show-goers, and invariably the most appreciative auditors it is possible to gather under canvas. The new show arranged by the Sun management is free from all crudities, and is working in a highly satisfactory manner. Georgetown and ___ (both in Kentucky), accorded the show fine business, and the merchants of both towns claim that they had a banner day business. William Connors has been added to the programme, and his acrobatic rebounding wire act is proving to be a big card. Mr. Connors is also doing a new and clever hurdle mule riding act, which is also going big. The Charles Ellet company of triple bar performers, and Mendoza and Williams, comic musican clowns, are also new additions. The La Pasque Troupe and Ashborn's comedy dogs closed at Chattanooga, Tenn., recently. William O'Dale, billed as the "Adonis Equestrian," is riding in his usual great shape, and his new five horse act is working without a flaw. Col. Gillispie, with his supplementary and annex shows, claims that "hard times" have as yet, not affected his business. The "colonel" is daily wearing a smile. All departments of his excellent show are moving finely, and the programmes presented give eminent satisfaction.
Notes from the Oscar Lowande Great Bay State Shows. We are in our third week, playing to packed audiences every performance. We carry a seventy foot round top, with two thirty foot middle pieces, seating about 1,200 people. This show is the greatest one ring show on the road today, with three big feature acts. The roster includes: the Tally-Ho act, with eight people and four ___; Oscar Lowande, in his principal somersault act, closing with a somersault from one horse to another while runing tandem; Wm. Jameson, in a bounding jockey act; Harry Jordan, in sensational feats on rings and trapeze; Leo Ferro, revolving perch; Sims Brothers, hand balancing; a novel acrobatic act by the Carons . . . Fred Stelling and dog, comedy act; Day and Jordan, revolving ladders; Wm. Jameson, the greatest of all one ring clowns; Mrs. Oscar Lowande, principal act, with Mrs. Wm. Jameson, ring master; a burlesque two horse carrying act by Caron and Sims. We carry a fourteen piece band. We have four weeks more on the road, and then open at Nantasket Beach for twelve weeks, then open at the New York Hippodrome with Oscar Lowande's Tally-Ho and principal somersault act for twelve weeks. Everybody is enjoying the best of health.
Notes from Chas. Bartine's Consolidated Shows. The show will open at Connersville, Ind., June 4. The outfit for this season will be entirely new, from cook tent to the top of the centre poles of the big top. All our tents are new, and will be waterproof. The big top is 90ft., with two 30ft. middle pieces; dressing room 40ft.; two horse tents, 32x50 and 28x40, and cook tent 16x30. The band wagon, ticket wagon, advance wagons and cook and chandelier wagons are all decorated in the most artistic manner with life sized animals, painted by two of the best artists. The baggage wagons and carry-all are painted green and highly decorated in gold and red, and are built light,for wagon show purposes, and a neater and prettier lot of wagons never went on the road. The show will use forty head of baggage and work stock. The following people have already been booked: Ollie Smith, leader of band of ten mothpieces; the Two Keelers, Lewado Bros., Ireland Sisters, Albert Davis, Willie, Ruth and Elva Bartine, Hick Guise, Lonny Lampe, Will Henry and Willie De Var, with others to follow. Our territory will be Indiana, Ohio and Illinois.
Roster of advertising car No. 1, Gollmar Bros.' Circus: Wm. H. Delly, manager car; John Carr, boss bill poster; F. C. Harris, lithographer; Tom Gavney, programmer. Bill posters: W. H. Marlin, H. Howard, Vern Godfrey, Zeak Mawhood, John Sanders, Willard Chaffin, H. Winslow, L. J. Hart, Geo. Ferrell, F. Sammon and D. F. Worthington.
Notes from Lombard's Imperial Shows. We open our summer season, under canvas, in Apponang, R. I., Tuesday, May 19. Roster: J. G. Lombard, manager; Mrs. J. G. Lombard, treasurer; Billy Stevens, agent; A. H. Staples, superintendent; ___, traps and bars; Harry H. Belmont, singing and knockabout clown; Florence Julian, flying rings; Harry Gordon, Dutch comedian; Fred Hassman, musical act, and Taylor, the handcuff king. Prof. Swartwood's Concert Band and Orchestra will furnish the music. We play three nights and week stands, and look forward to a very prosperous season.
Notes from Horne's Zoological Arena. We are very busy at the present time getting our animal show ready for its summer tour through Canada and the Northwestern Territory, and are putting out the highest class as well as the best looking animal show in America. We will carry eighty head of performing animals, including our latest importation of Royal Bengal tigers. As soon as the show is out, we will give our entire attention to our wild animal importing business, which we expect to make the largest of that line in America. We already have seven branch houses in the United States, Mexico and South America, and these are only a starter.
New York Clipper, May 30, 1908, pp. 397, 398. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Mannert's Circus and Trained Aminal Show opened its season in Providence, R.I., May 21, playing to encouraging business afternoon and evening. A clean, entertaining bill was presented, the star act being an acrobatic turn by the Azards. The Mannert's is a twenty wagon show, which intends to tour New England States this summer. It wintered in Cranston, R.I. There are forty-two employees, all told, with C. T. Phenix, well known in the profession through forty-two years of circus life, as superintendent. Mr. Phenix has been with Sautelle's and other well known outfits. Charles Oelschiagel is equestrian director, and has a clever team of six Shetlands, which he has trained in fifteen weeks, and which were given their first work before the public at the opening, responding in a creditable manner. George Ritz is in charge of a dog act, which embraces about ten canines. The show plays Providence all week of 25, moving to Warren and Bristol, R.I., for a day each, to Fall River for three days, and to New Bedford for three days.
Col. Wm. F. Cody (Buffalo Bill) celebrated, in Washington, D.C., on May 19, his twenty-fifth anniversary as an exhibitor of typical American wild life. The anniversary performances of Buffalo Bill's show were attended by members of the president's family, by Gen. Eugene A. Carr, Gen. Wesley Merritt and twenty other general officers of the army with whom Col. Cody served in the early days on the Western plains, and by cabinet officers, senators and representative of Congress and officials of all branches of the government.
Note from Leon W. Washburn's Circus. New Jersey's weather man has lately given every evidence that he no longer enjoys the favor of Old Sol and fair weather. Or it may be that he hopes to drive tented amusements out of the State by handing them frosty April rain and cold a month after such weather was due. If the latter guess is the correct solution of his kindness, his purpose has dismally failed, in so far a Leon W. Washburn's Circus is concerned. During the first three weeks of May, Mr. Washburn's shows enjoyed only four clear and warm days, rain and cold filling in the remainder of the time. The opening day, May 2, in Bound Brook, N.J., was decidedly cold, and personal discomforts were further increased in the evening by a drizzling rain. The following Thursday the elements prevented both performances in Cranford and Mr. Washburn lost the matinee the next day in Elizabeth. At every stand where performances have been given business has been tip-top with the big show, concert and side show. In fact, Mr. Washburn has no reason for believing there is anything in the "hard times cry" of other managers, and business men generally. Plainfield, Orange, Summit and Morristown packed the big top to the ring bank, and the other stands greatly exceeded expectations.
M. W. Gilman, special contracting agent of Campbell Bros.' Circus, writes that while his brigade was billing Duluth they covered one brick wall holding 964 sheets of paper. Swing chairs and painter's ladders were very much in evidence and created a great deal of interest. Chas. Manrose and W. A. Brown were the billposters who covered the wall.
W. Bryson, late manager of Murphy & Gibson's Minstrels, on the steel pier, Atlantic City, has signed as general contracting agent of Brown Bros.' Big Railroad Show. Mr. Bryson writes: "The show opens the season at Hamilton, O., June 8, and plays one three night and week stands. The route will embrace Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. We have a ninety foot top, with two sixty foot middle pieces. We travel in our own private cars, two Pullman sleepers and three baggage and stock cars. Everything is in readiness for the opening, and we look forward to a prosperous season."
A new circus, known as the Sutton Bros.' Circus, started from Peru, Ind., opening at Denver, Ind. It is a one ring show, and will travel by wagon route.
Chas. Bartine Show notes. The following people have just signed for the season: Daisey Lawrence's dogs and ponies and trick mules, R. A. Bell and family . . . the Hurberts, Carl Nemo, John Fudge, Jno. Hall . . . and Billy Nash. Lee and Taylor, musical jugglers and wire performers; Jorjorck and Wallen, Carl Nemo, barrel jumpers and hand balancers; Johnny Disborough, Billy ___, ___ Cappelle, talking, singing and trick clowns. All the paraphernalia is now complete. Mr. Bartine recently purchased snow white ponies (beauties) for the second advance wagon. Everything now is in first class shape, and ready for the opening.
Notes from the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows. For two weeks we have had rain and snow, and roads hub deep in mud to contend with, but every stand has been made on time and not a performance has been missed. Business, considering the weather, has been satisfactory, unusually good, considering the fact that the show is in new territory, but the reputation already established in New York State stood us in good stead, and now with bright weather and good roads, business is increasing daily. The show this season is giving great satisfaction, and a feature act has been developed in Captain Snyder's comedy bears, who perform remarkable stunts. It is the strongest feature ever seen with the New Model. The trick cycling act of A. D. Reynard, and the aerial work of the Zech Trio, are also prominent features of an unusually strong performance. The band, under the direction of Prof. Adam Gillispie, is playing all new music, and the Hamilton Family Band is a strong concret feature. Charles Eldridge Griffin is getting results with the side show, and Fletcher Smith, with his advertising banners and announcements, gets plenty of business every day. The show this season will play all new territory, but business in bad weather has been entirely satisfactory. We played Watkins and Pen Yan, N.Y., to well filled tents in a pouring rain, and although the last wagons did not get in until 2 o'clock, two complete performances were given. Four new head of stock have been added, making a total of seventy. The "New Model" is better equipped this season than ever before, and even the opposition of the elements has not, as yet, interfered with the business. Zech and Zech, aerialists, are in their seventh season with these shows. The Hamilton Family Band is featured this season by manager Wheeler. Albert Gaston, America's oldest clown, is as big a favorite as ever. This is his fifth season with the New Model.
Notes from Billy Nelson's wagon, with Miller Bros.' 101 Ranch Wild West. This show, featuring the big foot boy and Kilo, the human frog, has been doing a land office business through the West, since the opening at Ponca City, Okla., April 14, and has all good time ahead.
Coney Island Hippodrome Circus. The latest permanent circus, the Coney Island Hippodrome Circus, will open on Decoration Day, at Coney Island, N.Y. This latest addition to the numerous places of amusement that have made Coney Island famous, is situated on Surf Avenue, between Twentieth and Twenty-first Streets, and will be held under an immense canvas. The lot on which the Hippodrome Circus has been erected has a frontage of 260 feet on Surf Avenue, between Twentieth and Twenty-first Streets, and runs back to the ocean a depth of 750 feet. This lot has been graded and covered with cinders, so that there will be no dust or mud. On it has been erected a mammoth tent, with a top 430 feet long and 180 feet wide, enclosing an arena of 77,400 square feet. This arena has been divided into an auditorium running around the four sides of the tent in true circus fashion, with a seating capacity of ___ seats. In the centre of the tent are three rings and two stages, separated from the seats by the hippodrome track.
The seat will be as comfortable and fixed as those of the modern theatre, and special care has been taken in their arrangement so that all parts of the vast arena can be seen from every seat. The grounds and tent of the Hippodrome Cricus are to be brilliantly lighted at night, in a picturesque and attractive manner. In keeping with the circus atmosphere of this entertainment, there will be no box office, but the tickets will be sold from the familiar old red ticket wagon. This wagon is 24ft. long, with ten ticket windows. The management announce a genuine old fashioned circus parade daily at Coney Island, in which a prominent place will be given to the large steam calliope.
The bill for the opening week is announced as follows: the Nelson Family of English acrobats, from the London Hippodrome; Prof. Bristol's troupe of performing ponies, George Holland's bareback and high school riding acts, the Five Flying Moores, the latest sensation, the "Devillos," in their death defying automobile act; Adele Nelson, queen of the air; "The Merry Widow Waltz," on horseback; the "Human Butterflies," a spectacular aerial ballet; John G. Robinson's famous traiend elephants; Mlle. Rose Edyth, premier danseuse, and her French ballet; ___'s performing seals and sea lions, Captain French's Wild West rough riders and genuine Sioux Indians, in series of sports and incidents of life on the plains, and fifty other wonderful and entertaining circus and hippodrome acts.
Erleslie Gilpin, an employee of Frank A. Robbins' Circus, died in the General Hospital, Utica, N.Y., last week, aged fifty-one years. He was an old time circus man.
Norman G. Green, formerly with the Barnum & Bailey Circus as a living skeleton, died May 13. He was a native of Grand Rapids, Mich. His wife survives him.
New York Clipper, June 6, 1908, p. 422. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Campbell Bros.' Shows opened their season at Fairbury, Neb., April 25, and since then have experienced good business and delighted patrons in spite of snow, rain, hail and mud. The show is in reality bigger than ever before, and can rank with all the circuses in the country as being complete in every detail. The programme of the show follows:
First Event: Grand entry and tournament. Second Event: clown song by Raliegh Wilson. Third Event: statuary act by the Seven Cornallas. Fourth Event: Leaps. Fifth Event: two horse carrying act by Orrin and Nettie Hollis, in Ring 1, and Chas. Barnett Barnett and Daisy Miller in Ring 2.
Sixth Event: feats in hand balancing and contortion work . . . Otto Weaver and Chas. Bray, in the centre, and backward ladder drops by ___ and HIcks, on the stage.
Seventh Event: aerial acts, double trapeze, by Biship Bros., Crandell Bros., Two ___, swinging ladder by Delta Woods; Roman rings by Chas. Bray and Dan Lohta. Eighth Event: three troupes of trained elephants, led by N. T. Clark (Texas), in both rings and track, and Bray's acrobatic dogs on stage.
Ninth Event: equestrian act, Orrin Hollis, in Ring 1, and ?. Crandell, in Ring 2. Tenth Event: upside down balancing, foot juggling and posturing, by Coe and Sinko, ___ and Art Lind, in Ring 1; Gus Lind and Arthur Forbes, in Ring 2, and Lew Hamilton, comedy barrel jumping, on stage. Eleventh Event: unsupported ladders by Arthur Forbes, Geo. ___ and Art. Lind, and Japanese foot perch, in Ring 1 by Coe and Sinko, Mizuno and Kiknehl and Ide Mizuno, in Ring 2.
Twelfth Event: novelty tight wire acts by Harry and Clara Bray, and Geo. and Althea O'Dole . . . and slack wire, in Ring 1, by Jessie Weaver, and Ring 2 by Otto Weaver. Thirteenth Event: acrobatic acts. Ring 1, Four lorettas; stage, Four Lamy Bros. . . . Fourteenth Event, comedy mule hurdle acts by Chas. Barnett in Ring 1, and Wm. Wallace, in Ring 2, with an army of clowns all over the arena.
Fifteenth Event: aerial return and casting acts by the Four Lamy Bros. Sixteenth Event: comedy revolving and breakaway ladders, by Bishop Bros. . . . and the clowns presenting some new conceits of fun making. Seventeenth Evert: Capt. Dimitri's Troupe of Russian Cossack rough riders. Eighteenth Event: grand revival of Royal Roman Hippodrome races.
Clown roster: Raleigh Wilson, principal; W. Donahugh, W. David, Ed. Allen, Ed. Boggs, Shorty Roberts, Wm. Wallace, Chas. Barnett, ___ and Keller, Lew Hamilton, Bishop Bros. . . .
Fred Hatfield is equestrian director, and the show runs with much smoothness and snap under his sole direction. Ted Hill, calliope player, Judd Marsh, parade director; Chas. Frank, with twelve assistants, on the cook houses; Johnny Mack, boss canvasman . . . W. Cox, chandeliers. . . .
Notes from Gollmar Bros.' Greatest of American Shows. The show opened at Baraboo, Wis., May 2, and although the weather was against us, we did an enormous business. Following is a complete roster of the show: Chas. Gollmar, manager; B. F. Gollmar, treasurer; Walter Gollmar, equestrian director; Fred Gollmar, railroad contractor; H. Writs, assistant equestrian director; Dr. Tryon, press representative; Prof. Dell Smith, director of first band; B. Gaskill, director of second band; Lew Aronson, manager annex; Ed. Jamison, chief of commissary; John White, front door; Geo. Holland, boss hostler; Bert Kratz, assistant boss hostler; Emery Stiles, boss animal man; R. A. Altman, boss props, with fifteen assistants; Bert Noyes, assistant animal man; Geo. Parsons, charge of privileges; Frank Dial, manager of transportation; John Slater, principal clown, with the following assistants: Tom Murray, Frank Pike, Geo. Wyman, Bert Smith, Jacob Beach, Phil Keeley, ___ Brown, Ed. Young, Dick Vann, Geo. Kelley, Harry Scott, John De Turk and Jim Woodsworth. Roster of dressing room: Five Flying Nelsons, aerial act; Maxwell Nelson-Hill troupe, aerial bars; Alden Potter, menage act; Famous Hayden Family, wire act; Roy Spiker, rough riding . . . Emery Stiles, elephant act (fourteen in number), the largest elephant act in the world today; A. J. Bong, with thirty-five assistants, producing the thrilling spectacle, "Fighting the Flames"; Lizzie Rooney, principal act; Chas. Rooney, principal act; Peter Nelson and wife, double trapeze and Roman rings; the World Renowned Smiths, wire act; Rench and De Turk, revolving ladder, and Eddie Rooney, bounding wire. Musicians in first band: Dell Smith, director; Frank Spencer, cornet; Harry Johnson, cornet; R. Ashenback, cornet; ?. D. Johnson, clarinet; Bert Keller, clarinet; R. Moore, clarinet; Louis Sandoz, clarinet; Walter Corins, baritone; Shelby Yucan, bass; W. Mosler, drums and bells; Chas. Wade, bass drums; F. Van Dusen, trombone; Jay ___, trombone; ?. Larson, solo alto; Milton Gaines, alto; Gust. Kaye, alto. Musicians in the side show band: ?. Goskill, director, cornet; F. Frasler, bass; James Mortley, trap drums; William Bentley, alto; Lester Green, alto; Harry ___, trombone; John Oman, trombone; Harold Emfree, clarinet. Side show people: Len Aronson, manager . . . Doc. Chapman, third box; Charles La Noire, musical act; Marie, needle eating; the Cliffords, sword swallowing; James Morris, elastic skin; Roy Lamee, vocalist . . . Prof. Steuritz, tattooed wonder. Other people with the show are: Tom Allen, Dan Jenkins, Pete Gollmar, A. H. Parsons, Art Boyd, w. Galloway and Wm. De Van. "Dutch" Norwalk has charge of the canvas, with three assistants and one hundred men. James Maxwell, one of the Flying Nelsons, continues to mystify the audiences by turning three complete somersaults, and it is safe to say he is the only one in the world today who has successfully accomplished this feat. Roy Spiker is doing some astonishing feats in rough riding. The Manzeans come in for their share of applause, and are doing marvelous work this season. They have ten in the act, and produce a positively new and extraordiary acrobatic act, doing four high and a complete double somersault from one foot to the other. The Smith Family are also winning laurels with their wire act. Peter Nelson and wife are "aerialists supreme," in their double trap and rings. The Haydens, in their high wire act, are one of the added attractions, and their act is too well known to need further comment. John Slater and his host of fun-makers still continue to keep the audiences good natured. Every one of them have gone through the alphabet of experience, and their novel stunts are a decided hit. . . .
Notes from the Al. F. Wheeler Shows. . . . Moravia, N.Y., last Monday gave us two packed tents, and the show gave great satisfaction. Genoa, Tuesday, and inland town that had the Van Amburg Show thirty years ago, was a veritable find, and the villiage was overflowing with ruralites. They saw everything, and most of them stayed for the evening performance. At ___, Wednesday, we found a big contingent from Wells Female College awaiting us, and it was a big day for the young ladies. They filled the reserved section to overflowing, and had a real lively time. It was a great day for Albert Gaston and Wm. Trout, and they certainly made good. It was one of the best days of the season. Union Springs was another big day, and Cayuga, a small lake resort, gave us two good crowds Friday. At Savannah on Saturday, despite strong opposition in Decoration Day sports, the tents were packed and the show made a big hit. Since "Old Sol" has consented to come out and shine the New Model has followed suit and wagons that were hidden with coatings of mud are now looking spick and span, and the parade is in keeping with the weather. The show is now heading for last season's territory, and will spend the next few weeks in Western New York. . . .
Notes from the Barnum & Bailey Shows. Bandmaster Jewell of the Barnum & Bailey Shows, was presented with a handsome baton by members of the band on his birthday, May 28, during the Boston engagement. Although this is Mr. Jewell's first season with the "Greatest on Earth," he has already succeeded in gaining an enviable reputation in organizing one of the finest circus bands in the world, and is accepted as a great feature of the Barnum & Bailey performance. The preliminary concert given by the band during the one hour preceding the opening of the performance, as well as the gay and popular music with which the exhibition is punctuated is a matter of comment and persistent praise. The following, compromise the roster of the band. Chas. Kellman, flute and piccolo; P. H. Pfeffer, E flat clarinet; Ed. Nygard, L. M. Williams, Roya Anderson, Erdell Mutchler, Joseph Ginty, John Jarosch, Wm. McKay, Harvey and Walker, E flat clarinets; A. Kassbarr, oboe; Frank Leonardi, bassoon . . . ?. S. Graves, tenor saxophone; J. J. Richards, ___, Chas. Mendenhall, E. F. Adams, cornets; Floyd Clifford, Wm. Junod, trumpets; Chas. Wetterman, Roy Gibson, Thos. ___, M. Willis, horns; C. Dayton, J. J. Caldwell, H. W. Wingert, trombones; Forrest Mendenhall, Otto Deming, baritones; W. P. English, Herbert Kendale, basses; Thos. Dehle, ___; Earl Dayton, drum; Oliver Payne, tympanies, and Frederick Alton Jewell, conductor.
Notes from Leon Washburn's Shows. Despite an all day rain, Leon Washburn's Shows were liberally patronized Decoration Day, in New Rochelle, N.Y. The vigilant humane society representatives in that city, after careful inspection of the horses and ponies, warmly praised manager Washburn for the excellent condition of his stock. "Nyack" is the name bestowed upon a spotted Shetland colt born Sunday with Leon Washburn's Circus. . . .
Mlle Excela, late of the Sisters Excela, has recovered from a serious illness, and is with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus, doing a novelty act. Mlle. Excela and Jessie Franks, the "Physical Culture Girl," will join hands at the close of the season and introduce a novelty act. They will be known as the Misses Excela and Franks, "The Girls in White."
Notes from car No. 1, John Robinson Shows. We are prospering and all are well. We are all rejoicing over escaping the cyclone weather in the South. The roster: L. Beckman, car manager and press representative; H. Hopper, solicitor for official programme; W. (Hop) Adams, boss bill poster; Harry Newman, boss lithographer; R. McCarry, assistant lithographer; Geo. Brubaker, programme; H. King, A. Anderson, C. Abbott, ?. Veeder, W. Bernhardt, F. McConough, ___, R. Rogelson, M. Ipp, bill postesr; Walter Ray, steward; M. Pearce, porter and paste maker.
__ Newell, manger of the Orioff Troupe, writes from Mexico as follows: "The Orioff Troupe has joined the Circo Trevino in Mexico, and contrary to reports that have been circulated in the United States, I found that the show was in as good a financial condition as it has ever been in. Performers can take my word for that, as far as I can see, everything is O.K. here."
Mrs. Elizabeth Stevens, an old time circus performer, died Saturday morning, May 30, at her home on Howard Avenue, Bridgeport, Conn., aged eighty-four years. She was the widow of H. P. Stevens, an old time showman and performer, who had appeared before audiences all over the globe. Mrs. Stevens was also a circus performer of note. Her son, William O'Dale Stevens, is a circus performer and the husband of the equestrienne, Linda Jeal. Another son, Jas. Stevens, was a rider of importance in Europe. He was killed at a performance in London in 1878. A grandson, Alex Herbert is now on his way to this country, after having completed an engagement in New Zealand, and is one of the Herbert troupe of aerial performers, formely with the Barnum & Bailey Show. Among the women descendants of Mrs. Stevens who have appeard before the public are Julia Stevens, known as La Petite Julia, the Yankee Belle, the mother of Dollie Julian, and the wife of Fred Ledgett, who just completed an engagement at the Hippodrome, New York. The funeral of the aged performer was held May 31, with services at St. Patrick's Church. The burial was in St. Michael's Cemetery, Bridgeport.
New York Clipper, June 20, 1908, pp. 466, 468. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Sun Bros.' Show notes. . . . The new water-proffed tents and other modern equipment used, has also enabled the aggregation to withstand the bad weather. The "kid show" programme is running in fine shape . . . William Emery, the well known animal and elephant trainer, rejoined the show at Falls Church, Va., June _. His elephant act is in better shape than ever . . . Since the opening of the season, the following performers have been added . . . Sam Dock . . . Jules ___ closed his engagement as the "ski sailor," and Harry Liniger, of the Liniger Trio, who is making the jumps each day in a very successful manner. Mr. Liniger is now making a seventy-six foot jump at each performance.
Norris & Rowe Circus notes. John McMasters, a lion tamer with the Greater Norris & Rowe Circus, was frightfully maimed by infuriated lions in the city of Tacoma, Saturday night, June 6. McMasters was giving an exhibition, entitled "The Untamable Lions," when his foot slipped and the infuriated animals pounced upon him. He was terribly maimed about the body, arms and legs. At St. Joseph's Hospital, where he was taken, it was found necessary to amputated his right amr. His recovery is looked for by the attending surgeons. Mr. McMasters has been with the Norris & Rowe for a number of years, training all sorts of animals, and this is the first serious accident he has met with. R. H. Dockrill, equestrian director of the Norris & Rowe Circus, is busily engaged in breaking an act in which forty-seven thoroughbred horses will be used. Since the opening of the season, March 18, Norris & Rowe have has oppositon with another shows that has been fighting for the territory. In every instance they were the first in each town visited, and notwithstanding much rainy weather, business has been better this year than every before. Turnaway business was recorded at ___, Spokane, Tacoma, and on several other occasions. General manager H. S. Rowe, general agent Ed. Warner, and press representative J. Fitzpatrick visited the Sells-Floto Shows at Spokane, June 4. Notwithstanding that these two shows have fought bitterly all the season, the visiting showmen were treated to every consideration. Manager Frank Tammen did all in his power to make the visitors at home . . . Frank Miller, one of the principal bareback riders of the Norris & Rowe Circus, has been on the sick list for the past two weeks. His place on the programme was filled satisfactorily by Dave Castello.
The Frank A. Robbins Circus, which opened the season at Greenville, N.J., presenting a circus performance up to the standard, was highly commended by press and public, and has continued to win favor. Especially notable was the quickness and snap of the opening performance, guided by the masterly hand of Harry Koster, equestrian director. The menagerie has been enlarged and the entire show has been newly equipped. . . .
Leon Washburn's Circus items. . . . The street display made by manager Washburn more than astounded the natives . . . Eighteen mounted men and women, an eight horse band chariot, twenty or more cages, vans . . . sixty Shetland ponies, donkeys, four elephants and three camels, as well as other animals comprise a parade which press and public proclaim the largest and best ever put out in New England by a twenty-five cent circus. . . .
H. H. Tammen, general manager of the Sells-Floto Circus, announces that the organization may be sent to Europe after the close of the season.
Notes from Thardo's United Shows. We are right on deck again this season, playing to record breaking business on our old stamping grounds in Southern and Western Pennsylvania. We have had exceptionally good weather, and everything in connection with the show is running with a snap and vim, and the ghost walks regularly every week. The programme runs as follows. Fred Martin opens with his Jap juggling act, followed by Ed. Thardo, who is making a big hit in his new sensational contortion and barrel acts. Paul Thardo, the boy singer, is getting a good hand when he sings his new parodies. J. P. Mack, character comedian, and buck and wing dancer, and A. F. Tuttle, with his banjo, each have clever songs. The feature act is Helen Thardo's performing dogs. Hugo Trimbley, on the high wire and rings, is followed by the Wilkinson Bros., in grotesque acrobatic stunts. Harry V. Gordon and A. F. Tuttle get the glad hand in their musical comedy act. The orchestra is composed of the following well known people: Earl Sullivan, first violin, C. W. Covell, clarinet, Frank Evans, cornet, and Harry V. Gordon, piano. Clarence Auskings is doing the advance work.
New York Clipper, June 27, 1908, p. 496. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Al. F. Wheeler Show notes. Towns along the Buffalo, Rochester and Pittsburg Road visited by the Wheeler Shows, all turned out good the past week, and if business continues to increase as it has since the weather cleared up, it will be necessary to add another middlepiece. Arcade gave the show two immense crowds, and the performance gave perfect satisfaction. A serious accident occurred recently, during the night, the property wagon overturning and burying underneath several workingmen. One had three ribs broken and several were bruised and cut. A doctor was at once procured, and the men are doing well. We played Springville, N.Y. Friday, following the Cole Bros.' Show, to two packed tents, and gave great satisfaction. George Irwin, of the Irwin Bros., was a visitor, and was surprised at the size and completeness of the outfit.
Zech and Zech are breaking in a new three act, introducing Baley Ethel, that is going big. Miss Zech was taken ill Saturday, and Reynard too her place, surprising all by his work. The concert this season is giving great satisfaction, and the music by a seven piece orchestra is a leading feature. The "New Model" this season is playing towns visited by the big railroad shows, and from the reception accorded it, it is evident that the days of the old fashioned one ring wagon show is running with clocklike precision and giving the best of satisfaction. Charles E. Griffin is getting his share of patronage on the side show, and Fletcher Smith is finding no trouble in landing the local banner advertising.
Leon Washburn's Circus notes. Warm days and delightfully cool evenings make life worth living with these shows. In none of the New England cities visited has full recovery been made form the effects of the panic. Shops and factories are operated only three and four days a week, and "hard times" are cired. Notwithstanding, manager Washburn's business has been excellent at nearly every stand, and his is both satisfied and pleased with his cash takings. If this is an "off" year, L. W. will be quite contented to have all future seasons just like the present one. Diovolo, whose ride and leap awheel over a herd of elephants is being featured for the outside attraction, was prevented from working the last week owing to injuries received in New Britain, Conn., June 16. To lighten the loads for each of his teams, Mr. Washburn bought fourteen heavy draught horses since leaving home, and he is in the market for twelve more. Superintendent of canvas Roman secured a double set of extra wide oak toe pins and several hundred new stakes at Middletown. Mlle. Blitz joined at Meridan, and is now one of the many attractions in the side show. Charles Cameron was an all day visitor at New Britain, his home town.
The Buffalo Bill Show was in a terrific storm at Pittsburg, about 7:30 o'clock on the evening of June 19, just as an immense audience was assembling to witness the performance. The wind caught the canvas wall, and a section of it was blown down. One man in the audience was badly hurt. People made a rush for the exits. Col. Cody appeared in the arena mounted on a horse, circled around the ring, assuring the people that there was no danger, and begged them to remain in their seats. Little damage was done, and after the storm subsided the performance was given.
The Aerial Rivards write that they have joined the James Adams R. R. Shows to do their double trapeze and revolving ladder act.
The Three Corellis write that they still continue an undisputed hit with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus, this being their fourth season with this show, and, including the past two seasons with the Forepaugh-Sells Shows, make six consecutive seasons of undisputed success.
All the Goods Not in the Window. By Wilton Lackaye.
"I have never seen a circus better than the Sells-Floto. In this show all the goods are not in the window. After the parade and the menagerie is over with there's a show. There are two rings, two stages, hippodrome track, midair arena and Wild West realm. Standing in one end of the circus tent you cannot distinguish a person in the other. It will take care of ten thousand people, I am told. Everything is clean and new. Sawdust, plenty of it, everywhere, and the ground moistened by a system of sprinkling carts. A concert band of thirty pieces furnishes the music.
"The Yankee Doodle Dandy" tournament, a beautiful, patriotic creation, presenting the entire array of performers, horses, elephants, camels, clowns and chariots, and a ballet of picked beauties, is the opening number. Following this is "The Gathering of the Garlands," dancing cotillions, horseback, with a wealth of roses, a favorite pastime of the Boers in South Africa. The double herd of elephants stand on their hind legs and on their heads, play musical istruments, teeter, march, waltz, manoeuver, and one undresses like a person and goes to bed. Chad Wertz turns a double somersault over the double herd of elephants, camels and horses, and a pyramid of persons. Fifty males take part in the leaps. While the women bareback riders, Mrs. Corriea and Mrs. Nellie Lowande are displaying their grace and skill, Spader Johnson, assisted by twenty-nine clown, is busy with his automobile brainstorm stunt. It is a scream. The auto used is mechanically correct for the work it does, and whn it explodes, spectators are holding their sides. The Ty-Bell Sisters do a high air iron jaw act. They have a trained dog that does what they do, and concludes its burlesque by making a slide for life the length of the tent, hanging by its teeth. The "Black Hussars," coal black stallions, appear in one ring doing a liberty and trick act, while the Ben-Hur herd of Arabian stallions are in the other, and the Savoys, with the only troupe of trained bulldogs, occupy the centre stage.
"I think the greates feature I ever saw and the greatest today under a circus tent is the Goldin Troupe of Russian singers and dancers. Their singing is on the grand opera order and is high class, and their dancing is marvelous. There are the Aherns, equilibrists; Coma and Madsa, Japanese acrobats; Wolly and Piers, Roman rings; Ejiska and Tota, Royal Circus of Tokio, and the Great Fowlers, gymnastic marvels. The wire walking act of La Nole, Melnotte and La Nole is phenomenally great. The Seigrist Family, aerialists, do stunts in midair that make you want to turn your head for fear they will fall to instant death. The Passing Satanos do chase the blood in thrilling fashion when they go down an incline on roller skates so rapidly that it is said they are in a vacuum, without life-giving oxygen, passing in space, turning somersaults and diving into tanks of burning gasoline. And when Nadgie, that beautiful creature, the girl who left high society for the circus, dives from a pedestal ninety feet up on a bicycle on to a polished, curved incline, and rides out into space across a sixty foot gap, turning a somersault as she does, and lands in a net, your hair simply stands on end. Children find joy in the trained ponies, geese birds, Billy Boyle and his trained mule, January; Sassaria and his educated roosters. These are a few of the many acts that interest."
New York Clipper, July 4, 1908, p. 520. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
John Robinson Ill. A dispatch from Columbus, Ind., dated June 26, stated that John Robinson, the veteran circus man, is seriously ill with heart trouble. He is confined to his private car and physicians have been attending to him.
Circus Train in Wreck. Twenty-eight employees of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus were injured at St. Paul, Minn., June 25, when a freight train ran into one of the circus trains. The most seriously hurt were Earl William. R. S. Sutton, C. F. Layfield, Thomas Dunn, Charles Young and George Davis. Among the cars demolished was one in which nearly one hundred men were sleeping.
Miller Bros.' 101 Ranch Wild West Show did big business at St. Paul, Minn., June 16 and 17, at the grounds corner of University and Victoria Streets. A most distressing accident occurred 16, while the Cossacks were in the ring, when the horse which was carrying Sergi Djurhandze stumbled and fell on it rider, breaking his leg and that of the horse as well. The horse had to be shot, both the the bones of its leg having been broken. Pearl Benson, a cowgirl, also had her right arm fractured, her pinto becoming unmanageable as she was dismounting, owing to a loose saddle, and throwing her heavily to the ground, 17. She pluckily went through the rest of her act.
Washburn news. Success perches on the banner of Leon Washburn's Circus, Menagerie, Museum and Carnival Alliance. The recent changes made in one or two departments have worked wonders, and everything is now moving with the smoothness and regularity of a well oiled high-priced clock. Stock superintendnet Ulrich has already demonstrated that the right man is in the right place, while Charles Reed and his chief assistant, Frank Wallace, certainly make things move around the menagerie and big top. Hugh Donahue joined Monday in Danielson to strengthen the concert. There were no turnaways last week, but New London, Norwich, Jewett City and Moosup turned out better than good. Diovolo, who was injured when leaping-the-gap two weeks ago, writes that he will be able to return to work by July 4. Sunday was paint-up day, and stakes, centre poles, side poles and stages are bright and fresh in their dresses of red and blue. Mr. Washburn expects his new thirty-eight whistle calliope next week.
Notes from Gollmar Bros.' Shows. While we were making the run from Jamestown, N.D., to Bismarck, our train ran into an empty engine at a small place called Medina. Both engines were totally wrecked and six stock cars of our tain were smashed to pieces. The engineers and firemen on both trains jumped and saved their lives. The ten stock cars next to the engine were telescoped and eighteen horses were instantly killed. In the other cars six more were hurt and injured so that they had to be shot. Our elephant car, containing eight elephants, was partly smashed, but none of them were injured. Four people were injured, and were sent to the hospital at Bismarck. The loss to our show is estimated at $50,000. One twelve-horse team was killed, one of the most valuable with the show. Several other horses from our six and eight-horse teams were killed. No ring stock was injured, and consequently our performance was not interfered with. No animals, except the horses, were injured. Everyone was badly shaken up, but not seriously injured. The train reached Bismarck Sunday evening, and a regular performance was given Monday.
Al. F. Wheeler's Tent Show notes. We entered, on June 27, our ninth week, and have just finished a week of pressure and profit. The big business being done by the "New Model" in all new territory speaks volumes for the thoroughness of the work accomplished by the advance, under the skillful guidance of general agent F. J. Frink, as much paper has been put up as is usually displayed by the big ones, but the returns warranted the outlay. Since the "New Model" opened there has been but one losing stand. It would have opened the eyes of some of the big show managers to see the mob of people that flocked to the show grounds at Gowanda. The Indians from the reservation, a little from town, were all on hand, the squaws gaily decked out in ribbons and gaudy calicos, and the big top was a mass of people to the ring bank. The weather is all that can be desired, and the roads in this section of Western New York State are in perfect condition. Wm. H. Austin, who came over here as boss hostler, from the Barnum & Bailey Show, closed 26, to go back to his first love.
We had a terrific thunder and lightning storm at Saugerties, but no damage was done to the show, and the crowds escaped with only a severe wetting. Albert Gaston and Al. F. Wheeler Jr. are proving two merry jesters, and the opening number, the old fashioned clown song, is going big. Chef Berry is providing plenty of good things to eat and stands in pretty well with the bunch. The concert this season is going big and every act is a hit. It includes: the Wheeler children, Al. F. and Leland, singers and dancers; Bell and Smith, laughable Dutch comedians with a new budget of fun; the Hamiltons, musican team; Flo Perry, vocalist, and Captain Snider's comedy bears. The latter act is a decided novelty and never fails to make the most pronounced hit. Adam Gillispie and his band, and John Spaulding, with his orchestra, are playing all the late music, and pleasing the crowds daily. The roster of the big band: Adam Gillispei, Ira ___, cornets; George Taylor, C. H. Hamilton, trombones; John Spaulding, Fletcher Smith, altos . . . The band at night is augmented by the addition of Al. F. Wheeler and Al. F. Wheeler Jr., cornets; Mrs. Hamilton, trombone; Wm. Trout and Albert Gaston, making fifteen pieces in the nightly concerts. The concert has a strong feature, the triple tongue cornet solos by Al F. Wheeler Jr. For two more weeks we will be in New York State, and then commence the Southern trip, to last until December.
New York Clipper, July 11, 1908, p. 541. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Gollmar Bros.' news. Our season opened May 2, in Baraboo, Wis., and since then rain, mud, blow-downs and wrecks have been rather prevalent. Our last, and almost fatal wreck, occurred at Medina, N.D., on a Sunday run, at 3:30 a.m., owning to a head-on collision, which killed, outright, twenty-one head of baggage stock, and maimed nine others so badly, that, being useless, they were left behind. Since then we have been gradually replacing our stock. Strange to say, that in this fearful wreck, no human lives were lost, and only three men slightly injured, which, to us, seems something merely short of miraculous. Suffice it to say that while grieving over the loss of so many poor dumb brutes' lives, a very thankful body of human beings started the ordinary routine of work on Monday moring. Since then the sun has been shining, and everything bids fair to be a most profitable season.
And now as to the side show. Never since circus days were instituted has there ever been such a high class vaudeville side show as Gollmar Bros.' annex to their greatest of American shows. Lew Aronson, side show manager, with three assistant ticket sellers, namely: Dave Pollock, Fred Seymour and "Doc" Chapman; Albert Gollmar, superintendent of side show, with Jack Gee and Shorty "Dutch" as assistants. We have a 60ft. round top, with two 30ft. middle pieces. The roster of this meritorious side show is as follows: an up-to-date band, composed of nine pieces, under the direction of Bennett M. Gaskell, and the following musicians: Robert Aschenbach, solo cornet; John Ousky, baritone; Albert Heitman, slide trombone; Edgar Hull, E flat clarinet; Joe Weber, B flat clarinet; Harry Kennicutt, alto; Donald Fraser, bass, and Will Hughes, trap drummer. Inside program director, James Morris; inside lecturers, Harry Moulton and J. C. Polo. Every individual act stands on its own merit, and they are as follows: Henry Maxey, needle king; Harry Moulton, ventriloquist, with many voices, and his wooden headed family; Master Andrew Sturertz, the youngest tattooed person in the world, being tattooed from head to foot in beautifully colored designs; Jamese Morris, elastic skin man; Mlle. Clifford, sword swallower, in gorgeous costume; J. Polo, magician, mystifies and pleases both young and old; Rowenda La Mee, dainty singing soubrette, in popular songs; Mlle. Maratona, snake enchantress, and, lastly, the inevitable Punch and Judy.
Campbell Bros.' Shows are on their first tour through Canada, and are more than making good. The weather has been quite severe at times, and very disagreeable to show in. But only one day has been lost since our opening, and business has been good, despite prevailing conditions. The first stand was made in Regina, Sask., Can., with excellent business. Then the next towns of special account were Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Edmonton and Calgary, and more good towns are yet to come. The large towns are giving the show excellent patronage, and as the show is the largest ever seen up here, it is but natural that they like it. Just a little sickenss has been endured around the show, but the weather is enough to have the strongest people almost break down and out by this time. The programme is the biggest and best the show has ever offered. The heads of the several departments have proved themselves competent, and are there "with the goods." After a short stay up here, the show goes back for a tour of the Central States and the South.
Al. F. Wheeler Shows notes. For another week we have had perfect weather and record-breaking business. Fourth of July found us at Sherman, N.Y. The weather was ideal for a day of pleasure, and the farmers took advantage of it by giving up a day of work to enjoy a real, old-fashioned circus. The mob on the lot at the opening of the side show made Charlie Griffin imagine he was back with the Buffalo Bill Show, and facing one of the record-breaking Parisian crowds. Three performances were given to packed tents, and an extra performance at night. The big show played to the two largest audiences of the season, and so large was the crowd at night, that it was impossible to give the opening spectacle, "The Queen of Nations." Fredonia and Mayville were both good. At Fredonia, Walter L. Main spent the day as Mr. Wheeler's guest, and the business and performance made him sit up and take notice. At Westfield, the Casenoras were guests of the show. It was the first time that they had met Mr. Wheeler or C. E. Griffin since they were together with the Hunting Show, and stories of old days were plenty. Fishing is the order of the day just at present, and Albert Gaston and Curvin Zech are daily landing big catches. Adam Gillispie and his band are making hits with their nightly concerts, and bring the crowds to the lot in droves. We enter next week on a tour of Pennsylvania. So far this season we have experienced no opposition, and have played a section of New York State that was certainly "right" for a wagon show. The Clipper Club is increasing weekly, and our agent J. H. Gute, reports twenty-five members so far. The show will make an extended Southern tour in the Fall, to last until the first of December. Since our opening only one change has been made in the company, and everybody is enjoying a season of solid enjoyment and profit.
Geo. B. Kemp has sold the Kemp Sisters' Wild West and Indian Congress to W. E. Coe & Co. Mr. Kemp will remain as manager of the show for the rest of the season.
Chas. Hilderra, contortionist, is this season with Cole Bros.' Circus.
New York Clipper, July 18, 1908, pp. 562, 568, 572. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Ringling Brothers' news. Blue skies and sunshine have greeted Ringling Brothers' World's Greatest Shows in the Northwest. Minneapolis wears the only black mark to the contrary, but the flood tide of business in that city made one forget the sorrows of bad weather. Early in the morning a hurricane of wind caught up the big top before the side wall were stretched, and dropped it on the cook and dining tents. Steward Webb is what might be called a good housekeeper, and to have his spick and proud department torn and bespattered by a low browed wind and an unstable ring, nearly broke his heart. Webb, however, has a sort of genius for emergency, and lucheon and dinner were served as usual. He temporarily impressed into service an extra horse tent. None of the local newspapers noticed the mishap. It cleared up for the parade, but rained furiously all afternoon and evening. We never say a stronger proff of the hold Ringling Brothers have upon the general public. Both the performances were turnaways. Tom North, of the Gentry Shows, was a visitor in Minneapolis, so was Tarkington, general agent of the same show. The editor of one of the big local newspapers came over a hundred miles to visit North socially, the day before our date, when it was "killing" hot. They took possession of a restaurant stall, and chatted like schoolboys for hours, while the mercury was gurgling to crack the bulb at the head of its workshop. Lac Stafford, of the Metropolitan Theatere, got up in time to see the afternoon show, and never made a kick.
The weather at St. Paul was good enough for a wedding, and the business was immense. Governor Johnson, "Boss" Dick O'Connor, and all the political big wigs took a day off for the show, and thereby tacked on another ten years of life. Chas. C. Wilson of Chicago, and Charles Mott of Milwaukee, were visitors at St. Paul. Mr. Mott is a home building of the Northern Pacific Railroad. He knew the Ringling boys when they wore jumpers, and their own flesh and blood could not be happier in their success. Eau Claire was another commercial hummer. Joe Brooks, assistant treasurer, comes from this picturesque town. His father is a leading merchant, and Joe was a smiling feature in the First National Bank there until his yearnings for a missionary life became too strong. All the boys and girls of the town seemed to hang around the ticket wagon that day for a chance to say something to "Our Joe." Superior was a late arrival town, but the splendid Ringling organization put things through on time without much delay. Jimmie Whalen, the boss canvasman, feeds on difficult work the same as a fire does on fuel. His example infects all the workmen, so that nothing seems impossible to them. The fellow who gave Superior its name will have a lot to answer for.
Duluth was like a home-coming day. If anybody missed the show there he must have been an invalid. Colonel Henry whooped her up on the Herald, and made Frank Miller's heart glad. Wadena and Crookston were one show stands, and swept up the country like a prairie fire. Winnipeg was a two day booking, and Guy Steely went there to tell the good people what the World's Greatest really meant. If there ever was a show agent who could make people throw their ears forward and listen, it is this same Steely. The tents were too small for the crowds, and the newspapers "just got out in the open and shouted," as our literary club would say.
Grand Forks and Fargo did little else but think and talk about the show for days before it came. In Dakota the name Ringling spells all that is best in circus amuseument. Show day and the Fourth came together at Fargo. All the surrounding towns gave up their usual plans for celebrating the nation's birthday for the purpose of going to the circus at Fargo. The crowds were enormous and the spirit of good nature was wonderful. Not an accident of any kind was reported. The excellent of the World's Greatest Show was again most forcibly illustrated here. Steward A. L. Webb always spreads himself for the Fourth of July dinner, and at Fargo the result gave everyone present something to talk about for some time to come. More than eleven hundred sat down to the inviting table. "Mickey" Webb's right bower, had decorated the tables and tents with a lavish display of flowers, ferns, bunting and flags, and all of his forty-five waiter boys were dressed in natty cadet suits of white. Henry Ringling presided at the managers' table. Cigars were passed at the close of the dinner, and then stories and cheers until the band played "Auld Lang Syne."
Al. F. Wheeler Show notes. Ideal circus weather has prevailed throughout the past week, and the weather man has cordially been good to the "New Model." Last Sunday was spent at Finley Lake, N.Y., a pleasant summer resort on the shores of a beautiful sheet of water three miles long. It is the home of the Western New York Chautauqua Association, and is also noted as the birthplace and home of the popular repertory manager, J. C. Rockwell. Everybody, from the youngest "flunky" to the highest salaried performer, spent the day either boating, bathing or fishing. In the early evening, in invitation of Mr. Wheeler, some twenty-five performers and musicians enjoyed a ride around the lake in a specially chartered launch. Fish stories were plentiful, and some record breaking catches were reported.
Business was to capacity Monday, and the show made a decidedly favorable impression. Tuesday was spent at Watsburg, and it was also the first town in Pennsylvania to be visited this season. Although new to the people, the parade set them talking, and it was the same old story of a good matinee and a packed tent at night. Union City was the midweek stand, and was the first large town in Pennsylvania to be played by the "New Model." A long drive and bad roads caused a late arrival, but the crowd was waiting for us, and when the parade came down the main street, the sidewalks were jammed with people. Most of them came up to the lot,and there was a big side show opening. Both afternoon and evening houses were big, the night house being almost a turnaway. Waterford, Thursday, was fair, but perfect hay weather kept the farmers away at the matinee. Everybody was looking forward to Cambridge Springs, and extra preparations were made to accommodate the crowds. We found the noted resort full of people of the kind of tourists who were out for a good time and who were bound to have it. It was a great day for Charlie Griffin and Fletcher Smith. The side show gave two additional performances, and Fletcher Smith talked for ten minutes about the local merchants. It was the biggest day of the season, a slight increase over the Fourth of July receipts. A valuable horse was kicked by his team mate at Waterford, and it was necessary to shoot him. It was one of a pair purchased this Spring at Marion, and was valued at $250. A new team was purchased the following day at Cambridge.
Saturday found us at Edinboro, a suburb of Erie. Business was a surprise to everybody at both shows. Sunday we are trying to keep comfortable on a lot devoid of shade and the thermomete at 102 in the shade. No lake, no parks, no place to go - only plenty of sun, heat and dust. This week we swing into Ohio for a short trip, making our first stand at Andover. If Ohio turns out anywhere near as good as did Pennsylvania, the "New Model" will this season establish a new record for big business. The little Wheeler children, Capt. Linder's bears, Bell and Smith, and the Hamiltons are getting plenty of laughs and applause in the concert, and every act in the big show is a headliner. It seems as if nothing could keep this show from getting the money. Late arrivals or bad weather have no effect on the business, for when the band plays for the opening spectacle it is the same old story, every seat filled and a call for more. Mr. Wheeler is wearing a smile that won't come off, and everybody is flashing a roll.
The foreign contingent with the Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth had its first introduction to American's natal day at Akron, O., where two bumper houses applauded the efforts of the show people. The business at Buffalo, one month after the visit of the Ringling Show, stamps Buffalo as a circus stand of the first water. Patronage at Meadville, Canton, Youngstown and Jamestown was good, and, in fact, all along the line the show has garnered the sheckles in good measure. On July 5 many of the members of the John Robinson performers and business staff paid a visit to their friends of the "Greatest." The Robinson Show were oly a matter of fifty miles away, and took advantage of the chance to pay a fraternal visit. They brought along their ball team, but our boys are keeping pretty quiet when the game is mentioned. Five innings had been played when the sheriff took a hand, and everything was off. The score was 8 to 2 at that time, in the other fellows favor, and they were traveling at a clip that foreboded further disaster to the sturdy Barnum athletes. The game, while it lasted, was of surpassing interest, viewed both as a ball game and vaudeville performance. The Robinson nine put up a good all 'round game. Spot Gerome took a fly in left field on the dead run that would have been creditable in Hans Wagner, while Orrin Davenport "did things" in the short field that made the natives sit up and take notice. Egner, behind the plate, caught a good game, but the Robinson pitcher had them all faded trying to his his serpentine curves. The ladies of the respective shows were out in force and "rooted" as if to the manner born. After the game the show people fraternized until time for the visitors to depart.
In three weeks' time the aggregation will be in Denver, and then the journey further Westward will be taken up. Everything is moving smoothly and harmoniously, and the various departments are being handled by loyal and efficient aids. "Happy" Jack Snelling, in charge of the canvas, is "putting it up and down" in fine fashion, and John McLachlan, trainmaster, has done some heroic "stunts" in the matter of entraining and detraining, when time has meant so much to the outfit. Tom Lynch has the stock in fine fettle, despite the daily parade, and hasn't a charge that isn't as round and fat as a lump of butter. Charles Hutchinson and Fred De Wolfe are in the red wagon, while Con Foster holds forth in the white ticket wagon. Fred Jewell directs the band that pleases him, and when that is said, one means that it is high class. The preliminary concerts are the real thing, musically, and the organization never fails to win the inteligent, musically inclined. The entire circus is on a splended working basis, and has resolved itself into a finely balanced machine. The health of the organization is of the best, and when there's a slip-up, Dr. Grabel is on hand with the ability and intelligence to combat it. Alf. T. Ringling, wife and son, are upon the contingent for the summer. John Ringling and Doc. Freeman "dropped in" at Buffalo. George Dleistein quaffed at the fount of circus joy while the show was at Buffalo, as did Ed. Ernst, one time of the Forepaugh Show. Arthur Brisbane has an interesting article in the August number of the Cosmopolitan, on Weenie Wee, the remarkable midget, over whom Col. Hugh Harrison, of the annex, daily rhapsodizes. The pictures illustrating the article are exceptionally fine, and were taken this Spring at the Madison Square Garden, by an Evening Journal photographer. Charlie Henry did himself proud with the culinary lay-out for the Fourth of July dinner. Splendidly cooked, variety and nicely served they all say. Henry says they all came back with the second order and then some more. Westward, Ho!
William W. Horn, "Bud," the "callipoe king," died suddenly July 8, at Nashville, Tenn., aged fifty-six years. For twenty years he worked with W. A. Sheetz, of the Vendome Theatre, Nashville, as advertising man, and during the summer season, year after year, he traveled with circuses, always playing the calliope. "Bud" Horn toured the country with Barnum & Bailey, Ringling Bros., Forepaugh, Sells Bros., Pawnee Bill and other noted aggregations. He was conceded to be the best calliope player in the country. At the time he was stricken with the sudden illness which carried him away, "Bud" was with the Grand, Nashville, and had been in the ticket office. He is survived by this wife and two sons, Claud and Stanley. The interment took place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Nashville.
New York Clipper, July 25, 1908, p. 592. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Ringling Show happenings. Five days in South Dakota, beginning July 6, marked a perfect period of weather and business for the World's Greatest Shows. The people of this rich farming country are almost fanatics in their loyalty to Ringling Brothers. Weather broken and stained patches of paper, some several years old, are pointed to with pride by the owners of barns and other outbuildings, who will not permit any other show to use the space. They talk and act as if Ringling Brothers were of their clan, and is was a duty to turn out in honor of their visit. Guy Steeley has stopped smoking cigarettes. The fight has been on for three weeks, and the genial Guy wears a smile of victory. He has gained ten pounds, toss. The best he could do before was to pick up fourteen ounces in two years. There is a club contagion raging in the camp. What with a Woman's Club, Clowns Club, Cosmopolitan Club, Literary, Debating, Bowling, Tennis, Baseball and Whist Clubs, one would think there was enough digression; but the younger element last week started a dancing club. There are a lot of young people with the show, and this social function will appeal to them.
Bud Gorman, an able equestrian director, is still having birthdays. He had one the other day which keeps him in the hurdling class. "Bud" is the Beau Brummel of the show. His clothes are always fresh and fashionable, and he steps with the elastic grace of a "two year old." Bud was a rider in his younger days, and a good one, and knows the circus equation like a degree doctor with many titles. Pretty Nellie Jordan is embarassed by attentions everywhere. She has just turned twenty, and says she will not get married until she is twenty-three, and then -. The baseball club is all puffed up with the pride of success. It has found college teams and semi-professional teams easy picking, and hungers for some major league scalps. George Hartzell is the manager, and if there is a live wire around the show, you will find George at the head of the circuit. Cornella and McNally, and Richards and Wagner are the star batteries. The team is ready to play any club in the business for a championship trophy.
A pair of chimpanzees arrived at Lincoln. They are the pets of the menagerie. Conrad, their caretaker, has taught them many amusing tricks, and he goes so far as to predict that within a fortnight they will be dressing and dining like humans. They certainly are a strange freak of nature, and apt to take some of the conceit out of mortal vanity. Charlie Smith, the menagerie "boss," is as proud of the newcomers as though they were twins of his own flesh. Major Dickinson, of the New York Herald, "chaperoned" a party of New York, Washington and Chicago correspondents to the circus at Lincoln - most of them old friends of the writer, camped in Bryan's town for the summer. It was a jolly party, and the World's Greatest was unanimously voted properly named. Lincoln was a Monday town, and Sunday it rained like "a house afire." The lowlands around the town were mostly under water, and trains moving uncertainly and in roundabout ways. Bob Taylor, our transportation king, got the trains through somehow, as he always does, and "Old Del" and Jimmy Whalen did the rest. The business was splendid.
Omaha, July 14, was a late arrival city. The Northwestern was in bad shape from the floods, and two flat cars swamped. The parade did not get down town until two o'clock, and the afternoon performance began at four o'clock. The extras were put in, and at night the biggest turn away of the season occurred. The Hagenbeck and Floto Shows were ahead of us, the latter only the day before, but the Ringling Brothers never did so large a business in Omaha before. The opposition, so called, was not very amiable, and their stars had it fixed for us to fare badly. The result must have been a bitter dose to the mountain seers. Harry Bonfils, part owner of the Floto Shows and Denver Post; Frank Tammen, manager; Rhoda Royal and "Shanty" Coleman, of the same show, were witnesses of the Omaha ovation to Ringling Brothers. "Doc" Waddell did good work in Omaha. The newspaper men liked him, and made a record for his show it never had before. Your correspondent was the guest of the Ak Sar-Ben Society, the Ad. Men's Club, Royal Arennum and Commercial Club, while in Omaha. He was made an honorary member of the Ad. Men's club. They all seemed to like the circus man's talk.
Al. F. Wheeler's Show notes. We entered last Thursay on our first tour of Ohio, and, like Pennsylvania, it has so far turned out good. Although in the centre of a farming district, and just at a time when everybody is busy haying, the afternoon audiences have been good, and the night crowds large enough to fill the tent. The two last towns in Pennsylvania gave us two capacity houses. The Ohio tour will be a short one, the show returning to Pennsylvania in ten days. The big show is pleasing the people, and the remarkable act of Capt. Snider's trained bears is a magnet that draws big crowds for the concert. Zech and Zech, the Great Reynard, and the dancing and cakewalking horse, are prominent big show features. The big show band has been augmented by the addition of two cornets, making sixteen mouthpieces. Adam Gillespie has arranged a new programme of nearly all popular selections, and the music, both before and during the performances, adds much to the enjoyment of the "New Model" patrons. Captain Snider's hypnotic lion act, Milile Cleo, with her serpents . . . The usual summer touching up has just being completed and the two band wagons and all the cages are resplendent in new coats of varnish.
Severe wind was encountered at Kinsman, O., Friday, but superintendent of canvas George Wood and his assistants kept the tops up in the air and no performances were missed. The stock is now in the pink of condition, thanks to the good roads, short drives of the past two weeks, and the work of boss hostler Tom Sterling. Albert Gaston and Curvin Zech are still daily landing fine strings of bass, and it is a hard matter to find these two persistent anglers between shows if there is a stream in the neighborhood. No accidents have occurred of late, and the show has been getting in on time. Chef Berry has been doing himself proud. Everybody is happy and looking forward to a long and prosperous season South. Mr. Wheeler is busy booking his big vaudeville act, Belmont's comedy bears, and general agent Frink is putting his spare time securing time for a big scenic production of a popular rural comedy drama, to be put on the road at the conclusion of the present tour. Charlie Griffin is writing the final chapters of his book, and expects to have his last copy in the hands of the printers in a few days. He reports a big subscription list. Now that the Fourth has come and gone, everybody is looking after their bank rolls, and the post offices do a big business every Monday morning.
Trainer Alfred Clarke, with Ferari's Wild Animal Show, while exhibiting at Outing Park, Springfield, Mass., had an exciting time with one of the lions, "Sultan," after the close of the show Saturday, July 11. Mr. Clarke returned to the cage for his pocketbook, which had slipped from his pocket during the performance. The lion was lying down peacefully when he entered, and Mr. Clarke regained possession of his property and was about to leave, when "Sultan" sprang to the door, cutting off the trainer's escape. The usual means of subduing the beast were resorted to, which only infuriated him the more. Finally he fastened his teeth into Mr. Clarke's left upper arm and proceeded to shake his victim about. . . . Mr. Clarke's injuries consisted of a badly lacertated arm and wounds on his chest and legs, resulting from the animal's claws. This is the third attack which "Sultan" has made upon Mr. Clarke. Three former trainers have met their death from this lion. . . .
Howard Damon is about to embark in the circus business for himself. He has recently acquired an elegant lot of circus property, and will embark in the show business for himself, opening at Geneva, O., Aug. 15 next. The cars, wagons, tents, harness, etc., are all nearly new, and the young showman will give a straight one ring circus, exhibiting from two to four days each week at the fairs, and making one day stands in the intervening time. This new show will go South and endeavor to make an extensive season.
George Cady, Bert Wells and James Watson, musicians, have closed with the Cummings Wild West at New Brighton, England, and sailed for American, July 14.
William Siegrist, of the original Siegrist Brothers, died at his home at 140 East Ninety-seventh Street, New York City, June 23, from a complication of diseases, aged forty years. Mr. Siegrist was a noted acrobat and clown, having traveled with all the leading circuses. He was connected for years with the Barnum & Bailey, Ringling Bros. and Forepaugh & Sells Bros. circuses. He had been in poor health for some time past, and at the opening of the present season was unable to take to the road. On June 19 he visited his brother, Toto Siegrist, and friends with the Barnum & Bailey Show, at Bridgeport, Conn., and the following Tuesday died. His sudden death was a great shock to his brother and all of his friends connected with the show. He is survived by his wife, a son, a daughter, and one brother, Toto.
Louis Siegrist, an acrobat, and one of the original Siegrist Brothers, died in Troyes, France, last April, and word of his death has just reached this country. Mr. Siegrist was an old time performer, and traveld all over the world with leading shows. He was connected with the Eddy Family for a number of years. He is survived by four children, all of whom are in Europe.
New York Clipper, August 1, 1908, p. 616. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Thardo's United Shows. We have just finished our engagements in Green and Washington Counties, Pa., where we did the largest business we ever did in that section, and not having a losing stand in six weeks. The roster of the show remains the same as on opening day, with the exception of John Mack, whose place has been filled by Sam Cole, the old minstrel man. Our concert is stronger than ever, and well patronized, as we give the best of satisfaction and a big show. Up to the present time we have had no opposition, and never hear the words "hard times." We are working Northward, and will close about Oct. 1.
Al. F. Wheeler's Show notes. Last Sunday found us in Hubbard, O., a suburb of Youngstown, and there was a general exodus to the city and the parks. A majority of the boys spent a pleasant day at Idora Park, and took in everything from the circle swing to the splendid vaudeville show provided in the open air theatre. Our old friend, Tom Mack, and the Military Maids were the hit of the bill, and met many friends after the afternoon performance. In the evening the picture houses gathered in many stray tickets. Hubbard was a turnaway at night, and good in the afternoon. James Hammon, a brother-in-law of Sig. Sautelle, and an old showman, now engaged in the cigar manufacturing business, with his jolly wife and son, were guests of the show, and after the night performance entertained a party of friends at his beautiful residence. Hubbard was one of the pleasant spots of the season and the "New Model" certainly established a lasting reputation. Girard, only five miles from Youngstown, and on a direct trolly line, was a surprise. The afternoon house was almost to capacity, and at night the seating capacity was taxed. It was evident the the people appreciated a good, old fashioned one ring show from the two bumper houses they gave us.
Canfield, a small farming town, was good, better than expected. At night the farmers turned out in sufficient numbers to fill the tent. Columbinna was a general surprise. A town that has been dead for years, and one generally shunned by all tent shows, gave us a good matinee and a packed house at night; in fact, it was one of the largest night houses of the season. It was a case of good judgment on the part of general agent Frink, and he certainly ___ the turn. Lisbon was another surprise. We followed directly after the Robinson Carnival Co., playing a week's engagement for the benefit of the Eagles, and it taxed the capacity of the tent to hold the crowds. At night the ring bank was surrounded, and the show gave the best of satisfaction. Capt. Snider and his hypnotic lion act was a big feature, and surprised the crowds that flocked to see it. It was all the more wonderful, as a lion act had preeceded him with the carnival company. Ohio has certainly turned out good for the "New Model," but Pennsylvania and the East has attractions for manager Wheeler, and we make a turn in a week and come East, starting on a tour of the South after a short trip in the coal regions. Since we opened our season, but one change has been made in the roster, and everybody is enjoying a prosperous season. . . .
New York Clipper, August 8, 1908, p. 638. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Ringling Show news. Last week was a busy one for the Big Show. Northern Wisconsin was the scene of its travel. Ringling Brothers are native sons, and as the Badger State is strong on family pride, a stirring welcome was met everywhere. La Crosse, Beaver Dam, Green Bay, Oshkosh and Manitowoc were following towns in this demonstration. The World's Greatest Shows are to exhibit under canvas for the first time in Chicago, Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 1, 2. Although Ringling Brothers have for years opened their traveling season at the Coliseum, in Chicago, few people know this is the first time they have ever spread their show tents there. It will be an eye opened to many to see their big tents, which occupy twelve acres of ground, and to observe all the excitements and features incident to this event. To our mind, this outdoor display is the only expression of the circus idea that gets under the skin and makes the world ___. A daylight parade will be given the first day on the North Side, which will also be the first ever given by Ringling Brothers in Chicago.
Al. Miaco, "the oldest clown in the business," likes to talk of the days when he worked in the sawdust ring with Tony Pastor and Dan Rice. In those days a clown could talk; now he must do everything else but that. The old man has kept pace with the times and is responsible for some of the cleverest clown stunts that are before the public. He says he was born in 1845, and to see him sit a spirited horse in parade reminds one of a first class man at a cavalry school. Nellie Jordan bought a saddle horse at Oshkosh, and was so elated over the purchase that she invited a number of her intimate friends to a supper which was announced as a sort of christening function. She named the animal "Teddie Sawyer." Now everybody around the show is anxious to know who Teddy is. The horse is black, and has pedigree written in every line.
"Butch" Parsons has reaped a fortune in Dakota lands. He bought heavily years ago, and now that the country is above par in producing value, his holdings represent a fortune. "Butch" has had the candy privilege with Ringling Brothers since they started. He and his chief aid, his brother Frank, are heartily liked by everybody with the show. The hail from Darlington, Wisconsin, a nesting place for nature's charms. Tom Buckley has reached high C in the debating club. Tom presides over the ticket wagon, and is a constant reader when off duty. History and biography are ___ to him, and when he waxes warm under the spur of debate, he leaves cease to whisper. Al. White, who makes up as a buxom female clown, has had two letters this season from officials of women's clubs, soliciting a talk upon the subject of female clowning. Al. says he would go through with it if it weren't for his disposition to laugh. Fred De Wolf, of the Barnum & Bailey staff, was a visitor at Des Monies. He has lots of friends with the "Real Thing," and they all joined hands to make his stay pleasant.
Bob Stickney is showered with friendly attentions all along the line. It seems, not many moons ago, he was the king of all bareback riders. His wife, Emma Stickney, does a wonderful riding act with the show. Bob could write an interesting book about the circus and its people. Al. Sweet, our excellent band leader, is with the Edison Phonograph Co., in the winter months. The silver strains of his cornet solos are heard around the world by this means. Neither family nor profit can keep him away from the circus as soon as the hills begin to show green. It is wonderful how little talk one hears of hard times in the Northwest - wonderful, because it seemed to be a staple diet East of the Alleghenies. The business here today, Milwaukee, is a Ringling landslide. This is a Ringling territory, stock, barrel and trigger. Word comes that farm hands are to be laid off with pay for the Ringling days in Madison, Janesville, Monroe and the neighboring towns of this week.
"Bill" Howard is as vain as a peacock, and wears a smile that would have made Keeley, the perpetual motion hero, die with a heavenly peace in his soul, had he seen it. He seems to be on particularly good terms with that mysterious angel called the stork, and the other day reported a twelve pound donation from that source. This is a boy, too; so after all, Bill has some license to be "stuck up." Frank Miller, of the press department, leaves on the _th to join the Shubert's. This is Frank's first season with the show, although he is a dyed in-the-wool circus man, and he has adapted himself to the Ringling ways and people so as to become a cherished one of the big family. Everyone, from the highest to the humblest, will be sorry to have him go away from us, and Guy Steeley and myself will have a special reason to regret it. Good luck to you, Frank, and may the winter months bring only the best of fortune and experience.
Notes from the Miller Bros.' 101 Ranch Real Wild West Show. Benton Harbor, Mich., tomorrow (Saturday), Aug. _, will be the ending of our sixteenth week on tour this season. We have just entered Michigan, and will sojourn at many of the fine resorts in the State during the next fifteen days. Last Sunday was spent at Kenosha, but nearly the entire show traveled to Milwaukee to visit the Ringling Bros., and Dickey's Wild West. A good time was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone who participated in the trip, and they speak very highly of the performance given by Dickey. ___ we changed a good many canvas men at Kenosha, those leaving going to the Ringling Show, and their places being taken by the Ringling canvas men joining us. J. C. Miller has returned to the ranch for a few days to supervise the buying of many thousand head of cattle for Fall feeding. Tom Mix, who was formerly the arena director, has charge of the shipping of cattle on the ranch. Mrs. Mix left from Waukegan to join her husband, much to the sorrow of the individual members of the show, with whom she was very popular. Several new cowgirls have been added to our already large string. A car of horses was shipped from Chicago Heights to the Ranch, in charge of Frank ___, and in turn a car of buffalo and ___ was received from the Ranch at the above point. It is very fortunate that we have a large herd of buffalo to draw from in as much as we have lost several this season in __ and handling in the big reproduction of the buffalo chase given . . . W. S. Thompson came back to the show at Kenosha, and spent a very pleasant day. His friends were so numerous with the attention, that about 2 p.m. he began extending the left hand instead of the right; in order that he might reserve what remaining strength he had in his rihgt hand to advise the public of the merits of 101 Ranch.
During the date at Waukegan the show polo team, consisting of Zack T. Miller, Chas. Tiptan, C. C. Lee and Howard Compton, with Dan Dix as relief, played the Forest Park polo team after the afternoon performance. George Arlington and wife were away form the show for a couple of days on a business trip and rejoined at Faribault. Eddie Arlington, Fred Beckman and Joe Rosenthal were all visitors to the show at Aurora. . . . Vester Pegg is again in the saddle, "scratching broncos" as he has never before done. No use talking, when it come to riding a "pitcher" sitting straight in the middle and never pulling leather, Vester is the one original "candy kid." Charles Tipton and George Eliser both left for Chicago Heights for the hospital, expecting to be away from the show about two weeks.
Al. F. Wheeler Show notes. Sunday last (July 26) we spent the day at Salineville, O., a small defunct mining town. The lot was but a step from the main street, but the town was too far away form any nearby city to allow of the weekly excursions. Everybody enjoyed a day of rest. The business Monday was a surprise in one way, but everybody seems to have made up their minds that it makes no difference with the "New Model" what the towns or conditions may be, the crowds come just the same. The afternoon house was good and the night business near capacity. Irondale, O., a pottery town, was reached after a hard drive over mountains. The oldest inhabitant could not remember when a real circus has stopped at the burg, and to celebrate the even the pottery company shut down every department but the ovens. The lot was a mile and a half from town, but it made no difference in the attendance. Another hard pull over the mountain led us to Toront, a booming Ohio River pottery town. It was necessary to omit the parade, and a downtown band concert was substituted. There was a good crowd at the afternoon, and almost a turnaway at night. The side show was packed at every performance, and Charlie Griffin and Fletcher Smith found it necessary to change collars at every show. It was the hottest day of the season, and also one of the best in the way of business.
The move to the next stand across the Ohio River, into Pennsylvania, will long linger in the minds os the bunch. It was a horse killer, but was successfully accomplished, in spit of seemingly unsurmountable obstacles. It was necessary to transport the show across the river upon a small ferry boat, propelled by the current. The first wagon went over at 10:30 p.m., and trips were ___ in rapid succession up to daylight. Thn came the ascent of a mountain and a hard pull of seventeen miles. The overturning, down a twenty food embankment, of the property wagon, caused a delay of an hour, but thanks to prompt and efficient work by manager Adam Gillispie and Capt. Snider, whose wagon show experience in the Southern mountains stood him in good stead, the wagon was hauled up to the road in good condition, and the horses extricated without receiving a scratch. Despite the delay, Georgetown, Pa., was reached in time for the shows, and as everybody took hold and hustled, and the band played at about the usual time, the crowd was unusually good at the matinee, ___ of the fact that it was the day of the annual merchantmen's excursion to a nearby resort, and twelve carloads of excursions the town in the morning. At night the side show broke all records and the big top was crowded. Midway, the second stand in Pennsylvania gave us two good houses. The town, twenty miles from Pittsburg, looked bad, but it redeemed itself in good shape. . . . For two weeks we will be in Washington County, and then head straight South.
A pleasant event at Hanaverton, O., Saturday, was the presentation to Capt. Snider, the lion king, of a handsome oil painting of "Spitfire." The presentation was made in the menagerie, and Fletcher Smith did the honors. The captain was rendered speechless, but showed his appreciation later in a perfectly satisfactory manner. The Goldie Sisters are to spend the winter season as features of the leading burlesque company. They are under the management of John Spaulding and George R. Taylor. They are pronounced blondes, and both clever musicians. Little Ethel, the popular and talented daughter of Mrs. Curvin Zech, celebrated her seventh birthday last Tuesday. She received many pretty remembrances from the big show people. . . .
Lee Le Vant's Big Tent Show. This show, which is now touring the Northern Michigan resorts, is pleasing the people at every performance. Our outfit is all new, and we have surrounded ourselves with a company of ladies and gentlement, who make many friends in every place visited. We play all week stands, and change our programme every night. Our roster is as follows: Lee Le Vant, proprietor and manager; Ella Le Vant, treasurer . . . the Vernon Trio (Eva, Edith and Vernon), musicians, dancers and singers . . . The remarkable wire and ___ acts of Lee Le Vant are a hit at every performance. The Great Snyder is a pedestal clog and dancing marvel. Guy Stanley, magician, is a big succes, introducing this year several novel illusions. . . . We also carry a picture machine and give 1,000ft. pictures every night . . . The Vernon Trio has arranged a new programme of popular music, playing both before and during performances. Everyone is happy and this the the most profitable season we have ever had.
Frank Carey is meeting with success presenting his novelty juggling and hoop rolling act with Le Vant's Sohw. The show is doing big business playing the country resorts in Michigan.
Chas. Eldridge Griffin, of the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows, writes: "My parents, J. W. H. and Jennie Griffin, celebrated their fiftieth anniversary of married life at Albia, Ia., June 24. At the time of their marriage, J. W. H. Griffin was editor and publisher of the Richmond Mirror, and Richmond, Mo., and the bride, Fannie H. Morse, of Wallingford, Conn., was musical instructor at the Ladies' Seminary, Richmond. Ten children were born to them - Chas. Eldridge, now of the Al. F. Wheeler Circus; Wm. B., sheriff of Monroe County, Iowa; Lina M. Lowe, ___, Tex.; Lucia B., well known elecutionist and magazine writer; Frank S., formerly of 'Bob' Hunting's, John Robinson's and Buffalo Bill's Shows; Harry A., train dispatcher of the New Moffit Road at Denver; Fred, of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show; Dr. John M., formerly of the 'Bob' Hunting Circus, but now located at Sulphur Springs, Ark., and Anna L. Jones, of Ft. Collins, Col., Nellie, the tenth child, died in infancy."
Harry Merkley, at one time a well known acrobat, died Aug. 2, at his home, corner of Sanders and South Division Streets, St. Johnsville, N.Y., after a long illness. He was born at Williamsburg, Can., Sept. 13, 1852, and first entered the show business in 1868, with La Rue's Carnival Minstrels. Afterward he joined McLear Brothers' Co. At one time he was a partner of Charles O'Brien, and the O'Briens did one of the cleverest acrobatic acts of their day, touring with the Great Eastern Show, Barnum's and other first class circuses. Mr. Merkley also appeared with Peck & Fursman's and Washburn's "U. T. C." companies, and J. C. Lewis' "Si Punkard" Co. Of late years he was an agent, his last engagement being with Hunt's New Silver Plate Show.
Adelaide Macart, one of the Three Macart Sisters, died Sunday, July 26, in the Catskill Mountains, from hasty consumption. The body is being taken to England.
New York Clipper, August 22, 1908, p. 685. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Buffalo Bill Wild West advertising car No. 2 spent Sunday, Aug. 9, in Minneapolis, Minn. While there "the boys" were royally entertained by Local No. 10 to a banquet, and it was one of the most sociable Sundays ever spent on the road. On July 4 all enjoyed themselves by spending the day at Salisbury Beach. Two motor boats were chartered, and refreshments and fishing tackle procured, and it was one of the pleasantest days ever spent on an advertising car. Everybody called it one of Victor Cooke's great Fourth of July outings, or one of Cook's tours. Roster of the car: Victor Cooke, manger; Harley White . . . J. Lyons, Shorty Turner, Henry Mason, J. Hyland, W. Winn, Lugg Sullivan, J. Reardon, "Anarchist" Von Dien . . . Jas. Britt, Roy Cady, J. Morrison and G. Lasher.
Notes from the Great Wagner Show. We are now in our twelfth week, doing a nice business. We are not playing to S. R. O. nightly, as other small shows are doing, but at the same time we are taking care of all we can handle for a show of this size. We have a neat show and give a good performance, and we send the people home happy. We had an old friend call on us last Sunday - Al. G. Millens, the old circus clown. He just came from a two years' run out West, and we all had a good time.
Samuel Keister, boss of the stakemen with Ringling Bros.' Circus, was compelled to leave the show at Logansport, Ind., with an attack of pneumonia. He was hurried to his home at Danville, Ill.
Chas. Carroll, acrobat, with Cole Bros.' Circus, was seriously injured Aug. 3, by falling thirty feet and breaking both hips, while playing Augusta, Me. He is in the City Hospital, at Manchester, N.H.
Ringlings' Circus train in a wreck. A dispatch from Bellingham, Wash., dated Aug. 17, stated that the first section of Ringlings' Circus train was wrecked at Port Kells, B. C., on the Great Northern Railroad, thirty miles north of Bellingham, afternoon of Aug. 16. Half a dozen attendants are reported hurt. Clipper, Augist 29, 1908, p. 712: Last week a wire from Bellingham, B. C. stated that a section of the Ringling train was wrecked at Port Kells, B. C. This was an error, as it was the Barnum & Bailey Circus train . . . A later dispatch gave more details, and was as follows: "Barnum & Bailey's Circus suffered severe damage, Aug. >U>17, in a wreck on the Great Northern Railway near Port Kells, B. C. The wreck was due to a defect in the ___. Eight circus men were injured, three of them fatally. Four cars were thrown into the ditch. . . ."
Martin G. Milligan, agent, who recently closed with the Sells-Floto Shows, is in New York City.
Al. F. Wheeler's Show notes. For a week we have played the mining towns along the Monongahela River, and although the show is entirely unknown, it has established a reputation that will last. Business has been not only good at the matinees, but in several towns it has been nearly the seating capacity. Last Sunday and Monday we were at California, and Monday entertained for the day Earl Burgess, the well known repertory manager. He came on to get an insight into the road show business, and he was most favorably impressed with the "New Model." That he has serious intentions of embarking in the wagon show business was very evident. Business was great at night, and good at the matinee. Monessen gave us two good crowds. Belle Vernon fell in line, and Lucyville followed suit. It is surprising the amount of business done in towns with nearly the entire male population at work during the day. Although the section visited proved entirely satisfactory, the show will make a quick jump across the Southwestern part of Pennsylvania, and take in a few of the summer resorts before the vacation season closes.
One town must not be forgotten - Star Junction, a small mining town - which wagon show managers must put down in their date books. It was a "find" of general agent Frink's, and it was one of the "big ones" of the season. The big top was jammed at night, and the side show gave an extra performance. Vanderbuilt, on Friday, was good at the matinee, although a late arrival prevented the parade. At night it was the same old story. On Saturday we played across the river from Connellsville, and although we did not look for big business, the crowds at both performances proved that a wagon show at popular prices can follow the big ones and get the money.
Charlie Griffin and Fletcher Smith spent a couple of pleasant hours between shows with the Smith Carnival Co., at Monessen, Tuesday, and met many old friends. Ed. Bell, superintendent of privileges, is all smiles nowadays. No more moving picture business for him, he says, as long as the present business keeps up. Claude Hamilton's baritone is very much in evidence in the big band, and the Hamilton Family Band is waking them up at the head of the parade. Several new acts are now under engagement for the big show, and a long season South is an assured fact. Curvin Zech had the misfortune a few days ago to break some bones of his right little finger, preventing him from working for the present in his big act. He is substituting a wire act, and his wife and child are working alone. . . . Adam Gillespie, after a week's illness, is back in harness again, and playing "more cornet" than ever. Everybody is looking forward to the Eastern tour, and a chance to get back once more within a Sunday distance of good old New York. The weather has been splendid for so long that a little rain would be appreciated. It is long drives daily, and dusty roads, but there are no "dusty Rhodes" with this show. Everybody well, happy and prosperous.
Ringling notes. Aside from the business, which was a foregone conclusion, the Chicago engagement (for the first time under canvas) developed many pleasant featrues. The Ringling Show is the ___ of many scattered notable in the variety and circus world. Chicago was a convenient place for their reunion, and although the weather was curling hot, they gathered at the ringside of the great institution of cherished memories, and recalled stories and incidents, and made merry with song and jest, until the Eastern sky began to show the pink gleam of a rising sun. Doc Keeley, Brown Brothers, Artie Nelson, John Judge, Gertie Judge, Dacoma Family, and Bill O'Dell were at the reunion. "Slivers" Oakley, although not a Ringling graduate, was a welcome visitor, and came many miles to visit the "Real Show.
Joe Miller, who wore epaulettes with the Forepaugh Show for many seasons, joined last week as assistant boss canvasman to Jimmy Whalen. Joe says his books are now balanced - that is, all the hardship of other days is now canceled by arrival with the big show. He looks as restful as a duck on a millpond, and if there is any virtue in signs he is the right man in the right place. The big towns of last week were Logansport, Lima and Mansfield, and they were daisies - Mansfield won the blue ribbon. Farms were locked up for the day, and town business took a recess for the show. The streets were a garden of moving colors, and the "big top" was pinched for breathing room. Fort Wayne was as dull as a ditch pond, and business flapped like a wet sail. The populations of Plymouth and Huntington were swalled by the afternoon shows, so that the night in each town were quiet affairs that gave the ticket sellers a chance to rest their tired voices.
Mrs. Lew Graham was a visitor last week. Jake sternad, of the Western Vaudeville Association, has been hovering around the show for a week or more. He put starch and style into the concert, and a keen one with his ear near the rail says Jake is corraling a bunch of big stars for next year's show. Jake was with Ringling Brothers once. I think he played in the family band when the world looked big and difficult to all of them. We all missed Kerry Meagher as a railer during the short Chicago visit. Kerry was in the ticket wagon for years and now he is close to Ed. Kohl, the head and lungs of the Western Vaudeville Association. Kerry was away on his vacation. It has been many a year since Kerry had this privilege before. He is a gain to any business, and a boon as a friend.
The Flying Jordans' home is in Bellefontaine, and it must have made their hearts glad when they saw the crowds there and their ears heard the thundering greetings they caused at every entrance. Crowds stood around the main entrance and green room inquiring for them, and it was surprising that they could go through with their exacting performaces after so much hand-shaking and friendly excitement. George Hartzell stopped a runaway horse at Bellefontaine. The animal was going at a mad clip, when Hartzell made a grab at the bridle, and after being dragged about twenty feet, brought the runaway to a stop. A woman and two children were in the vehicle. George said it was "nothing," and refused to talk about it. He limps slightly, but went through his work the same afternoon without the slightest hitch.
The ball club lambasted Uncle Sam's employees at Lima, and took the conceit out of the Bellefontaine to the tune of 6 to 3. Vena Clark, sister of the famous Clarkonians, made her debut as a rider with Ringling Brothers last week. She is young and pretty, and rides with distinctive grace and style. Tripp and Horton have been perfecting a double club act, which they introduce this week. A crowd of performers and officials went to Columbus last Sunday. Bud Gorman is a class A taxpayer there. Stanley Dawson owns several flats that bring him in a tidy sum every month. Guy Steeley went over to see his brother, who is in the candy business. Guy is famed as a producer of "sweet language." Guess sweetness runs in the Steeley household what a loadstone it must be for unattached youth.
New York Clipper, September 5, 1908, p. 735. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Miller Bros.' 101 Ranch Wild West Show. Hillsdale, Mich, Aug. 25. We have in the past week been made to realize that the season is drawing to a close in Northern territory, and to wonder where the overcoat is to be found. Three days did we appear on the lot in our warmest winter suit, and those who were fortunate enough to be able to get to the overcoat lost no time doing so. Through the courtesy of J. J. Rosenthal and the management of "Little Johnnie Jones" Co., the members of the 101 were royally entertained at the Casino, in Toledo, O., on Snuday last, an invitation having been extended to the entire show to attend the afternoon performance, and the opportunity to witness a very clever play, cleverly enacted, was taken advantage of by nearly every officer and performer with the show. It would be a pretty hard matter to tell which made the greatest hit with the cowboys, a very pretty chorus or the "Unknown."
George Hooker (Mexican George) was severely hurt 22, when he was unable to get away from a falling horse while riding buckers. He dislocated his hip, has a fracture of two ribs and internal injuries. Miss Allen has rejoined the show, and will be riding again in about a week. Frank Maish is doing the fancy riding during the absence of George Elser. Harry Markwood is going to resign from the staff and become a cowboy. He is very efficient with the lariat - sometimes. Vester Pegg has transferred his liking for the riding of bronchos to that of a certain big white steer, which knows more about bucking than many a broncho. For the first time since they have been doing their rube act, Dan Dix and Howard Compton today picked out a soft spot to make a number of funny falls in, with the result that Compton was badly disabled and carried to Dr. Rudolph Muller for treatment. W. Willis and Oscar Rixon left the show at Toledo, and while a number of people imagined the leaving of Rixson would cripple Melvin Saunders act, they have been agreeably surprised to see him break in a new man and making the same breathless hit at each performance by his daring feats of horsemanship.
Blake Connell is daily greeting his old friends along the line, and winning others. H. Nelson has been made official announcer at the door. W. Mattaley, the oldest man with the show, an ex-United States marshal and famous as an Indian fighter, was put out for the first time in his life by an Indian. While being introduced in the arena during an afternoon performance recently, he was run into by an Indian taking the place of Bull Bear, who has been on the sick list, and, as the Indian was not familiar with the work required of him, he collided with Mr. Mallaley. The latter rode out the introduction and then went to the dressing tent, where he was helped from the saddle, and it was found that his left leg was broken below the knee. Eddie Partington Chelf, of the front door squad, has recoved from his recent illness and is again at work.
Al. F. Wheeler's Show notes. For the past two weeks we have been practically out of civilization, playing the inland mountain towns of Somerset County, experiencing hard roads and late arrivals, but the business warranted the trouble, and a region that has not seen a one ring show is loud in its praises of the "New Model." It is a safe bet, however, that it will be years before another show makes the territory. From now on we are in real towns, opening last Friday at Bedford, a noted summer resort, and the town was close on to the big day of the season. The summer people from the Springs packed the tent in the afternoon, and came prepared to have a good time. They certainly enjoyed themselves, took in everything from the side show to the concert, and went back for supper, only to return at night arrayed in all sorts of fantastic getups, and certainly whooped things up. It was a good natured revelry, and was enjoyed as much by the performers as by the audience.
Saturday, at Everett, business was the same - two big crowds. The show is making this season the longest tour in its history,and it is probable that the show will fly before the last band concert is given. A. D. Reynard, trick cyclist, closed Saturday, to fill vaudeville dates, and a new outside attraction was substituted Monday. Curvin Zech has entirely recovered from his accident, and the trio is putting on the original act. Made necessary by hard roads, general repairs have been made on all the wagons, and the show is now equipped for any obstacles that may be encountered. From now on everyone is looking forward to a season of good weather, good roads and business. It is up to the weather man for the former, and general agent Frink guarantees the rest.
The B. O. A. Tigers. The Tigers, the unique circus organizatoin, has been in successful existence since 1903, with headquarters at Bridgeport, Conn. The Hall is situated over Poli's Theatre, and is fully and comfortably equipped. A hearty welcomis assured to all visiting professionals. Thomas Stickler is the president, and Tom Lynch, "Pop" McLain and Dan Taylor are other mainstays of the organization. During the stay of the big show in winter quarters, particularly, the Tigers' rooms are the meeting place of all the show people in Bridgeport.
Hagenbeck-Wallace notes. We are enjoying a most successful season. Business for the two weeks the show was in Missouri was very large, and business more recently, in Iowa, has been very good. The performance is being highly spoken of by the press and public. The show goes into Chicago, Oct. _, for a two weeks' stay, under the auspices of the policemen and firemen of that city. Late this Fall a brief Southern tour will be made.
Notes from the Silver Family Circus. This show is doing a wonderful business for a small show, playing to capacity every night, and turning them away a number of stands, and it is impossible to get the crowds in the tent, let alone seating them. The roster is as follows: The Silver Family, of eight musicians and performers; Three Burns Bros., triple bars and brother act; Melzer Bros., double trapeze, equilibrists and trick house; Earl and Dick Silver, jugglers; Arthur De Golda, clown and comedian; Frank V. Carpenter, Irish and Duthc comedian; Stanley E. Penney, Jew and black face comedian; Harry F. Silver, vocalist; Rufus Durbill, boss canvasman; Jay Linsday, boss hostler; J. F. Merrill, advance agent; ten canvasmen and teamsters, thirty-two people, twenty horses. Next season will carry a larger canvas and tak our same route. We close at Crystal, Mich., Sept. 5, and open in Opera House Sept. 14.
Will Neff, who is in England with Cummins and Brown's Wild West, returns to America in September, to accept an assignment with one of the road companies.
William J. Gilman, who for the past four years has been special contracting press agent for Campbell Bros.' Circus, writes that he has closed and is going to take the management of a theatre in the West.
J. H. Boyer notes. The J. H. Boyer Famous Show, with a company of thirty people, band and orchestra, steam calliope, a troupe of Russian poodles and the largest car ever built, is playing to S. R. O. in Southern Iowa and Missouri. We have been out continually for four years, without a blow down, an accident or a wreck. We are now headed South for the winter. Everything is running smoothly, and we are getting the best of satisfaction and winning the high praise from press and public. Following is the roster: J. H. Boyer, owner; Max Boyer, treasurer; Floyd Trover, general manager; Jack Walker and wife, Mrs. Otto Johnson, Eloise Peyton, Lula Alexander, Ben Glavin, Dal. Davenport, Three Coxas, Guy Linder, Warren E. Long, Wilbur Long, Tom Kelso, Grover Curry, Will Sheldrake, Pete Kennedy, Frank Miller, Peter shelburn, Arthur Ryan, Andy Miller. Ike Williams, charge of canvas, with seven assistants . . . and Prof. King, band leader, with ten men. Everybody is well and happy, and the "ghost" always appears on Sunday.
New York Clipper, September 12, 1908, p. 764. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Ringling notes. The World's Greatest Shows lost Springfield, Ill., on account of the negro riots ther. Decatur, Bloomington, Peoria, Galesburg and Quincy, the other towns of the week, beginning Aug. 17, were holiday editions of happiness and profit. Long hauls were made short by favoring weather and the Ringling model service. This week began at Davenport, under skies as serene as a sleeping sea. It was a long ways to the grounds, but neither man nor beast seemed to feel it. Both these factors in the big show's success are abundantly supplied with the essential comforts of life by Ringling Bros., and thus derive the right spirit and form for efficient work. A beautiful city park spread out before the main entrance to the circus settlement, and the crowds poured through like a mountain fed stream from early dawn until the last covered wagon had rolled away.
Stirling honored it name for the big show Tuesday and Wednesday, and Clinton displayed the fervor of its patriotic namesake. Cedar Rapids flamed like a forest fire for Thursday's stand. Country people crowded the sidewalks, hotels and restaurants, and made the "biggest tent ever made" loom up as too small by half. Waterloo was hot on the hells of Cedar Rapids for the honors of the week. These are red letter days for the farmer. He, of all people, enjoys and cultivates the circus. Therefore, the great show which bears the name of Ringling Brothers, is a chosen friend, and always welcomed with the heart and reward of sincerity. There is a lesson in this quick story for him who would rise and indure in circus management.
George Ade is a frequent visitor to the circus. He likes it, and munches peanuts at its ring curb with the heavenly satisfaction of a nine-year-old. Alf. T. Ringling was last heard from at Basel, Germany. He says he likes the Old World from any angle you choose to take. It is his maiden trip. He adds: "They have no Yankee press agents, but know a few other tricks that speed some." Mike Nagle came back from the Southwest the other day, looking as spruce as a West Pointer at parade hour. Mike captains the opposition brigade, and likes to give territorial intruders a touch of high life. Doc Waddell was a visitor at Waterloo. He was unattached, he said, having quit the Western show. Doc is liked by newspaper men generally, and will not be free long from the daily grind of a useful agent's work.
The baseball club was lambasted hard by a minor league club, at Cedar Rapids. The team had gotten so chesty from continued success that it had to order new jerseys. The Cedar Rapids boys "pled" their vanity to the most humiliating tune of 15 to 1. The lonesome tally looked like an act of charity. George Hartzell says there were several big league "ringers" in the bunch that "cooked their goose." Al. Ray, our detective cheif, was married at Lafayette, Ind., Aug. 15, to Sadie Arnold, of Cleveland, O. It was a big surprise to everybody with the show, and if good wishes and friendly thoughts secure the future, the happy couple will live in a terrestial paradise. Pearl Souder, for many years elephant boss and trainer with Ringling Brothers, died at a Wisconsin sanitarium last week. Up to a year ago Pearl was apparently in the best of health. Since then his physical decline has been rapid, and at the opening of the season he was obliged to seek a rest retreat. Pearl Souder was a stern but kindly man, exact in his work, and lived largely within himself. Ringling Brothers have lost a good man, the menagerie employees a loyal associate, and the circus world one who has added greatly to one of its most attractive features. He left an estate of several thousand dollars.
Tom Dailey, manager of advertising car No. 2, has a good winter picking in the billposting plant and opera house at Coatesville, Pa. Dailey has been a circus agent nearly thirty years, and in his specialty is without a peer. He is a past master in the art of reaching people through advertising channels. Guy Steeley has rented a New York flat for the winter. Guy has several plays which he hopes the torrid air of Broadway will develop into things of profit as well as pride. Bob Meek is responsible for the slick appearance of the two hundred performing horses with the big show. They are laved and combed and embellished like footlight favorites of a crowned success. Tom Buckley is learning Esperanto, and predicts it will be the universal language in another generation. At "dry" towns in Illinois, like Decatur, Rockford and Galesburg, the show did a better business than ever. John Sheehy, the front doorkeeper, goes with manager Cort next winter. It is his second season. Vena Clark, sister of the Clarkonians, is now a rider with the show. She is young and pretty, and has a natural style. Al. Miaco was much upset by the death of Tony Pastor. They were clowns together many years ago. Superlative business keeps everybody smiling and benevolent.
101 Ranch Prospers. The Miller Bros. and Edward Arlington have renewed their contract to continue the 101 Ranch Real Wild West Show for a term of years, and next season it will be increased one more train.
New York Clipper, September 19, 1908, pp. 786, 788. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Hunt's Silver Plate Show. We have been out sixteen weeks this season. Our business has run from fair to extra good all season, and we have left a good reputation in very place visited. We hae made a number of changed in the band and dressing room, and we now have a sone ring show second to none. The roster is as follows: Henry Savage, band leader; Wm. Badger, cornet; Henry Brown, baritone; Ed. Green, tuba; Al. Light, slide trombone; George Wortheim, clarinet; Roy Miller, trap drums. Performers are: Mr. and Mrs. ed. Simpson, breakaway ladder, perch and impalement act; C. T. Hunt, juggling wire act and double traps . . . Ira Williams, single and double traps; Carlton and Hadley, revolving ladder and comics; Master Charles Hunt, singling and knockabout clown; the trick ponies, Helen and Fred, and the dogs, and Diamond, the talking and tight rope walking pony. We have the following acts: Bertina, serio comic; Little Charlotte, ballad singer . . . Carlton and Hadley, the Hebrew and sport; C. T. Hunt, illustrated songs . . . Max Elliott is general agent, and is doing good work steering us down in the country where duck trousers are comfortable on Christmas Day.
Items from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. On Sunday, Aug. 30, we made a twenty-six mile drive from Everett to McConnellsburg, a county seat, eight miles from any railroad, which gave us two turnaway houses. At Mercersburg, Sept. 1, we had two capacity performances. Earl Burgess, of the Burgess ___ attractions, visited us here. Mr. Burgess reports theatrical business prosperous. At Greencastle, 2, we encountered opposition form the Cole Bros., but our business here indicates that we need not fear opposition. Indeed, our stands are so close together and telephones are so handy that a performance is scarcely finished before the citizens of our next stand are informed of the excellence of our entertainment. We are all sorry that twe made Smithburg, Md., Sept. 3, because that's where we lost our good friend, Fletcher Smith, who left us there to join the Cole Bros. at Waynesboro. All join in wishing him abundant success. At Thurmont, Md., Sept. 4, we gave two performances to capacity, notwithstanding the fact that we arrived very late. Capt. Snyder met with a very painful accident there. While adjusting the harness on a fractious horse the beast kicked him in the chest, but luckily no bones were broken, and the captain appeared in his various acts. At Emmettsburg, Md., Sept. 5, we struck opposition with Howe's London Shows, which were there five days ahead of us. Our tents were crowded in the afternoon, and we had a good night attendance, in the face of a pouring rain, which continued all night. . . . Monday, Sept. 7, finds us in the beautiful little village of Taneytown, Md., historical in connection with Gettysburg. General agent F. J. Frink is back with us today, and he reports everything lovely ahead. The Zech Trio closes here to play Fair dates.
Notes from Hever Bros.' Greater Show, with one hundred and fifty people, one hundred and thirty-five horses, vaudeville and circus specialties. We started out from Columbus, O., May 1, and will stay out till snow flies. We have played to big crowds everywhere. We had a cracker jack show this year, but watch us next season. We spare no money on our shows, and this helps us to win out.
Notes from Prof. McFall's Famous Dog Circus. This show is in its fourth week, playing Northern Indiana to fair business. Everyone is well and happy, and everything points to a prosperous Fall season. The dogs trained by Prof. McFall are certainly making them talk everywhere they are seen. The professor has just finished training his wonderfully educated dog, Dooley, to walk the tight wire (No. 12 wire), which he considers to be the hardest trick he has ever trained a dog to do. The different departments are managed as follows: Prof. McFall, proprietor and manager; G. F. McFall, advance; Ed. McFall, boss canvasman; Oscar McFall, boss hostler.
Notes from Howard Damon's Show. We opened promptly as scheduled, at the Jefferson, O., Fair, Aug. 18. On Wednesday (the big day of the fair) we did a tremendous business, and on the other days the attendance was good. The day stands have all been fair. At the Butler, Pa., fair no one was turned away, yet the tents were packed at every performance, and hundreds were seated on the grass. There is no standing room with this show - when no more can be seated, the doors are closed. Mr. Damon has a complete train of his own cars, one advance car and a box brigade. He carries a fine menagerie and a long, interesting parade. The show played at Conneaut Lake, Pa., faiar, Aug. 31 and Sept. 1-3; Albion, Pa., Sept. 4, and Geneva, O., Sept. 5, after which three or four jumps will put us South of the Mason and Dixon line for the winter.
Notes from the Ideal Ten and Twenty Cents Tent Show. We closed Aug. 20, a very prosperous season of fourteen weeks, notwithstanding the rainy and bad weather in the Spring and strong opposition all sumer, we have not had a losing week. At Banister, Mich., three or four drunken rowdies raised a small disturbance, which was the only trouble of any kind we had during the entire season. Ed. Cross will take the show out next season, the Newcomb Family retiring from the business. The show will be greatly enlarged and cover about the same territory.
New York Clipper, September 26, 1908, pp. 802, 812, 813. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Ben Dunham, of the Marvelous Dunhams, with Circo Tatali, writes from Trojello, Peru, under date of Aug. 23: "Since my last letter to the dear Old Reliable, we have had a fine tour of Chili, Bolivia and Peru, and all to fine, big business. Our first trip from Lima, Peru, to Iquique, Chili, was five days by steamer. We showed under tent there within a stone's throw of the spot where the strikers were mowed down by the soldiers a few months before. Although the town was in deep mourning, we did a splended business. From there we went to Antofogasta, Chili, a fine trip by steamer, where we turned people away at every show for three weeks. We then went to Oruro, Bolivia, by train, and were the first circus show to make the journey over the new railroad, which has lately been completed. Our business was fine for one week in Oruro. From there we went to La Paz, Bolivia, where we again turned them away for twenty-one shows. Then we bent to Arequipa, Peru, crossing the highest navigable lake in the world. Our company stood the trip well, although quite a few fainted aboard ship. The scenery was grand, and the train trip around the mountains after leaving the boat was beautiful. We rode for several miles above the clouds. Looking down o the white clouds from where we were was just like seeing rough sea foam. It was one of the prettiest sights that I ever witnessed.
"Arequipa is the second largest city in Peru, with a population of about 40,000. It is a very old fashioned city, with all houses made of stone, no fire department in the city, and the sewage is carried off by a running stream from the mountains. The stream is on the outside edge of all the sidewalks, and is about eighteen inched in width. The hauling is all done by llamas or mules. We had another record breaker for business, and for twenty-two consecutive shows we turned them away. When Mr. Tatali announced the last show the audience asked him to stay longer. Our next stand was Mollendo, Peru, a seaport town of little consequence, but we did a splendid business for eight shows there. Then we had another seven days on the steamer to Trujello, Peru, where we are now on our fourth day, and have turned them away every show thus far. From here we go to Guayaquil, Ecuador, thence to Guatemala, Salvador and Nicaragua, and return to Cuba. We have now been en route since Nov. 10, 1907, and I must say it has been one of the most pleasant tours we have ever had, both socially and financially. My kind regards to all friends."
Fron the Ringling Bros.' Show. Business continues at the same high pressure. Hutchinson, Kan., was the only town recently to fall below a turnaway. Kansas City set the pace Monday, Sept. 7, and Wichita, Kan. finished the week under a headway that makes a new record for this gingery town and Ringling Bros. And it came to pass in this splendid week's business that Great Bend, Kan., furnished the largest concert receipts in the history of the "World's Greatest Shows." The man of the hour, the farmer, is an interesting study these days. Ringling Bros. have sowed well in his esteem, and now are reaping the harvest of right doing. Whatever the experience of others, the man of the farm, with helpmeet and little ones, is joyfully waiting to greet and honor the big show of Ringling Bros. He buys the best seats, provides the children with balloons and popcorn, and overflows with good nature. He knows he is the guest of tried friends, and in this little story of the countryman's ready money, and discerning use of it, there is a picture of health and thrift the wily showman and politician never see. The world is good and strong for those that mke it good and strong;or, as Huxley wisely puts it, "in proportion as one gives out, also does he get back." This, of course, is the point and not the work of his philosophy. I don't know if Ringling Bros. have a motto, but, if so, it is safe to say it etches this principle of life.
There is a lot of small betting going on in circus colony as to when and where the season will end. Wagers have been made for and against a score of black towns in Mississippi and Alabama, running the date out so far as Nov. 20. When the truth becomes known, a number of aggressively wise ones will quit smoking for a while. "Blackie" Johnston is handling the big herd of performing elephants with a decision and skill that compels admiration. "Blackie" has had a good training, and is of the silent, industrious kind that do things. It is an odd and facinating sight to see Charlie Smith, head animal boss, promenade with two chimpanzees around the big menagerie tent between shows. He has taught the Darwinian heirs to act like humans in a most amazing way. A big part of the police force at Kansas City was stirred to "take a look" at them, because of the humorous report that an alderman who had been dead several years, had returned to earth in another shape, without changing his voice, but ___ the same features.
The show trains were unloaded so near the exhbition grounds in Kansas City that Bob Taylor, transportation boss, insists it was an accident, and Spicer Delavan says his baggage horses were so nervous that night they couldn't sleep. All of which spells the season has had an extra share of long hauls. Allie Webb won enough hats on the Gans-Nelson fight to stake a Mormon church for the winter. The Jordan Family will spend winter at the Circus Busch, Berline. The Clarkonians go to Paris. Patty Bros. and Jackson Family will illuminate "polite vaudeville" on our own shores. Bob Stickney is affectionately hailed by "old uns" wherever the show goes. He is not riding now, but they remember vividly when he did, and than whom there was none better. The show is to exhibit in Virginia soon, for the first time in its career. A lot of money will go to the other side when the show closes. Those born on American soil do not seem to have the "holding on" trait so strongly developed. The horses and wagons look almost as fresh now as when the season opened, which bespeaks the harmony and quality of the Ringling organization. The big show only appears in three Oklahoma cities, and a number of smaller places are accordingly disturbed, and have had their papers take the matter up and committees appointed to see if a change of plans could not be effected.
From the Wheeler Show. Taneytown, Md., Sept. 7, gave us big business, afternoon and night, with ideal circus weather prevailing. Littlestown, 8; McSherrystown, 9; New Oxford, 10, and New Berlin, 11, all in the "Penn. Dutch" country, were light in the afternoon but big at night. These people are very provident and well-to-do - so industrious that they won't "waste" time by going to a show in daylight, but they turn out well at night, and seeem to enjoy the show immensely. At Dover, 12, we packed them in, afternoon and night, many coming out from York, seven miles by trolley and automobile, to witness the performance. Many expressions of pleasure were heard as they started for home, and a few remained over for the night show. Mrs. Wheeler, who recently went to her home at Troy, N.Y., for a visit, returned and brought her father, Mr. ___, who will spend a few weeks with us. Curvin Zech was also a visitor. Spring Grove, 14, proved to be one of the banner towns of the season. We spent Sunday there, and as York is only nine miles distant, with trolley connection, it was a very enjoyable day indeed. Wm. Trout, clown and equestrian, visited with relatives and friends at Lancaster, 13, and Albert Gaston, our principal clown, Sundayed at York. General agent F. J. Frink and ?. H. Hayden, of the advance, were back with us 14. We did a good day's business at Seven Valleys, 15. Ed. Bell made his debut here as a talking clown. If there is anything in a name, he ought to make good, as Dick and Charlie Bell were famous in that line years ago. Dallastown, 16, another suburb of York, turned out big at both shows, the privileges getting a good share. Red Lion, 17, was also good. Our routes for the past week have run from two to seven miles, over good roads, and as the weather was fine, we have had an ideal circus existence. The performers, musicians and business staff sleep and have breakfast at hotels. Al. F. Wheeler, owner and manager of this establishment, has purchased the opera house at Oxford, Pa., and will run it as a first class combination house.
Notes from Miller Brothers' 101 Ranch. Sept. 19 ends our second week in Kentucky, and business has been anything but satisfactory, with the exception of Louisville and Lexington. The amusement loving public of this State seems to have spent its allowance at the numerous fairs, etc., which have preceded us. J. C. Miller returned from the Ranch at Lexington Suday, as did Edward Arlington from New York. Mr. Beckman and Mr. Thompson were also visitors of the show. Mr. Miller has in turn left for a trip to Atlanta, Ga. A special box was reserved 18 for the entertainment of Governor Wilson, his family and staff, at Frankfort. . . . Sunday we were in Stanford, which is but ten miles from the birthplace of the Miller Brothers. Mrs. G. W. Miller has returned to the show from the ranch, and will continue as a guest until the close of the present season. Everybody happy.
Roster of Wiedemann's Big American Shows, Cosmopolitan Rough Riders and Indian Congress. Introducing the spectacle, "Custer's Last Charge," Thos. F. Wiedemann, sole owner; Jas. Du Bois, business manager; Henry Boggs, arena boos; Levi Hester, official announcer; Joe Donahue, general agent; Jas. Whitmore, car manager; Fred C. Redfield, boss billposter, with ten assistants; Burt Jacobs, bandmaster, with the following musicians: Eddie Moore, Jimmie Richardson, Chas. Elwin, Geo. Vickers, Claud Lamborn, Willie Bender, Joe Jacobs, O. Lanham, Virgil Sutton, Leroy Hester, John Ovally, Fred Simmons, Jas. O'Dair and Oscar Smythe. We also have the following ropers, riders and performers: Colorado Cotton, Billy Rook, Walter Sykes, the Aerial Cromwells (Frank and Maud), John Walker, Gertie Smith, Hettie Hester, Arizona Jac., Jas. Delwin and Rube Jones. Edley Vaught has charge of the privileges, with six assistants; Frank Millard is lot superintendent, with Willie Prievy as assistant, and sixteen men; Mat Moreland, boss property man; Ed. Lawson, boss hostler. Business has been good all summer, and we are looking forward to Oklahoma, bot break the record, as it is always considered a good Wild West State. The show remains out all winter.
Notes from the J. H. Boyer "Ten Nights in a Bar Room" and Advanced Vaudeville Co. We carry thirty people, a band and orchestra, with the largest car ever built, and are packing them to the doors nightly through Missouri. We also carry a steam calliope and a high dive for a free attraction. We will __ all winter. Floyd Trover is manager.
New York Clipper, October 3, 1908, pp. 831, 842. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Shubert & Anderson have planned an all-over-the-country advertising campaign for the New York Hippodrome. They have just leased from the Ringling Bros.' Circus and the Barnum & Bailey Show, also controlled by the Ringlings, four of their large advertising cars used in advance of the shows. These cars are now in the West and South, and in a few weeks will be sent to winter quarters. Instead of sending the cars directly in, the Hippodrome management will stock each with thousands of sheets of printing and billing for the big playhouse and its new production. A crew of eight bill posters will be carried on each car. Railroad arrangements are being made to route these cars through with stops at every city, town and village in the country. Two of the Barnum & Bailey cars are now at San Francisco. One of these will take the Northern route to its destination at winter quarters in Bridgeport, while the other will go over the Southern route, through Texas, the Gulf States and up the Atlantic coast. The cars of the Ringling Circus will cover the middle West. In this way Shubert & Anderson, following the circus method of billing, will cover the entire country with Hippodrome billing. Over 500,000 pieces of paper have been ordered to stock the various cars. John Ringling, who is now with the Barnum Show, will start the cars from the Coast.
P. Richard's Letter, Sept. 14, Programmes at Circus Busch and Schumann, Berlin. Circus Busch opened on Sept. 10 with Houdini as the feature, and the kind reception which was given to this performer proved the good memory of the audience, since he has not appeared in Berlin for the last five years. Houdini introduced, besides his famous escape form the straitjacket, an entire novelty in the form of his original can trick, where he allows himself to be handcuffed and then to be locked into a big can filled up to the brim with water, from which he comes forth after a couple of minutes unharmed and - minue handcuffs. As he has a standing offer of 1,000 marks to anyone proving any portion of his exhibition a "fake," the committee in the ring tries its utmost to earn the tempting prize, and submits Houdini, tin van and even the sawdust around them, to a most thorough examination without success (so far).
Frobel and Ruge, besides Houdini, are the only Americans on the bill. They scored a decided hit in their well known aerial comedy gymnastic act. The Saxon Trio present a sensational strong men's act, wherein they feature the Protos car, which won second prize of the recent auto race around the world (New York-Paris). The identical car with the same chauffeur (Casper Neuberger) runs across a bridge, supported only by the legs of two of the Saxton Bros., a total weight of about 7,000 pounds. The rest of the programme introduced equestrian acts by Ernest Schumann, Frau Mathilde Renz, Gerard and Fontana, ___, Buckhardt-Footit and Fraulein Meta. The clowning was in the hands of Signor Revelli. Mons. Francois and Bimbo and Marzelli.
Circus Schumann opened on Sept. 12 to a crowded house, featuring Director Albert Schumann in his unexcelled achievements of horse training; also the Rowlands Troupe (late of Ringling Bros.' Show), with their marvelous acrobatic antics on and off the tally-ho. An excellent aerial act was presented by the Roeders-Reinats, and the original Sie Hassan Ben Ali's Arabs did some most creditable tumbling. The only American act I could detect on this bill was Miss Yallzitas, with her trained leopards, and there is no need of mentioning that her act proved exceedingly interesting and pleasing as well. The Olympias presented some classic posing in bronze, and Signor Oreste and signora Flochi gave a clever acrobatic performance on horseback. The old time favorite clowns, Adolfo and Coco, proved themselves great laugh provokers, as did also Clown Armando. The riding portion of the programme was represented by Fraulein Nayy, Siznora Ricarda, Fraulein Cliare, Mlle. de Carre and Mr. Woodson. Here Bono introduced a novelty act in the form of eight Spanish mules, who showed excellent training and went through their performance as cleverly as any menage horses.
It had been predicted that Hagenbeck's Great Wild Animal Show, which is playing here for the last eight weeks to seating capacity, would hurt the attendance at the circuses, but the excellent patronage at Busch's and Schumann's bears out the fact that Berlin will support more than two shows at the same time, providing they "have the goods."
New York Clipper, October 10, 1908, pp. 858, 868, 870. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Rippel Show notes. This show is in its twenty-second week, and the season has been one of the oddest in its history. We started out poorly. Our first eleven stands brought no profit. We have had fifty-one days of rain and lost twenty-eight stands. We are now in the State of Indiana, where the drouth has practically burned up everything. Horse feed is almost impossible to get, and it is a hard thing to get lots, as everyone is afraid of fire. Water for stock cannot be had, and we have to haul water three to five miles for the cook house. Business is fair, but everyone is praying for rain.
From the Wheeler Show. We have just finished our nineteeth week, which was satisfactory in every way. We are still among the Germans of Southern Pennsylvania, to light afternoons, but big night business. They are bright, upright and industrious people, and it is a pleasure to be among them. We have had six weeks of drought, and we experience considerable difficulty in getting water for our stock. We have made several changes in the big show programme lately, so the the show is stronger than ever. The La Follette Duo are doing a novel double balancing trapeze act, which always meets with great applause. The Two Flying Fisher, Spanish ring act, make a sensation. They have lately introduce a lot of comedy in the act, which makes it go better than ever. Mrs. C. Z. Hamiton is also making a great het by her clever management of the menage horse, Don Ceasar. M. A. Murray is master of canvas; Frank Smith, assistant; Fred Wirebaugh, boss hostler; Sam Jackson, pony stock; Fred Quarters, poney stock; Gus Berry, chef, and George Taylor, mail agent. Capt. H. Snyder, in charge of the menageries department, is making the natives sit up with his hypnotic lion act. Charles Eldridge Griffin, manager of the side show, is taking care of the press, since the departure of Fletcher Smith.
John Robinson, the famous circus proprietor, married his nurse, Mary Maude Logan, in a private car attached to the Robinson Circus train, at Clarksville, Tenn., at noon, on Sept. 22. The witnesses to the ceremoney were Lillian Robertson and E. C. Cullen. Miss Logan had recently nursed Mr. Robinson through a protacted illness.
Nero, a lion of Leon Washburn's Circus, which is now in winter quarters on Mr. Washburn's farm, near Bound Brook, N.J., broke out of a temporary cage evening of Sept. 30. He wandered about in the dark woods along the Raritan River Road, killing cows and calves, and eating a bit on one when he felt like it. He was shot and killed early the next moring.
Barnum & Bailey's Shows will close Nov. 15, at New Orleans, La. The Barnum & Bailey Show will winter at Bridgeport, and will open as usual at the Madison Square Garden, New York, in March.
Ringling Bros. will bring their season to an end early in November. John Ringling sailed, Sept. 29, for Europe, in search for novelties for the big shows.
John McNulty, ventriloquist. J. J. McNulty informs us of the death of his brother, John A., at Bellingham, Wash., Sept. 24, while en route with the Buffalo Bill Show. Mr. McNulty was forty-four years of age, and had been connected for the past twenty-five years with the leading circuses of the country, among them being Adam Forepaugh Show, Sells & Forepaugh, Barnum & Bailey and Buffalo Bill Show. Interment took place from his late home in Chicago. His wife, daughter, son and brother survive him.
Mrs. Thomas Stirk, of the Stirk Family, well known bicyclists, died at her home in Boston, Mass., Sept. 14, from pleurisy of the heart. She was a native of Birmingham, Eng., and was fifty-one years of age. The Stirk Family was imported to this country by the late Tony Pastor, playing at his old theatre on Broadway. After playing for Mr. Pastor for two weeks, they went with the Barnum Show for five years. They then went to the Sells Bros.' Show, where they remained for thirteen years. Later they played an engagement lasting eight years with the Wallace Shows. The intermnet was in Woodlawn Cemetery, Boston, Sept. 17.
New York Clipper, October 17, 1908, pp. 896, 898. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Items from the Wheeler Show. At Rising Sun, Md., the long drought was broken by copious showers, 28, which developed into a terrific electric storm at night and caused us to abandon the evening performance. Peter Agon, tuba player, closed here and returned to his home at Findlay, O. Peter made many friends with the show and we all hope to see him again. At North East, Md., 29, we realized that we were getting South, the "color line" being drawn here, whites and blacks occupying different sections. We made our first stand in Delaware 30, at Newark, where we did good business afternoon and night, notwithstanding the fact that it was bitter cold, and there was a counter attraction ("Josh Spruceby") at the Opera House. Christiana, Oct. 1, gave us two good houses in spite of a cold, drizzling rain. At Odessa, 2, the negro "snack stands" of the sunny South were much in evidence, and the boys regaled themselves with fried chicken and hot biscuits. It was at Odessa we found a relic of old time circus days, in the way of a circus ring, made by the Dan Rice Show in 1873, thirty-five years ago. Being all grown over with sod it was in a splendid state of preservation,and is held in great reverence by the inhabitants. Oct. 4, 5 finds us at Townsend, Del. Agent J. Russel is back with us here, and he reports everything satisfactor in advance.
Notes of the John Robinson Circus. We are having a splendid season, as the weather has been fine. Business is as good as this favorite show has ever known. All with the show are well, and no closing date has as yet been given out. In fact, there is talk of taking Thanksgiving dinner on the lot, so the outlook for a long season is ours. The following performers with the show were proposed by Al. Olifan, principal clown, in the White Rats of America, and all were accepted: Gerry Vanderbilt, Tony Patt, Jack Wizarde, Gus ___, Harry Lamkins, Ab. Johnson, Gorton Orton, Pat Fitzgerald, Frank Smith, Fred Welcome, Geo. Jennier Jr., Al. Brock, Wm. De Mott, Dan Leon, Ollie Gustard, Chas. Sterling, Julius Sterling . . . Other Rats with the show are: John Rooney and Al. Olifan.
___ and Wilkins, acrobats, joined Burk's Big Railroad Shows, Oct. 3, for the winter season in the South.
E. H. Hayden writes: "I have just closed a very successful season as boss billposter with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. The show has been out about five months, covering territory in New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Maryland. Although this has been a hard year for many shows, business with the New Model has been very good.
Notes from the Kelly Dog and Pony Circus. This show opened April 29, and has had one of the most profitable seasons of its long experience on the road. This season has been a money-maker every week, with the exception of the first three weeks, which were very rainy, and then the show held its own. We have received high praise from both press and public. We have engaged most of the people for next season. Our agent, Mr. Schuch, with two assistants, has certainly made things look yellow with paper.
The Al. G. Barnes Wild Animal Circus notes. We will close our season of forty weeks at Lewiston, Ida., Oct. 20, and ship to our new winter quarters. Work will start immediately on the new wagons and cages, and new cars will be received from the shops in Illinois. Two elephants, two camels, two bears and two leopards are the latest addition, making a total of over one hundred animals. This has been the most successful season the show has ever had, and proprietor Barnes feels justly proud of his efforts to please his patrons and put the balance on the right side of his ledger. We play big cities only, and charge the same admission that the four biggest shows on earth et, and send the people home greatly please.
Captain Demetri, a Russian Cossack with the Campbell Brothers' Show, was fatally injured while the show was at Muscatine. While riding at great speed about the hippodrome track his head struck a tent pole, dislocating his neck and crushing his skull.
Albert Gaston, singing and talking clown, left York, Pa., Sept. 28, to join Burk's Big Railroad Show, at Denver, Col., for a winter season in the Southern States.
Al. F. Wheeler notes. Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows will close the most successful season in its history at Federalsburg, Md., on Saturday, Oct. 17, and go into winter quarters, at Oxford, Pa., where preparations will at once begin for enlarging and improving the show for its 1909 tour. It being Mr. Wheeler's intention to make the the New Model the largest and finest wagon show in America for next season. The menagerie will be augmented by the additon of an elephant, two camels and several new cages. New and larger tents will be used, and several new arenic surprises will be perfected during the winter vacation.
P. Richards' Letter. A Visit to a Typical European Circus - The One Ring Show . . . Sept. 28. As stated in my last letter, I visited the Circus Busch and Circus Schumann. On my return from Dresden I found the following invitation from "Nick" Kaufmann, the undisputed peer of the best of bicycle riders and prince of all good fellows, at my hotel: "Dear Richards. Will you share my box at the circus tonight. The gala opening of a one-ring show ought to prove very interesting to you. Yours, etc., Nick."
And so they did. With all due respect to our American three ring shows, the good, old fashioned one ring circus has a peculiar charm which can never be attained by any mammoth enterprise, such as we are accustomed to see in "the States." You are probably not as much impressed with the magnitude of the show, but the cozy arena, beautiful light effects, and the attraction commanded by each indiviauls act appeal to you and make you feel at hom The audience at the circus is thoroughly cosmopolitan - you see the tall lanky Englishman in faultless evening dress rub elbows with a group of Turks in turban and wide Oriental garbs - in the box to your left you see a jewel-covered, pretty French girl surrounded by an admiring "bunch" of Berliner "Johnnies," and to your right you can overhear a conversation in Spanish, carried on by His Honor the Brazilian Envoy and the gentlemen of his suite. The first two rows of stalls around the ring are almost completely taken up by army officers, the most ardent supporters of any worthy circus over here, and their beautiful gold laced uniforms add greatly to the impression of the scene.
The band strikes up while the big crowd files in, and personages of prominence are being pointed out to you in the different parts of the house. The large centre box is the "Imperial box," (kaiser loge), reaserved for the use of the kaiser and his family, and quite frequently occupied by some members of the imperial household. The management of the circus has to be notified within a half hour if the kaiser's box is to be used by him or members of his family that evening, otherwise it is at liberty to rent it. But if occupied by the kaiser or his following, the box is converted into a veritable flower garden and military guards placed all along the stairway. The sight of the emperor entering while the band plays the solemn chords of the German national anthem, and all the audience paying their respect by rising to their feet until he gives the word to continue the performance, is one never to be forgotten. About thirty uniformed assistants, led by the equestrian directors, enter the ring and line up in double file. The band strikes up a salute and we observe the manager advance to the centre of the ring, bowing to the right and left, amid the frantic cheers and applause of the enthusiastic audience. Tons of floral tributes are spread out before him, some of them sent from quite a distance by friends and well-wishers, the manager makes his welcome speech and bows again, plenty more of applause by the audience, and - the show commences.
The circus performer over here has, comparatively, a much easier time than his brother performers across the big pond, because he is the sole centre of interest while his act is going on, every one of his moves is noticed and every trick appreciated. The same can be said of the clowns, and "Augusts" - especially the "talking clown" receives the same attention as our greatest monologists on the vaudeville stage in America. . . .
New York Clipper, October 24, 1908, pp. 920, 915. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Wheeler Show notes. Our first tour of Delaware has proved eminently satisfactory. Townsend, Oct. 5, gave us two big houses. We struck Clayton, a railroad division town, 6, and it being pay day, we had capacity audiences, afternoon and night. Leipsie, Little Creek and Magnolia, 7, 8, 9, were twons that never had a circus before. They are oyster and fish villiages, located on creeks tributary to Deleware Bay, the nearest railroad being seven miles distant. They closed schools and made circus day a holiday, giving us good business at every performance. After the night show at Magnolia,9, a "gang" from Woodside, a nearby village, thought it their duty to "shoot up" the show, and accordingly attacked the train, en route to Frederica, but were driven off by our men. At Frederica, 10, we had big businees, afternoon and night, in a drizzling rain. They had not had a circus there for three years. After the night show the workingmen gave an oyster banquet, which was enjoyed by all present. Chef Berry held the dining tent up and served the succulent bivalve in any style desired. En route from Frederica to Milford, 10, our train was again attacked by the Woodside "gang." After exchanging a few shots, they hastily retreated, leaving their bicycles behind. At Milford, where we exhibit 12, we are the third circus this season, the John H. Sparks and Frank A. Robbins' Show having preceeded us. We close at Hurlock, Md., Oct. 17, making a season of twenty-four weeks. The heavy baggage will be shipped by railway and the empty wagons driven overland to winter quarters at Oxford, Pa. The show will be enlarged next year.
The Great Loudon & Tuttle Show closed a most successful season of twenty-two weeks at Greenville, Pa. (their winter quarters), on Monday, Oct. 5, to an immense audience. The roster remained without change the entire season, with the following people: the Wentzel Sisters (Vera and Eva), aerialists; Lewis Bros., comedy acrobats; Frank Oskins, comedian, etc., and Madam Muzello's trick dogs. Harry Germaine was in advance, his sixth season ahead of the show. The show will be enlarged during the winter, and will go out next season over the same route - Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia - alnd will carry a band of six pieces.
The Florence Troupe of acrobats will close a very successful season with the Barnum & Bailey Circus on Nov. 5, at Clarksdale, Mo. The troupe has been re-engaged for the season of 1909, opening at Madison Square Garden in March.
The Buffalo Bill Show will close at Memphis, Tenn, Nov. 14.
In the United States Circuit Court at Chicago, Judge ___, in the suit against John H. Sutton and the Van Diemans, last week denied the application of Joseph J. Williams for an injunction under his patent, No. ___, issued March 12, 1907, for improvements in means for producing aerial gymnastic performances. This leaves Sutton and the Van Diemans at liberty to continue their performances on the revolving aerial wheel, which they have been giving at the Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows.
The Sells-Floto Show closed at Dalhart, Tex., Oct. 20
Notes from the Great Lugar Shows and Alexander's Wild West Combination, in winter quarters at the fair grounds, Eaton, O. We have already begun rebuilding and redecorating of the equipment. A number of changes will be made, and a big novelty parade will be made a feature. Jos. A. Lugar is manager of the combined show.
Notes from Heber Bros.' Greater Tent Show. The show pulled in winter quarters, Oct. __, after a successful season's work, with everyone happy. We started out May _, in a snowstorm, and stayed out until freezing weather and heavy frosts. Big business every night, people bringing lap robes. . . . Sometimes it took ten horses to each wagon, and our elephants, ___ and Jim, pushing behind. We had a fine band and excellent performers and helpers. We did not skip one salary day, and envelopes with salaries were never delayed. Our winter quarters are at Columbus, O.
Notes from the Loudon & Tuttle Show. . . . Mrs. Geo. W. Loudon, troupe of thoroughbred Italian greyhounds. The show gave the best of satisfaction all along the line. . . . All contract have been made for 1909, when the show will go out early in May, enlarged to double its size, and will be known as Geo. W. Loudon Greater Show.
Arizona Jack (Miller) died Sept. 25, after a year's illness, aged forty-seven years. He met with an accident a year ago last August, and hasty consumption developed. He had been in the show business over eighteen years, as an expert rifle shot, playing the musuems and conducting his own Wild West show. He had also done water walking, and gave naval battles in his own aquatic spectacles. He lived in Chelsea, Mass., a number of years. His mother survives him.
New York Clipper, October 31, 1908, pp. 941, 942. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Closing of the Wheeler Show. We Sundayed at Milford, Del., Oct. 11, and entertained two large audiences 12, Harrington, 13, was fair. Greenwood, 14, was a "dig-up," although intended only as a feed stand, and it proved to be one of the big days of the season. Bridgeville, 15, was our last stand in Delaware, and it was one of the best. At Frederalsburg, Md., 16, Messrs. Wheeler, Taylor and Griffin were tendered a reception by their Masonic brethren. Federalsburg proved to be one of the banner days of the season. We closed at Hurlock, Md., 17. It has been the most successful season in five years' history of the show. We opened at Marion, N.Y., May 2, making it a season of twenty-four weeks, and traveled by wagon 1,285 miles, through six States, vis.: New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware and Maryland. At the close of the performance, 17, a banquet was tendered to their employees by Mr. and Mrs. Wheeler, which was greatly enjoyed by all present. After partaking freely of the good things to eat, prepared so skillfully by chef A. O. Berry, speech making, music and dancing were indulged in until early in the morning. Adam Gillespie was master of ceremonies, and the unanimous verdict was that the season just ended was the most pleasant we ever experienced. The heavy paraphernalia was shipped by rail, and the empty wagons driven overland to winter quarters at Oxford, Pa., starting from Hurlock, 19. The "New Model" will be materially enlarged for season of 1909.
The Gentry Brothers Show, No. 1, under the management of Frank Gentry, gave two performances in Columbus, Ga., on Tuesday, Oct. 13, at night. This is the first time in the recent history of tent show business that this has occurred. The show was delayed by a wreck, and did not arrive in Columbus until 4:30 in the afternoon. It was already dark when the parade returned to the grounds. The doors were opened at the usual time, and by 7:30 the big tent was full to overflowing and the first performance was started, sale of tickets being continued, the purchasers being allowed to go in as far as the menagerie, and the second performance started at ten o'clock, to which several hundred were turned away. The last performance terminated at 11:30. The Gentry Show has given two performances in the afternoon several occasions, but never before at night. The roster of the No. 1 Gentry Show is as follows: F. H. Gentry, manager; J. B. Austin, business manager; Roy Bush, equestrian director; Alva ___, treasurer; H. Kelly, steward; Beverly White, press agent . . . The No. 1 Show has been on the road for twenty-six weeks, during which business has been uniformly excellent. The show will close the latter part of November, and go into winter quarters at Bloomington, Ind.
The Gollmar Bros.' Show will close at Ripley, Tenn., Oct. 31.
Thomas H. Cash, a well known showman, died in the hospital, in Lynn, Mass., Oct. 18, after a long illness. Mr. Cash was a native of New Orleans, La., and was born June 24, 1854. Early in life he adopted the theatrical profession, and for a number of years worked in theatres, but later traveled with various small combinations. From 1874 to 1876 he traveled through the Southern and Western States with Howe's London Circus, and in 1881 and 1882 he was advertising agent for the Olympic Theatre, in Chicago. In later years he joined the Buffalo Bill Wild West Show, and remained with it for several seasons, going with it to England. He went to Lynn in 1888, and worked for ?. F. Proctor, in the Lynn Theatre. Leaving Lynn for a time, he managed the Castro Theatre, in Lawrence, Mass., and when the Auditorium in Lynn opened, four years ago, he returned to become its advertising agent. He was married in England, to Dabmer C. Healey, and she and three children survive him. His eldest son, Carter, is with the __-McAuliffe Co.
Lon Seeley, a cowboy with Miller Bros.' 101 Ranch Wild West, was shot and killed in a riot at Gulfport, Miss., Oct. 24. He and Lee Vernade, a Gulfport policeman, shot each other to death in the dark, through mistake, while they were trying to put donw a disturbance created by negroes.
New York Clipper, November 14, 1908, p. 990. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
News from South American. The Tony Lowande Circus has done, and is continuing to do, the biggest business and charging the highest prices of admission of any circus that has ever visited Panama, Ecuador, Peru and Chili. There are no acts with the company from either the Pubillones or Tatall Shows, neither are there any American acts in the company, all being European and South American performers. The show also has Lowande's famous performing wild animals, consisting of elephants, lions, tigers, leopards, pumas, hyenas, bears, horses, goats, dogs, monkeys, and with world renowned African riding lion, Brutus. The Tony Lowande Shows as yet have not visited the Argentine or Brazil, having a vast territory yet to be covered in Chili. The closing date has not been thought of. Tony Lowande, accompanied by his wife, is touring Europe, having sailed from Valparaiso, Chili, early in August, via the Magellan Straits, visiting Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, Madeira Islands, Portugal, Spain, France. At present they are in London, form whence they will continue their voyage to Belgium, Holland, Germany, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Russia, Asia Minor, Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria, Servia, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, thence back to France and Spain, and then to New York. Tony Lowande's No. 1 Show in Chili is under the management of Uncle Albelardo Lowande. The No. 2 Show will open in Costa Rica and Panama in January. Performers and new animals will leave England and Germany about Dec. 14, 1908. New tents, consisting of circus, menagerie, dressing rooms, horse tents, etc., which are all completed at M. R. ___'s, __ South Street, New York, will be shipped at the same time. His company will be under the direction of Charles ___.
Notes from the Great Wagner Show. We have closed a very successful season, and are now in winter quarters at Milwaukee. We stayed out as long as we could, but the weather up here in Wisconsin got so cold that we had to pull into quarters. The show remained the same as when we opened. We will enlarge the show some for next season, and carry a few more people. The following people closed with the show, and will again be with us next season: George Wagner, proprietor and manager; Mrs. G. Wagner, treasurer; Jolly Jenaro, clown juggler; Cleo, contortionist; Wilson Sisters, wire act; Forrest, ___ and gun spinner; Clark Bros., acrobats, and the Great Wagner animals.
Cole Brothers' Show closes at Talladega, Ala., Nov. 12 . . .
John Ringling and Max Anderson sail for New York Tuesday, Nov. 10. While abroad they signed many foreign acts for their respective attractions.
Notes from the Silver Family Circus. We closed our tent season Sept. _, after eighteen weeks of banner business for this show. After closing at our home, Crystal, Mich., we played three weeks of very successful fair engagements with our band and orchestra. All hands are now busy around headquarters, painting wagons and cars for next season. We will carry about thirty people, twelve wagons and cars, and play our same route in Michigan. We find it pays to carry a good show and play the same route every year. This Fall we have built to our tow large barns, one hundred feet of wagon sheds, and one hundred and seventy-five feet of cement porch around our hotel, making one of the finest headquarters of any show in America.
J. Ferrandiz Adams, Spanish clown, senior member of the ___ Bros., now with the Barnum & Bailey Show, has signed for the winter Gran Circo Shipp for a tour of Panama and South America.
The Ferres Frediani, acrobatic equestrian act, have been engaged with the Grand Circo Pubillones, Havana, Cuba, for the season of 1909.
Young and La Dell report meeting with great success while touring the West Indies and Panama. They expect to be gone six to eight months with McGinley's New York Circus.
New York Clipper, November 21, 1908, pp. 1013, 1014. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Barnum & Bailey winter quarters. The circus is home again. How the tales and stories will flow! What storms the boys all went through and thriling escapes from wrecks, and so on! But then again, what a joyous times we all had, and look what we have seen. All through the golden West, over the Rockies into Denver, the city of seven hills. Cripple Creek, with its gold mines and into Colorado Spring, a pleasant trip into the most entrancing place, the Garden of the Gods. Only those who have been and seen the wonderful formation can conveive its effects on the human mind. Up to Salt Lake, with all its mysteries of Mormonism, a run over the salt beds to Saltair Beach, a dip in Salt Lake, and a dance in the famous ballroom where 1,000 couple can waltz with ease; on the Montana, passing on the way Livingston, the entrance to the great Yellowstone Park. From the circus train we could see the old time coach and mule just starting on its tour through the park, and here we are in Butte, the city of copper and copper kings. Ask the boys about the Dublin Gulch gang. Although they did not trouble the Big Show, smaller shows have suffered considerably at their hands. From Montana into Wyoming, the home State of Col. Cody (Buffalo Bill). Several of the boys took a run to Cody, and we were pleasantly received by the Colonel's genial and devoted sister. Down into Idaho, the home of the rattlesnake, many an exciting incident occurred.
Proceeding on we at lenght arrived in British Columbia, and what a hit that show from Bridgeport made with the Conuck! The city can well be proud of the Greatest Show on Earth. Back into God's country again, to Coma, Walla Walla and Seattle, Wash., followed down into Oregon. Here many of the boys visited the famous Red Tree Forest, and, day, on the strict q. t., when you hear them say how tall and big they are, just smile - that's all. Now for the Golden State of California, with all its famous orange groves, palm trees and magnolia trees. Those who were in San Francisco with us in 1905 could have hardly known it since the terribel earthquake of 1906.
Poor Joe Hampton, or, as we all called him, "English Joe," died here, and was buried by the Frisco Aerie of Eagles, he being a member of the Bridgeport Aerie, No. 420. Tom Lynch, the father of all the boys, and Dick Shanahan, acted as pallbearers. Joe was the hero of many a race in Chantilly, France, and his stories of the great Derby race were worth listening to. Oakland and then Riverside, which has the most beautiful drive in the State. It runs for ten miles, and on either side palm trees and magnolias in full bloom, and orange groves in all their beauty, make this place one of the most charming spots in the West. And then Santa Barbara! We have all heard of the phrase, "See Naples and die," and the same can be said of this Santa Barbara. The clear blue sky,the vast expanse of water; the old Spanish monastery, now used as a swimming pool; the mangificent Salters' hotel, facing the bay; a boulevard, studded on each side with different varieties of palms and ___, and the snow wrapped mountains for a background, make a glorious sight.
Proceeding South, we arrived into Bakersfield, where the famous twenty mile mule team can be seen entering into Death Valley. Here John Foley, assistant superintendent to Tom Lynch, met many of his old time friends, he being one of the famous drivers out of Death Valley. Proceeding South, Old King Sol has no mercy, and the heat proved terrible. Leaving San Bernardino we entered the Needles, as the valley is called. This place is supposed to be the hottest place in the United States. Entering Youma Avin, we wer busy buying Indian souvenirs from the Yuma tribe of Indians here. They claim they are not too well behaved, and some of their old time dances are stopped by the officials here. Passing on, we arrived at Douglass, and many a one tells of how much he won at the games. There are several Bridgeporters living in this vicinity, and we were mighty glad to get acquainted, and have a __, talking of old times.
Then to Rigbee, the boom gold ore town, which was nothing but a few shacks up to a few years ago, and now is a flourishing town. At one of the gambling houses in particular no less than forty-two different kinds of games are played, from fan-fan to the big layout or faro game, having a bank of $___ in gold always in sight. It would be rather unhealthy to make a fuss, because they tell you that everything is on the level, and that goes with a big 44 to help them. Leaving Tuscon we proceeded to Texas. Never gamble about crap or mention cards while you are there because the sheriff needs the money. They caught us once at a friendly game, result - $35.75 a person, and we quit after that, at least for a while. Heading down toward El Paso, on the Rio Grande, we journeyed across to Old Mexico and witnessed the bull fight, which was rather a tame affair. Jnerat is a quaint old town, so very different from the busy city of El Paso. . . .
Leaving Texas we headed for Louisiana, and at last could really say we were in the land of cotton; business good and hotels rotten. New Orleans, the Crescent City, has a charm for all. Wide thoroughfares, and Canal Street, six tracks, and a trolley system second to none. Turning Northward we began to think of Home, Sweet Home, and how we all longed for that famous city of Bridgeport. And sure enough, the boys are just coming in the big top with the new news that the last route is out, and we close in Clarksdale, Miss., and then begin our long ride home, the last of 18,000, miles We have the glad news that our brother and sister Tigers are going to have a grand reception for us, and a ball in Quilty's Hall, Bridgeport, Nov. __, and then we will all join in as one family, telling our experiences and adventures of the past. Mingling with us on that occasion will be Otto Ringling, Col. Cody and all the performers who will be in Bridgeport this winter. Our ride home from the South was without incident. We reached the haven of rest, the winter quarters, at 4 a.m. on the morning of __. We had scarcely started the work of transferring the stock from the cars to the cages in the animal house, when big Judd Carlin was attacked by a bear, who objected to the shift, and had his right arm lacerated, but fortunately the bruin did not use his claws. Carlon is now at the Bridgeport Hospital where he will recover.
A daughter was born to Mrs. Howard Damon on Nov. 9. Mr. and Mrs. Damon are located in their home at the winter quarters of Walter L. Main.
Advertising car No. 2, of Buffalo Bill's Wild West, closed a season of seven months on Nov. 12, at Memphis, Tenn. Every man who closed with this car opened with the show last Spring. The Home, Sweet Home stand, which was designed by Henry Mason, was posted on one of the most prominent billboards in Memphis. Before the boys departed for their various homes, a banquet was tendered to them by V. Cooke, of the car. Harley White gave the history of Jefferson, Iowa; Larry Sullivan gave imitations, Jinny Brett, lately of "Ben Hur," sang a few of his famous songs, and Roy Cady did his old (Joey) clown act, which he did in days of old with the Walter Main Shows. After the banquet the boys departed for their homes, to rest before starting work for the winter. V. Cooke, manager of car No. 2, has returned to New Jersey, to rest for the winter. Harley White went to Jefferson, Iowa, to exchange stories with the farmers. Geo. Battis and Larry Sullivan have returned to New York City, to rejoin the bill posting brigades. Walter Van Dien has returned to Paterson, N.J. Dave Muir returned to St. Louis, and is anxiously awaiting for all to come and see him before you can bill St. Louis. Jack Reardon has got a lecture on bull fights and cock fights, to recite to the natives of his home town, Waterbury, Conn. William Morrison returned to Springfield, Mass. Henry Lasher to Waterville, Mo.; H. Maston to Norfolk, Va., to be a shining light in the photograph business. Wilbert Winn goes to Sharon, Pa. James A. Lyons went to New York City to be a dispenser of various beverages. "Shorty" Turner, the old time Brooklyn and New York agent, has returned to his famous City of Churches. Joe Hyland has gone to New York, to join some band as a trombone player.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's Show. Mr. Wheeler and John Welsh purchased last week at Philadelphia, all of the horses ___ used by the Quaker City Transfer Co. Included in the lot were twenty-four head of heavy dapple grays. This stock will be divided between the Al. F. Wheeler and the Welsh Bros.' Shows. The "New Model" will be greatly enlarged for next season, and the "Newest Great" will again be launched with an entirely new outfit.
Robert Sivada, an acrobat, died at the Crown and ___ Hotel, Bristol, Eng., Oct. 26, from the bursting of a blood vessel, aged sixty-eight years. His name in real life was Robert Brown, and he was born in Bristol, Eng. Mr. Sivada was one of the greatest acrobats the world ever produced. He worked for eighteen years for one master, Hengler's Circus, and was alo with Circus Renz, Germany, and Lord George Sanger's Show for nine years. He did principal leaping over six elephants. Mr. Sivada came over to American for Gus Hill in ___. Considerable property and $___ in money will be divided between his three children . . . Last summer he lived with Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hill at their farm at Smithtown, L. I., N.Y., returning to England last Fall. . . .
New York Clipper, November 28, 1908, pp. 1037, 1039. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Harry E. Miller, a well known clown, closed with the Cole Bros.' Shows at Franklin, Tenn., Nov. 12, having been with the show since April 18.
Notes from Keller Bros.' Colossal Circus. The show will open in Funkstown, Md., for the season of 1909, the latter part of April. The show will be all new, with a 70ft. round top, with a 40ft. middle piece, side show tent 40x60. The contract for building the wagons has been closed. They will be light but strong, so as to get over the roads easy and quickly. So far we have secured forty head of horses, sixteen wagons, six ponies and two donkeys. Keller Iseminger is general manager; Ezra Keller, assistant manager; J. J. Keller, press agent; __ Keller, advance agent, with three assistants; Joe Holsizer, equestrian director; C. E. Dickey, music director; Sam Dock, master of trained stock; D. Wolf, boss hostler, Geo. Minamyre, boss canvasman.
Tote Siegrist and Bob Rigsby are conducting professional headquarters at 46 West Twenty-second Street, New York, where they will be pleased to cater to the comfort of their friends in the profession. Thanksgiving Day will be formal opening day.
The Siegrist and Silbon Troupe have been re-engaged for next season with the Barnum & Bailey Show.
The Aerial Shaws have again signed for next season with the Ringling Bros.' Show.
William Delly writes: "After closing my fifth season as manager of advertising car No. 1, Gollmar Bros.' Circus, I spent a week in Denver, Col., visiting Mrs. Delly and Baby Isabelle, who were with E. J. Carpenter's 'Her First False Step' Co. The aforesaid company colsed at Denver, so we three are again in Leavenworth, Kan., for the winter.
James Melville, equestrian director of the New York Hippodrome, and famous circus rider in his day, fell dead from heart disease in the offices of Wells Hawks, the press representative of the Hippodrome, Monday evening, Nov. 23. His brother George was taking part in the evening's performance that Frank Melville had temporarily given up because of illness. Mr. Melville was the eldest son of James Doanid, and later took the name of Melville. He was born in Sydney, N. S. W., Sept. 16, 1854. A few years later he came to America with his parents. He was recognized as being among the greatest of bareback riders in the annals of the circus, and for years did an equestrian act which was in great demand. His last appearance in a riding act was in the Hippodrome show last season, when with his wife he put on a "high school" act. The large white horse used in that act fell and broke its neck at a performance. This year Mr. Melville has continued as equestrian director and as master of ceremonies.
He began riding in a circus when he was thirteen years old, and was said to be the first to do a somersault from the ground to a galloping horse. He invented and was the first to perform many other acts which now are a part of circus exhibitions. He had been with every important circus of his day, and had played in every country. Mr. Melville was with the Barnum & Bailey Circus when the New York Hippodrome was opened, and he left the circus to become the equestrian director of the new undertaking. He also had charge of the equestrian work at Luna Park, when Thompson & Dundy had the Hippodrome. Frank Melville trained most of the horses seen in the Hippodrome shows. He is survived by his wife, Rose, also a rider, and his two brothers, Alex., a non-professional, and George Donald Melville, well known in the show business.
New York Clipper, December 5, 1908, pp. 1063, 1064. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Major Lillie (Pawnee Bill) now has an interest in Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show, and hereafter will be actively identified with that organization. His own attraction, Pawnee Bill's Wild West Show, will go out of existence, and will be absorbed by the Buffalo Bill Show. Major Lillie will assume the business management of Buffalo Bill's Show, while Col. Cody will remain the big feature and have full charge of the performers. The new arrangement takes effect next season, when the Buffalo Bill Show, which is now in winter quarters at Bridgepot, opens at Madison Square Garden. Barnum & Bailey's Show will open in Chicago, and Ringling Brothers' Circus will open at the Garden.
The John Robinson Circus has reached winter quarters at Terrace Park, O., near Cincinnati. The big show closed at Houston, Miss. and arrive home Nov. 22. Jack warren, the press man, declares the season one of great success. In Virginia all old records were broken. Governor John Robinson came home with the big troupe, and will spend the winter with his bride at his country home.
John Adams, secretary to Antonio V. Pubillones, has booked through the office of Chas. L. Sasse the following attractions for the season to appear with the Circo Pubillones, touring Cuba: Three Frediani Acrobats, on horseback, European; Four Ernesto Sisters, European tight wire act; Five Carl Damman Family, risely act; Seven Keller Troupe, refined trick cyclists . . .
Funeral Services for Frank Melville. About five hundred people, including circus and theatrical people, Elks, Shriners and others, gathered at the Seventy-first Regiment Armory, in East Thirty-fourth Street, New York City, on Nov. 27, to pay a last tribute to the memory of Frank J. Melville. The body lay in state in the big armory. The Hippodrome Orchestra, under Manuel Klein, furnished music. Arthur C. Moreland, an old friend of Mr. Melville, pronounced the eulogy of the Elks, Mr. Moreland is now blind. The memorial services were novel and impresssive. There were the ritualistic services of the Elks, the Shriners, and the Ancient Order of Scottish Rites and Masons. After the services the body was taken back to Mr. Melville's late residence, in West Forty-first Street, and it was then shipped to St. Augustine, Fla. At his old home there the St. Augustine Lodge, F. and A. M., will conduct the ceremonies of burial.
New York Clipper, December 12, 1908, pp. 1085, 1088, 1093. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Dan O'Brien, well known somersault leaper, has signed for season of 1909 with Barnum & Bailey Show.
Geo. S. Cole has returned to his home at Potsdam, N.Y., after closing the season with John Robinson's Ten Big Shows.
The Meers Sisters are breaking in their stock at Hoboken, N.J., ready for next season.
Bert Cole, advertiser and official announcer with Hagenbeck & Wallace Show, hs closed contracts for season of 1909, which will make his ninth season with the above attraction. He is in New York with his wife, stopping at Bixby & Siegrist's Hotel for the winter.
Otto Ringling, at his winter home, the Hotel Stratfield, Bridgeport, Conn., in an interview: "The Barnum & Bailey Show will open next season in Chicago. We will open the Barnum Show in Chicago, where the local staff will report at the beginning of next season, and the Ringling Show will open at Madison Square Garden. The rumor of tearing down the Madison Square building are reserected about this time every year, but there is nothing in it; we have a contract for the opening at the Garden made with the late James A. Bailey, which still is in force for some years yet."
From Galveston, Tex., comes the news that John W. Gates is organizing a circus, which will be one of the biggest shows under the tents, and independent in every respect. The Bostock animal shows and the Rhoda Royal stable of performing horses are included in the deal. Mr. Gates says his association with the New York Hippodrome prompted his embarking in the circus business. Rhoda Royal and others are associated with him and the circus, it is said, will represent nearly $2,000,000.
The German Circus Angelo has been bought by Madame Solange D'Atalide who intends to tour the same on the European continent in 1909 and 1910, and to come to America in the Spring of 1911. Mme. D'Atilade singly drills a group of thirty performing horses, and will shortly perfect an act using fifty menage horses.
James D. De Wolfe, a well known press representative, is chief of the publicity staff for the Keith & Proctor interests in and around New York. Mr. De Wolfe, who has been in advance of Marie ___, is widely known in circus and theatrical circles.
Jeff Callan, well known in circus and theatrical circles, has won success as manager of the Nickel Theatre at Lewiston, Me., which he assumed several months ago.
Harvey Watkins, for many years closely identified with the late James A. Bailey, has scored a decided success in handling the circuit of ticket theatres of the Keith & Proctor enterprises.
Roster and notes from the advance of Cole & Cooper's Enormous Show, the largest wagon show on earth, with sixty-eight wagons and cages. . . . James Robinson, agent, in charge of bill wagon and paper . . .
Notes from the Cole & Cooper Circus, under the management of J. Augustus Jones. We are now playing through the South, and are in our forty-first successful week, enjoying good weather and business. The show will spend Christmas Day at Thomasville, Ga.
Bob Cook is still equestrian director and principal clown with King & Tucker's Big City R. R. Show.
Benjamin Stevens, in his day a famous circus rider, died on Friday, Dec. 4, from old age, at his residence, ___ Clinton Place, Brooklyn, N.Y. He was born at Albany, Feb. 7, 1831, and when he was only eight years old became an apprentice to Henry Rockwell, then a leading circus manager. He won fame as a rider, and in the early '60s was a ring favorite throughout the West. In Columbus, O., in doing a forward somersault on horseback, he fell and broke his right leg. When he got well he went with P. T. Barnum, in his Fourteenth Street musuem, and later was connected with the old Hippodrome in Manhattan. He was a trainer of circus stock for Barnum and other circus people,and was also a chariot racer. After he retired from the circus business, he became an insurance agent. He is survived by one son and one grandson.
H. W. Freed writes: "The partnership which existed between D. W. Pettit and myself was dissolved at the close of the season. The most friendly feeling exists between us. I will put out a small wagon show next year, opening at Niles, Mich., early in May, to be known as the H. W. Freed New Show."
Havana, Nov. 26 . . . The most notable thing of note the past week was the inauguration of the Pubillones Circus, at the National Theatre. Pubillones is considered the Barnum of Cuba, and his reputation has been earned by many years of patient endeavor. Mr. Pubillones' father established the circus business in Cuba so many years ago that the old inhabitants look upon the name as one of the landmarks of Cuba. It is the purpose of Mr. Pubillones to play a two months' engagement in Havana, and then to tour the island. He now has a number of the best performers from leading circuses in the States. In the opening programme, the Sadakais Brothers, Japanese acrobats; Signora Regina, the Olatazo Trio, the Four Ernesto Sisters, the Yamagarts, the Frediani Equestrian Family, the Yamart Brothers, and the Jessie Keller Troupe of trick bicycle ridrs. The latter are old favorites in Havana, and have been warmly welcomed. . . .
1909
New York Clipper, January 2, 1909, pp. 1148, 1156, 1160. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Havana, Dec. 20. . . . Pubillones Circus has moved to its large tent, which has been erected on the Prado, the fashionable driveway of Havana, in a good, central part of the city. A week ago Sr. Pubillones closed at the National Theatre, as he could not use his animals to good advantage there. Ferrari has his lions and leopards here, while Antonio's elephants are a good attraction. The attendance at the circus has improved since it moved to the tent, and, being stationary, good seats have been erected and excellent private boxes. The Nichols Brothers opened last night at Pubillones. Morock in the double automobile somersault act, will open next week, and promises to be a thriller for the Cuban public. The Jessie Keller Troupe of seven trick bicycle riders are still here and are well received, as they are old favorites in Cuba. The Ernesto Sisters, wire performers, have closed, and while here made good, their balancing act on the wire being exceptionally good. The Carl Dammas Family are still here and are well received. The Fredoni Family of four equestrians, carrying two magnificent horses, closed last night, and tomorrow will sail for Coruna, Spain, whence they will go to Berlin. It is likely that Mr. Pubillones will send a circus on tour through the island in a few weeks, as good crops are the rule over the agricultural sections, in sugar, tobacco and fruits, and the country people will have plenty of money. . . .
From Cole Bros.' winter quarters. The three score of men who are at present employed around the winter quarters of the Cole Bros.' Shows, enjoyed a sumptuous Christmas dinner Friday, Dec. 25. There was turkey galore and all that goes with the holiday bird, and after it had been put wher it would do the most good, there were cigars and stories of the season just passed. Superintendent Goodell, acting for manager M. J. Downs, not only provided a good dinner, but saw that each one of the workingmen received a pair of warm felt boots, several pairs of stockings, a pair of heavy gloves and a winter cap. It was a "sure enough" reminder that the good old "Santa Claus" was not overlooking any of the employees of this show.
With the usual speed and system that has always characterized this aggregation, work is progressing rapidly in all the departments. As usual, only skilled mechanics are employed, thus not only assuring a better class of work, but a work that is uninterrupted, as is not always the case where ordinary labor is used. The wagon shop, blacksmith shop and paint shop are all under full swing, and the first week of the year will find the car shops as busy as any of the others. The ring barn is idle at present except when the animal trainers get to work. It will not be for some weeks that the riders will begin working out, although there are several of them on the ground even at this early date. The shows have grown to such proportions since manager M. J. Downs assumed control, that they have outgrown the present quarters, and it has been found necessary to enlarge them. This is being done now, and the work is being pushed forward with all practical speed. Before the shows came in at the close of last season, additional trackage was laid and the office room in the quarters proper was surrendered to the trapping department. This necessitated a new office being included in the plans for the enlargement, and until the improvements are completed, which will not be until the show comes back at the close of the coming season, the general offices will be in Erie, Pa., which is about eight miles from the winter quarters, but accessible by trolley or two steam railroads.
There will be little or no change in the executive staff, either in the advance or back with the show during the coming season. Manager M. J. Downs, assisted by his son, James Downs, will look after the back and the show's organization, while general agent Ed. C. Knupp will have charge of the advance and its organization. It is very seldom that a change is found necessary in the executive staff of this show. This season coming will find this aggregation larger and more meritorious than ever before. In fact, manager Downs is always studying to improve, and it needs only a glance backward for a few years to see how beautifully apparent this is. From an ordinary show he has made it one that is now classed with the very best touring the country, and this assertion is not made in any idle boasting manner, for it has been seen in opposition with the largest as well as the most exaggeratedly advertised, and on not one occasion has it been in the least damaged by camparison. In sections where it has repeated it has never failed to get more money the second time than it did the time previous. This is the very best evidence of a show's standing with the lovers of amusement. The coming season will find it going out, as it always has, with every stitch of canvas new, and every piece of wardrobe in use for the first time. Since the shows have been in the winter quarters the menagerie has been considerably enlarged by births, and manager Downs has placed orders for a number of rare specimens that are expected to arrive just as soon as the weather will permit shipment. Superintendent James Downs is away now in the West purchasing a number of draught horses, and it is expected to increase the already large stable by about fifty additional head. The show train will be enlarged by adding three flats, two stocks and one coach for next season. The present No. 2 advance car will be laid aside, and a new and more modern one put on it its place.
The Sun Brothers' Greater Shows finished the season of 1908 at Chauncey, Ga., Monday, Dec. 21. The closing performance attracted a large crowd, and the day was all that could be desired as to weather conditions. Only one performance was given, and after the afternoon show was concluded and the train all loaded, the show pulled into Macon, arriving there about 4 a.m., next day. The show was at once taken to Central City Park, where the show maintains beautiful winter quarters. A force of men preceded the show a week in advance, and had everything in readiness for the reception of the show. This place is without any doubt or question, the finest place in this country for the wintering of a circus. The buildings have all been remodeled during the past summer, also having received an entire new coat of paint, and are now as fine as they can possibly be made. All of the performers, musicians and most of the attaches were paid off a day in advance, at Chauncey, on Sunday, 20. This enabled a majority of them to reach their homes in good season to enjoy the holiday season. Some forty men besides the bosses and managerial staff are now at Macon, and directly after Christmas the work will commence in earnest, and the show will receive a general overhauling with the additon of numerous new wagons and cars. The tents, as usual, will be all new, and many new equestrian and wild animal acts will be prepared during the lay-off.
The following people were with the show up to the closing date: Performers - Francis J. Boyle and company (four people), the Liniger Trio, William Connors, Fred Kenno, the Atlas Troupe (five people), James Irwin, Elmer Lazone, Joe McAllister, Henry Hardell, Albert Segura, Clo Wenzell, Josephine Brown, Eileen Sun, Sisters Ortana, and William O'Dale, equestrian director. Concert people - the Great Boyd, Miss Wenzell, Boyle and Kenno, Cole and Bailey, Joe McAllister, and Herr Schmitt's trained lions. Annex and side show - English Daplyn, magician; Mme. Gillispie, Mystic Maravel; Prof. D. Gillispie's Troupe of Baboons, with human prototypes; Misses Anderson and Millette, musical act; Miss Beatrice Swan, bag puncher; Prof. Magee's Punch and marionettes, and Prof. Henri Boeker's Orchestra. Big show musicians - John Shelley, Howard Wartluft, J. J. Blank, J. W. Grattan, Thos Finley, W. R. Hollenberger, Vito Santolli, H. R. Kinnicutt, Albert Segura, ?. C. Longnecker, Dave Thomas, Wm. Johnson, and Chas. Gerlach, director. Bosses - Dick Richards, boss canvasman; James C. Cherry, master mechanic; William Randolph, forage agent; Charles Bitting, boss hostler; George Lawrence, trainmaster; John Reynolds, side show boss canvasman; Thomas Farley, boss property man; Frank McCormick, manager culinary department; Wm. Sydall, charge ring stock; Forest Berman, twenty-four hour man; Dick Bassett, boss animal man; Wiley Smith, chief chef; Jack Benson, stake and chain man; John Vallender, night watchman; Wallace Sharpleterry and William Vanderslice, car porters; Steve Vandiveer, "Red" Johnson and Thos. McKinney, principal eight horse drivers, and John Roberst, boss poler.
The show visited the following States during the past summer: Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, Indiana, Ohio, Maryland and Florida. The show made 10,360 miles during this time. Some bad weather was experienced during the early Spring, but the rest of the season nothing but fine clear weather was accorded the show, and really was the most pleasant season as to weather that the show ever had. During the last fourteen weeks out not a particle of rain was encountered.
The executive staff included the following: George and Pete Sun, directors; George Sun, active manager; Pete Sun, general agent; C. S. Clarke, contracting agent; Clinton Newton, official representative; J. Springer, advance car manager; Ted Galbraith, special agent; D. H. Gillispie, annex and privilege manager; Charles Gerlach, bandmaster, and William O'Dale, equestrian manager. The next season will open at Macon during the latter part of next March. The 1908 season of the Sun Show will pass down in history as being a successful one, and also one of the most pleasant ever enjoyed by a body of tented troupers.
The Hans Wagner & Brothers' Circus and Congress of Athletes is a corporation which has been organized under laws of the State of New Jersey, under the corporate name of Wagner Brothers' Circus, for the purpose of promoting and operating a motor wagon circus or amusement enterprise, with an authorized capitalization of $75,000. The purpose of equipping this circus with motor wagons complete for transportation, instead of using ordinary circus wagons and horses, is on account of the initial cost of the motor wagons being about on a par with the cost of wagons, horses, harness, etc., and the cost of maintaining and operating the motor wagons being about 33 1/3 per cent cheaper than horses. It also offers the novelty of a circus parade composed entirely of motor wagons. The basis of the organization of this company is the advertising power of Hans Wagner's name, and backing this by a first class, up-to-date circus. The intention is to open the season of 1909 with the initial performance in Carnegie, Pa., some time during the first week in May, or as soon thereafter as practicable.
Notes from Buckskin Ben's Wild West. After a good season, condsidering everything, Buckskin Ben closed his Wild West Shows at Augusta, Ga., Dec. 12, and with his family, left for his home at Cambridge City, Ind., for the winter. Buckskin Ben will add a number of new features for next season, and the show will be greatly enlarged, and it will be , using Ben's expression, "the biggest little show in the country." Geo. Litt, general manager, will accompany the party as far as Dayton, O., where, after spending the holidays with his family, he will commence the bookings at the parks for the coming season. Quite a number of important contracts with with prominent parks have already been closed, and the season promises very good. Frank S. Reed, assistant manager, has taken charge of the new electric theatre, lately opened in Orangeburg, S.C., where he will remain until the Spring season opens, which is contracted for with Buckskin Ben's Wild West.
Members of the J. H. Boyer Shows will remember with pleasure Christmas of 1908. First of the pleasant things of the day was the opening of a Christmas box from J. H. Boyer, East St. Louis, in which was found presents for every member of the company. Not one was forgotten. Presents were exchanged by the different members, and every one seemed to be at "Home, Sweet, Home." Last, but not least, was our turkey spread, at which our chef, Frank Miller, won popularity with the entire company. We were pleased also to entertain Lou Griswald, of the Griswald Shows, and Fatty Fisher, en route to Tampa, Fla., to attend the exposition there. We were greeted with good business at night, as has been the case all through Florida.
Chas. H. Tinney, for the past five years bandmaster of Cole Bros.' World Toured Shows, was operated on for hernia at this home in Memphis, Mo., Dec. 7, recovering nicely from the operation. He expects to leave Jan. 1 for Hot Springs, Ark.
Bob Cook is still making good doing advertising, clown and equestrian director with King & Tucker's Big City R. R. Shows, touring Georgia.
A letter from St. Louis states that Lilly Minerva, a member of the Rhoda Royal Circus Co., while performing there on Dec. 16, was seriously injured when she fell while attempting an iron-jaw act high in the air.
John E. Ogden will have charge of the museum and vaudeville annex for next season with the Cole Bros.' Shows. He will be at the Hotel Marlborough, New York, until Jan. 6.
Prof. T. Stirk has sold his estated in East Boston, and has purchased another training academy in Cincinnati, where he will install the latest apparatus for the practice of any act. He will also fit up a machine ship, where expert mechanics will be prepared to develop any ideas submitted in model or drawings, Mr. Stirk will be located at the Hotel Jefferson, Cincinnati, after Jan. 15.
E. Arlington writes: "The 101 Ranch is doing a big busines in Mexico City. We played to twenty-two thousand people today in big bull ring. We are now in our thirty-seventh week, and I will remain an equal partner with the Miller Bros., contracts having been renewed for 1909-1910.
Molly Hillman, who between 1830 and 1880 appeared in this country and Europe as one of the foremost circus performers, died Dec. 21 in the poorhouse at Greenfield, Pa. She was ninety-two years old. In her day she was one of the most famous equestriennes in the ring, and was for years a star in both the Barnum and the Forepaugh circuses. She was married four times, and each husband met a violent death. She was the daughter of William Cnok, a blacksmith of Newark, N.J., and her mother was a great-granddaughter of a chief of the Oneida tribe of Indians. Mrs. Hillman played every season for fifty years.
It is reported that Alma Odell, professionally known as Mlle. Alma and under the name of "The Human Fly," one of the most noted wire walkers and aerial performers in her line, died in Chicago, Ill., on Dec. 19, aged forty years. Mlle. Alma was born in Ingersol, Can., and started in the show business when only fifteen years old, with the G. L. Fox Troupe, at the Olympic Theatre, New York. During her career she worked with all the great circuses - Barnum's, Forepaugh's, Sells Brothers', John Robinson, etc. - and played all the leading vaudeville theatres. She was married Nov. 6, 1887, to W. T. Odell, a theatrical manager, who survives her.
New York Clipper, January 9, 1909, p. 1182. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Cole Brothers' Shows are getting in shape for the coming season. The heads of the various departments are: Prof. Jos. Barrlos, equestrian director; J. Ogden, manager annex; Wm. Englert, superintendent canvas; Jno. Kennedy, superintendent stock; Bert Carroll, superintendent properties; Frank Wallace, superintendent side show; Albert Schaildt, superintendent lights; Chas. Herman, master of transportation; Wm. Forbes, assistant sleeping car; Alfred Tobin, manager candy stands; Harry Craig, manager commissary.
Chas. Shepard, formerly an advance agent, has just completed what is known as a coin controlling delivery machine (patent pending). These machines can be used to great advantage for circus programmes (book form), etc. This will, it is planned, do away with the old way of disposing of programmes, and even before the show is on the lot or in town, and by the insertion of a nickel in the slot, the machine delivers to the operator a complete programme of the big show and annex, together with advertisements of local merchants. The machines are now installed in Mr. Shepard's home town, Lebanon, N.H., being used for a business directory and guide. It is said they contain three times the advertising of the local newspaper.
Safe of 101 Ranch Robbed. A wire from Dallas, Tex., on Jan. _, stated that the Dallas police department had just been notified that the safe of the 101 Ranch Show was dynamited night of Jan. 2 on the journey between San Antonio and Fort Worth, and robbed of $10,000. One of the robbers was captured, but the one with the money escaped, the dispatch said.
The veteran circus agent and all around good fellow, known to almost everybody in the amusement world as "Mike" Coyle, of Weedsport, N.Y., officially announces his practical retirement from the circus field, and will in the future take life as easy as possible in the management and dispensation of the mineral waters at the Arrow Head Springs, of Weedsport, N.Y., the medicinal properties of which completely cured him of a severe stomach trouble that necessitated his retirement from the road early last season. Mr. Coyle's career in the amusement world has been rather active and interesting. In the Spring of 1864 he first joined the James Melville & Co.'s Circus, as treasurer, at St. Louis, Mo.; in 1865 the same organization went out under the management of Stone, Rosston & Murray, starting from Philadelphia, Pa., with Mr. Coyle in the same capacity, where he remained until the Spring of 1867, at which time he purchased an interest in the organization, and remained with it up to the close of the season of 1877. At the close of this engagement he joined the Great London Shows, with Messrs. Parks, Dockrill, Henry Barnum and Homer Davis as owners and managers, Mr. Coyle acting in the position of treasurer and assistant manaager. In 1880 he joined the Adam Forepaugh Show, and remained with that organization as car manager and advertiser until the death of Mr. Forepaugh. He then transferred his services to James A. Bailey, and has bee connected with the Barnum & Bailey and Buffalo Bill Shows ever since that period, acting in the capacities of railroad contractor and assistant manager of those shows in Europe and America. At various intervals during these years he held positions of trust with various business enterprises, and has always been noted for his manly qualities and all around usefulness. In the Winter of 1870 he was connected with the management of the tour of the then famous pugilists, John Heenan and James Mace, and in all probability has enjoyed the acquaintance of as large a circle of friends in all walks of the amusement profession as any living man. In making his retirement from the road, he concluded to purchase the farm on which the famous Arrow Head Mineral Springs are located, in the village of Weedsport, N.Y., and entered into co-partnership with C. S. Caywood, of that village, and together these gentlemen are improving the spring-houses and making preparations to place the water upon the market throughout the country.
Joe Deltorelli writes from Costa Rica, Central America: "We are down here with our circus, and are doing well. We leave for Panama on Jan. 4. Roster includes: Five Delphins, Ward Bros., Three Deltorellis, Fred Sterling English clown; the Bartines, Koko, midget clown; Robinson Bros., Senorita June, juggler and balancer; Pachero Family (6), acrobats . . . and Senorita Franks, contortionist.
Billy Millikin, one of the clowns with the John Robinson Circus, has just returned to Akron, O.
New York Clipper, January 16, 1909, p. 1205. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Chanels lease Sun Brothers' Show. Al. Chanel and his son, Edward, of Findlay, O., have closed negotiations for the lease of Sun Brothers' Circus, now in its winter quarters at Macon, Ga. Both have had experiences in amusement enterprises, and they will start in the early Spring to take the circus on the road. It uses sixteen cars, and will travel in the South and West. Joe Thompson, of Findlay, will be the "twenty-four hour man," and Lew Whitmore will be in charge of the advance guard. Edward Chanel was treasurer of Burt's Theatre, Toledo, for several years, and auditor of the Cedar Point Amuseument Co., Sandusky, O.
John Robinsoon buys Robinson Circus. A statement which comes from Cincinnati offers the intelligence that through the sale of the Robinson Circus, by Governor Robinson to his son, John G. Robinson, the break caused by the Governor's marriage with his nurse has been closed, and litigation has ceased. John G. Robinson paid his father $100,000 for the show.
Chas. A. Koster, Dick Baldwin, Harry Parquar, and Joe Chores, all well known circus and theatrical agents, were in Kansas City, Mo., last week. Mr. Koster will next season be connected with the opposition forces of one of the leading circuses.
Notes from Lombard's Imperial Shows. We closed our tenting season Sept. 25, and everything is nicely stored away in our snug winter quarters at West Bethel, Me. We shall open on or about May 1, 1909, with an entire new outfit. Will add four ponies and ten dogs and feature our parade. Will carry eighteen people and play the inland towns through Maine and New Brunswick. Will use a 70ft. round top with a 40ft. middle piece. This will be one of the neatest little twenty-five cent shows on the road, bar none.
Chas. "Kid" Koster, for the past four seasons special opposition agent for the Ringling Bros., Buffalo Bill and Forepaugh Shows, is at present in advance of the Metropolitan Opera Co., but will close his engagement at Kansas City, Mo. Mr. Koster will leave for Hot Springs, Ark., for a long rest, and will next season be on the Hagenbeck & Wallace advance staff.
Park B. Prentiss will again lead the band with the Great Sells-Floto Circus for his fourth season with the show. He is at present with "Zeke, the Country Boy," Co.
The Riva Larsen Troupe have signed with the Empire Indoor Circus for fourteen weeks, commencing in Memphis, Tenn.
Bert Davis and wife will go with the Buffalo Bill's and Pawnee Bill's Wild West and Far East next season.
New York Clipper, January 23, 1909, pp. 1228, 1229, 1232. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Miller Brothers' home burned. A dispatch from Wichita, Kan., under date of Jan. __, stated that fire destroyed the home of the Miller brothers, at the 101 Ranch . . . night of 12. The three story mansion known as the "White House," contained many valuable heirlooms. The occupants escaped.
Sun Brothers deny sale. W. Crooks, Clipper correspondent, at Toledo, O., writes: "Appearing in last week's issue of this paper, we gave an account of the lease of Sun Bros.' Circus to Al. Chanel and son, Edward, of Findlay, O. From a letter received from Sun Bros., it is most emphatically denied, and it further states that the show has never been for sale or lease."
"Jack" Robinson in peaceful control. All Cincinnati rejoiced to hear that the white dove of peace had been caught and caged in the Robinson family. The misunderstanding with Governor John F. Robinson and his son, John Robinson, the third, apart during the past tented season has been strightened out. The younger Robinson (John G.) has acquired the John Robinson Show by purchase from his father the control of this great aggregation. The Governor retains a big life interest in the property that will net him at least $___. There is a John Robinson, a grandson . . . he will fall heir to the circus property, which was founded away back in ___. The show is wintering at Terrace Park, Cincinnati, and will begin its annual tour as usual late in April or early in May. . . .
Tom Barry, at one time a famous circus clown, died suddenly in Albany, N.Y>, Jan. 16. Mr. Barry was born at Manchester, Eng., in 1839, and made his professional debut with Pablo Fanque, at Free Trade Hall, Manchester, in 1847, in a pony race. He was then apprenticed to Ned Briarly (known as Cobbler Ned), until he was seventeen years of age, under whose tutelage he began clowing. He left Briarly and joined the Bros. Hays, but soon re-joined Pablo's. In 1858 he joined Jack Swallow, and after that Jim Bourne, with whom he went to Ireland. He left Bourne, at Limerick, and was alternately with Bell's, Pablo's, Hengler's and Newcome's Circuses. He then joined Tom Price and toured Spain and Portugal, leaving Price in Spain and going to Paris, Fr., with David Richards, on a visit. There he met Frank Pastor and others. He engaged with Deshon's Cirque Napoleon. Mr. Richards doing the first hurdle race ever done in a circus there, and Mr. Barry doing leaping, going over nine horses, without bed or running-borad. He then went to Liverpool, Eng., and joined, respectively, Bell's, Hengler's and Sanger's. In 1865 he took out his own show, but came in after six months' tour, and joined John Henderson at Plymouth. After leaving Henderson's he went back to Hengler's, but soon started out again with his own show, which he afterwards sold to Bob Davies, and went to Newcome's, leaving shortly and rejoining Hengler's. In 1870 Mr. Barry came to America and joined Lent's American Circus, on Fourteenth Street, New York City, in March. He joined Dr. James L. Thayer's Circus for the regular tenting season of 1870. He remained with Thayer's until August, when he joined Stone & Murray's in this city. In 1871 he went back to England and joined Hengler's for the season, but returned to this country again the following Spring and joined John Murray's, with which he remained until 1877. In 1878 he was with Forepaugh's,and 1870 with Coup's. During the winter he went home to England and joined Tom Batty's. In 1880 he returned to this country, and again joined Coup's. In 1881, in company with H. Jacobs, he took the bicycles to Coney Island and ran a side show. He joined Murray's late in the season, and played Long Island towns. He went South during the winter with W. C. Coup's Hippodrome. In 1882 he joined Forepaugh's, and in 1883 took the "Sea on Land" exhibit to Coney Island with C. Sylvan. That winter he took out an Indian Medicine Show for Healy & Bigelow. He returned to his first love in 1885, and joined Van Amburgh's Circus for the summer. He went to England during the winter, but on returning to this country in the Spring, he joined Frank A. Robbins' Circus. In the Fall he bought an interest in an "Uncle Tom's Cabin" Co., with Geo. Peck,and later joined Geo. O. Starr, of the Barnum-Bailey forces,and took out the Starr Opera Co. Then he managed Lewis ___'s Pavilion at Dutchtown, N.Y., and later took out "Putnam, the Iron Son of '76." He then assumed the management of the Grand Street Museum, New York City. Mr. Barry was one of the most successful museum and circus managers of his day. During recent years he was in burlesque, and for a time he was proprietor of the Gaiety Theatre, Albany, N.Y. The body was cremated at the Earl Crematory, Troy, N.Y.
W. Mardell, a veteran circus man, died Dec. 28, in Memphis, Tenn. He had been with Barnum and other big showmen for forty years.
New York Clipper, January 30, 1909, p. 1243. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
P. Richards' letter, Berlin, Germany, Jan. 7. . . . At the Circus Busch I saw among the December attractions an English act who had been quite a hit in New York some years ago, in the glorious days of Koster & Bial's - John Higgins, the champion jumper, who looks none the worse for the many jumps he has made since. Quite a lot of friendly faces are greeting us at Circus Schumann, where Macarte's baboon are holding their nightly receptions. Mr. and Mrs. Macarte are both enjoying their German environments, and are most faithful "Clipper callers." The same may be said of the Duttons, whose cat, too well remembered in America to require any further praise, has also been a decided hit over here, and is it only due to their binding engagement with the Ringling Bros.' Circus that their stay on the continent has not been indefinitely prolonged.
New York Clipper, February 6, 1909, p. 1274. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Rhoda Royal Indoor Circus. This show opened for a week at the Auditorium, in St. Paul, Jan. 25, under the auspices of Osman Temple, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. The weather was ideal for the occasion, and the huge building, which is the handsomest in the Northwest, was packed to capacity. Every box was occupied and all the seats were filled. The show made a tremendous hit, and was the talk of the town. . . . The Shriners, under whose auspices the big show is being given, have sold already over $6,000 worth of reserved seats for the week, and from the present indications the show will do between eighteen and twenty thousand dollars during its St. Paul engagement. There are one hundred horses with the show, thirty big feature acts, of which Dare Devil Ruel, who loops the loop without a loop, is the spectacular feature. Every act on the programme made an instantaneous hit. A better circus performance, indoors or out, was never seen in this city. The show, in its entirety, goes from here direct to Kansas City, where it opens Feb. 8, for a week, in Convention Hall, under the auspices of the Kansas City Shriners.
Al. F. Wheeler notes. Winter quarters, Oxford, Pa., is the scene of much activity at the present time, where the work of putting the "New Model" in shape for its sixth annual tour is now under way. Several new cages, a new ticket wagon and four new baggage wagons will be added to the rolling stock, while the menagerie has just been augmented by the arrival of a carload of animals purchased from the Washburn Show. Among this lot are three fine Siberian camels. A twelve cage menagerie will be carried next season, in addition to the lead stock and hay-eating animals. The arenic performances will be by far the best ever offered with the "New Model," and our opening specatcle, "The Queen of Nations" for which new wardrobe is now being make, will prove a fitting prelude to America's best one ring circus. F. J. Frink, who will again be general agent, has succeeded in securing a corps of able lieutenants, and will undoubtedly have the strongest advance force ever seen with a wagon show. Four wagons will be used ahead, and every sheet of paper will be of special design. The season will open at Oxford, Pa., early in April.
Joe Cole was acquitted on the charge of shooting, with intent to wound, at his trial in Cleveland, last week, after the jury had deliberated but forty minutes. Joe went back to Geneva and immediately went to his work and his horses at the winter quarters of Walter L. Main. On Thanksgiving Eve last he was arrested in Cleveland, after being charged with "shooting up" a saloon and wounding the keeper, Charles Freund. The facts were that he was set upon by some barroom loafers in the saloon of Freund, on St. Clair Avenue, Cleveland, and used his gun only in defense of his own life. Mr. Main took steps in behalf of Cole, who has been one of his faithful workers for the past four years, and the successful outcome of the trial is due almost entirely to the untiring labor of the circus owner for the youth.
La Mont Bros.' Show. Winter quarters, near Salem, Ill., are the scene of much activity. The show will be overhauled from bale ring to stakes. Everything will be repainted, and we will go out next season much stronger than last year. We will have twenty wagons and sixty-five head of stock. Christmas was a general holiday at winter quarters, and a big turkey dinner was served for the employees. The dining room was tastefully decorated for the occasion, and after dinner the boys sat around telling of funny happenings the past season. The management's intention is to make this the finest and best overland show in the business for next season. Mr. La Mont has succeeded in purchasing a pair of Arabian mules, snow white, with black spots.
Spokane Traction Co. of Spokane, Wash., of which Clyde Graves is general manager, has plans to secure all of the circuses next summer on grounds tributary to its line, and special inducements in the way of conveniences will be offered circus managements to locate at that point. The plan is to make a tract in the vicinity of Recreation Park a permanent circus plot, where circuses and spectacular shows will hold forth. The company has placed orders for additional equipment.
Wm. H. Delby, who is spending the winter in Leavenworth, Kan., is re-engaged for next season to manage advance car No. 1 for Gollmar Bros.' Circus, this making his sixth season with the show in that capacity.
J. C. Warren, formerly with Leon Washburn, will have a wagon show of his own next summer, touring the lower part of Canada.
James R. Adams,of the Hippodrome clown force, will round out fifty years of service in the sawdust ring in February. His associates in the Hippodrome are planning a celebration.
A. W. ("Sandy") Copeland, formerly of Alvo and Copeland, and Francese Silver, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bert Silver, of the Silver Family Circus, were married at the house of the bride's parents, Crystal, Mich., on Jan. 20. Mr. and Mrs. Copeland will live at Cadillac, Mich. Both have signed with the Silver Show for the coming season.
The Maginleys (Eddie and Lotta), aerialists, are engaged for the coming season with Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows.
Peter Alvin, society gymnast, has signed for the coming season with Cole Brothers, to do his flying ring and trapeze act.
Oscar Lowande sailed Monday, Jan. 25, for Havana, Cuba, to play Pubillones Circus.
Col. Adam Gillespie is re-engaged for next season as assistant manager with Al. F. Wheeler's Shows, his fifth consecutive season in this capacity with the "New Model."
Coulter & Coulter, successors to Coulter & Clark, are busy at their winter quarters at Albany, Mo., preparing to put out their dog and pony shows, bigger and better than ever. Being backed by ample capital, they will have, they inform us, the largest dogs and pony attraction on the road next season. In addition to their trained animals, they will have a troupe of aerialists, acrobats, wire walkers, etc. Blacksmiths, wagon workers, painters and decorators are busy every day. Manager W. H. Coulter is giving the work his personal attention. He is being ably assisted by that veteran circus man, Dr. D. A. Hundley. The animal trainers will commence work next week. This show will soon cause some of the big ones to sit up and take notice.
Notes from the Norris & Moore Shows. We are in our new winter quarters in North St. Louis, Mo., and Sam Bennett, formerly of the Barnum & Bailey Show, has charge of the ring barn. He is busy breaking stock for our opening here in April. Jim Babcock, boss canvas man, has arrived, also Johnny McMasters, boss hostler.
New York Clipper, February 20, 1909, pp. 20, 28F. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Robinson Shows. The legal proof of the end of all Robinson litigation was filed in Cincinnati when Governor John F. Robinson gave a bill of sale to John G. Robinson for $1, and other considerations, conveying all the the circus property known as John Robinson's Ten Big Shows.
Robbins Show news. The twenty-ninth annual tour of the Frank A. Robbins Shows . . . Special attention will be given to aviary, aquarium and museum departments. The three last named will be shown in a separate tent from the menagerie, but no extra charge will be made. The circus will be given in four centre pole tents, and two rings and a stage will be used. The menagerie tent will also be a four centre pole one. The menagerie has been augmented by the purchases of a pair of forest bred Barbary lions, a huge Royal Bengal tiger, three African leopards, a herd of performing elephants and a large camel and dromedary. The aviary, aquarium and museum will also occupy a four centre pole tent. In the aquarium department, in addition to the sea lions, seals, and other sea animals, will be exhibited a novel aquaric act by a female, and a submarine diving exhibit exhibit without a parallel. The feature of the museum is the largest and most complete collection of burglars tools ever exhibited, as well as the curios, hundreds in number.
At the winter quarters there is being built a large telescope cage that will be filled with all kinds of beautiful colored birds. This will be a pronounced feature, as well as a cage of cassawary, a pair of emus, an ostrich and a pair of pheasants. The water fowl will be shown in a fountain in the centre of the tent, and a lecturer will have charge of this department. The aviary, aquarium and museum proved drawing cards at the American Institute, New York City, where Frank A. Robbins Shows played a long engagement. The American Institute occupied the entire block bounded by Second and Third Avenues, Sixty-third and Sixty-fourth Streets, and it was none too large for the combined attractions of the show. The circus will be kept up to the standard that has made the Frank A. Robbins Show famous for more than a quarter of a century.
Norris & Rowe notes. The legal trouble in which the Greater Norris & Rowe Circus was entangled has been amicably settled. H. S. Rowe acquiring the entire property. The work of repainting and rebuilding the show for the coming tented season is being pushed rapidly. The cars have been shipped to the general repair shops of the Southern Pacific Railway Co., at Sacramento, where they will be put in first class condition. Two shifts of fifty men are working night and day doing the wood work, painting and blacksmithing on the dens and wagons. R. H. Dockrill, the equestrian director, with a number of assistants, is working on the menagerie and other stock, with splendid results.
Cy Norris, the retiring member of the firm, will, it is said, organize a two car dog and pony show, a put it on the road during the coming summer, under the title of "Cozad's Dog and Pony Paradox."
Manager Rowe is rapidly framing his programme, executive and other forces, and promises to introduce the best entertainment every given under the name of Norris and Rowe. In a couple of weeks the roster of next season's staff of the "Pride of the West" will be given to the public, and it will contain names of men and women famous in the tented world.
___ Southern & Co., programme publishers, controlling the programme privileges with nine prominent circuses, have moved their executive offices from Cincinnati, O., to the Knickerbocker Theatre Building, New York City. The firm will still retain their office in Cincinnati as a branch and shipping point. They have over forty men in their employ, and have been in the circus programme publishing business for three years, having started in 1906 with one show, the Hagenbeck-Wallace.
The Aerial Shaws, aerilists, have signed for next season with Ringling Bros.' World's Greatest Shows, to open at Madison Square Garden, New York, Friday, March __. They had to refuse several offers for Europe.
Notes from Pubillones & Ferrari. In spite of the financial crisis from which the island of Cuba has not yet thoroughly recovered, this promises to be a banner year for Messrs. Pubillones & Ferrari, who are now touring the island with two first class, up-to-date circus companies. Never has the public been so enthusiastic in its reception of the performers and the performers are pleased with their welcome and the good will of the people. In some measure this is due to the splendid aggregation of stars secured by Mr. Pubillones, with the able assistance of his secretary, John Ferrandi Adams, through the agency of ___ in New York, and the fact that everyone is looking forward to a peaceful and prosperous year. John Ferrandi Adams is now director for the Pubillones & Ferrari Shows, but continues doing his inimitable characteristic turns with which he delights the Cuban audiences and numerous friends. Messrs Pubillones & Ferrari have been so encouraged by the present outlook that they have decided to tour four companies, and establish a permanent circus in Havana during the presidential festivities and winter carnival. This will be the largest and most up-to-date attraction ever presented to the Cuban public, and the immense four pole canvas will occupy the entire block behind the ___ Hotel, adjoining Central Park, in the very heart of the beautiful city of Havana, and will no doubt prove a veritable gold mine for its fortunate proprietors. Mr. Pubillones will secure many new and attractive features, with the assistance of Mr. Adams, and his name will be written in Cuba's history as one of the greatest entertainers of his age.
Welsh Bros. dispose of privileges. ___ Manchester and Geo. Irving have secured all the privileges with Welsh Bros.' Famous Shows for next season. Mr. Manchester will also introduce his highly trained troupe of ponies in the big show, while Mr. Kirving will look after the annex. News from the show state that everything connected with the show will be new this year, and the performances of a high order in all departments. It is understood that no parade will be given, but there will be something doing on the show lot all day to hold and amuse the people.
B. E. Wallace, owner of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus, announces his opening date as May 1, at Peru, Ind. The injunction proceedings instituted by Carl Hagenbeck, of Hamburg, Germany, restraining B. E. Wallace from using the Hagenbeck name, has been compromised, and the suit dismissed from court.
From Louden & Tuttle's winter quarters. Edw. Warren, having purchased one-half interest in the Louden & Tuttle Olympic Show, it will hereafter be known as the Louden & Warren Combined Shows. Mr. Warren has had considerable experience in the show business, and will be a valuable acquisition to the staff of the company. The show is being enlarged to twelve wagons, all of which are nearly completed, also a new __ft. top, with 30ft. middle piece, and when opened early in May will be one of the finest equipped shows on the road.
Bob Love, the well known manager of Harmston's Circus, is reported to have died in Singapore, aged fifty-nine. He first joined Harmston's Circus as agent, later on was made manager, and when Harmston died, he married Madame Harmston. He was last in Australia with Harmston's Circus, in 1897-__, and was liked by all the profession, as he was known in the Far East as a man always considerate of his performers.
Norris & Rowe's Circus opens it regular season at Santa Cruz, Cal., March 1.
The Sells-Floto Circus will open for the tenting season at Denver, Col., March 29.
Jas. A. Morrow, for the past twenty years connected with the leading circuses of the United States, and at present manager of A. G. Barnes' Wild Animal Circus, that is wintering at Portland, Ore., has just returned from a trip up the coast, and has booked some very valuable time for his attractions, including six weeks under the auspices of the Elks, to present a society and Elks' circus. The outfit this season will carry eight cars, which, the manager states, is large enough to put on a cracker jack show and play good time.
Geo. S. Cole, who has been with John Robinson's Show the last twelve years, will the coming tented season handle the advertising banners with Miller Bros.' 101 Ranch Wild West.
Bert Cole, special representative and announcer of the Hagenbeck & Wallace Shows, was a Clipper caller Feb. __. He will be with the same show this year for his ninth season. Wm. N. Merrick will again be the mailman.
Notes from Carlin Bros.' New Modern Shows. Our spacious winter quarters at ___, Pa., are ideal and the scene of much activity these days. The work of getting out show in first class shape for the season of 1909 [sic?] is well in hand, and long before the bluebirds whistle we will be ready for the road. The new band chariot, new ticket wagon and new cages, ordered last Fall, have all been delivered and placed in quarters. The same are works of art, being highly carved and finished in a color scheme of red, white, salmon pink, silver and gold. With those new wagons and cages, and all others thoroughly overhauled and painted, our ___ stock will be second to none. All new canvas is promised for delivery by the middle of March. The entry and parade wardrobe is in the hands of very capable costumers, the designs being all new and original. It is the intention of the owners to make this one of the best one ring shows on the road, no expense is being spared to make the entire outfit stand out prominently in every department. We have in preparation several novel displays for both the big show and parade that will make the natives sit up and take notice. General manager F. M. Carlin is busy taking trips through the country, buying new stock and looking up novelties. Secretary and treasurer R. F. Carlin is dividing his time daily looking after matters at winter quarters and at the show's Philadelphia office.
Notes from Howard Damon Shows. We will leave winter quarters at Geneva, O., but we are undecided as to whethr we will open on April 2?, at Geneva, of ship South and open Saturday, April 17. This aggregation will use eighteen cars with the show and two in advance. There will be no parade, instead we will give two big free exhibitions, one in the afternoon and one in the evening. The property that Mr. Damon has acquired is as new as any in the business, and it will be known as the Gilt Edge Show of America. As it has only been recently decided to take this outfit on the road, there are not many people engaged at present, however, Joe Cole will be boss hostler and Jim Wilson will have charge of the trappings and dressing room. They are now in winter quarters. Al. Pancost, who is known to many of the troupers as having had charge of the winter quarters at Geneva for the last eight years, will probably take charge of the train, as he has had previous railroad experience. The canvas, wardrobe and harness of this show will all be new, and the wagons virtually new.
Miss Tony, the educated society chimpanzee, said to be the most human-like animal ever ever known, belonging to Mr. and Mrs. Gus Lambrigger, and exhibited by them all over the world, died Feb. 8, from pneumonia. Mr. Lambrigger has ordered another chimpanzee for his wild animal show. It will arrive in New York about April 1.
Harry R. Overton, at present and for the past two seasons manager of the ___ Theatre at Findlay, O., will represent the Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows during the coming season as local contracting agent. Mr. Overton has wide experience as an agent and showman.
The following well known circus billposters are spending the winter at Kansas City, Mo.: Pat Malloy, Joe Cory, Dick Baldwin, Jack ___, Lew Henry . . .
New York Clipper, March 6, 1909, p. 94. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Toto Siegrist held an opening at his cafe and restaurant, 26 West Twenty-second Street, New York, Monday, Feb. 15. Geo. S. Cole came from Pottsdam, N.Y., bringing word that his woodpile is larger than ever. James De Wolfe, press agent for Keith & Proctor's Theatre, and Bert Cole, of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show, were in charge of all details. . . .
Walter L. Main writes the Clipper from Geneva, O., under date of Feb. 25: "Some time ago I noticed in one of your issues that Howard Damon, who is starting a circus from here, is a nephew of mine. This is a mistake. He is no relation to the writer. I am in no way interested in his show excepting that he has acquired a lot of show property from me.
"Also noticed in another issue that I was to do business with a Western man with a twenty car show. I will say that this rumor is without any foundation, that I am not running a show this season. I ran the Walter L. Main Circus, commencing with seven horses, wagons, and the last season that I was out (1904), I was sole owner of a thirty-car R. R. show and I had as much property on the thirty-one cars as some American showmen carry on forty-five. If I ever do decide to begin the Main Show again it will be larger than when I quit the business, as a circus manager can not go backwards.
"The last three years I have been buying, renting and selling show property and enjoying life in a country village, and when anyone who has acquired my property has used my name, he has done so without my authority. In several instances the property went out of Geneva, and knowing the strength of the Main name, the lessee and company have desired to give the impression that it was the Main Show. The public in general should thoroughly understand that there has been no Main Show since 1904, and will not be any in 1909. All these years I have tried to keep thoroughly up on circus news, so as not to be back number if I ever entered the business again. Respectfully, Walter L. Main."
Mr. and Mrs. Fred Hodgson announce the arrival of George Edward Hodgson, Feb. 22, at Collingswood, Canada. Mr. Hodgson will come to New York to attend the opening of the Ringling Show.
The Patty Bros. returned to New York after a successful European trip. They go with the Ringling Show.
Howard Damon, who has leased the W. L. Main winter quarters at Geneva, O., reports that everything is progressing finely in the way of repairs and getting his show ready for the Spring opening
William Trout, hurdle male rider and clown, has been re-engaged for the Al. F. Wheeler Show, being his third season with the "New Model."
E. Kirke Adams and company have contracted to go with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show next season.
New York Clipper, March 13, 1909, p. 120. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
List of tented shows that have signed 1909 agreement with the Billposters and Distributors.
Ringling Brothers', Chas. Ringling, general agent.
Barnum & Bailey, Chas. Ringling, general agent.
Miller Bros.' 101 Ranch Wild West, Fred Beckman, contracting agent.
Cole Brothers' Show, E. C. Knupp, general agent.
Bergen Amusement Co., Frank A. Robbins, president.
Lucky Bill's Show, Lucky Bill, owner.
Buffalo Bill's Wild West and Pawnee Bill's Great Far East Combined, Louis E. Cooke, general agent.
Hagenbeck-Wallace Show, R. M. Harvey, general agent.
Gentry Bros.' Shows, Nos. 1 and 2, J. D. Newman, general agent.
Dawson Bros.' United Shows, James Dawson, manager.
Elstun Bros.' United Shows, F. R. Elstun, manager.
Burk's Combined R. R. Shows, E. Beverle, proprietor.
H. W. Freed's New Show, H. W. Freed, manager.
Heber Bros.' Greater Show, Benj. C. Heber, advance agent.
Molly A. Bailey Southern Shows, M. T. Everton, contracting agent.
Aunt Phebe Show, John Frazer, business manager.
Chas. Geyer's R. R. Shows, Chas. Geyer, owner and manager.
Sun Bros.' Shows, Peter Sun, general agent.
Dave W. Perrine's Show, Dave W. Perrine, owner.
Silver Family Circus, Bert Silver, proprietor and manager.
Howe's Great London Shows, Don McKenzie, manager No. 1 car.
M. L. Clark Show, H. C. Long, general agent.
Honest Bill's Show, Honest Bill, owner and manager.
John A. Ddorward's Great London Shows, John A. Dorward, manager.
La Mont Bros.' Show, C. R. La Mont, manager.
Al. G. Barnes' Wild Animal Show, James A. Morrow, manager.
W. I. Swain Shows, W. I. Swain, proprietor.
Sells-Floto Show, W. E. Franklin, general agent.
J. M. Busy's Shows, J. M. Busby, owner and manager.
Blondin's Big Show, F. V. Dalton, agent.
Norris & Rowe Circus, H. S. Rowe, owner.
Leon Washburn's Circus, Leon Washburn, owner.
Robert Stickney Jr. and wife have signed with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show for the coming season, to do two acts. Mr. Stickney will be in charge of the high school act.
On March 25 Ringling Brothers' Circus will open its season in New York, and will remain for about a month at Madison Square Garden. The circus will also show in Brooklyn this year.
M. L. Clark's Circus, Museum and Menagerie, which has traveled through the South and Southwest as a wagon show, will go out the coming season as a railroad show.
Norris & Rowe's Circus has made a shutout contract with the Southern Pacific R. R. for the next thirty days.
Col. "Bill" McCune, for twenty-five years manager of Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show, was remarried on March 5, on Omaha, Neb., to the woman from whom he was divorced five years ago. Mrs. Alberta McCune, to whom he was married, has lived in New York since her divorce from the colonel. Their first marriage took place in New York City about twenty years ago. The colonel, it is said, will retire from the show business.
The Frank A. Robbins Show opens April 28, at Greenville, N.J. The show will be enlarged, the canvas will be larger, and there will be a number of animals added to the menagerie. . . .
It has been decided that on account of several people who are engaged to go with the Howard Damon Show, season 1909, having engagement at the Cleveland Hippodrome from April 12 to 24, not to open the Howard Damon Show until Monday, April 26, as it will be very convenient for any one engaged, or thinking of engaging with the Howard Damon Show, to get two weeks' engagement at the Cleveland Hippdrome, as it is only an hour's ride from Cleveland to Geneva. The Cleveland Hippodrome will have a big circus and side show in its massive building.
Cortland R. Harris has signed as general agent for Carlin Brothers' Circus for season of 1909. He will have three assistants, and the advance will start out on or about April 24, with a full line of special paper.
M. S. Sliker, with the Two Hopkins, has signed for six weeks with the Andrew Mackay's European Circus, opening at Detroit, Mich., June 27.
Lafferty, the "Frog Man," has signed with the Cole Bros. Circus for season of 1909.
Bert Cole, of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show, will visit his father at Potsdam, N.Y., next week. He will return to New York and will join the show at Peru, Ind., in April.
E. E. Staats, of New York, who has been in the show business for years, writes that he and his brother are going to take out a dog and pony show in 1909, and will call it Staats Bros.' New Show. He says that it will be an up-to-date show, with plenty of acts. L. W. Hoffman will be general manager.
Will Griffith and Arthur Leonard, acrobats, have signed for the coming season with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show.
"Punch" Wheeler is to be the publicity director of the John Robinson Shows this year. He has been circulating in Mexico. The winter camp of the big show at Terrace Park, near Cincinnati, is a busy place just now.
The call of the Barnum & Bailey Show is in this issue. The show will open at the Coliseum, Chicago, Thursday, April 1.
New York Clipper, March 20, 1909, pp. 146, 147. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Progressive methods have placed everything away ahead of time at the winter quarters of the Cole Brothers' Shows. There has not been an idle day since the shows ran in at the close of last season, and superintendent James Downs has enforced the eight hour law to the very minute. It is not exaggerating to say that the shows are ready for the road, with the exception of a few finishing touches, and the coming week will find the major part of the skilled mechanics laid off, and only such men as are to go out with the show employed.
General agent Ed. C. Knupp reports the advance in readiness, and only waiting to be called. All the advance agents, special agents, opposition agents, car managers, and in fact, the complete advance executives, who have not already got busy for the coming season, will be called to report the coming week, and will receive their instructions for their movements for 1909. The printers have reported that the first shipment of paper is ready for delivery to the advance cars, and will be loaded at once. . . . The tent makers have finished their work on the new spread of canvas and are awaiting orders to ship. The canvas will probably come forward the coming week. Every stitch of canvas will be brand new, from cook house and horse tents to big top. However, it is hardly probably that it will be used until after the Spring weather has settled. The canvas used last season is in excellent condition and could be made to carry the show through another season, but there will be no departure from custom this year, and that is to have an entirely new outfit. The big top will carry an additional middle piece this season, as will the side show. Two additional horse tents will be used. The canvas wagon covers, that were made by the tent makers that built the main tents, have arrived, and now cover the many cages and parade wagons.
The New Morton House has been designated as the official hotel for the shows, and already it is filling up with the troupers. Prof. Charles Tinney will be musical director again this season, and will lead a band of forty pieces. This will be the same number of musicians that comprised the first band last season. Prof. Jesse ___ will be equestrian director, a position he has most creditably filled for five years. There will not be one act with the show that has been with it before. The programme will be made up entirely of new features, and many of them are those that have never been seen before in this country. The exhibition of trained animals will be particularly interesting, especially the high school menage acts. The aerial acts and ground workers are numerous, and selected from the ranks of the very best known in the profession. The contingent of clowsn numbers no less than forty-one funny fellows. The shows will open the season about the time the other shows open under canvas, and will go into two weeks rehearsal. One week's rehearsal will be in the show's spacious ring barn in the winter quarters, and the second week under the tents, which will be put up one week in advance of the opening day in the opening town.
Geraldine Dolores Pubillones, the attractive and beautiful little daughter of Colonel and Mrs. Antonio Pubillones, was christened at Monserrate Church, Havana, Cuba, March _. Her sponsors were Mrs. Leopold and Senor Don Bonito Guiterrez. Mrs. Pubillones, mother of the younger Geraldine, who has inherited her famous beauty, is known all over the world as the "Beautiful Geraldine." Since her marriage to Col. Antonio Pubillones, of Cuba, she has been missed greatly amng the professional attractions, but has very naturally given up her profession for private life. She has, however, promised some of her friends in Cuba that she will appear again for them some day, as a personal favor. Geraldine Dolores, on the occasion of her christening, was the recipient of some handsome rememberances from the big circus company and haer numerous friends. A reception was held after the ceremony, at the Hotel ___.
Haag's Mighty Wagon Shows, organized in New Orleans, left there by train March 9, to open season in New Memphis, Tenn., March 12. The show will travel by wagon, and the territory will take in Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia, etc. The big top is 80ft., with two 48ft. middle pieces; thirty-eight baggage wagons, cages and hacks, one hundred and forty head of horses, mules and ponies. E. H. Haag is manager and proprietor; ?. H. Oliver, general superintendent.
La Belle Clark and her dancing horse, "Grand Duke," are playing the Wm. Morris ___ in vaudeville. They finish this week at the Fulton Street, Brooklyn, after which the act joins the Frank A. Robbins Circus.
Percy ___ has signed with Prof. Dell Smith, bandmaster of Gollmar Bros. Shows, to lead the orchestrra and play alto in the band, being his third season with this show.
Billy Armstrong, black face comedian, has just closed sixteen weeks of Southern and Western time, and is spending a short vacation, the guest of his sister at Columbus, Neb., preparatory to assuming his duties as press agent for the Perry & Smith's Consolidated Railroad Shows.
Dave W. Perrine, of Perrine's Dog and Pony Shows, has added a Wild West show this season, in connection with his dog and pony show. He has also purchased a farm for winter and training quarters for the show, which will be known as Tiger Bill's Wild West, Trained Animal and Hippodrome Shows. Everything will be new this season and the performances of a high order in all departments. It is understood that no parade will be given, but there will be something doing on the show lot to hold and amuse the people. Dave W. Perrine is sole owner and manager.
The Sparks Show will open the season March 18.
Welsh Brothers' news notes. New bookings for the "Big Show" programme include the following people: . . . Miss Martino, rolling globe expert . . . The show will rehearse for one week at Emmit Park, Camden, N.J., prior to the opening performance. Owing to the fact that the show will make all three day and week stands, the tops and surrounding exhibition grounds will be illuminated with electricity. A complete portable electric plant will be carried; no gasoline lamps of any kind will be used. As a special added feature display of the "Big Show" performance, Madame Yucca, surnamed the Female Sandow, has been engaged. The act will prove a revelation, inasmuch as all exploits in heavy object lifting will be employed, together with magnificent apparatus and spectacular surroundings.
Ringling Brothers' World's Greatest Shows are to be introduced to Manhattan islanders for the first time March 25. The traditional circus season at the Madison Square Garden will pass under the control of the new kings this year, and the familiar Barnum & Bailey Shows will, for the first time in twenty-five years, begin its annual tour at Chicago. The invasion of New York City by the conquering Ringling Brothers has been impending for several years, but the James A. Bailey interests were powerful enough to deny this advantage to their progressive and overwhelming rival. At last the hand of fate, which has written well and kindly of the Ringling firm, pointed the way to the ___ prize, and now the five million people who struggle within the boundary lines of Greater New York are to have a new circus.
New York City is the only big city in the country not to hae seen the great Ringling Circus before, and, as indicated, a peculiar local condition prevented their exhibition here. The Barnum & Bailey Show, although a distinctive institution, and traveling, as always, under its famous name, is now owned and managed by the Ringling Brothers. They also own the Adam Forepaugh and Sells Brothers' property, but have retired it from the circus field. But the big show which bears their name and has made their reputation world wide is naturally the apple of their eye, and has ___ to its development their best efforts. No circus in the history of the business ever employed so many people or presented such an aggregate of features, and the sequel of prosperity is the logical line of cause and effect. The system of the Ringling organization is well nigh perfect, and has attracted government notice with profitable suggestion for the rapid movement and feeding of large bodies of soldiers. Remembering that the Ringling Brothers require eighty-five extra length cars to transport their aggregation, serve ___ meals a day on the show lot, display forty elephants and over six hundred horses, and use twelve acres of ground when their immense tents are spread, it is not a far-away vision to understand its claims. . . .
Conspicuous among the new features announced for this year's programme are the Schuman horses, which have been the pride and glory of Schuman's Berlin Circus . . . the Saxon Trio, amazingly strong men, who uphold a bridge over which an 8,000 pound automobile races; the Lorsch Family . . . and the Taximeter horses that harness and unharness themselves, and do other unusual things. The Ringling three herds of performing elephants are promised to excel in variety and wonderment of tricks anything ever seen before. These beasts play musical instruments, telephone, play ball, and otherwise rise to a height of understanding and ability unique in elephant training.
Emma Stickney, Clark Brothers . . . Lulu Davenport, Josie Clark, Florence Harris, Marie Bell, Etta Green, Hobsons, Burtons, Jack Foley, Frank Schadel and John Agee are foremost among the riders. Prominent in the long list of gymnasts are: the Pachero Family, Bedford Family, Jordan Family, Lorsch Family, Three Burtons, Montrose Troupe, Livingston Trio, Horton and Linden, Prosit, Mardo, and___ Trios, and the Marnello Marnitz Troupe. The Ringling performing elephants, trained and directed by George Kealey, will be seen to better advantage than ever, and this is promising a good deal . . . Karslake's educated pigs give comedy life to the trained animal number in the huge programme. Fifty clowns, led by George Hartzell and the veteran Al. Miaco, will be busy factors in sustaining enjoyable interest. A double somersaulting automobile steered by Mlle. La Roche, is the "thriller." The new circus regime in Gotham is hailed on every side, and sensational results are indicated.
New York Clipper, April 3, 1909, pp. 193, 194. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Woodford & Elzor's Big Wagon Shows will open at Falconer, N.Y., May 3, for one week, under the auspices of the Falconer Firemen. This show will carry a side show, a tiny mite, or smallest horse show, and two big free attractions. The big top will be 60x150ft., and the free attractions will consist of the highest high diving dog in the world, and the monkey aeronaut, "Mrs. Murphy." Mr. Woodford was the originator of this act, which he first placed before the public at San Souci Park, Chicago, in 1898. The big show will carry ten big feature acts, as follows: Woodford's educated animals, Frank Melrin's midget animal circus, Frank's statue dog, "King"; Smith's $__ a minute mule, Albert's musical dogs and pony, the Woodford Sisters, novelty high wire act; Violet and Lulu, in their unique dances; Ju-nam-i, rolling globe on the spiral tower, and the celebrated Elzor Family, with four of the best up-to-date clowns to furnish the comedy.
A fine ticket and office wagon is now under construction at Woodford's winter quarters. This show will tour Pennsylvania and West Virginia, playing one day and one week stands, under the auspices of the different local lodges, and will be known as the Eagles' Circus or the Elk's Circus, as the case may be. The business staff will be as follows: Chas. Woodford and Fred Elzor, general managers; Al. Primrose, advance; Mrs. Chas. Woodford, secretary and treasurer; Geo. Flinn, manager of concessions; Floyd Putnam, equestrian director; James Van Every, boss hostler; Billie Ramzedello, head property man; Grover Davidson, boss animal man; E. A. Durand will have charge of the big top, and the side show will be under the management of J. A. McArthur. With new tents and new wagons, drawn by sixteen head of beautiful gray horses, this will be one of the neatest wagon shows on the road.
Notes from the Howard Damon Circus. A number of young horses have just been bought, among them some thoroughbred Kentucky saddle horses from Troop A, of Cleveland. These horses were purchased in Kentucky especially for the inauguration, and were sold at auction recently, at the Troop A armory in Cleveland. Wes Pike, formerly treasurer with the Hargreaves Shows and the Frank A. Robbins Shows, is here, and will be secretary and treasurer for Mr. Damon. Frank Miller, wife an daughter, are at winter quarters, practising some new riding stunts. Mr. Miller will be equestrian director. Rube Hanley has arrived at winter quarters, and will make fun for the Howard Damon patrons, season of 1909. Doc ___ will handle the press, back with the show. A miniature calliope has just arrived for the advance car. One of the latest moving picture machines has just been purchased, and will be used to give free exhibitions with the advance car. The latest film, entitled "A Circus; or, Traveling with a Circus," will be shown. A carload of the best preforming horses, dogs and ponies in the country have been engaged, and also a troupe of elephants, which will do all new stunts.
Chas. Bachtel will lead the big show band, and will also furnish a lady band for the side show. The big show band will have twenty pieces, and the side show band will be composed of twelve ladies. John R. Pepperdine has just leased the candy stands and the lunch car privilege with the Howard Damon Shows for the summer season of 1909. Mr. Pepperdine is in Geneva now and will remain at the winter quarters until the season opens. Mat. King will handle the canvas for the aggregation. The latest engagements are: La Roy and Hayes, aerialists; Ardinger and Rowland, rubes; Laporch and wife, gymnasts; H. Miller, talking clown, etc.; La Reve Brothers, acrobats; Tim Delaney, side show door tendr and leader of parade. The following are the latest additions to the side show: physical culture and strong act, Edward Gavin; back contortion, etc., Chas. Grove, wife and boy, handcuff act, water barrel act, bag punching dogs. It is now decided that the opening date will be Saturday, April 24, at Geneva, Ohio. . . .
B. H. Mills has signed for the coming season as general agent with the Lorenzo & Maurers R. R. Shows. He will have tour assistants. The advance will start billing April 20, with all new paper form stand work to heralds. Mr. Mills is now spending a few weeks at his home town of Glens Falls, N.Y., after an absence of nine years.
E. G. Rolland will go out next season as assistant manager with Frank A. Robbins' Circus.
Mr. Wheeler, owner of Wheeler's New Model Shows, was in Harrisburg, Pa., last week, on important business. He reported all well at the winter quarters of the show at Oxford, Pa., and that everything will be ready in time for the opening date.
Geo. B. Beckley has been engaged as general agent for the Welsh Bros.' Newest Great Shows, which opens its season at Camden, N.J.
George Weymann has been engaged as principal clown with the Dode Fisk's Combined Railroad Shows.
Lorenzo & Maurer's Pavilion Vaudeville Circus is the title of a new venture that will bid for honors in the tented field this season, under the management of Chas. Lorenzo and Chas. Maurer. An entire new outfit is fast nearing completion at the winter quarters at Reading, Pa. Twenty-five people will be carried, including several headline acrobats, aerial and vaudeville acts. Two and three day stands will be made throughout Western Pennsylvania and the Central States. B. H. Mills will be in advance, with three assistants.
Mr. and Mrs. Ben Stalker, known in the show world as Buckskin Ben and wife, celebrated their silver wedding anniversary at their home in Cambridge City, Ind., on March 15. . . . Cambridge City is the winter quarters of Buckskin Ben's Wild West Shows. The Wild West Show will open its road season sometime during the month of May.
Notes from the J. H. Boyer Famous Show, Floyd Trover, manager. We are now in Georgia, having played just three months, to big business, in the State of Florida. . . . Prof. Ring, our band leader, left on March 15, for a three weeks' visit to his home in Illinois, and Lloyd Massey joined to take the band during his visit. We have just had the show painted, and our car decorated for our summer tour, and will work North as fast as the weather permits. . . .
Adele Purvis Onri has received a cable from her brother, Frank Brown, the South American circus manager. He has been visiting France and Holland in search of circus talent, and is at present stopping at the Victoria Hotel, London, England.
Rice Brothers' Big Ten Car Shows open in St. Louis, Mo., April 16.
Mary Petroff has signed for the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show.
The Sisters Curzon, who are with Ringling Bros.' Circus, received by mail last week and official paper for damages against Circus Schuman, of Berlin, Germany, for 11,000 marks. This act played at the circus without a net. The German police notified the management to place a net in the act and they refused. The act had to stop working and J. W. Curzon entered suit for four weeks; layoff. The courts held that the management of the circus should have played the act with a net.
Amos McCoy, well known to circus managers throughout the country as an acrobat and lion tamer, died in Colorado Springs, Colo., on Monday, March 15, from pneumonia. He went there some time ago broken in health, and was employed in the Zoo as a caretaker.
New York Clipper, April 10, 1909, pp. 221, 232. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
New Acts with Ringling Bros.' Circus. The "Taximeter Act." What is designated as the Taximeter Act with the Ringling Show was shown in Ring 3 of Display __, and it was novel enough to keep the close attention of the audience. A victoria, a horse and two men figure in the act, and the efforts of the driver to coax the horese to draw the vehicle take up the early portions of the specialty. The animal refuses to work, and finally becomes so unruly that he pull the man riding in the carriage out on the ground by gripping his coat, and then jumps in the carriage himself. The victoria is finally drawn out of the ring by the driver, and the horse walks behind. The act was out of the usual kind of circus offerings, and aroused comments on all sides.
Evelyn Francisco, who performas a high school riding act on the hippodrome track of the Ringling Show while Mrs. Maude Wulff gives her delightful riding exhibit in the centre ring, is a clever rider. The horse she bestrides is handled in capital style, and after a series of pretty evolutions the animal does some great steps in time with the music of the band. Miss Francisco, in addition to her riding, appears as the exhibitor and handler of the well known Wulff act, called "The Three Friends."
The Belford Family, seven in number, appear on Stage _, in display __, of the Ringling Show, in acrobatics of a high order of excellence. Double somersaults from shoulder to shoulder are executed in a clean cut way, and the act is nicely arranged throughout. Risley work enters largely ___ the offering . . .
Miss Agie, with the Ringling Show, last week offered an exhibition of pretty and eccentric driving on the hippodrome track, in display No. 7, a little black horse attached to a light cart being put through all manner of tricks. The lady showed some neat driving, and at the finish of the act, when all the riders concerned in the display caused their mounts to exit while keeping time to a spirited "rag" played by the band, the little horse kept fine time.
In ring No. 2, of display 12, with the Ringling Show, the Three McCrees (man, woman and dog) offered a sprightly riding act in jockey costume, drawing forth the warmest kind of praise from the audience. Both of the McCrees do some great leaps from the ground to the back of the horse, and the dog, whose joyful barks told of how intensely the work appealed to him, was all over the horse and the ground in his leaps. The carrying act shown later on in display 16, also put the McCrees in a very pleasing light, and showed that in all departments of the riding game they were experts.
One of the cleverest trapeze specialties shown in connection with the Ringling Show at Madison Square Garden is given by the Great Smiths, in display No. _. They perform double trapeze work which is replete with effective features, and every feat is clean cut. As a finish the extended swing forms a sensational climax to the act. In this the man, hanging head downward, holds the woman by means of a plainted rope swing. These plaits are suddently released, and the woman ___ down to the end of the rope, stopping within a few feet of the ground. The act is a very commendable one.
Frank Schadel's school of trick horses, as a part of display _ with the Ringling Circus, proved a well drilled and interesting act. Five animals, trim looking and neatly groomed, are made by the trainer to posture in various ways and to go through their evolutions with rapidity. The animals swing quickly from one trick to another, and have been trained to that point of efficency where little urging seems to be required.
A display gives up to jockey acts is No. 12 on the programme of the Ringling Show, and the Hobsons (man and woman) appeared in ring No. 1 last week in riding that was thoroughly interesting and most skillful. In pink jockey costume the couple rode single and double, performing their list of tricks with a ease that was delightful to watch, and finished by introducing a riding dog, which sprang upon the back of the horse and thence to the ground with a keen delight in the proceedings. Mr. Hobson's leaps to the back of the running horse from the ground were especially well done, and he landed on his feet and maintained his balance without a miss. Later, in dispaly __, the Hobsons performed a pretty carrying act in ring No. 3, the lady being balanced in a number of graceful poses. Their riding throughout merited the applause it received.
A high wire act by the younger members of the Jordan Family . . . The display in which the Jordans appeared was a big one, containing many acts, but their work was of such gilt edged merit that they forced the audience to pay them particular attention. The girls, who perform the greater part of the work, are both pretty, and they execute their various feats with great skill. One lies down on the wire while the other girl walks over her prostrate body, and then one girl hops all the way across the wire on one foot. One of the best of the tricks was the double walk across the wire by both girls, who stroll across the narrow path side by side. A ___ by the girls was then shown, and a human wheelbarrow also made a good impression. The youth's work, particularly his quick turns, was greatly liked. As a finish the rapid standing, seing on the wire by one of the sisters drew forth hearty applause, and made a capital conclusion for the specialty.
Norris & Rowe notes. The opening of the Greater Norris & Rowe Circus, March 20, at Denver, Col., was made under favorable circumstances. The show is one of the best that has ever appeared under the Norris & Rowe banner, and the general satisfaction given was gratifying to the management.
Display No. 1 presented a picturesque equestrian novelty in two parts. "The Charge of the Royal Black Horse Hussars" and "The Gathering of the Garlands," in which the male riders of the Norris & Rowe Circus appeared in full force and gave a fine exhibition.
M. Glasscock and M. Anlo exhibited two herds of elephants in display 2, and this was followed by feats of leaping, jumping and vaulting by champion leapers and jumpers. Display 4 was given over to equestrianism by Miss Costello and Rose Dockrill, in the two rings, while a lot of clowns made merry on the stage. Gymnasts and acrobats were given a show in displays 5 and 6, and the Kelly Troupe of wire performers, the Orton Troupe, bicycle riders on the wire, and B. Orton on the bounding wire, all did fine work. The Halloways and the Delavants were the features of display 7, and they gave high class jockey acts in the ring. This was followed by a fine pony act, presented by M. Belene, and a comedy elephant act directed by M. Glasscock.
For display No. 9 the Nelson Bros. and Mack, Sylvester and Mack, gave fine acrobatic performances. Dave Costello and George Holland followed with equestrian acts, and Bronson's Living statues had display 11 to themselves. The Tazana Sisters and the Sisters French furnished sensational aerial acts in display No. 12.
The Peerless Banvards were the sole performers in display No. 13, and in their mid-air performance awoke much enthustiasm. Then followed a number of high class menage acts. The Barker Troupe, in display 15, proved themselves masters of the bicycle. George Holland and Rose Dockrill and the Costellos gave double riding acts. In display 18 the Ortons, the Shencks, the Banvards, the Sisters Glasscock and Mr. Dooley all presented acts on the trapeze, and this was followed by ground and lofty tumbling by the company. Display No. 20 was occupied by the Golden Troupe of Russian Dancers, and the usual hippodrome races brought the performance to a close.
R. H. Dockrill is equestrian director, and F. X. Branson, musical director. Gloria Dair, "the girl that sings to beat the band," is a feature of the daily and nightly concerts.
Jennie's 213th Birthday Celebration. A unique celebration occurred Sunday, April 4, at the Madison Square Garden, when Jennie, the pride of the Ringling Brothers' collection of elephants, was the centre of attraction. The event commemorated the 213th anniversary of the birth of Jennie, and was honored by the presence of thirty guests, among whom were representative men and women in science and literature.
"Lady Jennie," and the animal is affectionately called by her keeper, is said to be the oldest elephant in captivity. The first known of her is that while George Washington was still president of the United States she was caught in the wilds of India and taken to London, Eng., as an attraction of the Zoological Gardens in that city. At that time, one hundred and thirteen years ago, it was estimated the animal was one hundred years old. From London "Lady Jennie" was taken to Liverpool in 1806. In 1846 Jerty Fogg and Evenetiz Howes, who operated a small show through the States, purchased the animal, brought her to America, and under their director "Lady Jennie" saw her first circus. In 1855 the animal became the property of the city of New Orleans. Next she was with a small road show, and then was a park attraction at Rockford, Ill. Charles Andress was the next circus proprietor to secure "Lady Jennie," and in 1889 he sold her to the Ringling Bros. for their World's Greatest Shows, with which she has since remained. "Lady Jennie" is one of the kindest of her species. She has never given her keeper any trouble, and she is easily taught to perform feats which other elephants only learn after much patience and labor has been expended on the. She was very much in evidence at the banquet given in her honor, and kept her keeper busy feeding her with peanuts and other elephantine delicacies. The menu for the affair was as follows:
Jungle Tiffin. Commemorating the Two Hundred and Thirteenth Anniversary of the Birth of Jennie,
Elephant's Milk
Soup a la Jennie
Celery, Olives, Radishes
Poisson Elephantus
Proboscidian Patties
India Sandwiches
Jungle Salad, Zoo Dressing
Jumbo Peanuts, Circus Kind
Elephant Bricks
17th Century Cheese
20th Century Coffee.
Col. Wm. F. Cody (Buffalo Bill) arrive in New York last week. The Buffalo Bill and Pawnee Bill Consolidated Wild West and Far East Shows open at Madison Square Garden April 26.
J. A. Smith, a horse dealer, of Beaver Falls, Pa., has been engaged as superintendent of stock for Wild Bill and Pawnee Bill Wild West Show.
Charles (Kid) Lovell, late of the original Barnum-Bailey executive forces, has signed with manager John T. Welsh, for his Welsh Bros.' Newest Great Shows, opening at Camden, N.J., the latter part of April.
John White Jr., son of the famous equine and animal breaker, John White, of Baltimore, will introduce his novelty educated menage and cakewalking mule with the Welsh Bros.' Shows this season. Young Mr. White has perfected the act to the highest degree possible, and anticipates big success. He will also present his famous comedic-equestric specialty, "Pete Jenkins," which he has completely modernized and brought up to date.
Miller Bros.' 101 Ranch opens at Ponca City, Oklahoma, Saturday, April 17.
Gollmar Bros. open at Baraboo, Wis., May 8.
Ricardo Bell and Alberto Bell arrived in New York last week in the interest of their circus in Mexico.
New York Clipper, April 17, 1909, pp. 256, 266. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Ringling Show jottings. The Saxons gave a private performance of their various feats for a number of physical culture experts of the city on Sunday, April 11, in the Garden. The Schumann horses have been creating all manner of talk, and they certainly do more novel things in the act than have been shown in New York for many a day. The great number of clowns concerned in the "cutting-up" capers of the show, and the funny things they do, attract a great deal of interest to this department. The aerial acts are many and varied, and although all have undeniable merit, the specialty of the Curson Sisters, the wire act of the younger Jordan Troupe, and the great work of the Clarkonians and the big Jordan Family are of such startling cleverness as to cause the public to remember the acts long after seeing the show. A great deal has been heard in praise of the pretty cart riding act devised by the Three Duttons, who have a number that is expecially fine in its line. Robiedillo's feats on the wire have proven of such unusual daring and skill that the little Mexican wonder is getting a big reception at every performance. The Aerial Shaws continue to do their fine trapeze act. The effects of Mrs. Shaw's recent illness have entirely disappeared, and the hearty applause which greets their work at every performance is a nice tribute to those sterling performers. Little Lord Roberts, the midget companion of Coretta, who recently underwent an operation for appendicitis, is now on the road to recovery, and hopes soon to take his place by the side of his tiny sweetheart. Mrs. Darwin is the latest addition to the Ringling menagerie. Darwin, up to present, has resented the intrusion of his companion, and absolutely refuses to make friends with her.
Loudon & Warren Combined Shows. Winter quarters at Greenville, Pa., is the scene of much activity at the present time, where the work of putting the combined shows in shape for the fifth annual tour is now under way. Sixteen head of horses and four new wagons have been added, also a new 60x90 main tent, dressing top and horse tent. The show will be practically new and complete in every way. The arenic performance will be by far the best and strongest ever offered by managers Loudon and Warren. The following performers have signed for the season: the Aerial Wantzels, Vera and Eva; the Taggart Family (5 in number), society acrobats; Elasto, the youthful contortionist; David Hulsher, floating silver wire; Mlle. and Mons. La Vere, triple bars and foot juggling; Mrs. Loudon's troupe of Italian greyhounds, Alexander, juggler and hoop roller, and Frank Askins, Irish comedy.
Notes from the Oscar Lowande Troupe in Cuba. After having played a four weeks' engagement with Pubillones' Circus, in Havana, Cuba, Mr. Lowande has taken his own show on the road, and is meeting with success. We have a band of eight pieces. Roster of performers: Oscar Lowande, in his principal somersault act, closing with a somersault from one horse to another while running tandem; the Great Thaly, an act of eight people and four horses; Mrs. Oscar Lowande, principal rider; the Two Devenes, in a novelty equilibristic and two horse carrying act; the Jordan Bros., revolving ladder act; Leo Tero, swinging perch; the Carl Dammann Troupe of acrobats (six people); Harry Jordan, right wire act . . . clowns, Kukuto, Sims, Sugranes and the Lano Bros. We have two more weeks here, after which we sail for the States, to open Oscar Lowande's Great Bay State Show in May.
John G. Robinson is planning to take Robinson's Ten Big Shows to Havana after this season's close. After a trip through Cuba, a trip to Yucatan, Colon and Panama will be made. This will be followed by an extensive tour of the West Indies, with engagements at Martinique, St. Kitts, the Bermudas, Jamaica, Hayti, Bahama and Porto Rico. South America wil next be visited, opening at Georgetown, British Guiana, Rio Janeiro, Buenos Ayres and other Argentine towns are listed. The show is to travel by chartered steamer which will round the Horn, and make the ports of Peru and Chili, and second Panama engagement, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Nicaragua. The first winter will be spent in Brazil, and the second in the City of Mexico. No American tented show has ever before attempted such a great swing around the Latin American circuit.
Welsh Brothers' Circus to open in Camden, N.J. Indications are that when the Welsh Bros.' Circus makes its 1909, its equipment and performance will excel anything this popular show has done heretofore. With new stock, paraphernalia and some sterling good acts booked, including Prof. John White's Trained Animal Hippodrome, Manchester's Musical Ponies, Madame Yucca, the female Sandow; Aerial Leons, Carresica's band, the 1909 season will open very auspiciously. Clinton Newton is the press representative, which seems that the publicity end of the business is in capable hands. John T. Welsh is manager. The circus opens in Camden, N.J., for a weeks' stay, on April 24. A full dress rehearsal will precede the week's engagement at the Camden grounds.
The John Robinson call appears in this issue. The show opens at Circleville, O., May 1.
Notes from Cole Bros.' Shows. M. J. Downs, owner, James Downs, manager, and Ed. C. Knupp, general agent, represented the Cole Bros.' Show at the Ringling Bros.' opening, while James Downs and Ed. C. Knupp represented it at the Barnum opening. Treasurer Fred Robinson has arrived from Cincinnati, and is ready to dish out the first bunch of pasteboards. Lizzie Rooney is among the recent arrivals and active patrons of the ring barn. "Doc" Ogden, who will manage the side show, arrived last week, and is putting the finished touches on his outfit. He has announced his roster as following: J. E. Ogden, manager; Deacon Dellmore, assistant; William Roach, H. M. Matthews and James A. Wilson, ticket sellers; Prof. Zednar, Punch and Judy; Unie Zednar, Oriental magician; La Mac and Siada, Chinese opium den; Joe Cramer, human giraffe; Mlle. Crawford, lady with horse's mane; the Colemans, tattooed people; Mlle. Lorena, mind reader; the Hortons, Mexican impalement act; Prof. Joe Wolfscale's Georgia Minstrels and cakewalkers. The side show will carry a colored band of twenty-one pieces. The minstrel performance will be given with a full orchestra.
The shops are practically quiet now, and the show is ready for the getaway at any time. The call has been sent out for all to be in New Castle, Pa., 24, and rehearsals will start 21, when all engaged for the performances and side show will be on hand. The workingmen will report to the heads of their departments at Harbor Creek 17. Prof. Chas. Tinney will be the musical director again this season, and will rehearse the musicians while the show is rehearsing in New Castle. The first advance car left Erie 8, but the flying brigade has been out for over a week. The first car carries a crew of thirty-two men, and they are all old timers. There has not been a student engaged for the advance of the show. Every sheet of paper used this year is new, and not one sheet of old stuff has been loaded. The paper is swell, but the show will more than make good for it.
Col. Cody and L. E. Decker are the proprietors of the show to be sent out by the Cody Amusement Co., with E. B. Rivers as manager.
Rice Bros. Circus will open at St. Louis, Mo., April 19, for the season.
Yankee Robinson Show opens at Des Moines, Ia., April 29.
"Pop" Semon's Golden Wedding. Mr. and Mrs. S. H. Semon, of New York and New Rochelle, celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of their marriage at the residence of his niece, Mrs. S. P. Steiner, No. 415 Central Park West, on Tuesday evening, April 6. An informal reception was held, attended by their children, grandchildren, relatives and friends. Many handsome presents were received, and numerous telegrams and letters of congratulation arrived during the evening. The bridegroom was born in New York, July 27, 1835, at Canal and Elizabeth Streets (Sixth Ward), and was a member of the Old Volunteer Fire Department at the time of his marriage. The couple were married at No. 11 Prince Street, New York, Wednesday, April 6, 1859. They were blessed with seven children, four of whom are living: Dr. Jos. Semon, of New Rochelle; Lawrence Semon, of Philadelphia; Mrs. B. L. Richmond and Mrs. E. G. Tuttle, of New York. The couple have lived happily together, and from their youthful appearance, at seventy-three and sixty-seven years of age, respectively, look as though they will celebrate many more marriage anniversaries.
S. H. Semon is well known in the circus profession, having been for thirty-five years contracting agent for Adam Forepaugh, Barnum & Bailey, and Buffalo Bill's Wild West, up to the time of his retirement this season. He is known as "Pop" Semon throughout the United States by city officials, property owners and business men, with whom he has had transactions amounting to many millions of dollars. He bears an enviable reputation, and his retirement from the show world leaves a gap that will be hard to fill. Among the guests at the reception were many of his former associates and relatives of the couple from Cincinnati, Richmond, Baltimore, Philadelphia and Washington.
Hans Wagner & Bros. Circus and Congress of Athletes opens May 15, at Carnegie, Pa.
Buckskin Ben notes. The twenty-third season of Buckskin Ben's Famous Wild West Shows will commence with the opening of Cincinnati's popular resort, Chester Park, on Friday, May 7. A large space of ground has been laid off at the park for the use of this show, and the patrons of the park will have a treat in store for them. This show is known as the biggest "little" show on the road in this line, and carries with it this season original ideas in the lines that go to make up an attraction of this kind. In securing the Buckskin Ben's Famous Wild West Shows, the park management have undoubtedly secured a great attraction, as the show is almost double the size of former years, carrying about thirty people, twenty-four head of stock, and its own novelty concert band, made up of cowboys and cowgirls, in Wild West costumes. This attraction will play the parks until about September, and finish its season at the State fairs in the North and South. Ethel Stalker Hyde, second eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Stalker (Buckskin Ben), of Cambridge City, Ind., died very suddenly at her home in Greenville, O., on Monday, April 4. Mrs. Hyde was the wife of Rolla Hyde, of the Greenville Opera House.
At Des Moines, Ia., on April 8, Big Tom, an elephant in Yankee Robinson's Circus, picked up his attendant, Charles Bartlow, hurled him into air and then beat his body to pulp against a barn in the winter quarters. The big brute then ran through Ingersoll Park, uprooted half a dozen small trees, turned over three circus wagons, tore the roof from his barn, and demolished a rustic bridge. For an hour, forty men tried to capture the elephant. . . .
Tanner's Dog and Pony Show opens the season of 1909 at Medford, Wis., Monday, May 17, with the following roster: Dr. R. Tanner and Thos. Pemberton, sole owners; Dr. ?. Tanner, manager; Archie Boyer, general agent; Bert Shaw, leader of band, with twelve pieces; Rosena, contortionist; Will Burch, clown; the Tanners, Ben and ___, double traps and flying rings; Pemberton's educated ponies, including ___, trick pony; Charles Huffman, high wire; Texas Harry, trick roping, shooting and knife throwing, and Miss Benzilla and her educated poodles. Everything is in shipshape order, and the show will be put out on five cars, making it one of the neatest and best dog and pony shows on the road.
Great Wagner Show notes. Everything is in readiness for the opening, the first week in May. We will have one of the most expensive dog acts in the show business - a troupe of all genuine French poodles, twenty in number. Jolly Jenero, the clown, has a big package of fun which he will give away free of charge to everyone seeing the big show. Al G. Millens, the old time clown, will be another fun maker for this season.
Margaret, wife of J. C. O'Brian, side show manager of Campbell Brothers' Circus, died at the family home in Chicago, Ill., on April 3, from spinal meningitis, aged forty-seven years. She is survived by a husband, mother, brother and three sisters. Mr. and Mrs. O'Brian had been married for thirty-one years, and were always together during that period. For fifteen years past she had had charge of uptown ticket wagons with tented enterprises, and for ten years the couple had been with Campbell Brothers. Interment was in Chicago.
Albert Gaston, the veteran singing and talking clown, has signed with Coulter & Coulter's Big Dog and Pony show. "While in Fairbury, Neb.," Mr. Gaston writes, "I had a splendid visit with the Campbell Bros., at their winter quarters, where everything looks grand in red and gold for the opening at Kansas City. We are all looking forward to the opening of the white tents."
The Rose Edyth Ballet Troupe has been engaged for the comong season for Frank A. Robbins' Circus. The troupe will present the "The Directoire Ballet," "The Golden March" and "Eight French Dolls." Mlle. Rose Edyth is premier danseuse, ballet mistress and manager of the troupe. Madame Thompson has designed some new and elaborate costumes and artistic coloring for the ballet numbers as usual.
Frank Macarte returned from Europe last week, after a two months trip. He will manage the Yankee Robinson Show this season, opening at Des Moines, Ia.
The Norris & Rowe Circus opened at Santa Cruz, Cal., as previously announced in the Clipper, and not at Denver, Colo., as erroneously stated in our last issue.
New York Clipper, April 24, 1909, p. 284. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Ringling Show notes. Slater, one of the clowns with the circus, doubles as a chariot rider in the hippodrome races. George Hartzell, leading clown, is a great reader of historical books. He can always be found pondering over a book in the dressing room during his spare moments. Robledillo, wire walker, has a craze for ___. The other night he borrowed Tom Mardo's whiskers and had Mardo make his face up. When he got through with his act he wanted to buy the whiskers. The Three Corellis, who do a comedy acrobatic act, are always trying out new tricks in their spare moments. Chas Smith, of the Aerial Smiths, who does clowning with the show, presents a comical number which brings many laughs at each performance. He comes out with a sprinkling can, emptying the water in a circle. He then disrobes, puts his clothes in a pile, and does pantomime swiming. A monkey enters a carries his clothes away. When he finds his clothes gone, he gets into a barrel and uses a duster for a hat.
There are rehearsals held at Madison Square Garden every day. The musicians are rehearsing, under the direction of Al. Sweet, for the street parade on mounted horses, because the music is strange to the horses. One can enjoy a good laugh when they begin to prance, with a tuba player balancing himself and instrument. The other acts are rehearsing for the concert, which will be a feature on the road, beginning with Brooklyn next week. The Hobsons, who do a jockey act and a carrying act, have received several offers for vaudeville at the end of the tenting season. Ed. Millette, the upside down trapeze performer, is a great checker player, and while waiting for his turn in the arena he can be found pondering over a checker board. The Lorch Family, after they finish their tour with the Ringling Bros.' Circus, will be a fixture at the New York Hippodrome next winter.
Prof. Ed. Wulff, who works the Schuman "brewery" horses with the show, must be given a great deal of credit. It is much harder for a trainer to work stock belonging to someone else. Mme. Wulff, who is an expert horsewoman and rider, is winning great praise for her work. Little Koko, who assists Joe Deltorelli in his clowning with the show, makes up as a Spanish senorita in one number. Tripp and Veling, who are clowning with the show, have in preparation for next season a novelty club juggling act. The Curzon Sisters, one of the feature acts with this show, will terminate their contract as a strengthener in Brooklyn, N.Y., May 1, after which they will go to their home . . . Ringling Bros. World's Greatest Shows will have their first parade of the season at Brooklyn, N.Y., Monday morning, April 26, at 9 a.m. sharp.
It has been decided by Mr. Damon to open his circus season at Geneva, O., Thursday, April 29. Everything is in fine shape at the winter quarters, and the show is ready to be placed on the lot at this writing. Quite a number of the performers are at work practicing at the winter quarters. The No. 1 advance left Geneva April 15 with a fine line of paper.
Rice Bros.' Colossal Railroad Shows opening the season in St. Louis, Mo., on April 17, with a monster street parade. It was cleverly advertised for fully two weeks prior to the opening, and in consequence two big crowds packed the huge tents to their very capacity on the first day. The admission fee of 10 cents, which was a special reduction, also served as a magnet. Manager Garrett stated that the show this season was one of the best he ever put out, and that they would undoubtedly have a big year.
Chas. (Kid) Koster, for the past twelve seasons special opposition agent for the Buffalo Bill, Ringling Bros. and Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows, is at present doing some special billing for the Shubert Theatre, Kansas City, Mo.
Bert Cole, of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show, was a visitor at the Hippodrome, New York, last week. He went down in the tank in the bell for twenty minutes. He left Tuesday, April __, for Peru, Ind., for the opening of the show. His wife accompanied him.
George Adams and Steve Miaco are principal clowns with the indoor circus at the Hippodrome, Cleveland, O.
John Robinson's Ten Big Shows car left Circuleville, O., Saturday, April 17.
Gollmar Bros. No. 1 car leaves Baraboo, Wis., Saturday, April 24, two weeks ahead.
Notes from Lorenzo & Maurer's Shows. Lorenzo & Maurer will open their season May 8, at Womelsdorf, Pa. Manager Chas. Lorenzo has the show nicely organized, not only with circus acts, but with up-to-date vaudeville as well, and will include the following performers: Walter Harter, high wire and balancing trapeze; Mr. and Mrs. Carl Robinson, musical comedy team; Max Howard, tramp juggler and all round gymnast . . . Mr. and Mrs. Harry Decker, sketch; Sig. Foleigh, boneless wonder; the San-Sotas, aerialists. Concert: Prof. C. M. Riehl, moving pictures and illustrated songs; Sid. Hamton, ventriloquist and marionettes, and Minne Leach, vocalist. Prof. Rolland Weinsert is the leader of ban, with the following musicians: Eugene Johnson, Geo. W. Parmtier, ___, John Schmick, Walter Babcock and Al. Ditrick. Josh King will have charge of canvas, with five assistants . . .
Howard Damon Australian R. R. Circus will open in Geneva, O., Thursday, April 29. Fred G. Milliken, of Eastport, Me., has been engaged as contractor, and joined the show April 10, at winter quarters.
New York Clipper, May 1, 1909, p. 310. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Ringling Show news. The clown band for the street parade of Ringling Bros.' Circus is made up of Chas. Smith, leader and first cornet; Fred Jenks, second cornet; John Slater, baritone; Al. Miaco, tuba; Billy Rice, slide trombone; Carl Milvo, alto; Biggest Casino, of the Two Casinos, clarinet; Max Dillea, snare drum; Jim Spriggs, bass drum. The Mardo Trio are always getting up new ideas in comedy make-up. Tom Mardo loves to make Robedello up for his act. The McCree-Davenport Troupe do a jockey and carrying act. McCree, the male member, is a brother of ___ McCree, of "Dope Fiend" fame in vaudeville. John Mills, contortionist, who does a Joey with the Ringling Bros.' Circus, takes pride in that barber shop number. He stands in the rear of the ring just mixing the lather for fifteen minutes. The Three Livingstones, comedy bar act, have in preparation a new and startling comedy trick which will be show when the show is well on in the season. . . . The Dutch band number, done by Charles Smith, Two Casinos and Al. Miaco, brings a number of laughs at every show.
Campbell Bros.' Shows opened its season at Convention Hall, Kansas City, Mo., Saturday evening, April 17. The opening week was for the benefit of the K. C. Zoological Society, and good business was recorded. The equipment of the circus this season is in fine condition. It will take twenty-eight cars to carry everything, and two hundred and fifty head of horses and thirteen elephants are carried. The performers are: Orrin Hollis, Chas. Barnett, Pinkie Hollis, Berry and Hicks, A. Lind, Arthur Forbes, C. Lind, Nettie Lowanda, Linda Geal, Roy Austin, Wm. Nichols, Avallon Family, Berrie and Berrie, Renello, Morallis Troupe, Crandall Bros., Schmidt Bros., Hersley Bros., Lotha Bros., Hamilton Bros., and the Coe-Mizuno-Kukichi Japanese Troupe. The band is under the direction of Chas. A. Temple. The following is the executive staff: A. J. Campbell, manager; Ed. Campbell, treasurer; Fred Hatfield, secretary; A. Barkley, traffic manager; W. P. Campbell, advertising manager; J. C. O'Brian, legal adjuster; W. Bailey, equestrian director; F. W. McIntosh, press agent; ___ Gore, bandmaster; J. C. Marsh, lot superintendent.
Yankee Robinson notes. From every indication, when the Yankee Robinson Shows open in Des Moines on April __, it will far excel anything that has been put on heretofore by the Buchanan Bros. The new "big top" is 120 feet, with three __ foot middle pieces. The side show is a __, with two 40s; the menagerie tent is 70 foot, with four 30 foot middles. With new stock, wagons, acts and one hundred and fifty head of horses places the Yankee Robinson Shows as one of the best equipped shows in the West. The circus will carry four hundred people and will be represented by the following staffs: W. O. Tarkington, in advance as railroad contractor; Ralph Root, local contractor and press agent; W. H. Quintette will act as advertising manager, and will have in charge two cars with twenty-four billposters. The business staff includes: Col. Fred Buchanan, owner; C. W. Buchanan, manager; A. Root, treasurer; Frank Macart, legal adjuster; W. J. Sergel, press agent; A. Salvail, manager of side show; A. W. Crockett, manager privileges; Joe Kelly will manage the up-town wagon and privilege car.
The working staff consists of H. Kelly, steward; Lew Foster, superintendent; Art Eldridge, superintendent of stock; John Boyd, trainmaster; Orville Speer, chandelier boss; Frank Hogan, boss canvasman of the side show; Bart Kelly, charge of stable cars; George Jones will have charge of car porters, and Archie Webb will lead the band of twenty-six pieces. The seating capacity of the tent willb e 6,000, and everything is in readiness for the opening performance, which will be given as a benefit under the auspices of the Des Moines Police and Fire Department Benevolent Protective Association. The No. 1 advertising car left April 18, for Panora, Ia., the first stop out of Des Moines.
Chas. Hilderra has joined the Al. F. Wheeler Show for the season, presenting his contortion act and clowning.
Buffalo Bill's Wild West and Pawnee Bill's Far East opened at the Madison Square Garden Tuesday night, April 27, with all of the old features which have gone to give international fame, to this historic exhibition, and many new ones typifying the people and customs of the Far East. The Battle of Summit Springs, A Holiday at "__" Ranch, The Rough Riders of the World, Train Hold-Up by Indians, The Old Deadwood Coach, and the Attack on An Emigrant Train, are, of course, the features of the Wild West, with Col. Wm. F. Cody (Buffalo Bill) as the central figure. For the Far East an Oriental spectacle is presented, in which appear people of the Orient, who give their native dances and music, and give an object lesson as to their costumes and customs.
Features incidental to the performances are those given by Ray Thompson and his trained horses, Rossi's musical elephants, and a troupe of Arab acrobats. One of the most interesting and exciting features of the show is the football on horseback, in which a number of Indians and cowboys, on horseback, vie with each other to push an enormous ball over the goal. Johnny Baker is general equestrian director.
Welsh Brothers' opening. Good things run in 18s for the Welsh Brothers' Circus, this being their eighteenth season, and they inaugurated it with an eighteen act circus at their opening in Camden, N.J., April 24. It proved the biggest and best entertainment of its kind that ever played Camden in one ring. Director John T. Welsh had everything running smoothly form the show's opening matinee, which was to capacity. The evening performance was S. R. O. Business manager Clinton Newton's generalship in seeing that the acts were put on promptly, and avoidance of any delays, also added to the pleasure of the show. The circus ran three solid hours, with vaudeville afterwards. Opening with a band concert by Carresica's Military Band, which appeared in new uniforms, the acts followed one another in rapid succession, and at some stages of the game there were three runs working at once.
Everything was new from tent to stake posts, and the helpers were all uniformed in neat khaki costumes. Four clowns kept the youngsters in a happy state. They included Harry Foster, Billy Murphy, Andy Thumser and Vincent Harig. A side show with a dozen attractions is also a feature. The 1909 production of Welsh Brothers must surely be granted high honors in the one ring circus world. A full list of the acts as they appeared follows: Display No. 1 - Magnificent Introductory Equine Spectacle, including Geo. A. Manchester's comedy and acting ponies; Display No. 2, The Clown's Carol, including Harry Foster and comic choristers; Display No. 3 - Colossal Canine Hippodrome, presented by John White Jr.; Display No. 4 - Conclave of Mid-Air Specialties, including Adele Leon, Geo. Whittle and Clo Farland; Display No. 5 - A Classy Comedy Entree, with capering, clever funsters; Display No. 6 - Vaudeville Oddities, including Herbert Platt, the eccentric Frog Man, and Andy Thumser, the comedy juggler; Display No. 7, Genuine Trained Animal Novelty, introducing the menage mule, by John White Jr.; Display No. 8, Feature Acrobatic and Equilibrium Endeavors, by the Three De Homans; Display No. 9 - Equestrian Goat and Canine Exploits, handled by John White Sr.; Display No. 10 - The Female Sandow, Mme. Yucca, introducing new and original physical culture demonstrations; Display No. 11 - "Lady Bess," trick horse, handled by John White Sr.; Display No. 12 - Novel Specialties, bounding wire sensation by George Whittie, high wire exploits by Prince Tonko Tishi; Display No. 13 - Grand Comic Divertissement, "Pete Jenkins," the rube from Bucksport; Display No. 14, High Class Aerialistic Stars, including the Aerial Leons and Clo Farland; Display No. 15, Royal Court Entertainers, Prince Tonko Tishi, in intricate pedal manipulations; Display No. 16 - Duo of Trick Donkeys, handled by Denny Mack; Disply No. 17 - Sensational Mid-Air Scene, introducing Three De Homans; Display No. 18 - Prof. John White's Colossal Congress, with the funny trick mule. A grand concert and latter day minstrel show takes place directly after the big show is finished.
C. I. Norris in Business for Himself. C. I. Norris writes from Santa Cruz, March 16: "I want to announce that I, C. I. Norris, once owner of Norris & Rowe's Circus, have severed all connections with said circus and R. S. Rowe. I am again in business for myself and am on the road, sole owner of Norris Bros. Trained Animal Show."
Coco Herbert to Get Back Into the "Game." Coco Herbert, for years principal clown with Barnum & Bailey's and Sells Bros.' Circus, will return to the circus business this season, and will place on the road a two car show. This will be his first appearance under the white tents since the death of his wife.
James D. De Wolfe has resigned as press representative of the Keith & Proctor Theatres of New York, to join the press department of the Ringling Bros. Circus.
John Robinson's Ten Big Shows have changed the date of opening. They visit Norwood, O., in June, and start out at Circleville, O., May 1.
J. Henry Rice will be general agent of the Frank A. Robbins' Circus; Wm. Sands, manager car No. 1; Maurice Taylor, charge of car No. 2.
Captain Snider, equestrian director and superintendent of the Al. F. Wheeler's Shows, is doing well with his talking horse, also with his bears, dogs, goats, monkeys, and well as with his handling of the "untamable" lion, "Spitfire."
The Washburn Shows, under J. W. Brownlee's management, will open the season at Bound Brook, N.J., April 28.
Burk's Combined Shows, C. E. Beyerle, proprietor; Fred R. Pilsher, manager, and Harry ___, general agent, opened the tenting season at Guthrie, Okla., with two performances, to turn-away business. The show is now in its seventh week and business continues exceptionally good, in spite of the fact that the show is experiencing some very disagreeable weather - wind, rain or snow. After a few more stands in Oklahoma the show will head East, and will try not to overlook any of the good ones.
Our feature parade lines up as follows: C. E. Beyerle, mounted upon "Big Black Diamond," leads the procession, followed by four buglers, two large American flags, Mrs. C. E. Beyerle, in the Standhope, driving her team of spotted Arabians; drum majors, jugglers, Burk's Concert Band, direction of ?. R. Pilcher; cages and tableaux wagons. Section No. 2 is under second band leadership of Prof. Norburg, and includes Harry Phillips and his trained ponies, Al. Canfield, in the Mutombile; the Stead Sisters, mounted; Ralph Noble and his old friend, "Mule Maude." Section No. 3 includes: Continental Band, Tommy Rean and his Merry Mirth Makers, Colonel Sawyer, with his troupe of great Dane dogs; the De Espa Family, acrobats and aerial performers, and Morris and Earnest, in their funny old rube wagon.
Roster: C. E. Beyerle, F. R. Pilcher, Harry Busenbark, G. B. Adams, ___, Jno. Corey, Al. Canfield, A. C. Cook Gomer Davies, Thos. Dean, Ernest De Espa, Maurice De Espa, Agnas De Espa, Mrs. C. E. Beyerle, Mrs. Jennie Thresham, Clair Stead, Edna Stead, Earl Gore, Jessie Horton, Mack Duggins, Harry Jarrette, C. L. Jackson, G. R. Kent, E. G. Lang, E. P. McCann, Maurice Brothers, Mooney Gus, Harry Niles, Ralph Noble, C. P. Parker, Harry Phillips, E. Pence, Will Porter, F. C. Ream, D. C. Reese, Forest Reeder, Chas. Strong, Ed. Sullivan, T. Thompson, B. P. Humphrey, Logan Venters, Fred Bell, Bill ___, Lee Abbott, Robt. Harris, G. W. Bishop, Chas. Johnson.
F. W. Blasser, manager of the side show with Oscar Lowande's Bay State Shows, has engaged the following for the coming season: Anna Roberts, lady with hair twelve feet long; Frank, broom king; Bright Eyes, Indian snake charmer; Mlle. Azelda, lady whittler; Rogers, Punch and Judy; Mosher's box act; Willie Vernell, magician; Mascot, rubber skin dog; Kenton's poodles, twelve in number. F. W. Blasser is manager; W. Roberts, ticket seller. Our canvas is new and our front will have six banners, 12x20.
Charles Bernard will be located, after May 1, in Suite 909, Rector Building, Chicago, where the Associated Billposters and Distributors' headquarters and his billposters' supply department will occupy the entire suite.
William J. Gilman was in Portland, Ore., last week, looking after the contracting of the Norris & Rowe Circus, which shows there May 3, 4.
New York Clipper, May 8, 1909, pp. 335, 343. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Sells-Floto Show, which has been on the road for several weeks, includes many well known performers, as will be seen by the programme given in this article.
Display No. 1 - Grand tournament. Display No. 2 - Rhoda Royal Black Horse Hussars, equestrian novelty; Rhoda Royal Horses, fancy manoeuvres. Display No. 3 - Paul Blanchard, contortionist; Genaro and Theol, contortionists; Mlle. Edna, contortionist. Display No. 4 - Sells-Floto performing elephants, in two troupes, handled by Chris. Seits and George Rollex.
Display No. 5 - The Rooneys, equestrians; clowns on track and stage; Flora Bedini and Myra Meers, equestriennes. Display No. 6 - Armour six horse team. Display No. 7 - Leaping contest, with Chad Werts, double somersault leaper. Display No. 8 - Bartik Russian Cossack Troupe, dancers. Display No. 9 - Fllet Troupe, aerial bars; Ellison's Troupe, aerial bars.
Display No. 10 - Three Bascheita Bros., head balancing. Display No. 11 - An Equire act (with four horses), Walter C. Sharp; Rhoda Royal Troupe of horses, Georbe Brown and comedy dog, equine act with John Carroll. Display No. 12 - The Four Kellys, wire performers; Claude M. Roose, tight wire; the Nelson Sisters, wire walkers. Display No. 13 - Billy Melrose, somersault rifer; John Rooney, somersault rider.
Display No. 14 - Minerva Sisters, aerialists; Ellert Sisters, aerialists. Display No. 15 - The Rhoda Royal Troupe of High School Horses, ridden and handled by Carrie ___; Lou King, Nellie McBride, Fannie Johnson, John Carroll, Tilly Bartik, Nellie Carroll, Clara Ruel, Mlle. Sora, Miss Scott. Display No. 16 - Ellert Sisters, double trapeze; May Scott, aerial ladder; Nelson Sisters, double trapeze.
Display No. 17 - The Nelson Family (nine), acrobats. Display No. 18 - Billy Melrose and Myra Meers, equestrians; clowns on stage and track, the Riding Rooneys, equestrian. Display No. 19 - The Five Flying Nelsons, flying trapeze. Display No. 20 - Phil Darling and trick mule; a clown number by Billy Bounce, assisted by Fred Delmont, Lou Moore, Dan Riley, ___ Newport, Fyfret Venetta; Shorty Maynard and mule.
Hippodrome races, tamden race, Walter and Sharp, and Mlle. Sora; ladies' flat race, Miss Scott, Miss King, Clara Ruel, Nellie Carroll; ponies with monkey riders. Gentlemen's jockey race, Eddie Nemo, Dick ___, Mike Mitchell. Roman Standing, Walter Sharp, Austin King, Thomas Dailey. International race, cowgirl, cowboy, Indian, Cossack. Clowns on mules, race between Shetland pony and horse. Chariots., John Carroll, Mlle. Sora. Eva Bartik, soprano singer. Rhoda Royal is the director of performance and the military band is led by Park Prentis.
The Miller Bros.' 101 Ranch Wild West Show has been on the road some time, and is now running like clockwork. That it is an up-to-date show in every respect will be seen by the programme, given below:
Display No. 1 - Gala Introduction, entry and review, led by Joseph C. Miller, president of 101 Ranch, and Zach T. Miller, arenic director; cowboys, Indians, Mexicans, Cossacks, Mabel Miller and cowgirld, W. H. Malaley, Tom ?. Mix, flag bearers. Display No. 2 - The Historic pony express rider, relay exhibition. Display No. 3 - The hold-up of a stage coach. Display No. 4 - Indian dances.
Display No. 5 - Pastimes of the 101 Ranch, riding. Display No. 6 - Prairie dance on horses. Display No. 7 - Wrestling of man a and steer. Display No. 8 - Sharpshooting shotgun exhibition, by Princess Chan-??-ka-wea, of the Sioux Indians. Display No. 9 - Equestrian exploits. Display No. 10 - Russian Cossack exhibition, led by Prince Lucca. Display No. 11 - Lariat throwing.
Display No. 12 - Taking of a horse theif on the prairie. Display No. 13 - Roping and riding wild steers. Display No. 14 - Race between cowboy, cowgirl and Indian. Display No. 15 - Prairie buffalo chase. Display No. 16 - Riding bucking horses by cowboys and cowgirls. Display No. 17 - Reproduction of the massacre of Pat Hennessey and party.
Dan Robinson's Shows Open. The Robinson Amusement Co., the Cincinnati enterprise, opened its season at Norwood, O., May 1, providing the carnival features of the twenty-first birthday celebration of the Magic City of Ohio.
The roster of officials includes: Dan R. Robinson, manager; Charles Harkinson, advance representative . . . Ben Cook, in charge of advertising, with three assistants; Tom Wilson, parades and publicity; Jack Rhodes, master of transportation; Oma Kider, electrician, with three assistants; Johnnie Conners, in charge of fronts; Wm. Mackey, artist, and Jack Wilson, boss canvasman.
The attractions include: Mundy's trained wild animals, Backman's glass blowers, talking pictures, Far East, La Rose electric fountain, human laundry, crazy house, ___ Minstrels, Tiny Mite, Jumbo, big snake; carrousel, Ferris wheel, unknown, illusions and Buckeye Belles. There are five free attractions, viz.: Dare Devil Myers, ___ and Paul, Princess Tetu, Iola, the girl that sings with the band, and Royal Italian Band.
Sam Fisher, aerialist, is en route this season with the Al. F. Wheeler Show, this being Mr. Fisher's second season with this show. He reports meeting with great success with his sensational flying ring and trapeze act, and combination revolving ladder act.
Frank Kotaro, Japanese foot juggler and wire walker, is with the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows, presenting his two novel specialities in the big show, and reports meeting with great success. Mr. Kotaro has the distinction of being one of the cleverest foot jugglers and barrel kickers in the business, and is booked solid for several seasons to come.
Al. F. Wheeler's Model Shows. After months of careful preparations in all departments, under the watchful eyes of Al. F. Wheeler, proprietor and manager, assisted by Adam Gillespie, assistant manager, and Capt. Snider, superintendent of menagerie, the "New Model" opened on schedule time, April 17, at Oxford, Pa., where, by the way, Mr. Wheeler has purchased a beautiful residence.
From the time the parade left the grounds until "all over" was sounded after the concert, things ran as smoothly as a lawyer's tongue. The outfit is all new from stakes to bale ring. The wagons are all painted light green and gold, and the show is pronounced by all the neatest wagon show on the road. When Mr. Wheeler made the opening the lot was packed, and his straightforward opening number convinced them that the show from the front door to back was "on the square," no graft of any kind being permitted.
The side show ticket boxes were besieged, and it kept the ticket sellers busy. The side show , under the capable management of Will T. Miller, is the strongest the New Model has ever carried, principal features in this department being: Mlle. Claire, second sight; Mlle. Cole, snake enchantress; Russell, mechanical wonder; Prof. Miller, magic and Punch; Maud Harvey, fire queen, and the feature, "Spitfire," untamable lion, handled by Capt. Snider. Side show ticket sellers: Jerry Johnson and Ben Clark.
The herd of camels shared honors with the monkey cage. The trained bears, "Teddy and Nelly," pleased the little folks. But the feature act of Capt. Snider and the untamable lion "Spitfire," made them hold their breath, and after a ten minutes' battle the captain entered the cage and, after a hairbreadth escape from being clawed, made his escape. He received a good hand for his work.
The big show is the strongest Mr. Wheeler has ever carried. The opening spectacle, "Queen of Nations," introducing an eight horse drill by all dapple grays, was well received. Then followed clown song by America's youngest clown, Al. F. Wheeler Jr. Performers include: Katoro Japanese Troupe, Chas. Hilderra, contortion act; Capt. Snider and the educated horse, "Spot"; hurdle mule, "Cyclone," and the funny Dutchman, Wm. Trout; Madame Carletta, Japanese ladder and perch; the Flying Fishers and the clown assistant, Buckskin Donk, and clown, etry, with all new and novel antics; Wheeler's performing dogs, menage horse, "Don," riden by Miss Hamilton; Chas. Gibson, balancing trapeze; riding dog, "Dandy," educated pony, and "He-Haw Maud," "Whoa January," and a high diving dog; Kataro Japanese wire walker; revolving ladder and the wonderful double trapeze of the McGinleys, Lotta and Ed, assisted by the only dog in the world doing a property man's work.
A concert orchestra of seven pieces is carried, and others are Fred Blinkermao, songs and stories; Wheeler Children, Col. ?. Jr., and Leland, singers, dancers and musicians; Capt. Snider's performing bears, Hamilton Family, concert band; Bell and Taylor, "tangle talk," Dutch comedians; Revo Sisters, singers and dancers; Capt. Snider's trained goats.
Mr. Wheeler is carrying two bands this season, the first under the direction of Adam Gillespie, with Al. F. Wheeler Jr., leader. Gus Berry, "Old Reliable," has the cook house; George Wood, the big top; Tom Sanderson, ___ Weyer, lights; Ed. H. Bell, refreshment stands, etc. We are playing a great many repeat towns to wonderful business, when the terrible weather is taken into consideration. But then rain, wind or mud has no effect on the "New Model," as Mr. Wheeler is surrounded by "troupers." We look for a long season. So far New Jersey has treated us well. Mr. Wheeler's motto is: "Watch us grow."
Annie Oakley, the well known woman sharpshooter, pleased a crowd of Altoona sportsmen and others at the Altoona (Pa.) Rod and Gun Club grounds at ___, Wednesday afternoon, April 28. The exhibition was given under the auspices of Wolf Brothers, sporting goods dealers, and was a complete success. The day was an ideal one for shooting, and it is doubtful if Miss Oakley ever gave a more interesting or better exhibition of her remarkable skill. It included shooting with the rifle, revolver and shot gun. F. E. Butler, Miss Oakley's manager, informs us that a Pittsburg syndicate will place her at the head of a Wild West and Hippodrome Show in 1910.
Harry Goodman, a nephew of Colonel Cody, was thrown from his horse Friday afternoon, April 30, at Madison Square Garden, in the horseback football game, which is a part of the show. His leg was broken and he was taken to the New York Hospital. Mr. Goodman is one of the best riders with the show, and for fifteen years he has been with Colonel Cody. During the game between Indians and cowboys, before Goodman was hurt, three of the players were thrown. Harry Beebe, on of the bucking horse riders, was also thrown, and suffered a sprained ankle.
Ringling Show notes. The parade in Brooklyn was a big hit, and the streets were lined with thousands of prospective show visitors. Despite the weather, which was dished up in the shape of rain, for four days the attendance was very good. The lot at Third Street and Fourth Avenue, right opposite the ball grounds, is hard bottom, and no inconvenience was caused to the show people by the heavy downpour. The tents were struck in time to get to Philadelphia, where the show is spending this week. Every body is well with the show, and the doctor has not yet been obliged to unlimber the medicine chest. The side show, under Lew Graham's direction, is in full session at every performance.
The Gollmar Bros.' Shows open at Baraboo, Wis., Saturday, May 8, for the season. They will have twenty-eight cars.
Frank Kelly informs us that he will again place a band with the Howard Starrett Society Circus, beginning May 3, at the old Howard Grounds, in Brooklyn.
Herbert, "The Frog Man," who has just concluded seventy consecutive weeks in vaudeville, has been signed for the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show.
Buffalo Bill's Wild West and Pawnee Bill's Far East auspicious opening of this combination in New York. . . . The real thriller of the show is furnished by Frenzieo, who makes a leap, head first, from one of the iron girders at the dome of the Garden, and lands on his chest on a chute three feet wide, which is about thirty-five feet below him and more than twenty away. Sliding down this chute he is shot, on its upward turn, to an erect position, and he lands safely on his feet in the arena. . . .
Little Buster Gardner, four years old, son of Frank Gardner, ring and slack wire performer, died in Hunnewell, Mo., on April 23, from whooping cough. The youngster did acrobatic work. The remains were shipped to St. Louis, Mo., for interment.
New York Clipper, May 15, 1909, p. 362. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Frank A. Robbins Shows opened its twenty-ninth annual season at Jersey City, N.J., on Wednesday afternoon, April 28, to a good house, and at the evening performance standing room only was the order until 7:40, when treasurer Farrel closed the ticket wagon, turning hundred away. Jersey City is Mr. Robbins' home town, and the show winters there. On the second day snow fell with the fury of a winter blizzard. Charcoal fires were lighted in the side show, dressing room and in the big top. The "governor" sat in the front door with his winter coat turned up, and Mrs. Robbins sat at his side with a new Spring basket hat and furs, making a unique picture for the Jersey City circus day, and it is conceded that the Robbins show can boast of having the unique distinction of being the only show playing to two crowded tents on April 29.
Opening performance - Popular concert by Professor Nasella's Twenty-four Piece Royal Italian Band. Display No. 1 - Grand spectacular tournament, presenting a brilliant scene of pomp and splendor of the ancient Egyptians. Display No. 2 - The performing elephant, Teddy, in very clever and amusing feats. Display No. 3 - The Rose Edyth Troupe of fifteen ladies, presenting the directoire ballet and the golden march, with Mlle. Rose Edyth as premiere danseuse. Display No. 4 - Ring No. 1: America's greatest rider, Miss Hocum; Ring No. 2: Miss Mart, on the hippodrome track, and a troupe of funny clowns, presenting Teddy's return from Africa. Display No. 5 - Clown song by America's greatest lady clown, May Koster. Display No. 6 - Ring No. 1: Slack wire walking, by Ray Dee; Ring No. 2: An odd and interesting tight wire act, by Bessie Markell. Display No. 7 - Ring No. 1: Hurdle act, by Fred Lowrie; Ring No. 2: Hurdle act, by Jas. Lowrie, a clown number. Display No. 8 - Four excellent contortion acts, Ring No. 1: Inman; stage: the Miaco Sisters; Ring No. 2: Ray Dee. Display No. 9 - Ring No. 1: Duke, a high school horse, presented by its trainer, La Belle Clark; Ring No. 2 - Menage act, by Miss Graham; many clown acrobats and animal numbers make this number a lively one. Display No. 10 - Ring No. 1: the Morrey Brothers, in feat posturing; Ring No. 2: the Gregory Troupe, the greatest family of acrobats in the world. Display No. 11: Grand spectacular march by the Amazonians (sixteen in all). Display No. 12 - Ring No. 1: Champion principal bareback somersault equestrian act, by ?. Hocum; Ring No. 2: Unrivaled bareback riding act, with somersault from the back of one running horse to that of another, by J. Raiton. Display No. 13 - Ring No. 1: Kitsi ___'s Troupe of Imperial Japanese; Ring No. 3: Charles Gergor, barrel crossing table. Display No. 14 - Ring No. 1: Flying rings, May Allen; stage, flying rings, Florence Foster. Display No. 16 - A tight wire act that excels in beauty, by the Famous Parrel Family. Display No. 17 - Ring No. 1: A troupe of performing ponies, presented for the first time in America by Charles Garvet; Ring No. 2: Frazer's wonderful stallions; clowns, farewell number. Display No. 18 - "Salvo's Leap to the Moon," the most thrilling act in the world, by Dare Devile Herr.
Executive roster: Frank A. Robbins, president and general manager; Edward Holland, manager; Clarance W. Farrel, treasurer and secretary; George W. Ross, legal adjuster; Joseph H. Hughes, press agent; John H. Rice, general agent; William Sands, advance press agent and the manager; Frank Higgins, stenographer; Roy Tibbets, assistant legal adjuster; John Keenan, reserved seat ticket seller; James Jordan, reserved seat ticket seller; William Gregory, equestrian director; Gus Fairbanks, twenty-four hour agent; Fred Markell, privilege car manager; Paul (Doc) Christnon, boss canvasman; John Groves, boss hostler; John Higgins, boss chandelier man; Albert Chambers, master of transportation; Blackie Fagon, assistant boss canvasman; Slim Haley, assistant boss canvasman; George W. Gates, boss property man; T. Gates, assistant boss property man.
Side show roster: H. Hall, manager; J. Gordon and R. Brown, ticket sellers; Chas. Lowrie, door tender; Marie De Vere, sword swallower; H. Hall and wife, in illusions; Mrs. Brown, snake charmer; Prof. Rursha, handcuff king; Edward Marks, Punch and Judy; dancing girls, May Christnon and Marie De Vere.
Ringling Show notes. The show arrived in Philadelphia Sunday morning, May 2, and was greeted by thousands of people, who watched the erection of the large tents and the moving of the show from the cars to the lot with genuine interest. The show took Philadelphia by storm. The grand parade was pronounced to be the finest that ever passed through the streets of the Quaker City, which were crowded the entire route. Monday afternoon and night business was big, and every night thereafter crowds were turned away.
The boys have the baseball fever, and every fine day finds them playing on the lot. They expect to hae a good team this season. Philadelphia is the home town of Geo. Hartzell, and Thursday night, May _, was Elk's night, and nearly six hundred Elks of Philadelphia Lodge No. 2 came in a body to welcome . . . Two sections were elaborately decorated in white and purple bunting and flags, and the lodge presented Mr. Hartzell with a basket of flowers so large that two members could hardly carry it. . . . Charlie Smith is making quite a hit with his swinging stunt. Al. White has them guessing with his female make-up. . . .
The Yankee Robinson Shows opened their season Thursday afternoon, April 29. The opening shows were given for the benefit of the Des Moines Fire Department and the ___ Pension Fund . . . The parade, featured the opening date, was very attractive, and was a good advertisement for the show. The star act of the Yankee Robinson Shows was the sensational feat of John Ruel, the young Chicagoan, who gave for the first time the act in which he turned a double somersault in midair on a bicycle. ___, the big, tan colored bear with the circus broke from her cage in Des Moines during the performance and created a reign of terror over the rest of the menagerie and the attaches. She was finally shot by the attendants, seventeen bullets lodging in her body. The circus was a great success from every standpoint, and after the Des Moines engagement will start out for the long summer tour through the Northern States and then to Canada. The show expects to strike Seattle before the exposition opens.
Barnum & Bailey notes. After leaving Chicago the big show played Champaign, Ill., to big business, but encountered very bad weather. Bloomington and Springfield followed, and business was good, but the weather was so cold it was impossible for the performers to do their work properly. During the show in Champaign Marie Elzer got a very bad fall while riding Roman standing races. The horses came uncoupled and she fell to the ground, hurting the back of her head. She worked the night show, however. Mr. Sully, of the Four Comrades, sprained his ankle in Bloomington, while doing their acrobatic act, which is making a big hit with the B. & B. Circus. Our cookhouse this year is good, and Mr. Henry deserves great credit for getting up such good meals. Our big band is under the direction of Frederick ___, and is, without doubt, one of the best circus bands in the country. Gus Kraft has been ill at his home for the past week, but is expected back to the show some time this week. Harry Higgins joined the show April __, while we were in Bloomington. Higgins is a good fellow, and we all hope that he stays all season.
New York Clipper, May 22, 1909, pp. 378, 390. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Harry Orville, a showman, died at his home near Farmland, Ind., Saturday, April 24, from asthma of the heart, ageded fifty-one years. He started in the circus business as an acrobat and gymnast when but nine years of age, following that line of business until 1896, when he gave it up because of ill health, and went into vaudeville, playing the leading theatres. On Jan. 22 last he canceled all work and returned home, not being able to finish his engagements. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Ruth Orville; a son, Frank, aged twenty-nine, and a daughter, Nena, age seven. Interment was in Woodlawn Cemetery, April 26.
John Eisler, a well known circus man, died in Belleview Hospital, Philadelphia, Pa., on May 8.
Lorenzo & Maurer open season. An ideal circus day, excellent business, and a smooth and finished performance were the three desirable features that fortune favord the Lorenzo & Maurer Pavilion Vaudeville Circus with at their opening at Womelsdorf, Pa., Saturday, May 8. Everything pertaining to the outfit is new, except the management. Following is the complete roster: Lorenzo & Maurer, sole owners; Chas. Lorenzo, manager; Chas. Maurer, assistant manager and ticket seller; __ Mills, general agent; ?. M. Riehl, ticket agent; Chas. Smalley, boss canvasman; Geo. W. Parmiter, band leader; Carl Robinson . . . Wm. Schmidt, Geo. Nelson, Al. Jordon, musicians; Albert Diltrick, leader of orchestra; Walter Harter, high wire free outside attraction . . . Mr. and Mrs. Harry Decker, sketch team; Max Howard, tramp juggler and comedy acrobat; Robinson and Upton, musical sketch; Sig. Lazaro, boneless wonder; Walter Harter, bounding wire and balancing trapeze; Harry Decker, singing and dancing comedian . . . Concert: Prof. G. M. Riehl, moving pictures and illustrated songs; Chas. Lorenzo, ventriloquist and marionettes; May Upton, vocalist. The culinary department is in charge of Mrs. Chas. Lorenzo and Mrs. Chas. Maurer, and the only complaint registered against the table is that it is too good. James Bard, of the Bard Bros., acrobats, was one of the many professional visitors who tendered their congratulations to manager Lorenzo on the auspicious opening of the show.
Notes from Welsh Bros.' Show. The finish of the third week of the present season finds the above show at Broad and Muyamensing Avenue, Philadelphia, with a succession of large crowds recorded in the wagon ledger. The weather continues cool, but the strong merit of the performances and exhibitions presented seem to be an incentive to draw large crowds. The programmer is now running smoothly, and it is the general verdict of all who have witnessed it that it is the biggest and best popular priced show ever presented in Philadelphia. The side show annex and privileges are also prospering, under the direction of George A. Manchester.
The Three De Homans, aerialists and acrobats; Chevalier George Whittie, the bounding wire king; Prof. John White's trained animal hippodrome, the Aerial Leons . . . Manchester's musical and acting ponies, John White Jr., comedy equestrian; Clo Farrell, aerialist; Andy Thumser, comique juggler; Vincent Harig, Harry Foster, John Murphy and Billy Leon, clowns, all continue to make good in the "big show." The concert is given by the following: Misses Burton and Primrose, John Murphy, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Foster, Andy Thumser, Eva Tendy, and the special attraction and feature, Madame Yucca, surnamed the "Female Sandow." The side show annex contain: __ Bowen, Capt. Partridge, Eleanor Grace, Mme. Irving, Miss Lawrence, Butler's Alabama Minstrels, Mysterious Huntley, George H. Irving, manager, and the Royal Venetian Brass Band.
The bosses include: George Lawrence, superintendent; Josh Bailey, boss canvasman; Howard Martin, manager culinary department; J. H. Zellers, boss property man, and George Denella, master of transportation. Executive staff: Welsh Brothers' Amusement Co. (inc.), owners; John T. Welsh, general manager; Clinton Newton, business manager; J. P. McCormick, big show ticket wagon; Walter De Homan, amusement director; George B. Beckley, agent, and Prof. Philip Carresica, musical conductor.
It has been definitely decided to exhibit in Philadelphia all summer, the season extending late into October. Richard Hemmings, the oldest living retired circus manager of this country, was a distinguished guest of manager Welsh several days last week. "The Grand Old Man" is still hale and hearty, and takes a keen interest in circus affaird.
Notes from the Barnum & Bailey Circus. While showing in St. Louis, Mo., from May 3 to 8, we had some very fine weather and also did big business - so big, in fact, that we turned them away every night until our last night there, and would have packed them in, only it rained all day. Several of the clowns worked with boots on. During last week Al. Olifan, of the Three Olifans, was called back to Chicago to see his wife, who is undergoing a very serious surgical operation. We expect him back to the show this week. Mr. Sully was struck on the nose recently, while clowning on the track, and had four stitches taken in the wound. Tony Diko sprained his ankle while doing his act at Evansville, Ind., May 13. Of course, the date of the month had nothing to do with the accident. This is about all the accidents we have had in the last few days. There are with the show this year a very good collection of clowns, and they are a lot of real funny fellows.
The Three Corellis joined the show after playing the New York engagement with the Ringling Show. The White Rats with the B. & B. Show, and some White Rats who were playing in the St. Louis theatres, held a scamper, and everybody had a good time. There was plent of good singing. Harry Burns, of the Two Jeromes, was called upon to sing a song and the lights went out. While showing at Danville, Ill., May 11, many good things were said about the old J. H. La Pearl Circus, as Danville was the winter quarters of that show. At night, after our show was out, there was a celebration given in remembrance of the La Pearl Show. Here's hoping that there will soon be another show by the name of La Pearl.
Notes from Ringling Brothers' World's Greatest Shows. Show is doing a record breaking business. During our short stay in Washington, D.C., we had Mrs. Wm. H. Taft and the children of the White House as part of our audience at two of the performances, special boxes being erected for them. Mrs. Davis was thrown from her horse during the races, but was not hurt very much. The Ringling ball teams played their first game of ball May 14, in Wilmington, Del. The No. 1 team beat the No. 2 team, 4 to 2. Geo. Hartzell is manager of No. 1, and Fred Jenks manager of No. 2. Percy and Vera Clark had a fall, 14, while doing their carrying act. Neither was seriously hurt. May 14 was the first day stand of the season. We have a fine grassy lot in Wilmington, and fine weather, and the folks of Ringlingville are all feeling fine. The pinochle players are very busy, also the checker fiends. The Jeff Club has Frank Schadle for the president. Mr. and Mrs. Leon Harto stopped off at Baltimore to see the show. They have seen all the big ones, and pronounce this the World's Greatest. They are on their way to join the Buffalo Bill Show.
Washburn Show notes. Business has been exceptionally good, in spite of rain, snow, cold weather and opposition. Roster as follows: J. W. Brownlee, manager; Geo. Crabtree, treasurer; Thomas Wark, general agent; John Daims, equestrian director; performers in big show - John D'Alma's ponies, dogs and monkeys, Alex Brisson, Aerial Millers, Daisy Vardon, Cleo Herdanso . . . Russell Bros., Downing Bros., French Sisters, Mabel Wentworth, the Great Vardman, Wm. Lampe, Swift and Buckley, and Prof. ___'s Band. Side show: H. B. Soldena, manager; W. H. Sharpe and Jack Worth, ticket sellers; Oliva, Herbert French, Zeno, Ida Rathburn, Mons. De Vero, Primrose and Buckley, Georgia Minstrels and Prof. Therriert's Band.
Cole Bros.' Circus suffers accident. At Corry, Pa., on May 15, just before the evening performance of Cole Bros.' Circus, a sudden gust of wind caught the main top, and in a moment had leveled the canvas to the ground. There was an audience of 1,000 seated in the enclosure, listening to the band concert when the seats collapsed and all were thrown in a struggling heap on the ground, with tent, poles and people on them. Every doctor in town was called with ambulances, and four injured people were hurried to the hospital. Scores suffered minor hurts and many fainted. The loss of personal property was large, and the brand new circus top was slashed and torn in places. Soft ground is the alleged cause of the blowdonw. M. J. Downs will ill in his car, and it is said he might have prevented the accident had he been present. The show opened in Oil City, Monday, May 10, as billed.
The Edward Denton "Sunny South" Co. will open its summer season on Monday, May 24, as an annex of the Imperial Circus and Exposition of Wonders. The members: Edward Denton, proprietor; Mrs. Annie Danton, treasurer; Josephine Hall, wardrobe mistress; Holland Patton, boss canvasman; Robert James, props; the Roval Musican Quintette (Sam McFadden, Richard McPherson, Chas. Wells, William Kelley and Lawrence Costner), Blanche Kelley, George James, Frank Brown, Tom Grason, Hattie Sweet, Katie Jones, Dora Tice, Dell Lewis and Gertrude Williams. The company is booked solid for twenty-five weeks, and will use a 30x50 canvas top, with a fine front. They will open at Arlington, N.J., May 24.
Bert Silver Show notes. On account of a snow storm, we did not open May 8, as called, but all hands are at headquarters, and we open at Crystal, Saturday evening, May 15, with what we consider one of the best equipped shows as to outfit and performers, a twelve wagon show, ever put on the road. We carry thirty-five people and twenty-five head of horses.
Zack T. Miller, one of the three brothers who direct the 101 Ranch Wild West Show, of Bliss, Okla., is in personal charge of the arenic performance. The show plays at Cincinnati, O., two days.
Col. M. Welsh will put out a one ring circus and wagon show shortly, to play around Pittsburg, Pa., and nearby territory. Everything will be new.
E. C. Monce, one of the best known advance agents in the circus business, has been advanced by R. M. Harvey, general agent of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows, to the important position of full charge of a very strong opposition brigade with that show.
The Three Corellis left New York on April 24, at the conclusion of the New York engagement of the Ringling Circus, to join the Barnum & Bailey Circus in Chicago, at the Coliseum. The act is now working on the stage, and is laughing hit with the show.
Miller Bros.' 101 Ranch had two turnaways at Cincinnati, O., May 10 and 11, during the night performances.
An unsigned communication has reached us stating that W. Al. White, of the Ringling Show, mourns the loss of his father, John S. White, who died hat his home, Brighton, Ia., on May 7, from dropsy. Interment was on Saturday, May 8, in the Brighton Cemetery.
Geo. S. Cole has been released from his contract with Miller Bros. 101 Ranch Wild West. Mr. Cole has returned to John Robinson's Ten Big Shows, with which he has been connected the last twelve years.
New York Clipper, May 29, 1909, pp. 403, 404. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows. The combination of talent enlisted under the banner of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows, is drawing the crowds. Many new and startling acts are included in their bill.
Display No. 1 - Sports of Rome and tournaments of old England. Display No. 2 - Congress of wild animals, under direction of John Heliott. Display No. 3 - The Kelleys, revolving pedestals; Delno Troupe, aerial; Tindy, bounding rope; Delnos, aerial; the Victorias, high wire. Display No. 4 - Cissie Lena, bareback riding; Dollie Julian, bareback riding; clowns' antics; lion and leopard rinding, direction Reuben Castang and Chas. Judge; clown antics; Bedini Sisters, bareback riding.
Display No. 5 - Miss Stickney, with pony and dog; Mary and Petroff, with dogs and donkey. Display No. 6 - The Mordollos, Risley; Borsini Troupe, rolling globes; Four Sisters Yelleromes, rolling globes. Display No. 7 - Reuben Castang, elephants; C. H. Sweeney, elephants; Phil Castang, tiger and elephant; Percy Phillips, elephants. Display No. 8 - Topical songs, by J. Rutherford and A. Borella.
Display No. 9 - Emara Donavan, flying rings; Cecilia Fortuna, trapeze; Anita Conners, aerial; Mlle. Kennard, rolling globes; Geo. Conners and Bros., ladder. Display No. 10 - Fred Ledgett and Dollie Julian, jockeys; clown antics; Bedini Family, equestrian. Display No. 11 - The Fultons, ladder perch; Hotura and Kowora, double perch; John Helliott, Polar Bears; G. Thaleros, zebras.
Display No. 12 - The Merodias, bicyclists; Varno and Yaldare, bicyclists. Display No. 13 - Ida Miaco and Robert Stickney, riding; Miss Conners and Miss Stickney, driving; Mme. Bedini and Miss Lancaster, high school equestrians; Cecelia Fortuna, riding; Joe Letchel and Maud Hayward, high school riding. Display No. 14 - Kamekicho and Kancho, risley; Trolley Car Trio, the De Kochs, acrobats; Four Deltons, acrobats; Japanese acrobats, Brothers Kennard, acrobats.
Display No. 15 - The Thaleros Troupe, ponies and dogs. Display No. 16 - Contorion work by Russell and De Verne, Frogman Herbert, Mlle. Azora, de Miaco and the Ploets-Lorellas. Display No. 17 - The Seven Lloyds, aerial. Display No. 18 - Comedy number, with comedy mule hurdles; Joe Leichel, and Everett Hart. The usual Hippodrome races conclude the show.
John Robinson's Ten Big Shows. The many startling acts and the usual circus features that make up the John Robinson Shows are attracting the crowds all along their route. The programme is given below:
Display No. 1 - Introductory pageant. Display No. 2 - Elephants, introduced by Dick Jones. Display No. 3 - Nanie Ashton, riding; Bessie Castello, riding; Edna Lavell, riding; clowns on track. Display No. 4 - Reno and Beyer, wire; L. M. Masher, contortion; Two De Bolien Bros., perch; Frank La Rose, iron jaws; C. Harriott, club juggling; La Belle, wire; Howard Troupe, ladder; Care Nelno, barrel jumping; Leach and Vance, wire; Hildina, contortion; the Renzettas, perch.
Display No. 5 - L. M. Walker, horse; Miss Van, liberty horses; Carl Nyguard, horses. Display No. 6 - Miss Howard, swing ladder; Miss La Pearl, flying rings; Gordon Oston, cloud swing; Flo La Quinlan, single traps; Williun Sisters, double web; Lingor Trio, ring and traps; Elton, balance traps; Miss Castello, trapeze; La Rose, flying rings; Stella Coyle, flying ladder. Display No. 7 - Clown grotesqueries. Display No. 8 - Warren Lincoln Travers, automobiles over body.
Display No. 9 - Miss Brown, menage; Carl Nyguard, stallion; Frank Walker, menage; Miss Hacket, high school riding; Sarah Hacket, stallion act. Display No. 10 - Three De Bolien Bros., acrobats; Charbino Bros., acrobats; Carl Nemo, balancing ladder; Two Renzettas; Salasar Bros., acrobats; De Forest Bros., contortionists; Three Gingor Bros., acrobats. Display No. 11 - James Lewis, mule riding; Sidney Rink, burlesque riding; Joe Walker, mule act. Display No. 12 - The Fools' Re-union. Display No. 13 - Prof. W. E. Winston's seals.
Display No. 14 - Hanna Duffy, rolling globe; Lash and Sterling, Spanish rings; Flo La Quinlin, flying rings; L. M. Masher, Roman rings; Frank Hamilton, barrel jumping; Fastelle Bros., Roman rings; Minerva Sisters, rolling globe. Display No. 15 - Castello Family, Three horse carrying; Gordon Orton, six horse riding; Hacket Sisters, two horse carrying. Display No. 16 - Howard Sisters, double trapeze; Chas. Castello, loop walking; Three ___ Bros., flying trapeze; Reno and Begar, double trapeze; Frank La Rose, teeth suspension; Lash and Sterling, double trapeze; Fastelle Bros., double trapeze. Display No. 17 - Capt. Horace Miltmore and cavalrymen. Display No. 18 - Various exhibits of the Wild West.
The Yankee Robinson Circus has been on the road some time, and is meeting with great success. Many novel features are included in the programme.
Display No. 1 - Grand tournament by the entire show. Display No. 2 - Clown songs by ___. Display No. 3 - Trapeze work by Mlle. Eta and aerial act by Emily Leask. Display No. 4 - Little Tom, the elephant. Display No. 5 - Japanese juggling by Hatsu and Barjarek and Wallen, equilibrists. Display No. 6 - Clowns. Display No. 7 - Robert ___, contortionist, and Fred Lasere.
Display No. 8 - William Wallet, bareback riding. Display No. 9 - Bishops Bros., double trapeze, and Oturia Family, Japanese. Display No. 10 - Tony, the elephant, and Major, Shetland pony. Display No. 11 - Wm. Van, juggling, and Hatsu, barrel juggling. Display No. 12 - Congress of acrobats. Display No. 13 - Menage horses.
Display No. 14 - Oturia Troupe, Japanese Troupe. Display No. 15 - Wm. Wallet, Engling jockey. Display No. 16 - Bishop Bros., revolving ladder. Display No. 17 - Frank St. John. Display No. 18 - Tournament of leapers, vaulters and long distance jumpers. Frank St. John is equestrian director, and Archie Webb is musical director.
Campbell Bros.' Circus. Business has been good with Campbell Bros.' Circus, and the show is run off like clockwork. A big list of eye openers is included in their roster.
Display No. 1 - Grand entree by company. Display No. 2 - Mr. and Mrs. Orrin Hollis, two horse carrying; Charles Barnett and Pinkie Hollis, two horse carrying. Display No. 3 - Leaping. Display No. 4 - Berre and Hicks, ladder; Mizuno-Kukicho Troupe, shoulder perches; A. Lind, A. Forbes and C. Lind, ladders; Display No. 5 - Linda Jeal, riding; clown entree; Nellie Lowande, riding.
Display No. 6 - Berre and Berre, wire; Avallon Family, wire; Lind Trio, wire. Display No. 7 - Campbell Bros.' elephants; Roy Austin, elephants; William Nichols, elephants. Display No. 8 - Crandall Bros., aerial; Avallon Sisters, aerial; Lotha Troupe, aerial; Hersley Bros., aerial. Display No. 9 - Morallis Troupe, horizontal bars; Renello, bicyclist; Schmidt Bros., bounding board.
Display No. 10 - Midair casting and tossing by Four Lamy Brothers and Three Lotha Bros. Display No. 12 - Orrin Hollis, bareback riding; Cecil Lowande, bareback riding. Display No. 13 - Arthur Forbes, A. Lind and Gus Lind, foot posturing; Coe and Cincoe, Japanese; Berre Sisters, teeth suspension; Hamilton Bros., barrel jumpers.
Display No. 14 - Charles Barnett and W. Wallace, in bareback mule riding. Display No. 15 - Acrobatic feats by Four Lamy Bros., Four Hersley Troupe, Avallon Family, Two Crandall Bros., Two Hamilton Bros., and Three Lotha Troupe. Display No. 16 - Renello the Great, bicycle somersault and leaping the gap. Display No. 17 - Hippodrome races.
Executive staff: A. G. Campbell, Ed. Campbell and Fred Hatfield, sole proprietors; A. G. Campbell, general agent; W. P. Campbell, manager advertising; H. H. Barkley, manager traffic; W. E. Bailey, equestrian director; F. W. McIntosh, press agent; J. C. O'Brien, legal adjuster; J. C. Marsh, superintendent lots; Dr. T. S. Crosby, surgeon.
The Gollmar Bros.' Shows have been doing big business, and everything is moving smoothly. Their programme includes many startling feats.
Display No. 1 - Introduction Pageant by Company. Display No. 2 - The Gathering of the Garlands. Display No. 3 - Zanton Bros., flying Spanish rings; the Lindemans, flying rings; Foster Bros., Roman rings. Display No. 4 - Siss Satterfield, riding; Mr. Potter, riding; Mr. Rooney, riding. Display No. 5 - Berty Noyes, clown elephant; Emery Stiles, elephants; Dan Prockett, elephants. Display No. 6 - Edna Marretta, bareback riding; clown antics; Carriea, bareback riding. Display No. 7 - Bobby Boyden, trapeze; Fostelle Bros., double trapeze; Beach and De Turk, aerial; Ernst Bros., double trapeze.
Display No. 8 - The Tasmanian Troupe, acrobats. Display No. 9 - The Lindeleys, swinging wire; Miss Kelley, rolling globe; Namanaz Bros., Japanese pastimes. Display No. 10 - George Carriea, bareback riding; clown antics; Chas. Rooney, bareback riding. Display No. 11 - Little Namba, contortion; Great Whetton, contortion; Bobby Boyden, contortion; Kinella, contortion; May Lindeman, contortion. Display No. 12 - The carrieattas, equestian; Satter Sisters, equestrian.
Display No. 13 - The Van Diemans, teeth suspension. Display No. 14 - Namba Japanese Troupe, acrobats. Display No. 15 - Nola Satterfield, high school riding; Chas. Rooney, performing horses. Display No. 16 - Kelly Bros., revolving ladders; Frances Keeley, swinging perch; De Alzor Bros., acrobats. Display No. 17 - Albert Rooney, mule riding, clown skating, clown antics; Jos. Potter, mule riding. Display No. 18 - The Flying Erustonians, aerial. Display No. 19 - Edna Marrietta, driving four horses; Chas. O'Neilly, four horse riding. Display No. 20 - Alden Potter, rough riding. The show closes with the usual Hippodrome races.
From Staats Bros.' Show. We opened our season May 15, at Tremont and Crotona Avenues, Bronx, New York, to the capacity of the tent. The following acts have signed for the season: Prof. Leroy and his trick pony, Major; Young and La Dell, comedy acrobats; Ed. Rehr [Behr?], horizontal bars; Williams and Vaile, contortionists; George Flanigan, slack wire wire and balancing act; Miss La Dell, ring contortion act; Prof. Barrow, single trapeze and slide; Harry Vaile, ring act; Charles Hopper, singing and talking clown, with five other clowns. Professor Stewart and a band of ten musicians furnish the music.
Circus license cut in half. The Board of Aldermen of Nashua, N.H., has passed an ordinance regulating the license fee for all kinds of amusements. The fee for circuses is $50, formerly the license was $100; theatres and moving picture houses, $50 a year, formerly the license was $1 a day. The licenses are granted by a board, consisting of the Mayor, City Marshal and City Clerk, Arthur L. Cyr, who is also clerk of the licensing board.
James Duval, clown, writes: "I am doing finely with the Campbell Bros.' Circus." Crandell Bros. report meeting with success with the Campbell Bros.' Show, in their acrobatic act, in which their dog, Trix, appears.
Hilderra and Fisher, aerial gymnasts, are meeting with considerable success with their comedy revolving ladder act and single specialties, with the Al. F. Wheeler Circus. Mr. Fisher recently received a letter from his wife, in Harrisburg, Pa., announcing the birth of a baby boy.
Harry Beebe, a cowboy, who came to New York City with the Buffalo Bill Show, died in Bellevue Hospital, this city, May 14. The doctors there have been unable to diagnose the malady which killed him. He was taken to Bellevue from the Putnam House, suffering from a wound in his foot. A horse had fallen on him during the performance. He quickly developed partial paralysis of the respiratory organs.
New York Clipper, June 5, 1909, p. 438. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Roster of Gollmar Bros.' Greatest American Shows. Chas. Gollmar, manager; B. F. Gollmar, treasurer; F. C. Gollmar, railroad contractor; W. S. Gollmar, equestrian director; Harry Wirtz, assistant equestrian director; Dr. F. E. Tryon, press representative; W. S. Grumby, assistant treasurer; T. J. Ford, adjuster; George Parsons, privileges; John White, charge of front door; Fred Seymore, commissary; George Wormold, boss of canvas; Charles Mack, assistant boss of canvas; Geo. Holland, boss hostler; Geo. Dougherty, assistant boss hostler; Steve Smyth, second assistant; Art. Boyd, chief chef; G. Warden, assistant chef.
Side show: Chas. Ball, manager; James Morris, assistant manager; Al. Mastiff, Punch and Judy; Jessie Clifton, magic; Nellie Clifford, sword swallowing act; Marie, snakes; James Morris, elastic skin man; Maley, needle eater; Mamie Webb, musical act; Donnie and Ella Fagan, songs and dances; Frank Webb, first bos; Doc Chapman, second box; Al. Martinius, third box. Fagan's Family Band of twenty-four pieces furnishes music for the annex.
Big show band: Dell Smith, director, with the following musicians - Ralph Palimeter, D. D. Hollinger, Ernest Gavin, A. A. Swanson, Burns McMillian, Kenneth Gavin, Karl Kuhlman, Harry Kinneticuit, Harry Magnus, W. E. Moser, Fred Junod, Guy Briggs, Fred Vandiveer, Fred Mozelman and Jack Jones.
Dressing room: Robt. Altman, boss props; Jack Sutton, Alden ___, Charlie Rooney, Harry Wirtz, Burt Smith, Geo. Kelley, D. W. Kelley, Garry Vanderbilt, Zanton Bros., Nambo Troupe (4), Wm. Linderman, Fostelle Bros., La Fayette Bros., the Wheltans, John Carriea, Fred Taylor, Ed. Carriea, George King, Bobby Boyd, Benton Burke, De Alzer Bros., Dan Kurelia, Burt Smith, Emstonian (3), Bert La Fayette, Beach and De Turk, George Lamar, ___, Tasmanian Troupe (5), Mrs. Jack Sutton, ___, Florence Sutton, Marie Sutton, Dora Sutton, Bessie Sutton, Nola Satterfield, Flossie Satterfield, Mrs. M. Carriea, Amelia Carriea, Mrs. D. W. Kelly, Edna Vanderbilt, Mrs. Whettan, Mrs. Clifton, Van Diemans, five ladies.
Menagerie: Emery Styles, boss animal man; Bart Noyes, assistant; W. McGuire, Louis Schaddler, Dan Prosser, J. W. Barry, Harry Jones, Alex. Lane, Arthur Bird and Joe Ashton.
Other people with the show: L. W. Marshall, Al. Jones, Harry Williams, C. W. Williams, master transportation; Tom Kehoe, Chas. Medin, Henry Kets, Pete Lombard, Jack Schields, John Zuiggle, ring stock; W. H. Dunbar, Chas. Mack, Howard Anderson, W. H. Adair, Fred Myers, Mr. Lamb, uptown wagon; Wallace Spring, Jack Green burg, W. Moore and Harry Williams.
Buffalo Bill (Col. Wm. F. Cody) and Pawnee Bill (Major Gordon W. Lillie) bought in Philadelphia, on May 26, the interest of the estated of James A. Bailey in what is known as "Buffalo Bill's Wild West and Pawnee Bill's Far East." The price was not made public.
Al. F. Wheeler Model Show notes. We are now in our seventh week, and, although we have encountered considerable rain, business has been fully up to the "New Model" standard. In six weeks we touched five States, which is "going some" for a wagon show. Since starting out, our equine department has been increased by the purchase of five head of heavy draught horses and the arrival of two pony colts. On May 13 we showed only five miles from the Frank A. Robbins Show. the govenor and Mr. Robbins spending a very pleasant day together, while visiting between the members of the two show, was the order of the day. Our arenic performance is by far the best ever carried by the "New Model," two rings being used to exploit the same. Will T. Miller has charge of the annex, with a line of attractions that always sends them out pleased. Business in his department has been big. Capt. H. Snider has charge of the menagerie, and all the animals are in the pink of condition. Our horses, under the watchful eye of D. Q. Miller, boss hostler, are considered the finest ever seen with a wagon show.
Assistant manager Gillespie is as busy as a bee. He states that he hasn't even been able to find time to attend a "hoss race" since the show started out. Garrett Johnson is gathering in the coin with the advertising privileges, and incidentally looking after the press work back with the show. Geo. Wood, superintendent of canvas, always has the tops up on time, while Frank Smith, boss property man, keeps the show moving like clockwork. Our popular chef, Gus Berry, is still pleasing the patrons of the "New Model Hotel," this being his fifth season in charge of this department. Up to date, our business had averaged the biggest ever done by this concern during April and May, an evidence that financial conditions are rapidly improving.
Welsh Bros.' Show notes. Six weeks of satisfactory business have just been concluded in Philadelphia, and indications point to the continuance of a prosperous life for the show during the rest of the summer in the Quaker City. Week ending May 29, despite the big opposition of the Buffalo Bill-Pawnee Bill Wild West Shows, we had one of the banner weeks. Pleasant weather prevailed. Both the two Bill's show and the Welsh Show had a big intermingling of showmen during the week.
The "big show" performance is whipped into better shape than ever, and is giving the greatest of satisfaction. A number of new and up-to-date animal displays have recently been added by Prof. John White. Bounding George Whittie, in his sensational bounding acrobatic wire number, is causing a genuine furore at each show. The Aerial Leons, Clo Farland and the Three De Homans, in original aerial specialties, ar also doing fine, Carresica and his band of twenty are the big musical feature. Their uptown nightly concerts are drawing crowds. After the Philadelphia season is concluded in October, the show will be sent on a long Southern tour. Arrangements are being perfected already for this trip. An extra fione programme of acts and a swell equipment will be employed.
Ringling Bros.' Shows. It rained all day at Long Branch, N.J., and was very cold, while the heavy wind right off the stormy Atlantic Ocean, blew a gale. We got everything up, however, and gave two shows, to fair business. At Paterson, N.J., Tom Roberts was greeted by his many friends and relatives, and at Kingston, N.Y., the Riccobono Bros. visited the show. Geo. W. Jackson, of the Jacksons, bicyclists, received a telegram announcing the death of Beebe Jackson, who was left in the hospital at Jersey City. She was only ill a few days. Johnnie Tripp is practising very hard with his club juggling, and is doing very nicely.
The clowning is the big hit of the show, as there are many funny clown numbers to keep the audience yelling all during the show. While Al. Miaco was clowning recently, one of his assistants, who was using an explosive slapstick on him, turned the explosive end the wrong way, and Al. received the contents of a 38 calibre blank. Now he eats his meals standing, but he is still in the ring. There were three handsome floral designs sent to the grave of Beebe Jackson, who was buried Sunday at Malden, Mass. We play Boston, Mass., week of 31.
Notes from the Barnum & Bailey Circus. At Columbus, O., while the men were taking down the menagerie top, after the night performance, a centre pole fell and struck a colored man on the head. He died within a few hours. At Coshocton, O., May 21, business was fair; at Wheeling, 22, business was good, and at Pittsburg, 24, 25, big business was done. Slivers Oakley, Spader Johnson and Steve Miaco, well known clowns, who are now playing vaudeville, were visitors to the big show, and they were kept busy renewing old acquaintances. The B. & B. Dressing Room Quartett are the candy this year. The favorite song is is "Wop! Wop! Wop!"
The Robinson Amusement Co. has acquired the Munday Circus Circus, operated by Col. P. J. Munday, who retires to his farm near Jacksonville, Fla. The deal was completed at Troy, P., and the figure is named at $20,000.
Capt. Snider, "the lion king," writes: "I am superintendent and equestrian director with the Wheeler Shows. I am also making a big hit in my hypnotic act, handling Spitfire, the untamable lion, also my dogs, bears and Prince ___, the talking horse. We are packing them to the ring bank nightly. Everyone is well, and the 'ghost' walks every Sunday.
The whereabouts of Joe Dunbar (or Joe Herbert) is desired by his mother, Mrs. Elinor Bragdon, __ West One Hundred and Eleventh Street, New York City, care of A. F. Yohn. Mrs. Bragdon writes: "He is a gymnast by profession and traveled under the names of Joe Dunbar and Joe Herbert. He left this city early in 1905 to join the Herbert Troupe, Fitzgerald Circus, Sydney. The last word received from him was a postcard from Christ's Church, New Zealand, Dec. 29, 1906, with no mention of intended movements."
The Hobsons have closed with the Ringling Circus and joined the Imperial Hippodrome Co.
Chas. Hilderra, Sam Fisher, Chas. Reynolds, Don Montgomery and Sam ___, of the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows, were royally entertained at the banquet given by the United Bartenders of Thompsonville, Mass., Thursday night, May __, after the night performace, and enjoyed a pleasant evening. Wm. Trout, our hurdle mule rider and singing comedian, sang several songs, and altogther it was voted a merry bunch of "the boys."
Homer Day is general agent of Col. M. H. Welsh's Great American Shows.
H. Moore has resigned as general agent of Rice Bros.' Shows.
?. Clayton Hall, formerly of Louis Robie's Knickerbockers, is now doing clown work with Sparks' World Famous Circus.
Chas. Gordon is ahead for I. M. Southern, programme publisher with the Frank A. Robbins Circus.
Ed. Turner, once a well known clown with P. T. Barnum, was found dying on the highway at Galeton, Pa., on May 28, from apoplexy. The barking of a dog attracted the attention of several persons who found him struggling in his death agonies. Besides being a clown, Turner was the author of a joke book that bore his name. Of late years he had been engaged in putting on amateur shows.
Beehe Jackson, of the Jackson Cycling Troupe, with the Ringling Brothers' Show, died last week at a hospital in Jersey City, N.J., where she had been left when taken ill. She had been ill only a few days. Interment was in Malden, Mass.
New York Clipper, June 12, 1909, pp. 454, 465. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
A Circus Twenty-Two Years Ago. A reader of the Clipper, in Athens, Ga., sends us the following copy of a circus bill 21 years old, the subject matter, it will be seen, varying in style somewhat from bills of the present day:
Stone & McCollum's Mammoth Great Western Circus, G. L. Eaton, Agent. Re-organized, arranged and newly equipped for the coming season of 1848, under the immediated management of John Smith, to be exhibited at Athens, on Thursday, April 13th, 1848 - for one day only. Doors open at 1 1/2 and 7 o'clock p.m. Performence to commence at 2 1/2 and 7 1/2 p.m. precisely. Near one hundred and fifty persons and horses, and twenty-five gorgeous carriages, will compose the grand traveling cavalcade, and with the beauty of the steeds and their caparisons, and the splendor of the trappings, will present in procession the most extensive and imposing spectacle ever witnessed on this continent, proving this might establishment to be the Largest and Most Perfect Circus in the World. With an immense double leviathan pavilion capable of containing with unparalleled comfort Thirty-five Hundred Persons. Eligible seats always reserved for ladies, and ushers in attendance to seat them on their arrival in the immense canopy.
H. K. Gaul's brass band swollen to its original size of fourteen picked musicians, unquestionably the most celebrated band in Europe or America, led by the renowned bugler, H. K. Gaul, will lead the procession and discourse "sweet sounds" during the performance. This grand musical festival will at once stamp the characeter of this stupendous undertaking, an earnest that the Great Western Circus will be no less noted for its unparalleled sire than for its excellence. The costumes, housings and trappings, are of equally novel design of splendid workmanship, and prepared with the great cost necessary to have everything in keeping with the great expenditure lavished upon this greatest of circuses.
The entertainments given by this company the last season were attended by over 500,000 persons, and produced a sensation everywhere unparalleled in the annals of the circle, and which have won for them the greatest encomiums for the highest circles, among whom were hundreds every day that never visited a circus before. Now having laid aside their scruples in consequence of the great celebrity of this company and its excellent management.
To enumerate the entire troupe of performers, and their respective lines if business, would be swelling this advertisement to an unusual length, and we trust our patrons will be content with a few of the prominent members attached to this circus of the nineteenth century. T. McCollum, the best general performer living, being at the head of each department in the circle. Eaton Stone, the greatest bareback rider in the world, justly acknowledged so by the elite and profession generally. D. W. Stone, the Ducrow of America, and Dramatic Equestrian of the world. John W. Smith, the manager and only gentleman delineator of American negro. J. Jackson, a very superior acrobat and clever artist on the corde crescent. J. Blackwood, the most youthful equestrian and gymnast of the age. A. Levi, the finished horseman and actor of all work. Master Harvey and C. Morrison, in their double posturing act. T. H. Coleman, the unrivalled American banjo player, and the best negro dancer extant. Professor Kelley, the modern Ole Bull, will regale the audience with "sweet music" during each representation. The eminently successful career of the grotesques attached to this splendid establishment, is a sure guarantee that G. B. Johnson and Ben Jennings are without rivals in their respective departments. The proprietors are happy to state that they have effected an engagement with M. J. Lipman, the 72 somersett man, who has lately returned from a very successful tour in Europe, being the first person that ever accomplished the arduous feat of throwing 66 Backwards Somersetts, at Batty's Royal Amphitheatre, before their Majesties Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. With this galaxy of brigh particular Stars it is trusted the entertainment will be graced by young and old, fair and gay. Each representation will conclude with the Nursery Legend of Giant Cormoran or Jack the Giant Killer, for the particular gratification and amusement of families.
The management wishes only to call attention to the fact of the happy result of his attempt to divest the circle of all impurities, evinced in the great numbers of the msot intelligent and refined who never attended a Circus before being everywhere amongst the patrons of this Circus, of which it is trusted the testimonials of the press will be found to be satisfactory. The public are referred to descriptive bills for full routine of entertainments. Admission. Boxes, __ cents, Children and Servants half price. This company will perform at Salem on Tuesday, April 11th; at Watkinsville, Wednesday, 12th; at Jefferson on Friday, 14th; at Gainesville on Saturday, 15th; at Camming, Monday, 17th.
Notes from the Barnum & Bailey Show. The B. & B. Show is still doing a big business, and every one is getting fat. Mr. McCammon was taken ill in Harrisburg, Pa., May 31. Mr. McCammon is one of the clowns with the show, and he also does a mule hurdle act. We hope he will soon be able to return to work.
We have had a few baseball games with the show, and Oh, you Clowns! In Altoona, May 29, the Musicians played the Clowns a game and the score was 10 to 8 in favor of the Clowns. In Harrisburg, Pa., May 31, the Clowns played the Street Men. The score was 1 to 4 in favore of the Clowns. In York the Clowns played a team that was picked from the whole show, and the score was 4 to 1 in favor of the Clowns. At every one of these games the clowns did not take their last half of the final inning, as it was not necessary. The members of the Clown team are: D. W. Winslow, Jake Olifan, Harry Burns, Spot Jerome, Jack Comrade, Jimmie Sullivan, Leonard Comrade, Fred Egner and Al. Olifan. This is a good team, and if you think you can beat it, hop on.
In Lancaster, Pa., several members of the T. M. A. lodge were entertained, and after the show at night the Lancaster fellows, who are a fine lot, showed our boys a good time. In Reading, Pa., June 3, Spot Jerome was called home on account of his father's death at Jackson, Mich. At Allentown, Pa., June 4, we had a muddy lot.
Notes from Howard Damon's Circus. The show has been out for five and a half weeks, and has had rain or snow two-thirds of the time. The first couple of weeks business was light, but lately the tents have been filled to their capacity, and for a new show we are more than pleased for our patronage. The afternoon houses have not been extra good for some unaccountable reason, but nights we have been turning them away. Performers and musicians are called in nearly every night to help seat the throng.
The outfit is a splendid one, and everything is handled on big show principles. We were a little short on horses at the start, but are buying them whenever we can find them. We started out feeding the people in the dining car, workingmen included, which was very nice during the cold weather, but since the show has been enlarged we decided to feed on the lot in the old way, so manager Damon went to winter quarters and brought another flat car, with camp wagon, calliope and a few baggage wagons, and now everything is complete. We will put up our new tents June 22. The ghost has walked regularly and everything has a prosperous air. W. W. Powers has full charge of the advance. The show moves quickly and has not lost a performance.
At Frankfort, Ky., early on the morning of June 3, John Maxey, a negro, who shot B. C. Bowers, a showman, during the performance of a circus there the previous night, was taken by a mob from the Franklin county jail and hanged from the St. Clair Street bridge. The communication giving the account of the affair does not name the circus. The shooting of Bowers occurred as a result of the negro's effort to get in the tent under the flap without a ticket. Bowers stopped him once or twice and then sent for policemen to arrest Maxey. The negro again tried to get into the tent, and when Bowers stopped him, Maxey pulled a revolver and began to shoot. Bowers caught the weapon after the first shot and prevented any more bullets from striking him. After firing four shots the negro turned and ran, but was quickly caught and taken to jail. B. C. Bowers, of Valdosta, Ga., the wounded ___ at last advices still in a critical condition at the King's Daughters Hospital, Frankfort. He was shot in the bowels. Physicians say he has an even chance for recovery.
Frank A. Robbins Show notes. May 21, at Naugatuck, Conn., we did capacity business, afternoon and evening. May __, at Torrington, Conn. turnaway business. Whitie ___ joined the show there, succeeding Paul Christian as manager of canvas. At ___, New Britain, Meriden and Middletown, Conn., business was good. May 29, at Willimantic, Conn., the sale of tickets was stopped at both performances fifteen minutes before the show started, turning enormous crowds away. May 31, Decoration Day, at New London, Conn., was a repetition of the 29 two turnaways. Westerly and East Greenwich, R.I., had capacity business. June 3, at Attleboro, Mass., the afternoon was fair and the night business was good. Mr. Brownley, the manager of the Washburn Show, visited us there. At Bristol, R.I., business was good. Mrs. Chevalier Paine, formerly of this show, was Mrs. Robbins' guest there, and both spent a pleasant day.
Col. M. H. Welsh's Great American Circus begins an indefinite engagement in Pittsburg June 10. The attractions will be new, and promises well. Col. Welsh has surrounded himself with an able and efficient staff of assistants. The arenic display will present many novel features. Everything is new and presents a splendid appearance.
Notes from Staats Bros.' Shows, E. E. Staats, mgr. Our shows opened in the Bronx, May __, to good business. There were several disappointments on the opening date, but the following week we gave the full programme, and every one was very much pleased. Mr. Staats has canceled all his dates until June 30, when the show will take the road again, and remain out until September.
Frank A. Robbins Loses Suit. Judge Tompkins, at White Plains, N.Y., handed down on June 3 the following decision in the action of Frances ?. Robbins against her husband, Frank A. Robbins, the circus manager. "The defendant's affidavits contain some inconsistent statements and are not all satisfactory. The plaintiff has explained the reasons for her delay in proceeding against the defendant for the enforcement of the provision in the decree for the payment of alimony and I can see no good reason why that provision of the decree should not be enforced so long as the decree stands in its present form. The motion to punish the defendant for his failure to pay alimony as directed by the decree is granted, and the defendant is fined the sum of $3,875, the amount of the accrued and unpaid alimony, together with the sum of $50 hereby allowed as counsel fee upon this motion."
H. I. Ellis Gets Verdict. The jury, on June 3, in Lancaster, O., rendered a verdict in favor of the plaintiff in the case of H. I. Ellis, who sued John F. Robinson, the circus man, for balance of salary for season of 1906. The verdict was for ___, with interest.
Burton and ___ report meeting with big success with the Webster Bros.' Circus at Philadelphia, doing their new rube turn in the big show. They also do a comedy Irish turn in the concert. They say: "The show is playing to crowded houses every night."
New York Clipper, June 19, 1909, pp. 488, 490. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Tiger Bill's Wild West and Trained Animal Shows, No. 1, D. W. Perrine, manager. This show opened its season at Eaton Rapids, Mich., May 15, where we experienced one of the worst wind and rain storms in our experience of twenty years, the wind blowing us down three times in two hours and destroying all of our canopy, excepting two sections (which were not put up), breaking poles and tearing the the side wall into ribbons, doing in all about $700 worth of damage, which was quite a bright send-off - for our opening performance. Nevertheless, we opened the evening show in a drizzling rain, without any canopy over the audience. We has as strong a little Wild West show as has ever played this part of the country, playing the smaller cities. This being an overland show, we do not give a parade, only a band concert, and we must say that Floyd J. Pike, who has charge of the band, has gotten together one of the strongest ten piece bands. All we hear after the first concert is praise for the band. We are using this year as a free act, and one that is drawing us a large crowd, a big balloon ascension and parachute drop by Carrie Mae Wood, she having missed only two ascensions this year on account of the weather. We are carrying seating capacity for 3,000 people, and an arena space 120x275 ft., forty head of riding stock, sixteen Shetland ponies, also Prof. Perrine's Troupe of Educated Dogs and Monkeys, which we are using as an added feature. Mr. Perrine has spared no expense in getting together. We have some of the best Wild West talent obtainable, among which are: Colorado Cal, expert lariat thrower and rope spinner; Montana Jack, glass ball breaking and fancy rifle shot; Mexican Bill and his congress of cowboys and rough riders; Mme. Mamie Cadotte and cowgirls and broncho busters; Harry L. Carpenter and his bunch of funny clowns, and a tribe of Sioux Indians, headed by Tiger Bill in person, making in all one of the strongest shows on the road for the price of admission. The business since the opening has been fine. Mr. Elmer has charge of the advance. The weather has been fine, excepting a few nights, when we wished we had our winter clothes with us. The following is the roster with the show: Tiger Bill, Fred Bush, A. H. Roody, Harry Cornish, H. L. Carpenter, G. O. Edmunds, Howard Hall, George Hunt, C. W. Knapp, Mexican Bill, Art Montgomery, George Marsh, Charles Marsh, Elmer McCracken, George Martin, J. Pierson, Colorado Cal, Montana Jack, F. J. Pike, F. W. Pike, Dave W. Perrine, George Sischo, B. A. Tannahill, Col. Valliet, Bill Williams, Rollo B. Williams, Harry ___, Floyd Burch, Louis Wilson, Mamie Cadotte, Mrs. Harry Germain, Maizee Germaine, Mrs. Grace Perrine, Olive Perrine, Mrs. Diana Montgomery, and the troupe of ten Sioux Indians.
Ringling Bros. Show in Boston played a record breaker. The weather was fine up to Saturday, and then it rained all day, but even that did not hurt business any. When the show trains arrived in Boston, Sunday, a big delegation of the performers went to the cemetery to visit the grave of Beehe Jackson. They buried her at 2 o'clock Sunday. Our party did not get there in time for the services, but the floral decorations were certainly handsome. Our folks made the trip in automobiles.
Sunday, at Revere Beach, was a recreation for us, after a hard week in Boston, and nearly all the troupers took advantage of it. Ed. Wright, one of the wardrobe men, had his foot run over and crushed very badly. He was taken to St. John's Hospital. He was fixing flages on the wagons when he slipped and his foot went under the wheel. The doctors say that he will have to stay in the hospital about eight weeks.
The Ringling ball team played the No. 2 team at Lowell, and the score was 17 to 7 in favor of the first team. Oscar Lowande has made a few trips to the World's Greatest during the past two weeks. His show is playing near us. There was a Greco-Roman wrestling match held recently between Felix Patty and Eugene Lorch, Felix winning one bout and Lorch winning the other. Chas. Smith's balloon number, and Geo. Hartzell's "Roosevelt in Africa," are the two big hits in the clowning.
The Frank A. Robbins Show continues to play to crowded houses, and for the past six weeks the big top has been packed twice a day. The side show, which is managed by H. H. Hall, has been doing exceptionally good business. Middleboro, Mass., on Saturday, June 5, attendance was large, afternoon and evening. Plymouth, on Monday, 7, had capacity business afternoon and turnaway at night. Abington, Mass., on Tuesday, 8, the big top was jammed at both performances, and it was regretted by many that the show could not stay another day, so that everyone could have a chance to see the performance. Wednesday, manager Edward Holland visited the Ringling Bros.' Show at Salem, Mass., where he was greeted by many old friends. Quincy, Mass., 9, business was good.
Mrs. Frank A. Robbins visited friends in New York City in the early part of the week, returning to the show Thursday at Dedham, Mass., accompanied by Master Milton and Winona Robbins, who will remain with the show during their summer vacation and return to college in the Fall. June 10, at Dedham, Mass., rain all day; business good. June 11, at Clinton, Mass., attendance was good in the afternoon, and at night the banner attendance of the week, a big turnaway being recorded.
Walter L. Main, the well known circus owner, was married on June 9, in Pittsburg, Pa., to Louise Katherine Schneider, a non-professional. The bride is twenty-eight years old and Mr. Main in his marriage license application gave his age as forty-six. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. E. M. Paddock, rector of the Emanuel Episcopal Church, at the home of the bride's mother. W. W. Power, the animal trainer, acted as Mr. Main's best man, and Elizabeth Schneider, a sister of the bride, was bridesmaid. The couple, after their honeymoon, will settle at Geneva, O., Mr. Main's home.
Harry Foster and John Murphy, two old time clowns, are favorites with Welsh Bros.' Circus at Philadelphia, and are making a big hit.
Washburn Circus Has Accident. At Natick, Mass., on June 8, ten people were severely injured and many others suffered minor bruises and injuries when a whole section of seats, with 500 occupants, at the Washburn Bros.' Company Circus, collapsed during the evening performance, throwing women, men and children into a struggling screaming mass. Before the detail of police arrived there was a scene of panic. The accient happened just ten minutes before the main show opened. The tent was crowded with people from Natick, Cochituate, Wellesley and South Framingham, and the section which collapsed was one of those accommodating the holders of admission seats, and held nearly its seating capacity of 400 when the supports weakened and the whole section dropped.
Many people were standing and walking up the aisles to their seats when the collapse came, and they were thrown, face down, into the mass of people who had been caught while sitting. Several people received ugly cuts from falling on projecting pieces of wood or metal, while others were bruised by the mass of people thrown on them. The show was given at Outing Park, off Harvard Street, a half mile from the centre of the town, near the Boston & Worcester tracks. For a while it looked as though there would be no performance, but the circus people, as soon as order had been restored, patched up the broken section and the show was allowed to go on.
Barnum & Bailey news. In Allentown, Pa., June 4, Harry Clemmings, a clown with the show, married Alice Giesner, who was with the show last season, riding in the automobile loop, one of the big features of the show. In Scranton, Pa., on Sunday, there was a blow-out given by the Indians. We have just organized a club which is causing a great deal of talk aroung the show. The club members are ten in number, and no one else can belong. The members are: Harry La Pearl, big chief; Al. Olifan, little chief; Gus Kraft, big warrior; Jake Olifan, "Rain in the Face"; Jim Rossi, papoose; Fred Egner, chow-chow; George Zamert, winged horse; Herman Darlor, Deer Foot; Jack Comrade, White Bull; Herman Gruner, Black Hawk. May they live forever.
At Wilkes-Barre, Pa., on June 8, Henry Sylow, the clown policeman with the show, was arrested during the street parade and taken off the clown band wagon in his make-up. He was fined $10 and costs. It appears that some one had been throwing tacks along the street at the balloons sold by men not with the show. Sylow had given a small boy some tacks he happened to have in the pockets of his clown coat, and the police picked him out for the mark. Now the boys call Sylow "Tacks." We hope he sticks. At Williamsport, Pa., Bill Hinchy joined the show. Welcome to our city. He is doing a mule hurdle act and clowning.
From Doc Waddell. The Lambrigger Wild Animal Show, Animal Hippodrome and Quadruped Circus inaugurated a new scheme this season, and instead of opening under canvas in the bad weather of the early Spring, went indoors at Columbus, O., for three weeks, playing to phenomenal crowds, and are now in Detroit on Woodward Avenue, turning them away. Doc Waddell, general agent of the Lambrigger Show, says he is the father of this new idea for tent shows, and he says the big circuses will be doing it; that is, they will get hold of the hippodrome buildings in the different cities and carry on the circus in the winter months, or the greater part thereof, not going on the road until June or July, when the sun is out right and proper, and thus avoid the losing money period in April and May that circuses have been experiencing for several years, by not paying attention to the change in climatic conditions since the Van Amburg and Dan Rice were on earth. Another scheme of Waddell's is putting the show in the cities named under the big amusement companies that have leased buildings to keep moving picture men away from them. At Columbus, the Lambrigger Show was under Seas & Young, and in Detroit it is under the Casino Amusement Co. After the Lambrigger Show leaves, the amusement people date in another tent show attraction, and the "geomertical progression" of a new business seems assured.
Michael Rooney, principal bareback rider of Cole Bros.' Circus, and one of the best known riders in the business, cut his throat at his home in Harbor Creek, the winter quarters, morning of June 9. He had been home a week on account of illness. He is in an Erie, Pa., hospital, and will recover. His wife, who is with the circus, was notified.
Son of Siamese Twin Dies. Jesse Bunker, a deaf mute, youngest son of Chang, one of the Siamese twins, was killed by lightning on June 11, in his tobacco barn in Surry County, N.C. He was forty-eight years old. The famous twins married Virginia women, and the sons have all been prosperous men, though most of them were born deaf.
Arthur Lane, local manager of the Majestic Theatre, at Ann Arbor, Mich., which is a part of the circuit controlled by W. S. Butterfield, of Battle Creek, has been selected as manager of MacKay's European Circus, opening in Detroit, Mich., June 28. Mr. Lane will again have charge of the Ann Arbor theatre when it re-opens in the Fall.
Circus Guia is not in Trinidad. The company includes: Les Jundts, the Two Younas, the Three Dancing Sunbeams, Alf. Reno and Family, Herra, the Nelson Bros., and the Maxim Sisters. Lew Jordan left New York June 12, to look after the remainder of the tour.
Collier & Co.'s Great London Show will open its season June 22, and will appear in St. John, N. B., Can., week of June 28, where it will inaugurate at tour of the Maritime Provinces, play ing one, two and three days and week stands. This will be the first popular priced circus to tour the provinces in ___ years, and it will be the first tented exhibition to exhibt on Prince Edward Island in twenty-five years. The show will close its Canadian tour the latter part of September, at Montreal, after which a tour of the South will be made. The outfit is entirely new, while the ring performance will be of the best. Collier & Co., proprietors; C. F. Colleir, general manager.
Roster of advance car No. 1, Gollmar Bros.' Shows: William H. Delly, manager car; F. C. Harris, lithographer; William Hitchcock, programmer; Geo. I. Reid, official programme solicitor; Geo. Becker, boss billposter; R. M. Morris, Zeak Mawhood, F. L. Burt, Walter Jensen, ?. M. Hartman, John Sanders, Geo. Ferrel, Tom Gavney, Wm. (Gib) Martin, F. Sammon, Jas. Ward, ?. J. Harter, and H. Johnson.
Harry R. Moore, general agent of the Rice Bros.' Shows, writes: "A mortgage from John H. Garrett to W. H. Pomery for $10,000 ties up the Rice Bros.' Show in East St. Louis, Ill.
Fat Lady Wasting Away. Kittie Plunkette, of Elizabeth, N. J., has begun suit in the Supreme Court of Jersey City against the Public Service Corporation, to recover $20,000 for the loss of two hundred pounds of flesh. She still has four hundred pounds left, but she states that is not enough to enable her to earn her living, as she heretofore has, by her "profession as a fat lady." She appeared in a number of circuses and side shows until, as she alleges, one day in October, 1908, she tried to get on a car belonging to the defendant corporation in Elizabeth, fell to the ground and suffered injuries to her nervous system. Since then, she contends, she has been steadily failing. Eventually she found that her money making capacities had also disappeared with her loss of weight.
From Al. F. Wheeler's Shows. For the past two weeks the weather has been fine, and business was the largest ever recorded on the New Model books. At Nashua, N. H., June 8, we played to capacity in the afternoon, and at night it was estimated that over 2,000 people were turned away, unable to gain admission. At that place we had a very pleasant visit with Oscar Lowande and members of the Bay State Shows.
A. G. Spellman joined our advance June 1, as special opposition agent, and his work has been highly in evidence in all stands where needed. It is generaly understood that the services of a twenty-four hour man are required only with railroad shows, but the New Model has grown to such proportions that Mr. Wheeler found it necessary to employ a man in that capacity. Fred Houser has been engaged to fill that position, and his work is proving highly satisfactory. The latest acquisition to our menagerie is a baby camel, which arrived at Derry, N. H., and which is proving a great attraction in the annex. Mr. Wheeler has just closed a contract for the erection of a large addition to his winter quarters at Oxford, Pa. This will include a large paint shop, also woodworking and blacksmith ship, which will be fully equipped with the latest machinery. The show will make a long season, running South, and will stay out until the snow flies.
Edward Cullen, who for thirty-five years was connected with the Robinson Circus, being business manager most of that time, died at his home in Cincinnati, O., June 7.
Mrs. Walter B. Aymar, wife of the late W. B. Aymar, of circus fame, died at her residence in New York City June 8. She was well known in the circus profession. When her husband owned and operated his circus throughout the States, South American, West Indies and Mexico, she traveled with him and was esteemed and beloved by all connected with the show. The deceased is mourned by her daughter, Lottie Aymar, and several relatives. Interment took place a Woodlawn, N. Y., June 11.
New York Clipper, June 26, 1909, pp. 512, 514. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Ringling Bros.' Shows. At Worcester, Mass., we had as visitors the mother, father, sister and brother-in-low of Laura O'Meers, and at Woonsocket, ___ and Kitty Devene were visitors. There was a flip flap race at Woonsocket, the participants being Guadealupe Meharas, Jule Pachecko and Lester Belford. The distance was seventy-five yards. Meharas finished first, Lester Belford second, and Pachecko third. In the second race Felix Patty and Jule Pachecko were entered, Pachecko finishing first. Dr. Riley is out every day trying out ball players. He says he has some surprises for the boys, and will ___ some dark horses the next game. Mr. and Mrs. Fred Welcome and their baby were also visitors at Providence. Todd Judge and Mrs. Josie Farnum and her two sons, Willie and Raymond, were visitors. At Fall River among the visitors were Wm. Harbeck and wife.
The Ringling ball team and the Independence team played ball, the score being 8 to 1 in favor of the Fall River team. There is plenty of practicing going on between the shows these fine days. Jimmy Spriggs, our funny old captain, keeps the crowd laughing, and Al. Miaco is kept busy making fish for the ___ fishermen. The Jeff Club is growing, and so is the Kodak Club. There will not be anything left in the route after they get done taking what they want. The Belfords are doing Risley work on the shoulders now, and are practicing some new and astonishing feats which they will put in the act soon. Billie Dart, of the Livingstons, was a very busy man at Providence, entertaining friends and relatives. Jack Foley is riding a new menage horse, and is doing fine with him. It has only been working since Boston.
For the first time in ten years, "Governor" John F., Gill and Charles, sons of Uncle John Robinson, founder of the Robinson Shows, were in Cincinnati together. They had their pictures taken at Terrace Park, the summer home of the "Governor." The "Governor" has been tied up in court by his married daughters, who are suing him for stock he has held in trust for them. The case is on.
Homer D. Hobson, of the Hobsons, equestrians, was a Clipper caller June 21. Mrs. Hobson is visiting her sister in West Hoboken, N. J. The couple are resting at present.
Barnum & Bailey news. The big show is still doing a great business. We have had some rain, but that does not stop the people from coming. At Cleveland, O., June 14, Phil King, the well known clown, visited the show and shook hands with several of his friends. At Marion, O., 15, on a lot some distace from town, business was fair. At Toledo, 16, business was big. . . . This is also the home of Henry Stantz Howe, who visited many of his friends during the day. Detroit, Mich., followed to big business. The Gentry Show was also appearing there on the same date. Stick Davenport, Bill La Rue, Art. Decoma and Lew Ross visited the show there. They were all "old timers," and it did one good to see their faces again around a circus. The clowns are still winning the ball games. At Marion they beat the Street Men, 8 to 3. We love the Street Men, but oh! you Clowns!
Gollmar Bros.' Show notes. Rain and mud predominating with us yet, but in spite of all the ___, business holds good. Every one with the show is feeling well, and enjoying the mountain air of Montana. Prof. Dell Smith's Band is one of the features of the big show . . .
Hunt's Silver Plate Circus played to big audiences June 16, giving a good, clean show, with no dull acts. George M. Forepaugh was a visitor and was entertained by Mr. Hunt. A Clipper Club has just been formed with the Silver Plate Circus.
The Wheeler Show. One of Capt. Snider's bears attacked our boss hostler, D. Q. Miller, and lacerated his hand. Never in the history of the Wheeler Show has business been so big. Capt. Snider, in his hypnotic lion act with "Spitfire," the untamable lion, is going big.
Rice Brothers' Show Up for Sale. Rice Brothers' Colossal Railroad Shows are to be auctioned off to the highest bidder at the National Stock Yards, in East St. Louis, June 29, to satisfy a debt due W. H. Pomeroy, a stockman.
Mlle. Dair, in private life Mrs. Jessie Matthews, and well known in the circus world as one of the most sensational aerial performers, died at Davenport, Ia., June 7.
New York Clipper, July 3, 1909, p. 536. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from the Robbins Shows. Record breaking business for the Robbins Shows. At stand after stand all previous records for big business fall, making the first seven weeks' business the greatest in the history of this show. June 11, at Clinton, Mass., and 12, at Hudson, Mass., with Ringling Bros.' Show only ten miles away, business was great at both stands. At Waltham, Mass., 14, afternoon house was fair; night house good. June 15, at Ipswich, Mass. (thirty-eight miles) arrived early. This day was a memorable one for every one with the troupe. Governor Robbins' fifty-third birthday was royally celebrated. The Governor received many valuable jewelry presents, and a Panama Hat, a gold headed cane, a gold pocket knife and numerous other useful presents. Presentation speeches by Geo. W. Ross. The climax came when the good people of Ipswich presented the Governor with the greatest day's business of the season.
June 16, at Newburyport, Mass. (twelve miles), business good. June 17, at Portsmouth, N. H. (twenty miles), attendance good at both performances. At Dover, N. H., 18, we met with high winds, which made it almost impossible to put up the big top, but Edward Holland and Whitie Crosset soon had things in order, and everything was in readiness for the afternoon performance long before time to open the doors. Capacity business at both performances. At Biddeford, Me., 19 (forty-two miles), arrived early, to turn away, afternoon and night. At Rockland, Me., arrived early, turn away business in the afternoon, and a good night house.
Our ballet troupe has been enlarged. Ten girls joined the show at Livermore Falls, which makes our ballet of twenty-five girls a strong feature. Mrs. Miaco is in charge, succeeding Rose Edyth. Mabel Miaco is scoring great success as premier danseuse. The members of the Frank A. Robbins Shows have organized a ball team, which has not lost a game to date. Send challenges to Milton Robbins, en route.
Gollmar Bros.' notes. Business is big. We have had rain, mud and wind, but still continue to hold our own. In Butte we had opposition from three shows, but we were there on "Minder's Day," and being the first big show in, captured the town. The attendance at the evening performance was much larger than that of the afternoon, so much so, in fact, that the ticket wagons was closed at 8:15.
During the parade a stampede was narrowly averted when the cry of "the lion's loose!" sent the assembled crowd scattering in every direction during a stop in the parade. The trouble began when Joe St. Joe, a town youth, seeing the lion cage standing at the intersection of Broadway and Main Street, walked over and began to tease Gollmar Bros.' big lion. The lion was asleep or pretended to be, with his nose on his paws. His tail hung out through the bars and Joe saw the chance of his young life to do something he had never done before. Seizing the tail of the king of beasts, he began twisting it. The lion roared with pain as Joe continued to twist. The bellowing of the enraged brute could be heard blocks away. Immediately, when Joe let go, the lion sprang at the trainer, who was in the cage with him. It required all the man's nerve and strength to beat the brute back. A dog was scurrying through the crowd between the people's legs, and someone shouted "A lion's loose." The crowd broke and ran in every direction, while the fight in the cage went on. Some thought the brown dog was the lion. The trainer hit the lion several times with a piece of iron bar and finally cowed him. Joe St. Joe was arrested, charged with creating a disturbance.
Ringling Bros.' Circus notes. The Ringling Show arrived at Springfield, Mass., at noon, and our cars lay by the side of a beautiful river. The show ground was an ideal place for the World's Greatest. There was quite a bathing place for both men and stock. Lil Kerslake and wife recently made a flying trip home to Turner's Falls, Mass. Laura O'Meers also spent a Sunday home. The troupers spent most of the day out on the river, fishing and hunting. Johnnie Belford rejoins the show here after a short illness. Denny Courtis had a fall during the races, and hurt his shoulder.
Frank Amar was a visitor at Waterbury, Conn. The mother and sister of the Patty Bros. were visiting for two days at New Haven. Our ball club played the Y. M. C. A. team. Score, 5 to 6, favor local team. The weather has been very hot the last week, but business was big. Joe Pendergras, an old time clown, was a visitor at Stamford, Conn. He and Al. Miaco had quite a long talk, which went away back in the early '70s, when both were with the P. T. Barnum Show. The Wards are making a big hit with their aerial act, and get applause all around the track at the finish. The Shaws are also a big hit. Al. White, our "lady clown," has the audience guessing, and his work is very effective. The Hotel Ringling, which is run by our able and worthy steward, Allie Webb, knows how to please the troupers this hot weather. The iced tea and ice cream and berries make a bit hit with the bunch.
Rose Edyth has left the F. A. Robbins' Circus and is now booking for fairs as directress of ballet.
The Imperial Shows closed June __.
Chas. Hilderra and Sam Fisher, gymnasts, now en route Al. F. Wheeler's Shows, have joined hands to produce a novelty aerial act for the coming vaudeville season. The act will consist of up-to-date ring work, eccentirc contortion and pantomimic comedy.
Hunt's Silver Plate Circus. We are now in our sixth week touring New York State, and although we have encountered considerable rain all along the line, still we have been packing them in at every stand. "Dare Devil Bolton," who is doing the Slide for Life as a free outside attraction, met with a very painful though not serious accident. He had ascended to the dome of the big top and at the given signal started on his perilous journey of one hundred and ten feet to the ground below. No sooner had he begun his descent, however, when the apparatus snapped, dropping him through the canvas to the ground inside the tent. It was at first feared that he had been killed, but at the expiration of fifteen minutes he regained consciousness, and, bowing to the eager and expectant throng which had collected in front of the big top, he disappeared into the dressing top. Notwithstanding his bruised condition, "Bolton" appeared twice during the afternoon performance with his partner, Fred Menard, in their double trapeze and revolving ladder acts. He will resume his sensational Slide for Life twice daily, starting at Ravena, N.Y., June 28.
Our band, under the efficient direction of Prof. Louis Le ___, is receiving ovations in every city we visited, and is conceded by press and public to be the best ten piece band on the road today. Col. John Hunt has just returned to the show from New York, bringing with him six big dapple gray horses, to be used on our band wagon in parade.
Barnum & Bailey news. In Jackson, Mich., June 18, the home of Spot Jerome, a number of the circus boys joined Elks Lodge No. 113. The Elks of Jackson have a fine clubhouse, are a fine lot of fellows, and they gave us a great time. The circus boys went to the clubhouse after the afternoon show, when supper was served, and a banquet was tendered us after the show at night. We have, all told, about one hundred Elks with the show, and everybody had a great time.
At South Bend, Ind., June 19 (a one hundred mile jump), business was big in spite of its being a fearfully hot day. On our way to Milwaukee, Wis., where we played June 21, some of the boys spent Sunday in Chicago. On the 22d we were in Tomah. No one knows who discovered this town, but we made it and came one hundred and fifty-five miles to get there. There was a heavy rain in the afternoon, and no parade or show until night. We could not put up the cook tent and we ate our dinner under the trees. It took well, in spite of the fact that everything was wet for supper, which could not be helped, and we made the best of it. St. Paul, Minn., was played 23. We had more rain, gave no parade and a late afternoon show, and a night show to good business. At Minneapolis, on June 24, business was big. Harry Burns received a telegram announcing the death of his father. He left for Cincinnati, O., and will rejoin the show the current week. Patsy Curtin joined the show in Cleveland to do clowning all through the performance, and he is making them laugh.
Des Moines Papers Decide That Circus Notices Must be Paid For. At the recent meeting of the Iowa Associated Dailies in Des Moines, some very important resolutions were passed. Among the resolutions is the following: "Whereas, Free reading matter for circuses has increased in alarming proportions during the past several years while paid advertising in the same period has decreased to a big extent, therefore be it Resolved, That no advance circus notices shall be published unless paid for at the regular rates covering such matter. Cash only to be considered as compensation for any or all matter run."
The Welsh Bros.' Newest Great Shows are in their tenth week in the Quaker city, and up to the present time the show has enjoyed fair business. The company of performers remains intact, and the performance continues to give the very best of satisfaction. A notable addition to the "big show" programme is Prince Kishi Hashimoto, royal court Oriental top spinner and sensational juggler. His act is a decided success. Carresica and his band of twenty-five musicians continues the big musical feature, and also a decided drawing car. The show is scheduled to remain in Philadelphia for the rest of the summer, making all three day stands.
Fred Williams writes: "I have just concluded my first week with Al. F. Wheeler's Shows, having joined them at Dover, N. H., Monday, June 14, and am now showing in the jungles of Maine, packing them in at every performance. We love the big city time, but ___ these Maine jungles. If the Old Reliable was ever a welcome sight it goes far beyond it now. We look forward to its arrival in camp with the same eagerness that we look for the 'Dancing of Lizzie,' which happens every Sunday a.m. My portion of the programme consists of singing and talking clown, 'January' act, and ___ in concert. A fine bunch of all American boys, and business is big."
Bob Harris, singing and dancing comedian, writes: "The Van ___ Vaudeville Show closed June 12, in the Southern part of Ohio. I joined the Bert Silver Show at Grand Rapids, Mich., June 14, assuming the position of principal comedian and ___ banner advertiser, and am meeting with big success. The Silver Family Show carries thirty-two people, twenty-two head of horses and twelve wagons to transport the show. . . ."
New York Clipper, July 10, 1909, p. 566. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Welsh Great American Show. Col. M. H. Welsh is sole owner and manager; ___ Davis, press agent . . . Harry Green, manager dining tents; "Shunty" Ross, boss canvasman; Fred Lucke, boss canvasman for side show; M. W. Graves, trainmaster; James S. Bass, superintendent. Big show acts: the Le Roys, aerial performers . . . Prof. Wilson' trained goats, dogs and ponies; Mons. Von Aiken's trained bears; Rose and Rose, impalement act . . . Ida Molton, aerial bars and traps; Nelson, James and Nelson, acrobats. Side show and annex: W. C. Lane, manager; Dick Allen and Fred Fischer, ticket sellers; the Great Burkhart, lecturer and magician; Nells Aida, snake charmer; Miss La Rose, mind reader and ___; Mitchell Sisters, singers, dancers and instrumentalists; Miss Arlington, bag puncher . . . Anderson's trained cockatooes; Hall and Woods, performing troupe of elephants; Geo. Acton, mule hurdle rider; Dan S. James, four horse rider; Max Hugo, principal clown, with the following assistants - Bob Koster, Chas. Horke, Frank Tate, Fred Rose, Tom Tipton, Dick Adams, H. F. Kauffman. A white band of fourteen pieces, with Burney Hanks, leader, and a colored band for side show, of eight pieces, under the leadership of Roy A. Temple. Executive staff: Homer B. Day, general agent; Thos. Aiton, railroad contractor; E. M. Langford, local contractor; Tom Allen, special agent; Will C. Smith, excursion agent; James Nelson, checker-up; Harry Wilson, twenty-four hour man; W. C. Lane, side show manager. Advance car No. _: J. Andrews, manager; S. J. McAllister, boss billposter; John Faros, Chas. O'Bryan, ___ Russell, ___ Watkins, Bob Lynn, W. Black, ___, Sidney Warren, Chas. Stafford, John Hickory . . . billposters; Curley Moore, S. Weston, H. A. Todd, lithographer and banner men; E. C. Flint, programmer; E. M. Osgood, cook. Advance car No. 2: Jack C. Kendall, manager; ___ boss billposter; J. Fred Johnson, Will Kerr, ?. M. McHale, N. S. Proper . . . Jack Wallace . . . billposters . . . Robert Thompson, paste maker and porter; Ned Johnson, cook. It is a ten car show, with two cars in advance, and is the best show of its size on the road. It is the intention of Col. Welsh to make a long Southern tour.
Ringling Bros.' notes. One of our camels was struck by an automobile at New Haven, Conn., and died next day at Gloversville, N.Y. The ball club played the Gloversville White Sox, and after some bad judgment on the part of the umpire, who favored the local team all through, we lost the game. Frank Eldred and wife were visitors. . . . One of the working men who had been paid off the day before, was drowned at Utica. At Syracuse the visitors were Sig. Sautelle and wife, Lewis Graves, the father of "Peanuts" O'Neil, mother and sister of Carl Milvo, and many other friends of Al. Miaco, from Courtland, N.Y.
The two fox terriers owned by George Hartzell and Fred Stelling, were out running recently, and came into the dressing room with full grown rabbits which they had killed. This shows that the dogs can hunt as well as act. At Rochester, N.Y., the brother of Tom Miaco was a visitor; also ___ Fisher and wife, Fred Fisher and others of the troupe. At Buffalo, N.Y., we had the staff of the Courier Litho Co. and the Jessie Keller Bicycle Troupe. There were many automobile trips to Niagara Falls. Many of the foreign acts went sight seeing. . . . The ball team played the Y. M. C. A. at Rochester; scors, 6 to _, favor of local team. At Buffalo our ball team was led to victory by Johnnie Tripp, our old time catcher. This is the first game he has caught this season. We can't lose with Johnnie behind the bat. Score, 10 - 3, favor of Ringling team.
From the Yankee Robinson Show. ___ Paul writes from Park River, N. D., as follows: ". . . Well, we are doing nicely, in spite of strong opposition. The B. & B. Show has our stands billed in the usual way. We have lost but one day since our opening in Des Moines, Ia., April 29 - that was at Wagner, S. D., the lot was covered with water, so we didn't unload. We have lost three night shows on account of rain or bad lots. The Crooks Bros., rider, leapers and tumblers; also the Richard Sister, are recent joiners. The rest of the show remains the same, save Lucus and Bray, who left the show recently. The merry makers are: Dell Fengo, Great Gay, Gagnier, Crooks Bros., "Kinker' Fred, Lasure Gabbit . . . We passed the Gollmar Show in Lorimore, and exchanged a short visit. This leaves us all well and enjoying good business.
Notes from the Barnum & Bailey Show. While showing in Duluth, Minn., we experience one cold day. It was so cold that it was necessary to wear an overcoat. On a 326 mile jump to Grand Forks, N. Dak., we passed the Gollmar Bros.' Show at Crookston. Al. Olifan, Pat Valdo and Harry La Pearl had made arrangements to stop off to see the show when the train reached Crookston. La Pearl got off and discovered he was alone. After the train had pulled seven miles out of town Olifan and Valdo learned where La Pearl was. They walked back to the town. La Pearl gave them a hearty welcome. On June 29, at Devils Lake, N. Dak., we gave one performance. Burke's "Uncle Tom's Cabin" Show was also there. . . .
Hunt's Silver Plate Circus notes. We are still touring New York State, to capacity business. At Ravena, N.Y., June 27, the performers and canvasmen crossed bats, in a fierce struggle for supremacy on the local baseball diamond. The most exciting feature of the game was in the fifth inning, when the score stood 6 to 3, in favor of the performers, with Prof. Le Brun, our bandmaster, at the bat. The professor hit a pop fly over toward second base, striking "Swifty," a recruit from Sharon, Conn., on the nose, and causing that member to bleed quite profusely. The game was somewhat delayed in consequence, as it was several minutes before "Swifty" could be induced to resume his position of second basemen. When this was finally accomplished, the game was resumed with renewed vigor. It looked like a complete victory for the performers at the end of the seventh inning, with score 10 to 6, when just at this juncture some "___" yelled "Heads up," and the game broke up in a free for all Marathon from the diamond to the cook tent. The winner of this last named event was Joe Harden, a member of the trombone section in our band, he leading all others by a distance of fifteen feet.
Friday night, July 2, we made a jump from Guilderland to Mechanicsville, N.Y., a distance of twenty-four miles. We had just about started on our way when it began to thunder and lightning, and before we reached Albany the rain poured down in torrents. We reached Mechanicsville with the wind blowing a gale, and no sooner had the big top been set up than the wind bore it to the ground. However, we raised it up again, and gave our performance on schedule time to big audiences.
Al. F. Wheeler's Show notes. It is generally conceded that the 1909 frame-up of the New Model Shows is perfect except in one respect - the seating capacity of our canvs, which has been inadequate to accommodate the patronage accorded us all through the New England States, turnaways having been recorded at several stands. That our arenic performance is giving great satisfaction is proven by the fact that in many stands at least one-third of our night crowds are made up of people who have visited the matinee and who return with their friends in the evening to "have another look." Late additions to our dressing room roster are Frank Amour, comedy bar performer, and Fred Williams, clown and comedian.
At Norway, Me., June 26, Lindwood Flint paid the show a visit, and the governor purchased a consignment of small animals of him. Included in the lot were a pair of ___ eno bears, which at present are the centre of attraction in the annex. . . . While we have had some quite hard pulls since entering the State of Maine our stock is in the pink of condition, and horsemen along the line proclaim it the finest bunch of horses ever seen with a wagon show. The "Glorious Fourth" was spent at Skowhegan, Me., and many members of the company spent Sunday at Lakewood Park. Our Monday's business at that place was the largest ever done with a circus in that town, people being turned away at both performances. The next few weeks will be spent in the summer resorts of New Hampshire, after which we head for the South, staying out until snowballs are ripe.
Rice Bros.' Show Sold at Auction. To satisfy a mortgage held by W. H. Pomeroy, the menagerie and effects of the Rice Bros.' Circus were put on sale at the National Stockyards in East St. Louis, Ill., on Thursday, July 1. At first it was the intention to auction the animals and red wagons, but this was prevented by a Federal Court injunction, and an agreement was reached by which the property was to be disposed of at private sale. W. P. Hall, of Lancaster, Mo., acting as agent for several road shows and carnival companies, took two elephants and picked out two lions. The amount paid for the animals was not made public.
Cherokee Ed's Wild West Show, Edward Baumeister, of Louisville, owner and chief Wild Westerner, stranded at Huntington, W. Va., on June 30, with two-thirds of the property tied up by attachments. The show left Louisville ten days previously and had poor business almost constantly. Rainy weather and attachments in a number of towns put the attraction down and out.
Fred A. Bennett writes: "Have just finished four weeks as equestrian director, principal clown, high stilts and announcer at the Philadelphia Hippodrome, and leave to rejoin Thurston, the world's greatest magician, at the Criterion Theatre, Atlantic City, N. J."
Donald McDonald, "strong man" of the Abdaliah Troupe of acrobats in vaudeville, killed himself by firing a bullet through his heart on Sunday, June 27, at his home in New York City. McDonald's seven-year-old brother, David, tried to prevent the suicide. McDonald, twenty-nine years old, was known as one of the really strong men of the stage. He ran away from his home in Scotland with the Hadj Ali Troupe when a boy, and had been with acrobatic acts in circuses and vaudeville ever since. In 1892 he came to America with the Hadj Ali Troupe, and joined the Forepaugh Show. He was known as Salam. The Abdaliah Troupe appeared at the Fifth Avenue Theatre, New York City, last week. No reason is known for the suicide. McDonald was a member of the White Rats, N. Y., and the Pittsburg T. M. A.
New York Clipper, July 17, 1909, p. 570. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Frank A. Robbins Shows exhibited at Waterville, Me., on Saturday, June 26, to great crowds. Showed on the fair grounds, and most of the Waterville officials say that the circus drew more people than any of their annual fairs for the past fifteen years. June 28, at Bangor, Alfred Lolland, son of Orse Lolland, our chef, was taken suddenly ill with appendicitis, and was taken to the Bangor Hospital, where he died Wednesday. His body was sent to his home at Milford, Del. This is the only death this season. Every one else with the show is well and happy. . . . . Business was very good at Lincoln, Oldtown and Patten. July 2 we arrived at Presque Isle, eighty-eight miles, and had capacity business in the afternoon, and a good night house. W. F. Cram, son of F. W. Fram, president of the B. & A. R. R., called on Mr. Robbins, coming over 350, miles through the Maine woods in his automobile. After seeing the show, Mr. Cram and Mr. Robbins started out on a two day tour through Northern Maine, where Mr. Cram is securing the right of way to extend branches of the B. & A. R. R. Mr. Cram says that he is very anxious to hurry their extension so that he may be able to open up some new territory for the Robbins Shows' next visit to Maine.
Ringling Bros.' Show notes. At Erie, Pa., the weather was ideal. . . . July 4 was spent very quietly at New Brighton, Pa. On July 1 a cold water club was organized, and has a membership of ten. Everything was fine until July 3. ___ had some very fine spirits, and all the club stampeded but two members. At New Brighton, July 5, our afternoon was big, also night good. After the nigth show we had our Fourth of July fireworks celebration. We had $75 worth of fireworks, and a fine display it was. After the show the chairman of the fireworks committee, George Hartzell, did the buying, and everyone enjoyed them. There was also a dance and a fine banquet in the cook tent. The ball team beat the local team, score 8 to 2.
Lil Kerslake is working hard with three new pigs, and has them well advanced in their work. At Akron many of the boys were royally entertained by the Mardo Trio at their home. Visitors there were Phil King and Bill Henchy. Robt. Meeks was taken ill and was left there in the hospital. His condition is serious. Billy Rice spent Sunday at his home in Detroit. At Tiffin, visitors were the brother and son of Reno McCree . . . the sister of Florence Harris, the mother of ___ Jordan, and many friends from Toledo. One of our six horse teams was struck by a train, which killed two and hurt another which had to be shot. . . .
The candy butchers and ticket sellers of the Buffalo Bill-Pawnee Bill's Show played a very interesting game of baseball, which was won by the ticket sellers by the score of 18 to 11. There was not a dull moment in the game. The boys' playing was snappy and full of ginger. Handy and Wiser formed the battery for the ticket sellers and showed excellent form, Handy striking otu ten men. The boys all hit the ball hard, especially Frank Welsh. Ben Keller, George Baldwin and Faber Fredricks showed much speed on the bases, and had Kelly, the opposing catcher worried at all times. The ticket seller were short two of their strongest players, Dewling and Stevens, on account of sickness. The game was played for a side bet of $100, which the ticket sellers used to good advantage. The Butchers want a return game and will be accommodated.
The J. M. Southern Co. has the programmes of the Buffalo Bill and Pawnee Bill Show for next season.
Ben Goodwin, monologue comedian, is en route with Barnum & Bailey's Shows, where he is meeting with much success.
Gollmar Bros.' Shows. We showed in Bemidji, Minn., July 1, and four members of the circus were initiated into the Elks. It was necessary for the local members to wait until quite late (afer the show was over) before the work of initiation could go on, the the hall was crowded when the "grand entree" was made. The four "fawns" were: Thomas Holmes, of the side show; Garry Vanderbilt, clown; Albert Martinus, ticket seller, and George Wormold, boss canvas man. The men were initiated at the special request of the Baraboo, Wis., Lodge, all four being residents of the Wisconsin lodge and having made application to join the lodge at that place. The following members of the order were present at the meeting from the circus. H. Tyron, press representative for Gollmar Bros.; Frank H. Webb, ticket seller; G. H. Messick, advertising representative for the Union ___ Cartridge Co.; Harry Wirtz, assistant director; "Doc" Chapman, ticket seller; Robert Altman, and Thomas Ford, legal adjuster.
The members of the Greater Norris & Rowe Shows had an enjoyable time on July 4. The show played River Falls, Wis., July 3, and the Fourth was spent in recreation of all sorts. . . .
Little Ruth Edna, "the flexible doll," informs us that she is still with Robinson Bros.' Show, under canvas, doing her contortion act, and meeting with great success. She says: "After leaving this company I will go to my home, Olean, N.Y., for a few weeks' vacation, then will return to vaudeville next Fall."
Notes from the Silver Family Circus, Bert Silver, mgr. We are in our seventh week out and doing a wonderful business for a small show. At Belding and Ithaca, Mich., we could not accommodate the crowds, and had to close the ticket wagon both afternoon and evening of July 3. At Crystal, our home, we played to packed tents, afternoon and evening, our second stand there this season. We have made some changes in our roster since opening. Geo. Brooks and Bob Harris, comedians, and Patt and Patt, aerial performers, joined last week. With two fair acts we carry seven circus acts, and stage with five acts, making the best twenty-five cent show ever run in Michigan under canvas. The Silver Family Band and Orchestra are making a hit with their concerts. We have lost only one performance this season. Just added one more wagon, making this a twelve wagon show, twenty-five horses and thirty-five people.
New York Clipper, July 24, 1909, p. 605. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
California Frank writes: "Am playing to capacity of eight to ten thousand people and turning away thousands every night. Is the record I have established, and not only have done this, but am doing this every day with my show, California Frank's Wild West, at Hippodrome, Twenty-ninth and Columbia Avenue, Philadelphia. I opened here July 5, to a moderate house, paraded Tuesday, and Tuesday night had a full house and turned away over a thousand. From Wednesday night to Saturday night turned away from four to five thousand people each night. I hold over here another week, and if business keeps increasing, will have to call out the fire department. The feature acts of my show are: Mamie Francis and her dare-devil diving horses; Mlle. Sommerville, and her dancing horse, 'Columbus'; Princess Wenona, an expert rifle shot; Bee Gray, a rope thrower; Lorett and bucking donkeys, with three other vaudeville acts. In making the dive Friday night, the horse turned a little to one side, the water hitting Miss Francis in the face and breaking her nose."
Starret's Circus has been on the road since May 3, and has been playing to packed tents, owing to the good weather and our refined performances. Our parade is up-to-date and is led by Mr. and Mrs. Starrett, mounted upon very fine menage horses. They are followed by a very pretty band wagon, drawn by four calico horses, that are plumed so as to make the array the talk of the town. They are followed by many small carts, ponies and funny clowns. Between each selection that our eight piece band plays, the clown band, led by Howard S. Starrett Jr., creates laughter with zobo horns, and sets the youngsters in an uproar. But when he shakes his big clown feet at them they just scream with delight, and do not miss seeing him at the evening performance. On July 4 we all were invited for a sail on the bay on the launch of one of Port Washington's prominent citizens, who was, in return, treated to a real circus dinner. At 12 o'clock, the same night, after the big top had venn loaded, we had a clambake.
Mr. Gillette, advance agent of the Sparks Show, was cordially welcomed on his visit to the Starrett Show. The roster of our show follows: Howard S. Starrett, sole owner and manager; Mrs. Starrett, high class riding act; Howard S. Starrett Jr., leading and singing clown; Howard Sweet, cornetist and leader of band; John Fetter, trombone; Jas. Welch, bass; Frank Martin, trap drummer; James Smith, cornetist; John Ramor, alto; William Roff, clarinet; Herbert Brown, cornetist; John Lee House, clown; Harry Du Mond, clown; Eugene Lohrer, clown; Harmond Bros., acrobats; Mr. and Mrs. ___, flying trapeze; Harry Hill, cook; Ed Williams, boss canvasman; Jim Le Roy, pony boy; Baby Allen, pony boy; Al. Thompson, advance agent; Tom Thompson, advance agent; Charlie Biship, watchman.
Ringling news. When the plans of expansion of the Ringling Bros. are completed this Fall, Bridgeport, Conn., will have the largest circus winter quarters in the world. The present winter quarters on Norman Street are to be doubled. The plans call for one of the largest factories in the city, which is to be used for the manufacture of circus cars, and with its equipment it is said "the kings of the circus world" will be able to turn out anything and everything that is used in connection with the modern circus.
The greater winter quarters will be a big boom to Bridgeport. Heretofore circus winter quarters have been simply a winter home for the animals and a storage place for the equipment, but the Ringlings, with characteristic enterprise, have gone into the business of making their own vehicles of all kinds, manufacturing articles of use in the circus arena; and now are going into building their own railroad cars. About a year ago the Ringlings installed power for light manufacturing work at the winter quarters. The move was an experiment. It proved a success, and now the firm intends to go further into the manufacturing business. This move sets at rest the rumors of last Fall that the Ringlings intended to move the winter quarters of the show from this city to Baraboo, Wis. At the recent visit of the show to Bridgeport one of the attaches said it never had been the intention to move from this city form the fact that an Eastern quarters convenient to New York was a big advantage.
Barnum & Bailey notes. On July 3 we showed at Fargo, N. Dak., to good business. Then made a __ miles' run into Aberdeen, S. Dak., arriving there on Sunday afternoon, just in time for supper. It was the Fourth of July, and although it was Sunday, it made no difference to the people of Aberdeen, and firecrackers were heard everywhere. The next stand was Watertown, S. Dak., where business was fair. . . .
New York Clipper, July 31, 1909, p. 642. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Barnum & Bailey Show. There are two pleasure clubs with the B. & B. Show that are running opposition to each other. One is called the Indians, and the other is called the Never Again Club, and both are doing well. Sunday, July 18, in Mason City, Ia., both clubs had a blow-out, with great success. In Mason City Sam Bennett joined the show. Sam is one of the old Barnum & Bailey boys, and his many friends around the show were glad to see him back. Sam is one of the clowns, and he is a regular cut-up. At Ft. Dodge, Ia., July 20; Waterloo, 21, and Cedar Rapids, 22, all good towns, good business was done. At Iowa City, 23, Ray Thompson and several others from the Two Bills Shows visited our people. Henry Stanta's old woman gag is still going big, and it certainly gets the laughs in between shows. In this town a Salvation Army held services near the dressing room top for the benefit of the performers.
M. J. Downs, manager of the Cole Bros.' Circus, who has been in the hospital at Toronto, Can., since May, is now out of danger and will be with the show in a few weeks.
Fletcher Smith, for five seasons general agent of the Andrew Downie McPhee attractions, and last season press agent of the Al. F. Wheeler Shows, is renewing acquaintances in Manitoba and the Canadian West, with the Cole Bros.' Shows. The show, Mr. Smith writes, played Winnipeg, Man., July 18, to two big houses, and it was the fourth show of the season at that place. Between painting the advertising banners and handling the official programme, Fletcher finds but few leisure moments.
The Irwin Bros. (Wm. J. and James), head balancers and trapeze performers, inform us that they recently fell heir to more than $5,000, left them by their parents. The Irwin Bros. are with the Mighty Haag Shows.
C. J. Sassaria, a well known clown and performer, suffered a complete breakdown in health, and was compelled to leave the John Robinson Circus and go to Denver, Colo.
New York Clipper, August 7, 1909, p. 662. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Ringlings hung one over on the Denver Post and mayor of that city, Monday, July 26, showing Englewood, just outside of the city limits, to two packed and enthusiastic audiences. They kept the Ringlings from coming to Denver, but they could not keep Denver from coming to the Ringlings. There was excellent street car service, and the cars came to the show grounds loaded down with Denverites, who even rode on the tops of the cars in their rush to get to the show. They certainly enjoyed the performance, and every act was applauded and cheered. The entire population of the city of Denver were with the Ringling Bros.
At Colorado Springs there was a large party of our performers - forty-five in number - who chartered ten automobiles and went to the Garden of the Gods, which was enjoyed very much, especially by the foreign performers. There has been a wholesale purchase of Thermos bottles to keep hot coffee on these long runs. Robt. Stickney made his wife, Emma Stickney, a present of a very handsome peacock brooch, containing diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires. Business at the Springs was big. At Boulder, business was also good. About five hundred people from Denver came here on the interurban cars to see the show. They were unable to see it at Denver. One of the giraffes died at Colorado Springs.
Notes from the Barnum & Bailey Circus. In Davenport, Ia., July 24, Gus Kraft, a clown and mule hurdle rider with the show, while doing a clown jock, was struck in the eye with a rubber, which caused him to lose his sight for a few days. At the present writing he is working, and it will be only a matter of a few days before his eye will be as good as ever. In Dubuque, Ia., on Sunday, our baseball team played the town team a game. The score was 11 to 8, in favor of our boys, who have not lost a game this season. We feel justly proud of them. The next stand was Rockford, Ill., where business was fair. From there we went to Madison, Wis., and thence to Fond du Lac. Business was about the same in all these towns. For the past week we have been very short on working men, but the big show moves on just the same. The next town was Janesville, Wis. There we had a few visitors, among whom were George Holland and his wife, Rose Mellville. Many friends greeted them.
The Welsh Brothers' Newest Great Shows (The Big City Show) closed their Philadelphia season on Saturday, July 31. The principal factor in closing so early was that the management played all the available show lots in the city. Because the show was especially built to play in the Quaker city, it will not take the road during the remainder of the summer. The season lasted fifteen weeks, opening at Camden, N.J., and closing at Thirty-fifth Street and Mantua Avenue, Philadelphia. Uniformly good business was enjoyed. The weather, with one or two exceptions, was all that could be desired, and no performances were lost. The paraphernalia, wagons, tents, etc., are now in winter quarters in Philadelphia. The show opens again next Spring, making one day stands exclusively. The preparatory work for same will be started at once. The roster of performers, attaches and executive staff remained the same from the opening to the closing date.
A bogus circus agent, who represented himself as acting as advance for the Frank A. Robbins' Show, recently "worked" Milford, Mass., in most approved manner. The selectmen of Milford granted the circus a permit on Wednesday, July 14, to show there July 27. The agent who asked for th license gave a fictitious name, and said he formerly lived there and had relatives in town. After the permit was granted, the "agent" made arrangements for the lot, and then went around to various merchants to secure supplies, promising them generous figures for their goods. He thus secured from them is commissions in advance. From $2 to $10 was the varying size of the tip for orders ranging from $50 to $150, and it is thought the "agent" collected over $50 in his visits to the various merchants, who included grocers, marketmen, a baker, and dealers in grain and flour. At last advices he has not been located by the police.
The Yankee Robinson Two Ring Circus has been constantly enlarged ever since it left winter quarters last Spring. During the past week two large and handsome tableaux wagons, two new baggage wagons, from Begg's of Kansas City; a ring horse and a "January" mule were added. T. M. Sherbridge, who for the past three years was in advance of the Eastern "Buster Brown" Co. for Messrs. Leffler & Bratton, joined the show July 16, to look after the press back with the show. We are no prepared to show the "fourth estate" everything from soup to nuts. We spent Sunday, July 15, at Two Harbors, Minn., and many of the performers took advantage of the occasion and went to Duluth to visit the Sells-Floto Show, which was stopping there that day. W. O. Tarkington, our general agent, expects to add another bill car in the next few days. This will give us the strongest advance of any one train show on the road.
Buffalo Bill-Pawnee Bill notes. A baseball game took place at Peoria, Ill., between the ticket sellers of these shows and the Peoria Red Stockings. The score was 5 to 3, in favor of the show boys. George Baldwin, shortstop, and Frank Welch, made some sensational plays and very heavy batting. Fred Fabur played third base, and proved to be a big help to the ticket sellers. He made two home runs. Large sums of money were wagered on the result of the game. There are four baseball teams with the show, and the boys are very enthusiastic over that game. James Welch has umpired all of the games. The show is doing a very large business, and all the boys are happy.
Gollmar Bros.' Show issues a paper. The Clipper is in receipt, from F. E. Tryon, press agent of the Gollmar Bros.' Show, a copy of the Club News, a new paper published with the Gollmar Showk, twice a week, and giving news of that show and other circus organizations. It is a neat, newsy little sheet. Garry Vanderbilt is editor, Dan Kelly, secretary and treasurer, and Fred Whetten, reporter. Following ar a few extracts from the issue received:
"July 23 - This afternoon while the entry was on and the boys were threading the needle, Eddie Corriea, on of the entry riders, had the misfortune to have his horse get caught in the guard rope, and in some way it threw the animal, and the horse threw Eddie, his foot catching in the stirrup. The horse ran to the dressing room. The sliding was fine. However, it was a miracle he wasn't killed, for there was a general mix-up of horses. When the horse reached the dressing room Eddie's foot was released. He heaved a sigh of relief and hurried to put on his clown make-up. Outside of a few bruises, a few black and blue spots and a general shaking-up, he is all to the mustard. Potter says Eddie is trying to cop the rough rider act. Eddie, you are there with the goods and will show the circus world something yet.
"The Dode Fisk Shows are giving away a cow at each performance. Jameson, formerly the steward of the Gollmar Shows, now leads the cow in parade.
"Note. - This paper is published for circus people and will interest them All we ask is that no one get angry over anything that is said for no harm is meant, and we will not print anything that we think will offend anyone. If anyone's name is mentioned and they don't want it reported just drop a line or notify the editor and it will be stopped. Kindly overlook any words spelled wrong. Would request all friends to send in all news, for paper will be sent to all shows that will handle same. And you will find news of some friend, no matter where they are. Would like to hear from Pat Waldo, of the Barnum Show; Louie Palmondon, with the Robinson Show, and anyone else with the same shows, and someone else with all other shows."
Shriners Take Charge of Wheeler's Camels. Quite a novel event took place with the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows, at Wilton, Me., July 26, when a large delegation from the Kora Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S., of Lewiston, Me., visited Mr. Wheeler and at the night performance appeared in the grand entree, riding and leading the camels. Each member was attried in the fantastic garb of the order. The New Model Band preceded the caravan, rendering an Oriental selection, and as the show had a sandy lot and the day had been a hot one, the entire event was voted a howling success. After the performance Mr. Wheeler, who is also a Shriner, entertained the visitors with a banquet at the Hotel Wilton. Our baby camel has been christened "Kora," and Mr. Wheeler has promised the Temple the use of a real live camel for its next session. Business with the New Model Shows has been a big success all through the New England States, and the show left a reputation behind that will be capital in seasons to come.
Frank A. Robbins' notes. Our thirteenth week brings us out of the State of Maine. While business in Maine was good, it did not come up to the business we did in Massachusetts and Connecticut. All the troupe are sorry to leave the woods, especially our expert fishermen. Nobby Clark holds the big catch record. Ed. Holland caught the most trout and ___ salmon, and some members of our of our fishing club think Ed. would have beaten Nobby's big catch record if he had as much time to fish as our champion had. Business in New Hampshire is fair. Bellows Falls will be our first stand in Vermont and all indications point to big Vermont business. After leaving Vermont, we will show at Saratoga Springs, N.Y., Richfield Springs, N.Y., Atlantic City and other well known Eastern summer resorts.
Notes from Hunt's Silver Plate Shows. We are now in our twelfth week touring New York State, and still packing them in at every stand. . . . Robelien is now doing the "slide for life" as a free outside attraction. Prof. Le Brun, our popular bandmaster, leaves us Aug. 7, to join Guy Brothers' Minstrels, making his third season with the minstrels. George Barnard, of the Sensational Barnards, joined us at Elizabethtown, N.Y., on July 23. At Mineville, N.Y., 22, we packed them in to the ring bank, matinee and night. Chas. Hunt Jr., the youngest clown in the business, is daily delighting the hearts of the children all along the line with his comic trick donkey, "Jasper." John V. Gleason is a singing and talking clown, and James Roome, the veteran fun producer, is with us again, making his fourth season with the show.
Notes from the Lee Bros.' Shows. Business so far this season has been very good. At some stands we play to capacity. Our new canvas arrived and was erected for the first time July 10. Faranti, the high diver, joined 12, as did the Remington Sisters and Burt Richardson, novelty act. The show is giving the best of satisfaction along the line.
New York Clipper, August 14, 1909, p. 690. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Ringling Bros.' Shows. The show arrived early at Laramie, Wyo., a short haul to lot. Just as the elephant men were unloading the elephants, a dog ran amuck, barking, and stampeded eight of the elephants. The men and Doc Kealey used every effort and took desperate chances to stop them, but they got out on the prairie and were gone all day. The other bulls were run back in the cars as soon as captured. The last bull was captured at 4 o'clock p.m. Fred Stelling lost his dog in Greely, and stayed over to hunt him. He found the dog the next day at the Salvation Army Barracks. Stelling said that Bobby had been converted and joined the army. Stelling paid $25 reward, and joined the show at Rawlins, Wyo. At Salt Lake City the show arrived Sunday evening, and the streets were thronged with people at 10 o'clock p.m., to see the big show unload. One of the biggest crowds ever came to welcome the World's Greatest to town. We lost one of the big draught horses on the run. It got down in the cars. Our business at Salt Lake City was packed afternoon, and 4,000 people turned out at night. We are only one week behind the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show. There was a large delegation of the performers went out to Saltair and the Great Salt Lake. Minnie Davis had a fall at the evening performance, and was hurt, but not badly. At Provo, Utah, afternoon packed, night good; Ogden, afternoon big, night good.
From Barnum & Bailey Show. Sunday, Aug. 1, while the show made a jump from Elgin, Ill., to Kalamazoo, Mich., several of the people spent the day in Chicago, which was a great treat to them. While showing in Elgin, Ill., we had several visitors from Chicago, among them being Mrs. J. H. La Pearl, Dick Reno and wife, Orrin Davenport's baby and mother. While taking a picture of the baby, Orrin went through some stunts trying to make the baby laugh, which went to prove that when he got too old to ride he could fall into line with the rest of the old timers and be a clown. In Grand Rapids, Mich., Aug. 3, Len Sunland and wife met several of their old friends. Len looks as fat and rosy as ever. At the next stand, Battle Creek, Mich., just as the afternoon show was out, a storm came up and blew the menagerie top down. They hung sidewalls around the cages, and gave a show that night to a fair sized audience. At Lansing, Mich., next, big business. The general talk around the show now is "What are you going to do next winter?"
"Texas Jack," one of the cowboys with Idaho Bill's Wild West Show, at Dellwood Park, Joliet, Ill., suffered a sprained ankle Aug. 4, when the steer he was attempting to ride jumped the fence at the rear of the grounds. Frank Martin, another Westernee, happened to be standing in the way of the steer, and his foot was caught and severely lacerated. This did not number all of the casualties of the evening. A Cheyenne puncher by the name of Asper was thrown off a steer and injured slightly in his back. A Joliet man who happened to be standing near one of the outlaw horses when it was being saddled was kicked in the hand. Idaho Bill played at Dellwood Park Aug. 1-4, and went from there to Aurora.
Gollmar Bros.' Shows. At Portage, Wis., on Aug. 1, a special meeting of the Elks was held to confer the degree on two members of this show - Fred (Rube) Whettar and Fred Seymour, steward with the show. Baraboo, Wis., Lodge came over in automobiles and helped initiate the new members. The members of Gollmar Bros.' Show who are Elks and witnessed the work are: Chas. Gollmar, Harry Wirtz, F. E. Tryon, Doc Chapman, Geo. Messick, Walt Gollmar, B. F. Gollmar, Fred Gollmar, Robt. Altman, T. J. Forde, Garry Vanderbilt, Geo. Womboldt, Al. Mastif and Jim Morris.
A communication from Battle Creek, Mich., under date of Aug. 4, says: "During a windstorm which uprooted trees, blew down fences and telephone poles here today, the menagerie tent of the Barnum & Bailey Circus was blown down, and two women spectators seriously injured. A large crowd was thrown into a panic. None of the animals escaped. The storm was accompanied with heavy rain and hail, and nearly everyone received a drenching. In anticipation of the storm, the elephants and camels had been removed from under the canvas. Much praise is given the circus employees, whose prompt and efficient work alone prevented a more serious panic and loss of life. The usual show was given at night, but the menagerie tent was without covering."
Sun Bros.' Circus showed Caldwell, July 29, and a washout on the Pennsylvania R. R. delayed the train and caused the show to lose its stand at Newcomerstown, O. It was a great disappointment to the people of Newcomerstown, the town being crowded with prospective visitors to the show, the Sun Show being the only tent organizaton to visit that section this season.
Collier's Great London Indoor Circus, which opened its season in St. John, N. B., June 28, came to grief a few days ago. Several of the performers obtained engagements at various moving picture houses throughout the provinces and others managed to get to Boston, Mass.
"Denny" Lynch at Home. Cincinnatians warmly welcomed home D. Lynch. He was hearlding the coming to Covington, Ky., on Aug. 27, of the Sells-Floto Shows.
Mrs. and Mrs. W. E. Sands celebrated the twenty-seventh anniversary of their marriage on Sunday, Aug. 1, on Frank A. Robbins' advertising car No. 1, at Hackettstown, N.J. A feast of good things was cooked and they gave the boys a great treat, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all present. During the process of the dinner Mr. and Mrs. Sands were presented with a handsome silver card tray in recognition of their kind and courteous treatment of the boys. The boys all say that of all the different cars they have worked on they have never been treated better, and a long life toast was heartily given. The presentation speech was made by Andy Du Frane, who made one of the neatest the boys ever heard. Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Sands, Andy Du Frane, W. B. Sands, Robert Sands, Chester McDonald, Chas. Randlett, Willis Busby, Charles Whalen, Placer Wright, Peter J. Sullivan, and the well known song writer and all around good fellow, Billy Clark.
Dan Castello. An unsigned communication which has reached this office, states that Dan Castello, a veteran showman, died July 28, at Chicago, Ill., from dysentery. He was born in 1831. Interment was on July 31, in Rose Hill Cemetery, Chicago, beside his brother, John Castello, who died many years ago.
New York Clipper, August 21, 1909, p. 710. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Ringling Bros.' Show. Billie Sardell and Blossom Jacksom were married by a Justice of the Peace. Chas. and Ada Smith were entertained by relatives at Butte, Mont. Stanly Dawson closed at Butte to take charge of one of Stair & Havlin's Shows. We were the sixth show to play Butte this season. Our business afternoon was big and night packed. At Idaho Falls, Idaho, we only gave one performance, to packed tents. The dust was very bad. At Missoula, Mont., there were many Indians, and they all swear by the Ling Ling boys, as they call them at Spokane. We arrived Sunday, and many of the company visited different shows Sunday night. Business at Spokane afternoon was packed, and night packed. The Ralamos closed here, and the Three Scotch Macks take their place. Bob Miller also joined here. Lil Kerslake has xome very flattering contracts from Europe, and many more good offers. Bud Gorman, our equestrian director, has recovered from the mountain fever and is once more himself - the same old genial Bud. The big band, led by Al. C. Sweet, makes the natives get their hands together every day at the concerts, and it has to take encores every day. Al. says he has the best men that can be had. Business at Moscow, Idaho, afternoon, big; night, fair. Daisy Hodgini is making a big hit riding and never fails to catch the audience at the finish of the act. The Four Nevarros and Misses Neille [Nellie?] and Josie Jordan's wire acts are very pleasing to the big crowds, and receive many compliments for graceful work. Ed. Millett is keeping bachelor's ball since his wife went home.
Campbell Brothers' Show. Business with this Western show since the return from Canada has been better than any year previous. We are in the midst of harvesting now, but the only way that it affects the show is that workingmen are hard to get. . . . The big show programme, with W. R. Bailey as equestrian director, is being presented so that no waits are allowed to lag the interest of the audience. Among the feature acts with the show are Renello, forward somersault on a bicycle while leaping the gap; Lamy Bros., acrobats and aerialists; Hursley Troupe of acrobats and aerialists; Avollon Troupe of wire walkers and acrobats, Cecil Lowande, Orrin Hollis, Melvin Hollis, E. Crandell, Nettie Hollis and Nellie Lowande, bareback riders; Berre and Hicks, novelty gymnasts; Mizuno Troupe of five Japanese, Delnar and Hawatacs, equilibrists; Crandell Bros., Donahugh and Hamilton, Arthur Forbes, Gus Lind, ___, and the Morales Mexican Troupe, in novelty acts. The clowns are W. E. Donahugh, W. David, Herman Joseph, Charley Reger, Jack Barnella, Win Wallace, Chas. Barnett, Dick Pinkney, Ed. Allen, Lew Hamilton, Jas. Duval, Felix and Raleigh Wilson.
The side show, under the management of Col. J. C. O'Brien, has the following: Lew Aronson, Fred Brad and Henry Squigg (Arkansaw), lecturers, openings and announcements; Barney Kruntz, tattooed wonder; Alberti, wire-haired man; Lucy Wofkin, contortionist; Mme. Fay, mind reader and fortune teller; Zwin Ziugarra, snake enchantress; Irene Lawrence, entertainer; the Hermans, in magic; Fred Poole and Chas. Holloway's Georgia Minstrels, with band and orchestra.
Barnum & Bailey notes. The big show arrived in Port Huron, Mich., early Sunday morning, Aug. 8, and during the day everybody had a great time. Some of the boys spent the day fishing, others went bathing, while others enjoyed a sail. All in all, everybody had a great time. Harry Clemmens, Bill Scott and Al. Olifan had the misfortune to fall in the lake, but all three got out all right and came to the cars in wet clothes. Jack Correlli's wife joined the show here. Mrs. Correlli is riding races. On Aug. 10 we made our first stand in Canada, in London. Sam Bennett White, doing his burlesque on the balloon horse, fell to the ground and broke his arm and sustained many bruises, but he is on the lot every day and expects to go to work soon. During his absence his place is being taken by James McCammon, the clown. At Berlin, our next stand, business was fair. At our next stand, Toronto, we gave a big parade. Business was great - we turned them away. From there we jumped to Hamilton, where business was also good. Everybody is waiting for Sunday to come, when we will be back in the good old U. S.
Walter L. Main Announcement. J. Gifford writes: "We noticed the statement that Walter L. Main was to enter in some circus deal with a man by the name of Jones. There was also another rumor that Mr. Main and W. P. Hall was to take out a big circus next season. Both of these rumors are without foundation. Mr. Main is retired at his home in Geneva, Ohio. He does not get lonesome as he has his farms and various interests to look after. He is also buying and selling show property. Mr. Main, if he ever does start a circus under the Main banner, it will be in keeping, in every respect, with the Main name, and he will be sole proprietor the same as he was from 1886 to 1904, inclusive. Mr. Main says he would not enter in partnership with any one."
Loudon & Warren notes. The shows are meeting with success through West Virginia. The present tour will continue through Virginia and Tennessee, into Georgia, for the Fall and Winter. Roster is the same as on our opening date. The Wentzels Sisters, aerialists, continue to win the favor of the public. Ed. Warren, general agent, is billing the show heavily, and is doing excellent work all along the route. The "ghost" walks every Sunday, and all are well and happy.
George Lewis, a musician with F. A. Robbins Circus, had a narrow escape from death at Northampton, Mass., Saturday, Aug. 7. While sleeping near the car track he was struck by a car, and his scalp nearly torn off. After receiving medical attention he left for New York.
Chas. Hilderro and Sam Fisher left the Al. F. Wheeler Show, at Newport, Me., and jumped to Marlinton, W. Va., to join Sun Bros.' Show, with which they are now doing their double and single acts in the big show.
New York Clipper, August 28, 1909, pp. 730, 736, 738. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Lorenzo & Mauer's notes. After a satisfactory season of fourteen weeks, Lorenzo & Maurer's Pavilion Vaudeville Shows have closed their tenting season, and manager Chas. Lorenzo is busily engaged in organizing his medicine show for their annual Fall and Winter season in halls. . . . The firm of Lorenzo & Maurer has been dissolved, and the Pavilion shows will go out next season under the title of Lorenzo's Allied Pavilion Shows, with Chas. Lorenzo as sole owner and manager. During the winter season the show will be greatly enlarged, and it is manager Lorenzo's intention to make this attraction the neatest and best of all pavilion shows.
William E. Wheeler, a trombonist, died on Aug. 3, in a hospital at Saratoga, N.Y., from acute tonsilitis, followed by paralysis of the heart, after an illness of three days. He was thirty-three years of age. He had been with Ringling Bros., John Sparks, John Stowe and others. At the time of his death he was connected with Griswold's Show. Funeral was at his late home, Davenport, N.Y.
Starrett Show notes. Aug. 12, was Mr. Starrett's birthday, and we celebrated the event in Peconic, L.I. The band members, advance men and clowns presented Mr. Starrett with a fine watch fob, a large gold horseshoe affair, with a horse's head in the centre. The canvasmen and others with the show presented him with a neat pair of cuff button. Mr. Starrett at noon gave a very fine chicken dinner, with the best of vegetables, and winding up with pie and ice cream that made the boys smile. During the pleasant sunny day Mr. Starrett took a fine set of circus pictures, some of which will be sent to the Clipper. Everybody is singing, and the day is spent like a little rest for their season's faithfulness, until tonight, when the band wills strike up and the show will go on as ever.
Howard Starrett Jr., leading and singing clown, was hurt in one of the big comedy horse acts, but is now coming around all right. Ed. Williams, the boss canvasman and old reliable, while on parade, driving one of the high wagons, was bruised very badly about the face by the branch of an old tree. The boys laugh every time they see him coming, but they can't help it. While playing Southold, Mr. and Mrs. Starrett and Howard S. Jr. were invited to dinner by Mr. Post, where a very pleasant afternoon was spent. Howard Starrett Jr. visited our old friends, Pat Rooney and Marion Bent. . . .
Ringling Bros.' notes. At Moscoe, Idaho, it was our first trip here, our business was big. At Lewiston, Idaho, we showed on top of a high mountain, business good. At Walla Walla, Wash., we made a run of 179 miles in there, and made a parade and started the show at three o'clock. Business good. Geo. Hartzell has the Elk tooth fever again, and goes hunting for them every day where there are any Indians. Lew Jordan joined the show at North Yakam, Wash. He has just retured from the West Indies. Ernest Clarkonian, of the team of that name, is doing his triple somersault and catch every day. The cigarettes are not so plentiful in the State of Washington, and the smokers have to be very cautious as there is a fine for smoking them. To Vancouver, B. C., we made a long run from Ellensburg, Wash., and the second section of the baggage had a very narrow escape from what would have been a ery disastrous wreck. One of the wheels on a flat car broke in half, and the train ran a half mile before it was stopped. The car did not even leave the track. At Vancouver we did a banner business, two packed audiences at $1 a head. At Bellingham, Wash., big business. Nettie Green had a fall from her horse at Lewiston, Ida., and is laid up for a few days.
Washburn Show notes. We are in our nineteenth week, showing to big crowds at every stand. Our show is considered the best one ring enterprise in the tent line. . . . The show goes South for the winter season . . .
From Barnum & Bailey Show. Adrian, Mich., Aug. 16, was our first stand in the States after five days in Canada. The bunch was glad to get back to the States. At Fremont, O., 17, we had some very heavy rain, but it did not hurt business. At Lima, O., our next stand, Henry Stantz and Al. Olifan joined the show, after having been away for a week. Good business in Lima. At Mansfield, 19, Marie ___, while alighting from a street car, fell to the street and hurt the back of her head. Pat Valdo, clown with the show, is still making good, and is busy thinking up new jokes all the time.
While we were showing in Canada, Mrs. Winslow and Mrs. Webb were visitors for several days. The show is starting to book people, back, for next season. Let us hope they don't overlook anyone. In a few towns, back, we had some drinking water that had to be washed before we could drink it. Harry La Pearl pulled a new joke. Instead of using the big hat he is now wearing a big head of hair and a small hat. . . . In Springfield, 21, Jimmie Sullivan left the show to go home for the rest of the summer. Jimmie's health has been very bad and the only thing he can do is to rest for the remainder of the summer. We will miss Jimmie's singing in the dressing room quartette very much. Pat Curtin is going to take his place in the act of the Three Corellia.
Vincent Harig, clown: Geo. Lawrence, lot superintendent; Clinton Newton and Miss Lawrence joined the Leon W. Washburn Circus on Aug. 2. They closed with the Welsh Bros.' Big City Show, at Philadelphia, July 31. The Washburn Show has just terminated a highly prosperous tour of the Eastern States, and the past two weeks has been appearing in the Atlantic coast summer resort towns.
Sam Cohen, ticket seller and balloon man with the Frank A. Robbins Circus, closed his fifth season with the show at Woodsville, N.H., in July, and is now conducting a large palm garden and restaurant at Crescent Beach, Revere, Mass.
New York Clipper, September 4, 1909, pp. 764, 766. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
William Shafer, who is said to have been the first clown that traveled with Dan Rice's Circus, died in Newton, N.J., on Saturday, Aug. 28, aged eighty-three years. Shafer traveled for five years with Rice, going all over Europe. He became well known as a horseman, but eventually lost his money and returned to the villiage where he was born.
Chas. J. Sassaria, a showman, died on Aug. 25, at Philipsburg, Pa., aged thirty-six years. His last engagement was with the John Robinson Shows, season of 1909. His wife, Sophia Belle Rhay, and his son, Charles Jr., survive him.
Louis Falcon, known as Pecheco [or Pacheko], a young Cuban acrobat, with Ringling Bros.' Circus, died at the City Hospital, Seattle, Wash., Aug. 19, from acute pulmonary oedema.
From Ringling Bros. At Everett, Wash., we showed on a new lot, and the front door and side show looked very picturesque, as there was a fine fountain right in the centre, with black top on one side, and side show on the other. Big business was done at Seattle. The route of the parade was packed by the largest crowd ever seen in this city. Our afternoon business was big, and both nights were turnaways. Louie Pacheko died here after a very short illness. He was buried Friday from the undertaker's. There were ten carriages for those of the performers who wished to attend the interment. Charles Smith, superintendent of animals, and Johnnie O'Brien, jockey, were left at Spokane, in the hospital. Most of the Ringling performers and help visited the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition Friday morning. Hugh Harrison visited the show and relieved some of the boys of their summer's salary, and left them the value in diamonds. The private car, "Wisconsin," pulled in there with Al. and John Ringling on board. Frederic Thompson's "Polly of the Circus" Co. witnessed our Friday afternoon show. Roy McDonald and D. Curtis were made members of the T. M. A. at Tacoma, Wash., on the show lot, beside the cars. Business big. Al. Ringling has his little tent up now and has made arrangements with quite a number of people for the season of 1910, and is still doing a land office business. The line up is like the uptown ticket advance sale at Centralia, Wash., afternoon business big. We spent a quiet Sunday there. The Three Scotch Macks close with the show.
Notes from Barnum & Bailey. In Richmond, Ind., where we Sundayed, Aug. 22, there were twelve of our boys who joined the T. M. A. Lodge. We now have about seventy members of the T. M. A. with the show. Nearly all attended the meeting, and they were shown a great time by the boys of the Richmond Lodge. On Aug. 24, in Logansport, Ind., B. C. Wallace came over from Peru, Ind., in his automobile, to see the show, but he only stayed for the parade. Guess it was too hot for the governor. Aug. 25, at Lafayette, Ind., was another hot day, but still they came to see the show. We arrived rather late in this town, and when I was coming to the lot in the morning I heard a fellow say: "If they don't hurry up and give a street parade I won't wait to see it." Aug. 26, at Decatur, Ill., we struck a dry town, but big business was done. This was the hottest day we have had all summer. It was so hot that it was almost impossible to work, but all pulled through O. K. Threatening storm all day, but we had only just a little rain. Aug. 27, at Peoria, Ill., was another hot day. We certainly are getting all the hot weather we want. If we could only save part of it for November it would be great.
Frank A. Robbins' Show arrived at Frenchtown, N.J., from Bangor, Pa., fifty-seven miles. When we arrived at Frenchtown we found nearly ever resident at the station, all eager to greet Mr. Robbins, who was the first man to step off the train. It would be useless to try to mention all the old friends Mr. Robbins met, but the scene at the station will long be remembered. It has been twenty years since Mr. Robbins had shown at Frenchtown, though for five seasons the show had wintered there. During this period Mr. Robbins made many life long friends, who were on hand early to give their old comrade a rousing reception. Mr. and Mrs. Robbins received over thirty invitation to dine. To dine with all would be impossible, remarked Mrs. Robbins; not if we made them our guests, said the governor; so after the afternoon performance the party was escorted to the cook tent and dined with Mr. and Mrs. Robbins. Among the guests were: Mr. Herring, president of the National Bank of Frenchtown, and Mr. Loper and family. Mr. Loper was formerly manager of the Frank A. Robbins Show. Mr. Shields and family. Mr. Shields, our former master of transportation, and Mr. Loper are both in business in Frenchtown and are doing nicely. Sheriff Updycke, Mr. Platt, Mr. and Mrs. Franklin . . . Rain interferred with the afternoon business at Frenchtown, but we did capacity business at night.
Silver Show notes. Everything is moving smoothly around this show, and have only lost one night since the opening. The Burns Brothers closed 21, to go into vaudeville. New people to join were: Billey Koplin, grotesque clown contortionist; De Golda, clown and comedian, past two seasons with this show, and Baby Beatrice, vocalist. We also have Sandy Copeland, aerialist and gymnast; Patt and Patt, in two fine acts; Geo. Brooks, comedian; G. Earl and Dick Silver, jugglers; Eight Silver Family, band and orchestra. One canvas, 70x100, has been too small this season. We close at Carson City, Mich., which is ten miles from our headquarters, Saturday, Sept. 4, and open our opera house season at Greenville, Mich. Fair, Sept. 22-24. Most of the people now with the show will be with the opera house show. Next season the show will be enlarged. This we will have to do to accommodate our crowds. We will be found next season on our same route we have covered for years. We have thirty-five people with the show, twelve wagons and cars.
Winter Circus in Toledo. Preparations for the coming winter season are now being made at the headquarters of the White & Edson Winter Circus at Toledo, and a big season is being prepared for. The show will open about Dec. 1, and will be under the personal management of John S. White, who has secured the services of Sydney Wire as general agent for the show. The entire advance will be under Mr. Wire's personal direction, and to him will revert the work of booking and routing the show. A number of tip-top circus acts have been signed, and the show will eclipse any of its previous effores, both in strength and quality of programme. Winkert's Concert Band of twenty pieces will furnish the music. All new uniforms, with overcoats to match, have been purchased for the parade, in which the entire company will take part.
Gollmar Bros.' Shows. Tuesday, at Richland Center, Wis. we had to give three shows to accommodate the enormous crowds. Business with the shows is the best in the history of this organization. Everyone knows that through the Middle West no one or no show has anything on the Gollmar Bros. They simply swear by it, knowning it is the cleanest and best circus touring that part of the country.
The Baraboo, Wis., Lodge of Elks went to Reedsburg, Wis., and put through the following boys with the Gollmar Bros. Show: Pop Burk, Dan Kelly, Will Crumby, Frank ___, Jack Sutton, Geo. Parsons, Ralph Lane and Dell Smith.
Mrs. H. Dreyfuss, mother of Mrs. Homer D. Hobson, of the famous equestrian Hobsons, died at Chicago, Ill., Aug. 23, from a stroke of apoplexy, aged sixty-five years.
New York Clipper, September 11, 1909, pp. 782, 790, 792. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Walter S. Wentworth was born July 22, 1825, and at the age of ten years he joined a circus and soon became a contortionist. He continued with circuses for many years, doing a contortion act as well as flying rings and a monkey act. In spite of his eighty-four years he is still in harness, and only last month ws filling an engagement at the Nickelodeon, Boston, Mass., where he was giving twelve shows daily. Mr. Wentworth is descended from people noted for their longevity. His paternal grandfather lived to be one hundred and four years of age, and his grandmother died at the age of one hundred and nine years. His father was ninety-eight and his mother ninety-five when they died. In length of active work, as well as in age, his is a marvel, and is undoubtedly the "daddy" of them all in his line of work. He has a daughter sixty-three years of age, and a son, Harry, who is a well known gymnast and equestrian.
The Leon Washburn Shows, with J. W. Brownlee at the helm, are entertaining the natives of the land of luscious peaches and the succulent bivalves (Delaware and Maryland). This is the first appearance of this popular tented enterprise in this territory, and since entering here the show has been received in a most cordial manner. Business have been very good so far. Dover, Del., gave the show record houses. Smyrna, Middletown and Newark, all in Delaware, were also satisfactory stands. Elkton, Md., was A1. John De Lama and Animal Congress closed a nineteen weeks' engagement with the show at Harrington, Del., on Aug. 28, and was succeeded by John White Jr. and animal combine, at that point. "Balbroma," the star fire manipulator, is a new arrival in the side show and annex. His act is making good. The "Great Wirette" (Paul Gordon), in a new conception tight wire act, and Alexander, the Great Brisson aerial teeth contortionistic marvel, are both sensational "hit-making" acts in the big show programme. Vincent Harig and James Flynn, the premier joeys, are received with shouts of laughther at every performance. Their clown entrees are all original, and, besides, are dressed in a brilliant manner. An old Irish lady in the audience the other day, after witnessing the work of these clowns, remarked: "They were the very divils of comical jokers." Chester De Rose is the general agent of the show, and is doing splendid work in advance. The country people are being attracted in big numbers, all the result of Mr. Rose and his corps of hustling advertisers. The new dress of tents were erected at Smyrna, Del., Aug. 26, and they make a most ornate appearance. The new sixty foot Pullman sleeper was added to the train 31 at Snow Hill, Md. The show is now one of the best equipped smaller shows touring the country.
The Dan R. Robinson Combined Shows report big returns. They have just purchased the Holder Trained Animals, consisting of educated steers, bears, etc., and have added them to their equipment. Alfred Stadler, trainer, recently with the Ringling Shows, will have charge. Capt. Ricardo and Major Crawford, with their trained lions, are receiving much praise at every performance.
Al. F. Wheeler Show notes. Our New England tour will come to a close Sept. 9, when we re-enter New York State, and then head directly South for a long season. So far this season has been the most prosperous one ever enjoyed by the New Model, and the Spring of 1910 will find this concern the largest and finest wagon show in America. The following headline acts are now meeting with success in our arenic programme: The McGinleys (Eddie and Lottie), aerialists; the Millette Bros., acrobats; Amour and Mayo, comedy bar act; Carl Nemo, barrel jumper and hand balancing; May Hamilton, menage rider; Sam Jackson, hurdle mule and "Pete Jenkins"; Frank Mayo, Ed. Bell and Al. F. Wheeler Jr., clowns, and Capt. H. Snider's trained animal paradox. Will T. Miller has charge of the annex, with a strong line of attractions, and business in this department has been big all the season.
Al. E. Hutchinson is with the Buffalo Bill Show, doing is banjo and singing act in the concert, and police duty in the big top. The concert roster also includes: Tommy Hayes, aerial artist; Leon Foster, impersonator; The Alabama Octette, the Welsh Comedy Three, Irish sketch; Santanka, Fakir. The Buffalo Bill Show is routed to Nov. 19, closing at Richmond, Va., and will winter at Trenton, N.J.
Chas. E. Griffin has recovered from a three months' illness in the Sulphur Springs Hospital, and has returned to his home at Albia, Ia.
William H. Whidden, one of the best known musicians in Boston, Mass., and also known in a wide territory, died at his home in Everett, Mass., Sept. 1. Mr. Whidden was connected with Bird's Circus before the Civil War, and was connected at one time with Morris Brothers's and Buckley's Minstrels.
New York Clipper, September 18, 1909, p. 806. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Prof. Hutchings, Barnum's Lightning Calculator and Lecturer, was born in 1832, in the Tenth Ward, New York City, and entered the show business over fifty years ago. He was at Barnum's Museum, Ann Street and Broadway, in 1860, as lightning calculator and lecturer, and traveled all over this country with the Barnum Circus. For the past twenty-six years he has acted as lightning calculator and lecturer at Austin & Stone's Museum, Boston, Mass., where he is still employed.
New York Clipper, September 25, 1909, pp. 834, 840, 841. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Barnum & Bailey. We certainly were disappointed in Kansas City, as we looked for a big day's business, and we only had a fair attendance in the afternoon and the same at night, and no one knows why. We had a little rain that day, but not enough to hurt business. At our next stand, Sept. 6, in St. Joseph, Mo., we had rain all day. We did not give any parade, but gave two shows in the rain. Our next stand was Topeka, Kan., where we did not show at all, as the lot was so bad with water that we couldn't get on it. Next stand was Salina, Kan. Following this wa Great Bend, Kan. At last the sun shone and everybody forgot all about the bad weather. It was a very hot day - so hot that Kid Lavell went out, and it was about an hour before he came to. These dry towns certainly help the boys save money.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's New Model Shows. We are in our twenty-second week, having just completed our tour of New England States, and our business having been the best ever enjoyed by this show through that section of the country. . . . We make a few stands in New York State, after which we head directly South for a long season.
Notes from the Great Wagner Show. We have closed a very successful season, and are in our new quarters, at Germantown, O. Geo. E. Wagner, better known as Jolly Jenaro, the clown juggler and slack wire performer, is owner of the show. The new home and winter quarters are built up-to-date in every particular, with workshops for all the different departments. The wagons will all be overhauled, and the show will again play Ohio next season.
Miles H. Fisher Jr., age three years, son of Ruth Parkinson (Mrs. M. H. Fisher), died from pneumonia, in St. Paul, Minn., on Sept. 1. Mrs. Fisher became prominent in circus life while traveling with the Sells Bros., Forepaugh-Sells and Pawnee Bill Shows.
Albert Gaston, veteran clown, is with Coulter & Coulter's Famous Dog and Pony Show. The show, Mr. Gaston writes, is doing a big business in Missouri and Iowa.
Joe Deltorelli has signed for the Three Casinos for next season, with the Ringling Brothers' Show.
Word was received recently by W. H. O'Hara, of Bridgeport, Conn., treasurer of the Benevolent Order of Tigers, to the effect that Ray Thompson, the owner of the horse, "Joe Bailey," who does a high school act, was kicked in the head while performing at Keokuk, Ia., recently, lost an eye and sustained a fracture of the skull as a result, but is convalescing at the Keokuk Hospital. Mr. Thompson is a resident of Bridgeport and the owner of the Brooklawn Riding Academy.
King Cole, ventriloquist and lecturer, is with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. When the season closes he contemplates going to London, and while there will look up ideas for a new act.
Ringling news items. The weather in California has been very hot so far, and the rule to cast off straw hats on Sept. 1, has been extended to Oct. 1 by a large vote for Oct. 1. John Agee has been engaged for the Rhoda Royal Winter Circus. Reno McCree lost his dog at Roseburg, Ore., and has not found it as yet. Reno has been back looking for it for three days. At Sacramento, Cal., we did a big business afternoon and night. At Santa Rosa, Cal., we had many visitors. J. H. Gray, formerly of Sells and Gray, is here in the real estate business. He is also the mayor of Santa Rosa, and met many old friends in and out of the dressing room. Mr. Gray is highly esteemed here for the Santa Rosa citizens think the world of him. There is also a town named after him - Grayton, Cal. Lester Belford is entertaining his mother, sister and brothers here. Lil Kerslake is breaking a tight rope pig. The double somersault automoble turned a double twister at Santa Rosa, but the girl was not hurt. The lot was another one of those cracked lots. Jenks is keeping his gold pieces in the safe. Bruce St. Clair, of the Belfords, has many visitors - relatives and friends - here. Napa, Cal. is a great wine town, and there was quite a lot of wine bought there. Lollie Marnello rejoined the show at Sacramento, Cals. She was taken ill at Kokomo, Ind., July 12.
Oakland, Cal., Sept. 5, 6, was the first Sunday show this season. There were many visitors there. The mother and sister of John Agee were there, and Harry Potter, Fred La Mont, Paul McCullough entertained friends there. Other visitors were for the Bard Bros., Geo. Auger, the giant; La Bell Carmen and Sister, Theol Genero, mother and father of Geo. Jackson. Alexander Patti looked like a French count when he walked on the lot Sunday, dressed up with a high hat. He made the clowns laugh. Business Sunday was good and Monday big. At Santa Cruz we arrived early, and as that town is right on the seashore, the the dressing room half a block away from the beach, we had a nice time three. After the night show a great many of the ladies and gentlemen of the show went bathing. Business was good. At Salina we had fair business. George Hartzell introduced for the first time there his original creation, a burlesque of Dr. Cook's discovery of the North Pole, and it is a big hit and will be put on at 'Frisco. We did not make any parade the first day, owing to Admission Day parade. Visitors here were Mrs. Royal, Mrs. Tom Benero, Mr. Dubblardo, the sheep man. The show has made a big hit here. Business has been good, but not up to former visits. Mrs. Sadie Kasino made Mrs. Hartzell a present of a handsome tea service and a pair of bronze vases. Mrs. Mose Davis has been on the sick list, as has Jimmie Spriggs. Geo. Hartzell presented his wife with a fin pair of diamond earrings, and George Jr. a diamond ring. The weather in 'Frisco has been very pleasant. There were many parties for Chinatown and other places of interest during out five days' stay there. Lew Jordan has returned from a trip to Alaska.
Barnum & Bailey news. The big show spent Sunday, Sept. 12, in Bartlesville, Okla, this being Al. Olifan's birthday. Although he wouldn't tell his right age, he showed the boys a good time. Bartlesville is a new town, and is certainly a good little show place. On Monday, 13, we had a very heavy rain at night. During the night performance McCammon fell while doing a clown joke, the burlesque on the balloon horse. Mac broke his arm and one rib, and was bruised about the body. This makes the second clown that has met with the same accident this season. Our next stand was Coffeyville, Kansas, to fair business. Following that was Joplin, Mo., where we met the La Sard Bros., who are now playing in vaudeville.
Springfield, Mo. was our next stand. There Mr. Mountford, representative of the White Rats, visited the show in behalf of the White Rats with the show. His visit was pleasing to everybody. After the night show a scamper was held at the Connor Hotel, which was a great success. Mr. Mountford made a speech that any member or any outsider would certainly appreciate, and the general opinion around the show is that he is a splendid man for the White Rats and also for the managers, as his idea is that the actors should do what is right by the managers, and the managers do the same by the actors. At Pittsburg, Kan., Sept. 17, Otto Ringling, Mr. Shipp and Mickey Graves went to visit the Wallace Show. On Sunday, 19, the Elks with the show are going to have a blow-out, which you will be told about in the next issue of this paper.
J. Henry Rice, general agent of the Frank A. Robbins Sows (Bergen Amusement Co., proprietors), has closed a successful season with the show. The show, Mr. Rice states, made more money this season than it ever has. It will go out next season in good shape. The headquarters will be located at Jersey City. The Frank A. Robbins Show will close the season at Dunellen, N.J., Sept. 25.
Willie Dashington, of Dashington and Son, vaudeville performers, died Aug. 13, from consumption, aged twenty-three years. He was born June 1, 1886, and had been in the profession since 1897. He was a wire walker, club juggler and clog dancer. His father, J. D. Dashington, survives him.
New York Clipper, October 2, 1909, p. 867. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Frank A. Robbins' Circus notes. Long Branch, N.J., on Sept. 18, was one of the biggest day's business of the season. This was the third show for Long Branch, as early in the summer, Ringling Bros., and the Buffalo Bill Shows made this resort. During the day we had the pleasure of entertaining Mr. Clark, who is said to be the oldest living clown, and Jake Showles, one of the oldest living riders, and father of Billy Showles, our former rider. On Sept. 20, at Keyport, N.J., and Sept. 21, at Rahway, N.J., business was good at both stands. Billy Wells, "Iron Skull" man, of Larnum show fame, was the guest of the show today, and met many of his old friends. Sept. 22, at Sommervile, N.J., Master Milton and Winona Robbins returned to school, after spending a very pleasant vacation with the show. Milton returned to the Newton Military Academy at Newton, N.J. Last Spring Milton passed all examinations with high honors, and this year his expectations are big. Miss Winona returned to the Misses Metcalf Academy at Tarrytown, N.Y., chaperoned by Mrs. F. A. Robbins.
Mr. and Mrs. Del Fuego have closed their engagement with the Yankee Robinson Show owing to the serious illness of Mrs. Del Fuego, who is now at her mother's home in Perth Amboy, N.J. Mr. and Mrs. Del Fuego wish to extend their sincere thanks to their friends' with the show for assistance rendered them in their hour of need.
New York Clipper, October 9, 1909, p. 891. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Happenings of 101 Ranch Wild West. . . . in its twenty-fourth week, and at present touring the Lone Start Stated, playing to phenomenal business at every stand. At Shawnee, Okla, where we exhibited Sept. 17, opposing three of the largest, we played to packed tents . . . At McAlester, Okla., where we exhibited Sept. 20, we opposed two leading organizations, and "packed them" both afternoon and night. . . . Jos. C. Miller, who was called to the Ranch on important business, has returned, and hi commanding figure is seen leading the grand cavalcade on his superb Arabian charger, Ben-Hor, at each performance. The football game as played by the Indians and cowboys makes a decided hit daily, and numerous wagers are made on each side as to the outcome of the game, and the amount of enthusiasm displayed by each side keeps the audience in a continuous uproar. We have purchased the celebrated high school horse, "Skyrocket," whose performances are second to no high school horse in the country. Edward Arlington, associate owner, is arranging the itinerary in such a manner that we will play continuously, including Sundays, until the close of the season. A number of new features will be added to this show for the season of 1910, and some novelties unheard of in the Wild West line will be produced by this organization for the first time. . . .
Notes from Ringling Bros. At San Jose business was good and weather very hot. The same conditions prevailed at Visalia and Bakersfield. Al. Miaco had a visitor there - the sister of Fanny Miaco. Mrs. Mose Davis had visitors as did the Belfords. James Spriggs is up and around again, but is not working. Mrs. Amy Milvo is on the sick list, but will be all right in a few days. Prof. Wulf is working every day on the Shuman horses, and will have them doing some fine work next season with a new entree. Reno McCree has not heard anything from his dog as yet. Mrs. Al. Sweet has been a visitor. She left for home at Los Angeles, Cal. Business at Los Angeles the first day, afternoon and night, was packed. Second day, afternoon good and night good. Visitors were Burt Johnson and Chas. Ryan, formerly detective with this show; Albert Guyer, the tumbler; Geo. Auger, the giant, and many others. The show goes to San Diego, Santa Ana, San Bernardino, thence to Phoenix, Ariz. "The Roosevelt in Africa" and "Dr. Cook's Discovery of the North Pole," and the balloon gag are big hits in the clowning. The show has bought a very large tiger from Chutes Park, at Los Angeles.
Notes from Al. F. Wheeler's Shows. After the most successful season in its history, the New Model Shows will close season at Parkesburg, Pa., on Saturday, Oct. 16. Seven states have been visited, and while the mileage is probably the greatest ever made with a wagon show, we have not lost a single performance. The show goes into winter quarters at Oxford, Pa., where Captain Snider will again be at the helm during the winter months. As soon as the outfit is comfortably stored for the winter, the governor will start for the South for a few weeks' rest, after which he will return to winter quarters and commence active preparations for the season of 1910, it being his intentions to make the New Model the largest and finest wagon show in America for next season's tour.
Al. G. Barnes' Trained Wild Animal Circus will have its headquarters in Spokane, Wash., in the near future. Mr. Barnes has closed with the Interstate Fair Association for winter quarters at the fair grounds, where animals will be trained for next season's work. He has also awarded contracts for a big ___, twenty-two cars for animals and wagons, and six standard coaches for performers, and will send out a circus next Spring, also playing five of his animal acts over the Pantages' circuit the coming winter.
Diavolo Sent to the Work House. Diavolo, who will be remembered as the loop the loop bicycle rider, whose act made a senation with the Barnum & Bailey Circus some years ago, is practically destitute in Milwaukee, Wis. He is confined at the House of Correction in that city.
The Fred Locke Show closed the tenting season Oct. 1, and will be wintered at Pancoastburg, O.
Wm. B. Marks, clown, just closed a very successful season with the Frank A. Robbins Show Sept. __, at Dunellen, N.J. Mr. Marks says the show had a very good tour, playing to crowds at all stops.
New York Clipper, October 16, 1909, pp. 909, 917. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Frank James and the Robinson Shows. With the Famous Robinson Shows and Holder Country Circus, comprising twelve attractions, al fresco, is a talking moving picture tent display. This details, by scenes and dialogue, "Live Adventures of Jesse James." Of course, the depicted hold-ups, robberies and murders are sensationally lurid and as realistic as the artist could make them. The attraction has proved very popular. But here was a happening the like of which never happend before since the great bandit, Jesse James, was shot and killed by the Ford boys, Bob and Charley. It will be remembered that Cole Younger and Jim Dalton, the modern Dick Turpins, were members of the outlaw band. In the eloquent announcement which the lecturer makes from the front platform daily these names are brought forward prominently, and especially that of Frank James, the brother of Jesse.
When the Famous Robinson Shows were playing a week's engagement at the Harrisburg, Ill., county fair, Sept. 13-18, Frank James, he of the lurid, sensational fame as bandit, now a respected citizen of St. Louis, Mo., was the starter for the races. As may well be imagined, there was consternation among the managers, ballahooers and attendants of the moving, talking picture show that features the "James Boys in Missouri." Would Frank, erstwhile one of the two greatest and most daring hold-up men, descent on the Wild West attraction and "shoot it up?" Would he, on seeing the true-to-life representations of the dark pages in his history, first shoot everyone connected with the show, then serve an injunction on their heris to "never again" produce the expose? But the show people, by virtue of their past experience, were philosphers. They had met trouble before, as well as wet weather and kindred ills. They possessed their frightened souls with patience, hoped for the best - but expected the worst. In other words, they "faced the music." "If we must die," said the announcer sadly, but firmly, as behooved the real showman, "let us die bravely and like heroes. We will, at any rate, emulate the passed-9over comrades of the survivor who may be thirsting for our blood - we'll died with out boots on."
That afternoon - Monday, 13 (unlucky?) a stranger of medium height, with smooth face and hair of grayish cast, appeared at the ticket box. He had on a fashionably cut suit of light color, very broad shoulders, and wore a black, wide-brimmed hat. His shoes were fine leather, but heavy-soled. He bought a ticket and went into the show. He sat on a front seat and was very attentive during the performance. When the twenty-seven minute show was over the stranger went out and introduced himself to the ticket seller as Frank James. The roll ticket man nearly fell off his high seat. He could only stare at the smiling, suave stranger with mouth agape, while heavy beads of sweat started out and rolled down his whitened face. "I want to say to you," said James, "that you have gotten a good representation of the scenes and hold-ups, including bank-robbings and killings of my late brother, myself and the band, only they do not tell the half of the tragedies. I was deeply interested in your talking pictures. Let me say something for you." And stepping out on the front platform, Frank James removed his hat, announced his name and gave the immense crowd that had gathered by that time a talk. Frank recommended the show; the depicted scenes and situations. He told of his reformation some years ago, and contended that these illustrations served as a good moral lesson. They showed the cause and effect of crime and proved a deterrent to wrong doing.
Mr. James was introduced to all members of the Jesse James show party by Iola, "the girl who sings with the ban." She had met him earlier in the day when he congratulated her on her rendering of the F. B. Haviland popular ballad, "Let's Go Back to Baby Days." Frank James, who was the horse race "starter," afterward recommended the moving-talking show from the judges' stand to the assembled thousands in the grandstand and on the ground. The afterpiece came when the ex-hero bandit took dinner with the manager of the Famous Robinson Shows and his family.
Buck Bailey's Wild West. Buck Bailey writes: "We are at present sliding across Lake Huron on the steamer City of Alpena, en route to the Cleveland Hippodrome. The Indians, ponies and punchers are in good form, and after a five weeks' sojourn in Michigan the show boys unite in voting the State and its people the best yet. Ten minutes after the trick was loaded on the boat, the butcher had sold his stock of Clippers, and Crazy Horse is a present trying to read one upside down - instinct, I guess."
Heber Bros.' Greater Tent Show will be at their winter headquarters at 288 E. Seventeenth Avenue, Columbus, O., after a successful tour of three thousand miles in the Western States. They will winter their people, horses and wagons at the same headquarters.
From Cole Bros.' Advance. The advance of the Cole Bros.' Shows has closed for the season. The first advance car closed with a record that has never before been made. It made every town included in the itinerary, and did not lose a day throughout the season. This is an unprecedented record for advance cars. This car opened with a crew of twenty-three men, and closed with fourteen of them. Out of the fourteen that closed with the car, twelve of them were men who had been with the car at least two seasons. Only one man was discharged from this car and no new men were employed. Four were transferred to the other car, and three left to accept winter positions, and one was compelled to return home, owing to injuries received while bannering. Every man on the car had a record of over 1,000 sheets, and three of them had gone over the 1,500 mark. The average was 634 sheets. The advance had been out twenty-five weeks, had made 150 towns, and did not lose a day. The season was a prosperous one, and with the exception of the accident that befell proprietor M. J. Downs at the early part of the season, there has been not the least ground for complaint. The men of the advance who closed with the cars have all signed up for the 1910 season. There will be little change, if any, in the advance for that season. Some of the men who closed this season have been with the show since its organization, and consider no other.
Notes from Ringling Bros.' Shows. At Douglas, Ariz., we only gave one show, to good returns. There was quite a lot of drawn work bought in Old Mexico, as we were only over the line. We started the afternoon at 2:30, gave the entire show as usual, and packed up and got out of town at 6:30 p.m. At El Paso we arrived early and did big at both shows. Chas. Smith, the superintendent of menagerie, is up and around again. He rejoined the show here, having been ill since we left Bellingham, Wash. Mr. Mijarez had his wife here to see him. Robledillo was bisited by some bull fighter friends from Old Mexico. We made the run out of El Paso to Abeline, Tex., arriving at six o'clock Saturday morning. Business at Abeline afternoon was packed. Our agent, Sam McCracken, has made a flying visit back to the show. At Dallas we arrived Saturday afternoon at 2:30. The entire Mollie A. Bailey Show paid us a visit. They had their car over Saturday and Monday. John Rogerman, B. and O. agent, was also a visitor. Our business in Dallas was the largest we have ever done there. We had them packed in at both performances, and two big turnaways. Waxahachie at afternoon was big and night was good.
Cole Bros.' winter quarters burned. Fire at Harbor Creek, Pa., Saturday morning, Oct. 9, destroyed the winter quarters of the Cole Bros.' Cicus, and put the management into a quandry as to where the show should winter. The property will probably be scattered among the farmers in the vicinity, until other arrangements can be made. The employees were tarring the roof when a kettle of tar boiled over. They became panic stricken and did nothing to check the flames until it was too late. Several were injured in jumping. F. J. Walker, of Erie, owned the building, and stated it cost ___, with an insurance of $1,000. Whether it will be rebuilt is not known. Ed. Knupp, general agent, is at the scene. All the hay, grain, etc. for winter was destroyed. Martin Downs, the owner, is still ill in a Toronto hospital.
George H. Hicks, old time acrobat, died at his home in Cincinnati, O., on Oct. _, from catarrh of the stomach. He began his career with the Silverberg Show at Columbus, in 1873, and afterward became a minstrel and traveled with the Bill Ashton and Sam Sharpley Minstrels. For three weeks George and his brother, Lou Hicks, of Cincinnati, were with the Angol-American Circus. His last engagement this season was with Jack Shield's Great Southern Circus. He was fifty-three years old.
New York Clipper, October 23, 1909, p. 942. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Ringling Bros.' Show notes. Our business at Fort Worth, Tex., was bigger than at any time in the history of the Ringlings at Fort Worth, as we turned the people away at both performaces, and packed them eight deep on the track. Texas, thus far, has been up to the high water mark in attendance for us. During the night performance the chariot driven by John Slater was overturned, and the driver was thrown out. The team made the first round without a driver, struck the other chariot and righted itself. Slater caught it on the second time around, catching the reins and jumping in. He finished the race and no one was hurt. Our first stand in Oklahom was very good and the weather fine. At Shawnee, Okla., we had the first rain since June 24, and it did rain, too, but stopped in time, and our afternoon business was good. We were the fourth show there this season - 101 Ranch, Buffalo Bill and Pawnee Bill and Wallace Show all ahead of us. Artie Adair was with the boys all day there. He stopped off at Shawnee on his way to Oklahoma City. One of the drivers was bitten by a big spider and had to send for the doctor. He suffered considerable pain. At Lawton one-third of our audience were Indians. We arrived late there. Prof. Edward Wolff is working on a new trick that shows a horse rolling a barrel six feet high. He is making great progress with the entree for next season. It will no doubt make a big hit.
Cole Brothers' Circus will winter at Corry, Pa., which is thirty-seven miles from Erie. Since the destruction of their buildings at Harbor Creek on Oct. 9, the management have been negotiating with the Business Men's Exchange of the little town. Satisfactory terms were reached, whereby the circus paid $750 and the town $250 for the rental of the fair grounds, and large warehouse of the United States Radiator Co. The horses, four elephants, two camels and other animals will be housed at the fair grounds, while the caged beasts, wagons and other paraphernalia will be placed inside the big brick warehouse. The villiage has offered Cole Brothers a ten acre lot free, if they will build permanent quarters in Corry.
J. J. Richards has been engaged by the Ringling Bros. as bandmaster of the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' Circus next season. Mr. Richards is now solo cornet and official mail man with the Barnum & Bailey Show.
Wheeler's Show closed the season at Parkersburg, W. Va., Oct. 16.
Notes from the H. W. Freed new show. The show recently closed a very successful season of twenty weeks in Michigan, Indiana and Illinois, and is in winter quarters at Niles, Mich. The show will be better than ever next year, with an entire new outfit. Mr. Freed and wife sail on Oct. 20 for Dublin, Ire., to visit relatives, and while abroad will visit points of interest in Great Britain, returning home in about two months.
Martin J. Downs, proprietor of Cole Bros.' Shows, died in Toronto, Can., early on the morning of Tuesday, Oct. 19.
Richard Silver (Dick) died from a stroke of paralysis Oct. 10, at the home of his son, ?. Lote Silver, in Traverse City, Mich. Mr. Silver was nearly eighty-three years of age, and was one of the oldest showmen in America, having been identified with the show business for seventy years. He was one of the first men in America to black his face in the minstrel business, he and a brother, Jas. K. Silver, having started their stage careers with the Morris Bros., Eph HOrn and other noted minstrel men of their day. Mr. Silver was a native of Groton, Vt., and for fifteen years made his home in Boston, where he first stared in professional life. He was a violinist of note in his day, and played that instrument for sixty years. His last active service on the stage was with the show put out by his son, Bert Silver, eight years ago. He is survived by his wife and five sons - Berto, ?. Lote, Jas. F., Harry F. and Olen. All five sons are in the theatrical business. The family was well known for many years as the Silver Family. The remains were interred in the family plot at Acme, Mich.
New York Clipper, October 30, 1909, p. 967. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Robinson Shows. At Cairo, Ill., in the steel-girt arean of Famous Robinson Shows, Thursday evening, Oct. _, Margaret Leggett was married to Richard Warner. Judge Horace Hannon performed the ceremony, which was with ring service. Harry Van Gordon, best man; Mme. ___, "the leopard queen," bridesmaid, Tom L. Wilson, press agent, master of ceremonies. Witnesses, the crowd inside the animal tent. The groom, in professional life, is known as Captain Ricardo, the well known lion trainer. He has had twenty years' experience with cages lions and other furry animals of the cat species, with Barnum's, Hagenbeck-Wallace, and Bostock, at Coney Island. The bride, now a member of the Buckeye Belles, of Robinson Shows, makes her home in Chicago. Her professional name is Marguerite Chesterfield. She is a clever soubrette. The ceremony was performed in a lion's cage with "Prince," male, and females Julia and Sultana looking peacefully on.
From Ringling Bros.' Circus. At Enid, Okla., business was big. The two Bills' show was there ahead of us. Our show pulled out of there in eight sections, for Tulsa, 124 miles away. At Tulso the afternoon business was big. Chas. Smith had a very narrow escape while doing his balloon act. As he was being pulled up to the top of the canvas, his wire broke. He was only five feet from the ground, however, and the fall did him no harm. Among the recent visitors was Bill Cross, Billy Howard's old partner. Ed. Ward, of the Wards, has presented his sister Jennie with a pair of diamond earrings. Fred Stelling has signed to go with the Rhoda Royal Circus this winter. At Muscogee our business was big. Evan Prosser, the representataive of the B. & O. was a visitor there. Burt Weaver, of the commissary department has been under the weather with rheumatism for some time. He is a little better now. The closing date has been announced. It's Nov. __, at Clarksdale, Miss. There are all kinds of maps in demand, as the boys are looking for the best way to get home from there. Card clubs are laying low in Texas, as there is a fine for the using of any playing cards in that State. Business has been at top notch all this season.
A wire from Princeton, Ind., under date of Oct. 23, stated that a few people were injured, but none fatally, when the Norris & Rowe Circus tent was blown down, night of 22, in a windstorm. Many of the twelve hundred people in the tent were caught beneath the canvas. Two elephants and some of the horses escaped, but were found a short distance away.
With a view of testing the viability of the State circus tax of five per cent of receipts in addition to specific license tax, affidavits were secured at Petersburg, Va., last week, from the treasurer of the Barnum & Bailey Shows, for use in a test case now pending at Richmond, Va. The Petersburg City Council recently passed a license tax of $100 on circus parades in the city, but when this measure was presented to the Board of Aldermen for concurrence, it was promptly defeated, and all shows of this clas may continue to enjoy the parade privilege as heretofore, without additional expense.
Two Millettes, acrobats, who recently closed a successful season with Al. F. Wheeler's Show, will spend a few months with relatives in Canada.
Advices recently stated that Tony Lowande's Circus was in Argentine Republic, South America, in September.
The Ty Bell- Julian Sisters, whirling teeth aerialists and tight wire act, will be with the Rhoda Royal Indoor Circus this winter.
Bradley and Ward, eccentric comedians, have signed with the Barnum & Bailey Circus for next season, to appear in a new and original act. They report doing well in vaudeville this season.
James Duval, clown, has signed with the Barnum & Bailey Circus for next season.
Jack Sutton, manager of the Tasmanian Van Dieman Troupe, reports a pleasant season with the Gollmar Bros.' Circus. Mr. Sutton has contracts with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show for 1910, making three seasons with that show with the same act.
Notes from the Mighty Haag Shows. Harry La Sage and wife, double wire and bounding loop, have joined these shows, which are doing big business through Georgia, and will remain on the road until the middle of January. Bandmaster Rhodes has just added four more musicians to the band.
Martin J. Downs, died in Toronto, Can., on Oct. 19. Last April Mr. Downs was kicked by one of the horses in the show. He neglected the wound, which got worse, and septic poisoning developed. Several weeks ago, in a last effort to save his life, the doctors took off his leg. He did not rally after the operation. Mr. Downs spent practically his whole life in the circus business. He began by getting little selling privileges in the big shows, and later was found controlling circus concessions. He was always with one circus or another, and he got to know the business thoroughly. It was not long before he became an owner. He became affiliated with the Sells & Gray Shows in ___, and in 1902 he became associate owner of the Sells-Gray Show, in partnership with William Sells. The name of the organization was changed to the Sells & Downs Show. Mr. Downs then bought out the interest of William Sells, and the latter became identified with ___ Bonfils and H. H. Tammen, in the Sells-Floto Shows. Mr. Downs immediately enlarged his show, and re-christened the Cole Brothers' Shows. Mr. Downs is survived by his wife, his son James, who now has full charge of the Cole Bros.' Show, and his father.
New York Clipper, November 6, 1909, pp. 987, 990. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from 101 Ranch Wild West. . . . At Cape Girardeau, where we exhibited on "Taft Day" (Oct. 20), we were compelled to give three performances. The first performance at 10:30 a.m., which was absolute capacity; the second performance at 3 o'clock, to capacity, and at night we had a good average house, people being tired out with their hard day's excitement, which included the arrival of President Taft at 6 a.m., by boat. He was escorted by the ___ and business men's clubs of the city, who invoked the aid of J. C. Miller, who furnished them with fifty horses, to be used by the executives of the city in the Presidential parade. J. C. Miller, mounted on his beautiful Arabian charger, "Ben-Hur," accompanied by the principals of 101 Ranch Real Wild West, including cowboys, cowgirld, cossacks, Indians, standard bearers, Mexican vacquerros, and three bands of music, surrounded the President's automobile and headed the procession from the boat on the Mississippi River to the State Normal School, where the President delivered an address. The streets were beautifully decorated, and thousands of people vociferously applauded the procession along the entire line of march. The President and his party seemed highly delighted at the grand turnout presented by J. C. Miller, and seemed to enjoy the spectacle immensely.
The show will close its season at East St. Louis on Nov. 1, and will winter in the large commodious buildings and plot formerly occupied by the National Iron Works at East St. Louis. The grounds contain a space of about ten acres with four large buildings, with electric lights and all modern machinery. Tracks are now being laid for the storage of the cars, and everything will be completed and in readiness for the reception of the show upon its arrival in East St. Louis. The plant is located on Broadway, near Eighteenth Street, and within twenty minutes riding distace of any point in St. Louis.
The show for the coming season will be very much enlarged in every department, and next year will see Miller Bros. and Arlington's 101 Ranch Real Wild West the largest organization of its kind in the country. A great many novelties have already been secured that are positively new to this country, features will be introduced that have never been seen before with a Wild West, and while this show has made a great reputation the past season, we expect to present an exhibition the coming season that will far surpass our last year's efforts. J. C. Miller will winter the horses, mules, buffalo and led stock on the 101 Ranch at Bliss, Okla.; Edward Arlington will go East to his home in Brooklyn; George Arlington will go on to New York for a short vacation, and then return to St. Louis; Fred Beckman will remain at winter quarters in East St. Louis; Owen Doud, the legal representative, will pay a visit East for a short time and then return to St. Louis. Other members of the company will go to different parts of the United States, and the cowboys, cowgirls, Mexicans and Indians will return to the ranch and remain there until the opening of the show next season. . . .
Ringling Show news. Winter plans of the performers follows: the Lorch Family of Acrobats will play the Hippodrome, New York City, all winter; the McCree-Davenport team of riders will lay off in Toledo, O., and break two new horses; Ed. Millette will remain on his plantation at Greenboro, Ga.; Ed. and Jennie Ward will play vaudeville; the Clarkonians will sail for Europe, to fill engagements over there at Hengler's Circus, Glasgow, Scotland; John Miller, contortionist, will go to Mt. Clemens, Mich.; the Aerial Smiths play Kelly and Orpheum time; Robt. and Emma Stickney will lay off at Cincinnati, O., and break horses; Frank Shadle will break horses at Baraboo, Wis.; the Prossitts will play vaudeville; Harry De Marlo sails for Europe to play Circus Carre, Amsterdam; John Foley will go to Indianapolis, Ind.; the Livingstons will play vaudeville; Jenks and Clifford will play vaudeville; John Agee goes with the Rhoda Royal Indoor Circus; Fred Stelling goes with the Rhoda Royal Shows; the Duttons will lay off at Cincinnati, O., after two years of solid work; John Slater will lay off at Baraboo, Wis.; the Mardo Trio will play vaudeville; George Hartzell and family will lay off at their home in Philadelphia, where Mr. Hartzell will take a course of treatment for his health; the Belford Troupe will play vaudeville, opening at the Star and ___ Theatre, Chicago; James Spriggs will go with White & Edson; the Alvares team will sail for Europe and play engagements over there, after which they will go to their home; Bud Gorman will enjoy a good rest at Columbus, O.; the Aerial Shaws will sail for Europe, where they play some engagements; the Jackson Family will play the Wm. Morris time; the Navarras will practice during the winter at Milwaukee, Wis.; the Montrose Troupe of acrobats will play the Sullivan & Considine circuit; Horton and Linder will rest during the winter in New York City; Prof. Edward Wulff will play vaudeville withhis performing horses, ponies, donkeys, dogs and pigeons, while one of his acts, with Miss Francisco, opens on the United time at Buffalo, N.Y., the other opening at New York City (both are decided novelties); Lil Kerslake and his troupe of pigs sail for Germany to open at Circus Busch, Berlin; Al. Miaco will rest in New York City; Willy Rice joins the White & Edlson Co. The Pacheco Troupe of acrobats will leave for Panama, where they will open with their own show. Mose Davis and wife will remain in Cincinnati this winter; the Marnello-Marnits Troupe, hand and head balancers, will play the New York Hippodrome. Chas. Bell and wife will tarry in Chicago for a few weeks. The Patty Bros. will rest for a few weeks in New York City. Albert Hodgini will sail for Berlin, Germany, to fill engagements with Circus Shuman this winter. The Jordan Family will sail for Europe, as will the Casino Troupe. The Saxon Bros. will play Keith and Orpheum time. Al. White will rest at his home in Brighton, Ia. The Mijarez Troupe will go to Monterey, Mexico. The Milvos go to Cortland, N.Y., and Thomas Roberts to Paterson, N.J. Robledillo will play vaudeville. At Texarkana, Ark., Genero and Theol were visitors. At Caraleana, Tex., business was big. All the boys are reading R. R. maps and time tables now, in order to ascertain which is the shortest route home.
Nat Behrans, former circus agent with Coup and Barnum & Bailey's Circuses, and for the past fifteen years proprietor of circuses and shows touring Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia, returned to New York Oct. 25, to settle down permanently. . . .
Campbell Bros.' Shows will close the 1909 season at White City, Kansas, Nov. 6, after a tour of twenty-nine weeks through eleven states and four Canadian provinces, covering a total of 11,834 miles. Although not the most profitable in the history of the show, the season has been a pleasant one in more ways than one, with but few accidents. Only one blowdown and not many performances missed. The weather for the greater part of the season was as good as could be desired, with only a few rainly days in the Spring, and very little cold weather at the close of the season. Many of the performers have again signed with this show for next season, while others will be identified with circuses. After the end of the season the show will be packed away in winter quarters at Fairbury, Neb., the winter being devoted to getting everything in readiness for next summer's opening.
New York Clipper, November 13, 1909, p. 1016. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Buffalo Bill-Pawnee Bill Shows. Following one of the most successful seasons for any big tented exhibition on the road, where a long run of one day stands is made, the people of this show, on the night of Nov. _, at Richmond, Va., packed up their trunks and disbanded for the season. In all the time the show has been traveling this season there have been no accidents. The rain has hardly ever inconvenienced the show, and no stands have been lost. All through the different States where the show has been it has been received enthusiastically by press and public. Only two horses, out of the hundreds carried with the show, have been lost. Whether they have been working in a hot sun or in a drenching rain, the employees of the show have worked with a vim and vigor that was creditable to them and to the management. Except for three or four times, the show has always been on time, and even in those places where it was late, it was only a question of hurrying things, and not once did it make the management late in opening the doors. The fact of combining Major Lillie's show with that of Col. Cody has been stamped as a successful venture. The one helps the other.
Buffalo Bill will go to New York City for a few days, and then, after he has seen one or two of his old friends, will go to his ranch at Cody, Wyo., where he will go on a hunt. Everything is being prepared for it in the Western town, and when Major Lillie has packed the show away at Trenton, N.J., the new winter quarters, he will join Cody. Johnny Baker will go through on the show train, and with Major Lillie, will superintend the arrangements in the winter quarters. The Indians have been sent back to the reservation, and, as in past years, they have received their prizes at the end of the season. Today many of them were busy buying scented soap and other things that please them.
Although Saturday, Nov. 6, was the last day of the seven months of show business for the Wild West and the Far East, everything was carried out as smoothly as if the big show was going to another town and the many railroad men who wanted the business of carrying the show home, or at least the folks that go to make it up, alone were the strangers that are not usually seen at the beginning of the season. Buffalo Bill said that he felt in better condition than ever, and that he was looking forward to going out on a hunt. He said that he had visited Pawnee Bill's place this season, and now wants Major Lillie to see what his ranch is like. All the old people who have been with the show for many, many years, felt a trifle morose when the canvas was pulled down. Johnny Baker furtively rubbed away a tear, and as to Major Burke, he fairly let the water run down his cheeks. Louis E. Cooke, who for the first time in several years, has been with the show on the actual day it closed, was extremely busy all day. He was present at the last meal in the cook tent, and his cheerful mood helped those who hate to say "good-bye" bear up. . . .
Ringling news. Business in Texas has been record breaking. At Temple, Tex., the entire Campbell Bros.' Show were visitors at both performances. It happened in this way: There was a railroad wreck near Temple which delayed the Campbells, and they were unable to make the town they were billed for, consequently they took the entire day off and made us one grand visit. They were royally entertained by friends with this show. Orrin Hollis met many friends in our dressing room. At San Antonio we were visited by the veteran press agent, Chas. Davis; also by Bert Leon ahd H. Whiting, press agent and city editor of the ___, respectively. At Houston the lot was the worst this season . . . There was not a foot of dry ground. Joe La Fleur paid us a visit there, also Fernando Wilson. At Beaumont, Tex., the Al. G. Field Show was at the Opera House at night, and all of the minstrel boys enjoyed the afternoon performance of the World's Greatest. . . .
The Famous Robinson Shows, Circus and Menagerie landed in Meridian, Miss., Nov. 1, for a week's engagement under the auspices of the ___ of the World's Band. This order is very strong in this city . . . The shows are located on Front Street, ___ the Queen and Crescent station, nearl the Hotel Meridian. It was at first intended to put the shows on a lot three blocks west of of center of city. But the inhabitants, merchants and others got up a petition making the management to locate the shows "in their ___." The management could not refuse. And especially after the sheriff, county commissioners, jailer, warden and all having juristiction over the jail, gave permission to ___ the two lots east and west of the bastile. The shows had a visitor Nov. 1, Walter L. Main, of Geneva, O. The circus owner and manager of the "three-rings-and-two stages" ___, whose name a few years ago was a household word among habitants of the Eastern States and Canada. Mr. Main has been in retirement for three yeras. That his grandfather and father were one ring wagon showmen, and he was born in the atmosphere of the circus. . . . It looks like a return to the road for the "Governor." If he comes back it is probable he will launch the biggest show of his life and be a strong rival of the leading shows.
The Famous Robinson Shows play week of Nov. 8 in Selma, Ala. With the addition of the circus the management has a show too larege to play on the streets. The circus and animal show are the features. Both are being built up weekly with new talent and addition of animals. Three camels are on their way; elephants are being negotiated for. The Guthrie Family of trapeze performers joined in Meridian. Frank Miller, wife and daughter, bareback and carrying act, were engaged last week. The combination is a strong one. It is evoluting in quick degrees into a railroad circus and menagerie of twenty cars.
Murat Temple Gives a Circus. A very successful circus and hippodrome was held at Indianapolis, Ind., week of Oct. 25, by Murat Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S. in the Coliseum at the fair grounds. The entire circus was furnished by F. M. Barnes, of Chicago, who also personally directed the affair, which was largely attended during the week. The programme, which was quite an elaborate specimen of the printer's art, listed the following: Harvey Halle, equestrian director; the Dellemead Troupe, the Hobsons, the Hollands, the ___ Japs, the Savoys, the Five Alpines, the Charles Sisters (2), the Galarmo Sisters, the Two Franks, Lizzie Rooney, Josie Ashton, Viola Stirk, Irene and Lula Halle, Inez Smith, La Van Trio, The Katmura Troupe, Geo. Holland, Rose Dockrill, ___, W. J. Langer, the Flying Banvards, and Rollo, in a high diving act. The Indianapolis Military Band furnished the music.
New York Clipper, November 20, 1909, pp. 1030, 1039. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
The Hagenbeck-Wallace Show closed at Dyersburg, Tenn., Nov. 8.
The Ringling Show closes at Clarksdale, Miss., Nov. 13
H. F. Hall has signed with C. H. Packard for the advance of the I. X. L. Ranch Wild West, that will open up in Buenos Aires, South America.
C. B. Mitchkoff, of the Bartik Troupe (Russian dancers), who recently closed a successful season with the Sells-Floto Shows, is enjoying a brief rest. He will open with the above troupe, which goes with the Rhoda Royal Indoor Circus, opening at Memphis, Tenn., Nov. 22.
Sun Brothers' Show Down in Southland. Down in old Alabama, among the sweet smelling pine tops and the gorgeous golden foliage, the eighteen year old prize winnter of the tented kingdom - the Sun Brothers' World's Progressive Shows, are entertaining twice daily, and receiving the plaudits of enthusiatic auditors. Since the inception of the current season, March 31, at Macon, Ga., the show has traversed the following States: Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, Ohio, Indiana and Alabama. The present tour will extend into the middle of January, 1910. The very best performance ever framed by the Sun Brothers is offered this season. . . . The night shows with this aggregation are never curtailed in any manner. Equestrian director, Mr. O'Dale, makes it a point to have the night programme a feature entertainment, both as to time and length of acts and gorgeous costuming. Big show and concert all over by 10 o'clock; thirty minutes later canvas master Thomas Tucker has the big five-pole tent and all accessories trainward bound. Mr. Tucker certainly is one of the brightest and ablest boss canvasmen in the American circus profession. The masterful hand of property master Harry Sells is also in evidence, and his three wagon loads of effects are always cleaned up in rapid fire order. Claude Orton, the superintendent of stables, or master of the horses, also deserves much credit for aiding in the rapid transit moving. He has a fine bunch of drivers and a congress of some of the finest horses ever used for draught purposes, all acclimated and beautiful lookers. Another man that should not be overlooked is George Spivens, the genial trainmaster. "On you way at 11 o'clock," is the cry of Spivens, occasionally at 10:30 or 10:45, and never later than 11 o'clock. Follwing is the personnel of the show at present writing:
Executive staff: George and Pete Sun, owners and directors; George Sun, manager; Pete Sun, general agent; Percy A. Fennimore, assistant manager; C. S. Clarke, advance car manager; M. Burgower, local contractor; L. S. Barrett, attorney and local adjuster; Charles Gerlach, musical conductor; D. H. Gillespie, manager of annex and privileges; William O'Dale, equestric director; Moses Berman Forest, superintendent of reserved seat tickets; J. M. Beach, special agent; Samuel Morris, manager of privilege car; John Parker, manager of dining tents, and Clinton Newton, press agent.
Operating department: Thos. Tucker, superintendent of canvas; Claude Orton, superintendent of stables and horses; George Steinard, superintendent of train; Harry Sells, superintendent of properties; Arthur Webber, superintendent of light department; John Reynolds, superintendent side show canvas; William Randolph, superintendent of ring stock; Fred Sauers, assistant boss canvasman; Chas. Bitting, assistant boss hostler; Dick Bassett, superintendent of zoo; Frank clinton, front door officer; B. L. Neel, harness maker; J. R. Walker, carpenter; J. L. Butler, blacksmith; Jack (Props) Benson, superintendent of stake and chain wagon; Elmer McJunkins and Lewis Hopkins, superintendents of seats; Charles Williams, night watchman; W. R. Arthur, offical barber.
Big top performers: William O'Dale and Eileen Sun, feature performers and unique carriage equestric novelty; Five Walton Brothers, latter day acrobats and statuary exponents; Three Cevenes, high class, sensational, tight wire performers; Hildera and Fisher, novelty Roman ring exponents and eccentrique entertainers; William Connors, bounding wire and seim-equestric mule rider; Wiley Ferris and son, odd pedal manipulators and Japanese-American perch; Sisters Clark (Pearl and Ruby), star aerialists; Sisters Wenzell, trapezists and midair ring; Nat Goetz, physical culture act; Fred Kenno, leading clown and funmaker; Otto Weaver, sensational equilibrist and balancing mid-air act; Jessie Weaver, up-to-date silver wire performer and flying trapezist; Madame Milton and duo of liberty menage horses; Prof. William Randolph's troupe of educated ponies and dogs; the Sun Troupe of Coliscum elephants handled by Prof. Peter Cardona, the well known animal man. In addition, to all these there is a chain of all kinds of general specialties, clown entrees, animal displays and vaudeville acts.
Big show band: L. E. Inman, Ed. Phelps, John Shelley, A. E. Green, Joe Day, H. Young, W. S. Yates, Charles P. Essman, C. E. Duble, Charles Demuth, Howard Wartluft, Master Ferris, Harry Mason, and Charles Gerlach, director.
Side show annex, D. H. Gillispie, manager. Attractions: Madame Gillispie, sensational mental mystic; Leola Vinton, "princess of the air"; W. J. Daplyn, a feature magician and illustionist, in a big budget of new magical seances and out of the ordinary black art; Johnson Brothers, black face comedians and musical performers; Tommy Burke's Punch and Judy and ventriloquit specialty; Adele Topping, snake act; Josie Snow, clay modeler; Prof. Boekers Twentieth Century Mechanical Band, and as a special feature, Prof. Peter Cardona introduces a big steel arena filled with trained wild animals. D. H. Gillispie also features "Consul Bill," the giant ape. M. Berman Forest, Sam Morris and J. Parker are the door talkers, and Prof. Deplyn is the orator and lecturer. This department has met with fine success all season, and the entertainment presented has invariably given the best of satisfaction. Concert and after show acts: the Great Boyd, Clark Sisters, Eileen Sun, Jessie Weaver, Master Ferris, ___ and McAllister, and the Dancing Ebonys. . . . All look forward to the continuation of the present tour, which will run into the middle of the coming January. The show will again occupy the commodious buildings and grounds at Macon, Ga., for the wintering of the organization.
Notes Ringling Bros.'s Shows. We arrived at New Orleans, La., at 10 o'clock a.m. Saturday. We did not make any parade until Sunday. Al. Miaco was visited by many friends there. The Pinocle Club hel a banquet Saturday night and had a fine time. Our equestrian director, Bud Gorman, was presented with a beautiful umbrella. It was suitably inscribed and was presented by the performers. The presentation speech was made by George Hartzell, and there were three rousing cheers given for Bud. Nellie Jordan, of the Flying Jordans, gave a reception at Fabacker's Cafe after the show Saturday night. Ed.Millett closed at New Orleans. There were many visitors there, among them being: Martinho Lowande, Cecil Lowande, Alex. G. Lowande, Harry Lambkin, Sig. Farrenti, and many others. The Duttons entertained the Lamkins after the show. Mrs. Clarinda Lamkin was also a visitor. The Duttons go with the Rhoda Royal Show this winter. Geo. Smith, of the Livingstons, has been laid up for a few days. Ed. Ward has been working in Smith's place. Mr. and Mrs. Al. Ringling joined the show at New Orleans. Our business at New Orleans was very good. On Sunday, Nov. 7, we had our farewell dinner served, and our steward, Allie Webb, put up a fine repast. There was everything that was good on the menu, and every lady was handed a fine box of choice candles as she was leaving the cook tent, while every gentleman was given a cigar, and they were of a choice brand.
There was a big gathering of the members of the Benevolent Order of Tigers at the quarters in the Poli Theatre Building, Bridgeport, Conn., last week, when the new officers were installed. The following is the list: William O'Hara, president; W. C. Newcomb, vice president; George Fisher, treasurer; Thomas Stickler, recording secretary; B. Frisbie, finanacial secretary; James Gillick, sergeant-at-arms and outside guard, J. Beaudry; Al. Golden and Frank Clancy, trustees. During the meeting John Kane, correspondent of the New York Clipper was enrolled as an honorary life member orf the organization, the highest honor to be conferred, the members expressing appreciation of the many kind notices of the Clipper given the members of the Tigers' organization and showmen in general during the period of the last fifteen years. William O'Hara, the grand treasurer of the order, arranged the honor for the Clipper correspondent. The jungle will hold a big class initiation upon the arrival home of the boys with the Barnum & Bailey and the Buffalo Bill Shows, at the quarters in this city.
La Mont Bros.' notes. The show closed one of the most successful seasons in history, Oct. 16, at Salem, Ill. On Oct. 19, the entire show paid a visit to the Norris & Rowe Show, at Centralia, Ill., and we were treated royally during the visit. Manager La Mont exchanged lions with Mr.Rowe, giving a female for a male lion. The La Mont Show is now stored away in its permanent winter quarters, and the stock is turned out to pasture. The show this season invaded Illinois, Iowa and Missouri, spent two months in the Ozark mountains, which was a hard locality for wagons shows, but business was great. In a short time the work shops will be thrown open getting the show in readiness for its next season's tour. The show next season will be somewhat enlarged in each department.
Al. F. Wheeler's Shows. Mr. Wheeler has just returned from a three weeks' trip through the Southern States, where he has been enjoying a much needed rest. At present he is superintending the erection of a large addition to his winter quarters at Oxford, Pa., which will be used as a repair and paint shop. As soon as this building is completed work will commence in earnest on rebuilding and enlarging the "New Model" outfit for its 1910 tour. Many new cages and parade wagons will be built during the winter months, and as the next season's spread of canvas will be the largest ever carried with a wagon show, five more baggage wagons will be required to transport the same. The menagerie will be augmented by the addition of a number of rare species of the animal kingdom, and Capt. H. Snider, who has charge of this department, will spend his spare time during the winter perfecting several new wild animal displays which he promises will be "eye openers" when he exploits them in the Spring.
Roy Chandler will take a Wild West Show to South America, leaving New York on Nov. 20. The show goes under the name of the I. X. L. Ranch Wild West, is composed of seventy people, and carries about three carloads of paraphernalia.
At the close of Haag's Might Show, W. J. Irwin and family will spend three months on their farm at ___, Mo.
New York Clipper, November 27, 1909, p. 1063. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Wheeler Completes New Winter Quarters. The spacious and conventient new winter quarters building of the Al. F. Wheeler New Model Shows, which have been in the course of construction at Mr. Wheeler's home, Oxford, Pa., during the summer months, were completed last week. Those include a ring barn, animal house and a commodious repair and paint shops. "The Governor" has also purchased an interest in the Oxford fair grounds, and will continue to use those buildngs as in the past, but the very rapid growth of this concern during the past few years has made necessary the addition of the new buildings to properly accommodate the show during the winter months. The "New Model" can now honestly boast of having a complete and comfortable a winter quarters as any show in America.
Bert Cole, with a string of nine seasons with the Wallace & Hagenbeck Show to his credit, is going back for the tenth trip with the same troupe next season, accompanied by the Mrs. They will both sail for Europe Dec. 1 for a pleasure trip. . . . Mr. Cole reports an excellent string of pitches of the past season, with only five days rain. They certainly managed to keep ahead of Jupiter Plavius.
Gentry Brothers' Shows, NO. 1 and 2, have gone into winter quarters at Bloomington, Ind. A bigger show, with trained animals acts and circus features will go out next season. H. H. and Frank Gentry will spend the winter in Bloomington. W. W. Gentry will be at Hot Springs, Ark.
Harry Clark Takes Wild West to Argentine Republic. A number of riders, Indians, cowboys and cowgirls sailed, Nov. 20, for Buenos Aires, for twelve weeks of performances. The riders and the features are from the Ranch 101 Show. They will also visit Rio Janeiro and Montevideo. Sufficient South American capital has been subscribed to ensure the success of the long distance venture.
The Buffalo Bill Wild West and Pawnee Bill's Wild East, combined shows, have closed a long season, and are now in winter quarters at the Inter State Fair grounds, Trenton, N.J., where they will remain until first March, when the season opens at Madison Square Garden.
The John Robinson Show will conclude its season at Artesia, Miss., Nov. 20.
Park Prentiss has joined the Rhoda Royal Show, with his band, opening at Memphis, Tenn., 22.
New York Clipper, December 4, 1909, p. 1087. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Robinson's Shows in "Dear Old Georgia." Born to the famous Robinson Shows, Sunday, Nov. __, en route between Montgomery and Columbus, Ga., two male lion babies, mother "Julia," father "Prince," both last of Cape ___, Captain Ricardo and Major Crawford, attending physicians, mother and babies doing well. This announcement had been expected by the trainers, and through their attentions the welcome additions to the kingly family were made comfortable. At this writing lioness and babies are happily ensconced in a commodious cage on the ample grounds, Broad Street, Upper Girard, hard by Columbus, Ga., where the shows are being exploited this week. This makes the third lion birth this season with these shows. The other jewel of a cub is also a male. He awakened in this kindly world three months ago, in Elyria, O., and is now hearty and healthy. His stage name is "Elyria," but he is known in real life as plain "Dan." Contrary to the nature of the cub once heralded as "Fitzsimmons" greatest advertising card, "Dan" is a innocently sportive as a house cat. He also imitates his mother in cage pacings and growling barks. Another lioness is expected in confinement soon.
The Famous Robinson Shows, Circus and Trained Wild Animals pulled into Girard, Sunday, Nov. 21. The engagement there is under the auspices of the Business Men's Club; percentage of receipts to go for benefit of public schools. As is customary, the Robinson Royal Italion Concert Band gave a concert Sunday afternoon on show grounds. . . . Monday night occurred the week's opening. The engagement was a wonderful success. The next stand is at Newman, Ga., opening Monday, Nov. 29, for one week. The circus is the bright particular feature of these shows. As a novelty, the Bovine Soldiers (eight performing steers) are astounding farmers, scientists and laymen alike. Five educated hogs also furnish an original act. This is laughingly clowned by a rube.
Frank Miller, Dollie ___ and Mlle. Le Clare Belle do bareback and carrying acts in the ring. . . . Ed. Burke joined these shows last week. Ed. is well known in the tent profession as one of the star railroad contractors. Al. Statler, formerly with Barnum, Hagenbeck and other big tops, known as "the elephant man," is handling the animals in the animal tent. Eddie Martin, brother of "Al." of U. T. C. fame, is official adjuster with Robinson Shows. Phil Ellsworth, another distinguised showman of former alliance with Hagenbeck-Wallace and other big tops, was for a while lecturer for ___ Electric Fountain. He is now conducting a show of his own in the World's Five Oddities.
The Robinson Shows have met with such gratifying success this season that the tour will probably be extended ten weeks from date. A circus frame-up, with two rings and accessories, will probably follow the stop for re-organization soon. A Wagner ___ car arrived yesterday and will be utilized for attaches in sleeping the "sleep of the just."
Warren Irons has returned to New York after closing with the John Robinson Show, at Artesia, Miss., Nov. 26. . . . The Robinson Show had an excellent season, especially through Georgia, where the old title is a great attractions. They are still telling the story how, after the war, old John Robinson accepted the voting certificates of the emancipated slaves for admission to the show, and thus prevented many a Republican vote form being cast. The show is in winter quarters at Cincinnati, and will go out early next season, featuring the Wild West Show, including a large number of Indians.
Notes from the Henry Show. We go into winter quarters at our home, Stonewall, Okla., Dec. 4, after having been on the road for twenty months. We have in that time lost only eight stands, a good record, we think. Next season we will open at home, Stonewall, Okla., on March __, as the largest overland circus traveling in the central States, carrying thirty wagons, twelve cages of animals, one elephant, two camels, ten Shetland ponies and twenty trained dogs. We will present aerial acts of all kinds, and give two side shows. Last season was our record breaker, as we cleared more this year than any other time in the history of the show.
The Forepaugh-Sells Show will very likely open in the East, around Philadelphia, Pa., about April 15. The Ringlings promise to make this show a greater organization than the name ever carried.
The Barnum & Bailey Show will open at Madison Square Garden, New York, next March __. The Ringling Bros. open at the Coliseum, Chicago, Ill., at the same time.
B. E. Wallace, owner of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows, will have his own private car for his personal use. He has made flattering inducements to circus performers at large, promising that he will have a better cook house and better sleeping accommodations and bigger improvements all around.
Fred. Jewell, bandmaster, finished a very pleasant season with the Barnum & Bailey Show Nov. 20, and will spend the winter at his home in Worthington, Ind., until the circus season opens again.
Sol Stone, a lightning calculator, died suddely from heart disease at his apartments in East Indiana Street, Chicago, Ill., Sunday, Nov. 14. He was born in New York City in ___, and had been in the circus and vaudeville professions for a number of years. His wife, Bella Stone, who has been in vaudeville for some time, survives him.
New York Clipper, December 11, 1909, p. 1111. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
Notes from Frank A. Robbins' winter quarters. Ever since the show closed, some five weeks ago, the Robbins Circus winter quarters at Jersey City, N.J., has been a scene of great activity. Frank A. Robbins is personally superintending all the work, and has a large force of men at work in the construction of new buildings, including a new ring barn, spacious animal buildings and a new office building. Paint shops, stables and blacksmith shops have all been enlarged, so there will be plenty of room for a force to rush the work of getting the show ready for early opening. Several new baggage wagons, cages and dens are well under way. The sleeping cars are getting a general overhauling at the Lake View car shops. The car "Winona" has been completely gutted, and will be refitted with staterooms and a dining room. A superbly appointed Pullman car has been added to the train. This car will be occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Frank A. Robbins, Master Milton Robbins and Winona Robbins.
On Dec. 4 Mr. Robbins signed contracts with George Dewitt, of Cleveland, O. Mr. Dewitt has won fame for his wonderful and daring feats in the air. He will make one aeroplane flight daily, "weather permitting," for the entire season 1910. It is generally conceded that Mr. Robbins' new free act will be a big drawing card.
Carlisle's Wild West Shows has closed and gone into winter quarters at New York City. It will go out next season equipped to play one day stands, and will be twice as large as formerly, and much stronger in programme. Mr. Carlisle will also have a Wild West consisting of twenty-five people and ban, and outfit completely equipped to play parks in week stands and longer, and also play agricultural fairs. Jake Hirschfield, superintendent, joined the ?. B. Whitney "Isle of Spice" Co.; Texas Tex, rope spinner, and the Perry Sisters, lady riders, of Carlisle's Wild West Show, sailed for South American Nov. 20, with the I. X. L. Ranch Wild West Show, for a twelve weeks' engagement, management of Roy Schandler and ___ Packard.
On Dec. 5, Peter W. Barlow, well known among circus and vaudeville folks, bought from Frederic Thompson, of Luna Park, the share that Mr. Thompson held in the act known as Barlow's Ponies and Somersault Riding Dogs. This makes Mr. Barlow sole owner of the act. The figure paid by Mr. Barlow is not known, but it is understood to be a good round one, as Mr. Thompson was not overanxious to sell the act, which had just returned from the West after a very successful engagement on the Pantages circuit. It is well booked and routed by Richard Pitrot on the Morris time.
Mrs. and Mrs. Bert Cole, of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show, sailed from New York Dec. 1, on the ___, for Europe, where they will put in the winter visiting London, Paris, Berlin and other cities. Geo. S. Cole, of the John Robinson Show, went to New York for a short visit with his son, Bert and wife, to see them off on the steamer.
The John Robinson Ten Big Shows have reached Cincinnati from Artesia, Miss., and have gone into winter quarters at Terrace Park, near Cincinnati.
Antonio Pubillones, the well known circus manager of Cuba, has gathered together one of the greatest circuses this season that has ever played the West Indies and Mexico. He has two companies, one playing at the Teatro Circo, ___, Mexico, and the other at the National Theatre, Havana. The following are ___ with huge success, and manager Pubillones has been playing to enormous business so far this season. Alfred Clarke and Family, European wonders; Siegrist and Silbon Troupe, flying gymnasts . . . Rafayette's Dogs . . . Scott Bros., golfos Parisien . . .Wm. O'Brien Family, acrobats and cannon act; Marguriete and ___, hand balancing act; Prof. Hamilton, jiu jitso act . . . John Adams, clown; Monsieur Julian, clown; Chocolate, clown . . .
George Hartzell is in the ___ Hospital, Philadelphia, Pa., where he had a serious surgical operation performed. He is now on the way to recovery. Mr. Hartzell writes: "My room is very cheerful, and is kept decorated with handsome flowers sent by my many friends. Am looking forward to a speedy recovery."
Sun Bros. in the South. Clinton Newton sends the following "chatty" letter: "The only big show to remain in the South, at the present time, is Sun Brothers' World's Progressive Shows. All the 'three ringer' have departed for their respective winter homes. The last of these, the John Robinson, closed its season at Artesia, Miss. on Nov. 26. They finished fine, and everybody with that aggregation expresses himself as highly pleased with the show. The management reports having a good season. The Sun Show will continue its present season until Jan. 15, 1910. Thanksgiving Day was spent at Ellaville, Ga. This is a hustling town of twelve hundred souls, but with a big outside drawing population. Large crowds were there all day, and the show was the recipient of two satisfactory audiences. The various privileges also prospered under the guidance of Dave Gillispie, who had many special supplies and novelties for the day. As is the usual custom with the Sun Brothers' Shows, after the matinee, an elaborate Thanksgiving dinner was given to all the people of the show. . . . Good weather still follows in the wake of the show, and everybody is having a most enjoyable time. The hunters with the show are having plenty of sport these days. The fields and woods of Southern Georgia are teeming with all kinds of game, and hunting parties are the rule each morning. Not giving any street parades enables the performers and musicians to engage in these pastimes each morning. The 'no street' parade idea will be continued for the season of 1910. It is now five years that the Sun Brothers have entirely abandonded the parade-giving. The scheme is a complete success, and business has been much better than when the parades were given by the show. The management believes in the adage, 'The Best for the Best,' and the best is always found in the big show programme, in the side show, and in the concert entertainment. The show next season will be greatly augmented and made stronger in all points.
"The show is now heading for the glorious land of flowers and sunshine (Florida). This territory is made each season by this show, and in that country it has an established reputation. This will be the eighth consecutive tour in that district. Jerry Mugivan and Bert Bowers, of the Howe-Van Amburg Shows; Mr. Clarke, of the Riverside Printing Co.; Fred Fisher, Harry Clarke and Mr. Orton, of the John Robinson Shows, were welcome guests of the show in Georgia. The Memphis papers have been booming the Rhoda Royal Indoor Shows in a big manner, both in advance and during the engagement there of the Big Show. The reports say that the show is bigger and better than last season, and also that it beats anything of the kind ever offered in the South. William O'Dale and Eileen Sun, with their novelty equestrian English trap carriage act, are going big at each performance; the Three Cevenes are creating a furore; the Five Walton Brothers, Australian acrobats, are great applause inciters . . .
New York Clipper, December 18, 1909, pp. 1130, 1135. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
George Melville, the clown, now at the New York Hippodrome, celebrated, on Dec. 8, his fifty-third birthday. His fellow clowns gave him a supper after the performance. Mr. Melville made his first appearance as a clown when he was six years old, and has been steadily at the game ever since.
Col. Adam Gillespie has just closed his fifth consecutive season as assistnat manager of the Al. F. Wheeler Shows. He reports a very pleasant and successful season for the "New Model." He is now enjoying a well earned rest at his home, Calais, Me.
Notes from Staats Bros.' Circus and Trained Animal Shows. We closed early during the summer. The show will take the road the early part of May next, making its opening date in New Jersey early. E. E. and Rowland Staats have lost no time in arranging their route ahead. Of course, there is plenty more to do at winter quarters, but they expect to have everything ready three weeks before opening day. A few of the headliners will be: Young and Ladell, ___, H. Davis, the human frog man; the Kolb Family, Davis and several others, carrying about thirty people in all. White & Grosse, of Bronx, will have charge of side show and privileges.
The James Shelby Shows. Chas. La Bird writes: "After an absence of three months I have returned to the Jas. Shelby Shows, as side show manager. My wife and youngest son and daughter have gone to Philadelphia, where the children will attend school. The Shelby Show is doing a fine business through South Carolina, and will stay out all winter, playing South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. This is the seventh year for the show, without a closing date."
J. M. Brown, a circus agent, committed suicide on Dec. 2, at Columbus, Ga., by drinking carbolic acid. He went to that city on Nov. 24, with Robinson Carnival Co. On Thanksgiving Day he was married. It is said that he had been drinking heavily, and this fact, together with jealousy, is supposed to have been the cause of his act. Brown was about fifty-five years of age, and had long been a circus agent, having been connected with Ringlings and the Barnum & Bailey Show. A few days before his death he began work with Chirsty's Indoor Circus. Tattooed on his left arm were the names Louise, Earl and Pearl, supposed to be the names of his children. Charles Wiggins, stage manager of the Springer Theatre, Columbus, Ga., informs us of the suicide, and asks that anybody knowing the home address of Mr. Brown communicate with him.
New York Clipper, December 25, 1909, pp. 1150, 1158, 1159, 1160. Note: the Clipper has typographical errors, and the transcription will have additional typos. Information should be checked with additional sources.
South African News. . . . Tented shows are numerous. Willitson's [Wittison's?] Circus and Wild West, which can always be relied upon to put up a first class show, has had a good run. Bert Willison has many interests in this country. The World's Fair, Johannesburg; the Beach, Durban, and the International Exhibition, Cape Town, are a few of his enterprises, at present. He is director general of Madame Fillis' Continental Circus, and business is phenomenal, the great tents being packed in every town visited. Pagel's Circus has gone into the back blocks and is not having too good a time. Frank Fillis is making his final farewell tour with varying success. South Africa wants to forget circus for a year or two. . . . Controlling interests are held by Madame Willison in a number of traveling exhibitions. Madame's forte is training ponies, dogs and monkeys, and she has a big school of them on the road and at headquarters. Carl Wirth, of Wirth's Circus, Australia, is madame's right hand man. Col. G. Agrati is still on the road in advance of Madame Fillis' Circus, his practical experience being a big thing in this country.
Robinson Shows to Winter. ___, Ala., Dec. 17. This week Robinson Shows are playing an engagement under auspices of the firemen and Daughters of the American Revolution, and meeting with success. The grounds are packed daily. The Famous Robinson Shows, Circus and Trained Animals are on their last lap here this week. Next week the supposition is the shows will run into Burmingham for the winter. At least the stay there will be until March. If the weather permits the opening may take place latter part of March, in Meridan, Miss. The famous shows will change their character for the coming season of 1910. The one ring circus will be the prominent feature - nearly the whole thing. Every act in the ring will be a jewel. Frank Miller, the celebrated bareback rider, will break the horse stock during the lay off. He will train them so they may be driven in twelves, eights, four two or one, with accompanied supplementary acts. The lions and leopards of the animal tent to form the menagerie of the new frame-up will be put through their stunts daily during the ___ by competent trainers. Three elephants are to be added to the stock. They, also, will be given daily exercise in their trick doings. A larege side show of world's oddities will be an accompaniment. The Robinson Amusement Company instead to have both circus, menagerie and adjuncts reading for Spring opening, with new and original paper, occupying twelve cars. All and everything will be new and best obtainable in the amusement line. The management recognize that "carnivals" have had their day. They are at best a ___ replica of ancient days, where ___ throwing and slap-sticking were commesurate with the then limited intelligence of the people. Exeunt the Robinson Carnival; enter, Famous Robinson Shows, Circus and Trained Wild Animals.
John D. Carey will be contracting press agent and manager of the excursion car with the 101 Ranch the coming season. Mr. Carey closed arrangements with Edward Arlington last week to this end. He had acted in like capacity with the Cole Brothers' Shows for the past three years, and is well known in every newspaper office throughout the country. He will organize his own crew of billposters, and his reputation among the billposters is such as to always give him the pick of the circus billers.
Ed. H. Barnstead Jr. informs us that James Wilson, aged seventy-two years, an old time circus trainer of trick horses, was discovered in a nearly frozen condition near a railroad in Wisconsin, by a little Polish girl, who summoned help and had the old man taken to her home.
Howe's London Shows will close their season on Dec. __, at Jacksonville, Fla.
Chas. H. Tinney, wintering at his home in Memphis, Mo., informs us that he has contracted to furnish a band of twenty-five pieces with the Greater Norris & Rowe Show for season of 1910.
Park Prentiss has been re-engaged for the Sells-Floto Shows for next season. He is at present with the Rhoda Royal Shows.
Ed. Millette informs is that a baby girl was born to his wife on Dec. __. The Millettes have been with the Ringling Bros.' Shows for the past three seasons.
T. C. Wood. An unsigned communication states that T. C. Wood, one of the proprietors of Wood Bros.' Circus, which was on the road in the '90s, died at his home in Brighton, Ia., on Dec. 10.
William B. Day, showman, died Dec. __. He was advance man for J. H. Murray's Circus for a number of years, and then went with L. B. Lent's Show. When is brother, the late Chas. H. Day, known as "The Old Circus Man," went in the business, William traveled with him. Chas. H. Day died died two years ago.
Last modified May 2011