Circus Historical Society
Circus Biographies, Obituaries V - Z
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Many of these were taken from the New York Clipper, Billboard, various newspapers. Note these sources will have typographical errors, the transcription will also have typos. All information should be checked with additional sources.
A - B C - E F - J K - M N - R S - U
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William H. Van Cleve, tuba, who has filled the position he now occupies, for the past nine seasons with the Ringling Bros. “World’s Greatest.” His winters are also passed in Baraboo, Wis. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Pat Valdo, who has done practically everything in a circus arena, is introducing a clever boomerang act with the Barnum Show. He clowned for Orrin Davenport several seasons in vaudeville. Billboard, April 6, 1918, p. 30. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Valentine Family, aerial, John H. Sparks, 1910. Correctionville (IA) News, June 9, 1910. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Lorraine B. Valentine, aerialist, married George D. Valentine in 1935. She traveled with George and Sue Pelto as the Flying Valentinos from 1932 to 1950. At the time it was the only flying act to use female flyers. Lorraine did a 2 1/2 somersault while blindfolded and a triple into the net. In 1947 the Valentines bought a large barn and land in Normal, Illinois, that they used to practice their act. Died January 10, 1987 at Bloomington, Illinois, age 72. Circus Report, February 9, 1987, p. 30. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Roy George Valentine was one of the original Flying Valentines with Ringling-Barnum. He was the son of George and Lillian Richards Valentine. Sons were Roy and Richard. Died May 4, 1985 at Parkersburg, West Virginia, age 72. Circus Report, May 27, 1985, p. 25. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Pete Valentine, a tuba player, for many years engaged with circus and negro minstrel companies, died in Little Rock, Ark., Oct. 28, and was buried the following day. New York Clipper, November 10, 1877, p. 259. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Valentios, four aerial artists, John H. Sparks, 1909. Coshocton (OH) Daily Tribune, September 18, 1909. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Gary Vanderbilt "Gigging Gary," clown. Norris & Rowe 1908. Stevens Point (WI) Daily Journal, April 23, 1908. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Estelle Vanderhide, rider, Forepaugh-Sells, 1911. Warren (PA) Evening Mirror, April 29, 1911. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Robert Vandervoort (or George M. Vandervoort, known as "Diavolo"). "Diavolo is the only one who has ever successfully looped the loop on a bicycle. Des Moines. May 13.—Looping the loop on a bicycle is a feat that has been written about, described and illustrated by all the leading newspapers and magazines of the country. The sensational act was first accomplished at Coney Island, New York, by George M. Vandervoot, during the winter of 1901. He was at once secured by the great Adam Forepaugh and Sells Brothers' enormous shows united at a fabulous salary to perform the perilous ride at each performance of the big shows. From that date until present time he has been with these shows continually, with the exception of three months, which he spent in Berlin last winter. Vandervoort, better known professionally as Diavolo, is positively the only man who has ever successfully looped the loop on a bicycle and the Forepaugh-Sells circus is likewise the only amusement institution in the world that has ever presented the marvelous act. In all the history of circuses no single feature has attracted more widespread attention than Diavolo, who will appear here when the big shows exhibit on Monday, May 18." New Era (Humeston, IA), May 20, 1903, n.p.n.
"When, at Madison Square Garden, New York, the Great Adam Forepaugh and Sells Brothers United Shows scored the record-breaking hit involved in the introduction of Diavolo's feat of looping the loop on a bicycle, few, if any, of the tens of thousands who gazed in apprehension's widest-eyed wonder at the thrilling innovation were aware that its achiever was neither a professional, nor even an ordinary expert amateur cyclist. The facts preceding his phenomenal leap into prominence and popularity are as follows, and but add to the marvelous character of his performance. Diavolo, who in private life bears the much less lurid name of George M. Vandervoort, is a Texan by birth, and first became interested in the problem of circling a concentric coil awheel while engineering the machinery of one of the loop the loop cars at Coney Island, New York City. Several attempts were made by expert cyclists to circle the loop on a wheel, but all failed, fell and were so seriously injured that the dangerous task was given up as impossible. Vandervoort, however, was firm in the belief that the feat could be accomplished and he accordingly set about learning to ride a bicycle. Two months later he made his first attempt at looping the loop and, although successful, became convinced that the machinery should be reconstructed in order to perfect the act. This was done, and three months later be made his first public appearance as above stated. All attempts to successfully imitate his furious and fearsome ride have resulted in failure and disaster. He will appear at both performances here next Thursday." Atlanta Constitution (Atlanta, GA), October 18, 1904, p. 7.
"Diavolo Met Death. Man Who First Looped the Loop Killed by Cars in Rome, N. Y. After traveling across two continents and taking his life in his hands every day by looping the loop on a bicycle, Robert Vandervoort, known in the circus ring as 'Diavolo,' met death in a freight wreck at Rome, N.Y., Monday while working as a freight brakeman on the New York Central. He was the originator of the bicycle loop the loop act. Piqua (OH) Daily Call, November 8, 1906. "Corpus Christi, Tex., Nov. 8.—Robert Vandervoort, who was recently killed in a railroad wreck in New York, was born here. His mother, Mrs. R. J. Shirley, lives here. He was the famous 'Diavolo' who looped the loop over the country several years ago." San Antonio Daily Light (San Antonio, TX), November 8, 1906, p. 4. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
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Researcher information: Robert Benjamin Vandervoort was my grandmother’s half-brother. Below is some information gleaned from various sources. His baptismal certificate/notation shows his correct name, Robert Benjamin Vandervoort. I have included an item on Joe Mack because he often asserted that he was the first one, but an article/item refutes that. - Linda Salyers.
Corpus Christi Boy Loops the Loop on a Wheel . . . Robert B. Vandervoort Demonstrates Its Practicability for the First Time for the New York Hearld, Corpus Christi Caller, January 3, 1902, p. 1. "The New York Herald of Sunday, December 22, devotes its whole first page to the wonderful feat performed by Mr. Robert Vandervoort, showing Mr. Vandervoort's different positions in looping the loop on his wheel. Mr. Vandervoort left Corpus Christi for Palatka, Fla., about twelve years ago with Mr. Ed Windisch and family. . . . Mr. Robert B. Vandervoort, an electrician of Brooklyn, has actually made the frightful circuit of the loop, or, as he puts it, "goes over the loop," upon eight different occasions. . . . Vandervoort, or "Van," as he is known among his associates . . . obtained his extreme facility with the loop as electrician at the now famous one at Coney Island. He was one of the pioneer of the construction of that machine, doing the necessary wiring and electrical work as the framework was put together. . . . The first attempt to do the loop on a bicycle was made in Madison Square Garden on September 8 by Joseph Mack. . . . The second attempt was on October 16 in the Sea Beach Palace at Coney Island, by H. L. Stewart."
Robert B. Vandervoort, who calls himself "Diavolo," at Coney Island yesterday "looped the loop" on a bicycle. . . . He took his machine to a high platform, placed it on a long inclined plane prepared for the experiment, and then shouted: "I’m coming." The bicycle shot down the path and then up to the ceiling of the loop and finally down the opposite side and out to safety. . . . Vandervoort was born in Corpus Christi, Tex., thirty-two years ago. He learned the trade of an electrician and for some time has been the electrician for the company that had the "Loop-the-Loop" attraction at Coney Island. His hobby was to ride around the curve on a bicycle, and he finally persuaded friends to erect a temporary structure at Coney Island on which he made his public test. The structure measures three hundred feet including the path around the loop. "Diavolo" took seven seconds to dash around the curve. He weights 178 pounds, and his wheel sixty-five pounds. When he came to the place where his wheel is held to the ceiling by centrifugal force the pressure against the ceiling is only ten pounds. Vandervoort is married, but his wife would not go to see him perform until he had done the trick twenty times in private. She consented to witness the performance yesterday. - The World (NY), March 15, 1902
Joe Mack, the Diavolo of the Jabour Circus company, made his second attempt to "loop the loop" at Des Moines a few days ago. He made nearly the entire circle, but just as safety and success seemed at hand and as the awe-silenced multitude which witnessed the daring feat was about to break into cheers his wheel slipped from under him and he was badly injured. Mack's jaw bone and collar bone were fractured and he sustained internal injuries, the precise extent of which have not been determined. The bicycle feat of "looping the loop," that is, riding down an incline to secure momentum and then passing around the inner side of a perpendicular circular track, has never yet been successfully accomplished, advanced amusement notices to the contrary notwithstanding. Mack’s disastrous attempt was the eighth which has been made. The management of Jabour's circus has abandoned that feature of their performance. Webster City Tribune (IA), July 4, 1902
If you went to the circus on Monday, and of course you did, you saw at least one spectacle you are not likely to forget. That was, of course, Diavolo's sensational ride through the loop on a bicycle. . . . A representative of the Herald sought out Diavolo (who is known in private life as Robert Vandervoort) after the show, on Monday afternoon, and asked him to explain, as far as he could, how the thing was done. . . . "My profession is that of electrical engineering, and during the greatest part of last summer and during the past winter as well, I was employed by the owners of the original loop-the-loop, at Revere beach and at Coney Island. The thing fascinated me from the first, and I rode through the loop in the car at every opportunity. I have always been quite an enthusiastic bicyclist too, and one day the idea came to me that it was possible to loop the loop on a bicycle. . . . I experimented a long time before I was satisfied with my work but I was finally successful, not only in building the loop, but in riding through it on a bicycle. . . . I have had several accidents. It was only last Friday that the bicycle swerved out of its track just as I was entering the loop, and I struck with considerable force against the side of the loop itself. I swung the machine back into its track, however, and finished the ride. No one knew that I had been hurt until after I had dismounted, bowed my farewell to the audience, and had reached the dressing tent, where my friends noticed that my right hand was quite badly lacerated. . . ."
Forepaugh and Sells Brothers’ united shows did a big business at Brackett’s field Monday afternoon and evening and gave almost universal satisfaction. The chief drawing card, of course, was the "loop the loop" act of Diavolo, which was performed just as pictured on the posters. . . . Portsmouth Herald (IN), June 24, 1902
The big Forepaugh-Sells circus arrived in the city this morning . . . In the performance under the monster canvass. R. H. Vandervoort—"Diavolo"—is the stellar feature of the show. Thousands of people made blasé by too much seeing are this year renewing their youth and getting new thrills by watching this man who apparently holds life cheap, loop the loop. A few facts concerning the loop act may be interesting. The circus people pay $1,000 a week to the inventor, a man named Prescott. Diavolo is said to receive $400 weekly for performing. Twenty-men are employed exclusively to hand the loop and a special car is required to transport it. . . . Times-Democrat (Lima, OH), August 7, 1902
Adam Forepaugh and Sells Brothers circus is "a bully show." The show gave the usual street parade yesterday morning . . . "Diavolo," who is advertised as "the dare devil" and who "loops the loop" on a bicycle. . . . Diavolo is a stalwart young man who hails from Texas and who is said to receive $1,000 a week for his daring act. . . . Logansport Reporter (IN), August 14, 1902
. . . In private life "Diavolo" is R. B. Vandervoort of New York. By trade he is an electrician. He worked with a number of construction companies and the highest salary he ever received before going into the show business was $25 a week. With the show he gets $1,000 a week and all expenses. He was until a few months ago employed in putting up shoot-the-shoots, loop-the-loops and the like. He worked in charge of one of the cars on the loop-the-loop for a time. He became accustomed to the sensation of going around with his head to the ground, and finally got so he could go round standing up in the car. He soon became able to do this without getting dizzy. Then he tried the bicycle. He says he had seen other people attempt it and fall and he mastered the points where they failed. It takes him six seconds to make the trip, he says, two and a half of these being occupied in rounding the loop. He says he has never been hurt in the attempt. Logansport Reporter (IN), August 16, 1902
Mrs. R. J. Shirley's work in Corpus Christi's prettiest flower garden is often interrupted by passers-by who inquire about her son, Robert B. Vandervoort. Billed as "Diavolo," who "loops the loop," he is creating a furore in Europe. After a 16-week engagement in Berlin he continued his success in London and Lyons, and is now the sensation in Paris where the papers speak of him as the "Celebre Bicyclettiste, Amercain." . . . Crony (Corpus Christi), May 23, 1903, p. 3
News was received several days ago by J. D. Scrivner of this city of the death of his brother-in-law, Robert Vandervoort, better known as the famous “loop-the-loop” king, whose death occurred in New York as the result of injuries received in a railroad wreck in that state. Mr. Vandervoort was a former resident of Corpus Christi, being the son of Mrs. R. J. Shirley of that place and a brother of Mrs. Scrivner of Brownsville. He was the first man to perform the wonderful and dangerous "loop-the-loop" feat, which gained him fame all over the world. Commenting upon the sad news of his death, the Corpus Christi Caller says: "Mr. Vandervoort some years ago startled the world by successfully performing the dangerous feat of "looping the loop" in New York City, and has since been touring the world, performing before all the crown heads of Europe. Since he has followed this dangerous vocation he has had many imitators, but none surpassed him. In Forepaugh’s great shows, with which he traveled some years, he was styled "Diavolo." Besides "looping the loop" in the original way, Vandervoort performed the feat of going through the dangerous evolution with one hand on his handlebars and holding a glass of beer above his head in the other, this being done especially for the edification of the Kaiser of Germany. . . . " Brownsville Daily Herald (TX), Nov. 14, 1906.
Robert Vandervoort, professionally known as Diavolo, the loop the loop artist . . . was killed in a freight train wreck Nov. 4 at Rome, N. Y., while acting as brakeman. Vandervoort was born in Corpus Christie, Tex., and was an electrician by trade. In 1900 he created a sensation in Madison Square Garden, New York City, with his loop the loop feat and he became a feature attraction with several of the big circuses. He had been working for the New York Central for about a year when he was killed. Billboard, Nov. 17, 1906, p. 36.
Read 1902 Strand article on Robert Vandervoort (pdf file) - provided by Linda Salyers
Vandevere Female Zouaves, under direction of Captain Maude Carter, Lemon Bros., 1905. Fort Wayne (IN) Journal-Gazette, April 30, 1905. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Van Dieman's Troupe, Hagenbeck-Wallace, 1907-1908, 1910. Hagenbeck-Wallace 1907: ". . . At a production of the show at Valparaiso last night, one of the women performers was badly injured. The daring of the performers was shown by the repititlon of the act this afternoon, the part of the injured girl being taken by an understudy. Madame Van Dieman of the Van Dieman troupe, in a thrilling stunt of twirling about a wheel, holding on by teeth grip, lost her hold and was thrown heavily to the ground. Two other girls on the same wheel, doing a sister stunt at once, were thrown from their positions but managed to grip with the arms, as the wheel was unbalanced after the flrst accident. Hardly had the injured lady been picked up, and before the audience realized what had happened, a physician was at her side and she was born from the circle. It was found that several bones in her ankle had been broken and numerous other Injuries were found. Millie Du Press, her understudy, at once took up the role and will appear In the part here. . . ." Vaudeville 1913: ". . . 'Aerial Butterfly' act of the Tasmanian-Van Dieman troupe of mid-air performers. A sextette of pretty young women who are accomplished acrobats go through the amazing series of tricks while suspended by their teeth in the air. Afterwards they go through a routine of difficult ground acrobatics. . . ." Lake County Times (Hammond, IN), August 24, 1907; Charleroi (PA) Mail, May 12, 1908; Oakland (CA) Tribune, January 12, 1913. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s). today.
Vashek performed as the Great Vashek on his motorcycle "sky ride," with his wife, Cathy, in 1978. Vashek was born in Czechoslovakia, a fourth generation of circus performers. He began performed acrobatics with his father at age five. During his career he performed varied acts, juggling on a high unicycle, a two-man sway pole act and the high wire. He performed in Europe with his uncle and cousins in a troupe known as the White Devils, in which he rode an eight foot unicycle on the high wire. The troupe left Czechoslovakia to tour South America for three and a half years. Vashek came to the United States in 1969, and married Kathy Cassidy in 1971. Kathy was one of the "Cassidy Girls." They then spent five years on Circus Vargas, doing the incline walk-up. In 1977 they appeared with Circus Odyssey, the Dobritch Internation Circus, the Emmett Kelly Jr. Circus, and Shrine circuses. Southern Sawdust, No. 94, February, 1978, p. 31. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Varnin and Turnin, baitleax throwers, Great Floto Shows, 1905. Galveston (TX) Daily News, March 28, 1905. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Thos. J. Veasey, elephant trainer, formerly of the La Tena Show, 1916-17 and Greater Sheesley Shows last season, is contracted for the season at Franklin Park Zoo, Boston. Billboard, April 19, 1919, p. 33. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Researcher note: I had a grand uncle name Thomas Veasey who worked in the circus and at the Franklin park zoo. There is a photo of him in 1948 in a Boston Globe publication. I am trying to determine where he died and if he married. My mother is 90, believes he married late in life but cannot recall. Kathy Vanaria (a descendent of the Veasy (Vesey) family)
Emily Vecchi, see Clyde V. Fisher. Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Felipe Salazar Vega, trapeze artist, age 32, died from multiple injuries after he missed the net during a performance of Circus Union in Mexico in November 1982. He was a circus performer for 15 years. He was married to Rosamarie Fuentes Salazar, the daughter of Jesus fuentes, owner of Circus Union. Circus Report, November 29, 1982, p. 23. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Venates, seven in number, female acrobats, Frank A. Robbins, 1907. Portsmouth (NH) Herald, June 6, 1907; Bandwagon, Nov-Dec, 2001, p. 33. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Eddy Ventura Duo, with Eddy and his wife, Julia, performed a hanging perch act. The Duo appeared on the Carden-Johnson-Clyde Bros. Circus, Tommy Hanneford's Royal Hanneford Circus, and Dr. Pepper Circus in 1977. They were on Carden-Johnson-Clyde Bros. in 1978. Eddy's former act with his Rocket Car appeared with major shows, known as the "Crater Crash." Southern Sawdust, No. 94, February, 1978, p. 12. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Verdus, Lucy, Mara and Myrna, performed on the rolling globes with the Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros. Circus in 1974. Southern Sawdust, November, 1974, p. 17. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Robert Veno, slack wire, fell from the wire at Wadesboro, did not die from fall, Van Amburg, 1905. Landmark (Statesville, NC), October 31, November 7, 1905. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Benjamin Vernon. The subject of this sketch, Mr. Ben. Vernon, made his first appearance as a performer in 1879, at the International Theatre, Philadelphia. His first attempt was as a bar performer and was made in company with Fred Elmer, with whom he later branched out into the circus business. His career was very successful from the start, and the following years up to 1889 found him filling various engagements with circuses and theatres in the capacity of an expert bar performer and acrobat. The past four years he has worked in connection with Mr. Charles Vernon, as catcher, in the aerial flying act of the famous duo known as the Vernon Bros., and the accuracy and artistic character of his work is too well known to the people of the “World’s Greatest” to need comment here. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Charles Vernon. The accompanying picture of Mr. Charles Vernon is a very good portrait and reflects the countenance of an exceptionally clever
performer. He is what is known, in dressing-room parlance, as the “flying man,” and in the aerial act of the Vernon Bros. performs the bird-like flights, dives and somersaults that have gained for this great feature its enviable reputation. In conjunction with Benjamin Vernon, he has been with the Ringling Bros.’ Show for two years. He is a native and a resident of Baltimore, Md. Charles Vernon started in the business as a bar performer in 1883, with the Barrett Show. He was for several years a member of the professional team of Dunbar and Vernon. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Victorellas Aerial Victorellas, five, Norris & Rowe, 1905, 1909. Woodland (CA) Daily Democrat, April 11, 1905; Lethbridge (Alberta, Canada) Herald, June 2, 1909. Taber, Bob, "Greater Norris & Rowe Show," Bandwagon, Vol. 3, No. 6 (Nov-Dec), 1959, pp. 7, 9, 11-12. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
William Henry Villeponteaux (Harry) was a clown and trapeze performer, in show business for 52 years. Was with Sparks, Hagenbeck-Wallace and other shows. At one time he jumped 14,000 feet from a hot air balloon. After retiring he worked for an oil company. Died April 1, 1978 at Charleston, South Carolina, age 71. Circus Report, May 22, 1978, p. 19. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
I've been researching some old film footage I have that dates from about 1937 to 1950. I have dated one, to either September 5th or 6th 1940. It was a "Homecoming" celebration in Renwick, Iowa. The Renwick Times lists Purcell's Stage Circus as being there. It lists Harry Villeponteaux as the aerialist, and a person on a trapeze is on the film. You have a biography for William Henry Villeponteaux and the description and age seem to match. The newspaper also it says Lorraine's Trained Dogs performed, and that seems to be shown on film as well. http://www.youtube.com/user/bobn600#p/u/16/YUcjUnJeAR4. I'm in the process of updating the narration to include corrections on the exact date, and also information on the circus. So I will upload a newer version and eventually delete this one. Bob Neely
Val Vino, lecturer with the Ringling Bros. annex, is engaged in the stock and bond business in Philadelphia. He will be with the Ringlings again this season. Billboard, March 30, 1918, p. 29. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Prof. Voce occupies a place in the performance part of the museum programme of which he can well be proud, and to which in equal proportion he adds the interest and entertainment of his unique ventriloquial performance. On the large theatre stage, for which the Ringling Bros.’ Museum is noted, Mr. Voce introduces a complete family of talking figures, some seven or eight in number, and from the manner in which they are put through their life-like imitations of human beings his ventriloquial powers are aptly shown. Mr. Voce is a native of England, where he performed with his dumb yet speaking figures several years prior to bis engagement here. Ringling Bros. 1893. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Charles Vogel. Toledo, O., Jan. 5. Charles Vogel, who was connected with the John Robinson Shows and Ringling Bros.' Circus as billposter, died at the Harper Hospital here Sunday evening, December 23. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 31. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Bert Vogels was transportation manager of Ringling-Barnum's European tour in the early 1960s, toured with the Blue Unit from 1971-1974. Also Worked with Circus Scott in Sweden and other shows. Died December 27, 1983, age 65. Circus Report, February 6, 1984, p. 12. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
William Vogt is a young man whose experience in the circus business covers only the season of 1893, and yet whose accuracy as an accountant and rapid ticket-seller, and reliable business methods, stamp him as one of the important functionaries in the financial department of the show. Mr. Vogt has had much experience in other branches of the amusement profession, and has filled various positions of importance and trust in connection with numerous theatrical houses. The various details, in a monetary way, he has to deal with during every day of the season, would probably drive a person not possessing his peculiar talents in this direction, to an early grave, but “Billy ” deals with these perplexing questions of dollars and cents with an ease and accuracy that accounts for the habitual bland smile he wears on his good-natured countenance. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Eileen Voise married Harold Voise and was an aerialist and member of the Flying Harolds. Eileen and Harold traveled with Sells-Floto, Ringling-Barnum, Cole Bros., Polack Bros. and Shrine circuses. She did the flying for the movie "The Story of Three Loves." Born in 1906, died January 13, 1983 at Sarasota, Florida, age 77. Circus Report, February 1, 1983, p. 27. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Clarence J. Von Nieda, flyer, began his circus career as a member of the Four Readings acrobatic team in 1909. He also toured in vaudeville. After retiring operated a barber shop at Reading, Pennsylvania. Died December 10, 1981 at Lebanon, Pennsylvania, age 90. Circus Report, January 4, 1982, p. 6. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Col. Bill Voorheis, owner and producer, Voorheis Bros. Circus, Col. Bill's Early American Circus and a tented magic/circus show. Originally a drummer in the 1940s, played the drums and announced in his shows. Clowned as "Willie the Clown," and was the "Amazing Byron" in his magic show. Died in August 1980. Circus Report, September 15, 1980, p. 16. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
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The Wachtel, Cohen & Vinson Trio, with Sun Bros.' Shows for the past three seasons, is now widely scattered. Dr. Wachtel is in the navy. H. S. Cohen, press agent, is connected with a South Bend (Ind.) theater, and Dixie Vinson, treasurer and auditor, is with a musical comedy. Billboard, March 2, 1918, p. 29. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
W. P. Wachtel, for quite awhile on the executive staff of the Sun Bros.' Circus, is with the Pelham Bay Naval Station Band. His brother, S. M. Wachtel, is band leader. Billboard, June 8, 1918, p. 27. Billboard, June 8, 1918, p. 27. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
"Doc" Waddell, 89, "Bishop of the Big Top," died at Columbus, Ohio in 1952. He was a circus minister with most of the big shows. Born in Portsmouth, Ohio, his real name was William Shackleford Andres. He was also a circus advance man and publicity agent. Son of a bareback rider, "Doc" began his circus career at age 9. Until he retired he had worked for Barnum & Bailey, Hagenbeck & Wallace, Ringling Bros. and Sells-Floto circuses. [Waddell's life story was published in Coronet in July 1949] From: Lancaster (OH) Eagle Gazette, July 16, 1962. Information should be checked with additional sources
"Doc" Waddell. Death came on July 15, 1952, to "Doc" Waddell, the Circus Parson, at Columbus, Ohio. He was known throughout the country as the "Circus Evangelist" and dean of old time press agents. He was born, William Shackleford Andres, in Portsmouth, Ohio, on Aug. 26 1863. The passing years turned him into a newspaper man, press agent, railroad fireman and engineer, poet philosopher, lecturer, leader in fraternal organizations, saver of souls, but his love for the "big top" never waned. Early in life he joined John Robinson's Ten Big Shows, and became associated with Kid Waddell, from whom he took his name, Waddell. He was known as an all day talker on the Side Show. "Doc" had several years ago expressed the wish that, when his time came, he be buried in an inexpensive box, covered with red, white and blue canvass. Nothing fancy. No flowers, though flowers might be in another room. If a circus was in town, he asked that his funeral be held under the Big Top at 8 P.M. However in later years he changed his request, probably at the behest of his wife, so that he had the regular type of funeral service. He is survived by his wife, and two sons, Parson and William Andres, and several cousins. Burial was in Springfield, Ohio, as he had requested. Bandwagon, August, 1952, p. 15. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
"Hans" Wagner, general manager, Sells-Floto, 1909. Yuma (AZ) Examiner, April 16 & 17, 1909. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Elbart Hank Wakefield, formerly of the Wallace Shows and the John Robinson Ten Big Shows, and for years with H. H. Tammen, of the Sells-Floto Shows, will again be adjuster for one of the big shows in 1918. He is at home in St. Louis. Billboard, January 26, 1918, p. 31. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Waldorf family, from Australia, living statues, Norris & Rowe, 1908. Oakland (CA) Tribune, March 27, 1908; Anaconda (MT) Standard, July 2, 1908. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Billy Wales, horse driver, Sells-Floto, 1909. New North (Rhinelander, WI), July 22, 1909. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Hank Walker. W. F. Walker, of St. Louis, Mo., informs that his brother, Hank Walker, known to showfolk as "Rocky Mountain Hank," died at St. Louis, August 15, of heart disease. Mr. Walker had been connected with Miller Bros.' 101 Ranch and other shows. Billboard, August 31, 1918, p. 26. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Peter Walker, superintendent of electric light plant, Buffalo Bill show. His wife, of Buffalo, New York, died at Bloomington, Illinois, September 3, 1907, age circa 45. Billboard, September 14, 1907. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Ben E. Wallace, photo from Fred Pfening, Jr.
B. E. Wallace was truly a giant of the century. In everything he aimed to excel. He was born in Miami County, October 14, 1847. He moved to Peru in 1863, and entered the army in 1865 as a member of the 13th Indiana Volunteer Infantry. After his discharge, he opened a livery stable in Peru. In the fall of 1885 he boarded a dog and pony show which was not able to pay its bill so Wallace got into the circus business. He opened his first show at Denver in 1884. From this modest beginning, through careful policies, progressive methods, and constant effort to give the public the best possible entertainment, he grew in popular favor and patronage until he developed the great circuses which bore his name. The quartering of his circuses in Peru developed other enterprises and was a chief source of cash income for the farmers of the county. He successively won fame for Peru's finest home; Peru's largest bank; Peru's largest department store; and as Miami County's largest land owner. In War I he was too old to enlist but he put his fortune behind the sale of Liberty Bonds. His speech at the first bond meeting in the Wallace theater was "Let everyone buy until it hurts, and I will match every bond bought." That cost him $43,000 that night and he kept up this policy all during the war. Circus life broadens a man's sympathies and provides many opportunities to play the good samaritan. Hundreds of men were helped by him and the tales of his kindness can never be fully told. Jerry Mugivan, his successor owed much to him. Fred Senger ultimately obtained ownership of Peru's biggest store, which is a monument to Wallace's helping hand, as well as to Senger's merchandising ability. Wallace's only inheritance was his Scotch ancestry. From the humblest beginning he rose to a position of great power and affluence, all of which he acquired by native ability and hard work. Every state in the union knew about Peru because it was the home of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. He was Peru's biggest booster and greatest advertiser, and one of the ten men who contributed most to Peru in the last fifty years. Peru, IN Daily Tribune, December 27, 1949; Bandwagon, Vol. 6, September, 1956, p. 4. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Forrest Wallace Forrest (Foy) Wallace, of the clown team of Stoddard and Wallace, last season with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus, enlisted in the 416th Railway Telegraph Battalion. Stoddard is operating a vaudeville and picture show at Charlevoix, Mich. Billboard, February 16, 1918, p. 31. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Harry Wallace, cook, from Fairbury, Nebraska, burned in stove fire May 12, Sioux City, Iowa, Campbell Bros., 1908. Waterloo (IA) Semi Weekly Courier, May 15, 1908. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Joe Wallace, rider, Howe's Great London, 1911. Daily Courier (Connellsville, PA) April 19, 1911. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Richard Wallace, properties, 1941. "Los Angeles Shrine Had One Night Circus," White Tops, Vol. 14, Nos. 4-5 (Feb-Mar), 1941, p. 4. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Wallins, two in number, contortionists, Dode Fisk Shows, 1910. Marshfield (WI) Times, July 13, 1910, and July 27, 1910. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Charles Walters
Charles Walters was the first to introduce the acrobatic song-and-dance business, now so general in variety halls. It was a solo specialty when he introduced it. Afterwards performers doubled up in this acrobatic feature, and foremost among them for several years was the firm of Walters and Morton. Finally the acrobatic specialty expanded into a quartet. The deceased was born in Cardiff, South Wales, on May 17, 1849. In 1852(?), with his parents, he came to America. As a boy he began his professional career in a circus, tumbling and doing acts of contortions. After traveling with several circuses, he is said to have gone to the war in some capacity. He was too young to palm himself off for a legal soldier. Some time after the close of the war he resumed circus life, and conceived the idea of making a specialty of acrobatic song-and-dance, for which his experience as contortionist and tumbler peculiarly fitted him. He traveled through the Western country mainly, if not wholly. He first attracted marked attention with Newcomb & Arlington's Minstrels. . . . Walters went to Tony Pastor's in the Spring of 1871, with whom he traveled all that Summer and returned when the season of 1871-2 opened. He was first joined by John W. Morton at Fred Alms' Theatre, Pittsburg. Mr. Morton states that they first appeared together at Smith's Opera house, East Saginaw, Mich., Aug. 12, 1872. . . . In 1877 he was at Wood's Theatre, Cincinnati, and made his last appearance on the stage. Leaving that city, he came to this, where he was an invalid until his death. New York Clipper, February 16, 1878, p. 368.
As to the late Charles Walters, we are informed by John W. Morton, that with his father and mother he came to America when he was about nine years of age, and located in Birmingham or South Pittsburg, Pa. His father was a foreman in a brass or iron foundry, and died about 1861; but his mother still lives in Birmingham. . . . New York Clipper, February 23, 1878, p. 381.
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Capt. Fred Walters, "The Blue Man," has closed an engagement at Aldershot, England. Shortly he will come to America to rejoin the Ringling Bros.' Shows. Billboard, March 23, 1918, p. 64. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Dave Walton was born at Toledo, Ohio, and is 20 years of age. His debut was made at the Theatre Comique in his native city as a song and dance artist when a boy of 8 years. His introduction into the circus branch of the amusement profession was made in 1877 in connection with High Walton, Dave doing the “top-mounting” in a very clever brother act introduced by them with the Warner Show. His later successes have been achieved in connection with the Four Waltons in the brother act of which he acts as middle man. This is the first season of the quartette of acrobats with the Ringling Bros.’ Shows. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
High Walton, senior member of the acrobatic team known as the Four Waltons, is a native of Toledo, Ohio. He commenced his career as a circus performer in 1872 as a leaper and tumbler. His later accomplishments as an artist in the circus ring are well known to the profession. In 1877 he formed the nucleus of his present success by combining with his brother Dave in the production of an acrobatic act for which the two Waltons became famous. The later addition of Reno and Johnnie Walton to the original two Waltons has formed an acrobatic act that rivals for its superiority of execution and style any act of the kind ever produced in this country. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
John Walton, the youngest member of the Walton Bros., and one of the top mounters of the world-renowned acrobats, is twenty years of age, and like the other members of this quartette, is a native of Toledo. Though he has not yet reached the voting age, he has spent six years in the amusement profession; all of this time he has occupied as one of the top mounters of the Walton Bros. Johnnie is also an expert leaper mid turns himself around in the air with a grace that would almost lead to the belief that he possesses wings. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Reno Walton has been connected with the Walton Bros. eleven years, his first season as top mounter being in 1882. Mr. Walton is one of the
cleverest double somersault leapers of the saw-dust ring, and clears an unusual number of elephants and camels while passing in double evolutions through space. Reno combines rare grace and skill in his work as one of the top mounters of the act that has made the Waltons so famous in this country. He is a native of Toledo, Ohio, and possesses an affable and genial disposition that have made him one of the most popular actors in the dressing-room. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Richard Walton, rider, Forepaugh-Sells, 1910-1911. Charleroi (PA) Mail, April 30, 1910; Warren (PA) Evening Mirror, April 29, 1911. Information should be checked with additional sourcesCan you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
George Wambold. To circus managers, Prof. Geo. Wambold, magic barrel on pedestal, boneless wonder with his troupe of educated dogs. Little George Wambold. Risley act, crystal pyramids, Polandric and tumbling. Address, Frankford, Pa. [Advertisment] New York Clipper, January 6, 1877, p. 328. Information should be checked with additional sourcesCan you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Hotu Wara, high wire, Wallace Shows, 1900. Billboard, June 16, 1900. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Ward and Brown have signed with the Wallace Circus for the Summer. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Ed C. Warner, contracting agent, Norris & Rowe, 1908. Anaconda (MT) Standard, June 17, 1908. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Donald Washburn (circa 1940 - December 1, 1979), Sparky the clown. He was said to have quit high school when he was 17 and joined the circus. He was a magician, juggler, ventriloquist, and pantomimist. Was with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros., Kelly Bros., Mid-America, Circus Vargas, Carden-Johnson, and Big John Strong. While with the Big John Strong Circus, driving from Oregon, he was in a head-on crash near Crescent City, California on September 23, 1979. Died December 1, 1979 at Sedro Wooley, Washington, burial at Chanute, Kansas. Circus Report, January 7, 1980, p. 14; December 17, 1979, p. 28. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Leon Washburn, to put out a Tom Show under canvas, opening his deason at Havre de Grace, Maryland. Billboard, May 1, 1900, p. 6. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Waters. Among the boys of the Sparks Show to join the colors recently are "Rube" Waters, of the clown alley, who is stationed at Camp Dodge, Ia. Billboard, August 31, 1918, p. 27. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Fred Watson, wife and child, who recently returned from South America with the Howes & Cushing Circus, have been re-engaged with the Van Amburg Shows. Fred Watson, two and four horse and scenic rider. Mlle. Lotta, feats of strength, or lady with the iron jaw; also does two-horse carrying act. Master Charlie, child hurdle rider. They can be engaged to appear in their riding acts, feats of strength, etc., for the winter season. New York Clipper, July 7, 1877, p. 118. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Sammy Watson, seventy-four year old showman, recently finished a tour with Tate's Fishing act in vaudeville. He started in show business nearly seventy years ago with Lord George Sangers' Circus in England. For many years he was the European agent for Adam Forepaugh. Billboard, April 27, 1918, p. 5. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Thomas Watson
Notice to circus managers. August Siegrist and Thomas Watson and wife, now at the Tivoli Theatre, are prepared to negotiate for the tenting season. Our acts are as follows, viz.: horizontal bar, brothers, la perche, and tumbling and leaping; Mlle Marie, balancing trapeze. Ladies go in entree and concert. Address Siegrist & Watson, No. 14, East Eighth street, N.Y. [Advertisment] New York Clipper, January 27, 1877, p. 347. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Lucille Watton (circa 1917 - 1980), circus organist. Was with Hunt Bros., Al G. Kelly-Miller Bros., Ben Davenport, Cristiani-Wallace Bros., Sells & Gray, Carson & Barnes, Circus Bartok, Harry Beck's Circorama and Century 21 Shows. Died January 15, 1980 at Tarkio, Missouri. Circus Report, February 18, 1980, p. 6. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Otto Weaver, a Decatur man known in the circus world as an expert slack wire walker and trapeze performer, has signed a contract to appear with the Campbell Brother circus for the next season [1908]; Mrs. Weaver, slack wire, Otto, equilibrist, Reside Decatur, Illinois, Campbell Bros., 1908.(1) Decatur (IL) Otto, hand balancer, Sun Bros. circus, 1911.(2) Otto was retired by 1918.(3) Otto Dale Weaver, born October 28, 1876 according to WWI draft card; working for Decatur Extract Co., listed his mother as nearest relative. In 1900 census listed as a trapeze performer, living with parents, single, father Jacob Weaver, mother Lucy. 1910 still living with parents, wife Jessie a show performer, daughter Marie, Otto's occupation 'hand balance show.' 1920 census, Otto listed as divorced, his daughter Marie was living with him, both living with his widowed mother. When his mother died in 1930, Otto D. was still alive and living in Decatur, Illinois. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
1. Decatur (IL) Daily Review, January 25, September 5, 1908.
2. Decatur (IL) Daily Review, April 11, 1911.
3. Decatur (IL) Review, June 23, 1918.
Arthur Webb, of Waterloo, Iowa, band leader, Cook & Barrett circus, 1905; Yankee Robinson, 1910. Waterloo (IA) Daily Reporter, October 3, 1905; Waterloo (A) Evening Courier, June 17, 1910. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Captain Webb, trained seals, Forepaugh-Sells, 1905, 1910-1911. Butler County Democrat (Hamilton, OH), April 20, 1905; Bedford (PA) Gazette , April 29, 1910; Charleroi (PA) Mail , April 28, 1910; New Castle (PA) News, April 29, 1910; Newark (OH) Advocate, April 29, 1911; Charleroi (PA) Mail, April 27, 1911. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Claude W. Webb and his wife, Pauline Russell Webb, founded Russell Bros. Circus in 1928, operating it until 1943, when they sold it to Art Concello. Russell Bros. was one of the larger and best equipped motorized circuses of the 1930s and early 1940s. Died December 5, 1980 at Sepulveda, California, age 86. Circus Report, December 22, 1980, p. 16. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Pauline Russell Webb, owner and manager, Russell Bros. Circus, 1942. Claude ran the business end and Pauline ran the show. White Tops, Vol. 15, Nos. 5-6 (Apr-May), 1942, p. 8; White Tops, Vol. 15, Nos. 5-6 (Apr-May), 1942, p. 18. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Horace Webb
1900: Horace Webb, revolving ladder, Wallace Shows, 1900. Billboard, June 16, 1900.
1919: Horace Webb, when visiting the Sells-Floto show at Syracuse, N.Y., was asked if he ever expected to return to the white tops. He said: "No, by heck. I am satisfied on my farm doing a parade to milk the cow, a matinee behind the plow lasting until about 8, the a night show starting about 2 a.m., featuring my year-and-a-half baby girl." Billboard, June 7, 1919, p. 82.
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Horace Webb (real name Horace Baggs), the acrobatic clown, and his wife, Shipp's Indoor Circus, 1905; revolving ladder, Hagenbeck circus, 1906.(1) 1907: "Fulton, Dec. 16. - Horace Baggs has left for New York, where he will open a Winter's engagement this week in Tony Pastor's vaudeville theatre. Mr. Baggs is well known in this city and has the best wishes of his many friends. He is an athlete and gymnast of no small degree and has traveled the past few years with the leading circuses of the country. His professional name is Horace Webb, and he was lately with Hagenbeck's circus."(2) Horace Webb, Norris & Rowe, 1908; clown, Sells-Floto, 1911.(3) "Before Horace Webb became a clown he was a circus 'leaper.' He held the record for a double turn leap over six elephants. . . . "(4) Horace Webb, clown, Sells-Floto, 1917.(5) 1910 New York census, Fulton, Oswego County, Horace W. Baggs, age 36, born Canada, gymnast show co.; Ella A. Baggs, wife, age 30, born New York, dressmaker. In 1920 Horace still living at Fulton, came to US 1876, now employed as a gardener. WWI draft registration, Horace Webb Baggs, Fulton, Oswego, New York, born March 20, 1874, occupation a market gardner for Wm. Baggs in Fulton. Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
1918: Horace Webb, manager and producer of acts for circuses, vaudeville and fairs, is out of show business this season, and probably for good, the first time in twenty-two years. His new line is truck farming, having purchased the ten-acre truck farm of his brother, William Baggs, in Fulton, N.Y. Mr. Webb's first engagement with the circus was in 1896, when he joined out with Sig. Sautelle's One-Ring Circus. Billboard, May 11, 1918, p. 36.
1. Daily Review (Decatur, IL), January 6, 1905; Cedar Rapids (IA) Evening Gazette, February 21, 1905; Racine (WI) Daily Journal, June 18, 1906.
2. Oswego Daily Palladium (Fulton, NY), December 16, 1907, p. 3.
3. Woodland (CA) Daily Democrat, April 21, 1908; Lima (OH) Daily News, August 27, 1911.
4. Evening Post (Frederick, MD), May 25, 1912.
5. Eau Claire (WI) Leader, June 22, 1917.
A. L. Webber, steward, cookhouse, Ringling Bros., 1908. Decatur (IL) Daily Review, August 17, 1908. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Shanty Webber, last season with the John Robinson Ten Big Shows, will be in charge of the lighting plant and barber shop with the Sparks Circus this year. Billboard, April 13, 1918, p. 29. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Chatita Escalante Weber was an aerialist and wire walker with a number of major shows. She appeared in her family's Escalaantes Circus at age three. She appeared in motion pictures until the 1930s. She married Herbert Weber in 1936 on the Al B. Barnes Circus. Chatita and Herbert were with E. K. Fernandez's tour of the Orient and shortly after opened their Gran Circo Flamante in 1952. Died December 3, 1985 at Riverside, California, age 74. Circus Report, January 13, 1986, n.p.n.; January 27, 1986, p. 6; Billboard, September 27, 1952, p. 55. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Severin Weber, band leader of King & Franklin's Show, closed his fourth season with that circus and will go to the Rhine for two months, after which he will return to this country and settle down at Belleville, Ill. New York Clipper, October 27, 1888, p. 524.
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Alexander Weir was a clown for more than 50 years, known as "Deatpan Duke." Toured with many circuses and retired from the Miller-Johnson Circus. Died July 8, 1976 at Richmond, BC, age 73. Circus Report, August 2, 1976, p. 2. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Bruno Weise, Bruno Weise Trio
Photo: Bruno Weise, aerialist, courtesy of Gregg K. Schrader, Belva V. Schrader collection.
1917: Bruno Weise was with the 1917 Barnum & Bailey Circus. Billboard, November 17, 1917, p. 62.
1922: The Bruno Weise Family returned from Europe to be ready for the circus season. They open with the Ringling Brothers-Barnum and Bailey show at Madison Square Garden, March 25. Variety, March 17, 1922, p. 34.
1957: Bruno entertains again - "The Great Bruno," otherwise known as Bruno Weise, leads a group of Bavarian Musicians and singers in native Tyrolean costume at a joint dinner meeting of the Kiwanis, Rotary and Lions clubs of Yucaipa at the Yucaipa Elementary school tonight starting at 6:30. Bruno formerly led a troupe in Europe and was a featured aerialist with the Barnum and Bailey circus for 13 years. He is now a cherry orchardist in Cherry valley. Tonight's festivities are designed to promote the Beaumont Cherry Festival June 13-16. Redlands Daily Facts (Redlands, CA), June 4, 1957, p. 2.
1957: Bruno Weise, retired world-famous acrobat with Ringling Brothers Circus is now an enthusiastic Cherry Valley orchardist. San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, CA), June 9, 1957, p. 17.
1976: Bruno Weise, retired RBBB balancing star, now sells real estate in Cherry Valley, California. Circus Report, June 7, 1976. p. 14.
Photo: Bruno Weise Trio, Bruno (on right), Charlie Cheer (on floor), courtesy of Gregg K. Schrader, Belva V. Schrader collection.
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Mrs. Celia Welch and Frank Welch, of the team Welch Brothers, circus clowns and knockabout Irish comedians, formerly of Barnum & Bailey, Forepaugh-Sells, Walter L. Main, are still running the Welch Hotel at Buffalo, New York, which they have operated for the past five years. Billboard, February 1, 1919, p. 37. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Nellie Welch, of Australia, equestrian, Forepaugh-Sells, 1910. Bedford (PA) Gazette, April 29, 1910; Charleroi (PA) Mail, April 28, 1910; New Castle (PA) News, April 29, 1910. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Gen. Rufus Welch, one of the oldest showmen in this country, died suddenly at his residence in Philadelphia, on Friday night, the 5th inst. His disease was rheumatic gout, and its progress was fearfully rapid. The Bulletin says he was born in New Berlin, Chenango Valley, New York, in September, 1800. When 11 years of age he went to the West, and soon after became connected with the circus business which was then in its infancy in this country. He has traveled in nearly every quarter of the globe. One of his journeys extended two thousand miles into the interior of Africa, from which country he brought over the largest and finest lot of wild animals, including several giraffes, that were ever imported into America. To his great business energy and enterpise, he united extreme amiability and a degree of probity in his business affairs that secured him the respect and confidence of all who were associated with him. From Hornellsville (NY) Tribune, December 18, 1856. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
W. F. Weldon, the musical director of the famous musical organization bearing his name, viz., “Weldon’s Grand Military Band,” was born in San Francisco, Cal., in 1860. His younger days were spent in the regular service under his father, who was bandmaster of the Tenth Infantry Reg’t. He made his professional debut in 1874, with the Transatlantic Circus. Since then he has had charge of numerous bands and orchestras noted for their brilliancy. In 1889, he made his first appearance with Ringling Bros., and by persistent work has brought the band gradually to the front, where it now stands a monument to the energy and vigor he has infused into its work. His permanent address is Baraboo, Wis. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Ferdinand C. E. Welk, 84 years old, and a member of the Circus Historical Society, died at Baraboo, Wisconsin, on September 9, 1957. Death occured in the Sauk County Hospital, where he had been since surgery in April. Ferdinand Welk was born July 20, 1873, near Berlin, Germany, and with his family come to Wisconsin, at an early age. The family settled on a farm near Baraboo, where Feredinand Welk carried on farming for a while. After witnessing the first performance of the Ringling Brothers on May 19, 1884, and experiencing a feeling of wanderlust, he joined out with the Ringling Show, and was a campfire tender with the cookhouse for 18 years . . . An injury forced him to quit the road, and he returned to Baraboo, where he resided the rest of his life. He was survived by 3 nephews and a niece. . . . Bandwagon, Vol. 1, No. 4 (Sep-Oct), 1957, p. 2. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Billy Wells, hard-headed man, exhibited in a number of large circuses and museums in the 1800s. He allowed blocks of granite to be broken on his head using a sledge hammer and 1 1/2 inch thick pine planks to be broken by striking them agains his head. Born in Holland in 1840, lived to be about age 70. Circus Report, December 15, 1986, second section, p. 2. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Samuel Welser. "Samuel Rowe Welser, a veteran circus clown, died at Pittsburg, leaving a valuable estate which he accumulated by playing clown. Born in Philadelphia in 1816, he began his circus career when quite a boy by training horses for James Taylor, of McKeesport. In December, 1847, he was employed in the museum at Boston, where he first began his work as a clown. In company with Dan Rice and other noted showmen he traveled with Maley & Older's circus through South America, Central America and Mexico. Upon his return to the United States he entered the service of Dan Rice, who started on the road with a show. As a circus man Mr. Welser traveled over the greater portion of the world, both in the capacity of wagon driver and clown, and he mastered several foreign languages. . . . [While he was] was with the largest circus companies of the country, for several years he conducted a small ventriloquial and tunlbling show of his own. He was well known to all the showmen in the western hemisphere, and kept a memorandum of all the famous circus people he had known and what befell them. He will be especially remembered by the older residents of Pittsburg and vicinity for a remarkable voyage he made many years ago down the Monongahela River from Brownsville to McKeesport in a small canoe drawn by four large white geese. He was cheered by people who lined both banks of the river." Daily Herald (Delphos, OH), August 22, 1901.
History of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Chicago: A. Warner & Co., 1889, pp. 341-342. "Samuel Rowe Welser, retired McKeesport, was born in Philadelphia on April 15, 1816, and is of American extraction. When he was twelve years of age, he joined, as a juggler and tumbler, Raymond and Warings' circus, with which and other principle shows he traveled in this country until 1848. He then went to South America as a clown for the circus of Banks, Archer & Rockwell, returning by way of the West Indies. Archer died at Matanzas, Cuba, May 24, 1850, and the show disbanded in Charleston, S.C. soon afterward. The same year Mr. Welser joined Dan Rice's show as a clown, traveling with him from July, 1850 until March, 1851. He was afterward engaged with various leading companies until 1864, his last two seasons being with S.O. Wheeler & Co., Boston. In 1860, Mr Welser was the first and only man to drive four geese hitched to a common tub three feet in diameter down the Monongahela river from Brownsville to McKeesport, PA. In 1854 he came to McKeesport to train horses for Taylor & Wolf's circus, and in 1857 he married Mrs. Julia Stacy, a widow of means, who died February 7, 1886, leaving our subject all her fortune, which included cash, bank-stock and eight houses on Diamond Square and Market Street. Mr. Welser retired from the circus ring in 1864 and has been a resident of McKeesport since 1854. He is a prominent member of the I.O.O.F. and encampment, with which he has been identified thirty years; politically he is a republican."
"Dead-Oldest Circus Clown succumbs to Paralysis. Was for Many Years a Prominent Resident of McKeesport-Close of a Remarkable Life: Samuel Rowe Welser, the oldest circus clown, died a the home of his father-in-law, James Wilson, 4951 Second Avenue, Pittsburg, from the effect of a third stroke of paralysis, aged 85 years, at 11:45 o’clock yesterday. His death ends a remarkable life. The deceased was born in Philadelphia on Easter Sunday, April 16, 1810, lived for many years in McKeesport, and had been a reident of Pittsburgh for 11 years. At an early age he revealed a fondness for circus life, and began the career, which later gave him a world-wide reputation, by training circus horses for James Taylor, of McKeesport. In December, 1847, he was employed in the museum at Boston, where he first began his work as a clown. In company with the famous Dan Rice and other noted showmen he traveled with Maley & Older’s circus through South America, Central America and Mexico. Upon his return to the United States he entered the service of Dan Rice, who started on the road with what would be called a one-horse show. As a circus man Mr. Welser travled over the greater portion of the world, both in the capacity of wagon driver and clown, and had mastered several foreign languages. While most of the time he was with the largest circus companies of the country, for several years he conducted a small centriloquial and tumbling show of his own. He was well known to all the showmen in the Western Hemisphere, and kept a meorandum of all the famous circus people he had known and what befell them. He will be especially remembered by the older residents of this vicinity for a remarkable voyage he made many years ago down the Monongahela river from Brownsville to Monongahela in a tub drawn by four large white geese. He was cheered by people who lined both banks of the river. Mr. Welser had been married three times. He was united to his first wife in Philadelphia, and to that union were born town sons, who survive him. He came to McKeesport in 1853. His second wife was Julia Stacey, whom he married in 1856 in McKeesport, and who died childless in 1886. In 1889 he fell in love with Pearl Wilson, a 16 year old girl of this city, and they were married on May 10 the same year and moved to Hazelwood. She died June 6, 1891. The funeral services will be held this evening at 8 o’clock at the residence of his father-in-law, James Wilson, in Hazelwood, and the remains will be brought to McKeesport for interment in the Versailles cemetery, on the 11:12 B&O train tomorrow, when the services will be conducted by Yohogany Lodge No. 364, I.O.O.F., of which he was a member. Mr. Welser was possessed of property in McKeesport valued at $60,000." McKeesport (PA) Daily News, May 29, 1901. Also see Slout's Olympians on this website.
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Betty Wendany was owner of Wendany's Funs-A-Poppin Circus. Died October 23, 1982. Her daughter, Heidi operated the circus after her death. Circus Report, February 1, 1983, p. 8.
I am Heidi Wendany, she was my mother, I took over her show after she died. My email is billytingun@hotmail.
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Charles Wertz (Chad), circus performer and catcher in the Siegrist-Silbon act with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, died suddenly in San Francisco, September 9, age 50. He had been associated with the Barnum Show for the past twenty years. The remains, accompanied by the widow, Elizabeth, were shipped to Lincoln, Neb., for interment. Billboard, September 21, 1918, p. 24. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Charles West, performer, Hagenbeck-Wallace 1924. White Tops, Vol. 16, Nos. 3-4 (Feb-Mar), 1943, p. 7. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Chas. M. West, late of Kennedy and West, has signed with Sells Bros.' Shows for this season to do his harp song and dance in the concert. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
James West, principal clown, Norris & Rowe, 1905. Woodland (CA) Daily Democrat, April 15, 1905. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
James G. West. Wm. La Rue and James G. West will go out with the Forepaugh & Sells Bros.' Show this season, joining it at Columbus, O., in April, 1906. New York Clipper, March 17, 1906, p. 114. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Aerial Wests, trapeze, perch, Hagenbeck-Wallace 1924. White Tops, Vol. 16, Nos. 3-4 (Feb-Mar), 1943, p. 7. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
George Whalen, clown, Frank A. Robbins, 1907. Portsmouth (NH) Herald, June 6, 1907; Bandwagon, Nov-Dec, 2001, p. 33. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
James Whalen, died October 17, 1941 at Baraboo, Wisconsin, age 79. Superintendent of canvas with Ringling brothers shows for over forty years. Buried St. Joseph's cemetery, Baraboo. "James Whalen Passes Away after a Few Days Illness," White Tops, Vol. 14, No. 12 (Oct-Nov), 1941, p. 14. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
David B. Wharton first joined a circus at age 16, the Beers & Barnes Circus. After college and Army service, he owned a restaurant. In 1968 he sold his restaurant, and with additional financial backing he framed the D. B. Wharton Circus, operating it until 1972. After the demise of the show he did booking and promotion for the Hunt Circus and Ozzie Schleentz's Royal Wild West Circus. He framed a walk-thru museum of oddities for carnival midways in 1978. In the 1980s he did booking and phones, and novelties and food concessions, and toured with his Holiday Magic Show. Died at Falls Church, Virginia, age 50. Circus Report, August 3, 1987, p. 29. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Punch Wheeler (real name H. E. Wheeler), press agent, John Robinson shows, 1903-1904, left show 1905; manager for Dockstader, 1905; advance, Floto Shows, 1905; Wheeler Bros. circus, 1916; Rubin-Cherry Shows, 1920. Wheeler said he began working as a press representative in 1873. Coshocton (OH) Daily Age, May 9, 1903; Cambridge City (IN) Tribune, March 19, 1903; 1904. Atlanta (GA) Constitution, September 16, 1904; Galveston (TX) Daily News, March 10, 1905; Coshocton (OH) Daily Age, April 14, 1905; Syracuse (NY) Herald, January 3, 1905; Tyrone (PA) Daily Herald, April 10, 1916; Logansport (IN) Pharos-Tribune, May 31, 1920.
Punch Wheeler, dean of circus and carnial press agents, late of the Yankee Robinson Circus, has been engaged for the coming season to handle the publicity department of the C. A. Wortham interests. Billboard, February 8, 1919, p. 9.
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S. O. Wheeler, who was proprietor of Wheeler's Circus, and afterwards was in company the season with Hitchcock & Hatch, and last season was selling tickets on a percentage basis with Adam Forepaugh's Circus, is now at North Berwick, Me., running a small hotel. New York Clipper, April 25, 1874, p. 31.
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Frederick Whillock, a musician, died at St. Luke's Hospital, Utica, N.Y., Aug. 30 [1905], from Bright's disease, after a long illness, aged fifty-two years. Mr. Hitllock's first professional engagement was under Harry Braham, with Charley Shay's Quincuplexal, in 1873. He afterwards played in New York theatres and traveled with Cal Wagner's Minstrels, Healey's Hibernian Mistrels, John O'Brien's Circus, Bachelor & Doris Circus, and with John B. Doris' Circus. He also traveled with the Forepaugh Shows, Wallace Shows, Walter L. Main, Scribner & Smith, George S. Cole, and the Sparks Show. His last engagement was with the John Robinson Shows in 1902. He is survived by his mother, sister and two brothers. The funeral was held at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, at Oriskany, and burial was made in the local cemetery. New York Clipper, September 9, 1905, p. 730. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this person.
Whirl, assistant to general manager "Hans" Wagner, Sells-Floto, 1909. Daily Press (Sheboygan, WI), August 4, 1909. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Albert White, was a clown on Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey from 1945-1961. He also appeared on Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus and Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros, as well as in the films "Jumbo" and "The Greatest Show On Earth." He clowned for 50 years and died November 15, 1974 in Sarasota, Florida. Southern Sawdust, No. 82, February, 1975, pp. 10-11. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Charles White, animal trainer. See biographical article written by his son in Bandwagon, October, 1943, Vol 2, No. 6, pp. 1-2. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
F. W. White, tuba, is a resident of Wahoo, Neb. His first engagement on the road was with the D’Ormand Dramatic Company in 1890. He has filled several later engagements satisfactorily, the past season being with the Ringling Bros. “World’s Greatest.” Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
John White has been in the employ of the Ringling Bros. show a number of years and filled various important positions. In ’89, ’90, ’91 and 92 he acted as boss bill-poster of Car No. 1, but during the present season has occupied a position with the show. His duties are in the nature of an accountant’s at the cook house, and at the front door he is one of the principal ticket takers. In addition to these duties, manny other details are intrusted to his care. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Capt. John White, known throughout the country as a circus man and museum proprietor, died at his home in Chicago last week from pneumonia. He had been ill for some time. He was born in Chicago fifty-four years ago, and almsot his first employment was with the Forepaugh Circus. He became manager of one of the departments of the ring performace after long service. Leaving Forepaugh's, he traveled around the country with canvas shows for years. When he died he was manager and proprietor of the London Dime Museum, in State Street, near Congress Street, Chicago, a house which he had conducted for years. New York Clipper, May 10, 1902, p. 251. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Lawrence C. White was an elephant man for Ringling-Barnum in the early 1930s, later worked at the Jungle Compound in Thousand Oaks, California, training elephants for movies. In later years he worked as a security guard. Born in 1911, he died Mary 8, 1981 at Boise, Idaho. Circus Report, March 23, 1981, p. 19. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
The Whitings have closed with the Orpheum Specialty Co., and in two weeks start out with the Wallace Show for the summer season. New York Clipper, April 21, 1894, p. 102. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
W. C. "Dad" Whitlark, perhaps the oldest active circus star in the circus field. Born in Ypsilanti, Michigan in 1855 [June], he is now in his seventy-ninth year, and yet he does a more wonderful difficult contortion act today than the youth of nineteen years. So remarkable is the work of "Dad" as he is familiarly called around the white tops, that Ripley featured him in his cartoon "Believe it or not." His father having become a hopeless invalid, young Whitlark was forced at the age of ten years to quit school and help his mother keep the family together in Ann Arbor. When eighteen years of age, he lived with an uncle on a farm near Lansing. There was a wagon show wintering there and acting on the advice of his uncle who had noticed the limber antics of the boy, young Whitlark "joined out." Since then he has been constantly before the public, having been with forty-eight enterprises. However he had some vacations when he suffered broken ribs, and again in 1909 when he had both ankles broken. Another time he had six boils on the back of his neck and as his act requires him to put both feet on the back of his neck Dad had another vacation period. . . . "Dad" Whitlark is a remarkable feature with Russell Bros. Three Ring Circus which exhibits in Clearfield Friday, July 13th. . . . "Dad" is modest in reference to his arenic performance but he is proud of the fact that his father was a cousin of Queen Victoria and his mother was a niece of General Lee of confederate fame. [Note: did an aerial contortion act.] From: Clearfield (PA) Progress, July 6, 1934; Coshocton Tribune, May 4, 1934. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
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W. H. “Dad” Whitlark was my great-grandfather. I have attached a photo of him, circa 1925. Below you will find a short (as short as one could be to document a circus career that spans 60 years and over 50 shows) well-documented biography of Dad. - Patrick J. Friedrich.
W. H. “Dad” Whitlark was a contortionist (front bender) and aerialist with a circus career that spanned more than sixty years. He was born William Henry Whitlark on 6 Sep 1862 in Ypsilanti MI (1) to Thomas Barrow Whitlark and Caroline Lee. Dad’s grandfather, Thomas John Start “Uncle John” Whitlark, emigrated to the U.S. from England in 1836 with his four sons, William Wadkin, Joseph, John Watte, and Thomas Barrow (2) (3). Uncle John had, that year, purchased land in Ann Arbor Township MI, where he erected a steam saw mill and worked the trees into lumber.(4) This property became known as the "Whitlark Homestead." Both of Dad’s siblings were born on the Homestead.(1) An older brother, John, was born in 1859, and a younger sister, Lillie, was born in 1866.
In a manuscript (5) transcribed by circus historian John Patrick Grace of Kokomo IN, from a diary given to Dr. Edwin J. Butterfield of Dallas Center IA, Whitlark describes his introduction to the circus: “My father having become a hopeless invalid, I was forced at the age of ten years old to quit school and help my mother keep the family together. The summer of 1869, I was working on a farm South of Ypsilanti. The Dan Rice Overland Circus was showing there and I went to see it. That was my first show. I see Mrs. Dan Rice drive 40 horses hitched to the band wagon in the parade and a man starting of one foot and landing on the same foot and I seen three men due a giant on a horizontal bar at the same time. From then I had show biz in my head. The winter of 1873-74 I lived with an Uncle on a farm near Lansing, Mich. There was a wagon show wintering at Lansing and acting upon the advice of my uncle who had noticed the limber antics of me, I joined out that spring of 1874 with Worners wagon shows. And maid good.”
It should be noted that some of the dates and ages in this manuscript are contrived. In his later years, Whitlark claimed that he was born in 1855. This claim resulted in Dad’s appearance in a 31 Aug 1931 Ripley’s Believe it or Not cartoon as “W.H. Whitlark- age 76 years is the oldest living gymnast. He still performs contortions he did 60 years ago” (6) (7). Further, he was featured with his own bill in a 1934 Russell Brothers poster. The bill was one of a set of three posters produced for the Russell Brothers 1934 season by the Donaldson Lithograph Co., depicting contortionist Whitlark, trapeze artist Athleta, and the “Leap for Life” act of The Great Dalbeanie.(8) The poster bills Whitlark as “The Dean of Circus Stars. A Circus Feature for 60 Years” and has an inset featuring a Believe It Or Not by Ripley billing “Dad Whitlark, although now 78 years of age, he is a more sensational contortionist than a youth of 19 years.”
According to the manuscript, Whitlark participated in the following shows and circuses: 1874 & 1877-Warner’s Overland Wagon Show, 1875 & 1878-Whitney Family Wagon Shows, 1876-Mat Wixom & Brothers Wagon Shows, 1888-A.H. Reed’s Wagon Shows & Reed’s Southern Visitors, 1889 to 1890-Charles Bartine’s Wagon Shows, 1890 to 1893 & 1897-A.J. Barker’s Flying Horses, 1892-Freeman A. Wilson’s Old Time Minstrels-Richmond VA (9), 1893-Green’s Fairground Show, 1894-Dr. White Cloud’s Medicine Company, 1894-Dr. Mathews Medicine Company, 1894 to 1895-Welsh Brothers Great Ten-cent Circus (10) (11), 1895-Diamond Jack’s Medicine Company, 1896 & 1898-G.W. Belford Wagon Show, 1896-Columbia Specialty Company, 1896-Mont Morenzo’s Moorish Tribe (12),1897-Jack Furties Medicine Company, 1897-Bob Hunting’s RR Circus, 1898-Gibbs and McGregor Merchant Shows, 1898-Dr. Spangler Medicine Company, 1898-Bostock Carnival Company, 1898 to 1899-Jack Cassel Balloon Company, 1899 to 1900-Lowery Brothers New Olympia Show (13), 1901-Sun Brothers Worlds Progressive Shows (14), 1901-W.H. Harris Nickel Plate Shows, 1902-James Adams Wagon Shows, 1903-Pilmore Carnival Company, 1903-Word & Company, 1904-Ferari Brothers Carnival, 1904-Sipe & Blake’s Dog & Pony Circus, 1905 to 1907 & 1917-Lucky Bill Shows (15) (16) (17) (18), 1907 to 1908-Prichard Carnival Company, 1908 to 1909 & 1918 to 1919-Mighty Haag Shows (19), 1909-Rogers & Clark Dog & Pony Show (20), 1909 to 1910-Lone Star Minstrels, 1910 to 1911-Mysterious Smith Company (21) (22), 1911-Whitlark & Bessent, 1911 to 1912-Henderson Stock Company, 1912-Cramer’s Dog Show, 1912-Bancroft Brothers Dentist Company, 1913-Dr. Smysley, 1913-Slocum’s Medicine Company, 1913 to 1914-Frank Hall Shows, 1914 to 1915-Whitlark & Granger, 1915-Whitlark & Hall, 1915 to 1916-Whitlark’s Jesse James Company, 1916 & 1918 & 1922-Honest Bill & Lucky Bill Shows, 1919 to 1920-Rose Killian Shows, 1920 to 1921 & 1923 to 1924-Honest Bill Shows, 1925 & 1927-Moon Brothers Circus, 1925-Orange Brothers Circus, 1926-Orange Brothers-Moon Brothers Circus, 1928-Singer Brothers Shows (23), 1929 to 1935-Russell Brothers Circus. (8) (24) (25) (26) (27) (28) (29) (30) (31) (32) (33) (34) (35) (36) (37) (38) (39) (40) He also performed at theaters, halls, and beer gardens too numerous to list.
The following is taken from an article is from the Piqua Daily Call and is repeated, almost verbatim, in many newspapers along the Russell Brothers 1934 route:
"The program of the Russell Bros. Circus, like that of some other big circuses, has many foreign acts, many of them of international renown. It is generally conceded that in the class of acts done by foreigners they are extraordinarily clean, perfect and well dressed. They seem to insist on absolute perfection in their work more than Americans. However there are several American performers with the Russell Circus who dispute this claim of superiority on the part of the foreigners.
"The Russell Circus has representatives from Russia, from France, from Australia, from Germany, from England and Ireland, but it also has a good representation of clever Americans, who are headliners in their line. Among these is Dad Whitlark, perhaps the oldest active circus star in the circus field. Born in Ypsilanti, Michigan in 1855, he is now in his seventy-ninth year, and yet he does a more wonderful difficult contortion act today than the youth of nineteen years. So remarkable is the work of ‘Dad’ as he is familiarly called around the white tops, that Ripley featured him in his cartoon ‘Believe it or not.'
"His father having become a hopeless invalid, young Whitlark was forced at the age of ten years to quit school and keep the family together in Ann Arbor. When eighteen years of age, he lived with an uncle on a farm near Lansing. There was a wagon show wintering there and acting upon the advice of his uncle who had noticed the limber antics of the boy, young Whitlark ‘joined out.’ Since then he has been constantly before the public, having been with forty-eight enterprises. However he had some vacations when he suffered broken ribs, and again in 1909 when he had both ankles broken. Another time he had six boils on the back of his neck and as his act requires him to put both feet on the back of his neck Dad had another vacation period. Barring accidents Dad’s health is perfect now, at seventy-nine years of age. He ascribes his health to steady work, outdoor life and careful eating. At one time he discovered he was becoming unable to handle liquor so he quit it entirely and he did likewise with cigarettes when he concluded they were hurting his breath.
"‘Dad’ Whitlark is a remarkable feature with Russell Bros. Three Ring Circus which exhibits in Piqua, Thursday, May 10th, and it is safe to say that in this city as in other places where the Russell Circus exhibits he will be given an ovation at the finish of his act. ‘Dad’ is modest in reference to his arenic performance but he is proud of the fact that his father was a cousin of Queen Victoria and his mother was a niece of General Lee of Confederate fame.” (40)
Although it is unclear whether Dad actually believed his claimed lineage to Robert E. Lee and Queen Victoria, these claims have no basis in fact.
Although no mention is made in the manuscript, there is an Elmira Daily Gazette article about the ninth annual tour of the Welsh Brothers big city show, then exhibiting in the rear of the Eagle Hotel. Among the performers, the article lists “Whitlark and Kaminski are surnamed the human eels and it does not seem possible that any person can twist his body in all imaginable shapes as did these two metonic limber limbed individuals.” (41). Whitlark is listed as a prop man for the Athens Theater in Ann Arbor for 1903-1904 and 1904-1905.(42) (43) Dad wintered in Ann Arbor in 1901-1902 and 1902-1903. He spent the winter of 1903-1904 in Hamilton OH and the winter of 1904-1905 in Alton IL (44), working at the Illinois Glass Works.
Whitlark performed briefly with his second wife, an actress named Mary Meenan from Philadelphia PA in 1893. Dad performed with a common-law wife, an aerialist named Emma Snyder from York Springs PA, from 1897 until 1901.(14) Whitlark met Snyder while touring with Jack Furties Medicine Company. Dad also performed with another common-law wife, an aerialist, singer, and dancer named Elfie Shepherd from Turner MI, from 1903 until at least 1912. (15) (17) (18) (19) (21) (22) (45) Whitlark and Shepherd had two children: a son, William Barrow Whitlark, born Apr 1904 in Hamilton OH and died Jul 1904 in Indianapolis IN, and a daughter, Quenemo Shepherd Whitlark, born Sept 1906 in Quenemo KS and died Feb 1907 in Quenemo. Whitlark’s relationship with Shepherd began when he reported early for the 1903 Whitley Wagon show. He broke Shepherd in on Balancing Trapeze and Swinging Perch.(5) Whitlark was also twice married to, in 1879 and 1902, and divorced from, in 1887 and 1922, Augusta Dean, a seamstress, and later, an evangelist from Ann Arbor MI. Some time around 1920 (46), Dean established the Bethel Faith Home in Ann Arbor, from which she ran her ministry. Whitlark and Dean had a son Claude Henry Franklin “Frank” Whitlark: born Aug 1880 in Ann Arbor and died Mar 1950 in Detroit MI. Frank was an accomplished artist, musician, and maker of mandolins.(47)
According to the manuscript and corroborated by documents obtained from the National Archives and records obtained from the Veterans Administration (VA) resulting from a Freedom of Information Act request, Whitlark served in the 1st U.S. Cavalry Regiment from 1882 to 1887. He was stationed at Fort Walla Walla WA, Fort Bidwell CA, and Fort Maginnis MT. While off duty, Whitlark performed at balls and shows and in saloons and dance halls. While in the Army, Dad had more than his share of medical issues. Whitlark had a bad reaction to the vaccination that he received upon enlistment. It left him with some minor, yet permanent damage to his left arm. At Fort Walla Walla he was treated for fever, an abscess, whitlow, and a bruised left knee (from being kicked by a horse). While at Fort Bidwell, he was treated for boils, ear inflammation, and tonsillitis. Before leaving Bidwell he was treated by Army surgeon George Martin Kober for gunshot wounds received in a saloon fracas. Kober later became the Dean of the Medical School at Georgetown University. While stationed at Fort Maginnis, Dad was kicked in the “package” by a horse. He was also treated for diarrhea, a sprained right wrist, and fever while at Maginnis. Dad tried, on a couple of occasions, in 1887 and again in 1926 to obtain a disability pension from the VA. He basically abandoned his first attempt, without the knowledge of his frustrated lawyer. The VA rejected his second attempt.
In the manuscript, Dad recalls a failed attempt in 1894 at another line of work: “I went back to Tangier Island and bought the Hotel Barber Shop. I ran the shop until the middle of July. The landlord and I got to drinking and business droped off. I closed up and went to Cristfield, Md., and joined a Med show.” It was shortly after this that he sobered up after a severe bawling out by a friend.
Whitlark began the 1935 season with the Russell Brothers, but by the beginning of June, became too ill to perform. He sought the help of Dr. Edwin J. Butterfield, an Iowa physician and a member of the Circus Fans Association. Dad’s illness had progressed such that a cure was not possible. When Whitlark left Iowa, he left his diary, a typewriter, and some photographs with the Butterfields. He then went to Rolla, Missouri and sought the help of his former employer. James H. Webb of the Russell Brothers Circus wrote a letter, dated 26 Aug 1935, to the VA on Dad’s behalf to attempt to secure placement in a soldier’s home, preferably the one in St. James, Missouri. The reply, dated 11 Sep 1935, instructed Whitlark as to the proper contacts for either the state soldier’s home in St. James or a federal soldier’s home. It appears as if Dad felt that he didn’t have enough time left to write any more letters to VA bureaucrats, so he went to Ada, Oklahoma to stay with friends, W.A. “Bud” Ellison and his wife Lottie. Bud owned the Garden Café in Ada.(48) Dad was admitted to the Breco Hospital on 13 Nov 1935. He died there at about 5 a.m. on 15 Nov 1935 from nephritis. Whitlark was buried in an unmarked grave in Rosedale Cemetery in Ada on 19 Nov 1935. Lottie Ellison made his funeral and burial arrangements. Around Sep 1936, members of the Russell Brothers Circus paid for a grave marker, a 3-1/2 foot tall obelisk, to be erected over Dad’s grave.(49) The marker reads as follows: “Erected by Russell Bros Circus W.H. 1855-1935 Whitlark.” Dad was born in the midst of the Civil War and died in the midst of the Great Depression. He saw “show biz” change from wagon shows to railroad circuses. His obituary in the Ada Evening News tells the story of “an interesting life that took Mr. Whitlark into thousands of communities, from the farm into the army and then circus life.” (50)
(1) History and Route of W.H. Whitlark, page 1
(2) History of Washtenaw County Michigan, vol. 2, 1881, p. 1056
(3) Portrait and Biographical Album of Washtenaw County Michigan, 1891, pp. 295-296
(4) Washtenaw County Deed, 11 Oct 1836, Book H, pp. 436-437
(5) Experiences, Routes, and History of Wm. H. Whitlark, John P. Grace-editor, 1 March 1940, unpublished
(6) "Believe It Or Not By Ripley," Hamilton (OH) Daily News, 31 Aug 1931, p. 12
(7) "Explanation of Monday’s Cartoon," Titusville (PA) Herald, 2 Sep 1931, p. 6
(8) "Russell Bros. Circus 1934 and 1935 Seasons," James H. Webb Jr., Bandwagon, May-June 1981, p. 16
(9) New York Clipper, 30 Jan 1892, p. 776, c. 4
(10) "Welsh Brothers’ Circus," Williamsport (PA) Daily Gazette and Bulletin, 1 Jul 1895, p.5
(11) Tyrone (PA) Daily Herald, 10 Aug 1895, p. 4, c. 3
(12) New York Clipper, 21 Nov 1896, p. 601, c. 1
(13) "Rays From Sun Brothers’ World’s Progressive Shows," New York Clipper, 19 May 1900, p. 265
(14) "Rays From Sun Brothers’ World’s Progressive Shows," New York Clipper, 2 Mar 1901, p. 15
(15) "The Big 25 Cent Wagon Show Or The Times & Troubles of Lucky Bill Newton," Orin Copple King, Bandwagon, November-December 1992, p. 5
(16) "The Big 25 Cent Wagon Show Or The Times & Troubles of Lucky Bill Newton," Orin Copple King, Bandwagon, November-December 1992, p. 11
(17) "Lucky Bill Notes," New York Clipper, 28 Oct 1905, p. 923
(18) "Directory of Tent Show People, Etc., Season of 1906," New York Clipper, 7 July 1906, pp. 530-533
(19) "The Haag Mighty Shows," Hazel Green (KY) Herald, 11 Jun 1908, p. 3
(20) New York Clipper, 10 Jul 1909, p. 562, c. 5
(21) "Notes From the Mysterious Smith Company," New York Clipper, 4 Feb 1911, p. 1277
(22) Waterloo (IA) Times Tribune, 18 May 1911, p. 10, c. 6
(23) "Singer Bros. Combined Show," Llano (TX) News, 12 Apr 1928, p. 8
(24) "Russell Bros. Circus 1934 and 1935 Seasons," James H. Webb Jr., Bandwagon, May-June 1981, p. 14
(25) "Today Is Circus Day," Emporia (KS) Daily Gazette, 18 Sep 1933, p. 2
(26) "A Small But Good Circus," Emporia (KS) Daily Gazette, 19 Sep 1933, p. 6
(27) "Advertising of Truthful Nature New Circus Plan," Piqua (OH) Daily Call, 5 May 1934, p. 10
(28) "With Russell Circus," Utica (NY) Daily Press, 19 May 1934, p. 4
(29) "Unusual Arrays Stars Come With Russell Circus," Oswego (NY) Palladium Times, 15 Jun 1934, p. 3
(30) A Circus Star 60 Years," Oswego (NY), Palladium Times, 19 Jun 1934, p. 2
(31) "Clever Acts In Russell Circus," Oswego (NY), Palladium Times, 25 Jun 1934, p. 7
(32) "Great Circus Stars Coming With the Russell Circus," Indiana (PA) Evening Gazette, 6 Jul 1934, p. 3
(33) "Russell Circus Comes To Town," Indiana (PA) Evening Gazette, 10 Jul 1934, pp. 1-2
(34) "Circus Weathers Hard Times And World Changes, Becomes Firmly Established Custom," Clearfield (PA) Progress, 11 Jul 1934, p. 8
(35) "Circus Plays To Large Audiences," The (Hagerstown MD) Daily Mail, 2 Aug 1934, p. 3
(36) Circus Day In Town Today With Russell Bros. Down On North Main St. Lot," Burlington (NC) Daily Times-News, 14 Aug 1934, p. 8
(37) "Circus Stars Never Grow Old," A. Morton Smith, Ogden (UT) Standard Examiner, 3 Mar 1935, p. 30
(38) "Old Circus Saying Is Not True Today," Hamilton (OH) Daily News-Journal, 12 Apr 1935, p. 10
(39) "Whitlark Real Circus Veteran," Sandusky (OH) Register, 11 May 1935, p. 2
(40) "Circus Honors Are About Equally Divided Between Aliens, Americans," Piqua (OH) Daily Call, 28 Apr 1934, p. 10
(41) "Welsh Bros.’ Show," Elmira (NY) Daily Gazette, 16 July 1897, p. 7
(42) Julius Cahn’s Official Theatrical Guide, 1903-1904, vol. 8, p. 442
(43) Julius Cahn’s Official Theatrical Guide, 1904-1905, vol. 9, p. 456
(44) "Wanted," Alton (IL) Evening Telegraph, 4 Oct 1904, p. 8
(45) "Clipper Post Office," New York Clipper, 10 August 1912, p. 7
(46) R.L. Polk & Co.’s Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and Washtenaw County Directory 1920, pp. 18, 136, 528
(47) "Mandolin Maker," Detroit (MI) News, 24 Mar 1946
(48) Interstate Directory Company’s Ada Oklahoma City Directory 1934-35, p. 130
(49) "Whitlark Memorial Erected by Members of Russell Show," Billboard, 17 Oct 1936
(50) "Aged Ex-Cavalryman, Circus Man Reaches End of Long Trail Here," Ada (OK) Evening News, 18 Nov 1935, p. 6
Charley Whitney
Charley Whitney, the well-known press agent, who is now the chief door-tender at the Grand Central Variety Theatre, Philadelphia, will probably travel with Forepaugh's Circus the coming Summer. New York Clipper, January 27, 1877, p. 351.
Charley Whitney, veteran advance agent, who possesses a wealth of experience in the circus business, after an absence of a couple of years, caused by the unfortunate accident he met with, is about to take the road again, having received several offers. At present he is acting as doorkeeper of the Grand Central Variety Theatre, Philadelphia. New York Clipper, February 24, 1887, p. 383.
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Lester A. Whitson, acrobat, traveled with many of the major circuses during his 50 years in show business. Performed with the Lucky Boys and the Six American Belfords. Died late 1979 at Kendallville, Indiana, age 81. Circus Report, March 31, 1980, p. 14. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Francis Warren Whittaker
"The Arena" is the name of a snug little saloon recently started by the well-known Frank Whittaker at Fourth avenue, between Twenty-fifth and Twenty-sixth streets. New York Clipper, March 31, 1877, p. 7.
Francis Warren Whittaker, better known as "Pop" Whittaker, died at the house of his sister, Mrs. Kenerman, at Greenville, N.J., Feb. 12. He had for three years past suffered from dropsy. The deceased was born in this city in 1818, and reared in Harlem, then one of the suburbs of the metropolis. He came of a circus family. When the late Major-general Charles W. Sandford opened the Mt. Pitt Circus in Grand street, opposite Herman street, now East Broadway, on the site occupied at present by Hoe’s(?) manufactory, young Whittaker’s father was back-doorkeeper. Pat Whittaker was rider and tumbler there and John Whittaker (who fought in the Mexican War and died in hospital in April 1847) was pad-rider. That was in 1826-7. It was probably in that spot that Frank was inducted to sawdust. He appeared later at Blanchard’s Amphitheatre, as in 1830 was called the old Chatham Theatre. The place was a circus during one season only, and in 1832 became a Presbyterian chapel and a hall for the performance of oratorios until the Broadway Tabernacle was erected, when it was converted into a hotel. Sweeney’s Hotel is on a part of the site. Young Whittaker was also attached for quite a while to the Bowery Amphitheatre, originally the Zoological Institute, and now a hotel. He had, besides, traveled far and near with circuses. About the time of the Mexican War he was ringmaster with Welch & Delevan’s Circus for several seasons. As ringmaster he rendered P. T. Barnum good service from about 1873 forward, and he will be recalled pleasantly by many of our readers as the hard worker at the Hippodrome, now Madison Square Garden, while James M. Nixon, as director of amusements, was brought in and taken out in a carriage. At the Garden, also, "Pop" Whittaker was master of ceremonies for more than one six-day go-as-you-please pedestrian venture. He was at the Walnut street Circus, Philadelphia, in 1854-5-6. The last circus we remember him as being with prior to beginning his long stay with Barnum was O’Brien’s, about 1871. His wife, Maggie, was then traveling with him. Se was a graduate of the Philadelphia Medical College, and began doctoring about 1861. She survives him. His first wife was a graceful circus rider of the old days, and one of the three daughters - Mary Ann, Amelia and Louisa - of John Grimaldi Wells, the clown, who died in 1852. Frank and Mary Ann separated. During the past ten years Mr. Whittaker had taken part in many ventures. For a while he kept a public house in this city. In the Summer of 1879 he opened a circus in his name at the Brighton Fair grounds, Coney Island, but it was not his capital that was behind it. It closed in about two weeks’ time. Early in January, 1881, while crossing the Bowery at Houston street, he was run over by a freight car of the Harlem Railroad, and had to have an arm amputated. He was a Royal Arch Mason and an Elk, and is to buried in Philadelphia to-day, Feb. 15, under the direction of the Elks’ Lodge of that city. The arrangements are to be immediately under the control of Treasurer Charles H. Brooks and Jule Keen of the Wild West Show, with which the deceased appeared until several weeks ago, when he became too feeble for service. His wife is wardrobe woman with that organization. Robert Whittaker, the rider, is Frank’s son, we believe. New York Clipper, February 19, 1887.
Mrs. Frank Whittaker. "Aunt" Louisa Eldridge writes: ". . . the death of Mrs. Frank Whittaker, widow of Frank Whittaker, the well known circus man. Mrs. Whittaker, for some years past, has been engaged as wardrobe woman of the Wild West Show and traveled with that organization throughout this country and Europe. Col. Cody was greatly attached to the old lady and always called her "mamma." In fact, she was known by that endearing title by everybody - even the Indians called her 'mamma,' believing that to be her name. She died at her residence, 496 W. Thirty-sixth Street, Wednesday, Oct. 12 [1904], of pneumonia, after an illness of two days. Her sister, living in Jersey City, was notified of her illness, but when she arrived her sister had passed away, which so shocked her that she, too, died the next day." New York Clipper, October 29, 1904, p. 836.
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H. H. Whittier, advance agent, Sun Bros., 1908. Richwood (OH) Gazette and Marysville Republican, July 2, 1908. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Ed Widaman appeared on many circuses with his elephants. Died November 6, 1984 at Gainesville, Texas, age 87. Circus Report, December 10, 1984, p. 26. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Thomas F. Wiedeman. Kempton Komedy Co., dramatic troupe, 1892. Stock show, tent, owner, 12 years. 2 car wild west show, 1907. Kit Carson Buffalo Ranch Show, 1911-1914. Barton & Bailey Show, 1915. General Agent with carnival company, 7 years. No. 2 W. I. Wsaih Show, 1923, half owner, dramatic co. Pacific Whaling Co., whale exhibit, 1931-1932. Classics and flags, consolidated schools, 6 years. Died at age of 67 years, Jackson, Michigan, May 10, 1939. Bandwagon, Vol. 7, No. 6 (Nov-Dec), 1963, p. 21. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Ernie Wiegand, 24 hour man on the Herb Walters Circus for several years. Also worked on Obert Miller's Fairyland Circus and Carson & Barnes. His wife, Gladys, worked on the front door. Died August 9, 1980. Circus Report, September 1, 1980, p. 15. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Gladys Wiegand and her husband Ernie were with Cole & Walters Circus for about 10 years, putting up arrows and working ads. Later they were on the front door with Carson & Barnes. Died December, 9, 1985 at McAllen, Texas, age 86. Circus Report, December 23, 1985 (No. 50), n.p.n. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Charles Wiegehausen, master of wardrobe, Buffalo Bill's Wild West, 1900. Died May 17, 1900 at Philadelphia, from pneumonia, age 34. Had been with the show for five years. Interred Greenwood Cemetery, Philadelphia. Billboard, June 2, 1900. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
E. W. Wiggins
E. W. Wiggins, circus manager, of Detroit, Mich., is looking for attractions for the coming season. New York Clipper, January 12, 1878, p. 334.
Phil Milligan, glass-blowner, and E. W. Wiggins, circus privileges, are in Detroit, Mich., preparing for the tenting season. New York Clipper, February 16, 1878, p. 375.
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Jackie Wilcox, contracting agent, Bud Anderson's show, 1941. Formerly with Russell Bros. and Seal Bros. "Circus Notes," White Tops, Vol. 14, Nos. 4-5 (Feb-Mar), 1941, p. 4. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
William F. Wilcox ("Bill"), advance brigade manager, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, 1941. He was also with Cole and Seal Bros. Had been with Ringling-Barnum past three years. Died June 9, 1974 at Little Rock, Arkansas. "Circus Notes," White Tops, Vol. 14, Nos. 4-5 (Feb-Mar), 1941, p. 4; Circus Report, July 1, 1974, p. 5. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Joe Wilde, clown, formerly with John Robinson, Howe's Great London and Sells-Floto shows, is a private with 150th Supply in France. Billboard, June 1, 1918, p. 27. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
James W. Wilder, recently deceased, was connected with the show business from his youth. He was agent for Spalding & Rogers' Circus about 1854, and was part proprietor of Goodwin & Wilder's Circus later. He was with John H. Murray's Circus and had piloted "Artemus Ward" (Chas. Farrar Browne) through this country and also "Dr. Lynn" (Simmons), the magician. He was at one time manager of the Hanlons, and concerned in many other enterprises of the kind. Latterly he had been engaged in boring artesian wells in California. He died in San Francisco, Aug. 15, aged sixty-three years. He was a native of New Hampshire. New York Clipper, September 14, 1889, p. 443. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Jack Wilhelm, see Belfords. Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
James Wilkes was in the prop department with Cole Bros. Circus, 1935, the cookhouse in 1936 and the ticket wagon in 1937. He joined Ringling-Barnum in 1938. Died January 31, 1989 at South Bend, Indiana, age 73. Circus Report, February 27, 1989, p. 3. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
William Thomas Wilkins, professionally known as Whirlwind Wilkins, was killed at Alto, Tex., May 31, in an airplane accident. At the time of his death Mr. Wilkins was connected with the Bostwick-Davis Players, and was preparing to enter the ranks of Uncle Sam's air fighters. Mr. Wilkins entered show business as an aerial performer in 1907. During 1907 and 1908 he and Leon Boswick(?) did a double trapeze act, playing through Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas. In 1909 he joined hands with Ralph Lohse, now of the team of Lohse and Sterling. Since then Mr. Wilkins had been connected with various circuses, the last of which was Honest Bill's. His body was shipped to the home of his mother in Lovelady, Tex. He is survived by his widowed mother, three brothers and one sister. Billboard, June 15, 1918, p. 66. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Clyde H. Willard, the past season with John Robinson's brigade, is now connected with the Grand Theater at Union, S.C., as advertising manager. Clyde will again be with the Ten Big this year, provided he is not drafted. Billboard, January 26, 1918, p. 31. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
San Francisco, March 16. C. Lee Williams, age 52, amusement and veteran circus manager, one of the old guard of theatrical managers, died at the Almeda (Cal.) Sanitarium Tuesday night of heart trouble. He was the first manager of the Hagenbeck Shows. Williams started his show career years ago as manager of the Cincinnati Zoological Garden. He became business manager of the Hagenbeck Shows, and scored a success at the World's Fair in St. Louis. In partnership with John Havlin and Frank Tate, Williams put the show under canvas, and it was later taken over by Ben Wallace. Williams then joined Al G. Field's Minstrels as business manager. He has been identified with the Shuberts, Klaw & Erlanger and the Frohmans has house and company manager. At one time he was manager of the old Chestnut Street Theater, Philadelphia. He came to California during the exposition, and was last season associated with the Neptune Beach and Pleasure Park at Almeda. He is survived by a father and mother, residing in Los Angeles, and a sister in the East. Billboard, March 23, 1918, p. 154. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Chas. Williams, the second assistant in the canvas department, and Louis Gabel, the third assistant, have charge of the rings, reserved seats and menagerie canvas. In addition to this work, they are two very energetic men in carrying out various orders emanating from their chief. Mr. Williams is one of the recent additions to the executive force of the Ringling Bros. canvas department, while Mr. Gabel has been with the show the most of the time for the past six or seven years. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Claude Williams arrived in this city Feb. 11, direct by steamship from San Francisco, Cal., having in charge four sea lions, consigned to the Barnum Show. Mr. Williams travels with Adam Forepaugh's Circus the coming season, as press agent. New York Clipper, February 17, 1877, p. 375. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
H. J. Williams, agent, Cole & Rogers, 1910. Bessemer (MI) Herald and New Free Press, July 2, 1910. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
H. L. Williams, talker, formerly with the John Robinson, Danny Robinson and J. Frank Hatch shows, died at Hamilton, O., April 17, of a floating kidney. Billboard, May 4, 1918, p. 66. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Ida Williams. Among the many strange and curious people exhibited in the museum none attract more entertainingly the attention of the audiences than Miss Ida Williams, known as the Mastodonic Fashion-plate. Miss Williams combines with a weight exceeding 500 pounds an unusual degree of personal attractiveness and beauty. She is a most entertaining conversationalist, and any hour of the day will find her surrounded by throngs of interested ladies whose expressions of delight over her superb costumes and brilliant diamonds and jewelry can be heard on all sides. Miss Williams is a native of Ohio, 27 years of age and resides in California. Ringling Bros. 1893. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Williams Troupe, acrobats, Dode Fisk Shows, 1910. Marshfield (WI) Times, July 13 & 27, 1910. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Edward M. Willis, superintendent of privileges for Barnum & Bailey's Circus, died from heart failure July 23 [1904], at Kewanee, Ill. He was a well known showman, having been for many years with Sells Bros., the Wallace Show, and Walter L. Main's Shows. For the past two years he was with Barnum & Bailey. His wife was notified of his illness, and left New York immediately, but arrived too late to see Mr. Willis alive. Interment was in Pleasant View Cemetery, Kewanee, Ill., July 25, the Masons taking charge of the funeral. Mr. Willis was also a K. of P. and a Tiger. His wife, Trixie Adams, survives him. New York Clipper, August 6, 1904, p. 544. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Willi Wilno, human cannonball, was first shot out of a cannon in Germany in 1928. In 1929 he came to the United States and toured with Hagenbeck-Wallace for three years. He then worked independently through 1948, after this he was associated with the act, using other performers, until he retired in 1958. After retirement, he helped train performers for Peru's City Circus Festival. One of his greatest flights was at the 1939 World's Fair, when he was shot over a giant ferris wheel. His average flight was 60 feet high and 200 feet long, into a net. Born in Germany, died September 25, 1984 at Peru, Indiana, age 80. Circus Report, October 15, 1984, p. 23. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Johnny Wilson, former circus man, died of paralysis at the Johnson County Poor Farm, near Tecumseh, Neb., recently. He had been connected with Van Amburg, the Montgomery Queen Show, Yankee Robinson Circus and with Ringling Bros., his career covering a span of thirty years. Billboard, March 2, 1918, p. 66. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Joseph H. Wilson, former secretary and treasurer of the Sells-Floto Circus, died at Salinas, Cal., April 19, of pneumonia. He was 29 years old. His widow survives. Billboard, May 4, 1918, p. 66. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Lillian Wilson was an aerialist, animal trainer and clown. Retired in 1963, but returned to clowning in 1979 at age 81, appearing with her son, Dime Wilson. Died May 4, 1981 at Tampa, Florida, age 84. Circus Report, May 25, 1981, p. 13. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Harry Wills, musician, 101 Ranch Wild West, 1908. Eau Claire (WI) Leader, March 18, 1908. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Willi Wilno. A human cannonball with the circus, died at the age of 80 in 1984. Wilno was first fired out of a cannon in his native Germany in 1928, died Tuesday at a Fort Wayne Hospital. His funeral was scheduled for Thursday evening at Peru's circus building. He toured the United States with the old Peru-based Hagenbeck Wallace Circus, made one of his greatest flights in 1939 at the World's Fair in New York when he was shot over a giant ferris wheel. His average flight was 60 feet high and 200 feet long into a net. Fredrick Post (Frederick, MD), September 27, 1984. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
C. C. Wilson (Charlie), Nickel Plate Shows, 1900. Billboard, May 28, 1900. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
F. B. Wilson, press agent, Robinson's Big Ten Shows, 1900. Billboard, June 16, 1900. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
John Wilson, four horse rider and Charles McCarty, clown, leaper and tumbler, can be engaged for the coming tenting season. Address either at Aug's Club House, Vine street, Cincinnati, O. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, February 10, 1877, p. 367. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Knox Wilson is the very versatile gentleman who combines with rare musical abilities the humor and talent of producing a very clever and taking musical act. His work is performed on the stage of the Beech and Bowers minstrel performance. He is also at times the calliope player for Ringling Bros., and here as elsewhere displays his accomplishments to perfection. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Major Tom L. Wilson, advance, Walter L. Main, 1904. Titusville (PA) Herald, April 30, 1904. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Julius Winelow, band leader, Howe's Great London, 1911. Daily Independent (Monessen, PA) April 26, 1911; Chareroi (PA) Mail, April 24 & 26, 1911. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
John Wingfield. Wingfield and Gregory are prepared to negotiate with managers for the coming tenting season for their specialties: horizontal bar, "equilibric trapeze," and the "magic barrel," and the "dancing cross." John Wingfield, late of Washburn's Last Sensation. C. J. Gregory, late of the Russian Athletes. Direct letters to Clipper office. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, January 13, 1877, p. 331. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Henrietta S. Winn was a performer with the Winn Troupe for many years. She came to the United States in 1963 and appeared on many shows as an aerialist, horse trainer and bareback rider. Married Hans A. Winn. Died April 24, 1975 at Harbor City, California, age 41. Circus Report, August 25, 1975, p. 11. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
William Winner occupies the important position known to the circus profession as boss animal man. To him belongs the care of all the animals in the menagerie. Mr. Winner has had a long and eventful career in his peculiar branch of the business. He carries many scars which are the result of his numerous encounters with wild animals. These he has sustained while breaking and subduing them for performances of various kinds. As superintendent of the Ringling Bros. zoological department, Mr. Winner combines with natural abilities and inclinations an unusual amount of experience, covering a period of many years. The uniform courtesy with which visitors to the show are treated in the menagerie reflects the creditable methods employed in his department and so characteristic of the World’s Greatest Shows throughout. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Winston, Winston's pony riding seals, 1941. "Los Angeles Shrine Had One Night Circus," White Tops, Vol. 14, Nos. 4-5 (Feb-Mar), 1941, p. 4. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Zella Wintermute was the daughter of Halsey Wintermute, of the Wintermute Bros. Circus. She married Frank Hall and they operated the Vandenburg Bros. Circus until his death in 1938. Zella then became a social worker in Wisconsin. Died February 4, 1989 at Whitewater, Wisconsin, age 97. Circus Report, March 6, 1989, p. 22. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
May White Wirth began performing as a contortionist age age 5 with the Wirth's Circus in Australia. She was adopted by John and Marizles Wirth Martin of the Wirth's Circus when she was 6. She came to the United States in 1912 at age 17, making her debut with the Ringling circus, remaining with them until 1927. She then toured vaudeville until her retirement in 1937. She married Frank Edwin White in 1919, a circus performer who took the name Wirth. May was said to have been one of the few women to do a forward somersault on a horse and the only woman to do a backward somersault from one horse to another. Died October 18, 1978 in Sarasota, Florida, age 84. Circus Report, November 6, 1978, p. 2; January 15, 1979, p. 6. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
J. N. Wisner, twenty-three years ago general agent for the Harris Nickel Plate Shows, is now located in New Orleans on the Cotton Exchange. He has a home at St. Louis, Miss. Billboard, April 27, 1918, p. 30. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
John Wissenberger, wagon driver, Lemen Bros., 1900. At Wabash, Indiana in May 1900, There was a strange meeting between Mrs. Will Sturkin and her brother, John Wissenberger, at Logansport yesterday, after an absence of fourteen years, during which he was assumed dead. In 1886 Wissenberger was employed in a Logansport factory. One day he mysteriously disappeared. After unsuccessful attempts of his relatives to find him, he was given up as dead. Yesterday Mrs. Sturkin was viewing the Lemen Bros. parade at Logansport and was astonished to see her brother John seated on a wagon and driving four gray horses. She hastened to the circus grounds and found Wissenberger, who was equally astonished to see her. He admitted he was the real John, and with some persuasion Mrs. Sturkin induced him to quit the circus. He will remain in Logansport. Billboard, May 28, 1900. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
J. C. Wodetsky, at various times circus press agent, local contractor and car manager, is now assistant manager of the Great American Shows (carnival). Billboard, April 13, 1918, p. 29. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Vernon Woerner, Crackers the Clown, was a producing clown and chief builder. Built many of the floats on a number of Shrine circuses. Died February 21, 1984. Circus Report, March 12, 1984, p. 12. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Tilden Wolf, known as Ed Millette, was an apprentice to Al Millette in 1888 and performed with King & Franklin, Forepaugh-Sells and Ringling Bros. He operated a small one ring circus, 1912-13. He was with Ringling from 1916 to 1927 with his son, Ira. Circus Report, September 12, 1988, p. 18. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Mary K. Wolfarth, "Queenie Dunedin," see Dunedin Troupe.
Jim Wolfskill, band leader, and his sons, Roy and Troy, black musicians from Chillicothe, Missouri, Cole Bros., 1909. Chillicothe Constitution (MO), September 16, 1909. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Wolkowsky Duo, Russian acrobats, Forepaugh-Sells, 1905. Galveston (TX) Daily News, November 5, 1905. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Wolkowsky Troupe troupe was with the Orrin Brothers' Circus in Mexico early in 1906. New York Clipper, March 17, 1906, p. 114.. They were with the Adam Forepaugh and Sells Brothers' circus in 1906. "A troupe of Russian dancers, called the great Wolkowskys, a conspicuous in this list of imported artists. There are seven men and seven women in the party. . . . This is the first time they have ever been seen outside of the czar's domain." Spokane Daily Chronicle (WA), July 26, 1906, p. 16. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
From David Martin: The Wolkowsky Troupe mentioned are I believe my family, at the head was Aleaxnder George Wolkowsky and Boris Wolkowsky. In 1905 they toured with The Ringling Brothers Circus, arriving at New York from Europe on 29 Mar 1905 going on to Chicago. For the trips to America the sources are mainly incoming passenger lists. UK newspaper clippings refer to their touring of America but do not go into detail.
The troupe consisted of: Alexd Wolkowsky,36, M, Russian; Marie Wolkowsky,27, F, Russian; Masili Gorbunoff, 24, M, Russian; Ludmella Gorbunoff, 24, F, Russian; Max Franke, 20, M, Austri; Peter Drobinsky, 26, M, Austri; Boris Wolkowsky, 26, M, Austri; Charli Adler, 20, M, English; Matilde Alexandrows, 23, M, Russian; Lisa Alexandrows, 16, M, Russian; Hertha Schroth, 20, F, German; Hedwig Feustel, 14, F, German; Jenny Keyworth, 17, F, English; Franzl Seiffort, 16, M, Austrian.
They returned again in 1906 with Alexander Wolkowsky arriving from England at New York 11 Apr 1906 heading for Columbus, Ohio. In 1906 Alexander is shown arriving at New York heading to Ringling Bros, Columbus, Ohio and Boris is listed crossing the border by train at Laredo, Texas (16 -22) from Mexico.: Mr Alexander Wolkowsky, 38, M, Russian; Mr Nicoli Ivanoff, 26, M, Russian; Ms Marino Keritzenko, 22, F, Russian; Ms Matilda Alesandrowa, 23, F, Russian; Ms Ethel Alice Cox, 16, F, English; Ms Judy Field, 19, F, English
The rest of the troupe including Boris Wolkowsky crossed the border by train from Mexico at Laredo, Texas at the end of March 1906: Name, Age: B. Wolkowsky, 27; Walter Mausky, 23; Frina Mausky, 23; Franz Seifero, 17; Nassia Gorbouoff, 27; Lola Gorbouoff, 24; Lisa Wolkonisky, 17
This would fit in with the Orrin Brothers Circus performance in Mexico. The Wolkowsky Troupe were a traditional Russian song & dance troupe, so not sure how they fitted in with a circus I don't know. But they appear to have worked in Circuses in the Netherlands and Germany around 1909, they appeared at the Cystal Palace Circus in the mid 1920's of which there is film. Boris Wolkowsky died in England in 1910, his brother and most of his family continued to work in entertainment and settled in London, England in 1914. During the 1920's they appeared regularly on the London cabaret circuit.
From Sébastien Ducongé: Just some information about the Wolkowsky Troupe: They played at the Imperial Theater, Brooklyn NY, in January, 1906 (The Brooklyn Daily League, January 23th, 1906 - internet). - They played at the Alhambra theater in Paris (France) in April 1910 and in July 1921 (French Press on Gallica.bnf.fr). They played at the Gaumont Palace in Paris (France) in February/March 1913 (French Press on allica.bnf.fr). There are some pictures about this group on the internet (we have one in our family's photo collection). Best greetings, from France, Sébastien Ducongé Bye !
Wollenschlager, musician, Dode Fisk, 1910. Grand Rapids (WI) Tribune, December 21, 1910. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
George Wombold (Wormald) left his home in Bellevue, Ky., for Macon, Ga., for his second season with the Sun Bros.' Circus as boss canvasman. Billboard, April 6, 1918, p. 29. George Wombold (Wormald) will leave the Sun Bros.' Circus this week to join out with Al G. Barnes. Billboard, June 8, 1918, p. 27. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Sam Wong came to the United States in 1932 with the Jim Wong Troupe of acrobats. He toured with Ringling-Barnum, Hagenbeck-Wallace, Polack Bros., several Shrine shows and Gil Gray. When he retired, he operated a restaurant in Dallas, Texas. Died March 10, 1974 at Dallas. Circus Report, April 22, 1974, p. 11. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Frankie Lou Woods was an aerialist, performed on the tight wire and did riding acts. She was with Kelly-Miller, Dailey Bros., Roger Bros., Cole Bros., Richard Bros, Hanneford, Russell Bros., Clyde Beatty, Cristiani, Seal Bros. and her parents' show, Star Bros. Her father was Frank Woods, "Blackie." Died June 5, 1984 at Jonesboro, Arkansas, age 58. Circus Report, August 6, 1984, p. 14. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
George L. Woods. ". . . when Charles Andrews started with his small show he took with him a little boy of the name George Wood, who drew the princely salary of $1.50 per week for peddling programs and making himself generally useful. Wood is now one of the most successful and best known pony trainers in the business. He is with Ringling Bros., this year and a few weeks ago bought a half section of fine farm land near Topeka, Kans., for which he paid $10,000 in cash. In addition to this he owns some property near Brighton. . . ." Ottumwa (IA) Daily Courier, July 27, 1903; Woods also listed The Circus Annual Season 1903. A Route Book of Ringling Bros. World's Greatest Shows, Chicago, IL: Central Printing and Engraving Co., 1903. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Jimmie Wood, showman, wife Ruby. Began as a youth with M. L. Clarke show. Equestrian director, Cole Bros. 1929. 1929 bought Campbell Bros., sold this show and was later with Al G. Barnes as assistant equestrian director, singer and announcer. Then started the Yankee-Patterson Circus with Harold New a silent partner. Later Bob and Ova Thornton became co-owners. "Jimmie Wood and the Yankee Patterson Circus," White Tops, Vol. 15, Nos. 1-2 (Dec-Jan), 1941, p. 11. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
John Woody is the energetic and hustling layer-out of the show. His duties are of a peculiar nature, requiring judgment and discretion, in which characteristics Mr. Woody is never found lacking. He travels one and two days ahead and sees that everything is in readiness on the arrival of the show, and makes any necessary changes in the location of lots, etc., as circumstances may require. Mr. Woody has looked after the interests of the show in the above capacity for two years. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
June Russell Woolrich, a performer for 53 years, rode a bareback act when she was age 12, then did this act with the Rhoda Royal Circus. She was with Sells-Floto and Cole Bros. circuses. She also worked with wild animals and elephants. She resided in Florida in 1975. Circus Report, September 8, 1975, supplement, p. 1. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
George Wormald, assistant boss canvas man, John Robinson Shows, 1900. Billboard, July 21, 1900. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Clint Worral (Clinton C. Worrall), with Frank A. Robbins street fair company, 1900. Billboard, May 1, 1900. Clinton C. Worrall, the well known manager of privileges with circuses, died Dec. 20, 1900 at Kokomo, Ind., aged forty-two years. The deceased had long been a sufferer from locomotor ataxia, and died in an invalid chair while being wheeled along the street. He had managed the privileges for years with the McMahon, Washburn and Hummel shows, his last enterprise having been the Pan-Continental Amusement Co. His wife survives him. New York Clipper, January 19, 1901, p. 1046. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
William H. Worrell. Intelligence has just reached us that this performer died in Philadelphia, at his mother's residence, Jan. 20(?) last, of consumption, at the age of 38 years. He was a native of that city, and had been in the profession twenty years, chiefly as a banjo player. Several years ago he traveled for some seasons as clown with John Robinson's United States Circus and Menagerie. He was a brother of the lady professionally known as Georgie Wright, dancer. His funeral took place Jan. 23 from his mother's residence, Beach street, Philadelphia. He was no relation of Willaim Worrell, the well-known clown. New York Clipper, February 24, 1887, p. 383. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Earl Wright
Photo: Earl Wright, dogs. Photo courtesy of Gregg K. Schrader, Belva V. Schrader collection.
1943: Earl Wright, with his dogs, opened on the Blue Circuit of USO shows in Florida. Billboard, May 8, 1943, p. 37.
1944: Earl Wright and partners, four fox terriers, booked for the Shrine Circus, Minneapolis, will play for the Gus Sun office from May 30 to November 15. Billboard, March 11, 1944, p. 43.
1946: North Alabama State Fair, September 16-21, Hanneford family, riding . . . Earl Wright's Wonder Dogs . . . Billboard, August 17, 1946, p. 81.
1947: E. K. Fernandez Circus, Hawaii, Earl Wright, dogs. Billboard, December 20, 1947, p. 47.
1948: E. R. Braly Circus, Earl Wright's wonder dogs. Billboard, September 25, 1948, p. 49.
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Edwin Wright, wagon driver, resides Bearville, Wisconsin, Ringling Bros., 1909. Lowell (MA) Sun, June 11, 1909. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Ruth Ann Wright, "Rosie," was an aerialist and performed trained dogs and other animals. Joined Cole & Walters Circus in 1950 with her husband Joe and son Allen Joe, with their trapeze act. Ruth appeared with Gil Gray, Kelly-Miller, Carson & Barnes and King circuses. Born in 1926, died July 22, 1985 at Hugo, Oklahoma. Circus Report, August 19, 1985, p. 8. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Edward Wulff, 1904: Attractions, Circus of Edward Wulff, at Brussels, 100 performing and plunging horses.(1) 1907: Hippodrome, New York City, "Edward Wulff and his trained horses will be the star feature added this week to the programme of circus acts at the Hippodrome. Though Mr. Wulff has been prominent among European circus men for the past twenty-six years, this is his first visit to America . . ."(2) 1908, Barnum & Bailey, Herr Wulff brought a dog from Germany, the dog works in conjunction with a pony and a donkey.(3) 1908, Hippodrome, New York City, ". . . Edward Wulff introduced for the first time in America his trained stallion, 'Pacha.' . . . Madame Maude Wulff, with her dancing stallion, 'Furious.'(4) Edward, performing stallions, Ringling Bros., 1909-1910.(5) Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
1. New York Times, September 25, 1904.
2. New York Times, December 29, 1907.
3. San Antionio (TX) Gazette, October 8, 1908.
4. Salt Lake (UT) Tribune, February 23, 1908; New York Times, January 26, 1908.
5. Centralia (WA) News Examiner, August 11, 1909; Centralia (Washington) News-Examiner, August 11, 1910.
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Frank Yaconelli, of the Buffalo Bill and the 101 Ranch of 1916, has enlisted in the Aviation Corps. He was a concert player. Billboard, March 30, 1918, p. 31. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Jimmie Yamamoto and Houma Yamamoto, perch, wire, barrel acts, Hagenbeck-Wallace 1924. White Tops, Vol. 16, Nos. 3-4 (Feb-Mar), 1943, p. 7. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Yeddo. Royal Yeddo Japanese Troupe, Howe's Great London, 1911. Daily Independent (Monessen, PA) April 26, 1911; Chareroi (PA) Mail, April 24 & 26, 1911. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Edward C. York. "Yorkey," an old time circus man, who was killed in the terrible railroad accident in which the Wallace Show suffered so severely [1903], was born at Glen, Ind., Aug. 6, 1864, and entered the profession at the age of seventeen years. He had traveled with the Barnum & Bailey, Sells Bros. and Barrett, Maberry, Pullman & Hamilton, Lock & Long, Chas. Lee London, Scribner & Smith, W. B. Reynolds, Bob Hunting, J. H. La Pearl, and John H. Sparks Shows, and the last two seasons he had been connected with the Wallace circus. The remains were shipped to his home, Terre Haute, and from thre to Glen, Ind. He was a member of K. P. Lodge, also U. M. W. U., and was buried under the auspices of these lodges. New York Clipper, August 22, 1903. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Estelle Young, professionally known as Mlle. Estelle, the mind-reader and second-sightseer, in her clever act of telling people their own affairs better than they know them themselves, adds a curiously interesting performance to the repertoire of museum features. She is, moreover, a very pleasing and genial little lady and possesses the happy faculty of winning her way into the good graces of the audiences as if by magic. The performance receives an additional charm at her hands by the introduction of a flock of performing birds, whose novel feats and skillfully executed manoeuvres, combined with their great number, are always a drawing card. Mrs. Young possesses very many pleasing personal qualities, which have made her a host of warm and sincere friends among the ladies of the Ringling Bros. show. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Merritt F. Young the treasurer of Barnum & Bailey’s Show. He was born at Sandusky, O., July 31, 1850. His father was a railroad man, and it was quite natural that the son should follow in the footsteps of the parent. This he did by becoming an express messenger on the Cincinnati, Sandusky and Cleveland Railroad, being at the time the youngest express messenger in the service. After the death of his father, Merritt moved to Cincinnati, giving up his position as messenger for a clerkship in the express office in that city. There, after faithful and long service in that position, he was engaged as chief clerk in the Gibson House, where he remained five years, his popularity and large acquaintance making him very valuable to the proprietors. In the Summer of 1876 he joined, at Avoca, Ia., the Cooper, Bailey & Co. Circus, then en route for the Pacific. He was made assistant treasurer and ticket seller. The show went to Australia from ‘Frisco, under the name of Cooper & Bailey, those two gentlemen buying out the interest of the other partner. Mr. Young was made treasurer, and toured Australia and South America with them for three years. He returned to the United States with the show, and when Cooper & Bailey bought out the London Show, continued as treasurer for the new organization up to the time of the Barnum & London Shows, again holding the position of treasurer. When the Barnum & Bailey show was organized, in 1888, Mr. Young was made treasurer, which position he now holds. Mr. Young is unmarried, and is one of the most popular and capable men connected with the big concern. His position is highly responsible, and his service with Mr. Bailey covers a period of thirteen years, this long term speaking volumes for his ability and integrity. He has the reputation of being one of the most rapid, correct and courteous ticket sellers in the business. Strictly temperate in his habits, and with a refined urbanity and modesty of manner, he is much thought of by his employers, his associates and the public, with whom he comes in such frequent contact. [Died 1897] New York Clipper, April 27, 1889.
A touching and beautiful ceremony was observed at Oakland Cemetery, Sandusky, O., on the afternoon of June 8, at the conclusion of the afternoon performance of the John Robinson Show. John G. Robinson and sixty-odd members of his show, prominent among whom were E. C. Cullen, Dan Dale, Robert Stickney, Mart Schuler, F. B. Wilson, William Dutton and wife and Charles Constantine, the last two named gentlemen being Elks of No. 1 Lodge, New York City, and many others, including Prof. Rogers' Band of thirty pieces, took street cars from the show grounds and went to the cemetery to pay a loving tribute to one of the whitest men that ever lived - Merritt F. Young, for years treasurer of the Barnum & Bailey Shows. Everybody in Sandusky knew Meritt . . . 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 June, 1897, fell like a pall wherever it was receives. As the years go by, the memory of his good deeds, as well as his kind and genial nature, and a heart that was bigger than all creation, seems to take a firmer hold upon his old comrades. For this reason no circus company of any prominence that has visited Sandusky, O., 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. On the arrival of the Robinson party at the grave, a few effective remarks pertinent to the occasion were made by Ed. C. Cullen; the band played a funeral dirge, and the boys placed a magnificent floral piece in the shape of "The Gates Ajar," marked with the words, "Gone, But Not Forgotten." As the mournaful starins of "Auld Lang Syne" were borne away on the breeze, there was many a tear-dimmed eye in the assemblage. "Requiscat in Pace." Billboard, June 16, 1900, p. 6. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Prof. William Young. As general director of the interior and exhibitional department of the museum, Prof. Young’s abilities and acquirements pronounce him a most clever and successful entertainer. His great versatility as an orator and lecturer enables him to invest the exhibitions of the side show with a rare degree of interest, and his descriptive lectures and entertaining talks on the various curiosities never fail to receive the lively and appreciative interest of his hearers. It is not only as a lecturer, however, that Mr. Young entertains the thousands who visit the big museum daily, but he is as well a very clever magician and illusionist, and his funny rendition of Mr. Punch and Mrs. Judy elicits no end of vociferous applause and happy laughter from the juvenile portion of the audience. This is his first season with the Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest show, his past experience covering a wide field with other tented organizations. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
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Edmundo Zacchini created the first human cannonball act, developing the act in Cairo in 1922. He came to the United States in 1930 with his brother, eventually the 27 member family followed. Died October 3, 1981 at Tampa, Florida, age 87. Circus Report, November 2, 1981, p. 22. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
George Zammert lives Cincinnati, with Ringling Bros., clown, for past 8 years. Now an understander of Da Coma Family, acrobats. With Shipp's Indoor Circus, 1903-1904. Cedar Rapids (IA) Sunday Republican, February 1, 1903; Cedar Rapids (IA) Evening Gazette, January, 29, 1904. Also see Bandwagon, Vol. 49, No. 6 (Nov-Dec), 2005, p. 76; Bandwagon, Vol. 50, No. 5 (Sep-Oct), 2006, p. 33.
"Clown's Life Is a Hard One. . . . 'There are no roses in the bed of the clown' said George Zammert, one of the funny men of the Ringling circus, to a Chicago Inter Ocean man. 'When I first went into the business I was a handsome young fellow, straight as an arrow, and in splendid physical condition. But I've been knocked around so much with stuffed clubs and slap-sticks that I'm well nigh on the verge of curvature of the spine. I broke into circus life by false pretenses. I wanted to become a performer, so I told the manager of a little, one-ring show that I was an all-around high-wire artist.' 'Can you do a leap from the top of the tent?' he asked. 'I was so anxious to join that I told him I could, but I had no idea he was going to put me at the business on the jump.' 'You're just the man we're looking for,' says he. 'Can you go to work to-night?' 'I had gone too far to back out, so I decided to tackle it if I broke my neck. To put it briefly, that night at about nine o'clock I stood on a swing in the very top of the tent. There was a net down somewhere beneath me. I couldn't see it, but it was there, and I was hired to jump into it when the band stopped and the drums began to roll. I had already drawn part of my salary in advance and I made up my mind to earn it. The band stopped and I let loose. With a might swish I darted downward. I closed my eyes and hoped the proprietor would at least have the decency enough to buy me a shroud. It seemed that I was on the road long enough to make the return trip. I thought of Longfellow's Psalm of Life and the glorious footprints I would leave in the sand if I missed the net, and I was trying to make peace with the world when I struck something. I thought it was an elephant, but when I bounded 20 feet into the air I knew I had been fortunate enough to fall in the net,a nd I mumbled a few words of humble thanks on the way down. I hung down in that net like the ingredients in a pudding bag, too frightened to move, till the property man gathered me up and stood me on my feet. Then I managed to make a bow, and the audience cheered. The manager told me I had made the best leap he had ever seen and promised to raise my salary. I told him to just let the salary alone and give me a week off to reat my nerves. Then I explained to him that it was the first leap I had ever made, and my nerve made such a hit with him that he wouldn't fire me. So I joined his band of clowns. I've cut out the leaps; they're not for me. Give me a slap-stick and a stick of red paint and I'm at home.' " Richfield Springs Mercury (Richfield Springs, NY), June 20, 1901.
Possible: George's mother, a widow, may have married a William Colclough. She is said to have had eleven children, one of whom was a famous clown with Barnum & Bailey. A George Zammert died March 18, 1923, Hamilton County, Ohio. Division of Vital Statistics. Death Certificates and index, December 20, 1908-December 31, 1953. State Archives Series 3094. Ohio Historical Society, Ohio. 1880 census, Cincinnati, Ohio: William and Sarah Colclough. Sarah, age 40, born England. Children (of Sarah): William Zammert, age 21, born Ohio; Arnold Zammert, age 16, born Ohio; Anna Zammert, age 13, born Ohio; George Zammert, age 8, born Ohio. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Millie Zano is a recent addition to the roster of the Ringling arenic talent. She was a member of the Clymer Family Concert Company, but since her marriage to Sig. Zano has essayed successfully the role of an aerialist. Her pleasing dancing in the Olio of the Ringling Bros. after-show displays terpsichorean abilities of great excellence and show her an artist of considerable versatility. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Signor Zano is the artistic wire performer, and in the introduction of his famous drunken character on the high wire has produced an originality that never fails to win round after round of vociferous applause. Mr. Zano also is master of the art of horse-breaking, and in the latter capacity displays the remarkable training of the Ringling Bros.’ great school of Broncho horses. He has been with the show two different seasons, 1889 and 1893, and is a performer of great experience and versatility. Offical Route Book of Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Railroad Shows, Season of 1893, Buffalo, NY: Courier Co., 1893. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Robert Zanotti, Vice President, general traffic manager for Circus Vargas, circa 1972 - 1980. Died March 28, 1980, age 49. Circus Report, August 11, 1980, p. 19. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Zapatta, see Marcos Barrigan.
Chris Zeitz, elephant trainer, superintendent of animals, Sells-Floto, 1906, 1908-1909; in charge of menagerie, John Robinson's Ten Shows, 1916; menagerie superintendent, John Robinson, 1919-1920. Advocate (Victoria, TX), September 29, 1906; Anaconda (MT) Standard, May 31, 1908; "Circus Roster", Billboard, March 20, 1909; San Antonio (TX) Light, April 4, 1916; Clearfield (PA) Progress, May 15, 1919; Charleroi (PA) Mail, May 5, 1920. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Le Clair Zelleno
Zelleno, The Mystic
The above is a good likeness of L. C. Zelleno, well known among vaudeville and circus people as Zelleno, the Mystic. Mr. Zelleno has delighted thousand of people in this country and in the Hawaiian Islands with his high class prestidigitation acts. At present he is en route with the John Robinson Shows, doing magic and clowning. Mr. Zelleno is literary, and finds time between performances to write for the Billboard and other papers. In 1903 he published the route book for the Pan-American Shows, upon which he received some very high compliments. Mr. Zelleno is a member of the Society of American Magicians and of the Honolulu aerie of Eagles. From a clipping pasted into the 1903 Pan-American Shows Route Book, undated, no source. Information should be checked with additional sources
We Called Him Friend
A friend has gone — a real friend to every trouper.
In the passing of L. C. Zelleno, whose death occurred in Kansas City last July, the entire profession lost a true friend. He was personally acquainted with more professional people than probably any other man of his time. His thousands of friends were numbered among the folks in every branch of the profession he loved so well: dramatic and repertoire companies, circuses, carnivals, vaudeville and medicine shows. He seemed to know them all and loved them.
Born in San Francisco in 1877, he entered the profession at an early age, for he was a born “trouper.” Reaching manhood, he became a magician of note and was the first American to take a vaudeville troupe to the Hawaiian islands and the Orient. Returning to this country after a successful tour of several years, he came east playing vaudeville engagements as a magician. Following this he became one of the best known business managers and advance agents in the midwest and some twenty years ago, in partnership with Geo. H. Bubb, took over the Opera House Reporter, which he successfully conducted until World War conditions caused its suspension.
Soon afterward he became associated with the Gordon-Howard Company as sales manager, which position he so ably filled for fifteen years preceding his death. He was forever loyal to his firm and was one of the most untiring and conscientious workers that it has been our privilege to know. He took much pleasure in editing the Gordon-Howard News and our readers will agree that he at all times made the little sheet of greatest interest to the folks.
L. C. Zelleno possessed one trait which perhaps accounts for his great number of lasting friendships: He never spoke ill of anyone. His untimely passing was due to a heart attack at his hotel in Kansas City during the intense heat of last July. He was fifty-seven years of age, and is survived by his wife and a brother living in San Francisco. Burial was made in Columbus, Ohio, where Mrs. Zelleno now resides. [Article probably published circa 1934.] From a clipping pasted into the 1903 Pan-American Shows Route Book, undated, no source. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Notes: L. C. Zelleno compiled the 1903 Pan-American Circus 1903 Route Book. Zelleno was with the Great Lugar Shows in 1907 and had earlier been with Howes Great London, Lemon Bros. and John Robinson Circuses. “The Great Lugar Shows,” By Harry M. Simpson, Bandwagon, Vol. 2, No. 1 (Jan-Feb), 1958, pp. 5-6. According to the Iowa State census of 1915, Le Clair Zelleno, was age 37, living in Estherville, Emmet County, Iowa. He listed his occupation as a journalist, earning $1,200 total. He was born in California and had an eighth grade education. His parents were from Ireland.
George Zeno, of the Zeno, Jordan and Zeno troupe of gymnasts, whose name in private life was George Walsh, died on April 29 [1906], form interic fever, at Kierksdorf, South Africa. He was a native of Saginaw, Mich., and was twenty years of age. Ever since he was twelve years of age he had been in the show business with W. H. Zeno. His mother, a sister and a brother survive him. New York Clipper, June 16, 1906, p. 466. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Adgie Zerado, circus performer, died at the Tours Infirmary, New Orleans, January 27, from cerebral meningitis. She was stricken early in January, while touring Cuba with the Pubillones Circus. Her husband of six months, Karyle Zerado, the female impersonators, now touring vaudeville, survives, along with one sister, Belle LaRose, of New York City. In private life the Zerados were Mr. and Mrs. Wm. C. Gibson, said to be from Clinton, Ia. Billboard, February 16, 1918, p. 66. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Johnny Zoppe, Sr. came to the United States in 1936 and joined the Cole Bros. Circus with his family of bareback riders, the Zoppe Troupe. With his wife Sara, he created an unsupported ladder act, featuring Fox Terrier dogs balancing on the ladder with him. He created his Rhesus Monkey Revue in 1956 and continued these two acts until he retired in 1982. Died July 15, 1987 at Rochester, Indiana, age 76. Circus Report, August 10, 1987, p. 19. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Secondo Zoppe. "Funeral services will be held at 9 a.m. Wednesday in the St. Joseph Catholic church here for Secondo Zoppe, 44, Route 3, well-known Rochester circus man who died of a heart attack in Gainesville, Tex., Sunday. Father Edward Holland, of Kewanna, will officiate and burial will be in the I.O.O.F. cemetery here. The body arrived over the Erie Railroad Monday night and was taken to the Zimmerman Brothers funeral home. Born Sept. 9, 1906 in Terchina, Italy, he married Dianna Yagialski in Czechoslovakia in 1930. He and his family came to Rochester in 1936 from Spain to join the Cole Brothers circus. He was associated with the Zoppe-Zavatta riding act. Feb. 11 he was planning to join the Harold Morton circus at Memphis, Tenn. He had been with all the big-name circuses in this country and in foreign countries. Surviving are the wife; five children, Orasio, Germanna, Enrico, Yolanda, Gilda, all at home; four brothers, Ralph, Johnny, Francisco, Oglie, all residing north of Rochester; one sister, Aurelia Hall, Rochester; several nieces and nephews. A performance by other members of the family which was to have been held in Akron Tuesday evening at an indoor circus has been cancelled. News-Sentinel (Fulton County, IN), January 16, 1951. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Lucia Zora, "Lucia Zora, the Lady With a Herd of Elephants on Her Hands" (photo online), article on Sells-Floto, published in Eugene Register-Guard. For more than a decade, Lucia Zora performed her famed wild animal act. Also see entry for Fred Alispaw. Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
Paul Zora, Norris & Rowe, 1905. Daily Nevada State Journal (Reno, NV), April 14, 1905. Information should be checked with additional sources Can you add information? Email your documented information for this/these person(s).
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last modified March 2016.