Circus Historical Society
Circuses - Brief Bits
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A - B C - E F - H I - L M - N O - R S - T U - Z
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Information on these circuses was taken from the New York Clipper, Billboard, and newspapers. Some of the shows may not be circuses. Note that not only do the Clipper, Billboard and newspapers have typographical errors, the transcription will also have typos. All information should be checked with additional sources.
Sadler's Great English - 1875
Sadler's Great English Circus. Manager, A. W. Davis; assistant manager, John Stowe; chief billposter, C. M. Chipman; leader of band, Prof. F. Smith; equestrian director, Harry Codona; master of canvas, James McVicker; master of horse, John Dougherty. Clowns, Will H. Stowe and Signor Capelo. Riders, Senorita Codona, Wm. Miles Harry Codona, Joseph Fetaus. Gymnasts, De Bar Brothers. Acrobats, leapers and tumblers, J. McCormick, Master Paul, Geo. Marshall. Signor Cappolo, contortionist. Prof. Cook's troupe of trained dogs, riding monkey Mungo. Tents used, one 110 foot round top. Concert run by company. Winter quarters, Detroit, Mich. First exhibition given near Detroit. New York Clipper, April 17, 1875, supplement, n.p.n.
Sadler's Circus collapsed at Muskegon, Mich., recently. New York Clipper, July 24, 1875, p. 135.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Harley Sadler's - 1935-36 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1935-36
1935:
Amarillo, Tex., Aug. 19. Harley Sadler, veteran Texas tent showman, announced today that he had purchased the Bailey Brothers' circus of Tulsa, Okla. The show, to be known as the Harley Sadler three-ringer circus, will open at Tulsa, Aug. 29, and will start a swing through Texas 10 days later. Miami News-Record (Miami, OK), August 19, 1935, p. 2.
Harley Sadler, who came up from the ranks of a stock company player to that of star and owner of a popular repertoire show, has expanded his efforts in the entertainment field. Harley bought a three ring circus Monday. He announced acquisition of the Bailey Brothers circus Monday at Amarillo and said that it would open under his management August 29 in Tulsa. Following the opening it will drop back to Texas for a 10 day swing. Always a showman, Harley immediately announced a mile long parade as a feature of his motorized circus. Big Spring Daily Herald (Big Spring, TX), August 20, 1935, p. 1.
1936: Harley Sadler's London Hippodrome Circus, buffeted by slim patrongage, inclement weather and too hasty billing, abruptly ceased operations. . . . Lubbock Morning Avalanche (Lubbock, TX), December 2, 1936, p. 1.
• An article on the 1936 Harley Sadler show is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1993, Vol. 37, No. 2, pp. 19-29.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Circus Sahara - 1993, 1997
1993: Dorian Blake exhibited his Circus Sahara at fairs in 1993. He also used the title Wild West World of Illusion at a Maryland fair in the Fall. Bandwagon, January-February, 1994, p. 15.
1997: The 1997 show played dates in May and June in Louisiana, and probably elsewhere. Owner Dorian Blacke and his magic act was part of the performance. Bandwagon, March-April, 1998, p. 20.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1993-94, 2000.
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Sailor Circus
• Show is listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1950-.
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Salvini's - 1888
George W. Orrin writes from Mexico . . . the Salvini Dog, Monkey, Goat and Pony Parlor Circus is still under their management, and is now touring the interior districts of Mexico. New York Clipper, August 18, 1888, p. 358.
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Sample's - 1892
Wanted for Sample's Great 25cts. One Ring Circus. Circus people doing two or more acts. Female trapeze performer, people that double in brass, contortionist, band leader, bar performer, ??? sword act, leaping off spring board, etc. Open at Humboldt, Ia., April ??. A wagon show. L. L. Sample. New York Clipper, February 6, 1892, p. 802.
F.(?) W. Hall, formerly with Wintermute Bros.' New Colossal Shows, has signed as general contracting agent with Sample's Twenty-five Cent One Ring Circus. New York Clipper, February 20, 1892, p. 827.
Wanted, for Sample's Great 25cts One Ring Circus, a team to do double bar act, ladder act and to go in leaps or tumbling. Also a first B-flat cornet. A neat, clean, new wagon show. Address L. L. Sample, manager, Humboldt, Ia. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 30.
L. L. Sample's Twenty-Five Cent One Ring Circus opened their season at Humboldt, Ia., April ?. The roster: Mrs. R. J. Sample, proprietoress; L. L. Sample, manager; Frank Hall, advance agent; Frank Cushing, equestrian director; the Cushings(?) . . . M. J. Moran, King Ziemer(?) . . . a one hundred foot round top. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 178.
On the road, circuses: Sample's, Arlington SD May 28 . . . New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 183.
On the road, circuses: Sample's, Pipestone Minn June 4. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
• 1908: Humboldt, May 11. - When L. L. Sample of Woodbine, Iowa, got religion a half a dozen years ago, he promised himself and God that he would pay his old debts, amounting to many hundreds of dollars. Yesterday Humboldt witnessed the unique spectacle of a man keeping such a promise, and hunting up creditors who had forgotten that they held claims against him. Mr. Sample made his headquarters at one of the local banks, and he was there with the cash for every claim that was presented and properly vouched for, no matter how old it was or whether it was any longer legal or not. L. L. Sample is one of the interesting characters of western Iowa. He is known now far and wide as a crack fire insurance writer, but once uopn a time he and his brother, T. J. Sample, were proprietors of a circus - "Sample's Great 25 cent One Ring Circus" they called it. They put every cent that they themselves had and all that they could borrow into the enterprise, but they knew much more about a lot of other things than they did about the circus business, and they soon went "broke." They didn't save a thing from the wreck. On the contrary they came out of it deeply in debt. L. L. Sample turned his attention to other things, and ten years ago was the star circulation solicitor for a Council Bluffs daily newspaper. He was a whirlwind, full of energy and perseverance, and he set a pace in getting business that few others could follow. Later he turned his attention to fire insurance, for a Des Moines company, and he almost invariably carries off the honors from month to month for new business secured. This man got religion just six years ago. He got it thoroughly and he entered upon the business of his Christian life with as much vigor as he gave to his fire insurance business - his "other" fire insurance business, he jocularly calls it. He hadn't thought much about his old debts, but now they got on his mind and he dreamed a dream, he says, in which God called on him to square up those old accounts, so he promised if God would help him. He worked hard, he prospered, be made fortunate investments, and Saturday he came to Humboldt with all the cash necessary to put himself right with the world. Just as unique as L. L. Sample himself was the notice he published in the Humboldt newspapers, giving notice to his creditors to dig up their musty old records for their claim against him. It was as follows:
Woodbine, la., April 25, 1908. - To My Many Creditors: Having been converted in a dream on the 9th day of May 1902, the Lord called on me to pay all outstanding notes and book accounts against R. J. and L. L. Sample, proprietor and manager of Sample's Great Twenty-five Cent One Ring Circus, at their face value when He would provide the funds, providing they are still held by the parties which gave up value for such notes or such book accounts, and I have set Saturday. May 9, 1908, just six years from the day of my conversion, at which time all my old creditors and friends may find me at the Humboldt State bank from 9 a. m., where I will be glad to receive and inspect all notes and book accounts held against the above names, and if found satisfactory will pay them face value. I promised the Lord about three years ago I would do this as soon as He gave me the money wherewith to pay the same, and as the Lord has now fulfilled his part of the agreement, I am ready to fill mine: Yours cordially. L. L. Sample. Saturday more than one Humboldt business man of olden days felt that he literally found something, for Sample's Great Twenty-five Cent One Ring Circus, and its debts had long been forgotten. Waterloo (IA) Semi Weekly Courier, May 12, 1908.
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Samwells & Co. - 1873-74
1873: George Ryland, M'me Louise (Mrs. Ryland), . . . Professor Samwells and his trained dogs and monkeys; Le Roy, the circus performer, and Mrs. Samwells and children, sailed from San Francisco, Cal., for Los Angeles, Jan. __. From there they will proceed to Mexico and the Central American states. This company will travel under the title of Prof. Samwells & Co.'s Combination Circus and Animal Show. New York Clipper, February 1, 1873, p. 351.
1874: Samwell & Co.'s Circus and troupe of performing dogs commenced a brief season at Port-au-Prince, Hayti, W. I., Sunday, April 5. New York Clipper, May 2, 1874, p. 39.
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Sands, Lent & Co. - 1848
The circus tents of Sands, Lent & Co., was pretty much demolished by a mob in Salem, Mass., on Wednesday last. It is said that there were some 1500 more tickets sold than the pavilion could conveniently accommodate, and from this originated the disturbance. During the fracas several were badly hurt. Newport Daily News (RI), May 15, 1848, n.p.n.
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Sands, Nathan & Co. - 1855-59 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1855-1861
• According to Stuart Thayer's Annals of the American Circus, 1793-1860, owners were Richard Sands, John Jay Nathans. In 1856 the title was "Sands, Nathans & Co.'s American Circus." In 1857 there were two units, "Sands, Nathans & Co.'s American Circus," and "Sands, Nathans & Co.'s French and American Circus." 1858, "Sands, Nathans & Co.'s American Circus" and 1859, "Sands, Nathans & Co.'s Gigantic Combination Circus." The circus was sold to Gerard C. Quick, Avery Smith and Guiseppe Chiarini, October, 1859 and became Chiarini's Circus, Havana, Cuba, in December.
1855:
[Advertisement] Sands, Nathan & Co.'s American Circus, from Castle Garden and Metropolitan Theater, N. Y. The largest and most extensive company traveling in the U. States! Will perform in Milwauee on Main Street, opposite the Milwaukee House, on Thursday and Friday, June 28th and 29th, 1855. For two days only. The company will enter town in grand procession on the morning of the exhibition preceded by a magnificent dragon chariot, drawn by four trained elephants, accompanied by a military band. The team of twenty lilliputian pones driven before the miniature carriage, grand cortege of performing horses, &c., &c.
The names of the most prominent equestrians belonging to this establishment are a sure guaranty of their superiority above all other companies. Principal equestrians R. Sands and Masters Jese and George, Mr. J. Nathans and Master Philo. Sam Lathrop, the Kentucky clown, Tom Linton the English performing clown, James DeMott the youthful equestrian, Mr. Fisher, the great hurdle rider and peerche performer, George Sargent, in his changeable scenic act, H. Day and Davis, the great trapeze performers, H. Nagle, the celebrated batout jumper, and Messrs. Bassett, Richards, Shay, Nixon, Spencer and others. Miss. A. Leaman, the unrivaled female equestrian.
There are also connected with the company four performing elephants, Pizarro, Timour, Selim & Saib, from Astley's Amphitheatre, London. They have performed in most of the principal theatres of Europe and their performances strike the beholder with wonder and astonishment. The whole stud of lilliputian ponies, imported from England and by Mr. Sands, will appear in all of their wonderful feats.
The entertainment will be novel, varies and brilliant, and consisting of brilliant acts of horsemanship, acrobatic & gymnastic feats, vaulting, tumbling, feats of equilibrium. Comic scenes and laughable after pieces. The whole to be by the comicalities of two great clowns, Sam Lathrop & Tom Linton.
R. Sands, manager; J. J. Nathan, equestrian director; J. F. Green, treasurer. Admission, box 50 cts. Pit, 25 cts to the whole performances, and no half price. Doors open at 3 adn 7 o'clock p.m. Performances commence half an hour afterward. Waukegan, Jun. 25; Kenosha, Jun. 26; Racine, Jun. 27. Milwaukee Daily Sentinel (WI), June 14, 1855, n.p.n.
The Sentinel of Monday reports that the circus did not arrive there according to promise - that the concern "busted" at Kenosha, in consequence of some trouble. This being the case, it will not of course come to Waukesha. Waukesha County Democrat (Waukesha, WI), June 27, 1855, n.p.n. [possibly Sands & Nathans]
1856:
Mr. William Cooke's two wonderful performing elephants have been purchased by Mr. Sands, the celebrated equestrian manager, at an immense cost, for the circus of Sands and Nathans, and are now on their way to New York in the packet ship Northumberland. The astonishing performance of these animals defies all description, and has been the theme of universal wonder and admiration wherever they have appeared. They stand on their heads and on their hind legs, sit up and lie down at the word of command, march, and perform a variety of feats too numerous to be described here; ut the most astonishing feat of all is the ascension of one up a narrow inclined plane to a height of between 20 and 30 feet, at the top of which is a small circular pedestal. The huge animal having accomplished the perilous ascent stands on his head and hind feet alternately, which to be believed must be seen, clearly proving that, although so clumsy in appearance, they posses more than an ordinary share of agility. Milwaukee Daily News, March 18, 1856, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] Sands, Nathans & Co.'s Amercian Circus and combined exhibitions! Consisting of a full and efficient equestrian troupe, and a carefully selected school of acrobats and gymnasts, a legitimate dramatic corps, and complete collection of trained animals, including the wonderful performing elephant, Victoria and Albert. The only beasts of this species which have been taught to march with military precision, ascend inclined planes, formed of planks eight inches in thickness, mount pedestals and columns; balance themselves on their hind legs, and perform the incredible feat of standing on their heads! The whole demonstrating a nicety of training and agility that hitherto have been considered utter impossibilities. These two mountains of flesh first appeared in Astley's Amphitheatre, London, before the crown nobility and genty, producing a furore unparalled; subsequently at the Cirque Napoleon, Paris, where for 150 consecutive nights (a period of five months), they drew crowds of people from all parts of France. During this engagement they were purchased by Mr. Richard Sands, at an immense cost, expressly for the American Circus, and are now presented to the American people with confidence that no such intrinsic attraction (as this one feature alone comprises) can be offered, even if all the establishments - equestrian, zoological or dramatic - now organized were joined together.
Another distinguished feature in this exhibition is the Antipodean Exercises! A man walking (like a fly) with his feet upon a smooth marble slab, and his head downwards. This performance originated with Mr. Richard Sands, and was successfully given by him, first in America, then at the Theatre Perie St. Martin, at Drury Lane, London, and afterwards at all the principal cities throughout the entire continent, attracting the attention of the most prominent ___ of the world of science, and eliciting the patronage and approbation of the press and the people of every clime. Dazzled by the brilliancy of Mr. Sand's achievements, a host of vain pretenders attempted to perform this miracle, and with an effrontery unprecedented, announced their ability to do so; but after a few unsuccessful exhibition, significant only for their awkwardness and total lack of scientific execution, they abandoned the field to him whose genius alone renders him master of. To see it done gracefully and dextrously, it must be witnessed in this exhibition.
The efficiency and strength of the dramatic company enables us to offer the magnificent dramatic spectacle of Mazeppa, or, the Wild Horse of Tartary. Dramatized and adapted from Byron's poem of that title. For ___, startling incidents and tableaux, we must refer you to the small bills. One of the most laughable and eccentric scenes ever introduced in a circle, is the combat between the two clowns and the trained zebra, and low comedy donkey!
Arenic exercises will be grand, novel and well varied by the efforts, individually and combined, of the following artists or reputation: Mr. R. Sands and his two sons; Mr. J. J. Nathans and Mast. Philo; Mr. W. Armstrong, Mr. Geo. Sergeant, Signor Bliss, Master Ferdinand, C. Bassit, H. Nagle, Adams, Proctor, and others, comprising the acrobatic, gymnastic and auxiliary forces. The management is also happy to announce the appearance of Mad'lle Cameron, the French equestrienne, who was the bright star of the Cirque Napoleon, Paris, on account of her youth, beauty and talents. She will give her exercises de fscination in our arena, on her nude Pegasus or winged steed.
Five clowns, witty, agile, grotesque, musical and mirthful. Mr. Sam Welser, Ben Huntington, Toney Bliss, Bob Connor, and Fred Denzor, have been engaged and will participate in all the performances. Equestrian director, J. J. Nathans. Manager, R. Sands. Master of the circus, C. Bassit. The dramatic troupe has been augumented by an engagement having been affected with Mr. and Mrs. Charles Rae, late of the Metropolitan Theatre, now Laura Keene's Varieties, New York. These favorite artists now render this department much superior to any in the country. Notice - every performance will be as represented in the bills.
The entree into town will be observed by a grand oriental parade arranged in the following order: 1st, the band chariot containing the Empire City Brass Band, Geo. Seely, leader, and the String Orchestra, led by Prof. Volante, drawn by a herd of six elephants, decorated with all the splendors of Eastern taste and magnificence. Then follows the twenty lilliputian ponies drawing the Fairy Car. In succession comes the peformers, mounted on caparison steeds; the whol terminating with the cortege of vans, carriages, wagons and other appartenances necessary to this colossal concern. This grand exhibition will exhibit at Janesville, Monday, June 9th, for one day only. Admission, boxes 50 cts; children under nine years of age, half price. Pit 25 cts, no half price. Doors open at 2 o'clock in the afternoon, and 7 o'clock in the evening. Performance will commence in half an hour after opening. The American Circus will also exhibit at the following places: Beloit, June 10; Belvidere, do. 11; Rockford, do. 12; Freeport, do. 13. Weekly Democratic Standard (Janesville, WI), May 26, 1856, n.p.n.
• 1857: online at:
Clipper, May 23, Clipper, June 6, Clipper, June 20, Clipper, November 28 (scroll down)
Clipper, August 22, Clipper, September 5 (scroll down)
• The show played Kansas in 1857 with performing elephants, equestrienne, human fly act, trapeze and perch acts, etc. More information on this show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1987, Vol. 31, No. 3, p. 5.
1858:
[Advertisement] Sands, Nathans & Co.'s American Circus! And Great Elephant Exhibition! The fame of this unexampled establishment has, of course, penetrated to this section of the United States long since, and the managers have the pleasure of bringing the star artists, and star animals bodily before this community that they may be assured that all which has been said of their almost incredible feats is really true.
Six Trained Elephants, among which are the unparalleled performing elephants, Victoria and Albert, are prominent in the entertainments. Among their performances are the following: they ascend an inclined plane 30 feet long and but 9 inches wide, and one of them, at the summit, ten feet from the ground, balances himself on his head! They evince their superior training and sagacity, also, as well as the musical susceptability of their remarkable species, by keeping perfect time with music, when they waltz, dance singly, march, execute feats of gymanstic, posturing and play on the Band Organ! Nothing like these original exploits has ever before been taught to animals ordinarily wild. That animals so ponderous and generally considered clumsy, should enact such deeds hitherto regarded physically impossible to the, may well excite incredulity. But these statements are fact. Mr. Richard Sands, the well known senior proprietor, outbid all competitors at the great sale in Paris, where they were performing. They cost him an enormous sum, the the expensive venture was warranted.
The Calliope! is another great wonder of this show. It is the most powerful and melodious of all musical instruments, cost $6,000, and is capable of playing any musical composition, either operatic or otherwise. It is supplied with steam, by an engine, and an accomplished artist presides at the keys, which are like those of the piano. The voice of this muscial marvel may be distinctly heard for ten or twelve miles. It has created an intense sensation wherever heard, and is the climax of all modern musical inventions. Two gorgeous and capacious chariots contain the [calliope] and steam engine.
Twelve Shetland ponies, of distinguished beauty, and perfect training, accompany this show. Their performances have never been equalled. They were imported by Mr. R. Sands, and has an equal fame in Europe and America. The Circus corps includes the following inimitable artists whose achievements embrace the scenes appended to their names: J. J. Nathans, Samson at Philistin, an unsurpassable scene of two horse rider. Le June Burt, grand act of hurdle horsemanship. M'lle Elodi Loyale, the graceful, beautiful and youthful star, from Paris (the only really French equestrienne who has visited the United States). The Studio of Rachael by the German Acrobats, William, John & Chas. Conrad.
Performing Zebra. The only zebra ever trained or thoroughly tamed. Feats on the perch by Messrs. Donaldson & Benzor. Frolicks, Master Jessie Sands. A scene of dramatic horsemanship, in which he enacts several characters. Master Philo Nathans, summersett rider, and monkey act on two ponies. Horse and globe act, by William Conrad. Sam Lathrop, "The Gentleman Clown," who will give his stump speech, comic songs, law speech, stories of his adventures throughout the United States for the last 25 years, &c., &c.
James Burt, the irresistibly comic people's clown. Tumbling, vaulting, etc., by the entire troupe. A spectacle in which all the famed riders appear, entitled Havelock in India. Love and the Baboon, a comic afterpiece, which will conclude the entertainments. Two distinct exhibitions each day. Otto Horne's N. Y. Brass Band. The best in the country. The procession of elephants, artists, horses, ponies, etc., with the colossal cars of the calliope, engine, band, carriages, wagons, etc., will enter town in the morning. Will exhibit at Hornellsville, on Tuesday, July 13th. Doors open at 2 and 7 o'clock, the performance commences half an hour afterward. Admission only 25 cents. No half price. Angelica, Wednesday, July 14th. Hornellsville Tribune (NY), July 1, 1858, n.p.n.
• 1858: online at:
Clipper, April 10, Clipper, April 17, Clipper, May 15 (scroll down)
Clipper, May 22, Clipper, June 26, Clipper, July 10 (scroll down)
Clipper, July 31, Clipper, August 21, Clipper, August 28 (scroll down)
• 1859: online at:
Clipper, April 2, Clipper, May 14, Clipper, June 11 (scroll down)
Clipper, June 29, Clipper, July 9, Clipper, July 16 (scroll down)
Clipper, August 13, Clipper, August 20, Clipper, August 29 (scroll down)
Clipper, September 10, Clipper, September 17, Clipper, September 24 (scroll down)
Clipper, October 1, Clipper, October 8, Clipper, October 15 (scroll down)
Clipper, October 29 (scroll down)
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
R. Sands - 1851, 1853, 1860-63
1851:
Sands & Co.'s Circus made their entrance into our city yesterday morning, and attracted crowds of spectators. The music car, drawn by elephants, and the fourteen pony team, were objects of special admiration. In the afternoon they performed to a delighted audience of little folks, and in the evening to an equally pleased audience of full-grown ones. The riding struck us as very graceful, and the performances of the celebrated horses Mayfly and Cinderella elicited great applause. Two more exhibition, afternoon and evening, will be given today. The circus is far the best that has been seen in these parts for a long time. Milwaukee Daily Sentinel and Gazette (WI), September 4, 1851, n.p.n.
1853:
[Advertisement] The Great Combined Circus & Menagerie of R. Sands & Co. and G. C. Quick & Co. Will give two splendid exhibitions in Hornellsville, on Tuesday, August 2d, for one day only. Doors open at 2 & 7 o'clock. Performance at 2 1/2 and 7 1/2 p.m. Admission 25 cts, no half price. These celebrated companies comprise the most numerous and brilliant array of talent, novelty, and splendor, ever witnessed in this country. J. J. Nathans, equestrian maanger. T. Brooks, director of the menagerie.
The equestrian troupe of R. Sands & Co. will appear in all their varied, chaste and elegant exhibitions of graceful and elegant horsemanship, forming altogether a grand concentration of equestrian excellence, and a proud array of American skill and genius. The following are the names of the principal performers: Mr. J. J. Nathans, Mrs. J. J. Nathans, Mr. W. Rockford, Mr. Bassett, Miss Emma Nathans, Master Pluto, T. Brooks, A. Pastor, Master Frank Pastor, Master Jesse Sands, C. Bacon, J. Lovett, Master George Sands, Master W. Pastor, H. W. Day, B. Huntington. Clowns John Lovett and H. W. Day. Ringmaster B. Huntington.
The great caravan of wild beasts is arranged around the interior, as to enable the spectators to examine the various animals in their dens, either before or during the performance of the circus. In the course of the entertainments, the celebrated lion subduer, Mr. T. Brooks, will enter the wild beasts' den, and give an exhibition of his supreme control over these ferocious creatures.
But one price of admission to the entire double exhibition. The interior of the pavilion is brilliantly lighted in the evening, by means of portable gas chandeliers. Convenient and eligible seats are provided for 3,000 spectators, and a promeade afforded to visitors, around the extensive menagerie, free of charge. Hornellsville Tribune (NY), July 23, 1853, n.p.n.
1860:
• Stuart Thayer's Annals of the American Circus, 1793-1860, lists R. Sands' Gigantic Combination Circus, James Foshay, owner, 1860.
[Advertisement] R. Sands' Gigantic Combination Circus. Comprising the most talented performers, most magnificent stud of trained horses, and the surprising troupe of contortionists and acrobats in the world, forming the most splendid combination of attraction ever offered by any traveling company in the United States. The magnificent establishment will make its entree into town preceded by the Grand Chariot of Apollo drawn by a team of gigantic mules. The band chariot will be followed by the fairy equipage of Cinderella, drawn by a team of twenty Shetland ponies.
Among the more celebrated of the equestrian performers will be found Mme. Virginia Sherwood, Mr. Chas. Sherwood, Master Charley, Mons. Theodore, Mons. Ferdinand, Mademoiselle Ida, the Tournaire Bro's, Don Santiago Gibbonois, the great Spanish contortionist from El Corso Madrid. Wm. H Berdeu & Wm. Hogle, Carlo Conrad, Tony Pastor, the great American clown, satirist ahd humorist. The Benoit Brothers, Ben. Huntington. And a numerous troupe of vaulters, tumblers, acrobats, gymnasts, jugglers, comic singers, &c., &c. Post's New York Cornet Band. Will perform at Janesville on Wednesday, Oct. 3d. Admission - Box 50 cents, Pit 25 cts., children 25 cts. to Boxes, no half price. Doors open at 2 and 7. To commence at 2 1/2 and 7 1/2 p.m. Janesville Daily Gazette (WI), October 1, 1860, p. 1.
No Circus. Owing to the sickness of several of the performers, the circus has been obliged to return home, therefore they will not visit this city tomorrow. [Note: R. Sands above] Janesville Daily Gazette (WI), October 2, 1860, n.p.n.
• 1860: is online at Clipper, June 16, Clipper, August 4, Clipper, August 18, Clipper, August 25 (scroll down)
1861:
[Advertisement] R. Sands Grand Multiceria Combination Circus and Homohippocal Amphitheatre. Comprising the elite of the equestrian profession of acrobatic ahd hippodramatic performers of the world. The most thoroughly and finely trained stud of Arabian horses in this country or Europe. The whole forming a concentration of attractions such as has ever been offered before to the people of America.
Attached to the establishment is an unrivalled troupe of 20 Shetland trick ponies. Among the most celebrated of the galaxy of star riders with the R. Sands Circus boasts, the managers take pleasure in announcing the name of Charley Sherwood, the great protean rider and renowned Pete Jenkins. Madamoselle Ida, the fairy equestrienne, will appear in her wonderful principal acts, called Litiana's Revel, and in her magnificent act entitled The Flight of the Golden Sprite. Mme. Virginia Sherwood, the most beautiful, graceful, dashing and daring equestrienne in the world. Don Santiago Gibbonois, the most wonderful contortionist that ever lived, whole performances set all the laws of the human body in defiance, and strike the world with wonder.
The following talented performers will also appear in a variety of acts of horsemanship, acrobatic feats, &c., &c.: Mr. Nat. Rodgers, Master Charley, B. Huntington, W. H. Berdeau, J. Henderson, R. Nathaniels, W. H. Ashton, A. Williams, Wm. Naylor, C. McClain, W. Smith, and a host of other talented performres. The entertainment will be enlivened by the two great clowns, Bobby Williams and Garry DeMott.
On entering each town a grand spectacular display will take place. The gigantic cavalcade, preceded by the War Chariot of Achilles, drawn by a team of thorough-bred Arabian horses, magnificently caparisoned, and followed by the cortege of Litania, in which the whold troupe of ponies will appear, and a team of Spanish mules.
Charles Sherwood, equestrian director. Benj. Huntington, master de cirque. Post's Cornet Band, lately attached to Garbaldi's Army in Italy, will accompany the entertainment. Will exhibit at Milwaukee on Thursday and Friday, May 9th and 10th, for two days only. Doors open at 2 and 7 p.m.; to commence at 2 1/2 and 7 1/2 p.m. Admission, Box 50 cents, pit 25 cents. No half price. Children 25 cents to boxes. Daily Milwaukee Press and News (WI), May 5, 1861, p. 1.
• 1861: is online at:
Clipper, April 27, Clipper, May 18, Clipper, June 8 (scroll down)
Clipper, June 29, Clipper, July 6, Clipper, August 10 (scroll down)
Clipper, August 17, Clipper, August 31, Clipper, September 7 (scroll down)
• Brief information on R. Sands' show, during the Civil War, is in Slout's Clowns and Cannons.
1862:
[Advertisement] R. Sands Grand Multiserial Combination Circus and Homohippodeal Amphitheatre, will perform at Marshall, on Monday, May 19. Among the many novelties that characterize this establishment will be found the performance of the world-renowned Carlo Family, whose wonderful exploits have challenged the admiration of the world. Among this family are Sig. Felix Carlo, the great trick clown, and Guilliamo Carlo, who will appear in his terrific impalement scene. Mr. Charles Sherwood, the great scenic and histrionic equestrian, and renowned representative of Pete Jenkins.
Madame Virginia Sherwood, the most popular, beautiful and daring equestrienne ever seen. Mr. George Ross, in his classic act, the "Flight of Ariel," and in his unrivalled "Scenes in Sante." Sam Long, the great humorist of the ring, in his choice melange of comicalities. Messrs. Shappe and Whitney, the trapeze and bar performers. W. H. Berdeau, the great American gymnast. Les Freres Comique, and a host of other artists. Admission, Box 50 cents. Pit 25 cents. Door open at 2 and 7 p.m. Performances to commence at 2 1/2 and 7 1/2 p.m. Marshall Stateman (MI), May 14, 1862, n.p.n.
• 1862: is online at:
Clipper, May 3, Clipper, June 28, Clipper, July 5 (scroll down)
Clipper, September 13, Clipper, September 20 (scroll down)
• 1863: online at:
Clipper, January 31, Clipper, April 4, Clipper, May 30 (scroll down)
Clipper, June 6, Clipper, June 13, Clipper, June 20 (scroll down)
Clipper, July 4, Clipper, July 18, Clipper, July 25 (scroll down)
Clipper, August 1, Clipper, August 15, Clipper, September 19 (scroll down)
Clipper, October 3, Clipper, October 10 (scroll down)
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Sands & Astley's Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1895
Grains of sand from Sands & Astley's Circus. After a prosperous season Messrs. Sands & Astley have concluded not to sell their show, nor turn it over to the printers to winter. The spacious winter quarters at Wichita, Kansas, overhauled and fitted with steam heat during the Summer, are now occupied by the shows. The herd of elephants and camels have a specially erected building. The animals are under the care of Col. Dick Trainer. The stock is looked after by Capt. Jenks. One of the latest additions to the menagerie is a baby white elephant, under the charge of Charles McMahon Jr. Mr. Astley will send several European attractions over. In 1896 everything will be changed and new, even in name. New York Clipper, December 21, 1895, p. 665.
• Information on 1895 Joe McMahon's Sands & Astley's show is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1995, Vol. 39, No. 5, pp. 35-37.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
George Sanger's - 1886
George Sanger, with his circus in Yorkshire, Eng., has been having a very bad time, in consequence of the severe weather of the past few weeks. He and his company have had to travel for many days up to their knees in snow along the turnpike roads, and have occasionally had to do battle with drifts some six or eight feet high. At Wakefield 400 carloads of snow had to be removed before there was a possibility of putting up the tent. - London Era. New York Clipper, April 10, 1886, p. 55.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Sanger & Lent - 1893-94, 1896 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1893
1893:
"Senator" Frank B. Hubin, in charge of the sideshow with the Sanger & Lent's Circus, now touring the West, reports big business. Below is the list of sideshow people: Frank B. Hubin, manager and lecturer . . . Prof. Madden, magician, Punch and trained dog, Sanch?; Arcarris and Lester, knife throwers; Mizpha, Gypsey [sic] queen; a band of six pieces, monkeys, birds and two vampires. New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 230.
Salt Lake City, Utah. The receipts of Sanger & Lent's Show were attached May 31(?) by ___ the employes for back salaries. The amount was promptly paid and the attachment dissolved. . . . New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 231.
Frank B. Hubin can be engaged as museum manager or lecturer or booking agent. Address Frank B. Hubin, care of Clipper. New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 244.
On the road, circuses: Sanger & Lent's, Tacoma Wash. July 12. New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 281.
Seattle, Washington. Leon W. Washburn's will be here 11, 12. Sanger & Lents' Circus 13, 14. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
On the road, circuses: Sanger & Lent's, Tacoma Wash. July 12, Seattle 13, 14. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
Portland, Oregon. Sanger & Lent's Circus gave three performances June 30(?), July 1. New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 312.
The members of the advance brigade No. 1 of Sawyer [sic?] & Lent's Shows, tendered a reception to Fred Beekman, agent of the Forepaugh Circus, at Minneapois, Minn., last week. New York Clipper, August 26, 1893, p. 394.
The Hubins, Frank and Mille, will, at the close of the Sanger & Lents Circus, play the eastern museums for the winter. New York Clipper, October 14, 1893, p. 510.
Wanted for season 1894 with Sanger & Lent's International Allied R. R. Shows, Double Circus, Hippodrome and Menagerie, people in all branches. Performers, musicians, features and attractions, side show curiosities, animal and elephant men, train men, drivers, etc. Address J. B.(?) McMahon, Wichita, Kansas. Also advance car managers and 30 bill posters. Address G. Castello, Witchita, Kansas. New York Clipper, December 30, 1893, p. 697.
• Information on the 1893 Sanger & Lent show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 3, pp. 37-38.
1894:
Wanted, with Sanger & Lent's Big Shows, candy butchers that can get money with ___ and candy basket. Chas. L. Bristol, Tiffin(?), Ohio. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 761.
Kansas City, Missouri. L. A. Meddle(?) has signed for the advertising car of Sanger & Lent's Circus. New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 819.
C. A. Clarke, formerly with the advance of the Sells & Rentfrow Shows, has signed with the Sanger & Lent International Allied Shows for the coming season. New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 5.
Call. All people engaged for Sanger & Lent's Shows. Report at Wichita, not later than April 12. The opening date is April 14. Address J. B. McMahon. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 78.
1896:
Oscar Lowande, back and forward principal somersault and four horse rider is with the Sanger & Lent Show. New York Clipper, February 29, 1896, p. 825.
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Sanger's Circus - 1910-13, 1919, 1920 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1911-13, 1919-1922
1910: From The Chronicle, Pottsville, Pennsylvania, June 18, 1910. "The performances of the Sangers Combined Shows yesterday were well attended. The performance includes the Kirby Family aand the Japanese Troupe are good, and the clowns were very amusing. The sleek, blocky, well-groomed horses, 300 in number, drew forth volumes of praise. . . . "
1911:
Prof. J. G. Wright has joined the Great Sanger Indoor Circus. Sanger has five free acts headed by Rowen and Rowen, aerialists; Gordon and Gordon, impalement act; Gaylor and Gaylor, contortionists. Other attractions are the Aztecs from the Hagenbeck-Wallace Show; Downing's Big Illusions, and Mrs. Barnard, palmistry. James E. Ward, of Monmouth, Ill., goes with Sanger Bros. Shows. Billboard, April 8, 1911, p. 24.
The Castello Family are busy in their ring barn at Henderson, N.C., getting ready for the road. Chas. Castello left last week to join the Sanger Show in Brenham, Tex. Billboard, April 8, 1911, p. 24.
[Advertisement] Rockport, June 12. Sangers Great Combined Shows. Mammoth Menagerie of wild animals, 8 funny clowns, Ding, the largest elephant in the world, 5 thrilling dare-devil aerial acts, riding acts and hurdle races, Roman ballet and spectacular hippodrome. Two big uniformed concert bands. Free street parade daily. Rockport Democrat (Rockport, IN), June 9, 1911, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] At Batesville, August 16, Sanger's Combined Shows and big double menagerie. Herd of musical elephants; Ding Dong, highly educated elephant; the Kirby Family, kings of the high wire; the 7 Eddys; Wakahawa Royal Yeddo troupe of Japanese. 500 people, 3 bands, 250 horses, 20 European acts, 25 clowns, Royal Roman hippodrome. Free street parade. Batesville Tribune (Batesville, IN), August 9, 1911, n.p.n.
1912:
Sanger's Greater European Shows - Jerry Mugivan and Bert Bowers, leasees; Chas. Mugivan, mgr.; Ben Thilman, treas.; Chas. Mugivan, auditor; Harry Mann, general agent; Harry Mann, railroad contractor; George B. Beckley, local contractor; Major E. J. Go?ney, contracting press agent; Hosea F. Moyer, advance press agent; Doc Lano, mgr. side show; Ray Orton, equestrian director; Art Bowers, supt. privileges; Jack Zwickey, musical director; Frenchy Healey, supt. canvas; Tom Lee, trainmaster; Sam J. Arnold, boss hostler; Chas. Sharpe, supt. commissary dept.; Frenchy, supt. lights; Frenchy Healey, supt. working crew; E. E. Pettingill, twenty-four hour agent; Walter Distler, supt. elephants; James Riley, boss carpenter; Walter Distler, supt. animals; Hosea F. Moyer, mgr. advertising car No. 1; Harry Allen, legal adjuster; E. Catlett, announcer. Show opened at Mobile, Ala., February 20. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
Sanger's Combined European shows will appear here [Greenville, PA) May 14. From the Fort Myers Daily Press: "Several features of the show are the Williams family acrobats and trapeze performers all of them from father down to the little Miss of but a few summers. The Shumatos, Japanese jugglers and acrobats and the carnival of funny clowns. And among the herd of animals, the big performing elephant that performed tricks almost beyond human imagination, showing excellent training. Evening Record (Greenville, PA), April 19, 1912, p. 2.
Charlie Mugavin, one of the proprietors of the Sanger Shows, and Hoses Moyer, agent of the Sanger Shows, were in Cincinnati recently. [Probably Jerry Mugivan] Billboard, December 21, 1912, p. 38.
1913: Sanger's Greater European Shows - Jerry Mugivan, proprietor; Louis D. Thilman, manager; Harry A. Man, general agent & traffic manager; Wm. M. Dale, local contractor; Hosea F. Moyer, manager advance car; Jack L. Bledsoe, special agent. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
• Brief information on the 1913 show is online at Bandwagon, April 1945 (scroll down).
• An article on the 1913 Sanger's Greater European Shows, Jerry Mugivan and Bert Bowers, owners, is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1981, Vol. 25, No. 4, pp. 4-10.
1919: (Floyd & Howard King, owners, 1919-1921)
Sangers' R. R. Circus, wanted season of 1919. Performers in all branches with small show experience, novelty and ground acts, aerialists, wire walkers, contortionists, menage riders, clowns, especially two more lady performers who can double in posing act, and wrestler. Can place musicians for big show band. Sideshow manager who can make openings and do several acts; two oriental dancers and good mitt reader. A boss canvasman who can get it up and down. Nothing gillied with this show, everything loads on wagons. Also chandelier man familiar with B. & W. lights, and car porter who can wait on table. Privilege people - will lease balloons, also candy stand combined with pit show. Good percentage proposition. Also hamburger stand and lunch car privilege for rent. Can place sheet writers, tintype, high pitch man, percentage wheel and fast ticket seller for reserved seats. This is a two-car circus, eat and sleep on Pullman car. Wanted, billposters. Billposters address Floyd King, general agent, Planters Hotel, Chicago, Ill. All others address Sangers' European Shows, Meno, Okla. [Advertisement] Billboard, March 15, 1919, p. 63.
The Great Sanger Circus has been doing well in the Northwest. Floyd King is general agent and Howard King is manager of the show. George Atkinson joined the show in Utah. Prof. Burkhart, old-time sideshow man, gets 'em in the annex. Art Green is chef. Baby Green invariably fills the end of the big top with banners, and her act is one of the big show features. "Pony Red" Barnett is equestrian director and his personal act goes over big. Prof. Montgomery has a band of twenty-five pieces. Billboard, July 5, 1919, p. 42.
Floyd and Howard King will again send the Great Sanger Circus out in the spring, in April. Floyd is now out ahead of a hall show. Billboard, December 20, 1919, p. 82.
More on the 1919 Sanger show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down or use find.
1920:
Great Sanger Show: King Bros., proprietors; Howard King, manager; Harry Gorman, treasurer; Soldier Johnson, secretary; Floyd King, general agent; James St. Varain, local contractor; Ned Courtney, contracting press agent; Frank Satiro, press agent back with show; G. Burkhart, manager side show; Arthur Berre, equestrian director; Poggy O'Brion, general supt.; Martin Speed, supt. privileges; Fred Melvin, musical director; N. B. Fine, supt. reserved seat tickets; Wm. J. Speedy, supt. canvas; Spike Kelley, trainmaster; Slim O'Brion, boss hostler; Baxter Stinson, supt. commissary dept.; Bill Lusk, supt. lights; Cricket Weaver, supt. props.; Spider Harris, supt. ring stock; Ernest Sprague, supt. animals; George Orth, manager advance car No. 1; J. McMahon, legal adjuster; H. Hyland, announcer; three cars. Opens at Memphis, Tenn., April 19. Billboard, March 20, 1920, p. 109.
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Santos & Artigas - 1918-19
1918:
Both of the Santos & Artigas circuses in Cuba are doing big business, according to a letter from Minnie Fisher, who is with the No. 1 show. Her letter: "The Lorettas and I are with the No. 1 show, managed by Mr. Artigas. No. 2 is managed by Mr. Santos, assisted by Frank Longbottom. The Hanneford Family of riders are one of the many acts from the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, not forgetting Mr. and Mrs. George Lorett and myself, from the John Robinson Show. This show closed its season in Havana, January 6. We have been on the road three weeks, traveling in twenty cars, four stateroom sleeping cars, and the American performers are allowed the privilege of keeping house in our staterooms, as most of us don't like the Cuban cooking. . . . " Billboard, February 9, 1918, p. 31.
The Four Lloyds, managed by Wilkes Lloyd, are with the Santos & Artigas Circus in Cuba. Ouika O'Meers and Johnny Correa will take the place of the Hannefords' riding act with the Santos & Artigas Show in Cuba, as the Hannefords will again be with the Barnum & Bailey Circus. Danny Ryan, husband of Miss O'Meeers, will clown with the same show. Billboard, March 23, 1918, p. 66.
Santos and Artigas, the Cuban circus celebrities, have an interesting career. The first time Santos met Artigas was sixteen years ago, both employed in the office of a Cuban cigar factory and tobacco plantation. They made plans to go into business for themselves. They saved $600 and started as commission dealers, without any thought of becoming showmen. They sold motion picture films, and were successful until the theatrical trust of the island became too strong. To fight the trust they formed a stock company under the title of Compania Cinematografica Habaners, eventually broke the trust and obtained possession of all of the shares, creating a partnership under the name of Santos y Artigas, securing exclusive rights of European producers, such as Pathe, Cines, Caesar and Celio. Their success was instantaneous, soon getting control of a circuit of ten theaters in Cuba, building some of their own houses, producing operas, musical comedies, dramas and vaudeville. The various circus performances that visited Cuba convinced Santos and Artigas that a real circus show would be a success. The came to the United States and booked many features from the Barnum & Bailey, Ringling Bros. and Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows, opening their first circus in Cuba in 1916. In 1917 and 1918 their show had grown so they sent out two companies, each with twenty-three railroad cars. Their next tour will start in Havana in November. Billboard, June 15, 1918, p. 28.
Lulu Davenport, Edith and Bessie Costello and Ed Walton, late of Ringling Bros. Circus, will open with the Santos & Artigas Circus. The act will be under the title of The Riding Estrellas. Billboard, October 26, 1918, p. 54.
Brock Bros. and Edna, horizontal bar gymnasts late of the John Robinson Circus and formerly of the Ringling Bros. and Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows, have signed contracts with the Santos & Artigas Circus, for a twenty-four week engagement in Cuba. At present the members of the act are at their home in Huntington, W. Va. Billboard, November 2, 1918, p. 26.
1919:
Havana, Cuba, Dec. 26. Both organizations, representing the Santos y Artigas Circo, viz., the Red Show and the Blue Show, are now in opertation. The Blue Sohw, took the road for a tour of the Island, December 12, with the following artists: the Four Harringtons; Lulu Davenport, equestrian; the Four Estrellas, riding act; Captain Wilmuth, lion tamer; Ella & Co., acrobats; Santos y Artigas' elephants; Pepito, musical clown; Jack and Foris, comedians and hand balancers, and Young & Young, comedy acrobats. The show is under the management of Pablo Santos. The Red Show, under the management of Jesus Artigas, at the Payret Theater, headed by May Wirth, rider, included: Everest's Monkeys; Bert 'Hughes' Trick Cyclists; Kelly's Ponies and Bucking Mule; Castrillions, acrobats; the Wirth Family, comedy riders; Loretta Twins, bar performers; Ernestonians, aerialists; Novikoff's wire act; Weedon's Tigers; Brock Bros., comedy bars; Mijares & Co., wire comedians; Miss Alice, Risely act and Carpi and Nopi, Spanish clowns. On January 8 the Red Show will also take the road for a tour of the Island. Billboard, January 4, 1919, p. 54.
Messrs. Santos and Artigas, Cuban showmen, have brought their two shows on the island to a close. The Red Show finished its tour April 15, and the Blue Show April 20. Billboard, May 3, 1919, p. 34.
The Santos & Artigas Circus (Blue Show), which closed the season in Cuba, April 20, was scheduled to sail for South America May 10, opening in Colon May 15 and playing along the Canal Zone. The tour is to last from eight to fourteen months. Pablo Santos, one of the owners, will travel with the show, while Mr. Artigas, his partner, will remain in Cuba to attend to their attractions there. Twenty-seven acts will be carried on the tour, and there will be elephants, lions, tigers, dogs and ponies. Among acts engaged are the Ella Trio, Jack and Foris, Edith Walton, equestrienne; the Castrillions, acrobats;Loretta Twins, the Waltens, the Ernstonians, Chang Lang Chinese Troupe, Three Arleys, perch; Pepito, Thomas Wilmoth, lions; Mr. Weedon, tigers, and the Mexican Bell Ringers. Instead of carrying a band, an orchestra will be engaged. The Casting Campbells have been booked to open with the Santos & Artigas Circo at Havanna, Cuba, in November. Billboard, May 17, 1919, pp. 36, 37, 52.
The Circo Santos & Artigas program of acts: Ernstonian Troupe (four), aerial return act; Ella & Co., hand balancing acrobatic act; Three Arleys, perch act on forehead; Jack & Foris, eccentric acrobats and clowns; Sing On Chinese Troupe, Six Castrillons, acrobats; Pepito, Cuban clown; the Carmelos, jugglers; Santos & Artigas' elephants (three), ponies (six), dogs (ten), mule, eight lions, worked by Tom Wilmoth, and six tigers worked by Herman Weedon; Los Atreau, Spanish dancer; Tom Mills, cyclist; Atayed & Atayed, musical clowns; the LaMonts and performing cockatoos, and Ed Walton and Edith Costello, equestrians. Thirty different acts will be offered. Billboard, May 24, 1919, p. 38.
Business for the Santos & Artigas Circus on its South American tour has failed to come up to expectations due to the high cost of living there, according to a letter from J. Lamont, of Lamont's Performing Cockatoos. . . . Billboard, October 4, 1919, p. 44.
The Santos Y Artigas Circus opened in Havana, Cuba, November 21. On the program are the Flying Nelsons, Athos and Read, Juan Correa, Morales Family, Mr. and Mrs. Pallenberg, Ponzini Troupe, Miss McDonald, Emil Schweyer's lions, Fantino Troupe, Carl Eugene Troupe, J. Parolis, Correa Family, Adams Trio, Lenat Troupe, Morales Bros., Rue Enos, Demarlo Duo, Los Ridriguez, Miss Mary, Baader-Lavelle Troupe. Billboard, December 13, 1919, p. 56.
More on Santos & Artigas show, 1919, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Sargent & Kidder - 1892
Wanted, for the traveling season of 1892 with Sargent & Kidder's New Railroad Show. A few first class artists to fill company. Performing dogs, monkeys and goats, aerial artists, acrobats, triple bar team, Japanese acts and juggling, lady club swinger and slack wire. All must do two or more turns, all contracts made by F. W. Sargent of the Wm. Main & Co. Show, are good for Sargent & Kidder's New Railroad Show. Address Sargent & Kidder's New Railroad Show, Windsor, Astabula Co., Ohio. Would like to hear from the lady contortionist that was with the Cooper & Carroll Show last season. New York Clipper, February 13, 1892, p. 820.
The Merediths, Albert and Marguerite, aerialists, have signed with Sargent & Kidder's New Railroad Show. New York Clipper, February 20, 1892, p. 827.
Geo. W. Boring, clown and comedian, has signed with Sargent & Kidder's New Railroad Shows as principal clown. New York Clipper, March 5, 1892, p. 859.
Call. Sargent & Kidder's New Railroad Shows. Performers, musicians, property men and other report for rehearsals Thursday, May ?, at Orwell Station, Ashtabula Co., O., on the Pittsburg, Youngstown & Ashtabula Railroad. Can use a few more sensational acts. Address Sargent & Kidder, Windsor, Ashtabula Co., Ohio. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 108.
The Merediths, Albert and Marguerite, have signed with Sargent & Kidder's Railroad Show, their third season with that company. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 114.
Wanted at once, Sargent & Kidder's New Railroad Show. A bar team that do two or more acts. Would like to hear from Jack Fitz(?) of Fitz(?) and Ricardo. Regards of Al. Meredith. Wire as per route. Sargent & Kidder. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 173.
On the road, circuses: Sargent & Kidder's, Middleport NY June 1, Gasport 2, Lockport 3, 4. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
Prof. Mons. Taylor, controtionist, and his troupe of performing dogs have joined Sargent & Kidder's Circus. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
• Also see Main & Co. for 1892.
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Satterlee, Bell & Co. - 1858
• R. G. Satterlee and Oliver Bell, owners.
[Advertisement] Satterlee, Bell & Co.'s Great American Circus! R. C. Satterlee, manager. Oliver Bell, equestrian director. This company, the largest and most magnificent in the United States, will exhibit at Marshall, Friday, May 28. Our entrance into town will be announced by a grand cavalcade, preceded by our splendid band chariot, drawn by the longest train of horses ever driven by one man, containing Reed's Rover Brass Band, led by _. O. Reed, Esq., the wizard bugler. On the day of performance, a grand ascension, by M'lle Antoinette, the charming French equilibrist, from the ground to the top of the center pole, should the weather permit.
The performance in the arena will commence with a grand entree, and followed by the celebrated acts of Thos. Neville, the greatest trick rider in America, who has been secured for a short season at the enormous salary of $100 per week. Oliver Bell, in his daring and perilous act of jumping through a hoop of steel daggers! A feat never before attempted by any equestrian in the world. Dan Castillo, the great Southern clown, who as one of the characters in the two comics has no equal in the world, will enliven the interludes in the arena with diamond-like wit, and during the performance throw a double somersault, one of the greatest feats ever accomplished.
John Davenport, late clown of Spalding & Rogers' Circus, will sing his inimitable comic songs, which with his peculiar talent, has stamped him one of the best clowns of the age. Oliver Worstel, the great four horse rider in his matchless act with four beautifully matched horses. Charles Morrison, in his new and original act, never before attemped by any other person, entitled the chair perch. John Wolfington, the famous light and heavy balancer in his wonderful feats. Hiram Marcks, the celebrated scenic rider in his representations of the various characters of the day. I. W. Tucker, the great contortionist, or India-rubber man now in the world.
M'lle Antoinette, the charming French equestrienne in a variety of acts. Mons. Louis and Antoine, in their beautiful poses upon two horses. M'lle Louise, the celebrated equestrienne and danseuse, from the Royal Theatre of Paris, St. Petersburg, &c. The Andalusian Brothers, whose unequalled performances upon the perch, corde volante, &c., have stamped them the greatest performers of the age. And in addition to the above we have a host of performers, but want of space forbids further comment. The above list presents an array of star performers, seldom seen in any one company. We can say without fear of contradiction that we have the best riders in America, best clowns, best acrobats, finest horses and outfit, of any company traveling in the United States, and we respectfully submit to the public for their decision. Doors open at 2 and 7 o'clock p.m. Performances at 2 1/2 and 7 1/2. Positively no money taken at the door. O. F. Bemer, agent. Democratic Expounder (Marshall, MI), May 20, 1858, n.p.n.
• 1858: online at:
Clipper, May 22, Clipper, May 29, Clipper, July 3 (scroll down)
Clipper, July 17 (scroll down)
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Sig. Sautelle's - 1885-86, 1889, 1890-94, 1896-97, 1900, 1904-05, 1911-14, 1918, 1919
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1882-86, 1889-1904, 1911-14, 1919, 1926
Postcard, probably from the late 1800s. - Postcard courtesy of Bob Cline.
1885:
Sig. Sautelle’s Pavilion Show opens at Fort Edward, N.Y., May 7. Fifteen gilt-painted and lettered wagons carry the show. Size of tent, 150 ft. round top, with 30 ft. middle piece; size of sideshow tent 60 x 80 ft. oblong; size of horse tent, 35 x 50 ft. The show is officered as follows: Sole proprietor and manager, Sig. Sautelle; treasurer, Geo. C. Satterlee; advance manager, Clin J. Van Scoter; contracting agent, C. J. Mosher; amusement director, Sig. Levardo; boss billposter, Geo. W. Moody with ten assistants; boss canvasman, Dan Traver; master of properties, A. B. Johnson; master of stock, Bill Williams; wardrobe man, Johnny Nichols, with the following artists: Billy Nichols and Addie Francis, James Joyce, Geo. M. Larosa, McNally and English, M. A. Acker, Jas. Quinlan, Wm. and Bertha Lee, Geo. W. Barlow, Deforest West, Talman Bros., Nutton and Carrier, Prof. Shultz and silver coronet band; Mlle. Selna, owner of sideshow privileges; J. E. Belcher, owner of inside and outside candy privileges. New York Clipper, May 2, 1885.
1886:
The following have been engaged for Sig. Sautelle's Pavilion Shows: Sig. Sautelle, proprietor and manager; Geo. C. Satterlee, treasurer; Dick Chamberlin, press agent . . . Porter Randall, boss billposter. Performers: Ida Sautelle, Nelson Clare, three Garnello Brothers . . . Alex Brothers, N. W. Carey and C. D. Kennedy, Sanford Hiller, Andy Morris and his "Humpty Dumpty" Troupe, Prof. F. Elkins' cornet band of ten pieces. . . . The show travels by wagon and opens May 12 at Fort Edward, N.Y. New York Clipper, April 17, 1886, p. 71.
A person with from fifteen hundred to two thousand dollars, cash, can buy an interest in a wagon show that is doing good business. Address as per route, Sig. Sautelle, Sautelle's Consolidated Shows. New York Clipper, August 7, 1886, p. 334.
Mons. Searles and Zoe Zeonetti joined Sautelle's Show at Hemlock Lake, N.y., last week. New York Clipper, August 28, 1886, p. 372.
1889:
A. L. Dolson has signed as general agent for the Sautelle Circus, which opens its season early next month at Syracuse, N.Y. It will be Mr. Dolson's second season with that show. New York Clipper, April 13, 1889, p. 81.
Harry Wambold and Billy and Fannie Favre joined the Sautelle Shows at Palmyra, N.Y., June 1. A. L. Dolson continues as the general agent. Manager Sautelle is contemplating the addition of a Wild West troupe to his show. New York Clipper, June 15, 1889, p. 225.
Notes from the Sawtelle Shows. Manager Sawtelle has ordered a new 50ft. middle piece for the big top, he has also added a trained horse, two ponies and a trick mule. Lee Powell, veteran clown, recently joined, has them under charge and is working them nicely. Billy Irwin, formerly of the Irwin Bros., is with the show. New York Clipper, June 29, 1889, p. 257.
1890:
The Inman Bros., contortionists, have signed with Sig. Sautelle's Boat Shows for the coming season. New York Clipper, January 18, 1890, p. 749.
Smith and Roy have signed with Sig. Sautelle's Show for next season. New York Clipper, January 25, 1890, p. 759.
J. B. Stafford [Swafford?] has signed to go in advance of Sig. Sautelle's Circus the coming season. New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 791.
James Swafford, who is to be with Sautelle's Circus this season, was knocked down and robbed at Cincinnati recently. He is recovering from his injuries. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 75.
Dottie Pullman goes with Sautelle's Show this season. C. R. De Wolfe and J. W. Swafford have begun advance operations for the show. New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 103.
Sig. Sautelle's New Shows will be equipped with new canvas at Brockport, N. Y., June 18(?). . . . The show reports uniformly good business. New York Clipper, June 21, 1890, p. 231.
Sautelle's Circus and Wild West closed its sixth annual tenting season, Oct. 18(?), and went into winter quarters at Syracuse, N. Y. Next year the show will be considerably enlarged and strengthened in every department, and many new features will be added. Manager Sautelle has booked time and organized a hall show to take the road this winter, to be known as Sautelle's Carnival of Wonders and Trained Animal Exposition, in which his troupe of trained horses, ponies, donkeys and dogs will be the main feature. New York Clipper, November 8, 1890, 558.
1891:
These people have signed with Sautelle's Show for next season: Al. C. Dodson, general advance and contractor; Mlle. Cerito; Lottie Lewis, Clif.(?) Lewis . . . Lee Hazel and Eva; Frank Leopold . . . The show will add a new ticket wagon, a new band wagon and three new baggage wagons. The show will be bright and new all the way through. The workmen at Mr. Sautelle's winter quarters, Syracuse, N. Y., are busy building, repairing, painting and ornamenting the entire outfit, regardless of expense. Sig. Sautelle says that this will be his crowning effort, and that the show will be larger, better and brighter than ever. New York Clipper, January 10, 1891, p. 702.
Wanted, for Sautelle's New All Featured Shows, Museum and Trained Animal Exposition. People in all branches of the circus business. A bounding jockey and 4 horse rider with or without stock. Side show privileges for sale. Address, winter quarters. Sig. Sautelle, 249 No. Salina(?) St., Syracuse, N.Y. For sale, 60 foot round top, used last season, in good order. Price, $___. New York Clipper, January 31, 1891, p. 750.
Al Dolson, agent, does not go with Sautelle's Circus next season, as has been wrongly reported. Mr. Dolson is a present doing the advance work for Barlow Bros.' Minstrels, and has not yet signed for 1891. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
J. B. Swafford has been engaged as general agent for Sautelle's Shows, making his second season with that circus. New York Clipper, February 21, 1891, p. 795.
Kitty West, the Three Indian Bros. and Prof. West are recent addition to the roster of Sautelle's Shows. Prof. West is doing some fine horse training, and a feature will be made of it in the new show. Agent J. B. Swafford tells us that the tour will open in May, and that painters, decorators, etc., are now at work on the wagons and boats(?). New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 49.
The advance brigade of the Sautelle Show commenced operations April ?? under the direction of J. B. Swafford, with Lewis Bennett and three assistants. The show opens May __ at Fayetteville, N. Y. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Weedsport, N. Y. May 20, 21, Port Byron 22 . . . Waterloo 27 . . . New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 187.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Waterloo, N. Y. May 27, Seneca Falls 28, 30 . . . Lyons June 2, 3 . . . New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
J. B. Swafford, agent of Sautelle’s New Show, recently paid the co. a visit. Business is reported excellent, although the weather has thus far been cold. The show is doing New York state this week. New York Dramatic News, June 6, 1891, p. 10.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, . . . Newark NY June 4 . . . Fairport 6 . . . Brighton 9, Spencerport 10 . . . New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 219.
Notes from the Sawtelle [sic] Show. Mr. Sawtelle had a surprise in store for the boys at Clyde, N. Y. He was away from the show for a few days, and no one could account for his absence. When Clyde was reached, we found an elegant new boat, finely furnished and decorated, and four big dapple gray horses and four new wagons, handsomely painted. The boats were landed by the side of the new boat, and a more dumbfounded lot of people could not be imagined. The show is doing a big business, far exceeding all former seasons. We are carrying an 80ft. round top, with two 40ft. middle pieces, and the show includes fifty-four people in its entirety. Frank Black recently joined the advance force. Everybody is enjoying good health, and the “man in white” never fails to make his appearance on time. New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 230.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, . . . Holly NY June 12 . . . New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 231.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Lockport NY June 24, Tonawanda 25-27, Newport July 2, Syracuse 4-12. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
Wanted, for Sautelle's New Show, brother act that can work bars, singing clown, wire act. Address Sig. Sautelle, Syracuse, N.Y., July 4 to 11. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 290.
Sautelle's Show is still reaping a rich harvest. The show's boating season closes Aug. 22, when the company will begin a tour of nine weeks by wagon. . . . Clarence Rummell closed at Syracuse, N. Y., in order to prepare for their engagement with Barlow Bros.' Minstrels. Dot Blendenger joined July 4. Manager Sautelle is making arrangements to send out a specialty company and parlor circus early in October. James B. Swafford will continue as agent. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 296.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Syracuse, NY July 6-11, Fulton 13, Phoenix 14, Baldwinsville 15, Liverpool 16, East Syracuse 17, Fayetteville 18. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 301.
. . . Pauline Carre, principal bareback and hurdle rider, joined Sawtelle's Show recently. . . . New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
James B.Swafford, of Sawtelle's Circus, and Minnie Heindorf, of Syracuse, N.Y., are to be married in the fall. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, . . . Rome NY July 23, 24 . . . Utica 27, 28. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 332.
The advance brigade of Sautelle's Show consists of J. B. Swafford, general agent; John Toomey, contracting agent; E. H. Scofield, billposter, with two assistants, and James Rodman in charge of programmes and lithographs. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 416.
On the road, circuses: Sawtelle's . . . Mayfield NY Aug 27, Johnstown 28, Norwood 29. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 417.
1892:
Wanted, for Sautelle's New All Feature Shows, people in all branches of the circus profession. Riders, gymnasts, acrobats and aerial artists of merit and ability only. Also people for concert and sideshow. Address Sig. Sautelle, Sautelle's Circus __ Street, Syracuse, N.Y. New York Clipper, January 23, 1892, p. 770.
W. C. Brainard has been secured as business manager with Sautelle's Circus, Museum and Trained Animal Exposition, in the place of J. B. Swafford, who had filled the position for the last two seasons to the satisfaction of Sig. Sautelle. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
J. B. Swafford opens with Sawtelle's Circus, as general agent, April __. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
Samuel Bruns, of Buffalo, N.Y., has secured the candy privileges with Sautelle's Circus, Museum and Trained Animal Exposition. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
Sautelle's Circus notes. We open our season May 13(?) at Fayetteville, N.Y. Our show has been greatly enlarged and repainted, and there has been no money spared in making this one of the neatest little shows on the road. The advance began operation April 28, under the director of J. B. Swafford, general agent. Henry Schofield is chief of the bill brigade, with two assistants. . . . and Ed. Shaffer is lithographer. Mr. Sautelle has been on the sick list for some time, but is able to be about again. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 130.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Fayettsville NY May 13, East Syracuse 14. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 135.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Jordan NY May 16, Weedsport 17 . . . Clyde 19, Neward 20, Macedon 21. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 151.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, . . . Clyde NY May 19, Newark 20, Macedon 21 . . . Spencerport 26, Holley 27, Hulberton 28. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 167.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Rochester NY May 25, Spencerport 26, Holly 27, Halbarton 28, Middleport June 1, Gasport 2, Lockport 3, 4. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 183.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Middleport NY June 1, Gasport 2, Lockport 3, 4, Tonawanda 6-9, Martinsville 10, Pendleton 11. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Tonawanda NY June 8, 9, Martinsville 10, Pendleton 11 . . . Albion 14, Brocaport 15, 16, Brishton 17, Pittsford 18. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
Rowley Bros. and Russell have joined Sautelle's Circus. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 228.
For sale cheap. A complete show outfit. __ft. round top with middle piece 11(?)ft. wall Thompson & Vandevere, stakes, poles, ropes blocks, falls, __ jacks, uprights, __ stage scenery, all ready to set up except stakes, all in good condition. I also want to sell my circus, which is on the road now playing to good business. The cleanest and best paying show on earth for the amount invested. My reason for selling is that I have made money enough to keep me without working so hard, and I want to take a rest. . . . Whoever buys the show will not have to lay out a penny, for the show is complete from start to finish. This is a rare chance for anyone who wants a paying show. If I do not sell the show it will be kept on the road by me. Address or call and see for yourself. Sig. Sautelle, Sautelle's Circus, as per route. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 241.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle, Lyons NY June 22, Seneca Falls 23 . . . Ft. Byron 27 . . . Fullton July 1 . . . New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 248.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Syracuse NY June 29, Liverpool 30, Fulton July 1, Phoenix 2, Baldwinsville 4, East Syracuse 5, Manlius 6. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 265.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Manlina NY July 6, Canastoia 8, Oneida 9, Rome 11, 12, Oriskany 13, Utica 14, 15, Frankfort 16. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
J. B. Swafford closes as general agent of Sautelle's Circus July 14(?). New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Orsikany NY July 13, Utica 14, 15, Frankfort 16 . . . Mohawk 19, Herkimer 20, Little Falls 21, St. Johnsville 22, Fort Plain 23. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
The canvas of Sawtelle's [sic] Circus was blown down at Utica, July 14?. The audience left the tent when the storm commenced and all escaped unhurt. Three performers were slightly injured by falling poles. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 308.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Herkimer NY July 20, St. Johnsville 21, Fort Plain 22 . . . New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 300.
Roster of the advance with Sautelle's Circus: J. C. Tomey, contracting agent . . . W. D. Long, programmer, and O. Henry Scofield, boss billposter with four assistants. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Amsterdam NY July 27, 28, Schnectady 29, 31, Albany Aug 1, 2, West Troy, 3, 4, Cohoes 5, 6. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
Sawtelle's [sic] Circus closes the season Aug. 17. Mr. S. will take out a wagon show for the remainder of his dates. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 340.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, West Troy NY Aug 3, 4 . . . 6, Waterford 8, Mechanicsville 9, Stillwater 10, Schuylerville 11, Fort Edward 12, Sandy Hill 13. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 341.
[Ad] Mlle. Pauline Carre, bareback equestrienne, at liberty after Aug. 13. Principal act, bound jockey, or one riding act and single trapeze. Own my own properties and stock. Address per route Sautelle's Circus until August 13. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 353.
Smith and Roy have closed a ten weeks' engagement with the Sautelle Show, and are resting at their home, Lyons, N.Y. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 356.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Stillwater NY Aug 10, Schuylerville 11, Fort Edward 12, Sandy Hill 13. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 361.
1893:
Sig. Sautelle's New Big Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie and Trained Animal Exposition. Want people in all branches of the circus profession. Dens, cages, elephant, camels and animals; also tableaux cars, steam caliope [sic] and wardrobe of all kinds. For sale, complete layout for a small show, wagons, seats, lights and . . . all ready to set up, separately or together at a bargain. Address Sig. Sautelle, sole owner, Syracuse, New York. New York Clipper, January 14, 1893, p. 729.
On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Spencerport NY June 1, Brockport 2 . . . Albion 5 . . . New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
On the road, circuses: Sawtelle's [sic], Rome NY June 21 . . . Utica 23. New York Clipper, June 24, 1893, p. 248.
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Shows. The following is the change made in our show the past week. We have left the boats and manager Sautelle has purchased three new baggage wagons, on four horse band wagon, a two horse ticket wagon, a two horse passenger wagon, one two seated passenger wagon, two buggies, one trick mule and two educational ponies, a total of fifty-nine head of stock with the show. Mr. Sautelle bought twenty head of young iron gray horses at Ft. Edward recently. The ring stock are in fine condition. This show fives five riding acts, one of them a four horse act by Wm. Hamilton. Last week the new 100(?)ft. round top, with a __ft. middle piece, arrived. Everyting is brand new, and business is first class. The advance brigade has been enlarged in one four horse bill wagon, one two horse, a paste and programmer wagon and a one horse with buggy. . . . We are playing in towns two weeks ahead of the Barnum Show. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
Notes from Sautelle's Circus. We are in the heart of the Adriondack Mountains, and playing to immense business. Recent additions to our stock department ___ of three iron(?) gray horses, two of which are leaders in the band chariot, making eight in the string. . . . We have a good old fashioned one ring circus and give nineteen acts, ___ of which are riding acts as follows: Mlle. Hamilton, principal one horse; Tony(?) Hamilton, jockey hurdle, one horse, and Wm. Hamilton, four horse act. Sport, the big white bull dog, does a fine riding act, jumping over banners. Tom Roberts, the Indian hurrah bareback rider, does a fine act. His make up is so perfect the the audience think him a real Indian. Wm. Hamilton is the Pete Jenkins of the show, and he looks like a big countryman fresh from the woods. At Ellizabethtown, N.Y., Pete came in the front entrance and ___ backwoods warwhoop, apparently very drunk, and tumbled over the guard, ___ the ring, stopping the performance of ___ Marra, the principal clown, who was riding. Mr. Roberts, ring master, promptly pitched Pete out of the ring, remarking at the time if Pete had any friends in the audinece to take care of him. Pete wanted to fight the crowd, and a big rube constable arrested Pete and started for the lock up downtown. He only got as far as the door entrance, however, when Mr. Sautelle told the constable that Pete was one of the company, and that was part of the play. The officer will never hear the last of that arrest in Elizabethtown. "Hey Rube" has only been called once this season, and that was at Mineville(?), N.Y. last week. The ___ came to the night show in force. The ___ of the town and some twenty of his ___ made an attempt to clean out the show [and] the concert. The boss canvas man yelled "Hey Rube," and Reuben was there with stakes, neck yokes, etc. The circus men cleaned out the ruffians. . . . The show came out of the fight without a scratch. Everybody is well. Prince Marco is one of the good, old, funny clowns . . . The man with a "white collar" is on hand every Sunday. New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 362.
From the Sautelle Show. "Prince Muro" is creating quite a sensation with his clown specialties. Mrs. Kathleeen Muro joined the show at ___ N.Y., Aug. 15. We have twelve weeks yet to stay out this season, and business has been tremendously big ever since opening day. Mr. Sautelle was on the sick list all last week, but he is now on duty, shoving out the paste boards and pulling in the shining shekels. New York Clipper, August 26, 1893, p. 394.
Wanted, for season of 1894, Sig Sautelle's One Ring Circus, riders, gymnasts, acrobats, rope dancers, clowns, side show and concert people, musicians, boss canvas man, boss hostler, 4 and 8 horse drivers, bill posters, etc. I have 80(?)x120(?) tent, 12 foot side wall, for sale cheap. Sig. Sautelle, Fulton Street, Syracuse, N.Y. New York Clipper, December 23, 1893, p. 681.
1894:
Frank Burns has been engaged as general contracting agent for Sig. Sautelle's Circus. Mr. Burns was with the Forepaugh Show last season. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 833.
Notes from Sautelles' Circus. Season will open at Fayetteville, N.Y., May 4(?). The advance brigade left the winter quarters at Syracuse on their tour April 21 with the following in charge: . . . Geo. W. Ripley, press agent; Walter Callahan, boss bill poster with two assistants . . . Frank Smith, programmer. The advance consists of agent's buggy with one horse and one two horse bill wagon. The show travels this season by wagon. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 117.
Sautelle Show notes. . . . The people engaged are: Sig. Sautelle, sole owner and proprietor; Mrs. Ida Sautelle, treasurer . . . Tony Hamiton, jockey and four horse rider . . . Dan Travers, wardrobe . . . Prof. Saterlee's educated dogs, ponies and monkeys. . . . New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 163.
1896:
Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Big One Ring Circus and Trained Animal Exhibition. Roster: Sig. Sautelle, sole owner and manager; Chas. G. Allen, general agent and contractor; James Shipman, general superintendent; John T. Casey, treasurer. Performers: Chas. Watson, Lottie Watson, Al Norton, Mlle. Cordelle, Billy Lorenne; Lottie Loreane, Dot Delmo, Dora Delmo, Horace Webb, John Webb, Bert Baker, Geo. Rober, Sardo, Alex Nominee, Frank S. Austin, Lall Eggleston, Sam Hormer, Santella, Thos. L. Finn, Thos. Nichols, Geo. Nichols, C. Cameron, Geo. Saterlee, Mme. Cerito, Helene Marr, Eagle Eye, Fleet Foot, Ada Briggs, Uno, Mlle Uno . . . Ed Williams, boss canvasman with fifteen assistants; Jack Conkling, boss hostler with thirty assistants; Jack McKenzie, master of properties with four assistants; John Alexander, chandeliers with one assistant; Prof. Brown's band and orchestra of twelve soloists for the big show, and John Keller's Brass Band of seven pieces for sideshow annex. The rolling stock consists of seventeen baggage wagons and three cages. One wardrobe wagon, one ticket wagon, one surrey, two chariots for bands, three buggies, two passenger wagons, one chandelier wagon and three advance wagons. The live stock consists of one hundred and three head of horses, donkeys, mules, ponies, etc., one pony trap and one donkey clown cart. The advance: Henry Scofield with five assistants, brigade No. 1; Charlie Holmes and assistants, brigade No. 2, and E. Banks, press agent. One hundred foot top, with fifty foot middle piece; four horse tents, one pony tent, one cook tent, dressing room, fifty foot round top, sideshow top, forty by seventy feet, and a cook tent, 29x47 feet. Frank Synder, manager cookhouse; Billy Welsh, outside candy stand; Chas. McAvoy, inside candy stand; Prof. Phillips, candy maker. Mrs. Sautelle will run the candy stand. All other privileges are run and owned by Sig. Sautelle. We open early in May. New York Clipper, April 11, 1896, p. 86.
• See the article on the 1897 show and on Sig Sautelle, online in Bandwagon, December 1944.
1900: Sig. Sautelle's new big 25-cent shows open in Homer, N. Y., May 10. The shows will carry more people, equipment, horses, ponies and donkeys this year than ever before. There will be several brass bands with the show. Sig. Sautelle is sole owner and manager; J. C. Banks, secretary; Dave Haley, general agent; P. Rhoades, superintendent; Charles Watson, equestrian director; R. E. Flynn, bandmaster. Billboard, May 5, 1900, p. 3.
• 1904: The Sig. Sautelle Circus arrived in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, July 14, 1904, from Lee. They had one train, consisting of 9 flat cars, 5 horse cars, 4 sleepers, and 40 wagons. Among the wagons were 16 cages, 2 chariots. They also had 3 camels and 5 elephants. Bandwagon, May-June, 1963, p. 1.
• 1905: In September, 1905, Sig Sautelle and John Welsh joined forces to operate the Sig Sautelle & Welsh Bros. Circus that toured for only thirty-two days. The show opened in Rochester, Pennsylvania on September 6, and closed in Quarryville, Pennsylvania on October 7, when their partnership was dissolved. Bandwagon, July-August, 1988, Vol. 32, No. 4, p. 2.
• 1911: George W. Rollins and Oscar Lowande were the owners, a wagon show. Bandwagon, August, 1942, p. 1.
1912:
Sig Sautelle's Show - Sig. Sautelle, Oscar Lowande and George W. Rollins, props.; Sig. Sautelle, mgr.; C. E. Shepard, treas.; Mrs. Sautelle, Mrs. Rollins and Mrs. Lowande, auditors; Frank H. Stowell, general agent; J. C. Oyler, local contractor; Wm. Davis, contracting press agent; C. E. Shepard, press agent back with show; George W. Rollins, mgr. side show; Oscar Lowande, equestrian director; Harry R. Tyron, general supt.; Wm. Chapman, supt. privileges; Louis Crainbelli, musical director; Herbert W. Gligore, supt. reserved seat tickets; Daniel Traver, supt. canvas; H. J. Shumate, boss hostler; Wm. Clough, supt. commissary dept.; Edward Dilme, supt. lights; John Haggerty, supt. properties; Steve Connely, supt. ring stock; Doc Kingman, supt. stock; James H. Cannon, twenty-four hour agent; Henry Fountain, supt. elephants; Wm. DcDermott, boss carpenter; Clarence Weatherspoon, supt. animals; Calvin Traver, blacksmith; George W. Rollins and D. F. Coughlin, announcers. Show opens at Homer, N. Y. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
After the close of the Sig Sautelle Show, Rose Reynolds, the lion trainer, left for her home in Cleveland, Ohio. She expects to leave for California in the spring. Billboard, December 21, 1912, p. 38.
1913: Sig Sautelle Nine Shows - Sig Sautelle, Oscar Lowande and Geo. W. Rollins, proprietors; Sig Sautelle, manager; Oscar Lowande, assistant manager; Mrs. Sautelle, treasurer; Howard Robinson, secretary; Mrs. M. Lowande and Mrs. B. Rollings, auditors; Bert Rutherford, general agent and railroad contractor; Thos. Hargraves, local contractor; John Hays, special agent; M. Connors, contracting press agent; Horace Dickinson, excursion agent; Geo. W. Rollins, sideshow manager; Oscar Lowande, equestrian director; Nebraska Bill, general superintendent; Mrs. Rollins, superintendent privileges; E. B. Flanagin, musical director; Chas. Graham, superintendent reserved seat tickets; Dan Travis, superintendent canvas; Chas. Connors, trainmaster; Jack Shumate, boss hostler; Del(?) Adams, superintendent commissary department; Edw. Dilme, superintendent lights; Henry Maynard, superintendent props; Henry Reed, superintendent ring stock; Tom Williams, 24-hour agent; Frank Cramer, superintendent elephants; Bill Downie, boss carpenter; Jack Rutherback, superintendent animals; Frank Wickwire, blacksmith; Chas. M. Connors, manager advertising car No. 1; Wm. Jack, manager advertising car No. 2; Fred Witham, checker-up; Wm. Chapman, legal adjuster; Geo. W. Rollins, announcer. Show opens at Courtland, N. Y., May 2. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
1914:
Sautelle Nine Big Shows: Sig Sautelle, Oscar Lowande & Geo. Rollins, proprietors; Sig. Sautelle, manager & treasurer; Oscar Lowande, assistant manager; Howard Robinson, secretary; Mrs. Blanche Rollins & Mrs. Mamie Lowande, auditors; John Henry Rice, general agent & R. R. contractor; Arthur Compton, local contractor; Wm. Diamond, special agent; M. C. Connors, contracting press agent; J. C. Hughes, press agent back with show; Arthur Drake, excursion agent; Geo. W. Rollins, manager sideshow; Oscar Lowande, equestrian director; Eugene Woodworth, general supt.; Harry Allen, supt. privileges; Harry Sturgess, musical director; Johnny Benton, supt. reserved seat tickets; Dan Traver, supt. convans; John Dailey, trainmaster; Harry Curtis, supt. commissary dept.; Ed Harrison, supt. lights, with Will Traver, assistant; Aleck Brown, supt. props.; Geo. Meade, supt. ring stock; Fred Kettler, 24-hour agent; John Cardona, supt. elephants; Wm. Downing, boss carpenter; Scott Rager, supt. animals; Doc Ward, blacksmith; Mike Connors, manager advance car No. 1; Jack Evarts, manager advance car No. 2; C. W. Marquette, checker-up; Harry Allen, legal adjuster; Geo. W. Rollins, announcer. Show opens at Cortland, N.Y., May 2. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 49.
Louis D. Thilman headed a body of men who purchased the Sig Sautelle Circus from Sautelle at Glenn Falls, N.Y., in August 1914. Show changed hands again October 21 same year, Col. W. P. Hall buying all but baggage horses at Lawrenceburg, Ind. "Circus Changes of the Past," C. E. Duble, Note Sheet No. 5 (Circus Historical Society), November 16, 1942.
1918:
Wanted for the Sig. Sautelle New Overland Show, transported on its specially built train of Packard auto trucks. Performers presenting new and novel acts. Animal act, dogs, bears, goats, birds and cats; band, leader and musicians; side show, magic, Punch, freaks and living wonders; advance, billposters, lithographers, and banner men; cook house, cook and waiters; motor truck drivers, man to handle lights. Property men, canvas and seat men. Advance, address C. P. Farrington; working crew, Clint A. Graham; all others, Geo. A. Manchester, Sautelle Show, Crompton, Rhode Island. [Advertisement] Billboard, March 2, 1918, p. 67.
Crompton, R.I., March 2. The Sig Sautelle Show will take the road May 11, transported on its own motor trucks. Manager Geo. A. Manchester has placed an ordr for a train of three and one-half ton trucks. A contract has been closed with the Artic Cabinet Company to construct the bodies for the trucks. This will be a new departure for Sig Sautelle, as it has always traveled by either wagon or railroad. The winter quarters are under the direction of Clint A. Graham, general superintendent, and manager Geo. A. Manchester is signing up people for both the big show and side show. The circus will have a menagerie, which was not carried last year. There will be no horses carried witht he exception of ring stock. Mr. Sautelle has gone to his home in Homer, N.Y., and after a brief visit, will return to quarters here. Billboard, March 9, 1918, p. 28.
Crompton, R.I., March 9. Manager George A. Manchester of the Sig Sautelle Overland Shows. Eight cages of animals will be carried. C. P. Farrington will again be the general agent. The advance, with a crew of eight men, will travel in automobiles. Billboard, March 16, 1918, p. 28.
Sig Sautelle Circus. Geo. A. Manchester, manager; C. P. Farrington, general agent; M. Russell, press agent; Clint A. Graham, supt. working crew. Show opens May 11. Billboard, March 30, 1918, p. 65.
The Sig Sautelle Show opened at Newport, R.I. in May, and will play the New England States the balance of the season. The show is transported overland by trucks and trailers. Boss canvasman King gets the show on and off the lot in great shape. The roster: Sig Sautelle and Geo. A. Manchester, owners; Geo.H. Irving, assistant manager and treasurer; C. P. Farrington, general agent; Walter De Homer, equestrian director, and Jack Kelly, manager of the annex. In the big show are: The Lorellas, comedy acrobats; the De Homas, aerial and posturing acts; Seabury Family, jugglers and table drops; Al Johnson, comedy wire; Le Claire's ponies; Prof. Stone's mind reading dogs; Renaldos, bicyclists; Delliott Bros., Jones and June, clowns. Prof. Bragg's band furnishes the music. In the annex are Roberts' Mobile Minstrels, Marie De Vere, sword swallowing; Kelly, Punch and magic; Mrs. Kelly, snakes; Piccola's jazz band; five pits of animals; Fouster Sisters, oriental dancers; and J. H. (Doc) Barry, selling tickets. The "Cafe Sautelle" is presided over by the "Governor" himself. - Willie Walk. Billboard, August 3, 1918, p. 24.
It is learned that Sig Sautelle, veteran circus man, has decided to get into official harness again and has formed a partnership with Barney H. Demarest for putting out a circus and Wild West combined. The title will be Sig Sautelle's Circus and Demarest Bros.' Wild West Combined. Charles P. Farrington will be general agent. Billboard, December 7, 1918, p. 52.
Everything at Sig Sautelle's winter quarters at Lambertville, N.J., is getting in shape for the tour of the Sig Sautelle Circus and Demarest Bros. Wild West Combined next season. For the past few years Mr. Sautelle has not been active in the circus business, but for the coming season he has joined with Barney H. Demarest in putting out a railroad show, having come to the conclusion that by leasing his name, small attractions managers will in a few years kill the prestige and reputation that he has attained at the cost of brains, money and 40 years of experience. Billboard, December 28, 1918, p. 55.
• See Demarest's, 1918.
1919: (Sig Sautelle & Demarest Bros. Wild West)
Sig Sautelle's Circus. The show has just purchased three cars, a sleeper, a combination and a baggage car. This show is under contract with a well-known circus name for the winters of 1919 and 1920. Billboard, January 11, 1919, p. 28.
Newark, N.Y., Jan. 18. Barney Demarest is engaged at winter quarters of the Sig Sautelle Circus and Demarest Bros. Wild West Combined. Sig Sautelle purchased a combination sleeping and privilege car. Billboard, January 25, 1919, p. 69.
Lambertville, N.J., Feb. 15. The new tops for the Sig Sautelle Circus and Demarest Bros. Wild West Combined arrived at winter quarters. The big top is an eighty-foot round with two forty-foot middle pieces; the sideshow top is a forty, with 2 twenties; the horse top 30x60 and the dressing room 30x40. The headquarters has been transferred from Lambertville to Hillside Park, N.J. The railroad car Sig Sautelle recently bought from William Campbell has arrived. As a combination sleeping and privilege car, it has no equal. The company will be fred and have sleeping quarters on the car, no outside cook house being carried this season. Barney Demarest has engaged some splendid acts. [missing text] Mrs. Eva Irving will handle her five stallions in the liberty act; Annie Kernard, lady equestrian; George Kernard, of Providence, R.I., will be boss canvasman. "Oklahoma" Joe has been engaged as principal bucking horse and mule rider. Reta Davenport, lady bareback rider, will ride her pink skin stallion, Governor. Jessie Lee Nichols, equestrienne, who has been in the employ of Barney Demarest for the past four years, holds a contract for several years more, will ride her high school and high jumping horses. Lula Summerfield, equestrienne, will also be with the show. Wal. Biship, the past four years with John Werner's stallion act, will be equestrian director. Jim Gilbert, known as "Blackie," will be superintendent of ring stock. Frank Sturgis will be the new bandmaster. C. P. Farrington is general agent, his fifth year. Billboard, February 22, 1919, p. 76.
Robinson's Elephants with Oscar Lowande, wanted for the Sig Sautelle & Oscar Lowande New Big Show. Promoter, general agent, billposter, performers, clowns, animal acts of all kinds, eight or ten piece uniformed band, boss and canvasmen, light man, property men, cooks and waiters. For sideshow, a jazz or minstrel band, magic, Punch, freaks and living wonders. All privileges for sale. Address Oscar Lowande, Reading, Mass. [Advertisement] Billboard, March 29, 1919, p. 63.
New York, June 14. C. P. Farrington, general agent of the Sig Sautelle Circus, states that the show will close tonight at Suncook, N.H., and lay off for ten days, taking the road again under the management and direction of Bert Rutherford and himself. The reason for the abrupt termination is given as a mutual understanding to close on the part of the present owners, Sig Sautelle and Barney Demarest, they deciding that a two-car circus is a hard proposition to railroad at this time. Billboard, June 21, 1919, p. 84.
• More on the 1919 Sautelle & Demarest show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down.
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Sig Sautelle & Welsh Bros. - 1905 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1905
Sig Sautelle and John T. Welsh formed a partnership to conduct Sig. Sautelle's & Welsh Bros. Shows, at Lancaster, Pa., January 26, 1905. "Circus Changes of the Past," C. E. Duble, Note Sheet No. 5 (Circus Historical Society), November 16, 1942.
"Circus Changes of the Past," C. E. Duble, Note Sheet No. 5 (Circus Historical Society), November 16, 1942.
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Schell Bros. Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1929-1936
An article on the Schell Bros. Circus, George Engesser, owner, is online in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1979 (scroll down or use find).
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Schepp's - 1914, 1918 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1914
1914:
Schepp Bros.' Dog and Pony Show is now touring sunny California, playing the small towns. Charles W. Schepp is manager, while Col. D. P. Stone handles the advance. Billboard, April 11, 1914, p. 25.
Schepp Bros.' Dog and Pony Show. Always pleased to hear from good performers, musicians and working people, all departments. A clean little wagon show, touring California. Write Chas. W. and Grover Schepp, care Western States Vaudeville Ass'n., San Francisco, California. [Advertisement] Billboard, April 11, 1914, p. 25.
1915:
Louisville, Ky., March 28. Owing to ill health, F. Schepp, manager of the Famous Schepp Dog and Pony Show, has decided to withdraw from the show game, and is offering for sale his entire outfit. Billboard, April 3, 1915, p. 56.
Sacrifice sale, the Famous Schepp ponies, dogs, monks. Account broken health of trainer Schepp. Four ponies, two black and white spotted, one brown, one white; military drill, single specialties, talking pony, mathematical problems, menage act, praying, kissing, waltzing, and bucking number. Unridable pony; ten dogs, nine white, one Mexican, including acrobats, clowns, tumblers, waltzers, pick out national flages, colors, mathematics, somersaults, high divers and two bareback pony riders (white Spitz); four monks, each ride pony drill, doctor stunt, posing number, leap for life, etc. . . . All props, trunks, cages, trappings, etc., included. Bargain at $1,000. Address Mrs. F. Schepp, Crescent Avenue, Louisville, Ky. [Advertisement] Billboard, April 3, 1915, p. 58.
1918:
Schepp's Dog and Pony Show want two young men, exempt from the draft, to take care of the animals and props and learn the business. Address week August 12, Palmer, Mass.; week August 19, Springfield, Mass.; week August 26, Chicopeo, Mass.; September 2, Fair, North Adams, Mass. Headquarters, Crescent Hill, Louisville, Kentucky. [Advertisment] Billboard, August 17, 1918, p. 27.
Chas. W. Schepp, proprietor of Schepp's Dog and Pony Circus with the Bistany Bros. Attractions, also treasurer for that organization this season, has been acquitted for shooting a holdup man in the leg August 2, while the shows were playing an engagement at Marlboro, Mass. Billboard, October 5, 1918, p. 32.
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Schiedell Bros. - 1886-87, 1889, 1891
• 1886: Also see Gregory & Schiedell.
1886:
The following people are engaged thus far for the Schiedell Bros. Pavilion Show: Master Freddie Buskirk, Delmore Bros., Lotter and Cleary, Prof. Warwick and a band of six pieces. Schiedell Bros. will control the sideshow. New York Clipper, March 27, 1886, p. 20.
M. E. Ashton, late of Lee & Scribner's Pavilion Show, is general agent with Schiedell Bros.' Pavilion Show. Prof. Albert has the privileges. The show opens May 10. New York Clipper, April 24, 1886, p. 83.
Grand Rapids, Michigan. Gregory & Schiedel Bros.' Circus opens for four days. Their advance agent, Frank V. Cooper, had to do considerable hustling to secure suitable grounds, and finally had to go on the West side, which is a new stamping ground for tent shows. New York Clipper, July 10, 1886, p. 266.
1887:
Will W. Brown, magician, is engaged for 1887 with the Schiedell Bros.' Circus, which starts out from Detroit, Mich., soon. New York Clipper, May 7, 1887, p. 119.
C. W. Wilson joins the Schiedell Bros.' Show at Oscaloosa, Ia., Aug. 29. New York Clipper, August 27, 1887, p. 375.
1889: Harry Osborn, orator, joined the Schiedell Bros. Show at St. Paul, Minn. New York Clipper, September 28, 1889, p. 478.
1891:
Scheidell Bros. Salt Lake City, U. Jan 5-10. New York Clipper, January 3, 1891, p. 675.
Chas. Scheidell, of Scheidell Bros., is in the city [New York] fitting up his show. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
Attention, sideshow people. Wanted curiosities and freaks, also two good sideshow talkers that make strong openings. Address Schiedell Bros., Continental Hotel, ___ and Broadway, New York. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 343.
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Schiller's - 1890, 1904, 1907
1890:
Notes from Schiller's Show. The season opened at Kansas City, Mo., May 1(?), for four days. The following is the roster: R. F. Schiller, proprietor; John J. Holland(?), manager; Joe Robb(?), equestrian director . . . Dollie Gazelle . . . J. L. Thorpe, leader of band with ten musicians; . . . Bud Hyer, contracting agents; and Chas. Ryer(?), boss billposter with eight assistants. The show will travel by wagon, and carries ten cages, one ticket wagon, one ___ car, one band wagon and then property wagons, with two wagons and a buggy in advance. . . . The sideshow is managed by Prof. Eli, and the people are: Mongo Park, spotted boy; Miss Daniels, Circassian snake charmer, and the Eli Family, six in number. ___ and Wm. Mudd are the ticket sellers. New York Clipper, May 17, 1890, p. 155.
Schiller's Ten Cent Circus was billed for Clinton, Mo., June 14(?), but on account of a severe wind and rain storm the show could not give a perfromance. A dispatch from ___ says: "About forty of his laborers are suffering torture in not having enough food and clothing. Several are going around barefooted. His tent is at the show grounds torn to pieces. Mr. Schiller says he has no money, but is reported to be the proprietor of a large hotel at Sioux City, Ia. Entertainments were given __, to provide for the wants of the performers only, because the performers are left in a destitute condition. The town will probably provide for them. New York Clipper, June 28, 1890, p. 243.
Notes from Fulford & Co.'s New London Shows. . . . They have also purchased two more cages of animals from the Schiller Show which increases their menagerie to ten cages. . . . New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 357.
1904: M. S. McGrew, of Kansas City, Mo., last week purchased Harris' Nickle Plate Shows from Frank P. Hall, of Lancaster, Mo. Mr. McGrew purchased the show for Schiller Bros., of Kansas City, who will fit it up at Lancaster this winter and put it out next spring. Billboard, November 12, 1904, p. 17.
1907: Hudson, Iowa, July 30. Schiller Brothers' circus arrived in Hudson day before yesterday without enough hay to feed the elephant and as a result of swimming too long in a sea of financial difficulties the outfit was attached and is offered for sale. There was a look of amazement of every member of the tent gang Friday night when no order came to pull down tents and start on the road, and one of understanding when they were told that they could not be paid. There is an elephant, a lion and a tiger, monkeys. The horses were somewhat poor from overwork, and a few trick dogs looked hungry, but the show put on its daily performances. The outfit was formerly owned by Cook & Barret and met a similar fate while in Oelwein two years ago. This firm has previously purchased the show from William P. Hall for some twnety thousand dollars. They were not able to make things go financially, and were closed out by Hall. Waterloo Daily Times-Tribune (Waterloo, IA), July 31, 1907, p. 6.
• See Cook & Barrett Circus for more information on the Schiller Bros.
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Schiller Bros. & Orr's - 1901
Schiller Bros. & Orr's great united shows, at Logansport, May 16. Admission: adults, 25c; children under twelve, 15c. Logansport Pharos (Logansport, IN), May 14, 1901, .
Schiller Bros. & Orr's Great United Shows. This mammoth amusement institution embraces the grandest consolidation of the age, consisting of Schiller
Bros.' Great German Allied Shows in mighty union with Orr's Famous American Shows, consisting a combination of American and European attractions,
thus giving the public an opportunity of witnessing an up-to-date parformance, presenting the cream of the circus profession. The management have decided to reduce their prices of admission to popular prices, adults 25c; children under 12, 15c. This show will exhibit at Goshen May 21. Goshen Daily Democrat (Goshen, IN), May 20, 1901, p. 1.
Schiller Bros. & Orr's circus arrived from Elkhart at 5 o'clock this morning and quite a crowd of boys watched the unloading process. The L. S. & M. S. company received $43 for hauling the show from Elkhart to Goshen. It travels on seven cars. A fair sized crowd witnessed the Schiller Bros. & Orr circus parade this morning. The rain interfered with the procession which did not move until noon. Goshen Daily Democrat (Goshen, IN), May 21, 1901, p. 1.
Schiller Bros. & Orr's circus did not do a record breaking business in Goshen yesterday, due principally to the abominable weather. The show attracted a very small audience. The performance was the stereotyped cheap circus bill and was featureless. The fact that the circus had nearly all hired horses in the parade gave a bad advance impression. The total takings in Goshen hardly amounted to $25. Bill poster Charles Krutz had trouble getting money due him, but finally reached a compromise. The management pleaded for a reduction in the rental fee of the ground which was granted. For the next few days the people of Michigan will be relied upon to rescue the show from failure. Goshen Daily Democrat (Goshen, IN), May 22, 1901, p. 1.
What was left of Schiller Bros.' & Orr's circus was blown to pieces at Kalamazoo yesterday afternoon. The show is in hard luck. Goshen Daily Democrat (Goshen, IN), May 22, 1901, p. 1.
The Schiller Bros. & Orr's circus, billed to appear in Fort Wayne, failed to arrive. The circus encountered a severe storm at Vicksburg, Mich., on Wednesday and this partially destroyed the tent. This mishap, together with bad business in parts of Michigan, has prevented the circus from reaching Fort Wayne. Fort Wayne News (Fort Wayne, IN), June 28, 1901, p. 8.
Schiller Bros. & Orr's circus was blown to pieces for the second time this season at Vicksburg, Mich., Tuesday. Since the show left here late in
May it has played to poor business It was billed to exhibit in Kendallville yesterday but failed to put in an appearance. Goshen Daily Democrat (Goshen, IN), June 28, 1901, p. 1.
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Schmit's - 1960
Brief information on this show, Schmit family, owners, is online in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1961 (scroll down or use find).
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Schultz Novelty Circus
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1924.
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Schultz-Vallee
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, Wm. Schultz and Florian Vallee, proprietors, 1946-49.
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Schuman's Circus - 1884 (in Russia)
Charley Reed, in a letter to Chas. W. Fish, dated Moscow, Russia, March 22, says that he has been performing with Schuman's Circus for the past eighteen months, and they were located in the city of Moscow all Winter. His children are now learning to ride, the eldest daughter, May, being an attractive equestrienne. They are to leave for Stockholm, Sweden, May 1. Mr. Reed says that there are but few riders of any note in Russian, and he does not know of a single male bareback rider of any account. There are eleven lady equestriennes with Schuman's company. New York Clipper, May 3, 1884, p. 102.
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Scott's - 1890
Notes from Scott's Combined Shows. We opened a season at St. Marys, O., May __, the following being our roster: Chas. Braden, general manager . . . Frank Scott, equestrian director . . . Chas. Le Bar(?); Ed. Hakins; Jack Hendell; Harry Thayer; Frank Morton; W. Morton; Scottie Le Vard(?); Lulu May; Tom Delevanty and wife; Frank Reddy . . . Will Peters; Chas. Mitchell; E. McCullough; the Three Le Reve Bros.; and Prof. Randell's band of eight pieces. We travel by rail and have a 100ft. round top with a __ft. middle piece. New York Clipper, May 31, 1890, p. 183.
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Scott's Australian - 1887
Evansville, Indiana. Thos. Scott's Australian Dime Circus came unheralded for three days. Their experience through Tennessee and Kentucky had been neither pleasant nor profitable. New York Clipper, July 16, 1887, p. 277.
Evansville, Indiana. Thos. G. Scott's Australian Circus weathered their legal difficulties and opened at Mt. Vernon, Ind., July 19, to big business. New York Clipper, July 30, 1887, p. 307.
Thomas G. Scott, general manager of the Australian Dime Show, denies the report that they went to pieces in Indiana, but claims that they are still on the road and doing good business with these people: Millie Worland, Dillie Scott, Rennie Scott, Harry McDonald, Geo. Sloman, Chas. Morrison, Thos. Scott and Prof. Wilber's band of six pieces. Scott & Gorsage are the proprietors. The show now has a new ninety foot round top with two forty foot middle pieces. New York Clipper, August 6, 1887, p. 326.
Scott & Harrison's Australian Dime Show have been touring Illinois with fair success. The Vost Bros., three in number, joined the show at Belleville. New York Clipper, August 20, 1887, p. 356.
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Scott's Continental Circus - 1984, 1986
1984: Scott Taylor ran this show that played Ontario, Canada dated early in the year, and then changed its name to Taylor Family Shows for Ontario fairs in May and June. Bandwagon, January-February, 1985, p. 15.
1986: Scott Taylor's circus was out of Ontario, Canada. He had his dog and pony show at Canadian fairs during the summer. Bandwagon, January-February, 1987, p. 12.
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W. H. Scott's - 1901
Notes from the W. H. Scott's Big Shows. Mr. Scott has severed his connection with Mr. Burdick and puts the show out alone. He has enlarged the show, having purchased the entire outfit of the Louis Crescent Shows. The latest features added are the Two Mardos, the Three Lanos, and the Brodys (James and Kitty). Opening date, May 11, at Madison, Ohio. New York Clipper, May 11, 1901, p. 232.
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Scott & Fralando - 1889, 1890
1889:
The British American Circus will start out from Eau Claire, Wis., April __, for a tour of the Northwest, under the direction of E. F. Scott and Ed. Fralando. New York Clipper, March 16, 1889, p. 13.
1890:
Scott & Fralando's Australian Circus and Royal British Menagerie will begin their Northwestern travels early in May. New York Clipper, March 29, 1890, p. 46.
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Scribner & Clement's Circus - 1886-87
1886:
Scribner & Clements' Monster United Shows, fourth week of success, Sam A. Scribner and Robt. F. Clements, sole proprietors. Wanted at once, one band wagon, four light cages, one sleeper, two box, two stock, own flat and one combination car. Have one 80ft., on 60x90 and one 30x30 canvas for sale. Also want several more people. Address Scribner & Clements, Post-Express Printing Co., Rochester, N.Y. New York Clipper, August 21, 1886, p. 367.
1887:
Macon, Ga., Feb. 9. Last night, while the performance at Scribner & Clement's ten cent circus was about to draw to a close, the center pole of the main tent came crashing down. The pole had been broken before but had been spliced not very securely and last night as the gymnast was performing on the trapeze, the pole fell. A new pole was in position today. Atlanta Constitution (Atlana, GA), February 10, 1887, p. 2.
Scribner & Clements have closed their Southern season of eight months, and shipped their circus to Baltimore, Md. They open in Baltimore April 11. New York Clipper, February 12, 1887, pp. 756, 765.
Scribner & Clements have engaged the following people for 1887-88: Nelson Sinclair, equestrian director; Elmer and Loenhardt, bar performers; Gordon and Lick, musical clowns; La Martene, juggler; Master Bennie Scott and Nellie Adams, aerial artists; Harry Burns, contortionist; Austin, Daly and Nelson, brother act; Prof. Wilson and three performing ponies; Sisters Martinots, Roman ladders; Carlisle, high wire; Nellie, outside ascensionist and balancing trapeze. Concert people: Crawford Bros., Roy and Madison, May Crawford, James Welch and Ella Luzere. They are to hae a uniformed band of 11 pieces, H. R. James, leader; Winfield McGlaughlin [sic?], master of canvas; Robt. F. Clements, general agent. New York Clipper, March 12, 1887, p. 820.
Scribner & Clements items. Geo. H. Irving left for Boston May 16, and a sideshow will be the result in a few days. Carroll Bros. joined recently for the concert. Nelson Sinclair is breaking a troupe of dogs. Lew, Bobby and Goldie Carroll have joined Scribner & Clements' Circus for the season. New York Clipper, May 21, 1887, p. 151.
Wanted for Scribner & Clements' New Colossal Shows, No. 2. People of all kinds, including leapers, tumblers, skaters, bicyclists, aerial artists, double bar team, barrel dancers, rope and wire artists, two female gymnasts, song-and-dance team that can tumble, and other novelties. Address Nelson Sinclair, Manager No. 2 Co., American Hotel, Pittsburg, Pa. Wanted for No. 1 Co., barrel dancer and female gymnast. Scribner & Clements, same address. New York Clipper, July 9, 1887, p. 271.
Notes from Scribner & Clements' No. 1: Nellie Leonard closed at Pittsburg, Pa., on account of sickness, by which we lost a first-class aerial act. Geo. Jennier (barrel dance) and Louise Hernandez (dancing tight rope) joined at Johnstown, Pa., last week. While in Johnstown Mr. Scribner bought two English greyhounds and forwarded them on to the No. 2 show. New York Clipper, July 23, 1887, p. 290.
Notes from Scribner & Clements Circus. John Thorn, juggler, Albert Millette, general performer, joined Aug. 22. . . . Ben Elmer has at last succeeded in doing a double cutaway from the bars. The season closes Nov. 1, the show then going into Winter quarters in their new ring barn at East Liberty, Pa., and next season will be a twenty-five cent wagon show.New York Clipper, August 27, 1887, p. 375.
Following are among the most prominent engagements for Scribner & Clement's Circus: John F. Stowe, George Martin, Dick Howard, Gordon, Lavely, Alice Howard, McDonald, Dunham, Prof. Nelson and St. Clair's dog show. New York Clipper, December 24, 1887, p. 653.
Scribner & Clement's New Colossal Shows, Grand Family Museum and the New Wild West. Sam A. Scribner, sole manager; John F. Stowe, associate manager. Blanket-clad and war painted Indians and a cowboy band. Largest wagon show on earth. Wanted, performers in every branch of the circus business, concert and sideshow people of all kinds. Season opens April 23(?) at MeKeesport, Pa. Address Sam A. Scribner, Brookville, Pa. New York Clipper, December 24, 1887, p. 663.
• 1888: Sam A. Scribner announces the sale of his rights and title in the Scribner & Clement's Circus. New York Clipper, March 10, 1888, p. 839.
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Scribner & Co.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, J. M. Barry, manager, 1891.
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Scribner & Lee's - 1884
• See Lee & Scribner.
Scribner & Smith's Circus - 1891-94, 1896 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1892-96
1891:
Neil Smith was a Clipper caller Oct. ?. He is to join Sam A. Scribner in taking out a wagon show next season, opening early in May. New York Clipper, October 10, 1891, p. 518.
Sam A. Scribner and Ned Smith are already engaging people and arranging details for the tour of their show next season. . . . Scribner & Smith's Show will begin operations at Youngstown, O., April 30. New York Clipper, November 21, 1891, p. 616.
Scribner & Smith's All New Enormous United Shows, Sam A. Scribner & Neil Smith, proprietors and managers. Wanted, performers in all branches of circus business. A strong feature for big show and concert. Curios of all kinds. Concert people of every description. An experienced wagon show agent and a reliable boss canvasman and boss hostler. Address Scribner & Smith, __ Great Jones Street, New York City. Show opens at Youngstown, O., Saturday, April 30, 1892. New York Clipper, November 21, 1891, p. 627.
1892:
Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Sam Scribner is arranging to start a monster circus on wagons from Youngstown and Pittsburg early in April. New York Clipper, January 2, 1892, p. 716.
Scribner & Smith's Enormous United Shows. Now we want first class musicians for all kinds; six good billposters; four and six horse drivers, groms, canvasmen and boss property man; also one or two more good acts for big show. Address: Musicians, Thos. McGowan, __ Liberty Street, Pittsburg, Pa.; grooms and drivers, Jack Kent, Frenchtown, N.J.; billposters, J. R. Tucker, Canton, Bradford County, Pa.; all others Scribner & Smith, 108 Fourth Avenue, New York City. New York Clipper, January 16, 1892, p. 756.
George La Barre, formerly of the La Barre Bros., contortionists, has signed for the tenting season with Scribner & Smith's Show. New York Clipper, January 30, 1892, p. 779.
Prof. Parliman, solo cornettist, has signed with Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, February 6, 1892, p. 792.
Scribner & Smith have purchased the ring stock of the late Main & Sargent Show, consisting of two spotted trick horses, three Shetland ponies, two trick donkeys, a riding dog, a troupe of performing dogs, eighteeen draft horses and several wagons. The deal was made with William Main, who was the former owner. They have also closed their contract with their printers for their season's paper, and the first fifty days' paper is ready . . . Mr. Smith was at Pittsburg, Pa., last week, on business. New York Clipper, February 27, 1892, p. 843.
For sale, a troupe of well broke trick dogs, five Russian poodles and a greyhound. These dogs have been with Main & Sargent Show for past five years. Have also for sale a good band wagon. Address Sam A. Scribner, of Scribner & Smith, American Hotel, ___, Va. New York Clipper, February 27, 1892, p. 853.
Ed. and Jerome Abbey have secured the sideshow privileges with Scribner & Smith Circus. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
Wanted, a few more musicians, a female aerial act, and a single lady, to do two turns in concert. Scribner & Smith, Commercial Hotel, Youngstown, Ohio. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 111.
On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smiths . . . Niles OH May 2, Warren 3, Ravenna 4, Kent 5, Akron 6, Cuyahoga Falls 7. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 119.
Scribner & Smith's All New United Shows opened their season at Youngstown, O., April 30, and had packed tents both afternoon and evening. Their roster: Scribner & Smith, proprietors; Sam A. Scribner, manager; Neil Smith, treasurer; Henry Wright, ticket seller; Charles Cook, press agent; J. R. Tucker, general agent; Harry Howard, charge of brigade . . . C.(?) A. True, leader of band; Jack Kent, superintendent of lot(?); John Ward, master of canvas . . . John Holloway, charge of cook tent . . . Will Alexander; Durell and Austin . . . Smith Bros.; Jermoe Abbey . . . Alexander Bros. . . . George Martin and wife; Cook Bros.; Alice Sinclair; Sandres and Sandres . . . New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 130.
On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's, Ravenna OH May 4, Kent 5, Akron 6, Coyahoga Falls 7 . . . Canton 10, North Lawrence 11, Orrville 12, Ashland 13, Mansfield 14. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 135.
Wanted, trap drummer; song and dance team, serio comic, song and dance lady for the concert. Contracting agent, boss billposter. Scribner & Smith's All New United Shows, Address American Hotel, Pittsburg, Pa. Wanted, contracting agent, boss billposter. Address J. R.(?) Tucker, general agent. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 143.
Roster of Scribner & Smith's Show. . . . A. J. French, contracting agent; Chas. Rowell, master of paper, with five assistants; J. E. Garvey, lithographer, with one assistant . . . second brigade, four days in advance, Geo. W. Meyer and one assistant; two agent's buggies, one four horse bill wagon, one two horse paste wagon and one one horese wagon for second brigade. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 146.
On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith, Lawrence, OH May 11, Orrville 12, Ashland 13, Mansfield 14. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 151.
Wanted, for the sideshow with Scribner & Smith's All New United Shows. Man and wife to do mind reading and lecture. Also iron jawed man, a circassian, and one or two good female freaks. Address Scribner & Smith, American Hotel, Pittsburg, Pa. Jules Vernon, write. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 173.
Scribner & Smith's report. At last we have settled weather, and it finds our two enterprising young managers with a new sideshow canvas, two new horse tents, fifteen head of draft horses and several wagons added to our already fine outfit. The Erb Show stranded within six miles of us June 4(?). Our superintendent, Jack Kent, went on to see them, and came back with ten horses, four wagons, several sets of harness, etc. We have not missed a performance since we opened, although the roads have been fearful and the routes long. At Towanda, we gave three shows. We also have a kindly remembrance of the mountains of Pennsylvania, as we turned people away in several towns during heavy rain storms. We are now headed for the Hudson River. . . . We expect to be paddling our feet in the surf in three weeks. Mrs. Neil Smith and son, Eugene, were visitors last week. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 228.
Wanted, for Scribner & Smith's All New United Shows, double aerial act, one or two female ground acts, and other good circus acts. Address Scribner & Smith as per route: Hawley, Pa. June 18 . . . Deckertown, NJ 22, Newton 23, Waterloo 24, Dover 25, Boonston 27. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 239.
On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's, Dockertown NJ June 22, Newton 23, Waterloo 24 . . . New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 248.
On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's, Long Branch NJ July 6, Asbury Park 7, South Amboy 8, Perth Amboy 9, Stapleton S.I. 11, New Brighton 12, Port Richmond 13, Bergen Point NJ 14. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
Wanted, bill posters. Also boss bill posters to take paper. J. R. Tucker, agent, Scribner & Smith Shows, 108 Fourth Avenue, New York City. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 289.
Notes from Scribner & Smith's Show. Our business along the New Jersey coast has been exceptionally good. Harry Kernell was a visitor at Asbury Park. Manager Scribner purchased a very fine clown's turnout from Mr. Kernell, consisting of a tandem team of small donkeys, including harness and cart. Mr. Raymond and Mr. Otis, of the Hunting Show, were visitors at Long Branch. Neil Smith and J. R. Tucker are doing some fine advance work. We have not missed a show or a salary day this season. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's, Port Richmond, S.I. July 13, Bloomfield NJ 14, Mt. Claire 15 . . . Hackensack 18, Englewood 19, Nyack NY 20, Tarrytown 21. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
Wanted, for a long season south, good circus acts of all kinds; man or woman to do outside ascension, and a Spanish or skirt dancer for concert. Address Scribner & Smith's Circus, Salem, N.Y. Aug 19, Cambridge NY 20, Housic Falls N.Y. 22, Williamstown, Mass. 23, Adams, Mass. 24. New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 385.
Scribner & Smith's Circus closed a prosperous season Oct. 8(?). All connected with the show, including performers, musicians, canvasmen and grooms, were paid in full. They will winter about forty head of horses. The remainder were sold a auction 10. Jack Kent, superintendent, is already very busy making new stuff for next season. They will carry an eight cage menagerie, and promise everything new. New York Clipper, October 22, 1892, p. 522.
For sale. One 80ft. round top canvas, with a 40ft. middle piece. One __ft. dressing tent, new last Spring; one main entrance, new last Spring. All poles, ropes, stakes, flags, bale rings, reserve seats, curtains and carpets, etc., in good condition, for $250(?) cash. Addrss Scribner & Smith, 104(?) Fourth Avenue, New York. New York Clipper, October 22, 1892, p. 536.
Luke Rivers will do his "Pete Jenkins" act with Scribner & Smith's Circus next season. New York Clipper, November 12, 1892, p. 570.
Scribner & Smith's All New Enormous United Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie, Wild West, Royal Japanese Troupe, Arab Athletes, Elevated Stage and Free Horse Fair. Wanted, for season of 1893. Performers in every branch of the circus business, side show and concert people of every description, and a good Spanish or serpentine dancer. Address Scribner & Smith, __ Fourth Ave., New York City. New York Clipper, November 19, 1892, p. 596.
Everything in and about Scribner & Smith's winter quarters presents a busy appearance. New stuff is constantly arriving, and the management have purchased the majority of the Harper Bros.' outfit and several wagons from the C. J. Gregory Show. They have also secured a fine pair of black bears and a puma, which are now quartered at Central Park, New York. Several new wagons and a four horse bill wagon will be added to the show next season. Managers Scribner & Smith leave for an extended trip west early in December, and expect to visit the winter quarters of several shows in the West. The following people have already been engaged: . . . George Hartzell and wife, Luke Rivers, Elva Moran, Madalene, Holland and Burchine(?), Carl Hessel and F. H. Gross. New York Clipper, December 3, 1892, p. 624.
Scribner & Smith have purchased from the Walter L. Main Show several cages, an open den and a large tableaux wagon. The have also arranged with Mr. McAdam(?) for the use of an elephant for 1893. Their horses will be a special feature. New York Clipper, December 24, 1892, p. 670.
1893:
The Farnum Bros. and Josie Farnum have signed with Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, February 18, 1893, p. 800.
The advance brigade of Scribner & Smith's Circus will consist of Oscar Rahn, contracting agent; J. R. Tucker, advertising agent . . . Frank Randall, charge of stock . . . Wm. Pearsall . . . and Nat Daily, bill posters. The outfit will consist of two agent wagons, two bill wagons and a paste wagon. New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 832.
Scribner & Smith's All New United Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie, Japanese Troupe, Arabian Athletes and Free Horse Fair. Musicians wanted. Address Cecil A. True(?) Mineola, Long Island, N.Y. New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 842.
For sale, a one horse ticket wagon, new last Spring. Stationary(?) desk in front for manager. Ticket racks. Partition in centre. Reason for selling, too small. . . . Scribner & Smith, Mineola, Long Island, N.Y. New York Clipper, March 18, 1893, p. 27.
On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's, . . . Pittsfield NH May 3, Farmington 5, Rochester 6, Manford Me. 7, Saco 8 . . . Yarmouth 10. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
Eddie McDonald, contortionist, closed with the Guy Bros.' Minstrels, May 29 and on 30 joined Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, June 10, 1893, p. 217.
Jessie Boyd has signed with Scribner & Smith's Circus to sing in the concert. The management of the show report business still satisfactory. New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 264.
On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's . . . Columbia Falls Me. July 4 . . . Pembroke 6 . . . Red Branch 8. New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 265.
On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's . . . Pembroke Me. July 6, Eastport 7, Red Beach 8 . . . Danforth 13 . . . New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 281.
On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's . . . Amity Me. July 14 . . . Monticello 17 . . . Fort Fairfield 19 . . . Presque Isle 21, Ashland 22. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
Howard W. Durand and his little son, Dexter, are at their home at New Haven, having closed with Scribner & Smith's Circus. They have signed with the Oliver W. Wren Combination for next season. New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 312.
Wanted, 2 billposters and 1 lithographer. J. R. Tucker, agent, Scribner & Smith's Circus, Haverhill, N.H. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 391.
On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith . . . Bristol NH Aug 31, Franklin Falls Sep 1 . . . New London ?, Newport 5 . . . Charleston 7 . . . New York Clipper, September 2, 1893, p. 413.
On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith, Clar?mont N.H. Sept 6, Charleston 7, Walpole 8, Keene 9. New York Clipper, September 9, 1893, p. 428.
George S. Cole has closed with Sparks' Circus and accepted the position of special manager for Scribner & Smith's Show. New York Clipper, September 16, 1893, p. 447.
William Lowande is doing his bareback somersault act with Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, September 30, 1893, p. 483.
Scribner & Smith have opened their business office at No. 11 St. Marks Place, and are busy arranging for 1894. Jules(?) Jordan will be the treasurer next season, and Tony Lowanda, Martietta(?) Lowande, John Corriea . . . have been signed. Scribner & Smith shipped four horses to Havana, Cuba, Nov. __, to Tony Lowande's American Circus, to be broken for the different riding acts for 1894. New York Clipper, November 18, 1893, p. 595.
1894:
. . . Scribner & Smith's Circus . . . Geo. H. Gallagher will be the contracting agent, H. H. Sylvester of second brigade and stereopticon views . . . and Steve Vandeveer charge of stock. The advance will consist of three wagons, two buggies, eleven horses and twelve people. New York Clipper, January 20, 1894, p. 735.
Scribner & Smith's All New Enormous United Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie, Japanese Troupe, Arab Athletes and $15,000 Free Horse Fair. Wanted, circus acts of all kinds, boss canvas man, outside ascension and punch man for side show. Scribner & Smith, 110 Fourth Avenue, New York City. New York Clipper, January 20, 1894, p. 745.
The Leonard Sisters (Nellie and Flora) have signed with Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 752.
From Cole & Lockwood's Shows. . . . John Kent, of Scribner & Smith's Show, has been here five weeks, looking after the details of getting everything together. He goes back to Scribner & Smith Feb. 1. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 753.
Mrs. Nellie Scribner, wife of Sam A. Scribner, died Jan. 19(?), of consumption, in this city [New York]. The remains were taken to ___, Pa., for interment. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 753.
Roster of Scribner & Smith's Circus. Scribner & Smith, owners and managers . . . Ned Smith, accountant; Chas. McPhee, equestrian director . . . M. A. Lowry, concert leader; Jules Jordan, superintendent of reserve seat and concert tickets . . . George Abbott, superintendent of wardrobe; Sam A. Scribner and Neil Smith, big show door tenders . . . Robert Stickney, parade inspector; Joseph Zimmerman, superintendent of camp . . . George W. Gallagher, contracting agent; Henry Sylvester, charge of second brigade and stereopticon views; John R. Sylvester, collector for advertising programme . . . John Kent, general superintendent . . . Steve Vandeveer, charge of ring stock; George Hawkins, charge of baggage stock. . . . Frank Taylor, charge of properties; Geo. Simmons, charge of lights. Male performers: Tony Lowande, bareback, principal and four horse rider . . . Robert Stickney, ringmaster and trick horses, ponies and dogs; McPhee and Hill(?), triple bars and brother act . . . Geo. Hartzell, principal clown; R. Lee Metcalf, general clown . . . Adams and Lee, black face song and dance . . . John Hastings, strong man. Female performers: Josie(?) Marks, bareback, principal and carrying act; Mrs. Robt. Stickney, high school menage rider; Marretta Myers, swinging perch and rolling globe; Nellie and Flora Leonard, wire and single trapeze; Madelene, Egyptian juggler; Madame Harrison, secong sight; Mable Milton, long haired woman; Annie Winn, Circassian snake charmer . . . and Maud McPhee, serio comic. Musicians: Carl Hessel, Al. C. Sweet, Frank Whitlock, Thomas Rideout, M. A. Lowery, Jas. Call . . . August Peiffer and Frank Engle. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 801.
Eddie O'Dell, contortionist and acrobat, has signed with Scribner & Smith's Circus for the coming season. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 832.
R. Lee Metcalfer(?) writes that he has signed with the Scribner & Smith Show, and complains that his name was recently published in the roster of the Geo. W. Hall show. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 833.
W. G. Rollins, clarionettist and band leader, has signed with Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 5.
Notes from Scribner & Smith. We have purchased from Jas. A. Bailey the large performing elephant, ___, as a feature for our show the coming season, it being the largest elephant now in the country, and will be billed as the Giant Elephant. Our latest engagements include Willie O'Dale, somersault principal rider; Will and Emma Rydon, aerialists . . . Frank A. Rice and Sidney Burford. William Marks was obliged to cancel on account of the severe illness of his wife. Among the many callers at our business office the past few days were John Ringling, of the Ringling Bros.; Col. Giles Pullman, of the Pawnee Bill Show; Geo. Arlington, of the Barnum Show; Geo. W. Fursman, of the Reynolds Show; Geo. H. Irving, of the Cole & Lockwood Show; Chas. Griffin, of the Hunting Show; Tom Barry, of Albany, N.Y.; Robert Stickney, Willie O'Dale and our genial everyday friend, M. F. Gale. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 21.
Wm. La Rue, of the Three La Rue Bros., has signed for the coming season with Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, March 24, 1894, p. 37.
Fred Whillock, euphonium soloist, has been engaged with Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, March 24, 1894, p. 38.
Jules Jordan, German comedian, will join Scribner's Circus for this season. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68.
. . . Scribner & Smith's Circus . . . the show opens on Long Island. Jules Jordan, German comedian, will join Scribner's Circus for this season. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68.
Notes from Scribner & Smith's Show. Scribner & Smith's Circus opened their season at Freeport, L.I., April 21, under the most flattering auspices. In honor of the circus proprietors stores and business houses were closed, and the town donned holiday attire, flags and banners flying from nearly every corner. The seating capacity of the circus was inadequate to accommodate the audiences, and straw was spread over the ground around the ring bank, to prevent the soiling of clothes. The performance went off without a hitch or accident. The sideshow and museum, under the management of James D. Harrison, was one continuous jam of humanity from the time of opening the doors until the closing hour. Among the many professionals and others who visited the show were Wm. J. Doris; Wm. H. Platt, manager Columbia Wagon Co.; Mrs. Lillie Scott, John Keating, of Utica, N.Y.; E.(?) J. Holland, of the Rose Hill Co. . . . Elmer Gorham, of the "Blue Jeans" Co.; Frank H. Whitlock, Hornellsville, N.Y.; Mr. Babock, Barney Link, of the Buffalo Bill Co. . . . Robert Whitaker . . . Charley Herbert, Harry Greves . . . Fred De Bar, P. J. Kenyon, Mr. Jerome and wife, Phoebe McGuire, Fred Devine, John Corriea, Frank Hoffman, Willie Adair . . . The performance opened with the entry, and, as all the costumes were made of the finest plush, it was a beautiful night. The programme was as follows: Contortion act; Brazil, the wonderful elephant; flying rings and perch, principal riding act, clown songs, horizontal bars, juggling, double trapeze, riding and somersault dogs, four brother act, slack wire, performing midget donkeys, chair pyramids and table high vaulting, jockey riding and tumbling. Each and every performer acquitted him or herself grandly, and the tent rang with applause during the entire rendition of the programme. The show carries one hundred head of stock, six cages of animals, elephants, lions, tigers, etc. Twenty-six wagons and two passenger hacks, with four wagons in advance, and twelve billposters. The show travels by wagons. Sam A. Scribner and Neil Smith are sole owners and managers; Jack Kent, general superintendent; James H. Hubbard, treasurer; J. D. Harrison, manager sideshow and press agent; Carl Hessel(?), leader of band with twenty pieces; Fred Whitlock, leader of orchestra; Chas. McPhee, equestrian director; Chas. H. Waldron, general agent; and Geo. W. Gallagher, contracting agent. Everything with the show is brand new, all wagons, buggies, cages, etc., painted red and gilded with gold. The show will put in a long season. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 133.
Notes from Scribner & Smith's Circus. At Kingston, N.Y., May 7, a large crowd congregated on the lot and were clamoring for admission long before the parade went out. The doors and ticket wagon had to be closed in the evening at 7.45(?) o'clock, leaving people surrounding the tents with money in their hands. The side show gave fourteen performances during the day and it was a very few of the attaches who had time enough to get a bite to eat until the closing hour. Since opening day we have had only one accident, and that was occasioned by the breaking of a ladder on which Burchill(?) was doing his perch act, precipitating him to the ground, dislocating his knee. He is all right now and at work again. Contrary to the usual order of circuses, buying new cages, horses, etc., every(?) week, Scribner & Smith have had no occasion to purchase anything since opening day. Sam Scribner says: "The show his hooked up proper and needs no additions or alterations." Superintendent Jack Keat(Kent?) is kept busy shaking hands with old time friends, while Neil Smith is constantly busy with the pasteboards and counting coin. The business of the show since the opening day has been phenomenal and the weather has been one continual sunshine. The concert is a first class one and the orchestra, under Prof. Fred Whitbeck's(Whitback's?) direction, is a feature. Jules Jordan supplies the Clippers and in consequence is a much sought after man on Clipper day. No one is allowed to "sponge" a Clipper with this show under any circumstances. Twenty-five miles is the longest jump the show has made so far, and the roads have all been excellent. . . . J. D. Harrison is satisfactorily looking after the press, and, judging form the lengthy and complimentary notices the show is receiving, is filling the position satisfactorily. Otis(?) Yeager, solo contortionist, joined last week. New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 164.
1896:
Scribner & Smith have engaged the following staff: Geo. A. Cole, treasurer; Geo. W. Gallagher, general agent; Harry Mann, contracting agent; Jules Jordan, press agent; Jas. W. Beattie [Beattle?], privilege manager; Col. Geo. W. Wood, license adjuster; Al C. Sweet, bandmaster; Ed Guthrie, equestrian director; M. J. Haley, superintendent; Wm. H. Webb, boss canvasman, and Thos. O'Brian, boss hostler. The latest addition to the menagerie was a pair of baby lions. New York Clipper, February 8, 1896, p. 777.
Geo. W. Gallagher, general agent of Scribner & Smith's Circus, writes that C. K. White is contracting agent, with ten billposters. New York Clipper, July 18, 1896, p. 310.
Scribner and Smith's wagon circus stranded at Danvers, Mass., last week. The show had been laboring under hard luck down in Maine, and the owner of the property came on from Brooklyn and took his stock on account of failure to pay rental. New York Dramatic Mirror, October 3, 1896, p. 13.
• Samuel Scribner was a privilege man, ticket seller, ringmaster, agent, and finally one of the proprietors of a circus. Billboard, January 19, 1918, p. 29.
• A report is in circulation to the effect that Sam S. Scribner, general manager of the Columbia Burlesque Circuit, would be interested next season in a circus which would be put out under the Walter L. Main title. Mr. Scribner states: "No foundation to the story, am out of the circus business for good and all times." Billboard, September 7, 1918, p. 54.
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Seair's Animal Show - 1912-13 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1913
1912: Seair's Animal Show and Museum will take the road, season 1913, greatly enlarged and reconstructed. Several cages of rare animals have been added to the already large collection. The show is wintering at Reading, Pa. Billboard, December 21, 1912, p. 38.
1913: Seair's Animal Show & Museum - Charles R. Seair, proprietor and manager; William Hutchinson, assistant manager; Chas. R. Seair, treasurer; John Jones, general agent; Jas. Thomas, contracting press agent; Arthur Downes, sideshow manager; Jas. Tithe, equestrian director; C. R. Seair, superintendent privileges; Edw. Delp, superintendent reserved seat tickets; Charles Delp, superintendent canvas; John Smith, superintendent commissary department; John Kenney, superintendent lights and props; Edw. Lee, superintendent ring stock, working crew and stock; John Jones, manager advertising wagon. Show opens at Ephrata, Pa., May 15. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
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Seal Bros. - 1935 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1932-37, 1948-1950
The 1935 show covered 9 States, making 194 stops with thirty-nine in Kansas, fifteen in Missouri, twenty-eight in Montana, twenty-six in Nebraska, three in North Dakota, seven in Oklahoma, twenty-one in South Dakota, forty in Texas, and fifteen in Wyoming. Bandwagon, August 15, 1945, Vol. 4, No. 4, p. 6.
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F. H. Seery
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1902.
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Siegrist, Howe & Co. - 1884, 1886
• Siegrist, Howe & Co. is listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1884
1884:
The Siegrist, Howe & Co. Show is now composed of the following people: J. R. W. Hennessy, manager; Maj. O. W. Morris, assistant manager; J. H. Duffy, treasurer; Ed. Perry, ticket seller; James M. Ryan, equestrian director; Steve La VAll, advance agent . . . James Phillips, boss hostler. The company consists of James M. Ryan and Mlle. Theola, Juan D. Quamora, Billy Grace, Harry C. Holmes, Anna Worland, Frank Miers (band leader), T. A. Montague, H. Brimhall (orchestra leader), Louis Backus. The show celebrated its third consecutive season. The route lies through Texas and probably Mexico. Lew Cole and Mr. Beaumont are running the sideshow. James M. Ryan writes that the circus left St. Louis, Mo., and went by rail to Laredo, Texas, making its first stand there. . . . New York Clipper, December 27, 1884, p. 645.
1886:
Siegrist & Howe's Wild West collapsed at Cherry Vale, Kas., June 8. We are informed that everybody was "left" except the City marshal who came out about even. John Shields has taken some members of the party, and is showing under sidewall on the strength of Siegrist & Howe's billing. New York Clipper, June 19, 1886, p. 215.
• 1886: The Segrist, Howe & Co.'s New United Shows and Wild West traveled in Kansas in 1886. It claimed to have a ring performance with clowns, riders, gymnasts and tumblers in addition to a wild west of Mexicans, cowboys and Indians, under the direction of Capt. Stubbs. They gave a parade at 10 a.m., two performances daily, admission 25 cents. Bandwagon, January-February, 1990, Vol. 34, No. 1, pp. 52-53.
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Seibel Bros. - 1908, 1913-14, 1916 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1903-1916
1908: The 1908 Seibel Bros. Mammoth United Shows was a railroad show, playing Madison, Wisconsin, July 1 and 2. White Tops, November-December, 1948, Vol. 21, Nos. 11-12, p. 18.
1913: Seibel Bros.' United Shows, since opening the season at Watertown, Wis., the winter quarters, May 1, have been doing good business in spite of bad weather. The show this season is bigger than ever. Several new wagons were built In order to carry the extra amount of paraphernalia, and new cages were made for the added wild animals. The show carries 60 head of draft stock, 60 ponies (including a troupe of very small ponies used in a ring), 40 trained dogs, 8 trained monkeys, a number of bears and other native and tropical animals too numerous to mention. The show so far covered the lake shore cities and towns of Wisconsin and suburbs of Chicago. The show furnished the attractions for the Indiana Society of Chicago outing at Cedar Lake, Ind., June 21. Unfortunately it was a rainy day and a number of the big features were cancelled. The main show was given under an extensive pavilion. A. J. Himes is at his stand making good as juggler and plate spinner. This makes his fourth season with Mr. Seibel. Flying trapeze and Roman rings are done by the Schindler Bros. Prof. J. W. Cook is doing bis "real" Punch and Judy. The roster is as follows: Emil Seibel, manager; Ed. Seibel. assistant manager and treasurer; Prof. J. W. Cook, manager sideshow and menagerie; R. W. Thompson equestrian director; Al. J. Johnson, bandmaster; E. M.
Myer, boss props.; Gus Toepke, superintendent; Ben Hurr, boss ponyman; Al. Town, boss hostler; Charles Hardway, boss canvastnan; George Walrath, boss dogman; S. J. Monreau, chef; Dan Kelly, calliope player; J. L. Groat, official announcer. Billboard, July 5, 1913, p. 32.
1914: Seibel Bros.' Greater Shows closed their season at Watertown, Wisconsin, October 4, after a successful season around the Great Lakes in Northern Wisconsin. The boys all hade a fine duck and chicken dinner, with Doc Cook acting as toastmaster, before the departure. the line-up at the time of closing was as follows: Pony drill, handled by E. Meyers, ringmaster and trainer; Rooney, the monkey doctor; Prof. Edward's Arabian Stallion; Harry Blaschoff, juggler and contortionist; Flying Deloos, return act; Al. Hare, Spanish rings; Nemo and Bishop, revolving ladders; Ham and Harry, clowns, featuring the tango dance. Band, under the direction of Al Johnson (third season with this show), with Mr. Johnson, baritone; Gus Nelson, solo cornet; Marion Scizor, solo cornet; Hiram Colwell, first cornet; Dutch Nickols, bass player; Harry Atwood, snare drum; Thos. Reynolds, bass drum. Concert consisted of a tight-rope walking dog, snakes; Bischoff, magician, doing a comedy, and Lady Kiro, the monkey, looping the loop in an automobile. Annex, with its cages of wild animals, ponies (featuring Babe); Devolo, sword swallower, fire King, etc., was managed by Prof. Cook, the Punch and Judy man, who also made the openings and gave the free outdoor exhibition with his talking figures. This was Doc's second year with Seibel Bros. The big top was handled by Jim Gaffin, for many years with the big ones. Frank P. Presscott, general agent and contractor (with this show for two seasons); cookhouse managed by Chef Fred Giersdorf with two assistants, O'Neil and George; Ben, boss ponyman; Chadelier Dutch, lights; Ham and George, props; Jack Blair, candy butcher and privileges. Edw. Seibel some weeks ago was presented with a fob and K. P. charm by the members of the aggregation. Billboard, October 17, 1914, p. 23.
1916:
F. R. Gervers is now ahead of Seibel Bros.' Greater Shows as general agent, having signed with them on July 21 for the balance of this season and next year. The show, which is of twenty-five wagon size, will tour Wisconsin, Michigan and Minnesota until about October 1, when it will jump South for the winter. Two blowdowns were suffered in the past few weeks, and at Okauchee, Wisconsin, July 19, one of the tops almost caught fire when a barn near the lot was struck by lightning and burned to the ground. Billboard, August 12, 1916, p. 24.
For sale. The Seibel Bros.' Dog & Pony Show is for sale as it is. Would take Milwaukee or Chicago property in exchange. Perfer the former, or a good business proposition. Show consisting of 30 pones, 20 dogs and 24 horses, 5 mules, wagons, lights, seats, all paraphernalia, etc. Mrs. L. Seibel, care Schiltz Hotel, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Billboard, September 9, 1916, p. 23.
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Seils-Sterling - 1935-36
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1922-1938, 1944, 1947, 1975 (According to Parkinson, show was titled Sells-Sterling 1922-26.)
• The 1935 show covered nine states, making 185 stops with one in Alabama, fifteen in Arkansas, twenty-seven in Illinois, thirteen in Indiana, seven in Kent, six in Michigan, thirteen in Missouri, thirty in Tennessee, and seventy-three in Wisconsin. Bandwagon, August 15, 1945, Vol. 4, No. 4, pp. 6-7.
• 1936: Staff and route for the 1936 Seils-Sterling show is online in Bandwagon, February 1957 (scroll down).
• William F. Lindemann, former aerialist and one of the organizers of the Seils-Sterling Circus, died at Sheboygan, Wisconsin, February 20, 1949. From 1903 to 1920 he was an aerialist and tight rope walkers. He and his wife, Milly, performed with Yankee Robinson, Gollmar Bros., Sells-Floto, Coup & Lent and Hagenbeck-Wallace circuses. William, and his two younger brothers, Pete and Al, organized the Seils-Sterling Circus February 4, 1920. From four trucks and 12 people, the show grew to 66 motor vehicles and 350 people. In 1933 Al bought his brothers' interests and operated the show until 1938, when it was sold at auction. White Tops, March-April, 1949, Vol. 22, Nos. 3-4, p. 2.
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Selles Bros.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1948.
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Sello Bros.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, Roy Bible, proprietor, 1944-47.
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Sells Bros. - 1877, 1880-82 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1871-1895, 1962-63
Sells Brothers' Great European Show, now wintering in Topeka, Kansas, for the season of 1877, will have eighteen cages of animals, three tableau wagons - one drawn by elephants, one by ten camels, and one by sixteen Shetland ponies. The people at present engaged are Willis Cobb and troupe of educated dogs, goats and monkeys, Harry Codona, Charles Ewers, Willie Gaylord, J. L. Davenport and wife, Joel Davidson, little Willie Sells and Louis Heck's band of twelve musicians. The privileges will be run by Nick White and W. H. Gardner. New York Clipper, March 3, 1877, p. 391.
1880:
The Sells Brothers, four in number, will divide their circus interests this year into two parties. The big show goes East, under the name of Sells Brothers, and the other West as Welsh & Sands. The latter will be in Atchison week after next, and from here to Omaha for a tour of the Pacific country. Two members of the Coliseum band will accompany this party, Benjamin and Ruley, the former as leader of the brass band and orchestra. The Globe (Atchison, KS), March 29, 1880, n.p.n.
J. D. Henderson, who recently gave sleight of hand performances in our town and county, has hired to Sells Bros.' Circus and will travel with them during the season. Republic County Journal (Scandia, KS), April 10, 1880, n.p.n.
1881: See the article on the 1881 show online in Note Sheet (Circus Historical Society), September 1942.
1882:
Not long ago R. B. Smith, of North Rase, Wayne county, New York, conceived the idea of obtaining a number of camels in this Territory for Sells Bros.' circus, having ascertained that they could be secured more convenient and at less expense than if imported from their native country. Having made a satisfactory contract with Sells Bros., he came here not long ago and succeeded, with the assistance of Pantha, chief of the Navajos, in corraling nine camels about 40 miles from Gila Bend, at a cost to him of $50, and much finer specimens than are exhibited in the traveling menageries. [Gila Bend is in Arizona] Helena Independent (Helena, Montana Territory), January 16, 1882, p. 1.
A capture of wild Arizona camels has been made by Indians in the vicinity of Gila Bend. A car-load has been sent East. It consisted of seven large and two small camels, and was consigned to a circus manager of Kansas City. Ackley Enterprise (Ackley, IA), February 4, 1882, n.p.n.
Mr. H. Nelson French will travel with Sells Brothers Circus this summer as a member of the advertising corps. Miami Helmet (Piqua, OH), March 16, 1882, n.p.n.
• Also see the article on the Sells Bros. Circus, 1871-1895, with information on the Sells brothers, owners, online in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1964.
• Articles on the 1876-1880 Sells Bros. shows are in Bandwagon, July-August, 1988, Vol. 32, No. 4, pp. 31-43, and in Bandwagon, September-October, 1988, Vol. 32, No. 5, pp. 32-40.
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Sells & Barrett's Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1889-90
• Information on the 1890 Sells Bros. & S. H. Barrett's show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1991, Vol. 35, No. 3, pp. 40-48.
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Sells & Downs Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1902-1905
• 1902: Sells & Downs Circus train was wrecked by freight train at choctaw, Okla., Sept. 20, 1902. Two rear cars were completely demolished. Two show attaches were killed and others injured. Bandwagon, June, 1942,, Vol. 1, No. 8, p. 3.
• After the season of 1901, the property of the Sells & Gray show was sold to Martin J. Downs and became Sells & Downs, Willie Sells and Martin Downs, owners. Bandwagon, March-April, 1968, p. 19.
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Sells & Gray Shows - 1900-1901 (James H. Gray & Wm. Sells, owners) Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1900-01
1900:
Opened at Elwood, Indiana, May 5. Show was at Aurora, Indiana, May 12, and the Cincinnati contingent was present in force. Among the visitors were Dan R. Robinson and wife, Jas. Hamilton and wife, Rud Hynika, Chas. Arnold, Mike Mueller, Mrs. Nobby Clark and others. The weather was all that could be desired, but the show was not seen to the best advantage. An accident to one of the cars had spilled a lot of stringers, only four of which had been recovered, and the accident, coupled with extremely bad weather for four days previous, had resulted in many of the workingmen deserting. As a consequence they were slow in getting up. Barnum has the canvas.
To the Editor of "The Billboard:" Dear Sir - In the last issue of "The Billboard" you had among the features of the Lemen Bros.' Show, Edna, the champion lady somersault rider of the world. You will please make the correction that she is not with Lemen Bros., but is the principal feature of the William Sells & Gray's Circus, doing her act twice daily. . . . Yours truly, E. L. Brannan, Gen'l Agt. Sells & Gray Shows. Billboard, June 16, 1900.
Sells-Gray Shows added twelve very fine horses at Pekin, Ill. Mr. Sells is now looking for an elephant and two camels. The L. & N. held up the Sells-Gray train at Louisville, and after stopping it, put a hundred men at work on it. They equipped it with air, Janney couplers, and overhauled it generally. It was expensive, but the proprietors are glad it occurred. The Sells-Gray Shows play Middleboro, Ky., July 4. They get lot and license free. Billboard, June 23, 1900, p. 5.
• Information on the 1900 Sells & Gray show is in Bandwagon, November-December, 2000, Vol. 44, No. 6, p. 11-12.
1901:
Sells & Gray notes. After a successful season of thirty-four weeks the Wm. Sells and Jas. H. Gray's United Shows are now comfortably housed in commodious Winter quarters at Savanah, Ga. The show closed at Miami,Fla, Thursday, Dec. 27. One of the pleasant incidents of the last day was the presentation of a diamond ring to Warren A. Patrick, treasurer, the members of the entire show having a share in showing this mark of appreciation. The trip to Key West was fraught with never to be forgotten memories, and one can readily imagine the volume of business when it is known that the inhabitants of the island had never before seen an elephant on their shores. Active preparations for the coming season have commenced at the Winter quarters, and the show will be brand new all the way through when the band plays for the first time next Spring. The management will spare no pains or expense to make the organization one of the best of its calibre in the country. Several new features will be introduced and the ring show will be especially good. Among those now booked are: the Earl Sisters, Miss Edna, lady equestrienne; Delavoye and Fritz, . . . Patrick B. Kelly, Holmen Bros. and the Milvos(?). New York Clipper, January 19, 1901, p. 1046.
Sells & Gray Circus was sold at sheriff's sale January 8, 1902 at Algiers, La., and brought $5,025. Horses previously sold for $2,600. "Circus Changes of the Past," C. E. Duble, Note Sheet No. 5 (Circus Historical Society), November 16, 1942.
Sells & Gray - 1960-62, 1974-75 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1960-1978
Article on the 1962 Sells & Gray show is online in Bandwagon, Jul-Aug 1962 (scroll down or use find).
1974: The Sells & Gray Circus closed their 1974 season at DeLand, Florida, October 27, total mileage 12,983. Southern Sawdust, November, 1974, p. 7.
1975: With the show were: Harry Hammond, office manager; Jon Friday, ringmaster; Ted Svertesky, elephants; Great Moises and wife; Evy and Ed Karoly, riders; Sampion Zurani, juggling, and wife Marie France, dog act. Southern Sawdust, No. 85, November, 1975, p. 27.
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Floto Shows (Otto Floto Dog & Pony Show, Great Floto Show
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1902-1905
• An article on the early Otto Floto Show, 1902-1905, the origin of the later Sells-Floto Show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1972, pp. 4-10.
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Sells-Floto - 1909, 1912, 1914, 1917-19 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1906-1920
• An article on the Sells-Floto Circus, 1906-1910 is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1974, Vol. 18, No. 4, pp. 4-13.
1909: Sells-Floto Show. H. H. Tammen and F. G. Bonfils, props.; W. E. Franklin, gen. mgr.; Harry Earl, gen. agt.; Edward C. Warner, R. R. contractor; D. F. Lynch, local contractor; George Cho??in and Garnett Smith, special agts.; Charles Hill, press agt.; Millard Coxey, contract press agt.; Jack Manley, mgr. side show; W. B. Menefee, adv. inspector; Fred Shafer, supt. of wardrobe; W. E. Haines and Seves Beckett, twenty-four-hour men; Willford Embleton, supt. of lights; L. H. Heckman, supt. No. 1 Advertising Car; Park B. Prentiss, bandmaster; W. W. Parmlee, elephant banners; Col. Frank Robertson, treas.; Rhoda Royal, equestrian dir.; T. J. Eilson, mgr. commissary dept. George Brown, supt. of transportation; W. H. Curtis, supt. of canvas; Chris Zeitz, supt. of animals; F. C. Alispaw, supt. of elephants; C. H. Gilbertson, supt. of privileges; Dick Terhune (Terhume?), supt. of stock; Jim Clough, supt. of ring stock; J. D. Miller, supt. of props; Fred J. Warrell, adjuster; Arthur Bennett, press agt. with show; William O'Day, supt. side show canvas; Dave Jerrett, supt. of No. 2 Advertising Car No. 1; I. M. Southern, official program. Complete roster, Advertising Forces: Advertising Car No. 1: L. H. Heckman, Agent; Walter Ray, F. A. Kelzer, Frank Brusso, C.(?) W. Sampson, H. E. Huber, F. L. Northup, ? M. Richards, J. F. Dotson, A. J. McDonough, W. Bernhardt, A. C. Turrell, E. Perkins, W. J. Whitton, J. White, C. R. Abbott, C. Anderson, C. O. Tinsley, O.Essenger, Frank O'Hara, R. McCurdy, E. Thomas, G.(C.?) Brudbaker, C. P. House and W. S. Hoover. Advertising Car No. 2: David J. Jarrett, Agent; C. S. Wright, James Quirk, Wm. Guckiean, C. W. Anderson, F. H. Pollock, John Jarrett, A. C. Klopman, J. Towser, J. E. Gilmore, Wm. Blake, L. B. Whistler, M. L. Sullivan, E. A. McKeand, F. McKeand, Ed. Jones, C. Proctor, Wm. Morehead, Jack Burton, F. Dixon, F. Wagner. Opposition Brigades: Geo. J. Choffin, Agent; Ed. Bluskei, Walter Nisson, H. Forquhar, C. E. Mikesells, H. Holland, Wm. G?chter, J. F. Robertson, Henry Moss, A. E. Herbst. Special Utility Agents: F. F. Smith, W. J. Bauer, "Pop" Mckinney. Billboard, March 20, 1909, pp. 80-81.
• An article on the Sells-Floto Circus, 1911-1913 is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1975, Vol. 19, No. 4, pp. 4-12.
1912:
Horace Webb, clown, has been re-engaged with the Sells-Floto Circus for 1912, his third season with the show. Besides producing his burlesque airship, Webb will put on his new cannon gag. Billboard, November 25, 1911, p. 27.
Sells-Floto Show - H. H. Tammen and F. E. Bonfils, props.; Fred B. Hutchinson, mgr.; Vay Hampton, treas. and auditor; Ed. C. Warner, general agent and railroad contractor; Walter Murphy and Wm. E. Haines, local contractors; Al. Butler and Chas C. Case, special agents; Arthur Bennett, contracting and general press agent; Field Carmichael, press agent back with show; Ed. C. Warner, excursion agent; Al. Conlon, mgr. side show; Rhoda Royal, equestrian director; Henry Gilbertson, general supt. and supt. privileges; Walter English, musical director; Harry Lay, supt. reserved seat tickets; Bill Curtis, supt. canvas; George Brown, trainmaster; George Stumpf, boss hostler; Dixie Engle, supt. commissary dept.; Wm. Embleton, supt. lights; Charlie Brady, supt. properties; Eli Meiser, supt. ring stock; George Stumpf, supt. stock; Wm. Curtis, supt. working crew; James McElroy and Jack Beck, twenty-four hour agents; F. C. Alispaw, supt. elephants; Ed. Hopkins, boss carpenter; F. C. Alispaw, supt. animals; A. B. Anderson, blacksmith; Harry Graham, mgr. advertising car No. 1; Fred McMann, mgr. advertsing car No. 3; W. R. Menefee(?), checker-up; James Dwyer, legal adjuster; John McCullah, announcer. Show opens at Albuquerque, N. M., March 30. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
H. H. Tammen writes from Denver, May 9: ". . . The big event was the birth of a baby elephant, which we have named 'Little Hutch.' It occurred April 26, at San Francisco, Cal. Our San Francisco engagement was the largest ever played, I bellieve, by any circus that ever visited here, all of which was due, of course, to the exploitation of the baby elephant. . . . side show and menagerie, which is a 110 round top with three forties . . . I don't think it has ever been recorded where a circus tent of 160, with three fifties, eighteen tiers high and reserves fourteen, with 700 extra chairs in from of the reserves, and then on the hippodrome track, was filled this way. The first ten days of the season we had bad weather, but ever since the weather has been good, and especially since the birth of the elephant we have done an enormous business. The only reason why we are not doing more is because our circus, as well as nearly every other circus, has advertised baby elephants, and now it is a hard matter to get people to believe this is real, all of which proves that when a man has been a liar for five years, if he does tell the truth people don't believe him, so if there is any moral to this it is to tell the truth at all events, and when you haven't any truth to tell, hide. . . . H. H. Tammen. . . . [show had] three rings and two stages. . ." New York Clipper, May 18, 1912, p. 16.
Sells-Floto Circus train caught on fire Wednesday night, June 5, fifty miles East of the Dalles, en route to Pendleton, Oregon. For a time the destruction of the entire circus train threatened. To save it a stock car containing sixteen draft and eight ring horses was cut out. The car and horses were destroyed. The famous baby elephant born with Sells-Floto Shows, at Salinas, Cal., April 25, died at Pendleton, Oregon, June 6. The loss is a severe one to the management. The birth of this elephant startled the scientific world. Everything was done to keep it alive. With the birth of the elephant the Sells-Floto business took on enourmous proportions. New York Clipper, June 15, 1912, p. 11.
1914: Sells-Floto-Buffalo Bill (Himself) Shows - F. G. Bonfils and H. H. Tammen, proprietors; Fred Bailey Hutchinson, manager; Henry Gilbertson, assistant manager; Joe Wilson, treasurer; Vay Hampton, auditor; L. C. Warner, general agent; Harold Bushea, railroad contractor; Bill Haines, local contractor; Al Butler, special agent; major John M. Burke, story man; Courtney Ryley Cooper, advance press agent; Eddie Jackson, press agent back with show; H. Bushea, excursion agent; W. P. Campbell, No. 1 sideshow manager; Tom Moore, No. 2 sideshow manager; Rhoda Royal, equestrian director; Bill Curtis, general superintendent; Henry Gilbertson, superintendent privileges; Karl L. King, musical director; W. B. Menefee, superintendent reserved seat tickets; Wm. Curtis, superintendent canvas; Geo. Brown, trainmaster; Geo. Stumpf, boss hostler; Dixie Engel, superintendent commissary department; G. W. Embleton, superintendent lights; Chas. Luckey, superintendent props; Elias Meister, superintendent ring stock; Geo. Stumpf, superintendent stock; Wm. Curtis, superintendent working crew; Jack Beck and Jimmie McElroy, 24-hour agents; F. C. Alispaw, superintendent elephants; J. Shaw, boss carpenter; Shorty Alispaw, superintendent animals; Wm. Anderson, blacksmith; Harry Graham, manager adv. car No. 1; Fred McMann, manager adv. car No. 2; Murry Pennock, manager adv. car No. 3; Geo. Roddy, checker-up; Jas. Dwyer, legal adjuster; Harry Clarens, announcer. Show opens at Albuquerque, N. M., March 28. Billboard, March 28, 1914.
• An article on the Sells-Floto Circus, 1914-1915 is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1975, Vol. 19, No. 6, pp. 22-29.
1917: Sells-Floto Show - The Champion Shows Co., H. B. Gentry, pres., prop.; H. B. Henry, controlling mgr.; James Dwyer, asst. mgr.; H. C. Bruner, treas.; L. E. Mitchell, auditor; Ed C. Warner, gen. agt. and railroad contractor; H. S. Rowe, local contractor; L. R. Mitchell, special agt.; Al Butler, contracting press agt.; Frank Braden and Beverly White, advance press agts.; Bert Chipman, press agt. with show; Ed C. Warner, excursion agt.; W. F. Palmer (Doc), mgr. side-show; Rhoda Royal, equestrian dir.; John Etle, gen. supt.; J. W. Brandon (Happy), supt. privileges; C. L. Brown, musical dir.; Fred Morrison, supt. reserved seat tickets; John Eberle, supt. canvas; Jim Williams, trainmaster; Jack Bigger, asst. trainmaster; George Stumpf, boss hostler; Tod Frye, supt. commissary dept.; G. W. Embleton, supt. lights; Chas. Luckey, supt. props.; John Clark (Knobby), supt. ring stock; Geo. Stumpf, supt. stock; John Eberle, supt. working crew; James McElroy and U. L. Jolly, 24-hour agt.; F. C. Alispaw, supt. elephants; Wm. Ault, boss carpenter; F. C. Alispaw, supt. animals; Wm. Anderson, blacksmith; Fred C. McMann, mgr. adv. car No. 1; George S. Roddy, mgr. adv. car No. 3; Ona Dempster, checker-up; James Dwyer, legal adjuster; Bert Chipman, announcer; forty-two cars. Show opens at Wichita, Kan., April 28. Billboard, March 24, 1917, pp. 141, 143.
• An article on the Sells-Floto Circus, 1916-1918 is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1976, Vol. 20, No. 3, pp. 4-12.
1918:
Denver, Col., Jan. 5. The Sells-Floto aggregation, is in winter quarters in Denver, general manager, Henry B. Gentry. The greatest question at the present time is the railroad facilities, on account of war conditions. . . . Fred O. Stewart, who was with the circus last season, will work in winter quarters during the next few weeks. "Curly," as he is nicknamed on account of his kinky locks, has been soliciting for a farming journal in Texas. W. E. Wells has taken charge of the pony stable, teaching some new stunts to his "pupils." Harry Bayfield, who was one of the forty clowns, was here for a short time, en route from Hot Springs, Ark., to Los Angeles, where he will enter vaudeville for a few weeks at least. J. Fred Neill, who was on the shows during the past season, has landed a good position in a bank at Bloomington, Ind. Todd Fry, who was in charge of the cookhouse, is in Denver, a night clerk at the Colorado. Don Montgomery, superintendent of tickets last season, is in Chicago. He and Al Sweet are putting out a big musical comedy for vaudeville. - Eddie Deck. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 28.
Denver, Col., Jan. 11. The Sells-Floto Circus announce that the circus would tour the Pacific Coast during the 1918 season, after an absence of one year, when it toured the East. John Eberle is superintendent of the quarters. Henry Boucher, who has succeeded Fred Alispaw as animal trainer, has constructed a new training ring, and is breaking in a number of new acts with the elephants, some of the ponies, dogs and monkeys. Nobby Clark, at Overland Park, is training horses. George Stumpf is looking after the stock. "Doc" Palmer, who managed the pit shows last year, will again be in charge this season. He will have several new freaks and curiosities and retain the attractions of last year, known as the two-headed Mexican. General manager Henry B. Gentry says when the circus "takes to the trail" early in April, it will be known as The Circus Beautiful, with all new features. John Defrain, known last season as "Williamsport," because he came from the Pennsylvania town, has quit circus life for the time being, and is now one of the Sammies. He is in camp near herr, and is a daily visitor. Prof. C. L. Brown, who had the circus bands last season, has been re-engaged, and will have a concert band of thirty pieces. Charles Luckey is at winter quarters, overseeing the work in the wagon shop. Superintendent Eberle has engaged George Bagley as his assistant at the quarters. - Eddie Deck. Billboard, January 19, 1918, p. 28.
Toto, the frog contortionist, goes back with the Sells-Floto Circus this year. After closing with the show at Wichita Falls, Tex., he went to Chicago, where he played a four weeks' engagement with the Rhoda Royal Circus at the Boston Store. Toto says hello to the other "frogs" who were with him on the Floto Show, Ken Plamer and Lew Hershey. Billboard, January 19, 1918, p. 29.
Sells-Floto Circus. Denver, Col., Jan. 19. Fred Morgan has been engaged as general agent of the shows for the season. John Ernst and George Novikofp and their wives, known as the Loretta Twins, are now located in their winter home in Denver. The Denver Post is well represented with Sells-Floto Circus people this winter. Andrew Carty, road treasurer; Myer Schlom, ticket seller; John Ernst, performer, and E. W. Deck, press agent and ticket taker back with the circus last season, all have positions on the paper. A letter has been received from Kent Carter, one of the ticket takers on the circus for two months early in the season and private secretary to general manager Henry B. Gentry. Carter, a resident of Bloomington, Ind., is now with the Sammies in France. - Eddie Deck. Billboard, January 26, 1918, p. 71.
Denver, Col., Jan. 25. At the Sells-Floto winter quarters many workmen are busy. John Eberle, superintendent of quarters, announces that all of the parade wagons are now in the painting department, where at least half of them have been newly decorated. This work in in charge of Fred Stewart and Don Conway, both of whom have been with general manager H. B. Genry for many years. The wagons will all be in decorations of red, white and blue, with silver and gold trimmings. Frank Gentry, brother of the general manager, is now general superintendent of all the work in progress. Henry Boucher has new tricks he is teaching to members of monkeyland, and William Wells is putting several groups of Shetland ponies thru their feature acts. Allen Suits, harness maker with the shows last season, is in Paris, Tex., for the winter. William Barton has arrived, and is now assistant to Charles Lucky at winter quarters. Charles Jackson, who was assistant to trainer Churchill during last season, has enlisted in the army. B. B. Bonney is again in winter quarters, and will go out with the S-F again. G. W. Embleton is located in Chicago. William Sobule, one of the reserved seat ticket sellers with the shows last season, is in the theatrical managerial field in Denver, assistant manager of the Empress. Chef Edw. Brown has things cooked up for his dozens of winter boarders. . . . Eddie Deck. Billy Murray has been re-engaged as ticket seller on the sideshow with Sells-Floto for the coming tour. Billboard, February 2, 1918, p. 31.
Denver, Col., Feb. 2. Prof. C. L. Brown has the contract for the band again with Sells-Floto Circus. Prof. Brown is now en route at the head of Brown's Saxophone Six, doing vaudeville. "Shanty," (G. W. Embleton), superintendent of lights, is spending the winter in Chicago. Edward Elliott, on the shows part of last season, has landed a position at the Oklah Theater in Bartlesville, Ok., the only one-handed trap drummer now in the States. The Loretta Twins, a feature last season, are in vaudeville. Joseph (Happy) Brandon is getting his forces of "butchers" together again, and if he does not go out with Uncle Sam's troops, he will again superintend the sales of the big goobers, red lemonade and popcorn. Myer Schlom has added new dogs to be taken out with the shows. Fred E. Morrison, auditor of tickets on the main entrance of the big top for several seasons, is at his home in Kansas City. . . . Billboard, February 9, 1918, p. 30.
Denver, Col., Feb. 9. Sells-Floto Circus. Henry B. Gentry, general manager, secured a talking monkey to be added to the amusements. "Doc" Palmer, who had charge of the pit shows last season, will again be with the cicus. Leslie Stevenson, ticket seller last season, is now in Uncle Sam's army. Duke Mills, who had charge of the sideshow No. 2, is in San Antonio, a time keeper for a large concern. Mr. Hoyt, 25 years old, a candy butcher last season, who had been ill with lung trouble, succumbed to the disease here last week. Pallbearer were his former associates with the circus, Leo Hamilton, Joseph Brandon, Bobbie Worth and Fred Stewart. Leo Hamilton arrived last week and is instructing a number of the canine family in new acts. Willie Wells is turning a similar trick at the training quarters of the ponies. Nobby Clark is busy putting the horses thru new stunts. . . . Eddie Deck. Billboard, February 16, 1918, p. 30.
Denver, Col., Feb. 23. Sells-Floto Circus . . . Joseph "Happy" Brandon has returned and will again be in charge of the refreshment concessions. Steve J. Henry, banner man most of last season, now has a traveling position in the East. Jack Bigger, trainmaster, is with the Denver Post Coal Company. Albert Sayler, with one of the pit shows last season, will enter a new rold this season as one of the joeys. Minnie Thompson will been seen with the show again, putting the elephants thru some new turns. Dick Farmun, car porter last season, has joined the reserved seat ticket selling crew. - Eddie Deck. Charles E. Duble and John J. Ruff, trombonists, will take the road with C. L. Brown's band on the Sells-Floto Circus. W. B. McGinnis will be on the No. 1 car of the Sells-Floto Circus. Billboard, March 2, 1918, pp. 28, 29, 33.
Sells-Floto Circus opening date is set for April 6 at Albuquerque, N.M., where the show has inaugurated its tour for a number of years past. One of the features will be Pietro. While acts are going on in the rings, Pietro will be shackled by local policemen and put in a strait jacket. Then he will be raised to the top of the tent, whirled around like a butterfly act, and it is announced that in less than half a minute he will release himself from the jacket. The parade will be a treat to the eye. The menagerie has been strengthened by the addition of polar bears and other animals. When the show reaches San Bernardino, Colossus, the giant gorilla, which was shown in Los Angeles under the name of Fuller, will be added. Henry B. Gentry, president and general manager; Fred W. Morgan, general traffic agent, and W. E. Wells, ringmaster. Prof. C. L. Brown and his Grand Military Band of twenty-eight pieces, will again be with the Sells-Floto Circus this season. A few of the musicians already booked: Vic Graham, euphonium soloist; C. E. Duble, Fred Ellis, E. E. Nickerson, Frank Camp, Clate Alexander and John Ruff. Harry D. Bachman goes with the Sells-Floto Show this year (probably in clown alley). Billboard, March 16, 1918, pp. 28, 29.
Ida and Stella Delno (sisters) are working vaudeville on their way to Denver to open with Sells-Floto. Billboard, March 23, 1918, p. 66.
The trains of Sells-Floto Circus are scheduled to leave Denver April 1, going direct to Albuquerque, N.M., where the first performance of the season will be given April 6. From Albuquerque the circus will go to El Paso, Tex. for April 8; Las Cruces, N.M., 9; Silver City 10; Deming 11; Douglas, Ariz. 12; Bisbee 13; Miami 15; Globe 16; Stafford 17; Tucson 18; Phoenix 19; Yuma 20. Following Yuma the show will jump into California, its first stop at El Centro April 22, followed by San Bernardino 23; Riverside 24; Pomona 25; Anaheim 26; San Diego 27; Pomona 25; Anaheim 26; San Diego 27; Santa Ana 29; Long Beach 30; Whittier May 1, and Los Angeles 2, 3 and 4. Billboard, March 30, 1918, p. 28.
Sells-Floto Circus . . . William Wells, last season with Barnum, is equestrian director, with Lee Johnson as assistant. Prof. C. L. Brown again has the band with thirty-six musicians. Henry Boucher is chief animal trainer and superintendent of the menagerie. Frank Carley is again in the wagon, and Mrs. Smith has the wardrobe, and all is under the direction of Henry Gentry, assisted by his brother, Frank Gentry. Among the leading features are the Hodgini Troupe, Herbert Beeson, The Delnos, The Cornallas, catapult act; The Hobsons, George Cole and troupe, Sweeney and Newton, Toto the Frog, the Kincade Troupe, The Luckeys, Hilders, Freddie Biggs, Laverne and Company, Les Legarts, the Branchard Family, the Boyers and others. Minnie Thompson presents the elephant act. The clown contingent includes Andrews, Brashman, Burr, Reese, Chester, Dayton, Dearth, Jack Harris, Lindsay, Marr, Happy Wells, Shesk and dog, Wright, Vaugh and White and others. Frank Brown succeeds Geroge Stumpf as boss hostler. Colonel Luckey has charge of properties, with John Eberle in charge of canvas. Happy Brandon is chief of concessions and the sideshows are in the hands of Dr. Palmer. Billboard, April 13, 1918, p. 60.
Sells-Floto No. 3 car crew: Patsy Gallagher, car manager; Charles Campbell, secretary; Walter Mische, boss billposter and steward; Willis Rusby, Kenneth Corbett, Harry Ryan, George Sandell, Robert Harrison, Charles Doolin, billposters; Johnnie McDonald, George Bramer, lithographers; Alva Berlin, programmer. Billboard, April 27, 1918, p. 30.
The Sells-Floto Circus. At Las Cruces, N.M. and Silver City there were only small audiences. On April 12, scheduled for Douglas, Ariz., a long trestle had burned just before the train reached a distance of about five miles from that city, and as a result there were no performances that day. Bebee was canceled and Douglas played on the 13th. The shows were billed for Safford, but bad luck again. The town was quarantined on account of smallpox. Billboard, May 4, 1918, p. 70.
The Sells-Floto Circus has been doing average spring business. The Coffee Club is the latest organization formed on the show. Mrs. Lucky, Mrs. Delno, Emma Cornelia, Minnie Thompson and Mrs. Blanche Wells comprise the roster. The Knitting Club is composed of Mrs. Lucky, Miss Cornella, Mrs. Delno, Miss Thompson, Mrs. Wells, Mrs. Hidgini and Mrs. Hobson. Billboard, June 8, 1918, p. 27.
The sideshow on the Sells-Floto Circus is owned by "Doc" W. F. Palmer. The pits seen from the outside spell S-E-L-L-S F-L-O-T-O, a letter for each pit. The following attractions are Carlos Trevano, double headed man; Honduras Twins, two ten-year old girls joined at the side; Alice From Dallas, fat girl; African Pigmies; Prince Kanaka, Australian bushman; 20 foot python; Belgian glass blower; Weller, mind reader; Mercer's Tattooed family; Lizette, physical culture bag puncher; Monkey Circus. Staff assisting Doc Palmer: Doc Duncan, assistant manager; T. W. Brooks, No. 1 ticket box; W. Scott, No. 2 ticket box; Claude ___, inside lecturer; Dave Gregory, manager and openings on No. 2 sideshow; D. Myers, No. 1 box; W. Forbes, No. 2 ticket box. - Boz. Billboard, June 8, 1918, p. 62.
Henry Boucher, superintendent of the menagerie and boss elephant man of Sells-Floto Shows, was called into the U. S. Army, ordered to the recruit depot at Fort McDowell. Billboard, June 15, 1918, p. 40.
Sells-Floto Circus. At San Francisco, George Utley, manager of the cookhouse, left and was replaced by Charles Fischer. Joe Brandon (Happy) is with the "Sammies" in New York and expects to leave for France soon. Jean E. Mercur, tattooed man with the sideshow, and Helen P. Benjamin (Dumont), reserved ticket taker, were married in Frisco June 1, and left the show in that city. Theo. Fleury, who has been contracting press agent, is now doing a line of special work ahead. Miss M. E. Hillyer replaces Mr. Fleury in his former capacity. - "Eddie" Deck. Billboard, June 22, 1918, p. 27.
Roster of the Sells-Floto Circus: President and general manager, Henry B. Gentry; assistant general manager, Frank H. Gentry; general agent; Fred Morgan; treasurer, Andrew Carty; ticket sellers (big wagon), Robert DeLochte and Chester Wall; chief auditor of tickets, Harvery Bruner; front door auditor, Charles R. Colby; announcer, Charles Lewis; manager sideshows, W. F. Palmer; press, Frank Braden, general press representative; Theo. Flelury, contracting agent; Ed Deck, press back with show and ticket man; Wm. Wells, equestrian director; Meyer Schlom, twenty-four hour man; Geo. Meyers, director of ballet; John Sweeney, watchman; Samuel Meinardi, mailman; J. H. Delvecho, calliope; Prof. C. L. Brown, band; Fred Stewart, purchasing agent; Robert Worth, Richard B. Farman, Paul Neal and J. H. DelVecho, ticket sellers under big top, concert and reserved seats; Nobby Clark, supt. ring stock; Charles Lucky, boss props; John Eberle, supt. canvas; Jim Williams, Ed (Fullhouse) Hartman, assistants; Earl Baker, motor trucks; Robert Bonney and David Creely, assistants; G. W. Embleton, supt. lights; Harry A. Slade, Ed Henry, Warren Pribble, M. Conway, Andy Cregg, assistants; Jack Bigger, trainmaster; Happy Price, assistant; "Major" Murphy, chief trainman; John Mack, chief porter; Charles Churchill, animal trainer; Lee Hamilton and Simon Rogers, in charge of dog and pony acts; Freddie Biggs, impersonator; B. W. LaFollette(?), chief of reserved seat ushers; Helen Dumont, Mrs. E. Colby and Babe Parks, ushers; Leonard Aylesworth and Mrs. Addie Smith, wardrobe; Henry Brown, supt. baggage stock; Frank Becker, supt. cages; Richard Hall, charge of gorilla; J. Glasson, blacksmith; Wm. Lord, harness. Band: C. L. Brown, director; A. E. Brown, assistant; Raymond S. Escorscia, R. M. ___, J. Jensen, Mr. Cramer, Harry Goodman, M. Larson, Joe Pomilis, Harry Helm, Joe Simon, Victor Grahand, Mr. Hayner, Fred height, Morris Card, Will Warren, Guy Toops, John Ruff, C. E. Dubble, Rusty Campbell, Floyd Toops, Len Braun, Sam Mienardi, Ted Minges, Earl Schoreder, James Freeman, musicians.
Correct roster of the Sells-Floto Circus advance: Fred A. Morgan, general agent; Ed P. Wiley, contracting agent; Al Clarkson, special agent; Frank Braden, press agent; Emory D. Proffitt, manager car No. 1 car, and Patsy Gallagher, manager of No. 2 car. Billboard, July 13, 1918, p. 56.
Toto, the frog man, writes: "I will not be able to swim in the Sells-Floto pond any more this season, as I have joined the national army. I have now dispensed with the 'frog' part of the name and am Private Ed J. Hammer, Camp Lewis, Washington. Billboard, July 20, 1918, p. 54.
Sells-Floto Notes. . . . M. E. Axtell has been engaged as contracting press agent. Mark Davis (Jew Babe), candy butcher, is now at Camp Kearney. Charles Lewis, announcer, left at Grand Island. He was replaced by George Myers. Sam Fosworthy joined recently from Denver as treasurer. W. M. Schott has been appointed assistant trainmaster. . . . - Eddie Deck. Billboard, August 17, 1918, p. 27.
Doc Palmer has the sideshows with the Sells-Floto Circus. The lighting current is furnished by Palmer's own Delco lighting system. A calliope is stationed in the entrance and plays continuously, the power for this coming from the same engine which runs the lights. A price of 25 cents is charged and business is reported phenomenal. The lineup: Carlo Treneno(?), two-headed man; Honduras Twins, the Big Snake, Lizette Smith, lady bag puncher; the Nellers, mentalists; Palmo, magician; Chief Ogawa, pigmy; Prince Kanaka, bushman; W. J. Gower, glass blower, and the Monkey Family. Doc Duncan is assistant, while F. W. Brooks has the third box. Several staff have been called to the colors. They include Duke Mills, Leslie Lucas and Leslie Stevenson. - Ed Chenette. Billboard, August 24, 1918, p. 27.
Toto, the Frog Man is again under the Sells-Floto banner. Billboard, September 14, 1918, p. 55.
Denver, Col., Oct. 5. After traveling almost 13,000 miles and exhibiting in sixteen States, the Sells-Floto Circus closed its season at Walsenburg, Col., September 28 and arrive in winter quarters in this city the following day. - Eddie Deck. Billboard, October 12, 1918, p. 52.
Denver, Col., Nov. 16. The Sells-Floto Circus, on twenty-eight cars, is to go back to forty-three cars, as it was last year. A new big top, 1 160 round with four 50 foot middle pieces, is being builty, as well as new horse, dressing room and other tents. There will be a new calliope and an organ. It is intended that the organ iwll play in the menagerie and will likely go in the parade. H. B. Gentry will be general manager, Fred A. Morgan the general agent and W. E. Wells equestrian director. John Eberle will again be boss canvasman. Eberle is now superintendent of winter quarters. Among the performers engaged are the Hobsons, bareback riders; the Hodgini Troupe of bareback riders and other acts. New animal acts are being broken by director Wells and his assistants. One thing being done is the building of a new training barn. It measures fifty-five feet width, sixty feet length and twenty-four feet high. There is not a post or column in the building. Billboard, November 23, 1918, p. 52.
See the article on the 1918 show, online in Bandwagon, April 1944.
1919:
Rue and Laura Enos, equilibristic contortionists, now playing vaudeville, have signed for the coming season with the Sells-Floto Circus. Wm. H. Delly will have charge of the Sells-Floto advertising car No. 1 the coming season. Billboard, January 11, 1919, pp. 28, 29.
Edward Arlington has been engaged as traffic director for the coming season with Sells-Floto. Ed P. Wiley will be local contracting agent and Frank Braden press agent. Billboard, February 22, 1919, p. 76.
Denver, Col., Feb. 21. Sells-Floto Notes. At winter quarters General manager H. B. Gentry has given attention on the quality of paint and blending of colors on the wagons, cages and cars. The business staff: H. B. Gentry, president and general manager; Fred A. Morgan, general agent; Edward Arlington, director of traffic; Ed P. Kelley, local contracting agent; W. H. Delly, manager advertising car No. 1; Jack Oshier, manager car No. 3; Eddie Deck, contracting press agent; Frank Braden, story man, and Wm. Dinan, special agent. Billboard, March 1, 1919, p. 30.
Denver, Col., Feb. 28. The 1919 season of Sells-Floto Circus will start at Oklahoma City, Ok., April 19. It is understood that the show will exhibit in St. Louis, Mo., for one week, beginning April 28. An extensive trip through the East has been planned for the coming season. C. W. Finney has been engaged, dividing honors with Ed P. Wiley in doing local contracting, Jack Oshier will manage advertising car No. 1. Billboard, March 8, 1919, p. 30.
It was announced that the Sells-Floto Circus would open in Oklahoma City, but the opening stand and date have been changed, the initial stand now being Wichita Falls, Tex., April 17. The show's date in St. Louis will be for five days, starting April 30. Wm. H. Delly will be manager of the No. 1 car instead of Jack Oshier. Oshier will have the No. 3 car. Fred H. Seymou has charge of the cookhouse. Billboard, March 15, 1919, p. 60.
Wichita Falls, Tex., April 19. Sells-Floto parade. Every band wagon, tableau wagon, float, den, cage and chariot were resplendent in its new white enamel and gold and silver leaf. Novelty units of the long march past, bearing ballet girls in the costly 1919 wardrobe of the show. From the first twelve-horse team, drawing the first white and gold-carved tableau band wagon, to the eight arch-necked blacks pulling the red and silver steam calliope. From the first tableau float with lovely girls to the last elephant - little "Billy Sunday" swaying along with a white trap in tow, climaxed anything before put on the pavements by a circus . . . Equestrian director Wm. Wells has been provided with an array of big acts. Such featurers as the Alfredo Codona flying act, the Beatrice Sweeney aerial sensation, the Princess Victoria high wire dancing act, and the Lloyds, Hodginis and Hobsons riding display. The opening extravaganze, The Birth of the Rainbow, includes a ballet of 45 girls. The rings, the air and the track are kaleidescopic great, moving masses of rainbow hues. W. F. Palmer's sideshow features Kyko and Sulu, the Zanzibar Lost Tribe pinheads, Carlos Traveno, two-headed Mexican, the Honduras Twins (joined together), African pygmies and seventeen other attractions. The show trains are painted white this year with blue lettering. Billboard, April 26, 1919, pp. 3, 14.
Sells-Floto advertising car No. 1: Wm. H. Delly, manager; Ed Deck, contracting agent; Fred Stewart, boss billposter; Bert Stanley, boss lithographer; Oscar Wiley, Wm. Buchanan, George Orth, Doc Camp, Dick Simpson, James Savage, Raymond Brown, Harry Probst, billposters; Charles Fager, Fred Huet, K. Humes, lithographers; James Leddy, programmer; Ben Snyder, chief; H. R. Ross, paste maker. Billboard, May 3, 1919, p. 34.
Sells-Floto Circus car No. 1 roster: car manager, William H. Delly; boss billposter, Fred P. Stewart; lithographer, Fred B. Huet, Kip Humes, Charles H. Fager, Bert Stanley; programmer, James Leddy; billposters, George Orth, Oscar Wiley, William Buchman, "Doc" Camp, Dick Simpson, James A. Savage, Raymond Brown, Harry Howard, Harry Brobst, Kid Farquar, Louis Brasch, Fred Merrill; chef, Lawrence Mercereau; porter, Lester Ross; contracting press representative, Eddie Deck. Billboard, June 14, 1919, p. 47.
Kenneth O. Andrews has left the Sells-Floto Circus, having enlisted in the army at Watertown, N.Y. Billboard, August 9, 1919, p. 45.
Notice. Slayman Ali states his Arab Troupe is with the Sells-Floto Circus. This is an error. Simon Bonomor's Troupe of Arabs have been with Sells-Floto Circus the last three seasons. Simon Bonomor. [Advertisment] Billboard, August 16, 1919, p. 87.
Sells-Floto Circus. The clown walkaround of Jack Harris lying on the stretcher posing as Jess Willard, put on by Harry Thompson and Robert Marr, is more of a hit now that Jack Dempsey is with the show. Other numbers put on are Phil King's patriotic number, "peace and Liberty," including Earnest Girard, Ward Wright (Friday), Bones Hartzell and Louie Plamondon; Jack Klippel's mechanical rooster, also his Wm. Jennings Bryan and Bolivar numbers, assisted by Paul Wentzel. Bert Wells has some new stuff, as well as Fred Gay, especially his elephant dog he uses in the grand entry. Rue Enos still clings to his 1920 model, a big laugh producer. Jean Dearth makes them laugh with his shaking the shimmie gag. Clarence Stokes and Bob Eugene, besides doing their bar act, work with Earnest Girard, doing the Three Funny Soldiers. Leo Hendryx and George Livingston also work in the crazy number, doing the "Girl With the Long Hair." The Livingston Trio have a triple bar act. - Jean Dearth. Billboard, August 23, 1919, p. 90.
The 1919 tour of Sells-Floto Circus terminates at Hot Springs, Ark., November 13. The show will go to Denver, Colo. for the winter. The circus left Denver April 11 for Wichita Falls, Tex., where the tour began April 17. Twenty-five States and to provinces of Canada were entered - Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia, Ontario and Quebec were the provinces. Week engagements were played in St. Louis and Boston, and two-day stands included Montreal, Detroit, Kansas City, New Orleans and Atlanta. Cleveland was played May 10 with a return date July 28. The season was three days less than thirty-one full weeks. Sunday performances were given in Kansas City and New Orleans, and two will be given in Opeloosas, La., November 9. Billboard, November 8, 1919, p. 60.
Sells-Floto Circus. Practically every one of this season's acts has been re-engaged for the 1920 tour. Another train will be added, and another ring and stage. Its original title, "The Circus Beautiful," will be not only maintained, but emphasized. Henry B. Gentry will be with the show, as usual, as president and general manager, and Edward Arlington will be agent. Although scheduled to conclude its tour in Hot Springs, Ark., November 13, on account of muddy lots between Opelousas, La., and Little Rock, Ark., the train transferred from the Missouri Pacific to the Rock Island for the trip to Denver winter quarters. Biggs and Myers, who just closed with Sells-Floto, will go with Braden & Oshier's musical comedy organization. Mr. Braden was press representative and Mr. Oshier manager of the No. 2 car of Sells-Floto the past season. Billboard, November 22, 1919, p. 52.
Sells-Floto Circus. Practically every one of this season's acts has been re-engaged for the 1920 tour. Another train will be added, and another ring and stage. Its original title, "The Circus Beautiful," will be not only maintained, but emphasized. Henry B. Gentry will be with the show, as usual, as president and general manager, and Edward Arlington will be agent. Although scheduled to conclude its tour in Hot Springs, Ark., November 13, on account of muddy lots between Opelousas, La., and Little Rock, Ark., the train transferred from the Missouri Pacific to the Rock Island for the trip to Denver winter quarters. Biggs and Myers, who just closed with Sells-Floto, will go with Braden & Oshier's musical comedy organization. Mr. Braden was press representative and Mr. Oshier manager of the No. 2 car of Sells-Floto the past season. Billboard, November 22, 1919, p. 52.
More on Sells-Floto show, 1919, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down.
• An article on the 1919 Sells-Floto show is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1978, Vol. 22, No. 2, pp. 20-26.
• An article on the 1920 Sells-Floto show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1978, Vol. 22, No. 4, pp. 19-25.
• An article on the 1921-22 Sells-Floto show is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1980, Vol. 24, No. 1, pp. 4-9.
• An article on the 1922 Sells-Floto Circus is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1980, Vol. 24, No. 4, pp. 4-14.
Sells-Floto - 1923-24, 1927 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1921-1929 (American Circus Corp., owner)
1923:
Contrary to all reports, the Sells-Floto Circus will again, this coming season, go out on forty cars, and not as a sixty or sixty-five car circus, as has been hearlded about. The Sells-Floto will feature the big opening spectacle, "A Night in Persia," which will be put on with many novelties, and new wardrobe. The circus will open the season at the Coliseum, Chicago, Ill., April 7 to 22, inclusive. New York Clipper, February 14, 1923, p. 22.
• An article on the 1923 Sells-Floto Circus is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1978, Vol. 22, No. 6, pp. 36-45.
1924: An article on the 1924 Sells-Floto Circus is online in Bandwagon, Mar-Apr 1964.
1927: See detailed financial details for one day's performance of the 1927 show in Bandwagon, March, 1953, pp. 8-13.
Sells-Floto - 1932 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1930-32
• An article on a tour with the 1930 Sells-Floto show is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1980, Vol. 24, No. 2, pp. 23-26.
Brief information on the 1932 Sells-Floto show is online in Bandwagon, Jul-Aug 1963 (scroll down or use find).
Note: This show or people might be found on other pages on this website. Check out Billboard, Clipper, and/or do a Search
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
A. N. Shane's - 1919
Information on the 1919 A. N. Shane show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down or use find.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Shannon Bros. - 1911-12 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1911-12
1911: Shannon Bros.' Show. Harry Shannon, proprietor & manager; G. N. Gulliver, general agent; A. L. Shannon, musical director; H. G. Meibers [Melbers?], supt. reserved seat tickets; Jack Miller, supt. lights; Lloyd Eldred, boss carpenter. Show opens at Ludington, Michigan, May 11. Billboard, April 29, 1911, p. 60.
1912: Shannon Bros.' Show - Harry Shannon, prop., mgr.; Harry Shannon Jr., treas.; Jerry Prescott, general agent; C. Noble, advance press agent; Harry Shannon Jr., press agent back with show; Harvey Poyne, supt. privileges; L. Shannon, musical director; Chas. Willguess(?), supt. reserved seat tickets; James Reed, supt. canvas. Show opens at Fremont, Ind., May 9. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Adrian Sharpe's - 1911 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1911
Winter quarters. Adrian D. Sharpe Tent Shows, Gary, S.D. Billboard, March 4, 1911, p. 62.
J. White, manager, sideshow, Adrian D. Sharpe's Tent Shows. Billboard, March 18, 1911, n.p.n.
A wind-storm on July 9 blew down the big top of Adrian D. Sharpe's Tent Show at Conova, S.D. No one was Injured. Billboard, July 1, 1911, p. 27.
• In the 1910 census, Adrian D. Sharpe, age 28, was residing with his parents in Gary, South Dakota. According to the California Death Index, 1940-1997, he was born May 8, 1881 and died April 5, 1971 at Los Angeles, California. In 1936 he married Katharine M. Doyen in Orange County, California (California, County Marriages). His WWII draft registration lists his name as Adrian Dewitt Sharpe.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
J. B. Shaw's - 1884
The Silver Plate Circus Company gave a performance yesterday afternoon and last evening on the Eighth Ward Square. At both performances the attendance was quite large and the value of the price of admission given in a good show. The manager charges but fifty and twenty-five cents for admission. The Leo Brothers, in their trapeze, acrobatic and tumbling dor some wonderful feats. One act, where the elder Leo holds withhis teeth the younger Leo suspended by a strap and then whirls him around like a top. The little boy and girl on the trapeze are excellent, and the four-year-old clown is cute. The bareback riding and the horses are very ordinary, some of the clown work is anything but funny, and there are a great many things that might be criticized.
The Silver Plate Circus gave two performances yesterday, which proved much more satisfactory than the opening ones. In place of benches chairs had been secured, and as these were placed on the ground, there was no possibility of their falling very far. The feats of daring and skill were excellent, and the audience fully appreciated the efforts of the performers to please. Salt Lake Daily Tribune (Salt Lake City, UT), July 29, 1884, n.p.n.
Attachment suits were instituted yesterday against J. B. Shaw's Silver Plate circus by A. C. Brixen of the Valley House, who claims $404.05 for board and lodging of the various members of the troupe for a week past and by H. J. Faust, the livery and feed stable man, for $152 for hay and feed furnished the horses belonging to the circus since their arrival here. Thirteen head of horses, a number of wagons and the tent were seized by Constable Crow on the warrant issued, and the property all stored at the back of Faust's lvier stable. Mr. Leo states that they did a good enough business here last week and made money, and that the treasurer has now enough cash on hand to pay all debts, but that he refuses to do so, owing to some partnership difficulties existing between the members of the firm. It is supposed that the circus parties were anxious to have the attachment issued, in order that their business relations might be brought to a close and their partnership connection dissolved. It is not probable that a bond can be given for the release of the attachment, and should that prove true the property will be put up for sale and one of the parties will purchase the whole outfit and start anew. Salt Lake Daily Tribune (Salt Lake City, UT), August 5, 1884, n.p.n.
Judgement was renderd by Justice Pyper yesterday in favor of A. C. Brixon and against Shaw's Silver Plate Circus for $202.05 and costs. The property will be sold on Saturday next at 10 o'clock a.m. and 2 o'clock p.m. Salt Lake Daily Tribune (Salt Lake City, UT), August 12, 1884, n.p.n.
J. B. Shaw's Silver-Plated Circus exhibited at Salt Lake City, Utah, one week, ending August 2. After the performance of 2, the properties were attached, at the instance of A. C. Brixen of the Valley House and J. H. Faust, livery-stable keeper, for $414. The goods are likely to be sold. The company was organized at Bellevue, Ida., last Fall. Billboard, August 16, 1884, p. 341.
J. B. Shaw's Circus was sold in Salt Lake City Aug. 16, and bought in by Leo Bros., acrobats, who had in interest in the business. They left Salt Lake 18, and are now playing through Southern Utah. New York Clipper, August 30, 1884, p. 373.
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Charley Shay's - 1878, 1880, 1888, 1891
1878:
[Advertisement] Charley Shay's Quincuplexal and New Grand Novelty Idea, will exhibit at Defiance, Ohio, Monday, August 12, 1878. 5 exhibitions in one. 1. Cook's Circus Royal. 2. LaMont's Trained Animals. 3. Tsin-Chi-Hoang's Japanese Troupe. 4. Ali Hammet's troupe of Bedouin Arabs. 5. Mons. Leon's Humpty Dumpty Troupe. 2 free exhibitions, mid-air flight and slide for life on a single wire from the top of the highest center pole to the ground by the Japanese beauty, Yara-Komo, and the Indian chief, Yellow Hammer. Free to all at 1 o'clock p.m. Two performances daily, afternoon and evening. Doors open at 1 and 7 p.m. Admission 50 c, children, 25c. M. L. Townsend, agent. Defiance Democrat (OH), August 8, 1878, p. 5.
1880:
Performers wanted for Charley Shay's Quincuplexal. Gymnast, acrobats and lady serio-comic or specialties. New York Clipper, February 21, 1880, p. 383.
1888: (Shay & Metcalfe)
Wanted for Shay & Metcalfe's New Quincuplexal and 5 Allied Shows, circus people in every branch of the profession. Sensational acts of all kinds, trained animals, knockabout clowns, two ladies for double ascension, concert people, those playing brass preferred. Everybody must do two or more acts. Also twelve musicians for band, also good agent. Address Charley Shay, Cincinnati, O. New York Clipper, April 14, 1888, p. 81.
1891:
Wanted, performers in every branch of the circus business, for Charley Shay's Quincuplexal Shows, Circus, Museum, Trained Animals, Japanese Troupe, and Spectacular Pantomime of "Old Mother Goose." Good pantomime and knockabout clowns, troupe of performing ponies, horses, donkeys, goats, dogs and monkeys, and any good sensational and novelty acts. Also musicians for 2 bands. Would like to hear from Mons. Alexis Schular. Would also buy 2 or 4 good trick ponies. Charley Shay, 27 Pine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 161.
Wanted, for Charley Shay's Quincuplexal Shows, a few mroe good useful performers. Also riders with their own stock. Two or three Japanese jugglers, good pantomime clown who can get up pantomime tricks and a boss canvasman. Address Charley Shay, 27 Pine Street, Cincinnati, O. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 192.
Prof. Clarence Asbey and wife are with Charley Shay’s New Quincumplexal Shows, producing their living models on a monster elevated revolving platform. It is one of the features of the show. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 2.
Prof. Clarence Ashey(?) and wife are with Charley Shay's New Quinccomplexal Shows, producing their living models on a monster elevated revolving platform. It is one of the features of the show. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 214.
Wanted, for Charley Shay's 5 United Shows. Troupe of performing ponies, trick mules and trained dogs, goats and monkeys; also room for few more good performers and concert people. Will buy two good performing ponies and two good trick mules. Wire quick as per route. . . . New York Clipper, June 20, 1891, p. 260.
Charley Shay's New Quincuplexal Shows, Oriental Circus and Spectacular Pantomime of "Old Mother Goose" opened it season June 8, at Cincinnati, O., to a reported large audience. They have a 100ft. round top, with three __ft. middle pieces and 30x60 dressing room top, a large stage, handsomely fitted up with special trick scenery and all the latest inventions to produce the spectacular pantomime of "Old Mother Goose," introducing a fine ballet. Roster of the New Quincuplexal: Charley Shay, sole proprietor; Edward P.(F.?) Boyd, treasurer; T. McDonald, advance representative, with six assistants; Edwin Martinnetti(?), esquestrian and general manager; Maurice Martinnetti, assistant director. . . . Performers: Edwin Martinnetti, Maurice Martinnetti, Ralph Martinnetti, Marie Martinnetti, Edward Guthrie, Robert Peasley, Ida Guthrie, Harry Sparrow . . . Mr. and Mrs. Ashton, Maud Muller, Guthrie Bros., Mr. and Mrs. James Walker . . . Stella Shay, William Hart's Dog and Monkey Circus . . . La Bell Helene, Flora De Leers and Sig. Ex(?) Panosa, Mons. Celeste, Prof. Freelander, with his troupe of ten performing stallions and donkeys, and Prof. Williams' Silver Cornet Band of ten pieces. This show will travel by rail with its own special train, consisting of one 60ft. sleeper, three 40ft. flat cars, and two 40ft. box cars. They report all well and in the best of spirits, with a fine season's prospects. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 268.
On the road, circuses: Chas. Shay's, Cincinnati, O. June 22-2?, Cynthia, Ky. 2?, Paris 30, Frankfort July 1, Lexington 2-4. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
On the road, circuses: Chas. Shay's, Frankfort, Ky. July 1, Lexington 2-4. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 281.
Chas. Shay's show has disbanded. Prof. Clarence As?ey writes from South Bend, Ind., complaining of a deal of unprofessional treatment at the hands of Manager Shay. Salaries, board bills, etc. are said to remain unpaid. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 312.
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Shea's - 1895
Notes from Shea's Show. We played the La Fourche territory to Leeville, Louisiana. Bessie and Luis are now doing a flying trapeze. Harry Costello, trapeze and wire, joined at Thibodeau, Louisiana. We go to New Orleans, playing towns on the way. New York Clipper, June 22, 1895, p. 245.
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Shedman Bros. - 1882, 1893-95
1882:
The Shedman Bros. start out with their Metropolitan Railroad Circus for a tour South Sept. 16, giving their first show in Berwick, Pa. Winfield Shedman paid a flying visit to this city [New York] last week. New York Clipper, September 16, 1882, p. 419.
1893:
Shedman Bros.' Kuno-Drome. Wanted, man to do outside wire ascension. One that can do wire juggling act inside preferred. Show opens at Emporium, Pa., June ??. Long engagement.Show goes South. Address Shedman Bros., Emporium, Pa. New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 244.
Shedman Bros.' Kuno Drome opened at Emporium, Pa., June 20 to good business and made Dubois, the next stand, and put up in wind and rain, but played to good houses for three days. One of Shedman's performing dogs died at Emporium on the first day, and at Dubois the large boa constrictor in the museum and Shedman's favorite monkey died. Additions to the museum include the Casalnovas(?), tattooed people, and Prof. Lew Wallace and his Punch and Judy. In the big show Jos. Rachy(?), wire ascensionist, joined; also Zenes(?), who swallows swords, bayonets, etc. Everything is brand new with the show and the new canvas keeps out the heavy rains. The show travels by rail and will be at Bradford, Pa., July 4. A feature in the procession, headed by Prof. Dodd's brass band, are Shedman's twenty dogs in line, decorated with ribbons and beautiful bespangled trappings. New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 264.
On the road, miscellaneous: Shedman Bros., Buffalo NY July __, indefinite. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
From the Shedman Bros.' Show. The show remains the same as when we started out. The roster: W. S. Shedman, Mrs. W. S. Shedman, Geo. W. Shedman, seventeen trained dogs, including a string of imported leaping greyhounds; Jim Cassady(Cassidy?); Lew Wallace, manager of museum; George W. Price, assistant manager . . . Rose Shedman, Lew Wallace, Le Seurdo, Joe Robie, Mike Cassidy . . . Charles Adams, George Robinson, William Rider . . . All the fore part of the season was dull and the show was behind, but for the past six weeks we have been doing a winning business, and have played ourselves out of a bad hole. This show won't close. We will either go to California or to South America, which route will be determined on our arrival at Charleston, S.C. We caught the southern hurricane at Frederick, Md., Oct. 13(?) and had to drop all our canvas about nine o'clock. New York Clipper, October 28, 1893, p. 545.
Shedman Bros.' Show continues to good business, and will be enlarged Nov. 13, by putting in a middle piece. The Grace Shannon Balloon Co. will join the show on that date, consisting of man, woman and dog aeronauts, all three descending at one time from one balloon. William K. Rider is business manager, and Harry Myers is in advance of the show. The museum has been taken away from the big show and will be run as a sideshow. New York Clipper, November 11, 1893, p. 579.
Lew Wallace, who has been with the Shedman Bros. Show all summer, left Nov. 9(?) for Arkansas, to join his partner, Capt. O. White. New York Clipper, November 18, 1893, p. 592.
Shedman Bros.' Show is doing a fair business through South Carolina. Mr. Myers was discouraged at the outlook in Florence, S.C., and did not bill it, and went to Sumpter(?) instead. . . . The Spark's Circus is following us close, but their agent has not caught us yet; he may, though, at Sumpter, as we shall be there a full week. After that we shall go to Charleston, S.C., and fit up a building to exhibit the dogs and monkeys for an unlimited time. We ___ there seven weeks last season; three weeks will possibly be enough this season. Harry M. Myers has signed for one year, to take charge of the business with the big show to open in Elizabeth City, N.C., about March 20(?). The show will be enlarged next season, using an 80ft. round top with a 40ft. middle piece. All new designs for printing will be gotten up, and will use a new ___ sheet and ___ new lithographs. Prof. Shedman is busy breaking in eight new dogs and ___ monkeys. Will use thirty dogs in all and five trained monkeys. Among those engaged are Harry Myers, general manager . . . James Adams . . . G. W. Shedman, clown, and M?? W. S. Shedman. A concert will be given and side show run by the company. The show will open at Edenton(?) N. C. about March 1?, and travel Northwest into ___ then East through Canada. New York Clipper, December 16, 1893, p. 659.
1894:
Shedman Bros.' Kuno-Drome close season at New ___, N.C., and ship to Elizabeth City, N.C., where they will open with a much larger show about March 17, and will have side show and concert in connection with their show. Admission to big show will be 25 cents. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 810.
W. S. Shedman, of the Shedman Bros., has bought some property at Elizabeth City, N.C., and will make that place the headquarters of their enterprises in the future. Contracts will be made for new buildings, which are to be finished by June 1. They will start their show from Elizabeth City April 2(?), giving a twenty-five cent ring show, with concert and sideshow. . . . New York Clipper, March 24, 1894, p. 37.
The Shedman Bros. have secured the Pardo Family, bicycle riders, for their circus for the coming season, and have signed W. S. Maguire as general agent in advance. New York Clipper, March 31, 1894, p. 53.
Wanted, freaks of nature. Also, man and wife to work illusions. Man must do Punch, lady to handle snakes. Also extra heavy fat woman. And other attractions for Shedman Bros.' Kuno Drome and Side Show, and side show paintings. Address Six Pardos, care Reilly & Wood's Big Show, Baltimore, Md. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 76.
Wanted, Shedman Bros.' Kuno-Drome, a few more performers, working agent, man for outside ascension, must do act inside; Punch and Judy, etc. for sideshow. May to run same on sharing terms. Will buy some second hand tights, also want a sleeper. Address Shedman Bros., Elizabeth City, N.C. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 141.
1895:
Shedman Bros.' Trained Dog and Monkey Show. This is our third month on the Island of Jamaica, and our second trip around the island. We will close our season at Kingston. Expense of traveling here are heavy, consequently we are not making big money, but are holding our own and putting a little aside. Aaron M. Sallis is our manager. Geo. W. Wood, the bone soloist, is still with us. Robt. E. Lee, of the Lee Family, joined us at Kingston. New York Clipper, March 30, 1895, p. 55.
W. S. and Geo. W. Shedman, Geo. W. Wood and others, of the Shedman Bros.' Show, arrived in this city from Kingston, Jamaica, May 1. The Shedman Bros. will put a small show on the road this Summer. New York Clipper, May 11, 1895, p. 147.
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Shelby's - 1888
Daniel Shelby's Golden Circus took the road June 4, in Illinois, with the following people: T. J. McArty (manager); H. Buckley (treasurer); T. H. Currior, L. A. Foote, Ed. Baldwin, Dan Ducro, Louis Ducro, Bell Ducro, the Sankeys, the De Comas Family, Walter Mack, Harry Day, Prof. Wile's dog, pony goat and monkey circus, Andy Morris,the Parvenellis, Capt. Ellis(?), Rudolph Zimen, T. E. Young, Pearl and Ruby Young, James Mitchel, Mlle. Aime, Dan Dale, Chas. Mitchel . . . John Gerat, Frank Krotz, T. H. Semon, L. J. Mason, J. H. Wilson, John Williams, Arthur Faulk, Wm. Wallace, W. Winnett, Walter Mack, Lotty Morris and J. C. Mitchel. New York Clipper, June 23, 1888, p. 234.
Shelby's New Great Golden Shows . . . Messrs. Shelby & McArty. Male and female equestrians, clowns, queens of the air, bareback champions, gymnasts. Performing ponies, mules, donkeys, dogs, goats, monkeys and leaping greyhounds. Funny clowns. The Great De Comas, aerial bicyclists. A trick elephant and trick crocodile. Free street parade. At Kellogg, July 27. Kellogg (IA) Enterprise, July 20 and 27, 1888.
Shelby's circus was wrecked by a windstorm at Odell, Ill. a few days ago, during the afternoon performance. The tent was blown down and fifteen persons were injured. Wellsboro Agitator (Wellsboro, PA), July 3, 1888.
Joliet, Ill., Aug. 21. Dan Shelby's circus exhibited in this city to a slim crowd. Tom Currier, formerly Shelby's partner in the circus, came down from Chicago in the afternoon, and it was understood that he had the papers with him to close Shelby out, or sell out the show in order to regain possession of certain money which Shelby had obtained from him. It is said Shelby fixed up the matter. Chariton Herald (Chariton, IA), August 23, 1888, p. 5.
Shelby's New Great Golden Railroad Shows. Museum, menagerie, aquarium, aviary, elebated stage and two ring circus. Traveling on its own special train of silver palace cars. Connellsville, August 30. Male and female equestrians, comical clowns, queens of the air, bareback champions, glorious gymnasts. Performing horses, ponies, donkeys, mules, dogs, goats, monkeys, leaping grayhounds and funny clown dogs. The Great Decomas, aerial bicylists and gymnasts. Two ring. Elephant "Zip." Free street parade. Admission 25 and 50 cents. The Courier (Connellsville, PA), August 24, 1888.
Richmond, Va., Sept. 24. Dan Shelby's circus, from Chicago, is stranded here. Its effect are in the hands of a deputy sheriff. Brownstown Banner (Brownstown, IN), September 27, 1888, n.p.n.
Dan Shelby, the amusement man, formerly of Buffalo, has been running a circus in the South to hard luck. Creditors have attatched the property which Mr. Shelby is said to have transferred to his wife and manager, and employees clamor for their pay. Daily News (Batavia, NY), September 27, 1888, n.p.n.
W. H. Quinnett, late proprietor of the Little Gem Theatre, Quincy, Ill., is now assistant manager of Dan Shelby's Circus. This show will remain out unitl December 18(?), playing through the South. Dan Malcom, Alf. Dorian and Mlle. Lorretta attached the Dan Shelby Circus Sept. 19, at Hanover, VA., for salaries due. Judgment was given in favor of the performers. New York Clipper, September 29, 1888, p. 458.
Dan Shelby's Circus is in the hands of a receiver. The menagerie has been leased for six weeks to an exhibition company. Manager Shelby left for Chicago, Ill., Sept. 25(?), and is expected back this week, when probably the trouble will be settled. New York Clipper, October 6, 1888, p. 476.
Receiver's Sale of the horses, animals, cages and everything appertaining thereto of the Dan Shelby Circus at auction at Richmond, Virginia. The property: one mountain lion, one leopard, one deer, one golden pheasant, one parrot, one cockatoo, one rat kangaroo . . . monkeys, one antelope, one ibex, one elephant, one camel, one dromedary, and the covers and suits used with the said elephant, monkeys and other animals, the cages used to contain said animals, draught horses and three ring horses. New York Clipper, November 3, 1888, p. 548.
Receiver's sale, Dan Shelby Circus. In addition to the property mentioned, for sale: ten wheeled cages for animals, one band wagon, one mirror tableau wagon, one ticket seller's wagon, three railroad coaches named Vernon, Shelby and Chicago, respectively . . . New York Clipper, November 17, 1888, p. 582.
Receiver's Sale of the horses, animals, cages and everything appertaining thereto of the Dan Shelby Circus at auction. By authority of two orders of the Circuit Court of Henrico County, Virginia in the case of Kennedy & als. v. Shelby & als on the 16th and 18th days of October, 1888. I shall on Nove. 21, at 10 o'clock a.m. at Lovenstein's Stable at Richmond, Virginia sell at public auction to the highest bidder the property: one mountain lions, one leopard, four monkeys, one deer, two pacas, one golden pheasant, one parrot, one cockatoo, two ant eaters, one rat kangaroo, three marmaset monkeys, two ___ monkeys, two dog faced monkeys, one antelope, one civet cat, one ibex, one elephant, one camel, one dromedary, and the covers and suits used with the said elephant, monkeys and other animals, the cages used to contain said animals, 34 draught horses and three ring horses. . . . [Advertisement] New York Clipper, November 17, 1888, p. 580.
The whole outfit of the Shelby Circus, with the exception of the menagerie and horses, which were sold at Richmond, Va., Nov. 29, was purchased by John Carther [Cather?] and Harvey Shellcross [Shallcross?], of Frankford, Pa. They announce that they will fit out a wagon show for the coming season. New York Clipper, December 8, 1888, p. 627.
1889: Dan Shelby's advertising car and paper was sold at a receiver's sale Dec. 24, at Bristol, Tenn. It was purchased by John Cathus [Cather?], of Frankford, Pa., who has since sold it to Howe's London Show. New York Clipper, Jaunary 5, 1889, p. 690.
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Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton - 1881
For Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton's Circus and Menagerie six new cages of animals passed over the Erie Railroad to Buffalo, N.Y., consigned to this company, March 10. F. W. Washburn, Steve C. Albright, J. M. Russell, J. M. Keating and Geo. Ellis have been added to the advance brigade, of which W. J. Chappello is superintendent. New York Clipper, March 19, 1881, p. 411.
W. J. Chappelle is in Buffalo, N.Y., organizing the advertising brigade of Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton's United Mastodon Shows. The season is to open May 1 in Belleville, Ont., the winter quarters of the show. Crosby and Harper are the managers of the privileges. New York Clipper, April 9, 1881, p. 42.
Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton's Grand United Mastodon Shows are to inaugurate their season in Bellville, Ont., April 30. The officers and company are Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton, sole proprietors; Dan Shelby, general manager; Giles Pullman, general director of the entire advance brigade; Henry Pullman, general superintendent; John Hamilton, treasurer; with W. Selig Kusel, assistant; O. P. Myers, general agent and R.R. contractor; W. E. Franklin, contracting agent; Alex Jaques, excursion agent; W. J. Chappelle, press agent and supt. of advertising car No. 1; Eugene A. Weiler of car No. 2; T. K. Burke, lithographer with five assistants; O. D. Miller, programmer with six assistants; Alex. McDonald, chief of posting brigade No. 1 with ten assistants; Chas. T. Slocum of No. 2 with ten assistants; F. W. Washburn, mailing clerk; general musical director, Prof. Erwin Keppen; leader of silver saxhorn band, Henry Hyer; leader of reed band and drum corps, J. O. Chenowith; Harry Mack, equestrian director.
Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton's Circus and Menagerie showed at Toronto, Ont., June 8, 9. Miss Lizzie Wallett, professionally known as "Zazel" with the show, and A. P. Roche of St. Louis, proprietor of the privileges, were married June 9. New York Clipper, June 18, 1881, p. 210.
Pottsville, July 20. During the performance of Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton's circus here last night a crowd of roughs from St. Clair, Mount Carbon, Palo Alto and other neighboring villages began bombarding the tent with stones. At first no attention was paid to the stones, but finally when a volley came in over the wall canvas and struck several members of the audience, a posse of canvasmen sallied forth to drive off the "hoodlums." On their appearance outside the tent the circus men were greeted with a volley of stones and they fired several revolver shots in return. This had the effect of stampeding the audience and in less than five minutes after the first shot was fired fully one-half of the people who had paid the price of admission tot he show left the tent. Another shower of stones and an answering volley of revolver shots had the effect of breaking up the performance and causing the remaining members of the audience to leave the tent.
Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton Mastodon Show gave two entertainments in our town on Saturday last, and the universal opinion of those who were in attendance was that it was one of the best shows that ever exhibited here. While the menagerie was not as complete as some others, the ring performance was far in the lead of any circus that has visited Hagerstown for a long time. The trapeze performance by the Carlo children was certainly wonderful, while the trained dogs were marvelous in themselves. Herald and Torch Light (Hagerstown, MD), August 3, 1881, n.p.n.
The Biddeford Times says: Frank McGuire of this city, known to the profession as Young Ajax, while performing a very difficult feat, in Hillsboro, Ohio, with Pullman, Shelby & Hamilton's circus, made a miscalculation and fell, causing a commuted fracture of the lower part of the right leg. It was decied that as soon as he was able to be moved he should be sent to his home in this city, and he is now on his way. Daily Kennebec Journal (Kennebec, ME), August 15, 1881, n.p.n.
New Orleans, La., Sept. 26. A railroad accient prevented Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton's Circus from giving three performances as announced. From here they take a steamboat to Cairo, playing in the principal cities on the Mississippi River. New York Clipper, October 1, 1881, p. 451.
Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton's Circus and Menagerie is said to have done good business in the towns on the Mississipi River since they started in the steamer Kate Minney, Sept. 26. They expect to reach Cairo, Ill., Oct. 26, and then go up the Ohio River. New York Clipper, October 29, 1881, p. 518.
Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton's Circus will Winter in the Exposition Building, Louisville, Ky. Billy Andrews, clown, with the show, closed the season at Cairo, Ill. New York Clipper, November 12, 1881, p. 554.
Daniel Shelby has disposed of his interest in the Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton Show and purchased Wm. Emmett's interest and lease of the Academy of Music, Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, December 31, 1881, pp. 675, 683.
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James Shelby's - 1903, 1905, 1907-08 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1908
1903: Notes from James Shelby Show: We are working Northwest Georgia to good business, although the weather is pretty bad. The trip from Latoni to Hartwell was made in a snow storm. We close December 19 for three weeks. Today we are celebrating little Edna Ogden's birthday. Billboard, December 26, 1903, p. 9.
1905: He is only three years old, but little James Shelby Ogden is the mascot of the James Shelby Show - named in honor of him. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. T. Ogden, proprietor, and is a clever showman. Master James has seen the show grow from a six man outfit to its present proportions, which require fourteen wagons and twenty-five people. . . . Billboard, June 17, 1905, p. 16.
1907: The James Shelby Show ran into Valdosta, Georgia, to enlarge and improve. Will Rydon, late of McDonald & Rydon, of the McDonald Brothers' Show, has signed with the Shelby Show for the season. K. S. Wolfing has also signed his stallions and dogs with it. Billboard, April 27, 1907, p. 23.
1908: The Great James Shelby Shows, at present touring the South, spent Christmas as Turman, South Carolina, December 24. . . . Speeches were made by Mr. Longenecker, lessee of the show and his performers. The personnel of the company includes Chas. T. and Lizzie Ogden, Edwin Hardy, Taylor Willis, W. H. Ashdown, Chas. LaBird, Mrs. Lucy Devene, Lottie Devene, Edna Ogden, LaBird Trio, Aflton, Edwin, Harry; "Red" Powell and Jimmy Devene. The shows have finished their fiftieth week, having lost but two weeks this season. . . . Al Heintz and Hicks, late of the Sparks Show, have joined the company at Savannah, Georgia. The show will move to Jacksonville, Florida, for the winter, where it will be improved and enlarged for 1908. Billboard, January 11, 1908, p. 22.
1909: Mrs. Lizzie Ogden, wife of Chas. T. Ogden, proprietor of the James Shelby Show, died at Honaker, Virginia, October 15, from asthma. Mrs. Ogden was a sister of the Teets Bros., well known among the tented showmen. For the past six years she has controlled and managed the James Shelby Shows. She leaves a husband and three children. The remains were brought to Highland Cemetery, Covington, Kentucky, for burial. Billboard, October 23, 1909, p. 20.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, James Shelby, proprietor, Charles T. Ogden, manager, 1903 - circa 1907.
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Sheldenberger & Co.'s Menagerie & Circus - 1867, 1871
• 1867: online at Clipper, November 16, Clipper, November 23, Clipper, November 30 (scroll down)
• 1867 show was said to be Whitby & Co.
1871: (John V. O'Brien, proprietor)
[Advertisement] Sheldenburger's European Menagerie and Great Grecian Circus. First tour in America. Advance of the Monarch. The Unicorn of Holy Writ is coming. Titusville, Tuesday, May 16, 1871. Mr. Eugene Sheldenburger for the past 12 years, proprietor of the European Menagerie and Circus, has confined his traveling tours exclusively to the old world. Mammoth menagerie & faultless circus. Foremost among the novelties of the grand zoological collection, is the rhinoceros or unicorn of holy writ. Eight massive horses. Elephant "Selim." Signor Balize's den of lions and tigers will be entered by this lion king. . . . The menageris is entirely distinct from the circus, giving ample time to witness the rhinocerous and menagerie beofre the equestrian exercises begin.
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Sherman's - 1882-84
1882:
[Advertisement] The Great Sherman Circus and Troupe of Educated Horses will pitch their tent and give exhibitions in the following: Echo, August 1st; Pendleton, 2d, 3d; Weston, 4th; Walla Walla, 5, 7, 8th; Dayton, 10th, 11th; Pomeroy, 12th. C. & J. Sherman, proprietors and managers. Morning Oregonian (Portland, OR), July 31, 1882, n.p.n.
Sherman's School of Trained Horses and Great Family Circus. To the people of Victoria and neighboring towns - we respectfully call attention to the fact that the Great Sherman Circus will soon give our entertainments in this place. Our trained horses are the best in the world and our corps of arenic stars unsurpassed by any circus company having visited the Pacific coast for years. C. & J. Sherman, proprietors. Daily Colonist (Victoria, British Columbia), August 4, 1882, n.p.n.
August Siegrist, clown, pantomimist, etc., and his wife, Sadie Siegrist, skipping rope and jig dancer, are meeting with success as features of the Sherman Circus in the Northwestern territories and British Columbia. New York Clipper, September 16, 1882, p. 418.
Sherman's Circus [at Victoria, BC] Yesterday forenoon Sherman's circus troupe made a parade through the principal streets headed by the silver cornet band in a handsome chariot, after which came a lady rider, the trained horses and the clown horse, Jack, on a car with a man seated on his back driving the team. The trained horses are alone worth the price of admission. Fred. Mackley, the clown, appeared to hit all round in the right place. Messrs. Duray, Adler, Williams and Siegrist distinguished themselves in the horizontal bar act, and the tightrope performance by the latter is clever. The trapeze act by Adler and Duray was much admired. Miss Katie Cross on her horse Danger went through a menage act. The trained horses are superior to anything attempted in this line, and the horses Jack and Tommy, handled by Mr. Sherman, display almost human sagacity. At the close of the performance the usual concert was given. Daily Colonist (Victoria, British Columbia), October 8, 1882, n.p.n.
1883:
Wanted for Sherman's Great European Circus and Educated Horses, people in all branches of the circus business. C. Sherman, Montery, Cal. Fitzgerald Brothers have all privileges with Sherman's Circus. Dan Fitzgerald. New York Clipper, February 24, 1883, p. 799.
Sherman's Circus is to shortly leave San Francisco, Cal., for a tour of Southern California and Arizona; thence through Texas by way of the Southern Pacific R.R. New York Clipper, March 17, 1883, p. 846.
Sherman's Circus is to begin its season in Oakland, Cal., about April 20. New York Clipper, April 1, 1883, p. 38.
San Francisco, March 26. Sherman's Circus season commences about the 20th in Oakland. Budd Gorman, the hurdle rider; Polly Lee, juggling rider; W. H. O'Dell, somersault and four-horse rider; Little Gloria and his ponies, Duke and Dutchess, arrived from the East 19th, under engagement to Sherman; Frank Morosco, clown; Millie Effie DeRock, the woman with the iron jaw (and a name to go with it), and Young America arrive today. Sherman's co. will be a good one. New York Dramatic Mirror, April 7, 1883, p. 4.
Sherman's Educated Horses and Great European Circus opened its season in Oakland, Cal., April 5. The company: Willie O. Dale, Young America, contortionist; Charles Morosco, Little Gloria, Frank Morosco, Effie De Rock, Frank Monroe, Pauline Lee, Wm. Gorman and the clowns Jean and Jack. The trick horses, Tommy, Barney and Jack are attractions. Dan Fitzgerald is assistant manager. New York Clipper, April 21, 1883, p. 70.
1884:
Sherman's European Circus, including Prof. John Sherman's three trained horses, has been under canvas in the Hawaiian islands recently. They were two weeks at the Esplanade at Honolulu up to April 1. Afterwards they appeared in Eohulin(?), Island of Main, for three performances and then went to th island of Hawaii for a week, returning to Honolulu, whence they take steamer for San Francisco. New York Clipper, April 26, 1884, p. 87.
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Sherman & Hinman - 1883
[Advertisement] Fifth Annual Tour of Sherman's Educated Horses and Hinman's Great European Circus. At Fresno, Wednesday, April 18th. Comprising Sherman's celebrated horses, Tommy Barney and Jack, and Tamiack, the hairless horse. Mlle. Pauline Lee, princess of the arena. Willaim Gorman, hurdle rider, Willie O'Dell, somersault and four horse rider. Little Gloria, child wonder and his ponies, Duke and Duchess. Mlle. Effie DeRock, lady with the iron jaw. Morosco Bros., Victor, Frank, Charles and Harry, Russian acrobats. Young America, boneless wonder. Charles Morosco, slack wire. Frank Morosco, knockabout clown. Frank Monroe, human fly. George Tompson, equestrian clown. Magnificent street parade. Two bands of music. A host of knights and ladies. Admission $1.00. Children, 50 cts. Doors open at 1 and 7; performance at 2 and 8. Fresno Republicant (Fresno, CA), April 14, 1883, n.p.n.
San Francisco, Cal., Sept. 2. Sherman & Hinman's Circus company has been engaged by Fred N. Bert, and they are to make their first appearance in the Grand Opera-house 5. The ring will be upon the stage. New York Clipper, September 8, 1883, p. 404.
Sherman & Hinman's Circus, now in San Francisco, Cal., includes Willie O'Dell, four horse rider; Young America, contortion; Charles Morosco, slack wire; Little Gloria and her trained ponies; Frank Morosco, clown; Effie De Rock, wire asensionist; Frank Munroe, aerial act; Jean and Jack, comiques; the Morosco Brothers, Victor, Frank, Charles and Harry, acrobats; Pauline Lee, rider; Wm. Gorman, hurdle rider; and Tommy, Barney and Jack, educated horses. The officers are Sherman & Co., proprietors; C. Sherman, manager and treasurer; W. S. Hinman, associate manager; Dan Fitzgerald, assistant manager; Prof. John Sherman, educator of horses; Walter Morosco, equestrian director; Robert Scheile(?), leader of band; George Sherman, master of transportation; Robert Elbreak, boss canvasman; A. F. Aker, boss hostler; H. Wilson, boss property man; and C. E. Van Horn, general business agent. New York Clipper, September 15, 1883, p. 430.
The Siegrist Family and the Irwin Bros. were to have joined Sherman & Hinman's Circus in San Francisco, California, September 29. The show, after playing two weeks at the Grand Opera house, opened on Market street, where their business has been good, we are informed. New York Clipper, October 13, 1883, p. 500.
San Francisco, Cal., Oct. 16. Sherman & Hinman's Circus was attached and closed last night. New York Clipper, October 20, 1883, p. 510.
Sherman's Circus has again gone to pieces. New York Clipper, November 10, 1883, p. 568.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, in San Francisco, 1883.
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Sherman, Snodgrass & Co. - 1892
Sherman, Snodgrass & Co.'s Trained Animal Exposition. Open at Plain City, O., May 11, 1892. We carry 80ft. R. T., two 30ft. M. P., fourteen wagons, forty head of horses, herd of educated goats, troupe of performing dogs, twelve head of performing horses and a dock of trained sheep. Side show consists of a 40x60 top, long mane horse, petrified woman, Sharpless, magician, and Verno, juggler. Wanted band of seven pieces, double in orchestra. Concert people. Boss canvas man, two clowns that can double in concert. Address Prof. W. Sherman, manager. P.S. Candy stand privilege for rent. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 141.
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Shield's or Shields' - 1885-88, 1890
1885:
Wanted, a knockabout clown, for Shield's Circus. Birmingham, Ala. Address H. Shields, manager. New York Clipper, April 4, 1885, p. 47.
Shield's Circus, now in the South, is said to be doing well. The principal performers are Charles Diamond, M. Milton, John Barry, Laura Shields, Tom G. Scott, Toney White, Charles Handing(?), Charley Howard, Bessie Todd, Christie Brothers and J. H. Shields. New York Clipper, April 25, 1885, p. 87.
1886:
Shield's Southern Show will remain at Jacksonville, Fla., all Winter. New York Clipper, January 9, 1886, p. 676.
Fred Barclay, the Three Albions, Zaoma and wife, James S. Mathews and Prof. Eberle have joined the Shields Circus at Nashville. The Winter season of this show opened at Nashville two weeks ago. New York Clipper, October 23, 1886, p. 500.
Shield's Circus, now in the South, is said to be prospering. The roster: J. H. Shields, proprietor; Lyman Shields(?), manager; J. E. Heffron, business representative; Fred Barklay, Charles Kennard, Roy Woodbridge, Albion Family, Zomora and wife, Harry Moran and wife, James Mathews, Harry Brandon, William Albion, Harry Moran, Ed. Kennard, Charles Anderson, Laura Shields, William Hopson, Frank Edwards, W. H. Wheeler and Prof. Harry Emming's band of fourteen pieces. New York Clipper, October 30, 1886, p. 523.
Shield's Circus has been enlarged by the addition of two 50ft. cars, a band wagon and a ticket wagon. Ford Barclay will join Dec. 1. New York Clipper, November 13, 1886, p. 555.
1887:
Shield's Ten-cent Circus opens in Havana, Cuba, Feb. 3, for an indefinite period. New York Clipper, February 5, 1887, p. 738.
Shield's Circus roster: J. H. Shields, proprietor and manager; Lyman Shields, assistant manager and treasurer; J. E. Heffron, advance; F. A. Barclay . . . The show travels by rail and has ten head of stock. New York Clipper, February 26, 1887, p. 791.
Shield's Circus closed at Jackson, Miss., March 12, and left for Memphis, Tenn. Manager Shields bought four extra horses at Meridan, Miss. New York Clipper, March 19, 1887, p. 7.
W. S. Wheeler has joined Shields' Circus as clown. New York Clipper, April 30, 1887, p. 107.
Shields' New Great Southern, J. H. Shields, originator of 10c circuses. J. H. Shields, proprietor and manager; Lyman Shields, assistant manager; Miss Laura Shields, treasurer; W. H. Hopson, equestrian manager; Jno. E. Heffron, advance. The (3) Shields, brother act; (3) Morans, gymnasts; Miss Laura Shields, invisible slack wire; Master Artie Shields, high tight wire; Hughey George, black face comedian; (3) Mullen Bros. (3), Irish specialties; Miss Laura Shields, menage act; (3) Zamoras, Roman ladders; W. H. Hopson, character artist; Harry Brandon, contortionist and gymnast; (2) Zamoras, gymnasts; Miss May Moran, flying rings; Kennard Bros., specialty performers and acrobats; Harry Moran, trick tumbler; Prof. Geo. Wombold and son, posturing act; military band, 10 mouth pieces, under direction of Harry Emmings: W. H. Eberle, soloist; Hughey George, D. M. Snyder, W. F. Dean, S. M. Blades, Ed Kennard, Chas. Kennard, W. H. White, J. M. Mathews; H. L. Bush, manager reserved seats and concert; W. H. Hopson has charge of concert. . . . People stop at hotels, not boarding houses. New York Clipper, April 30, 1887, p. 112.
Shield's circus begins a three days stand at Warren, July 4th. The Titusville Herald says: "Shield's consolidated ten cent shows opened last evening. The Mexican marvels doing aerial acts. The trained dogs, juggling, tumbling and the clown are all good." The band, wagons, etc. have been tendered to the fire department for use in the parade on the fourths. The price of admission will be only 10 cents. An evening performance will be given after a pyrotechnic display and band concert outside the tents. Warren Ledger (Warren, PA), July 1, 1887, n.p.n.
The Shields Show will not go to Canada this season, but will play Pennsylvania, Ohio and then go South early in Fall. New people are the Three Mexican Marvels, Prof. Hooper's dog circus and Haley and Summerfield. The new leader is W. H. Eberly. New York Clipper, July 9, 1887, p. 258.
Shield's Southern Shows opened July 26, 1887, at Newport, Ky. The Ashton Bros. (3) on the horizonal bars and brother act; Miss Laura Shields and Master Artie, double wire act; Prof. Geo. Wambold and son's posturing act, magic cross, dancing barrel and flying globes; Billie Wheeler with his funny jokes; J. J. and Carrie Zamora, Mexicans, aerial act, double trapeze and perch. Riding dogs, riding somersault monkey, comic trick mules and tumbling. Mr. Emmings' band of ten mouthpieces have new instruments made to order, each representing a Shield. New York Clipper, August 6, 1887, p. 333.
The Three Ashtons (Harry, Will and George) joined Shields' Show at Newport, Ky. Master Artie Shields lately made his first appearance on the high wire as a Dude, and did his quick changes with success. New York Clipper, August 13, 1887, p. 338.
J. H. Shields of Shields' Circus reports big business in the South. Geo. Patterson and wife and the Patterson Bros. joined at Chattanooga, Tenn. New York Clipper, August 20, 1887, p. 359.
The Shields Dime Show opened at Denison, Tex., for three days Sept. 29. Harry Bradon and Hughey George joined 26. The Patterson Bros. left Oct. 1. The following joined 3: Leotard Bros. and Young, Tony White and Ed. May. New York Clipper, October 8, 1887, p. 468.
J. H. Shields' Circus opened in Houston, Tex., Oct. 17. Fred Barcley, the O'Brien Bros., Myers, the French clown, and the three jockey have joined. New York Clipper, October 29, 1887, p. 520.
1888:
Shield's circus will remain in Atlanta several days longer. Last night the circus band serenaded the Constitution, and Professor Eberle, the leader, called to show a cornet which he has just received from the Cohn manufactory. Atlanta Constitution (Atlanta, GA), April 1, 1888, p. 13.
Roster of Shield's Circus: John H. Shields, proprietor; Lyman Shields, manager; W. H. Hopson, equestrian director; J. E. Heffron, general agent; the Albion Bros., Kennard Bros., Cosier and Chaplin, Harry and May Moran, Harry Brandon, James Messenger, Willie Levet, the Wheelers, Master Artie Shields, Billy Munroe, performers, and a band of eight pieces under Howard Ebely. The Three Ashtons open with Shield's Circus June 4, for the season. New York Clipper, May 26, 1888, pp. 169, 171.
The New York and New Orleans show pulled its pegs last night and departed to make room for the Shields Southern circus. The Shields circus was here last season. They will remain here all week. Ben F. Dodson is in the city arranging for the appearance of the show. The three Ashton brothers in their bar and acrobatic act; Artie Shield, slack wire walker; Hary Moran, trick club swinger and tumbler; Professor Monroe with his trained horses. Galveston Daily News (Galveston, TX), October 14, 1888, n.p.n.
1890:
The following is the roster of the Shields Show: J. H. Shields, proprietor and manager; J. Oliver, advance; Will Evans and six assistants, billposters; King Bros., acrobats; Artie Shields, tight wire; William Batcheller, principal leaper; the Ty Bells, balancing perch and ladders; Melvin and Trover, double bars; a line of eight leapers, two doing doubles, and the following in the concert: Morris and Raymond, Mamie Elliot and the Elliott Bros. A band of six is led by Prof. Smith. Coal Oil Johnnie is boss canvasman with eleven assistants. Ben Parker attends to the lights. The show opened Jan. 1 at Jacksonville, Fla. New York Clipper, January 11, 1890, p. 732.
On the Road: J. H. Shield's, Key West, Fla., Jan 27-Feb. __. New York Clipper, February 1, 1890, p. 773.
Notes from J. H. Shield's Great Southern Show. We opened at Jacksonville, Fla., Jan. 1 and turned them away every day for ten days . . . Diavola Bros. . . . The Ty Bells' aerial act is a big act everywhere. The King Brothers are doing some ___ leaping. Melvin and Trover's grotesque table act . . . Artie(?) Shield, on the tight rope, attracts large crowds to the lot. . . . Floyd Trover is organizing a fishing party for next week, and anticipates some fine sport along the coast. We sail from Port Tampa for Key West, where we stay three weeks. We are having fine weather, and everybody is enjoying the sunny South. The ghost perambulates every Wednesday. . . . Everybody is anticipating a fine time at Key West, and all are going prepared to enjoy themselves. New York Clipper, February 1, 1890, p. 781.
Notes from J. H. Shield's Southern Show. We arrived at Key West by steamer from Tampa, Fla., Feb. 4(?). The trip was a very pleasant one and nobody was sick. We opened to the largest ___ of the season, having to close the doors half an hour before the performance. The tent was packed to the edge of the ring, and the show went unusually well. The King Bros., Melvin and Trover, and the Ty Bells made pronounced hits. . . . Harry King is practicing a new dancing rope act for next season. ___ Ty Bell was presented by his wife, Violetta Ty Bell, with an elegant diamond stud Feb. ?, and he reciprocated with a fine silk dress. . . . New York Clipper, February 15, 1890, p. 806.
Wanted, for Shields' Southern Shows, people in all branches of the business except riders, write to Macon, Ga. New York Clipper, March 29, 1890, p. 44.
Notes from J. H. Shields' Southern Show. We are touring South Carolina on our way North. The weather continues cool, and business is good. Senator Frank Le Ray, juggler and equilibrist, joined at Augusta, Ga., March 2?, and does a fine act. Gay(?) Boone joined at Savanah . . . Trover and King's still delight the colored contingent with their grotesque table act. . . . The Ty Bells are as popular as ever, and have a strong ___ of leaps. Prof. Riley and his troupe of performing dogs will be added about April 1?. Everybody is well, and the "white German" sneaks around regularly. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 75.
The Ty Bells closed with the Shields' Show April __ at Augusta, Ga., and are taking a brief rest at their Chicago home before opening for the season with Hunting's New York Circus. New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 103.
Notes from J. H. Shield's Southern Show. We are still playing to good business through Georgia. The weather continues fine. . . . Fred Trover bar performer; Harry King, acrobat; and Fran Le Ray, juggler, have joined hands. They will be known as Trover, King and Le Ray, and are now practicing a new triple act. Julian Ty Bell and wife were called home last month on account of illness of the latter's mother. . . . Floyd Trover has charge of the dressing room. The ghost makes regular weekly appearance, and all are well. New York Clipper, May 10, 1890, p. 139.
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Edward Shipp's - 1888, 1890-91, 1896, 1899, 1900, 1902-04
1888:
Edward Shipp, with the assistance of the Ducrow Family, Sam Bennett, Andy Smith and Clarinda Lambkin, have been giving performances in his ring barn at Petersburg, Ill., for the past eight weeks, with an admission of ten cents. New York Clipper, March 10, 1888, p. 832.
1890:
News from Shipp's Winter Circus. Business is on the increase. A novelty act goes from our place next season. Mrs. Jordan has accomplished the remarkable feat of turning a double somersault from a trapeze, being caught by her husband on an opposite trapeze. Ed. Shipp and wife (Julia Lowande) go with the Ringling Bros.' Show next season; Toto Siegrist, rider, with John McMahon; the Jordans, aerialists, with the Wallace & Anderson Shows; George Wilson, rider, with the Rogers Show. Every one here is well, and all enjoyed a merry Christmas. New York Clipper, January 18, 1890, p. 749.
Shipp's Winter Circus opened its season under flattering auspices at Petersburg, Ill., Dec. 1. This is its fourth year in that city. The people are Josie Ashton . . . Frank Ashton, W. S. Wheelr and others. Four shows a week are given. New York Clipper, December 20, 1890, p. 651.
1891:
Edward Shipp reports excellent business with his winter circus. Claude La Verne, Adair Bros. and Dot Adair joined recently. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
Omaha, Nebraska. Shipp & Ashton's Circus began an engagement at the Coliseum 13(?) to fair business. . . . New York Clipper, February 21, 1891, p. 786.
Edward Shipp closed his Winter circus at Petersburg, Ill., Feb. 3(?), and opened at Omaha, Neb., 12(?), with the company under the title of Shipp & Ashton's New York Circus. They are playing at the Coliseum, which will seat 8,000(?) people. The company is made up as follows: Julia Lowande and Josie Ashton, bareback equestriennes; Edward Shipp, bounding jockey; Herr Drayton, modern Hercules; Adair Bros. . . . Claude Laverne; Dot Adair and Frank Ashton. The company have five(?) head of ring horses, and report business is good. They will return to Petersburg, where they will play the balance of the season. New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 811.
Manager Edward Shipp writes from Petersburg, Ill.: "I will close my Winter Circus bere March __. This is my fourth season running a Winter Circus here in my ring barn, and business has been much larger than during any previous season. Myself and wife Julia Lowande, are engaged with the Sturtevant & Holland Show for the coming season. I have two well broken bareback horses, which we will use in our several acts next season." New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 49.
1896:
Edward Shipp's Petersburg Midwinter Circus opened the season December 10. The following people appeared at the opening: Julia Lowande, Cecil Lowande, Marietta Corriea, Mrs. Clarinda Parson, Master Harry Lamkin, Alex G. Lowande, Oscar Lowande, the Ty-Bells, Geo. W. Kline, Carl Mayo, Three Gerome Bros., Albert Howe, George Howe, John Corriea . . . Rosalind Stickney and her trained dogs, sheep and pony. James Hawkins, treasurer; J. C. Bishop, advertising agent; Edward Shipp, sole owner and manager. New York Clipper, January 4, 1896, p. 701.
1899:
Cedar Rapids will have a winter circus, the Edward Shipp company, in the Auditorium during the week of February 4. There will be a forty-foot ring in the center of the main floor. Mme. Julia Lowande, principal equestrienne; Cecil Lowande, principal sommersult rider; Alex G. Lowande, comic mule rider and bounding tight rope; the Adairs (Art and Dot), balancing perch, high stilt, comedy acrobats and clowns; Frank Oakley and Lon Moore, principal clowns; Amy and Harry LeVan, aerial act, flying rings and horizontal bars; Young Brothers, acrobats and grotesque tumblers; Rydon and Nelson, two ladies and two men, aerial act, double trapeze and leapers; "Carloosa," balancing ladder; Ab. Johnson, double sommersault leaper and clown. Cedar Rapids Evening Gazette (Cedar Rapids, IA), January 10, 1901, p. 7.
1900:
Edward Shipp's Show. The following people have been engaged for Edward Shipp's Indoor Circus at Bloomington, Ill., Jan. 21 to 26, viz." Miss Julia Lowande, principal riding act; Cecil Lowande, somersault riding act; Alex. G. Lowande, comic mule hurdle and bounding rope; the Adairs, balancing perch, high stilts, and comedy musical acrobats; Ed. and Maud Millette, head balancing trapeze, slack wire and double trapeze; Young Brothers, acrobats and comedy grotesque table act; Rydon and Nelson, aerial bars with casting; Rydon Sisters, double trapeze and gymnastics; Wm. De Von, principal double somersault leaper; Frank Oakley (Slivers), Art Adair and Lon Moore, clowns; Dan F. Cline, agent; H. A. Weaver, treasurer. Two more people will probably appear, but they had not been definitely engaged at the time we went to press. Billboard, December 29, 1900.
One of the features of Edward Shipp's Indoor Circus at Bloomington will be an exposition of the training quarters in a ring barn, showing the "mechanic" and demonstrating how riders are manufactured. A prize will be given to the boy who maintains his position on the horse's back three times around the ring. Edward Ship's indoor circus, wintering at Petersburg, Ill., will open at Bloomington, Ill., Jan. 21. He will carry twenty-five people, six ring horses and one mule. Louis J. Seybold is the manager. The regular prices for adults will be 25 and 50 cents. There will be a school children's matinee Saturday, Jan. 26, at which the price of admission will be reduced to 10 cents. Billboard, December 29, 1900.
1902: Auditorium, one week commencing January 27. Edward Shipp's Indoor Circus. The funniest one ring show in America. Forty of the best people in their line. 10 fine ring horses, 2 funny trick mules. Prices - 20c, 30c, 50c. [Advertisement] Cedar Rapids Evening Gazette (Cedar Rapids, IA), January 20, 1902, p. 3.
1903: "Shipp's Indoor Circus . . . Mr. Shipp himself is an old performer, though he now devotes his attention to the work of management. His first experience in the show business was in 1879, with Harry G. Lambkin's mammoth vaudeville company, on of the first traveling variety shows. He was with Cooper & Jackson's circus and menagerie seasons of '81, '82 and '83. During 1882(?) they made Texas and the northern part of Old Mexico, and took to that country the first elephant the Mexicans had ever seen. For the next three years they toured the West Indies and the Isthmus of Panama, giving a special performance before Ferdinand de Lesseps, the Panama canal promoter. Several of the company died in the Isthmus of yellow fever. They visited also the British and Duthc Guiana and the coast towns of Venezuela. In addition to this, Mr. Shipp has traveled in all the provinces of Canada and every state in the union. In 1891 and 1892 he was with Orrin Brothers' circus in Mexico, and appeared several times before President Diaz.
1904: "Dangers in Circus Life. Some of Shipp's People Tell Their Experiences . . .
A Gazette reporter dropped into the Auditorium yesterday while the various
members of Shlpp's Indoor Circus company were at their daily practice, work that is studiously and almost religiously gone through with each day, no matter where they are. The performers had just completed setting the runway for the leaps under the supervision of Peter Bell, the double somesaultist. Much care is used in the erection of this runway, as the slightest deviation from the established way of setting would subject the performers to a bad fall. In order to accomplish a successful somersault, the performer must hit the board at just a certain angle and by doing this he gets the best lift and this enables him to go the proper distance and at the same time control
his body. To be a good leaper requires years of practice and then an unstinted supply of nerve. Mr. Peter Bell, - who is at present with the Shipp show, has had a long and varied experience in this line and some of his stories are thrilling. Mr. Bell hails originally from Italy, where he was for several years a permanent member of Circo Pagini. He began leaping with this aggregation and at an early age he accomplished for the first time the double somersault, which at that time was considered an impossibility. He toured all over the continent and then came to this country for the great Barnum & Bailey circus at a handsome salary.
Shipp & Feltus - 1918-19, 1923
1918:
The Shipp & Feltus Circus, now touring South America, will conclude the second year of its present tour on February 9. Just two years ago on that date the show gave its first performance at Port Limon, Costa Rica, and has been showing continually ever since. Today it is playing Buenos Aires. The present tour has extended thru Central America, Panama, and all the way down the West coast, touching all the principal cities of Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia and Chile, then across the Andes Mountains into the Argentine Republic. Playing across Argentine, the show entered the State of Rio Grande in Brazil, then south thur Urguay to its capital, Monteviedo, and then Buenos Aires. . . . If all plans carry the present tour will last nearly another year and a half, bringing them home to the United States in the spring of 1919. With one or two exceptions, the company remains the same as when it left New Orleans. However, the Jardys and Oscar Haas, performers, joined at Antofogasta, Chile; Will Peterson and John McQuaide, musicians, joined at Lima, Peru. . . . Billboard, January 26, 1918, p. 30.
Thomas Cullen, representative of the Shipp & Feltus Circus, arrived from Buenos Aires, South America on the steamship Vaulan. His mission is to purchase animals and book acts for that growing circus, which tours the continent south of us. Billboard, March 2, 1918, p. 5.
A letter from Tan Araki, of the Shipp & Feltus Circo, touring South America, dated August 20: "We came to Brazil Jun 12 from Argentine. The show had to travel by rail on account of the steamship company refusing to handle any shows, as they were short of steamers. The trip by rail to Sae Paulo was tiresome. We had to pass through three different States, all Brazil. The show made some towns between, but he jumps were long and the show lost many days enroute here. The show was looking forward to coffee season when it headed for Brazil, but there has been a disappointment, as all the coffee was killed by the frost last June. Business has been rather small with Shipp & Feltus since they left Argentine. We had to contend with cold and rainy weather until recently. It is likely the show will change its route and go straight north if business falls this week." Billboard, November 23, 1918, p. 52.
1919:
A dispatch from Messrs. Shipp and Feltus aboard the S. S. Abangaret, via radio, May 5, states that they closed their tour April 26 at Kingston, Jamaica, and would arrive in New York Tuesday morning of this week. Billboard, May 10, 1919, p. 82.
Edward Shipp and Roy Feltus, with their families, arrived in New York May 6. The closing of the Shipp & Feltus Show brought to an end what is probably the longest continuous tour ever made by a circus company. The trip extended for three years, two months and seven days. The tour opened February 19, 1916 at Port Limon, Costa Rica, after which a tour of Panama, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chili, Argentine and Brazil was made. On the return trip home stops were made at the West Indian Islands of Barbados, Trinidad and Jamaica. In a little more than eleven years they have succeeded in establishing themselves as the first organization of this kind which tours those countries. Arrangements were made and quarters established at Kingston, the closing point, where all the circus material is in storage and the horses looked after on a big farm. Mr. Shipp will go home to Springfield, Ill., and Mr. Feltus to Bloomington, Ind. The next tour, which starts next winter, will last two years and include only the large cities of South America. Billboard, May 17, 1919, p. 36.
From Kingston, Jamaica, July 21, "Scotty," Alexander Selkirk says: "I am still in the tropics with the Shipp & Feltus Circus, in charge of the circus property which was left behind." Billboard, August 9, 1919, p. 45.
Edward Shipp and Roy Feltus are making preparations for their next tour of South America, which starts about January, 1920. This will mark the twelfth year of the Shipp & Feltus partnership, and the commencement of their seventh tour of the Latin-American countries. General agent Ricardo Fernandez in in New York making plans for the tour. The Shipp & Feltus Circus will play all the smaller cities under their own tents, but most of the larger capitals of South America will be played in buildings specially constructed for circus, where the engagements last from four to nine weeks. Contracts for these buildings in Valpariso and Santiago, Chile, Buenos Aires and Rio Janeiro, have been closed by Mr. Fernandez. Billboard, August 30, 1919, p. 40.
More on the 1919 Shipp & Feltus show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down or use find.
1923:
One of the women members of the Flying Dunbars left New York a few days ago for South America,
after completing the purchase and attending to the shipping of a complete circus equipment of canvas and seats. This will be used for a new circus touring South America begining this spring, headed by the Dunbars and featuring Schreyer's Trained Animal show. The Dunbars have been In South America for a considerable time with their own show and traveling with various native outfits. With the end of the current season the old firm of Shipp & Fietz [sic Feltus], which has toured the Latin-American republics for years, will be disbanded, the principals, old showmen of the
States retiring. The Dunbar show, according to present plans, will take up the Shipp & Feltz routes, which covered the whole southern continent and usually covered two years or more. Variety, March 1, 1923, p. 13.
The Shipp & Feltus Circus, after a three-year tour of South America, covering Peru, Bolivia, Argentine, Uruguay, British Guiana, Colombia, Brazil, Trinidad, Panama and Jamaica, closed at the latter port, where the entire outfit was disposed of, in preference to paying the freight charges to New York. The acts returned to New York, April 25, including the Lloyds (5)
riding act, Yetta and Manuel, Worthy Dufty, Chang Yen Kong and Co., Rohelia Inza, Johnny
Judge, Aerial Wests, Sam Nelson and Si Kitchie, equestrian director. The tour, according to the performers, was a financial success, but one unpleasant incident marring the tip. This related to the difference in the money rate of exchange. All had American money contracts calling for eight milreis to the dollar. This normal rate changed and the acts were told that in order to continue they must accept a rate of
four milreis (about 50 cents American) on the dollar, the closing of the show being the alternative. Being far from home, most of the
acts stood for this, but Tan Ariki, Casting Dunbars, Loos and Loos and the Mangean Troupe left the show and returned to the States. An attempt to effect an adjustment may be made. Variety, May 3, 1923, p. 8.
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Short & Quinlan's - 1896
Roster and notes from Short & Quinlan's Big Wagon Shows. F. L. Short and Joseph Quinlan, sole owners; Joseph Quinlan, manager; F. L. Short, treasurer; Faustino Sanchez, equestrian director; Jack Boyle, supt. working department; Pete Jenkins, musical director, and Harry ___ with two assistants is routing the show straight through Dixie's Land. The Sanchez, Marie and Faustino, are a big card, and Marie's contortion act keeps them guessing. The Short Bros. on the horizontal bars and brother act. Joe Quinlan makes the audience laugh whenever he appears. Neil Conway is a success in his wire act and juggling. Nellie Monroe, Spanish rings and single traps; Quinlan and Faustino, return act. The concert is headed by Billy Nelson, the black face moke. Jack Boyle is boss canvas man. . . . New York Clipper, September 5, 1896, p. 421.
Also see Joe Quinlan's
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Shott Bros. - 1900, 1902
1900: Bluefield, W. Va., May 18. A Pocahantas yesterday James Wilburn, an aeronaut, with Shott Bros.' circus, made a balloon ascension. When three thousand feet high he jumped, but the parachute failed to open and his body dashed to the ground. Utica Herald-Dispatch (Utica, NY), May 18, 1900, p. 1.
1902:
Wm. M. Shott, of Shott Bros.' Show, who was instantly killed at Graham, Va., where the show was exhibiting, May 14, 1902, while attempting to board a moving train. He was known professionally as Morallo [sic Marallo]. He was 26 years of age. Billboard, May 24, 1902, p. 6.
Huntington, W. Va. The Shott Bros.' Circus closed their season on last Friday, Juney 27, at Ceredo, a few miles below this city, as they were billed in the coal fields, and as strikes were on in their territory, they concluded to close. Several members of the Shott Shows joined the Freed European Shows in this city June 27. Billboard, July 5, 1902, p. 8.
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Showles & Co. - 1873
Showles & Co.'s Grand Triple Combination is announced to perform at Bridgeport, Conn., Jan. 17th and 18th. The officers and company: J. Showles & Co., directors; S. M. Johnson, treasurer; . . . A. B. Stow, contracting agent; Mons. Datalie, the "man with the iron jaw;" Mlle. Angela, the "female Sampson;" Young Zepher and ___ Petit; Jacob Showles in equestrian acts; Master Willie Showles, bareback pony rider; Mrs. Emma Showles, equestrian; and equestrian monkey, "Brazilian Chief;" the comic mules, "Pete" and Barney;" the trick horse "American Eagle;" the ponies "Black Crook" and "Lalla Rookh;" and Laselle and Milson(?), also King and La Fleur, gymnasts and acrobats. They carry with them an equestrian ring, which can be placed upon the stage. New York Clipper, February 1, 1873, p. 351.
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Shreve, Phillips & Michie - 1892
Wanted, a partner with $500 capital to put on a first class wagon show in the West. I will put up more than dollar for dollar. Will have to have a partner, as I cannot be with the show all the time myself. Open May 1(?). I have sixteen(?) head of fine horses already on hand. Prof. Lowanda, Hurley, South Dakota. New York Clipper, February 20, 1892, p. 838.
Wanted, for Shreve, Michie & Phillips' 3 Consolidated Wild West Shows. A talking and singing clown and people in all branches of circus business. Open April __. Write Hurley, South Dakota. New York Clipper, February 27, 1892, p. 853.1892: Wanted, for Shreve, Michie & Phillips' 3 Mammoth Consolidated Shows. Leapers, tumblers, gymnasts, aerial ___ of all kinds. Riders and musicians who play brass and string. Also a good troupe of trained dogs. Would like about 4 good Japanese who do juggling and aerial acts, a good canvas man, 4 and 6 horse drivers. Sideshow and other privileges to let, candy stands. Would like to buy about ___ cages of animals, one elephant and ___ camels, and a good round top canvas for menagerie. This show will open April ___. Shreve, Michie & Phillips' 3 Consolidated Shows, Hurley, South Dakota. New York Clipper, February 27, 1892, p. 853.
Wanted, boss canvasman and assistants, musicians who play brass, sideshow people and performers in all branches of circus business. Also want a man to take charge of sideshow. Address Shreve, Phillips & Michie, Hurley, South Dakota. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 47.
Call. All performers, musicians, canvasmen, grooms, teamsters and sideshow people engaged for Shreve, Phillips & Michie's Three Consolidated Shows report at Hurley, So. Dakota, not later that April 2?. No Sunday trains to Hurley. Would like to hear from one more good double trapeze team. Shreve, Phillips & Michie. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 62.
Notes from Shreve, Phillips & Michie's Shows. W. A. Edwards has resigned as business manager of the ___ Novelty Co., to accept a position as general agent for the above shows. We open our season at Hurley, S.D., April 26(?); travel by wagon . . . Roster: Shreve, Phillips & Michie, sole proprietors; W. A. Edwards, general agent, with five assistants; Prof. Lowanda, general director . . . John Sargent, boss hostler; Chas. W. Cardello, Pete Rogan and wife, Madame Lowanda, W. B. Cook and wife . . . J. F. Howard, Prof. Robt. Scott, C. W. Myers, ___ and Gorman, Baughman and Jenkins, J. F. Wilcox, Fred McM?ster, C. J. Fay, Clark and ___, Harry Austin and wife, Chauncey Powell, Norton Bros., Dock Hickey(?) in charge of sideshow, and band of twelve pieces under the direction of Prof. C. E. Taft. We travel North and South Dakota. There is a reunion of ___ here on our opening day, and already we have sold four hundred seats of the opening. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 82.
Wanted, for Shreve, Phillips & Michie's Circus, contracting agent, also ten more musicians. Performers and sideshow people. Address Shreve, Phillips & Michie, Hurley, South Dakota. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 92.
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Shropshire's - 1914, 1919-1921
1914:
James Shropshire is now the owner of Miller Bros.' Show and has changed the name to Shropshire's Greater Show. Billboard, September 26, 1914, p. 31.
1919:
Wanted, Silver Plate Circus, Shropshire & Wolf. People in all branches of circus business, aerial and perch acts, hand and foot jugglers, wire act, clowns, Wild West people. People with stock and other acts suitable for circus. Oriental dancers and ticket sellers, musicians on all instruments. Bosses and working men in all departments. General agent. Privileges to let, candy stands, pillows, photos, farm paper. This is a wagon circus. Open March 1. Musician address O. E. Duenweg. Privileges address Philip Wolf. All others address Jas. Shropshire, Shreveport, Louisiana. [Advertisement] Billboard, February 15, 1919, p. 74.
The Silver Plate Shows are at present touring Northern Louisiana. Manager James Shropshire has just returned to the show from St. Louis, where he purchased ten head of mules and four wagons, which make it a fifteen wagon show. The Irwins, three in number, joined at Dixie. The lineup: James Shropshire, manager; Philip Wolf, secretary-treasurer and superintendent of privileges; H. O. Dowty, general agent; Harry Young, contracting agent; Prof. O. R. Dunwig, musical director, with a band of eight pieces; Irwin Family, trapeze and wire artists; Mrs. James Shropshire, iron jaw; Herman James, producing clown, with two assistants; Frank Welch, in charge of tickets; George Marion, lot superintendent; Slim Hiresbe, boss canvasman; Charles Grove, boss hostler. Mr. Shropshire also has the annex, in which are found Mrs. Shropshire, mind reading; Shrophire's pony, Little Nemo, and George Brown's untamable lion. H. Burke is in charge of tickets, and Kelley is manking 'em step lively with the sheet. Billboard, March 15, 1919, p. 61.
The Parentos, novelty acrobats and equilibrists, have joined the Silver Plate Circus in Mississippi for the winter season. Billboard, November 22, 1919, p. 53.
1920:
Wanted for Shropshire's Motorized Circus. Performers doing two or more acts; single and double traps, wire, perch, ladder, contortion and other good aerial acts. Clowns. Can place family doing several acts. Musicians, cornet, tuba, baritone, slide trombone, clarinet. Want boss canvasman. Can place pit show. All wires Humboldt, Tennessee. James Shropshire, mgr. [Advertisement] Billboard, May 15, 1920, p. 88.
1921:
Maysville, Ky., March 10. Shropshire's Motorized Shows will go out this season somewhat larger in all departments. It will be one of the fastest moving overland shows on the road, playing one-day stand. The show will open April 18, and play the coal and oil fields of Kentucky. With the show will be Mr. and Mrs. Bob Nelson, contortion and clowning; Two Irwins (their third season), head balancing, trapeze and swinging perch, wire and juggling; Joe Montazell, double trapeze, wire and revolving ladder; Harry DeCleo, two acts and a concert number. J. S. Robertson will have charge of the annex and George Caldwell the tickets. Prof. O. E. Duenweg will have the band. Jocy Day will have the privileges. J. McKinnon will be on the staff, and George Jennier will be on the advance. Blacky King will be lot superintendent. Ab Jackson, boss property man, making his second season; Jeff Richardson cookhouse, Harmon James is in charge of the cars and trucks, his third season. The show will be all motorized with no teams, and will carry about thirty-five people. James Shropshire is manager and Mrs. Shropshire secretary and treasurer. Billboard, March 19, 1921, p. 76.
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Sibley's - 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909-1910
After playing a four weeks' engagement in Havana, Cuba, the W. K. Sibley's Shows filled a week's engagement in New Orleans, Louisiana, and on April 19 left for Los Angeles, California, where they will open about May 1. They will play along the coast to British Columbia, and then across the continent. Billboard, May 1, 1909, p. 17.
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Sieber & Co.'s - 1887-89, 1891
• Also see W. L. Cole's.
1887:
Roster of Geo. Sieber & Co.'s Show and Museum: Geo. Sieber & Co., proprietors; J. Barry, manager; Sig. Harris, equestrian director, with the following performers: Louis Decastro, Sig. Harris, the Leons and troupe of dogs, Stone Bros., Frankie Barrie, Alvord(?) Bros., James Delivan and the Montville Sisters. The show is touring through Nebraska. New York Clipper, June 11, 1887, p. 198.
• Information on the 1887 Sieber & Howe's Great London Circus, owner George Sieber, is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1990, Vol. 34, No. 3, pp. 37-38.
1888:
Wanted, for Sieber & Co.'s International Railroad Ten-cent Show and Museum. Trapeze team who do other specialties, troupe of dogs, contortionists, singing clown, concert people. Address J. M. Barry, manager, North Topeka, Kansas. New York Clipper, March 10, 1888, p. 840.
Roster of Siebert & Co.'s [sic Sieber] Show: Siebert & Cole, proprietors; J. M. Barry, manager; Charles Hill, advance; Dick Allen, boss canvasman; Prof. J. W. Cook, sideshow manager; Fred Leslie, manager of amusement. Performers: the Lingards, the Moreland Sisters, Lew Walters, Stone Bros., Harris and Stimson, Master White, Murray and Gray, and Prof. Wilbur's band of eight pieces. They have an eighty foot round top, with a twenty-three foot middle piece. New York Clipper, April 21, 1888, p. 89.
• Information on the 1888 Sieber & Co.'s International Ten Cent Circus in in Bandwagon, January-February, 1991, Vol. 35, No. 1, pp. 47-48.
1889: All people engaged for Siebers & Co.'s Great International Circus, Museum, Wild West and Trained Animal Shows, will report at Court House Square, Topeka, Kansas, April __, for rehearsal. J. M. Barry, manager. Wanted, a Punch and Judy man and a few more performers. J. M. Barry, Crane Street, Topeka, Kansas. New York Clipper, April 20, 1889, p. 99.
1891:
Wanted immediately for Sieber & Co.'s Circus, Museum and Menagerie, for long season, people in all branches of the circus business that can do two or more specialties. Also concert people and four horse drivers. Address Geo. Sieber & Co., Hermann, Mo. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 322.
Sieber & Co.'s Circus and Menagerie closed their season of thirty-one weeks at Huntington, Ark., Nov. 13, a successful season. They will ship to winter quarters at Topeka, Kan. New York Clipper, November 28, 1891, p. 632.
• After his career as a showman, George Sieber tried several occupations before becoming a manager for some of his mother's rental properties in Topeka, Kansas. On June 24, 1911 he was shot and killed by Patrick Hoyan. He was buried in Topeka. Bandwagon, May-June, 1992, Vol. 36, No. 3, p. 35.
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Siebrand Bros.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1949.
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Siegrist & Howe Show
Frank De Laney joined the Siegrist & Howe Show, under management of J. R. W. Hennessey, in Savoy, Texas, Aug. 17. New York Clipper, September 2, 1882, p. 384.
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Siegrist & Silbon Shows
1922: Chicago, June 21. The Siegrist & Silbon shows were organized two years ago by Toto Siegrist and Charles Silbon, partners in an aerial acrobatic act. The show was sold last fall to C. J. Sedlmayr, with its winter quarters in Kansas City. . . . the carnival is a good, clean outdoor amusement. Variety, June 23, 1922, p. 9.
• This was a combination circus and carnival show circa 1920s, Carl J. Sedlmayr, owner and manager. Bandwagon, July-August, 1988, p. 43.
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Silvan-Drew Circus - 1927-29 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1926-1929
1927: Silvan Drew Circus to exhibit at Warsaw, July 18. A one ring circus with trained dogs and ponies, riding monkeys, menage horses, acrobats, gymnasts, aerial performers, wire walkers, contortionists and a dozen clowns. Watch for the parade. Wyoming County Times (Warsaw, NY), July 14, 1927, p. 1.
1928: The Silvan-Drew Circus and Trained Wild Animal Arena has completed arrangements for two performances in Ballston Spa, May 23. As a prelude to the arenic program, a panoramic spectacle of "Humpty Dumpty in Fairyland" will be given. The show is brought to a close by "The Girl in Red," another feature. Saratogian (Sarasota Springs, NY), May 10, 1928, p. 11.
1929:
The Silvan-Drew circus is planning to show at Stamford on July 15. This circus specializes in novelties in animal training, although it includes acrobats and the other features common to circuses. An unusual mystery incident, "The Girl in Red," will mark the climax of the exhibition. Stamford Mirror-Recorder (Samford, NY), July 4, 1929, n.p.n.
The Silvan-Drew circus, which played to a crowded audience in Waterville last Tuesday, has enjoyed phenominal growth since it was organized four years ago. The circus' manager is Al Wheeler. There are 24 regular circus acts besides the trained dogs, ponies and other animals. The circus side show is said to have two of the largest lions in America. Several members of the troop have played in regular vaudeville. Miss Riddle, trapeze artist, has been on the Keith Circuit, as have the Levines, in the double trapeze act. Waterville Times (Waterville, NY), July 11, 1929, p. 1.
• An article on the 1927-28 Silvan-Drew Motorized Circus, Andrew Watchter, owner, is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1986, Vol. 30, No. 6, pp. 28-38.
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Silver Bros. - 1933-39 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1933-1941
• Article on Silver Bros. Circus, 1933-1939, with information on the career of owner Sam Dock, is online in Bandwagon, May-Jun 1966 (scroll down or use find).
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Silver Family Shows - 1909, 1910-14, 1916-18
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1899-1922
1909:
Silver Family Show: Bert Silver, proprietor; Bert and G. Earl Silver, managers; J. Frank Merrill, general agent. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 81.
The roster of performers this season with the Bert Silver Circus, covering Michigan territory, are: Three Burns Brothers, bars and tumblers; Eight Silvers, musicians and performers; "Sandy" Copeland, aerialist and gymnast; Roy Melva, trapeze and aerial; and Jesse Sellero, slack wire and juggler. Two clowns and a contortionist will be added. New York Dramatic Mirror, May 1, 1909, p. 14.
1910: The Bert Silver Family Shows closed their tenting season of seventeen weeks, September 3, at Alma, Mich., and are now at headquarters, Crystal, Mich. The tent will be enlarged for the next season by the addition of another middle piece. Thirty-five people, fifteen wagons and cars, and thirty head of horses will be carried. Billboard, October 22, 1910.
1911: Roster of the Bert Silver Model Tent Show and Family Band and Orchestra: Bert Silver, proprietor and manager; G. Earl Silver, assistant manager; Mrs. Bert Silver, treasurer; Sandy Copeland and Company, triple bar casting act; the Klippels, acrobats; DeMar Bros., double trapeze and wire; Paul Wentzel, acrobat and trick house; London Blunt, contortionist and single trapeze; Joe Price, clown; DeLando, musical act; Silver Bros., jugglers. The outfit will carry thirty horses and fifteen wagons. The season opens at Crystal, Mich., about May 10. Billboard, April 8, 1911, p. 24.
1912: Silver Family Show - Bert Silver, prop.; Bert and G. Earl Silver, mgrs.; Mrs. Bert Silver, treas.; C. E. Silver, auditor; George Brooks, general agent; L. S. Silver, supt. privileges; Bert ?ilver, musical director; G. E. Silver, supt. reserved seat tickets; James Bolts, supt. canvas; C. D. Grout, boss hostler; Wilbur Cook, supt. commissary dept.; Jas. Boltz, supt. working crew. Show opens at Crystal, Mich. May 10. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
1913: Silver Family Show - Silver Family, proprietors; Bert Silver, manager; G. Earl Silver, assistant manager; Mrs. Bert Silver, treasurer; Miss Laura Silver, secretary; C. E. Silver, auditor; Ed. Cross, general agent; Sandy Copeland, equestrian director; Dick Silver, general superintendent; Ruby Silver, musical director; Pearl Silver, superintendent reserved seat tickets. Show opens at Crystal, Mich., about May 10. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
1914: Silver Family Show: Bert C. E. Silver, proprietor & manager; G. Earl Silver, assistant manager; Mrs. Bert Silver, treasurer; Dick Silver, secretary; Miss Laura Silver, auditor; Ed Cross, general agent, special agent & press agent; Sandy Copeland, equestrian director; Ruby Silver, supt. privileges; Bert Silver, musical director; Pearl Silver, supt. reserved seat tickets; G. E. Silver, supt. canvas; Doc Haffoner, boss hostler; G. Earl Silver, announcer. Show opens at Crystal, Mich., May 9. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 49.
1916:
Silver Family Show No. 1. Bert Silver, proprietor and manager; G. Earl and Dick Silver, asst. managers; Miss Laura Silver, treasurer; Miss Pearl Silver, secretary; Miss Ruby Silver, auditor; John Bramblee, general agent and advance press agent; Ed Cross, press agent back with show; G. Earl Silver, general supt.; Bert Silver, supt. privileges and musical director; Dick Silver, supt. reserved seat tickets; J. H. Simonson, supt. canvas; Dick Silver, supt. props; G. Earl Silver, supt. working crew; Ed Cross, announcer; 10 auto trucks and cars. Show opens at Greenville, Michigan, May 10. Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 115.
Bert Silver's Model Tent Show, No. 2. Copeland & McIntosh, proprietors; Sandy Copeland, manager; Glen McIntosh, asst. manager; Mrs. Frances Silver Copeland, treasurer; Bessie McIntosh, secretary; David Stewart, general agent; Paul Wanzel, equestrian director; Leo Bannister, supt. privileges; B. E. Darfer, musical director; Delbert Bannister, supt. canvas; Doc Heifner, boss hostler; Claud Van Velaro, supt. props; James Baltz, supt. working crew; 10 wagons. Show opens at Crystal, Michigan, May 10. Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 115.
1917: Silver Family Show - Bert C. E. Silver, prop.; G. Earl Silver, mgr.; Dick Silver, asst. mgr.; Miss Laura Silver, treas.; Miss Ruby Silver, secy.; Ed Cross, gen. agt.; Bert Silver, musical dir.; fifteen auto trucks and cars. Show opens at Crystal, Mich., May 15. Billboard, March 24, 1917, pp. 141, 143.
1918:
Winter quarters. Silver Family Show, Bert Silver, manager, Crystal, Mich. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 55.
Silver Family and Bert Silver Model Tent Show. Bert C. E. Silver, proprietor, manager, musical director; G. Earl and Richard E. Silver, asst. managers; Mrs. Bert Silver, treasurer; Laura Silver, secretary; Ruby Silver, auditor; Sandy Copeland, equestrian director. Twelve auto trucks and cars. Show opens at Crystal, Mich. Billboard, March 30, 1918, p. 65.
• (1935) Bert Silver's Reconstructed Theatre Formally Opened. Greenville, Mich. Bert Silver, one of the oldest exhibitors in the United States, and a showman for 65 years, held the formal opening of his New Silver Theatre here. Bert, of an old circus and show family, continued his shows here during the building of the new theatre, in a tent. Bert is listed as president and treasurer of the New Silver, with H. Bob Martin, his son-in-law, vice-president, and Mrs. Martin, his daughter, as secretary. Boxoffice, August 31, 1935, p. 14.
• Bert C. E. Silver, born December 9, 1860 at Fowler, New York. His father, Dick Silver, had a minstrel show in New York. When Bert was 35, he organized his first shows. He had a variety of shows, including the Silver Family Concert Company, Silver Family Swiss Bell Ringers and Concert Company, Silver Brother's Circus, and Silver Family Circus. In 1916 he had two traveling circuses on the road in Michigan, one with 36 people, 40 horses and the other with 52 people, 5 trucks with trailers and 12 cars. The latter claimed to be the first circus to travel exclusively by motor trucks and cars. Boxoffice, March 7, 1936, p. 44.
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Sinclair's London Shows - 1893-94
1893:
Sinclair's London Circus will open at Baltimore, April 17. Circus tent, 89ft. round top with 40ft. middle piece; animal and illustion tent, dressing tent, four pole horse tent and one cook tent. Nelson Sinclair, owner and manager; Ellsworth Conser, treasurer; Harry Willis, advance; Frank Howard, boss hostler; Tommy Smith, boss canvasman, and Joseph Smith, cook tent. Performers: Joe Miller, equestrian director; Prof. Wilson's trained ponies, six in number; Nellie Carlisle's dog circus, including five racing hounds and the trotting dog Prince; the Francis family, aerialists; John Howard, dancing tight rope; Sinclair, balancing wire; Beulah, juggler, contortion . . . Little Kerney, Skip Shears and Joe Miller, clowns; Franklin Bros., horizontal bars and three high brother act; Ed Jenking, pyramid act; and Prof. Radcliffe's band and orchestra. The entire outfit is new, made for Mr. Sinclair by Goss & Co., of Detroit. New York Clipper, April 15, 1893, p. 84.
Sinclair's London Shows will have all new wagons next season, the contract to furnish the same having been awarded. The wagons will be built in such a manner as to provide comfortable and ??? sleeping apartments for the canvasmen. Every inch of canvas, incluing the big top, animal top, dressing top, sideshow top, horse tents and Hotel De Sinclair, will be brand new and made to Mr. Sinclair's order. All the harness and parade trappings are now being made and promise to be an innovation in that line. New York Clipper, November 18, 1893, p. 595.
1894:
Sinclair's London Shows want people in every branch of the circus business. Nelson Sinclair, ???? Penna. Ave. Baltimore, Md. New York Clipper, March 31, 1894, p. 64.
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Sipe, Dolman & Blake's - 1897, Sipe & Blake's - 1898 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1897-1900
1897:
Sipe, Dolman & Blake's Dog, Pony and Monkey Show will exhibit in Logansport on May 17th. 100 intelligent dogs, 50 educated ponies, 25 performing monkeys. The collection comprises fifty Shetland ponies. The most diminitive are two baby colts but three hands high. Admission 20 cents, children 10 cents. Logansport Daily Reporter (Logansport, IN), May 14, 1897, n.p.n.
1897: Sipe, Dolman & Blake will present on June 3 at Marshall. Marshall will remember the visit of this show in 1895. A feature of the show is the addition of a troupe of 25 performing monkeys taught by Prof. Blake. Daily Chronicle (Marshall, MI), June 2, 1897, n.p.n.
1898: The Sipe and Blake's Dog and Pony Show will give exhibitions here today. They have 122 dogs, 98 ponies and 27 monkeys. The show has the smallest horse, called "Independence," is perfectly harness broke and weighs only 86 pounds. His part of the entertainment is difficult, plays leap frog with "King," a great Dane dog. Logansport Chronicle (Logansport, IN), April 30, 1898, n.p.n.
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Sipe's Dog & Pony Show - 1900-01 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1901-1904
1900:
Geo. Sipe's dogs and ponies will take the road in about five weeks. They will not be under canvas, but will play opera houses. Sipe had to give so much attention to the new opera house which he is building that the dog and pony show suffered. W. J. Maxwell now has it in hand and is booking it. Billboard, May 12, 1900, p. 5.
Opened at Frankfort, Indiana, August [sic?] 15 (fair date). Maxwell writes that a second consignment of monkeys arrived May 16. He says that the cages are all done and that Wallace's painter is now at work on them. Billboard, May 26, 1900, p. 5.
1901: Sipe Shows. The originator of this style of entertainment started from a small town in Indiana to present a series of educated animals. At the beginning there were ten ponies, twenty-five dogs and live monkeys. A the present time the show has one hundred and eighty-five ponies, two hundred and fifty dogs, two hundred monkeys and forty-three miniature cages of Lilliputian beasts from the unknown jungles. Africa and Asia and all foreign countries have been scoured for little dwarfs of all kinds. At 10 o'clock through the principal thoroughfares of this city, a pagent will meander along to astonish the spectators. Two performances are given daily. The Sipe circus will be in Fort Wayne May 1st. Fort Wayne News (Fort Wayne, IN), April 29, 1901, p. 4.
• Information on the various Sipe shows 1897-1904, and its demise in 1904, is online in Bandwagon, January 1954 (scroll down).
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J. S. Sipes' - 1921
J. S. Sipes Animal Show. J. S. Sipes, proprietor, manager; Mrs. Jack Sipes, secretary, treasurer; J. B. Stone, general agent; Harry Allen, local contractor; D. A. Hastings, manager sideshow; Fred Ley, equestrian director; Ervon Gersmehl, musical director; Oliver Hastings, supt. canvas; Harry Sipes, supt. lights; Tom Whiteside, supt. animals; ten trucks. Show opens Mulvane, Kansas, April 11. Billboard, March 19, 1921, p. 123.
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Sivley & Smith Show - 1887
Sivley & Smith Mammoth Dime Show is seeking circus performers in all lines, except riders; a few musicians; also lady to do wire ascension outside. The show makes three day and play week stands. It will open May 12, and we travel by steamboats. Address Chas. J. Smith, Havana, Ill. New York Clipper, May 7, 1887, pp. 126, 127.
The roster of Robinson's Dime Circus: Sivley & Smith, proprietors; Harry Sivley, treasurer; Geo. M. Nagle, equestrian director. The Kling Family, Clarence Eletrich, Geo. M. Nagle, Mlle. Josie, M. Nagle, Eustis Burke and Rice, Frank Hart, Elmer Rhoades and others. The concert people are C. G. Smith, Mlle. Josie, Baby Myrtle, Frank Hart, Darrell leads a band of eight. Geo. Day, boss canvasman, has six assistants; Tony Kennedy, boss property man with two assistants; Jack Stewart has the inside privileges. The show is working week and makes three day stands, travels in its own steamboar, using a 110ft. round top with 50ft. middle piece. New York Clipper, June 18, 1887, pp. 214-215.
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Skerbeck Family - 1892, 1897-99
1892:
Wanted, for the Skerbek Family Wagon Show, people in all branches of the circus business for every department. Also want to buy a second hand band wagon and uniforms. Address Frank Skerbek, Dorchester, Wis. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 108.
On the road, miscellaneous: Skerbeck Family, Weyawega, Wis. June 1, Manawa 2, New London 3, Hortonville 4, Appleton 6, Kaukauna 7, Brillion 8, Manitowoc 9. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
Wanted for Sherbeck Circus, performers to double in concert. Frank Sherbeck, as per route. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 204.
On the road, miscellaneous: Skerbeck Family, Brillion, WI June 8, Manitowoc 9. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
The Skerbeck Family Circus closed their season Oct. _. New York Clipper, October 22, 1892, p. 522.
1897: Roster of Skerbeck Family & Co.'s One Ring Circus. Frank Skerbeck, proprietor and manager; Joe Skerbeck, equestrian director; Gus Skerbeck, principal leaper, tumbler and bareback rider; Anton Skerbeck, principal clown; Four Skerbeck Sisters, contortion and riding acts; Martin Nelson, juggler and equilibrist; Kohl Bros., horizontal bars and brother act; Three Franzie Bros., Roman ladder and Mexican ladder acts; Two Meyers, aerialists; Joe Skerbeck, high and slack wire; Chas. Richardson, Irish, Dutch and black face comedian. . . . New York Clipper, May 29, 1897, p. 204.
1898: Notes from the Skerbeck Family and Co. One Ring Circus. We are in our third week since our opening at Dorchester, Wisconsin, playing the northern part of Wisconsin for four weeks longer, then on boat runs in Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. We have the Dwyer Bros.' balloon ascension and parachute jumping. . . . Frank Skerbeck is proprietor and manager; Joe Skerbeck, equestrian director; Gus Skerbeck, bareback rider; Anton Skerbeck, principal clown; Miss Mandy Skerbeck, contortion; the Skerbeck children, Frankey and Perine, acrobatic and ground and lofty tumbling; Prof. Williams and his trained horse; Billy Morrow and his troupe of dogs . . . Johnny Fox, equilibrist; Dwyer Bros., balloon ascension. Sideshow under the management of Prof. W. R. Jones: W. R. Jones, magician, ventriloquist and orator; Mrs. Vida Jones, mind reading and second sight; Miss Clarrie Skerbeck, snake enchantress; Frank Skerbeck, sword walking and sword swallowing. Concert, under the direction of Johnny Fox: Johnny Fox, jig dancing on his hands; the Nelsons, John and Ella, musical turn; Fred Given, black face comedian; W. R. Jones and Nida, in afterpiece. Band: Prof. Joe Nerda, leader, with six people; Slim Davis, boss canvasman with fourteen assistants; Joe Berey, boss cook with four flunkeys. We eat on lot, sleep at hotels. New York Clipper, May 28, 1898, p. 213.
1899: Skerbeck Family Co., the old reliable one ring show. Prof. Strawl makes his flying trip to the clouds and when at a distance of 600 feet, will descend clinging to his parachute. Skerbeck band, 18 musicians. The Hocums, trick bareback rider. The Skerbecks, ten in number, a whole show by themselves, one ring, one act, so you can see it all. Manitowoc, May 25. Manitowoc Daily Herald (Manitowoc, WI), May 17, 1899, n.p.n.
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Skiff's - 1891
Skiff's Allied Mastodon Shows, Circus, Museum, Trained Animals, Japanese Festival Roman Hippodrome and Gorgeous Spectacular Pantomime Southern Tour. Call. All parties engaged will report at Cincinnati Nov. 12(?). Wanted immediately, a few more first class performers to strengthen show. Lady riders. Also trained horses, ponies, dogs and animals of all kinds. Musicians for No. 2 band and good leader. Any kind of show property cheap for cash. Address Manager Skiff, Hotel Emery, Cincinnati, O. New York Clipper, October 31, 1891, p. 578.
Chas. Andress has signed as general manager of Skiff's Allied Shows, opening Nov. 1?, for a tour of the South. New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 593.
Chas. Andress has postponed his plans for taking out the Skiff Circus from Cincinnati until next Spring. New York Clipper, November 21, 1891, p. 616.
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Slaymaker & Nichols - 1864
• Goodwin & Wilder, owners.
• 1864: online at:
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Bert Sloan's - 1933
Bert Sloan's circus, a company of 65 performers whose acts and equipment are carried by both rail and overland trucks, will fill a week's engagement June 18-24 under the auspices of the Cortland Fire Department. Twenty numbers are included on the circus program, which includes several animal acts, acrobats, aerial artists, comedy riding act, and a bevy of clowns. Cortland Standard (Cortland, NY), June 1, 1933, p. 13.
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Sloat & Shepard's - 1857-59
• According to Stuart Thayer's Annals of the American Circus, 1793-1860 John G. Sloat and James G. Shepard purchased Joe Pentland's show in 1857, and titled it "Joe Pentland's Circus." Their second unit that year was titled "Sloat & Shepard's Great Northern Circus." 1858-59 they put out "Joe Pentland's Circus."
• 1857: online at Clipper, May 16, Clipper, September 5 (scroll down)
• 1858: online at:
• 1859: online at:
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Sluthour & Sons' - 1874
Sluthour & Son's Continental Circus is the correct name of the company referred to in our past issue as Dean & Pell's Circus. Their route lies from Troy, N.Y., to Ogdonsburg, thence into Canada. New York Clipper, May 23, 1874, p. 63.
The Continental Circus opens in Syracues, Saturday next. It is a circus with no 'animals' to exhibit. The Rochester Express says: The great Continental Circus . . . The great clown, Pete Conklin, king of jesters, is with this circus. He is assisted by three other clowns. The riders are all superior, the Rogers family, the Kincade family and Collins, the English juggler, can't be beat. Daily Standard (Syracuse, NY), June 25, 1874, n.p.n.
Sluthour & Sons' Great Continental Circus. Pete Conklin, clown, formerly manager of the great Commonwealth Circus, is with them. Will exhibit in Syracuse, Saturday, June __th. The best ring show, the best people. Our challenge. $1,000 that we have the best pad rider, $1,000 that we have the best female rider, $1,000 that we have the best trick horse, $1,000 that we have the best female ascensionist . . . Prof. Luguini's cornet band, will amke a tour of the principal streets in a band wagon, on arrival of company. Grand free exhibition, Signorita Ida Vincenta, queen of the wire, walking on an almost invisible wire from the ground to the top of the tent. [Advertisement] Daily Courier (Syracuse, NY), June 27, 1874, n.p.n.
The Continental Circus, of which A. H. Sluthour & Sons are proprietors, will appear in this city shortly. . . . Evening Journal (Albany, NY), July 10, 1874, n.p.n.
Sluthour & Sons' Great Continental Circus. Pete Conklin, the clown (formerly manager of the Great Commonwealth Circus, organized in 1871) is with them. Will exhibit in Albany, July 17 and 18. We give no street show of baggage wagons, used horses in outside clap-trap attraction, but a legitimate circus performance. [Advertisement] Albany Evening Times (Albany, NY), July 17, 1874, p. 1.
The circus, for once, was not largely attended last evening. A lady connected with the company had "an attachment for the trick stallion," and officer Bostwick took possession of the animal. He was replevined by the owner, who also had "an attachment for him" and the "show went on." Evening Register (Hudson, NY), July 24, 1874, n.p.n.
Sluthour & Son's Great Continental Circus pitched their tent at Albany, N.Y., July 17, for two days. Our correspondent says: ". . . The canvas was well filled at each exhibition. The show is not a strong one by any means, although there are a few good people connected with it, by whose exertions a fair arenic display is made. The exceptions referred to comprise Pete Conklin, jester; W. T. Aymar, general performer; Abelardo Lowande, equestrian; Harry Hurdic, trapezist; and a few others." New York Clipper, July 25, 1874, p. 134.
All the property of Sluthour & Son's Circus was seized at Fishkill Landing, for indebtedness. The seizure was made by Deputy Sheriff Michael Vincent. It was a replevin proceeding instituted by Andrew A. Tubbs, of Schuylerville, Saratoga County, who held a bill of sale of the concern, securing him for money loaned Sluthour & Son. Finding that they were leaving horses here and there for debts contracted he proceeded to take possession of the remaining property. The elder Sluthour was absent in New York at the time and Pete Conklin, the clown, claimed to own the establishment and was inclined to be obstreperous when the Sheriff make known his business. At one time resistence was threatened, but that course was abandonded. As the horses came from the ring the Sheriff took them in charge and put them in proper hands for safe keeping. The whole property was seized and is still held by authority of the Sheriff. Evening Register (Hudson, NY), July 28, 1874, n.p.n.
Sluthour's Circus exhibited in Troy, N.Y., July 22, to slim audiences. The principal performers consist of George Kingcade and sons, Mr and Mrs. Lowande, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. F. Aymer, Harry Hurdic, Billy Collins and Pete Conklin. The Rogers Brothers quit the concern there. The performing horses are few and far between. Pete Conklin, the clown, is the great attraction. New York Clipper, August 1, 1874, p. 143.
Sluthour & Co., proprietors of a circus, are charged with having acted as rouges, leaving horses behind at various places and afterwards taking them up and disposing of them for their own benefit, when Mr. A. A. Tubbs, of Schuylerville, Saratoga county, had claims covering the entire property. He proposes to sell the whole property, and is negotiating with a party in New York to that end. The circus has disbanded. Daily Courier (Syracuse, NY), August 20, 1874, n.p.n.
Sluthor & Co.'s circus has come to grief near Syracuse. The sheriff has his claws upon the concern. Titusville Herald (PA), August 22, 1874, n.p.n.
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Avery Smith & Co.'s - 1861
• 1861: online at Clipper, January 12 (scroll down)
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E. G. Smith's - 1867
[Advertisement] E. G. Smith's Mammoth Combination Show. Will enter on Monday, June 3d headed by the Great American Band in their gorgeous and splendid band chariots drawn by a number of elegant and richly caparisoned horses and proceed through the principal streets discoursing the most beautiful popular airs of the day and proceed to the circus ground on Summer Street. Exhibition afternoon and evening, Monday, June 3.
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E. G. Smith's - 1910, 1912-13
1910: E. G. Smith’s Colossal Shows and Trained Animal Exposition, after two seasons off the road, will again be on the road season 1911, opening the latter part of April. Mr. Smith has just returned to his home at Atwater, O., with two car loads of stock and circus equipment, which he purchased from a prominent Eastern circus. New tents will be purchased and a number of new parade wagons and cages will be built at winter quarters at Atwater. "Circus Gossip," Billboard, November 19, 1910, p. 21.
1912: E. G. Smith's Colossal Shows - E. G. Smith, prop. and mgr.; Clayton Grobe, general agent; Harry Elias, local contractor; George H. Taylor, special agent; Ed. Thires(?), press agent back with show; G. H. Irving, mgr. side show; J. J. Ray Dee, equestrian director; C. E. Alispaugh, boss hostler; Carl Mense, supt. commissary dept.; Ed. Moss, supt. lights; Slim Hicks, supt. properties; George Pursell, supt. ring stock, Bernard Mense, supt. animals. Show opens at Atwater, O., April 27. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
1913: E. G. Smith's Colossal Show - E. G. Smith, proprietor and manager; Ed. Thires, assistant manager; Elmer C. Myers, general agent; Geo. H. Irving, sideshow manager; H. A. Ramsey, superintendent reserved seat tickets. Show opens At Atwater, O., April 26. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
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H. M. Smith's Circus - 1856-58
• Stuart Thayer's Annals of the American Circus, 1793-1860 lists Horace M. Smith, owner, 1856-57.
1856:
During the next few years many circuses appeared. Some
which presented several exhibitions were Spaulding and
Rogers', H. M. Smith's and Madigan's. The banner year seem to have been 1856, when each of these three performed twice and several minor shows presented their offerings. When the H. M. Smith Circus appeared late in May, 1856,
the editor of the Times and Delta wondered "where so many
people came from." He was pleased to see such a large number of ladies in attendance and reported that the performance was better than that of the general run of traveling shows. Cairo Times and Delta, May 38, 1856.
Smith's "Great American Circus equipped and designed for the leading exhibit of 1856" was announced to perform again on Saturday, August 16. There was to be a "Brass and String Band" and many new acts, featuring H. M. Smith in his "celebrated Act, Falstaff, Shylock, and Richard III" as well as A. Gardiner, the "Great American Clown," who concluded his portion of the show with "A Countryman's Visit to the Circus." Cairo Times and Delta, May 38, 1856.
H. M. Smith's "big top" visited Cairo again on June 24, 1857.
• Note: All information above is from Entertainment and Amusement in Cairo, 1848 - 1858, by Harold E. Briggs, published in the Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society, Autumn, 1954, pp. 231-251.
[Advertisement] H. M. Smith's Great American Circus will exhibit at La Crosse, Saturday, June 28th, two performances, afternoon and evening, at 2 and 7 o'clock. Manager and proprietor, H. M. Smith. Master of the circle, R. S. Kennedy. Leader of orchestra, Louis Schellen. Clown and jester, Henry A. Gardner. This company, comprising the entire strength of the two companies lately performing at New Orleans, "with such undoubted success," are, without exception, the largest, the most talented, and give the greates variety of performances of any company that has yet appeared in the West.
On Thursday last, H. M. Smith's Circus exhibited at Stillwater, before a very large concourse of people. The proprietor waited on those of our citizens who wished to attend, with their neat little steamer, the Carrier, to Stillwater and back again, free of charge; and was very sorry that his agent had inadvertantly missed this place, but our neighbors at Prescott were the cause. They represented us to be a small people and few in number. We thank you, Prescott friends, for your timely favor. It has saved to our town a great many dollars, and our citizens are just as happy as if they had seen the 'elephant." Prescott, too, reaped their presence. Her citizens are glad, of course.
• 1856. The first circus in the county was at Brownsville, on the 17th of June. H. M. Smith was the proprietor. Edward Duffield Neill, History of Houston County, p. 296.
1857:
City of La Crosse, License to Smith's Circus, $6.00. La Crosse Independent Republican (WI), April 8, 1857, n.p.n.
Great American Circus! H. M. Smith, Equestrian Director. Wm. Durridge, Business Manager. This large and extensive Company will perform here on June l0th, 11th and 12th. Performances Afternoon and Evening. The grand entree will consist of twelve handsomely caparisoned spotted steeds, led by four beautiful young ladies, in new and graceful evolutions. In this unequalled troupe are Frank Robinson, acknowledged to be the greatest, funniest and most laughter-provoking Clown in America. M'lle Victoria, The most graceful female equestrienne of the present age, whose inimitable daring acts of horsemanship and the delight of all beholders. George Sweet, the world-renowned equestrian, whose daring and wonderful performances on the tight rope have never been equalled. Horace M. Smith, the greatest bare-back rider in the world. The audience will be entertained with the Magic Globes, by G. W Archer; the duplicate ladders by the acrobatic brothers; and a variety of dances, by tbe most accomplished and beautiful Boyadese(?) of the circle, M'lle Victoria. Pantomimes, equal if not superior, to the world-renowned Ravel Family. [Advertisement] Memphis Daily Appeal (Memphis, TN), June 10, 1857, n.p.n.
1858:
[Advertisement] Great Circus Is Coming! On Wednesday, June 30th, 1858. This is assuredly the star company of the season, comprising as it does the most elegant and astonishing equestrians, most expert tumblers, the most scientific equilibruinists, most herculean gymnasts, most terpsecorean dancers, most enchanting singers and the most droll clown in America. The manager, H. M. Smith, would most respectfully announce to his old friends and patrons, that neither pains nor expense have been regarded in the fittingout his exhibition, so as to fully maintain that celebrity already gained by his company. The American rope dancer, G. Sweet, is engaged for a limited number of days, when he will leave this country for Europe. For particulars see bills. Will perform in Rock Island on Thursday. Davenport Daily Gazette (IA), June 28, 1858, p. 1.
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Smith & Baird's - 1872 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1872
[Advertisement] Smith & Baird's Excelsior Circus. For one day only at Monticello, Wednesday, June 19th, '72. No divided concern half circus and half menagerie, on large show of three of the best circuses in the country.
Mad. Carron, lady two horse rider on her Arabian steed, will place her child erect upon her head. Mr. Fred Castel, horseman and summersault rider. M'lle Marine, lady rider. Mons. Gillam, man monkey or gorilla. Sig. F. P. Charvat, crystal pyramid. Master Frank Rivers, boy wonder, rings, contortionist. Carron Family consisting of Prof. Carron, Mad. Carron, Master E. Carron, Louis Carron. 3 great clowns, or Shakespearian jesters, Johnny Rivers, Ned Turner, Harry Bibbons. The fire king, Orlando. Dancing dog, Nelly.
Gillam Brothers, trapeze on their flying trapeze, thirty-five feet above ground. Willis Wolf, leaper, acrobat and gymnast. Leslie Brothers, horizontal bar. Frank Ashton, bonelss boy, contortionist and tumbler. William Corson, leaper, tumbler, general performer. Either he or Wolf will leap more horses than are leaped over in any other circus. Harry Blood, humorist. Master Eddie Fox, skeleton acrobat. Leo Le Vere, leaper, tumbler and contortionist. Wm. Antonio, balancer and acrobat. Marble Brothers, leapers and gymnasts. Charles Beeny, voltiguer and acrobat.
Three great clowns. Five ladies ride in this show. Grand parade at 10 o'clock a.m., led by Prof. Thompson's Silver Cornet Band. Admission 50 cts. Children under 10, 25 cts. Doors open at 1 and 7. Performance at 2 and 7 1/2 o'clock p.m. Geo. K. Steele, general agent. Monticello Express (IA), June 13, 1872, n.p.n.
• In 1872 Smith & Baird's Excelsior Circus had winter quarters in Galesburg, Illinois. It started its tour from Galesburg on May 16, with 30 wagons, 125 men, 150 horses and a company of performers. More information on the show is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1988, Vol. 32, No. 5, p. 28.
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Smith & Door's Robinson's Show - 1892
Roster of Robinson's Combined Shows and Trained Animal Exhibition. Smith & Dorr, proprietors; Mrs. Josie Dorr and troupe of trained dogs, Wm. Dorr's troupe of trained ponies, Bowen Bros., gymansts; Smith Children, aerialists; Harry Silvester, juggler; Kid Wilson, singing clown . . . C. H. Edelstine, boss canvasman, with ten assistants; Jack Hemingway, chandeliers; and John Wentworth, boss hostler. Prof. Lew Cole has the sideshow. The show travels by rail, making one day stands. . . . balloon ascensions daily. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 130.
Robinson's Combined Shows and Trained Animal Exhibition, traveling through Southern Missouri, report good business. The roster: Smith & Door, proprietors; William Dorr, equestrain director; Josie Dorr . . . Lillie La Rue, William Dorr, Sam Wright, Will Howard, Smith Bros., Harry Robinson, Maud Milford, Belle Sinclair, Floyd Rowe, Jim Kimball, Prof. Will Marshall, with a band of ten pieces. The sideshow is run by Lew Cole, door solicitor; Prof. Higgs, Punch and Judy and sleight of hand; the big Missouri snake, sacred owl face monk, performing ape, Brazilian gravedigger, etc. The ghost perambulates every week. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
Robinson's Combined Shows are now in Illinois. We put in the Fourth at Crystal City, Mo., to the banner business of the season. Sam Wright, our balloonist, made a splendid trip to the clouds. He was carried some six miles before reaching native soil. The show laid over one day at St. Louis. The boys had their Fourth there. Some invested in new clothes. Mrs. Dorr, our treasurer, was presented with a gold neck chain by the performers. We play Illinois one month, then go back to Missouri. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
Wanted, for the Robinson Trained Animal Show, performers in all branchs except riders, must do two or more acts. Also concert people, man and wife preferred. Address Bushnell(?), Ill. manager Robinson's Show. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 336.
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Smith & Fralando's - 1891
Ed. Fralando's Great British Show will have a new 110ft. round top, with a 50ft. middle piece, next season. The show is being ___ up in fine shape. A looking lass band chariot and five handsome cages are being built. The show will tour Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin. New York Clipper, February 14, 1891, p. 779.
Cliff Ingraham's Golden Cornet Band has signed with Fralando's Great British Shows of the tenting season of 1891. Several new features have been recently added. Smith & Fralando's Great Winter Carnival Spectacular "Humpty Dumpty" Co. have closed the season, and Mr. Fralando is busy getting his circus in shape for the coming season . . . New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 811.
Wanted for Fralando Bros.' Great British Shows. Performers in all branches of circus biz. Must do more than one turn. Also freaks for sideshow. We will pay spot cash for good second hand 80ft. round top, side show paintings, lights, &c. Privileges for sale. Address Ed Fralando, Manager, Mayville, North Dakota. New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 814.
Smith & Fralando's British Circus will open at LaCrosse, Wis. . . . The show will be as bright as a new dollar. The roster: Smith & Franlando, sole owners and managers . . . Emry H. Smith, assistant manager; Lew Nelson, advance agent, with eight assistants; Fisher, Will Howard, W. C. Duffy, Nickel Sisters, Harry Wesley, Eddie Crosby . . . Oregon Bros. . . . Master Charley . . . the Franch Family . . . Archie White . . . Lee and Robinson . . . and Cliff Ingraham's band of ten pieces. The show will travel by wagon, touring Wisconsin, Minnesota and Dakota. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 92.
Smith & Fralando's Great British Circus has done a big business ever since the opening. Jerry Keating and ___ recently joined. Ajax, the contortionist, is knocking them out with his acts. While taking a long drive from Spring Grove, Minn., to Houston, the band wagon was followed by a black bear, which was shot by one of the boys. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 198.
On the road, circuses: Smith & Fralando's, Faribault, Minn. May 28, Kilkenny 29, Montgomery 30, New Prague June 1, Caraver 2. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
Wanted, for Smith & Fralando's Great British Circus, two good serio comics and song and dance ladies for concert. Montgomery, Minn. June 1, New Prague, Minn. June 3(?). Sideshow privilege for sale. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 210.
Notes from Smith & Fralando’s Great British Circus. We showed at Morristown, Minn., May 30, and after the afternoon performance we visited the grave of Daniel Scott, the old time showman, and decorated it with flowers. Ajax Jr. laid a beautiful wreath of lilies at the head of the grave. Ingraham’s Golden Band played a dirge to the departed showman, and Jerry Keeting made a few appropriate remarks, after which the boys visited the old deserted ring barn and animal quarters. All wrote or cut their names on the walls. The show travels by wagon, using a 110 ft. round top and two 50 ft. middle pieces. . . . The complete roster: Smith & Fralando, proprietors and managers; Ben De Pere, equestrian director; Emery Smith, treasurer; O. C. Olson, advance agent; Sidonia, Ajax Jr., Pollworth Bros., Le Roys, Howard and Yount, Mons. Testo, Chas. Ledegar, Sig. Rodella, Keeting and Harrigan, Kitty De Pere, Estes, Ellsworth Sisters, Mlle. Berrata, Mme. Fondo, Prof. Egg, F. B. Wilson, Geo. Rose, V. W. Ingraham, J. O. Wilson, E. S. Law, C. J. Carroll, M. D. Farnell, C. F. Ingraham, Hank Nelson, Ed. Gilbert, Chas. Lane, Lew Drake, Ed. Fatum, Lem Haliaird, C. Jackson. New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 231.
The Smith & Fralando Great British Circus showed at Morton, Minn., June 15(?). The afternoon audience was composed largely of Indians from a nearby reservation. A tribe under Chief Good Thunder dined with the boys in the mess tent. After the show the Indians gathered around the lot, selling charms, tomahawks and other curios in the Wild West line. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
On the road, circuses: Smith & Fralando's, Paynesville, Minn. July 1, New London 2, Delano 3, Watertown 4. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 281.
On the road, circuses: Smith & Fralando's, Fargo, N.D. Aug 7 . . . New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 347.
On the road, circuses: Smith & Fralando's, Fargo, N.D. Aug 7 . . . Mayville 10 . . . New York Clipper, August 8, 1891, p. 365.
Smith & Fralando's Great British Circus is reported to be doing a big business in the Dakotas. It is showing in towns never before visited by a circus. William Curtice (Shakesperian clown), joined the show at Fargo, Dak. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.
On the road, circuses: Smith & Fralando's, Northwood, N.D. Aug 12, Larimore 13, Grafton 15, Winnipeg Man. 16. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 386.
Notes from Smith & Fralando's British Circus. We closed our twelfth week at Fargo, N.D., Aug. 1, and have had a very successful trip thus far. Ed. Fralando was recently married to Nellie Woods, a professional, at Little Falls, Minn. . . . Curtis, song and dance man; W. Flow, clarionetist . . . Johnston, trap drummer. Ajax Jr., contortionist, has closed on account of ill health. New York Clipper, August 22, 1891, p. 398.
An unsigned communication has reached us stating that Smith & Fralando's Circus, under the management of C. J. Smith, collapsed at La Crosse, Wis., after an unprofitable two weeks' business. The letter also states that the manager left the town, leaving twenty or thirty men destitute, some of them five hundred miles from their home. New York Clipper, October 24, 1891, p. 552.
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Smith & Lincoln Bros.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1923.
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Smith & Maxwell's Great Western - 1876
The Great Western Circus. Proprietors, G. H. Smith and L. C. Maxwell; general contracting agent, C. T. Hall, assisted by J. H. Blackford and G. A. Hall; director of circus, E. L. Wiseman; treasurer, L. C. Maxwell; master of canvas, N. W. Whiteton; second master, W. A. Dunlap; master of stable, Homer Thomas; master of grooms, H. A. Johnson, assisted by M. King; director of street parades, G. H. Smith; layer-out, Morg. Hamilton; leader of brass and reed band, William Austin; candy privilege, Frank Keschum and Tom Burk. Clown, Tommy De Veaux. Circus company, E. L Wiseman, W. C. Fisher, ___ Miltimore, Dwight Jenilson(?), Billy Taylor, George Fisher, Lew Benson, F. H. McBride, Master Willie, and the Anderson Family. Two tents used. Supt. of sideshow, Charley Foster and James Hall; concert, T. De Veaux. Winter quarters, Malboro, O., from which place the show will start about May 1. New York Clipper, April 29, 1876, p. 39.
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Smith Bros. - 1908, 1909
1908: Things are now being put into shape at the winterquarters of the Smith Brothers' Shows for the opening, which occurs on May 1 at Oakland City, Indiana. The entire equipment has been repaired and redocorated and the management promises one of the best wagon shows on the road this season. Billboard, May 2, 1908, p. 42.
1909: Smith Brothers, of Oakland City, Indiana, have improved their wagon show and will soon start their season's tour. New York Dramatic Mirror, May 1, 1909, p. 14.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, Chris M. Smith, proprietor, 1923.
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Snelbaker's - 1915
Colonel Snelbaker's Overland Shows, after playing Tennessee and Alabama, are now in Indiana. The Southern trip, according to reports, was good in spots, especially Scottsboro, Ala., and Ewen, Tenn. Billboard, September 25, 1915, p. 57.
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Capt. H. Snider's - 1918
Capt. H. Snider has his dog and pony circus and wild animal show in quarters at Altamahaw, N.C. He has one of the finest untamable lion acts seen anywhere. For ten years the Captain was with Al F. Wheeler. Winter quarters: Capt. H. Snider's Dog & Pony Circus & Wild Animal Show, Capt. H. Snider, proprietor, Altamahaw, N.C. Billboard, January 12, 1918, pp. 29, 55.
Capt. H. Snider has completed arrangements to place his dog and pony circus and untamable lion act with the G. Burkhart's amusements with the Northwestern Shows (carnival). Billboard, March 16, 1918, p. 29.
Capt. H. Snider will not take his show out this year on account of not being able to secure transportation facilities for some of his animals. Billboard, June 8, 1918, p. 27.
Captain H. Snider writes that he will not take out his entire show this season, though he intends to made a few fair dates with part of his outfit. The Captain is an animal trainer, possibly one of the oldest in this country. The Wheeler Bros.' Show was his home for several years. Billboard, July 13, 1918, p. 25.
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Snyder & Zimmerman's - 1892
Snyder & Zimmerman's Fair Ground Show, No. 1, close this week at Harrisburg, Va., and their No. 2 show is at the Macon, Ga. Fair, and will tour the Southern fairs under the supervision of Prof. Hugo. Mr. Snyder left at once for New York to make arrangements for their Minstrel Carnival, and, judging from the many novelties they have in store, it will be a complete revolution of the minstrel business. The parade is something entirely new, and will be about six blocks long. Max Zimmerman will remain at Frederick, Md., and look after the interest of the show at that end of the line. The show opens Nov. 28(?), and will run until after the World's Fair, traveling in their own special cars, and playing only the larger towns.
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Snyder Bros. - 1902
Notes from Snyder Bros. Big Specialty Show. We have arrived in Texas. Will open the big show known as Snyder Bros.' New Model Show about March 10, near Dennison, Texas. New York Clipper, February 22, 1902, p. 1135.
• More information on the Snyder Bros. show, 1908-1909, is online in Billboard, 1908-09 - use find.
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Snyder Bros. - 1931-32, 1934 Snyder Bros. listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1931-32
1931: (Red Creek Herald) Last Saturday a dream of a life-time was realized by Frank Snyder, better known as "Zeke," who launched a circus at the local airport. His first start was purchasing an outfit of a defunct road show at Syracuse last fall. The big show opened with a street parade at noon. The side show, including his animals was packed, and when the sale of tickets for the main show took place it was estimated that 700 crowded into the first performance. . . . Fair Haven Register (Fair Haven, NY), May 7, 1931, p. 1.
1932: Red Creek, May 3. Synder Brothers circus and wild west show will open at Red Creek airport. The band will ride in a street parade in a band truck painted in patriotic colors, bearing a large likeness of George Washington on one side and a reproduction of the American flage on the others. This is Synder Brothers' contribution to the nation-wide centennial of Washington's birth. Several new acts have been secured, including the Tiernay troupe, slack wire; Gus Generva, balancing act; Lee Kenerva, cloud swing and iron jaw. Tex Chennette, cowboy and bronco buster, is chief of the wild west division of the show. He has been training two troupes of educated ponies, together with dog, monkey and pony acts. A new elephant has been purchased from Benson Wild Animal farms in Nashua, New Hampshire. Some of the animals have been farmed out at zoos during the winter, but some lions, wildcats, monkeys and bears have been in Synder's barns at his home since September. Henry F. Fredericks, for many years with Walter L. Main's circus and other outfits, has been secured to act as manager. Mrs. Snyder, the owner's wife, is secretary and treasurer. Oswego Palladium-Times (Oswego, NY), May 3, 1932, p. 9.
1934: Red Creek. Snyder Bros. Circus has put up for the winter at Cambridge, N.Y., and Mr. and Mrs. Snyder returned home last week. Cato Citizen (Cato, NY), November 8, 1934, n.p.n.
• An article on the 1931-32 Snyder Bros. show, owner Frank Snyder, and his 1934 Cole & Rogers show is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1992, Vol. 36, No. 1, pp. 20-26.
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Snyder Bros. & Dowker's Wild West - 1904-05
1904:
Mr. Milton Dowker, of the Synder Brothers and Dowker Circus and Wild West Show, who has been spending the winter at his horse ranch at Calgary, Can., will return to winter quarters of the show at Roodhouse, Ill., about April 1. Billboard, January 2, 1904, p. 11.
Notes from tbe Snyder Bros. Big Vaudeville Shows. After a five year tour without closing in the Sunny South, the show has at last been snugly stowed away in winter quarters at Brighton, Ill. The show will open about April 1 at Brighton, Ill., a much larger show, under the name of Snyder Bros. and Dowker's Wild West Circus and Museum. Tbe show will still travel by wagon, carrying 60 bead of stock and 40 people. The management is busy signing people for the season of 1904. Billboard, January 9, 1904, p. 9.
1905: Notes from the Snyder Bros. and Dowker's Wild West Shows. The show is in its fifth week, and the feature is the band under the leadership of Theodore Stout, consisting of sixteen pieces. Roster of the band: Bert Barrow, A. F. Stanley, Joe Reuter, M. W. Brock, Geo. Fryer, Earl Trousdale, "Butts" Wm. Morgan, Jim Charley, Geo. Kempshall, Ed Maupin(?), Herold ___, Wm. Brown, Charlie Snyder, Verno Stewart, John P. Stowe and Theodore Stout, leader. New York Clipper, June 10, 1905, p. 404.
• More information on the Snyder Bros. & Dowker's show is online in Billboard, 1904-06 - use find.
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Snyder Wild West - 1919
Charlotte, Mich., May 10. Emmett and Leo Snyder, of Charlotte, have received the animals for their show, consisting of badgers, monkeys and other animals, and are planning on starting out soon with their show, known as the Snyder Wild West. They exhibited part of their sideshow at the Eaton County Fair here last year and remained in Charlotte for the winter. Billboard, May 17, 1919, p. 84.
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Sole's - 1919
Sole's Circus, an Australian attraction, is to play Tasmania shortly. It has been in North Australia during the winter months. Billboard, December 27, 1919, p. 57.
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Soll's Bros. - 1922
Many anxious — and curious — eyes will be cast in the direction of Sam Solomon the coming season. With his Sol's Bros.' Circus and Wild West Samuel is launching an innovation (in announcing a season's engagements at two stands a week). He seems to be devoting a great deal of attention to an all-important feature in connection with the project, the collection of sufficient construction and train help to keep 'er moving. The winter quarters of the show at Metropolis, Ill., is said to be a beehive of activity. Billboard, February 18, 1922, pp. 87-88.
Samuel Soloman, operating head of the newly formed Soll's Bros.' Circus and Wild West (formerly Sol's United Shows), to be launched at Metropolis, Ill., March 25, to play two stands a week the coming season. . . . It is his aim to have as many veterans of the circus and carnival lots as possible make up his personnel. Among those recently contracted were the veteran showman, Col. E. D. Snyder (Tiger Bill), the past four season with the Zeidman & Pollie Shows, who will again present Tony, the Alligator Boy, in a platform show, and Col. Snyder's son, Leo (Young Tiger Bill), well known in Wild West and carnival circles, will have the Wild Wet concert with the big circus, which will be presented under an 80ft. round top, with three 30 ft. middles. Another veteran is L. H. Ranft, who will be equestrian director of the circus. The show, which is also to carry other shows, besides the circus, rides and concessions, etc., is to be heavily billed. Billboard, February 25, 1922, p. 110.
Metropolis, Ill., March 8. The winter quarters
of Soll's Bros.' Circus and Wild West at Metropolis last week began preparations for the spring opening. It has been the policy of Sam Solomon, owner and manager, to "work while he works and play when he p'ays." . . . At the ring barns stock is being worked out and new stunts are being drilled into the many horses and ponies. In the animal house activity also prevails, so that all may know
their work when tbe whistle blows on March 25. The physical property of Soll's Bros.' Circus is new from stake bands to flagstaffs. The big tops, as well as all other canvas goods, was made by the Beverly Company, of Louisville, during the past winter. New wagons from the Wm. Frech Company, of Maple Shade, N. J.; band organs and calliopes from North Tonawanda, N. Y.; additional railroad equipment from tbe Southern Iron and Equipment
Company, of Atlanta, and the Venice Transportation
Company, of St. Louis, will all go to make up a circus outfit surpassed by none of its size. The train will be lighted thruout by three of the latest type Delco plants, insuring comfort, convenience and safety. A word concerning the private car. During the winter Mrs. Solomon determined to have the "finest home on wheels." No comfort nor convenience is missing. From the white
enameled kitchen to tbe mahogany drawing room, sleeping quarters and tile bath this is truly a car de luxe. The opening of the tour will take place here, and it is planned to make two stands a week. A complete roster of the show's staff will be found elsewhere in this issue. — B. D. Russell (Secretary).
St. Louis, May 2. Sam Solomon, of Sol's Bros.' Circus and Wild West, entertained the St. Louis Billboard staff, W. S. Donaldson, president of COMA, and Harry Smith, of the Fulton Bag Company, in his private car while at Belleville, Ill. While the weather has been unusually severe, Mr. Solomon is satisfied that his show will be a success this year and that his idea of combining circus and carnival is fundamentally sound. Billboard, May 13, 1922, p. 76.
Want for Solls' Bros. Circus, performers who do two or more acts. Address Sam Solomon, 716 East 51st Street, Chicago, Ill. [Advertisement] Note: Soloman also had Sol's United Shows, a carnival. Billboard, December 16, 1922, p. 160.
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South American Kid's Wild West - 1919
South American Kid's Wild West made the long jump from San Augustine, Tex., to Atlanta, Ga., where the show played to losing business for three weeks on account of rain and cold weather. From Atlanta to Girard, Ala., to fair business. From there to Columbus, Ga., to good business. A this point Doc Barfield came on and signed contracts with me to feature the show over on the Met. Carnival Company. I have since purchased the Oklahoma Bill's Wild West Show from Major C. F. Rhodes. This makes my outfit three complete Wild West shows combined into one. . . . Milt Hinkle (South American Kid). Milt Hinkle was with Dickey's Circle D Wild West Show ca 1912. Billboard, April 19, 1919, p. 35.
South American Kid Notes. Jack and Daisy Grizzle are still doing their shooting act. Jack has also been riding bronks for the past several weeks. Pauline Lorenz left the show at Clifton Forge to join the California Frank Show. Billboard, July 19, 1919, p. 44.
South American Kid's Wild West, according to "Slim" Foster, closed a successful season at Savannah, Ga., several weeks ago. The roster included L. D. Foster (Slim), openings, roping and bronks; Mrs. Foster, tickets; Frank Gusky, roping and bronks; John Gibbons, bronks; Raymond Sergeant, bronks and mule riding. Billboard, December 27, 1919, p. 58.
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Southern Bell - 1902 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1902
Roster of the Southern Bell Railroad Shows: T. J. Oatman, manager; W. W. Stoltz, advance agent; R. E. Burneved, boss bill poster; Arthur Midget, billposter. Billboard, August 23, 1902, p. 4.
• 1903: Cooper & Company's Southern Bell Railroad shows is tied up in New Orleans and in the hands of the sheriff. An attachment was filed Saturday by Charles H. Schmick and his wife Annie E. Ross, of Buffalo. They sue to recover overdue salaries. Both are performers. T. J. Oatman is the manager and made defendant. Buffalo Courier (Buffalo, NY), January 5, 1903, p. 6.
• Also see Cooper & Co.
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G. R. Spalding's - 1844-45, 1848, 1866
1844:
[Advertisement] North American Circus. G. R. Spalding, proprietor. Will be exhibited at Racine, Wednesday, July 10, for one day only. Admission - Boxes 50 cts. Pit 25 cts. The manager of the "North American Circus," while he has taken measures to secure the attendance of every accompaniment, in all the departments of a well regulated company, that can contribute to the entertainment of those who may assemble to witness the exhibition here announced, has not disregarded the taste of the public, which imperiously demands the exclusion of everything immoral or objectionable and, with an eye to the rock on which so many have split, has used the most effective means to prevent anything that can be construed into indelicacy by the most prudient imagination, or that might tinge the most modest cheek, or that could be obnoxious to the most heterogeneous crowd.
1845:
[Advertisement] North American Circus. Comprising 120 men and horses. G. R. Spalding, manager & proprietor. This extensive equestrian corps, the largest in the United States, will have the honor of performing in Washington, on Monday the 18th of August. Among the performers will be found Mr. T. McCollum, the best two horse rider in the world, Mr. W. B. Carroll, the best single horse (bare back) rider in the United States; Mr. H. A. Gardner, the only man in the world who turns a double somersett from the ground, and a band of Congo Minstrels (six in number), superior to any band in this or any other country, led by John Smith, the original John Smith, the prince of ethopian delineators. It is useless to add that in his profession John stands without a rival.
1848:
The follow account of the effects and consequences of a storm which broke upon Booneville, Mo., while Spaulding's Circus was exhibiting there on the evening of the 3d utl., was communicated by a correspondent to the St. Louis Republican: The performance went on well, and to the satisfaction of all - when in the midst of the pony scene, a storm arose accompanied with much lightning, loud thunder and rain - and a sudden gust of wind striking the immense pavilion, it came down with a crash upon the heads of the audience, quick as lightning.
[Advertisement] Spalding's North American Circus. Agent, H. M. Whitbeck. This monster establishment, the largest and grandest in the world. 200 persons and horses! The most brilliant musical festival and concert. Equestrian, gymnastic and dramatic entertainments, of the highest order. The trappings and housings of incomparable elegance. The costumes and paraphernalia of classic designs. 25 superb, spirited, well trained ring horses. 35 carriages of inconceivable sumptousness. 40 sets of harness of transcendent splendour. The leviathan double water proof pavilion, seating 4000 persons with unparalleled comfort. Brilliantly illuminated by 350 powerful reflectors.
1866: New York, Oct. 9. The following dispatch has been received by the treasurer of the New York Mail Steamship Company: The Evening Star went down on the morning of the 3d inst., in a hurricane. . . . It is hoped that others than those mentioned are saved, as the Evening Star had six large sized metallic life boats. Dr. Spaulding's circus company of 30 persons took passage on the Evening Star. They had, it is said, all their paraphernalia, but no horses. Burlington Daily Hawk-Eye (IA), October 10, 1866, p. 1.
1867:
An American circus company, under the management of Spalding, Rogers & Co., and embracing several of the leading stars of the profession, sailed from New York on Saturday on the steamship Guiding Star, with the intention of performing in Paris during the exposition. The building in which the company will perform was built in Albany and shipped direct to Paris a few days ago. Davenport Daily Gazette (IA), April 4, 1867, n.p.n.
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Spalding & Rogers - 1851, 1853-59, 1860-65 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1849-1865
• Gilbert R. Spalding, Charles J. Rogers, owners. In 1848 the title was "Spalding & Rogers' North American Circus." In 1851 the title was "Spalding, Rogers & Van Orden's People's Circus," with Wessel T. B. Van Orden added as a third partner. In 1852 there were two shows, "Spalding & Rogers' Floating Palace," and "Spalding, Rogers & Van Orden's American and European Amphitheatre." In 1853 they again had the Floating Palace. In 1854-55 they had "Spalding & Rogers Two Shows United." In 1856 they had two units, "Spalding & Rogers' New Railroad Circus" and "Spalding & Rogers Two Shows United." There were two units in 1857, "Spalding & Rogers' Three Consolidated Circuses on Floating Palace" and "Spalding & Rogers' Three Circuses Combined." In 1858 the title was "Spalding & Rogers' New Orleans Circus." 1859, two units, "Spalding & Rogers' European Circus" and "Spalding & Rogers' New Orleans Circus." One unit in 1860, "Spalding & Rogers' New Orleans Circus." More information on the shows is in Stuart Thayer's Annals of the American Circus, 1793-1860.
1851:
[Advertisement] Spalding & Rogers' North American Circus, will exhibit at Newport, on Thursday, June 5th, 1851. Doors open at 1 1-2 and 7 o'clock. Performances commence at 2 and 7 1-2 o'clock. Admission 25 cents. No half price.
[Advertisement] Spalding, Rogers & Van Orden's Peoples' Circus, equestrian, dramatic, and zoological, circus, theatre & menagerie. A grand triple combination, based upon the North American Circus, under the joint supervision of Mr. Stone, proprietor of Stone & McCollum's Circus, and including also, most of the original - so called Dan Rice's Circus with the most distinguished native and foreign male and female performers.
1853:
[Advertisement] Spalding & Rogers' North American Colossal Dramatic Equestrian Circus! Twice as large as any other circus in the Union. C. J. Rogers, manager; J. M. McCreary, treasurer. To the public. The managers, aware of the many false representations held forth on the bills of Circus companies generally, assure the public that the Forty Horses will positively be driven in the procession, by one man, in each town where the company exhibits. The above establishment will exhibit at Zanesville, on Thursday, May 26th. Doors open at 1 1/2 and 6 1/2 o'clock. Performances commence at 2 and 7 o'clock p.m. Admission 25 cents. No half price.
1854:
Spalding & Rogers' Two Circuses, combining their floating palace circus from the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, and their North American Circus, so favorably known in the North and East with the two companies comprising the elite of the profession, North and South, in the same ring, in friendly strife, in presence of the audience, with two sets of perfomers, two sets of clowns, five clowns in the ring, two sets of ring horses, a complete dramatic corps, a trick pantomine every afternoon. Putnam every night. Ned Kendall the buglers, Kendall's Brass Band, Choate's String Band, a triumphal procession at every place of exhibition of the bands in the grand floral car of statuettes, drawn by forty horses, driven by one man, and everything in and about the establishment upon the same extensive scale, will be exhibited under a colossal marquee seating 4,500 persons, a 1 and 7, afternoon and night at:
1855:
[Advertisement] Spalding & Rogers' Two Circuses!! Consolidating their celebrated Floating Palace Circus from their palatial aquatic amphitheatre, on the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, and their North American Circus, so favorable known in the North and East, into one monster concern! With the two companies, comprising respectively the most distinguised Northern and Southern performers, in friendly strife! Daily, in the same ring, in presence of the audience, with two sets of performers! Two sets of clowns! Two sets of ring horses! Pantomime every afternoon! Spectacle every night! Ned Kendall, the bugler! Kendall's Brass Band! Choate's String Band!
1856:
[Advertisement] Spaulding & Rogers' Two Circuses! Consolidating their celebrated Floating Palace Circus! From their palatial aquatic amphitheatre, on the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, and their North American Circus, so celebrated in the North and East, into one monster concern with the two companies comprising respectively the most distinguished Northern and Southern performers in the same ring in friendly strife! in presence of the audience, both companies under one tent, with two sets of performers. Two sets of ring horses! Pantomime every afternoon! Spectacle every night! Tom Cunham, the bugler. Cunham's Brass Band drawn in triumphal procession on the morning of arrival in every place of exhibition, by forty horses! Driven by one man! Cunham's Celebrated String Band! A stud of trick ponies! Dancing and war horses! And everything else upon the same elaborate scale, with the following distinguished equestrians, clowns, equestriennes, gymnasts, pantomimists, &c., &c.
• 1856: online at
Clipper, May 3, Clipper, May 31, Clipper, June 14 (scroll down)
1857:
Spalding & Rogers' Three Circuses. This extraordinary triple combination which performs here next Friday week, is causing considerable sensation all over the Western country. One circus is pretty sure to create some excitement. It is the popular amusement of America. But three circuses, all under one tent, with three sets of performers, three sets of clowns, and three sets of ring and trick horses, all in one ring and all for one price of admission, raises a furor. The forty horse band chariot, driven by one man; the trip to the coulds on a slender wire by M'lle Agnes; and all the "pomp and circumstance" of such an immense concern, attracts everywhere the whole surrounding country, "horse, foot and dragoons" to these exhibitions. But, it is said, that after all, in the great talent of the performers does the chief merit of this extraordinary consolidation consist.
[Advertisement] "Wait for the Wagon!" the forty horse wagon at that. Spalding & Roger's Three Consolidated Circuses! Will exhibit at Mt. Pleasant, Friday, June 5th. Burlington, Saturday, June 6th. Brilliant free outside spectacles!
• 1857: online at Clipper, September 5 (scroll down)
1858:
[Advertisement] Make Ready for the Equestrian Fete, Monday, July 19. Spalding & Rogers' New Orleans Circus. A new and unique establishment, consisting of absolutely 240 persons and horses and commensurate paraphernalia, by far the largest itinerant show in Europe or America, embracing the quintessence of their own and everybody else's circuses, comprising the elite of English, French, Spanish and American performers, organized expressly for their New Orleans Amphitheater in the Crescent City, the only American city where the opera and circus is permanently sustained, and the only place where second rate operatic and equestrian articles cannot be foisted upon the public.
• This wagon show played Kansas in May, 1858, advertising 109 persons, 113 horses, and a parade with a band wagon drawn by forty horses. The performance had equestrians, a man monkey, dancing horses and more. More information on the show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1987, Vol. 31, No. 3, pp. 5-7.
• 1858: online at:
• 1859: online at:
• 1859: Spalding & Rogers' European Circus, traveling on the steamer James Raymond, billed Leavenworth, Kansas for July 15 and 16, 1859. More information on this show is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1996, Vol. 40, No. 6, p. 68.
1860:
[Advertisement] Mammoth New Orleans Circus! Spalding & Rogers' United Companies from their New Orleans Amphitheater. The first season of their land company upon the Western waters. First season of their railroad circus in the West. First season of the Floating Palace C9ircus under a canvas. First season of the celebrated English court jester, Tom Watson, with his four trained geese. The proprietors have for this season, discontinued all their other traveling establishments, and concentrated all their energies and facilities upon this, their favorite company, consisting of all the State, foreign and American and the most splendid and valuable stud of ring and performing horses, ever brought before the public, selected from their various companies, all under the personal superintendence of the managing proprietor, Mr. Charles J. Rogers, whose discipline and tact have elevated this class of amusement to a standard of elegance, refinement and perfection to which all other companies would vainly hope to attain.
• 1860: online at:
• Information on Spalding & Rogers, during the Civil War, is in Slout's Clowns and Cannons.
1861:
Herr Driesbach is performing with a cage of animals in New York city; Dan Rice is in New Orleans; Spaulding & Rogers circus undertook to winter in the city of New York, but it didn't pay, so they have gone to Boston. Daily Argus and Democrat (Madison, WI), February 14, 1861, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] Spalding & Rogers' Great Railroad Circus! The proprietors, in organizing a company for the season of 1861 (having discontinued all their other traveling establishments), have selected and concentrated the best talent heretofore employed in their other circuses into one troupe, forming together the most complete circus in America. The horses are unequalled for high training, intelligence, beauty and docility, none of them are subjected to any work, except in the ring, and are always in fine condition, ready to go through their exercises with spirit, proudly eliciting the applause of the audience.
• 1861: online at:
• Information on Spalding & Rogers, during the Civil War, is in Slout's Clowns and Cannons.
• 1862: online at:
• 1863: online at:
1864:
[Advertisement] Spalding & Rogers' Great Ocean Circus! From Brazil, the Argentine Confederacy, Urguay, the Antilles, and the principal capitals and seaports of South America, where they won honors, testimonials and attentions from Emperors, Princes, Nobles, and peoples never before vouchsafed to any circus, will make a short visit to the principal cities in the interior of the United States, while refitting for another cruise to Constantinople and the Mediterreanean. The troupe of artists, too large and costly to justify any expectation of profit, except in the largest cities, will be kept together the present summer, in view that they may be organized for the European tour next fall. At 1 1/2 and 7 1/2 p.m. at Milwaukee (on Second Ward Park), Monday & Tuesday, Sept. 12 & 13.
• 1864: online at:
• 1865: online at:
• Spalding & Rogers dissolved their partnership in 1865.
• An article on the Spalding & Rogers show is in White Tops, May-June, 1949, Vol. 22, Nos. 5-6, pp. 13-15.
• An article on George R. Spalding's shows and his showboats is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1974, p. 21.
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Spalding & Ryan - 1873
Charles H. Castle will manager advance affairs for Spalding & Ryan's menagerie and circus the coming season. New York Clipper, February 1, 1873, p. 351.
Dr. Spalding has joined a co-partnership with Pat Ryan, of Albany, and one of the features of their circus will be a forty-horse team, driven by "Shad" Russell, of Albany, said to be one of the best drivers in the country. New York Clipper, March 15, 1873, p. 399.
Edgar A. Menter leads the band of the Spalding Circus. New York Clipper, March 8, 1873, p. 391.
John G. Adams, gymnast and leaper, left Hudson, N.Y., on April 19 to join Spaulding, Ryan & Henderson's Circus company. New York Clipper, April 26, 1873, p. 31.
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C. O. Spangler Great Western Railroad Show - 1901, 1905-1906
1901: Wanted, horses, wagons, band and ticket wagon, ponies, dogs, monkeys, seats and reserved seats, horse tent. Anything that can be used for circus. Spangler Bros. Great Western Show. ???, Perry Co., Pa. New York Clipper, November 30, 1901, p. 872.
1903: Notice, Dr. C. O. Spangler's Indian Medicine Co., Millerstown, Pa. Has opened a branch office in Marietta, Ohio. Parties wishing to handle my remedies and performers wishing work, write Dr. C. O. Spangler, Marietta, Ohio. New York Clipper, October 31, 1903, p. 862.
1905: Oliphant, July 30. [Pennsylvania] The Spanglers' Great Western Show gave two performances here Friday. They had some of the finest stock that ever traveled with a circus, and they gave a good parade that was almost a half mile in length. The performers were fine, especialy the trick horses. They left here for West Virginia. Daily Courier (Connellsville, PA), July 31, 1905, p. 5. Wanted, all 'round performers and concert people, canvas man and cornet and tuba player. C. O. Spangler's Great Western Show, ??? Washington Co., Pa. New York Clipper, August 19, 1905, p. 651.
1906:
C. O. Spangler Great Western Railroad Show, now at Winter quarters, is getting ready for its new show. Everything will be new, with a larger tent, more seats, a better show and a larger band than last season. Everything is newly painted. The show will open in its own town April 25. New York Clipper, March 17, 1906, p. 114.
Roster of Dr. C. O. Spangler's Big Medicine Co.: Dr. C. O. Spangler, manager; Mrs. C. O. Spangler, characters; Edna Mae Spangler, soubrette; Eugene Spangler, buck and wing dancer; Grace B. La Monte, pianist and ingenue; Jesse Aikens, contortionist and Spanish ring act; Prof. Juillette, character; Ed. Hale, black face comedian; Harry De Castor, pyramid and trapeze act. We are touring West Virginia in our own private car. Prof. Eugene, with his troupe of educated dogs, and Yan, the high diving dog is also with us. New York Clipper, December 22, 1906, p. 1165.
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Spar Bros. - 1942, 1946, 1949, 1953, 1956 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1939
1942: Greenfield, Ind. Sparr (sic) Bros. Circus has closed and is in quarters at Philadelphia, Ind. Show closed early than in former years to start its 10th indoor tour. Lunsford family left for their home, while many performers remained in quarters where they are rehearsing and breaking in new acts. Walter Jr. and Jester Harter, co-owners, are stationed at Camp Robinson (Ark.), Recreational Division, and have appeared in many shows. Jester Harter and Mildred Rawlings, Greenville, were married September 5 in the camp's chapel. In addition to the indoor circus a concert will be given this year. Billboard, September 26, 1942, p. 36.
1946: Walter and Jester Harter returned to Greenfield, Ind., from Italy recently as staff sergeants. Walter will take the advance for Selles Bros. Circus, while Jester is foreman of a local plant. Billboard, April 6, 1946, p. 52.
1949: Spar Bros. Circus wants clowns and circus acts doing two or more. Walter Harter, R. R. 4, Greenfield, Ind. [Advertisement] Billboard, October 8, 1949, p. 67.
1953: Spar Bros. Circus played Indianapolis March 13. Walter Hartner, producer-manager. Peanuts, trained horse; monkeys; Dotty Ragon, contortionist; Leo Francis, clown and drum dance; Three Elnoras, trapeze; Miss Carol, rolly polly and juggling; the Hodgsons, whips and ropes; Walter and Chester Harter, clowns; Mel Hall and Co., unicylists and Harter's Dogs. Billboard, March 28, 1953, p. 59.
1956: Spar Bros. Circus wants agent with car. Boss canvasman, lady or man banners and merchant tickets. Clows and acts. Working men who drive. Side show, pit show. Headquarters Philadelphia, Ind. Write R. R. 6, Greenfield, Ind. Billboard, June 2, 1956, p. 51.
1940 Census, Anna, Shelby Co., Ohio.
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Sparks Circus - 1912-14, 1916-18 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1903-1928
1912:
Sparks Show - Chas. Sparks, mgr.; Clifton Sparks, treas.; John Sparks Jr., auditor; T. W. Ballenger/Hallenger(?), general agent and railroad contractor; Sam Banks, local contractor; R. R. Rusby, special agent; Fletcher Smith, press agent back with show; H. H. Hall, mgr. side show; Bert Mayo, equstrian director; A. L. Bagby/Ragby(?), general supt.; John Gorman, supt. privileges; Ben E. Taylor, musical director; Lester Bartlett, supt. reserved seat tickets; H. G. Williamson, supt. canvas; Tom Jacobs, trainmaster; James Jacobs, boss hostler; A. C. Orcutt, supt. commissary dept. R. M. Doty, supt. lights; Chancy Jacobs, supt. properties; John Jacobs, supt. ring stock; Anderson Wion, supt. working crew; Guy Hilderbrant, twenty-four hour agent; Lewis Reid, supt. elephants; Edward Richardson, boss carpenter; Fritz Brunner, supt. animals; Joe De??ru?t, blacksmith; C. S. Clark, mgr. advertising car No. 1; Chas Conners, mgr. advertising car No. 2; Edgar Wren, checker-up; Basil McHenry, legal adjuster; A. J. Anderson, announcer. Show opens at Sailsbury, N. C., April 11. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
Suffern, N. Y., May 8. . . . Bert Mayo is equestrian director, . . . Ben F. Taylor, with a band of ten pieces, supplied some excellent music. . . . The Six Waltons, in a picturesque art statuary act . . . A Chinese grotesque comedy acrobatic speciality was then introduced by Sherry and Conners, who clearly demonstrated their ability in this line of work. . . . Display No. 4 contained two of the best wire acts in the business. On one end of the tent Berre and Hicks (man and woman) performed, executing the usual stunts seen in this line. . . . Victoria Biggs, costumed in a handsome blue gown . . . did some new tricks on the wire that got her plenty of applause. Display No. 5 showed Myrtle Mayo astride her beautiful black stallion, "Bird," introducing the cakewalk and gaits. . . . Display No. 6 had three of the best female aerial performers that the writer has ever witnessed. . . . Josie Bartlett was on one end, and Helen Nelson on the other, with Lizzie Cohn in the center. . . . Display No. 7 - Prof. Lewis Reed put his herd of performing elephants through a remarkable exhibition of numerous stunts . . . The clowns, headed by Joseph Sherry, one of America's foremost comedians, played the usual funny baseball game . . . His assistants are Joe McAllister, Stoddard, ??? Wallace, Connors and Claude Colbertson. . . . Display No. 9 had Berre and Hicks, in their wonderful backward headling dives from a high ladder. . . . Display No. 10 - Bert Mayo had a troupe of six stallions, which he put through many difficult tricks, but on account of the bad condition of the ring had to curtail his performance. Display No. 11 - The Flying Nelsons, in an aerial performance . . . Display No. 12 - Bert Mayo again tried to do an equestrian act, but the track interfered. The next display was entirely given over to the funny men . . . Display No. 14 - The Walter Troupe . . . acrobatic performance . . . all being attired in evening dress. Bert Mayo and Jos. Sherry creeated roars of laughter with the well known horse trade material. Display No. 16 - The Loretta Sisters, in an aerial performance while suspended by their teeth. . . . Display No. 17 - Pete Nelson and Lizzie Guice, in a revolving trapeze act. . . . Display No. 18 - Again Bert Mayo was seen, this time with the ponies, on a revolving table. A concert, which was given after the regular performance . . . The side show is under the direction of Harry H. Hall . . . New York Clipper, May 18, 1912, p. 16.
Charles Sparks, manager of the Spark's Shows, now in winter quarters at the fair grounds, Salisbury, N.C., has re-engaged James Caskey, boss canvasman, who is now at winter quarters superintending the rehabilitation of the outfit. Fletcher Smith and six assistants are at work painting and redecorating the rolling stock. T. W. Ballinger has been re-engaged as general agent. C. S. Clark will handle the No. 1 Car. James Randolph will be special agent and James Robey(?) boss billposter on No. 1 Car. Other bosses engaged for the coming season include Jim Jacobs, boss hostler, Tom Jacobs, train master, and Jack Loraine, chandelier man. Manager Sparks will remain in Salisbury for the next month completing his roster for 1913 before going North, very few of the acts having been contracted for at this time. The season will open the latter part of March. Billboard, December 21, 1912, p. 38.
Barney Shay closed with the John H. Sparks Shows and joined the Kadell-Kritchfield Shows at Plant City, Fla. Billboard, December 21, 1912, p. 38.
1913: John H. Sparks Show - Chas. Sparks, manager; Clifton Sparks, treasurer; T. W. Ballinger, general agent; C. F. Heaton, contracting agent; Jas. Randolph, special agent; Fletcher Smith, press agent back with show; Harry H. Hall, manager sideshow; Bert Mayo, equestrian director; Jack Phillips, musical director; Lester Bartlett, superintendent reserved seat tickets; Jas. Caskey, superintendent canvas; Tom Jacobs; trainmaster; Jack Lorain, superintendent lights; Jas. Jacobs, superintendent stock; Lewis Reed, superintendent elephants; Fritz Brunner, superintendent animals; A. C. Orcutt, steward; Anderson (Red) Wion, superintendent sideshow; Edw. A. Robey, boss billposter; Clyde S. Clark, car manager. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
1914: Sparks' Shows: Sparks' Shows, Inc., proprietors; Chas. Sparks, manager; C. B. Fredericks, assistant manager; Clifton Sparks, treasurer, secretary & auditor; T. W. Ballinger, general agent; J. C. Tracey, local contractor; Van O. Diver, contracting & advance press agent; Fletcher Smith, press agent back with show; Cal Towers, manager sideshow; Bert Mayo, equestrian director; Albert Keller, supt. privileges; Jack Phillips, musical director; Leslie Bartlett, supt. reserved seat tickets; Jas. Caskey, supt. canvas; Tom Jacobs, trainmaster; Jas. Jacobs, boss hostler; Geo. Tipton, supt. commissary dept.; Jack Lorrain, supt. lights; Mr. Kelley, supt. props.; Jas. Jacobs, supt. stock; Jas. Caskey, supt. working crew; A. W. Day, 24-hour agent; Lewis Reed, supt. elephants; Red Riley, boss carpenter; Fritz Brunner, supt. animals; Jas. Randolph, manager advance car No. 1; C. B. Fredericks, legal adjuster; Fletcher Smith, announcer. Show opens at Salisbury, N.C., April 14. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 49.
1916:
• See articles on the 1916 show in Bandwagon, June 1942 and August 1942 (online).
1917: Sparks’ Show - Sparks’ Show, Inc., props.; Charles Sparks, mgr.; Clifton Sparks, treas. and auditor; Wm. Morgan, secy.; T. W. Ballinger, gen. agt. and railroad contractor; Fletcher Smith, press agt. back with show and announcer; Cal Towers, mgr. side-show; Bert Mayo, equestrian dir.; Albert Keller, supt. priv.; Jack Phillips, musical dir.; Harry Wells, supt. reserved seat tickets; George Singleton, supt. canvas; Tom Jacobs, trainmaster; Chauncey Jacobs, boss hostler; A. C. Orcutt, supt. commissary dept.; Java Cohen, supt. lights; Lee Cook, supt. properties; Lee Palmer, supt. ring stock; James Jacobs, supt. stock; Walter McGuiness, supt. working crew; E. L. Doty, 24-hour agt.; Lewis Reed, supt. elephants; Frank Skinner, boss carpenter; Fritz Brunner, supt. animals; Dan Morrison, blacksmith James Randolph, mgr. adv. car No. 2; J. C. Kelly, legal adjuster. Fifteen cars. Show opens at Salisbury, N. C., about April 10. Billboard, March 24, 1917, pp. 141, 143.
1918:
"Scottie" Weber, who was chef with the Sparks Show the past season, is in charge of the commissary department at winter quarters this winter. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 31.
With two big army stoves keeping the building at an even temperature of 60, work is going on at the Sparks Circus, wintering at Carthage, O. Fletcher Smith has a force of five men at work, and five cages only lack the gold leafing. Lewis Reed has his bulls out in the ring daily. Superintendent Gerry Vanderbilt finds time to put in several hours daily in the paint shop. Frenchie Miller is doing the master mechanic work after eight years with the Mighty Haag. Chef Scottie Webber is serving three squares a day. Frank Skinner is back at his old job, blacksmithing. The draft has hit the bunch, and Walter McLain and Chauncy Jacobs have been called. Java Cohn, chandelier man, is holding down a job for the Government at Pittsburg. . . . Billboard, February 16, 1918, p. 31.
Edward G. Holland has signed again as twenty-four hour man with the Sparks Circus. He is at home in Haworth, N.J. Billboard, March 23, 1918, p. 66.
1927: An article on the 1927 Sparks Circus is online in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1979
• Articles on the Sparks Circus from its beginning, under the ownership of John H. and Charles Sparks, through 1928 when it was purchased by the American Circus Corporation, are in:
• An article on the 1930 Sparks Circus is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1984, Vol. 28, No. 5, pp. 25-27.
Sparks Circus - 1946-47 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1946-47
James Edgar, owner. See the articles on the 1947 show in Bandwagon, January-February, Vol. 14, No. 1, 1970, pp. 4-14, and Bandwagon, March-April, Vol. 14, No. 2, 1970, pp. 20-26.
• Articles on the Sparks family and the Sparks shows, including the 1946 show are online in Bandwagon, Nov-Dec 1964.
• An article on the 1947 Sparks Circus, including the 1947 route, is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1970, pp. 20-26; and Bandwagon, September-October, 1970, pp. 22-23.
• Note: This show or people might be found on other pages on this website. Check out Billboard, Clipper, and/or do a Search
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Sparks & Allen - 1890-92 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1890-1892
1890:
Uniformly good business through Pennsylvania is the report from Allen's Great Eastern Circus, of which John H. Sparks is proprietor and manager. New York Clipper, August 9, 1890, p. 339.
Sparks Bros. & Allen's Circus closed its season at Butler, Pa., Oct. 2?, ending a prosperous tour of twenty-seven weeks. The show nearly doubled in size during its travels. Next season seven new cages of animals, a sideshow, new wagons and a calliope will be added to the outfit. New York Clipper, November 8, 1890, 558.
Wanted, circus performers, musicians, steam calliope player, trained animals, sideshow people, 12(?) billposters, and 2 good cooks for cook tents. . . . Third season opens April 16(?), '91. Wagon show for sale - one __ft. round top tent, side walls, ropes, etc., complete, no poles, made extra strength to order, and good as new [used] only three months. . . . One band wagon and other show property, cheap. Reason for selling. Everything will be new and show enlarged for '91. Address John H. Sparks, manager, Sparks & Allen's Circus, East Brady, Pa. New York Clipper, November 15, 1890, 574.
Wanted, for Sparks & Allen's Shows, Equine Paradox. Strong sensational acts (female preferred) and any novel acts, etc. that can be used in circus; performers doing two or more acts preferred. Address John H. Sparks, East Brady, Pa. New York Clipper, December 27, 1890, p. 670.
1891:
Manager John H. Sparks has purchased a lot of new cages for Sparks & Allen's Show. This promises to be one of the best wagon shows for the coming season, with new tents, wagons, etc., combined with an attractive spectacle. New York Clipper, January 17, 1891, p. 714.
George Hartell, clown . . . signed with Sparks & Allen's Circus . . . New York Clipper, January 31, 1891, p. 743.
John H. Sparks, of Sparks & Allen's Shows, has purchased of Walter L. Main five(?) of the latters best wagons, including the advance wagon. It is the intention to have three advertising and property wagons ahead of the show next season. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
The Belfords, George and Mollie, and Levay, the juggler, have signed with Sparks & Allen's Shows for next season. New York Clipper, February 14, 1891, p. 779.
Allen & Co.'s Great Eastern Shows opened their season April 2? at East Brady, Pa. Fine weather favored the performances, and the tents were crowded both afternoon and evening. The roster: Allen & Co., proprietors; John H. Sparks, manager; C. R. Dougherty, secretary; W. A. Baxter, general agent; Harry Alger, in charge of advance brigade, with eight assistants; Prof. Chas. Gregory, equestrian director . . . George and Mollie Belford . . . Prof. Gregory . . . Belford Bros. . . . Prof. Allen; Mollie Belford; Harry Delmain; George Belford; George Hartzell; Walter Hall; Charles Gregory . . . Phil Apple; H. H. Wittier . . . B. Bowen . . . M. Wilder; G. Adams; G.(?) C. Bodley; A. Todd; W. Stradley . . . C. Sparks; Signor Nevarro; Mlle. Addie; Mlle. Edith; Wm. Turner; Tony White . . . Chas. Badger; Charlie Sparks; George O'Hart; Seeman and Burke; George Hartzell; Wm. Mitchell . . . Chas. Conway; Wm. Williamson . . . Joe Sheridan and James Kelly. The show uses . . . three horse tents and cook tent, and travels by wagons, using 70(?) head of horses. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 135.
Notes from the Allen Shows. Business for the first week has been more than satisfactory, Geo. Belford is making a hit in head balancing act on the trapeze. Chas. Gregory is also catching the audience with his dancing barrel act. Capt. Bartlett is one of the features of the street parade, giving exhibitions of fancy rifle shooting on the street. Manager John H. Sparks is making a hit with his clarinet solo which preceded the big show. Lowery and Madden, song and dance performers, joined April 28, and are a feature of the concerts. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150.
Wanted, quick. A1 cook, _ and 6 horse drivers, snakes, monkeys and A1 contortionist doing flying perch, etc. J. H. Sparks, manager, address Circus, Penfield, Pa., May 8, Du Bois 9. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 163.
On the road, circuses: Sparks & Allen's, Roaring Springs, Pa. May 28, Martinsburg 29, Woodbury 30, Hopewell June 1, Saxton 2. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
Notes from Sparks & Allen's Circus. This show has been doing a fine business since the opening. George Gregory joined June 9, at Mt. Holly Springs, Pa. He is working on the triple horizontal bars better than ever. His doubles from the bars make a great hit. He is working in connection with his brother Charles. Seeman and Burke made their first appearance in their new perch act, at Marietta, June 15(?), and scored an instantaneous hit. The Fourth of July at Delta, Pa., was a big affair, the tents being packed to the ring banks at each performance. The Fourth was also Charles Gregory's birthday. He did not forget the "boys," and had liquid refreshments served to all hands. Evidently he was not forgotten, for, at the conclusion of his barrel act (which closed the show), at night, Sig. Nevaro stepped forward, and, in a neat speech, presented him, in behalf of the company, with a fine gold watch and chain. Mr. Gregory was completely taken by surprise, but finally recovered his"wind," and responded in good shape. Everybody is well and happy. Everything is running smoothly, and the spectre in white perambulates with great regularity. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 296.
Notes from Sparks & Allen's Shows. We are now in our thirteenth week of continued prosperity. The fancy rifle shooting of Capt. H.(B.?) A. Bartlett, wife and daughter makes a decided hit, as does also the Japanese juggling act of Harry Belmain. George and Mollie Belford, in their double trapeze act, come in for a large share of applause. The musical act of Sparks Bros. and the burlesque boxing bout between Madden and Lowery continue special features of the concert. Everybody is well and happy. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
Phil Apple returned home on Tuesday noon. He has been playing with the Sparks & Allen's circus band. Indiana Progress (Indiana, PA), Wednesday, August 6, 1891.
Notes from Sparks & Allen's Shows. We are now in the fifteenth(?) week of continued prosperity. The leaping over eight horses by our corps of leapers, led by George Gregory and ___, is one of the leading features. The Belford Bros. are still making hits. George Hartzell contributes to the fun department in large quantities. Prof. C. J. Gregory's trained horses, Prince and Dolly, are working finely, and always come in for their share of applause. Red Eagle, Indian contortionist, closed July __ at Bedford, Pa. . . . New York Clipper, August 8, 1891, p. 365.
Notes from Sparks & Allen's Circus. We are now in our twenty-second week, and still there is no diminuation in the large business which has followed this show from the start. We now have __ leapers who do doubles in the batoute leaping . . . Chas.(?) Gregory continues to win great applause for his equilibrist act. The band, under the leadership of Prof. Eugene Wack, is one of the best features of the show. . . . New York Clipper, September 26, 1891, p. 484.
Sparks & Allen's Circus is reported to be meeting with much success in Pennsylvania. Manager Sparks is now traveling ahead, while C. J. Gregory has charge of the show. H. H.(?) Whittier has a fine route book in preparation. New York Clipper, October 3, 1891, p. 502.
Notes from Sparks & Allen's Circus. Business continues good. The "boys" are beginning to form plans for the winter. C. J. Gregory is organizing a strong combination to play week stands in the principal cities. It will be known as the Gregory Bros. Co.(?) He has some very good time booked. Eugene Mack has signed with Vreeland's Operatic Minstrels. . . . Madden and Lowery have a big budget of new songs and dances, which they will use this winter. Manager Sparks is back with the show again, and everything is running smoothly. New York Clipper, October 10, 1891, p. 518.
The Sparks & Allen Shows closed their season of twenty-six weeks at Butler(?), Pa., Oct. 17(?), and at once shipped to East Brady, where the winter quarters are located. Nearly all the performers are engaged for the Gregory Bros.' Co., which opens at the World's Museum, Pittsburg, this week. Manager Sparks will take out an "U. T. C." Co. during the winter season. At the conclusion of the night show at Butler, ?. H. Whittier, who had been acting as mail carrier during the tenting season, was presented by the performers and musicians with an elegant gold watch and chain as a token of their appreciation of his services. Manager Sparks intends to enlarge his show next season . . . New York Clipper, October 24, 1891, p. 552.
1892:
Wanted, for side show with Sparks & Allen's Great Eastern Circus. A circassian lady that can handle snakes(?) and furnish a ___ painting . . . Prof. Geo. T. Golt, manager side show with Sparks & Allen's Circus, United States Hotel, Wilmington, Del. New York Clipper, January 30, 1892, p. 787.
Wanted, boss canvasman. Will buy 100ft. round top, stables, troughs, etc. Address J. H. Sparks, East Brady, Pa., Sparks & Allen's Circus. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 30.
Last week fire destroyed all the tents, seats, poles, etc., belonging to Sparks & Allen's Circus, together with two advance wagons, twenty sets of double harness and jack and seat wagons. The balance of the show, twelve wagons, stock, etc., was in another building, and consequently saved. The show will open, as usual, in April with a new outfit. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
A. J. Anderson . . . has secured the privileges with Sparks & Allen's Circus, now touring Pennsylvania, to reported good business. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 165.
Wanted, quick, contortionist or flying trapeze [song] and dance man, all must do two or more turns. People doubling brass preferred. Address Sparks & Allen's Circus, Altoona, Pa. May 19, Bellwood 20, Osceola 21. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 174.
Wanted, circus performers, musicians, concert people (doubling brass), bill posters, boss hostler, canvas man, etc. Enlarging show for the East. Address Sparks & Allen's Circus . . . New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 273.
Notes from Sparks & Allen's Circus. "Biz" has been big for the past four weeks in New Jersey and New York. Many important changes and improvements have taken place. Our band now numbers ten mouthpieces, and the show runs as smoothly as clock work. H.(?) G. Alger and Wm. ?. Miller have joined our advance. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 340.
On the road, circuses: Sparks & Allen's, Delhi NY Aug 5 . . . Hunter 9, Windham 10. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 341.
On the road, circuses: Sparks & Allen's, Windham NY Aug 10. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 361.
Sparks & Allen's Circus. We are now on our eighteenth week, and the season has proven the best in the history of this show. For the past two months we have had beautiful weather. The proprietors have decided to put a first class country circus on the road about Nov. 15(?), playing all the best towns through to the Pacific Coast, carrying all their ponies, donkeys and dogs, and mounted parade, big band, and decorate the inside of opera houses with their tents, giving a regular old time one ring circus performance. New York Clipper, September 3, 1892, p. 406.
Wanted, manager for country circus. Winter season to opera houses. Also wanted for balance tenting season, boss hostlers, drivers and canvasmen. Musicians and song and dance man. Address Sparks & Allen's Circus, Hamilton, N.Y. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 434.
H. A. Mann has closed with Chas. Lee's London Shows as general agent, and has joined the advance of Sparks & Allen's Great Eastern Circus. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 505.
From the Fred Locke Show. Wm. De Boe joins Sparks & Allen's Winter Circus. New York Clipper, October 22, 1892, p. 522.
Sparks & Allen's Circus closed on Oct. 29, after a profitable season of twenty-seven weeks. The show will be enlarged and improved for next season. New York Clipper, November 12, 1892, p. 570.
Geo. S. Cole has purchased a half interest in the Sparks & Allen Circus. The show will be newly equipped for next season and it is promised that it will be made one of the best wagon shows on the road. Two elephants and ten cages of animals will be added to the menagerie. New York Clipper, December 17, 1892, p. 654.
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Sparling Bros. Circus
Produced by George Garden, the show played five weeks in Ontario, Canada in the Spring, mostly in hockey rinks. Bandwagon, January-February, 1991, p. 19.
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Sparrow's Pavilion Show - 1886
New Orleans, Louisiana. H. C. Danforth left to join Sparrow's Circus in Canada. New York Clipper, April 24, 1886, p. 83.
Fred Runnells will go to Canada for the Summer, under engagement to Mr. Sparrow of Jacobs & Sparrow. New York Clipper, May 22, 1886, p. 155.
Sparrow's Royal Pavilion Shows will begin rehearsals in Montreal, Can., June 4. Silvo is to travel with Sparrow's Tent Show for the Summer, commencing June 6 (5?). New York Clipper, May 29, 1886, p. 171.
Call. All people engaged for Sparrow's Royal Pavilion Show are requested to report at Montreal for rehearsal Jun 4. J. B. Sparrow. New York Clipper, May 29, 1886, p. 174.
Montreal, Canada. Sparrow's Pavilion Show opened 5, and was well attended. D. R. Hawley, a member of the company, while practicing a triple somersault, fell and severely injured his spine. New York Clipper, June 12, 1886, p. 199.
Sparrow's Royal Pavilion Show opened season June 5 in Montreal, Can. The gymnast Moulton, Topack and Steele, the Morello Bros., Mlle. Milton, Sparrow's educated ponies and Fred Runnells comprise the show. New York Clipper, June 12, 1886, p. 200.
Montreal, Canada. Sparrow's Royal Pavilion Show is doing well at 25 and 35 cents. It leaves here June 21 for Sorel, Que. Col. John Foster and Mme. Dubsky are making hits with the party. David R. Hawley died 10. Forepaugh's agent has been here urging the prosecution of Sparrow & Jacobs for running a circus without a provincial license ($200 per day). [An Associated Press dispatch says the show was seized 10(?) by the Government on account of the license trouble, but we have had no such advices, and our latest letter from the show is dated 13. - Ed. Clipper.] New York Clipper, June 19, 1886, p. 215.
Circus acts of all kinds except riding are wanted for Sparrow's Pavilion Show. Manager H. C. Danforth will be at the Revere House, Toronto, this week. Sparrow's Royal Pavilion Shows opened for one week 2 at the Zoological Gardent, Tornoto. New York Clipper, August 7, 1886, pp. 327, 329.
Montreal, Canada. The argument on the writ of prohibition taken by J. B. Sparrow against the Colletor of the Provincial Revenue came up for hearing in the Superior Court, and was postponed till 18, to give time to Mr. Sparrow to bring on witnesses. This case will be remembered as one in which the Collector of Provincial Revenue served a writ of seizure on a show of his, which recently performed here, on the ground that it was a circus, and as such, subject to a tax of $200(?) for each performance. Mr. Sparrow held that it was not a circus, and took the writ of prohibition. The lawyer who appeared on behalf of the Revenue desired the case to be heard at once, as Mr. Sparrow was exhibiting his circus in different parts of the country, and the inspectors of Revenue were unable to levy a tax upon him pending the decision of the case. Mr. Sparrow's lawyer argued to adjournment and it was granted. New York Clipper, August 14, 1886, p. 343.
Montreal Canada. The Sparrow case was argued in the Superior Court a few days ago. The judgment will be rendered in a few days. The alleged circus finished its tour 7 in Toronto. It is stated that the venture was not successful. New York Clipper, September 4, 1886, p. 389.
Gregory & Co.'s Circus purchased the entire Sparrow outfit, which was known as the "Royal Pavilion Shows," 20. H. C. Danforth has secured the sideshow privilege. New York Clipper, September 11, 1886, p. 404.
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Sparton Bros. Circus Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1938-1950 (Charles E. Sparton)
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Spaun's Railroad Show - 1900
Opened at Port Jervis, New York, May 14 for one week to good business. Mr. Gordon Wrighter is manager. Billboard, May 21, 1900, p. 5. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or the persons.
Byron Spaun's - 1908, 1912, 1920 Byron Spaun's listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1888-1912; Spaun Family Circus, 1923
1908: Byron Spaun's circus, which exhibited in Rome July 7, gave its last performance in Norwich last Tuesday. The Norwich Sun says: "Byron Spaun retires from the circus business and will hereafter devote his attention to the vaudeville entertainments now touring Pennsylvania. Mr. Spaun's circus has given good satisfaction, but he found it to be a losing investment and wisely abandons it, having given his employes due notice of his intention, and most of them have secured other positions. Rome Daily Sentinel (Rome, NY), July 17, 1908, n.p.n.
1912: Byron Spaun, proprietor of Spaun's Wagon Show, has purchased a touring car for advance work. Mr. Spaun thinks that the auto will be far superior to the usual advance wagon. New York Clipper, August 24, 1912, p. 16.
1920: The Spaun Family Show will open early in April with a new big top and an electric light plant. All the trucks are being overhauled at winter quarters, Linnville, O. George Dorr, who was musical director with this show twenty-two years ago, will lead the band this season. Mr. Spaun's daughter, Florence, and Byron Jr., are the third generation of Spauns in the show business. Billboard, March 20, 1920, p. 84.
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Circus Spectacular - 1994
The Indoor Circus Spectacular exhibited in Tennessee and North Carolina from October 7 to 19, 1994. Owners were Dean Della Loggia and Barry Yiengst. Bandwagon, March-April, 1995, p. 17.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1994-1996.
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Frank Spellman's - 1914, 1918-19
• Bradbury's comprehensive article on Frank Spellman's shows, with brief information on his 1914-16 shows, and in-depth information on his 1919 motorized circus, with three years of planning and only three days of operation, is online in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1962.
1913: Paul Bloom has joined Frank Spellman's Circus, which is made up of the following acts: Ledgett and Dollie Julian, formerly with Barnum & Bailey; Bob Stickney Family, riders; Laurette Sisters, iron jaw; Art Eldridge, working Col. Hall's (not Pop) elephants. Billboard, December 27, 1913, p. 57.
1914: Cleveland, May 27. Mme. Marietta Correia, rider, and her daughter, Mlle. Amelia Correia, put Constable Frank Temple of Akron, O., in the circus business last week — at least, they turned over to his keeping two Saharan camels, several bears, three elephants, horses and mules, the property of the Frank P. Spellman Combined Shows, Inc. An attachment was served for these women for salary which they claimed was due them. The circus was due to appear in Newcastle, Pa., but the attachment prevented departure, and it looks as though the shows would not be able to get out for some time to come. The Correia women had been with the Spellman circus since the opening of the present season. No money could they get for salaries, and they reported they did not have a cent when they filed suit for their pay. Several other attachment suits were about to be filed by other performers when Mme. Correia went to law. Just now Constable Temple is feeding the animals at the city's expense. Variety, May 29, 1914, p. 8.
1918:
Frank Spellman's United States Motorized Circus is scheduled to open May 6 in Toledo, and then to Detroit for two days. The show will exhibit in Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Springfield and Cincinnati, beating the other shows to most of these points. It is then intended to play all of the New England States except Maine. Billboard, March 2, 1918, p. 62.
Al Holstein holds contracts to manage the sideshow with the Spellman U. S. Motorized Circus, but is still with the Williams Standard Shows, handling his own attractions. Billboard, June 8, 1918, p. 27.
Frank P. Spellman of the New York Motor Circus Corp., sets May 6, 1919 as the opening date of the attractions, if the war is ended. If not, the circus will remain in winter quarters at Toledo. . . . Billboard, October 12, 1918, p. 27.
1919:
Frank P. Spellman, the directior general, announces that America's Combined Motorized Circus will take the road, the initial performance at Columbus, O., July 17, following which the show wil play prominent cities and towns in the Middle West. The season will be twenty weeks, the tour closing in the South early in December. Louis E. Cooke, veteran circus man, is identified with the outfit as general advance manager. The performance will be in the hands of Burns O'Sullivan as equestrian director. Other engagements include John Buck, supt. of canvas; Andrew Dobbins, supt. properties; R. Breckenridge, manager of sideshow, and J. W. Hammond, master of transportation.
Columbus, O., Aug. 16. America's Combined Motorized Circus, under the direction of Frank P. Spellman, opened the season here last night. Among the acts are Helen Osborn, in her 50 foot high dive; Miss Millman (sister of Bird Millman), in a "strong teeth" act; Adgie and her lions and the Robert Stickney family of equestrians. Other acts will join the show in a few days. Executive staff includes Louis E. Cooke, W. E. Richards, W. W. Cole, Burns O. Sullivan, C. M. Henry, Jack Walz, Art Eldrige and Jake Posey. Billboard, August 23, 1919, p. 86.
Columbus, O., Aug. 11. Four famous circus bosses have been engaged by America's Combined Motorized Circus, which opens here this week. They are Art Eldridge, general superintendent; Jake Posey, transportation superintendent; C. M. Henry, formerly with Barnum & Bailey Show, in charge of the cookhouse, and Jack Walt, formerly with the Buffalo Bill Show, superintendent of lights. Burns O'Sullivan, formerly with the Barnum Show, will be equestrian director. Adgie and lions will be a feature, also the famous Stickney Family. Billboard, August 16, 1919, p. 86.
Canton, O., Aug. 23. America's Combined Motorized Circus disbanded at Coshocton, O., Friday when representatives of the Kelley-Springfield Company seized trucks and other equipment to satisfy claims. This company built most of the trucks. The show was billed to play Coshocton Tuesday, August 19, but did not arrive until Thursday, the 21st, from Newark, O. Newspapers and billposting companies at Dover, O., Canton and other cities on the route have claims against the show. Lack of finances is blamed for the fiasco, it being said the show started out on a bank roll of $2,000. The Stickney Family and some of the other performers are reported stranded in Coshocton, along with a number of the working people. Louis E. Cooke, the general agent, is reported ill at Hudson, O. Frank P. Spellman, director general of the show, is still at Coshocton, but declined to comment on the show's failure. Billboard, August 30, 1919, p. 102.
Cleveland, O., Sept. 6. Frank P. Spellman will handle all the moving picture business and be the personal business manager for Jack Dempsey. Upon completion of his contract with Dempsey, Spellman will retire from the show business to assume the office of president and general manager of a large automobile concern, which position starts November 1. Billboard, September 13, 1919, p. 7.
More on the 1919 Spellman's motorized show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down or use find.
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Col. Spicer's Circus - 1886
The roster of Col. Spicers'Circus is as follows: Col. Spicers, proprietor; J. M. Barry, manager; H. D. Armstrong, business-manager and general-agent, with six assistants and three wagons; Lon Cole, manager of annex; Louis Barry, treasurer; Frank Pecard, boss of canvas; W. A. Humbly, superintendent of privileges; Prof. Louis S. Deisback, leader of baud and orchestra. Performers — C. E. Murphy, De Castro Bros., Harry Laveer and wife, Edward Nelson and family, Rea and Roe, Louis and Edward Stone, James Harris, Frankie Barry, Maimie Deisback and Sadie Deisback. New York Clipper, May 8, 1886.
Col. Spicer's circus, known as the World's Fair and Congress of Living Wonders, will visit Belleville May 12th. They have a fine band and chariot and will give a free street parade at noon and evening, also a good show at the tents before each entertainment. No confidence men or gamblers are allowed in or around the show ground. Bellville Telescope (Belleville, KS), May 6, 1886, n.p.n.
• Information on the 1886 Col. Spicer's World's Fair and Congress of Living Wonders is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1990, Vol. 33, No. 1, pp. 48-49.
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Z. W. Sprague's - 1880
Z. W. Sprague’s circus organization is rapidly approaching completion. A building has been erected in Dundee, Ill., where horses and men are training. Mr. Mayo will be the superintendent, and E. C. Thurber business manager. New York Clipper, March 6, 1880.
Sprague's Colossal Circus and Great Electric Light Show is to begin its season May 1, the first stand at Dundee, Illinois, where the troupe is now forming. Z. W. Sprague is proprietor and manager; __ Thurber, treasurer; William Mayo, director . . . A. F. Wood, master of billposting brigade; E. Young, press agent; M. A. Thurber, lithograpehr; __ Kingcade, equestrian director; James Kingcade, hurdle and Indian rider; Mlle Etta, equestrian; Niblo, French pantomime clown . . . G. De Castro and Dick Oglesby, clowns; Mme. De La Costa, Mlle. Elise, C. W. Pringle and Mons. Magny, general performers; fifteen tumblers and leapers. The show will travel by wagons, visiting smaller towns. New York Clipper, April 17, 1880, p. 27.
Wanted immediately for Sprague's Colossal Circus and Great Electric Light Show, a lady rider. Z. W. Sprague, Proprietor, Olympic Theatre, Chicago. New York Clipper, April 24, 1880, p. 39.
Wash Blodgett, the great showman, now with Sprague's Colossal Circus and Great Electric Light Show, was in the city today. His show will be at Pecatonia on the 31st of this month. Freeport Daily Bulletin (Freeport, IL), May 19, 1880, n.p.n.
Z. W. Sprague's Circus, organized this season in Chicago by the well-known proprietor of Sprague's Georgia Minstrels, came to a sudden "conclusion" a few days ago in Michigan or Wisconsin. New York Clipper, July 24, 1880, p. 139.
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Springer's Royal Cirqzoolodon
• Show opened in Detroit, May 3, 1875. J. E. Warner was manager. Bandwagon, January-February, 1970, pp. 22-23.
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St. Germain's Imperial Circus - 1889
St. Germain's Imperial Circus opened its season at Shakopee, Minn. Roster: Jos. St. Germain, proprietor; Henry N. La Rose, manager; James Scott, agent; Ed Fralando, William Nichols . . . Frank Buckley, Chas. Cummings, Chas. Williams, Emery Smith, Gus Warren, St. Germain Bros., Harry Wesley, Lloyd Bros., contortionists; Holmes and Grover, bars; Miss Freddie Arlington, trapeze; Fanny Roe, dog circus; Jennie Wheeler, rider; Maud Jennings, menage act. New York Clipper, June 15, 1889, p. 225.
St. Germain's Imperial Circus. Henry Jerome is agent. Ed. Fralando was presented July 4 with a spotted horse and buggy. Mr. Fralando is running the sideshow and concert. New York Clipper, July 27, 1889, p. 321.
St. Germaine, proprietor of the Imperial Circus, has purchased the steamer Admiral Dot, and is now on his way South down the Mississippi with his show aboard. New York Clipper, November 9, 1889, p. 582.
St. Germaine's Circus made their first stand at Rock Island, Ill., instead of St. Paul, Minn. as previously reported. New York Clipper, November 16, 1889, p. 605.
Prof. Estis is with the St. Germain Show, and has the concert and sideshow privileges. New York Clipper, November 23, 1889, p. 615.
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St. Julian's Royal Circus - 1895
Notes from Dan St. Julian's Royal Circus. We are in our fourth week, and business is fair through Western Pennsylvania. We next tour Ohio. Roster: Dan St. Julian, proprietor and manager; Harry Davis, privileges; Ollie Taylor, advance agent with eight hustlers; Bob Bailey, boss canvasman with ten assistants; Geo. Owens, boss hostler with eight assistants; Harry Strong, boss property man with six assistants; Prof. Wood's band of eight soloists. Performers: Harry Ellis(?), equestrian director; Dan St. Julian and Madge Earl, double trapeze and breakaway ladder; Andella, contortionist; Willis Van, principal leaper and tumbler; Ross Bros., triple bars and three brother act . . . Amy La Van, slack wire and lady clown. The concert is under the charge of Edward Warren. Performers: Edward Warren, black face comedian; William Praul, banjo soloist; Andy Watkins, Dutch comedian; Arlington Sisters, double song and dance and skipping rope; Madge Earl, serio comic, and Sol Kappe, club swinger and juggler. New York Clipper, July 6, 1895, p. 274.
Notes from Dan St. Julian's Royal Circus. Recent additions to the show are Regent and wife, return act and outside ascension; Harry Allen, contortion, and the Arabs' impalement act. Charles Taylor now looks after the surplus cash in the ticket wagon. The advance is under O. J. Taylor. New York Clipper, July 27, 1895, p. 325.
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Staats Bros. Show - 1913
Staats Bros. Show - E. E. Staats and Roland Staats, proprietors; Jack Clark, manager; Chas. Frick, general agent; Geo. Ragner, contracting press agent; Chas. Calahan, musical director; Ginger White, superintendent canvas; Patrick Dougherty, superintendent elephants; Dinis Dugan, checker-up. Show opens at Washington, N. J., May 1. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
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Stadel Bros. - 1895-96
• Information on the 1895 show, Fred and Al Stadel, owners, online in Bandwagon, August 1943. 1896 show, online in Bandwagon, June 1944.
1896: We are informed that Stadell Bros.' Circus went under at Ellicottville, New York, after four weeks of fairly good business, leaving their men stranded at that place. New York Clipper, June 13, 1896, p. 232.
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Stang Bros. - 1892, 1897
1892:
Wanted, for Stang Bros. United Monster 25 Cent Shows. Acrobats, gymnasts, aerial people, singling clown, juggler, ball kickers, brother act, concert people. Wanted, boss canvasman, chandellier man, etc. Would like to hear from crack circus band, six mouthpieces. Show travels by wagon, short jumps. Stang Bros., Burlington, Racine Co., Wis. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 31.
Call. Stang Bros.' United Shows. All people engaged report at Burlington, Wis., Wednesday, May 4(?). Would like to hear from circus people who can double in concert. Also horizontal bar team. Can use three more bill posters. Stang Bros., Burlington, Wis. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 112.
Wanted, for Stang Bros.' Circus, at once: boss canvas man, 80(?)ft. round top and good people in all branches. Wire or meet at Port Washington, Wis., May 19, Fredonia 20, West Bend 21, Kewaskum 23, Campbellsport 24. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 173.
1897:
Notes from Stang Bros. Old Time One Ring Show. Our winter quarters are at Burlington, Wisconsin. We are getting a new big top canvas, 90ft. round top with a 40ft. middle piece; new 30ft. round top dressing tent; two large horse tents, and a large cook tent. We are contracting for ten new wagons, all to be painted white and heavily gilded. We will carry fifty head of stock. New York Clipper, January 2, 1897, p. 705.
Capt. Stewart has secured the sideshow privileges with Stang Bros.' Old Fashioned American Circus. New York Clipper, February 6, 1897, p. 781.
Flakes from Stang Bros.' Old Time one Ring Shows. The following people have signed for the coming season: Prof. O. F. Shaw, with band of ten pieces; Clarence Barton, equestrian director; three Bardell Bros., four Holloway Bros., Smith and wife, Hamilton Bros., Rose Stickney and Prof. C. A. Hibbard. Jack Robertson, boss canvasman; George Day, chandeliers; Clarence Underwood and John D. Smith, property men; W. Stone, boss hostler, and Jack Wilson and John Weber, four and six horse drivers. Captain Stewart has engaged the sideshow privileges. Eight of the new wagons will be finished this week. New York Clipper, February 13, 1897, p. 799.
Notes form Stang Bros.' Old Time One Ring Show. We open May 8, at Burlington, Wisconisn. The eighteen wagons are decorated in white, red and gold. We carry an 80ft. round top with 40ft. middle piece; sideshow annex, 70ft. with 40ft. middle; dressing tent, 30ft.; three six pole horse tents and 30ft. cook tent. The proprietors and managers are Val, Lor and Frank Stang; H. C. Leslie, general contracting agent; Harry D. Mack, asst. general agent; Wm. Rapp, W. C. Teedy, Wm. Gilman, Matt Weber, Alex Fitzsimmons, billposters; Clarence Underwood, programmer; Jack Robertson in charge of canvas with ten assistants; George Day, chandeliers with two assistants; Wm. Paul, boss seat man, four assistants; Frank W. Stone, boss hostler, sixteen assistants; John King, cook house with foru assistants; Prof. C. F. Shaw's military band, including Herman Scott, Frank Stang, Val Stang, George Nehman, John Mowry, Ben Halloway, G. McElvin, Frank Tilden, A. Madison and Frank Ball. Performers engaged so far are Albert Lowande and wife, principal riders; Hamilton Bros., hurdle riders; Burtch and Shepard, equilibrists and contortion; Three Bendell Bros., aerial; Four Holloway Bros., brother and trapeze; Prof. C. A. Hibbard, wire act and juggler; Charles and Mabel Smith, clown and contortion; Clarence Burton, equestrian director. The annex is under the management of Capt. Stewart, with G. F. Woodworth, treasurer and tickets; Mrs. G. F. Woodworth, second sight and reptile charmer; McMillan, Albino and musical act; Prof. Wallace, sword swallower, and Mme. Uno, female sampson. We carry fifty head of stock, exclusive of twelve blooded animals for ring use, and tour Wisconsin exclusively this season. New York Clipper, May 1, 1897, p. 141.
Notes from Stang Bros.' Show. We are in our fifth week. Complete roster: Stang Bros.; Ed Zwiebel, treasurer; Clarence Burton, equestrian director; Abelardo and Millie Lowande, principal bareback and carrying act; Prof. Clarence Hibbard, slack wire; Four Holloway Bros., horizontal bars, traps and brother act; Hamilton Bros., posturing; Mons. Shepperd, aerialist, chair pyramids and contornion; Frank Harlan, singing clown; Andy Burtch and Mons. Shepperd, box act; Ben Holloway, balancing trapeze; Savoy Bros., carrying perch; Ed Marble, perch; John Hamilton, horseman, hurdle act; Ed Le Beau, principal clown; Petite Marie, contortion, and Prof. Marice and his troupe of educated dogs, goats and monkeys. The band, under the leadership of Chas. F. Shaw, consists of Claude Holloway, Max Berlin, Herman Scott, John Morey . . . Green, McElvains, Adolph Schneider, Al Klein, Geo. King and Al Goodman. Concert: Laura Belle Loraine, songs and skirt dances; Ben Tanner, man with iron chest; Carl Shaw, song and dance; Ben Mlinadsky, saxophone soloist; Berlin and Simpkins, wrestlers, and Eddie Austin, black face comedian. Our annex, under the management of Capt. Stewart: Prof. Lew Wallace, fire king and Punch and Judy; G. W. Woodworth, treasurer; Fred Pfifer, musical act and comedian . . . Emma Wallace, female Sampson; Joe Sites, magic; Shorty Sites, in charge of canvas. David J. Simpson is boss canvasman, with fifteen men; Geo. Baker, boss property man with five assistants; Geo. Day, chandelier man; Dick Kiel, boss hostler; John King, cook tent with six assistants. We use an eighty foot top with a forty foot middle piece and a forty foot dressing top, and five horse tents, and forty head of stock to transport us, with two advance brigades. New York Clipper, June 19, 1897, p. 253.
• Brief information on this show is in Fred Dahlinger, Jr. & Stuart Thayer, Badger State Showmen, Baraboo, WI: Circus World Museum, 1998, pp. 106-107.
Note: This show or people might be found on other pages on this website. Check out Billboard, Clipper, and/or do a Search
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Stanley Bros. - 1929
Ford City, March 27. Ford City will have its first circus on May 7 and it will be a Ford City product. The Stanley Brothers Shows which will start from here for a tour by truck will open its season here. Stanley Olinger will be general manager of the outfit and it is now being framed up at the Olinger farm ready for the road. Six trucks will be used. Daily Leader Times (Ford City, PA), March 27, 1929, p. 1.
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Star Bros. Circus - 1934
Tom Atkinson and E. J. McCollister became partners in a show titled Star Bros. Circus in 1934. It opened in North Little Rock, Arkansas, made a few towns in that State and then went to Tennessee. Atkinson was also lot superintendent and McCollister was Treasurer. The partnership was dissolved in December and Atkinson became sole owner. Atkinson and John D. Foss purchased the Duggan Bros. Circus equipment and titled their show Barney Bros. Wild Animal Circus for 1935. Bandwagon, September-October, 1993, pp. 23-24.
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Star Family Circus - 1999
Owned by Oscar Garcia, the show played small fairs in 1999. The performance was put on by Garcia, his wife Kathy, and their three children. Bandwagon, March-April, 2000, p. 22.
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Star Spangled Circus - 1983, 1993
1983: Owned by Todd Robinson, Bill Phillips and Tom Cathro, this fund raising show out of New Jersey was out in 1983. Bandwagon, January-February, 1984, p. 13.
1993: Owner Dwight Damon's Star Spangled Circus exhibited at the Deerfield, New Hampshire fair. Damon was ringmaster. Bandwagon, January-February, 1994, p. 15.
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Star State Circus - 1852
Star State Circus. H. N. Maltby, manager. The manager announces to the citizens of Austin that his corps of performers will appear Thursday and Friday evening next, for two nights only. Mad. Ella Nunn, equestrienne; Mr. Horace M. Smith, bareback and scenic rider; Young Edgar, two horse act and rope performance; Jean Harpier, clown; J. F. O'Connell, Irish dancer and tatooed man; Young Mr. Johnson, leaper; Mr. Armstrong, light balancing and plate spinning; Wm. H. Hugh, equestrian director. The above concern will exhibit at "Webber's Prairie" June 21st, at Bastrop, 22d and 23d. J. H. Thompson, agent. South-Western American (Austin, TX), June 16, 1852, p. 3.
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Stark Bros.
• Stark Bros. an overland show out in 1927. Bandwagon, May-June, 1988, p. 7.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, Eli Nelson, proprietor, 1927-28.
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Starr Bros. Circus - 1998-99
1998: The 1998 show took place in two rings, owner John "Gopher" Davenport. This show was King Royal for many previous years. Bandwagon, March-April, 1999, pp. 15-16.
1999: Star Bros. Big Top Circus, owned by John and Charles Davenport, exhibited in Maui, Hawaii early in January. By the end of May they were playing western Washington, on their way to Alaska. The show then toured Canada through October 22. Bandwagon, March-April, 2000, pp. 13-14.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1999-, John and Charles Davenport, owners.
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Starrett's Shows - 1906, 1908-09, 1911-12, 1916
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909-1911
1906: Starrett's Society Shows . . . Chas. Hopper, singing and talking clown, is with the Starrett Show, making his third season with this attraction. New York Clipper, June 30, 1906, p. 511.
1908: Starrett Show notes. Aug. 12 was Mr. Starrett's birthday, and we celebrated the event in Peconic, L.I. The band members, advance men and clowns presented Mr. Starrett with a fine watch fob, . . . with a horse's head in the center. The canvasmen and others with the show presented him with a neat pair of cuff buttons. Mr Starrett at noon gave a very fine chicken dinner, with the best of vegetables, and winding up with pie and ice cream that made the boys smile. During the pleasant sunny day Mr. Starrett took a fine set of circus pictures, some of which will be sent to the Clipper. Everybody is singing, and the day is spent like a little rest for their season's faithfulness, until to-night, when the band will strike up and the show will go on as ever. Howard Starrett Jr., leading and singing clown, was hurt in one of the big comedy horse acts, but is now coming around all right. Ed. Williams, the boss canvasman and old reliable, while on parade, driving one of the high wagons, was bruised very badly about the nose by the branch of an old tree. The boys laugh every time they see him coming, but they can't help it. While playing Southold, Mr. and Mrs. Starrett and Howard B.(?) Jr. were invited to dinner by Mr. Post, where a very pleasant afternoon was spent. . . . Pat Rooney . . . " New York Clipper, August 28, 1908, p. 738.
1909:
Starrett's Show: Howard S. Starrett, proprietor; Fred Bernekamp, general agent. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 81.
Starrett's Circus has been on the road since May 3, and has been playing to packed tents, owing to the good weather and our refined performances. Our parade is up-to-date and is led by Mr. and Mrs. Starett, mounted upon very fine menage horses. They are followed by a very pretty band wagon, drawn by four calico horses, that are plumed so as to make the array the talk of the town. They are followed by many small carts, ponies and funny clowns. Between each selection ??? our eight-piece band plays, the clown band, led by Howard S. Starrett Jr., creates laughter . . . and sets the youngsters in an uproar. But when he shakes his big clown feet at them they just scream with delight and do not miss seeing him at the evening performance. On July 4 we all were invited for a ??? on the bay, on the launch of one of Port Washington's prominent citizens, who was, in return, treated to a real circus dinner. at 12 o'clock, the same night, after the big top had been loaded, we had a clambake. . . . The roster of our show follows: Howard S. Starett, sole owner and manager; Mrs. Starrett, high class riding act; Howard S. Starrett Jr., leading and singing clown; Howard Sweet, cornetist and leader of band; John Fetter, trombone; Jas. Welch, bass; Frank Martin, trap drummer; James Smith, cornetist; . . . William Roff(?), clarinet; . . . Herbert Brown, cornetist; John Lee House, clown; Harry ???, clown; Eugene Lobrer, clown; Harmond Bros., acrobats; . . . Harry Hill, cook; Ed. Williams, boss canvasman; Jim Le Roy, pony boy; . . . Al. thompson, advance agent; Tom Thompson, advance agent; Charlie Bishop, watchman. New York Clipper, July 24, 1909, p. 605.
1910: Notes from the Starrett's Shows. This circus is the first in history to go overland in automobiles. It is an automobile circus this season. The autos are used for transportation. Four trucks, one to each machine. The advance also has a small auto. The show has only four draught horses, and they are only used in case of trouble. So far they have had an early season, and are getting far. The parade is made with ponies, and little cages add to its attractiveness. The show now has thirty-two ponies, three being foaled last week. Every one who started out with the show is still with it, even the canvasmen. This speaks well for the management and the cook tent. Edward and Bert Williams are in charge of the ring stock, this being their fourth season with the show. New York Clipper, July 23, 1910, p. 582.
1911: Starrett's Show. Howard S. Starrett, proprietor and manager; H. S. Starrett Jr., treasurer; Carl Todenworth, general agent; J. C. Clark, local contractor; Tom Watts, contracting press agent; Chas. Dunn, equestrian director; Mrs. H. S. Starrett, supt. privileges; Prof. Diosato, musical director; W. Wagner, supt. reserved seat tickets; Ed Williams, supt. canvas; Bert Fuller, boss hostler; Chas. Wayne, supt. commissary dept.; Ned Woods, supt. lights; Joe Simpson, supt. properties; Chris Brown, supt. stock; Jack Strong, supt. working crew; Jno. Armstrong, twenty-four hour agent; J. Sheriden, blacksmith. Show opens at Brooklyn, New York, May 1. Billboard, April 29, 1911, p. 60.
1912:
Starrett's Shows. This show opened its season in Brookly, N. Y., May 13, where it will play four weeks, and take to the road. The show will not be enlarged, but remain the same as last season. Mr. Starrett has all new canvas from "marque" to horse tent. Eight small Shetlands have been added to the show, and a number of dogs. Mr. Starrett will work all horse, pony and dog acts himself, as usual. The show will take "Trinket," claimed to be the smallest horse in the world, as its mascot. "Trinket" was born with the show two years agos, and is twenty-three inches in height. the little fellow will sit on the seat of Mr. Starrett's carriage beside him during parade. Mrs. Starrett will drive a four-in-hand, all ponies, exactly thirty-two inches high. New York Clipper, May 18, 1912, p. 16.
The Starrett Shows are in the heart of Brooklyn, and business is good. On June 2 a baby pony was born. There was a rumor during the Flatbush engagement that the big top was on fire. But this did not happen in reality. The rumor was caused when a moving picture was been taken with Mr. Starrett's permission. After the horses, poinie, acrobats and clowns had finished their merry antics, the elephants brought the climax by being "heroes" while the supposed fire raged in the tent. The fire was, of course, arranged to make the pictures, and the evening performance went on as usual. After our Brooklyn stands the show will take to the cars for the road. New York Clipper, June 15, 1912, p. 11.
1916: Starrett's Circus. Howard S. Starrett, proprietor, manager & equestrian director; Jules Behre, asst. manager; Mrs. H. Starrett, treasurer; Harry Richards, general agent; Ben Johnson, local contractor; Wm. Behre [Bebre?], musical director; Bert Wilson, supt. canvas; Ed Williams, boss hostler; John Webb, supt. lights; Chas. DeGraw, supt. props; Geo. Harrison, supt. ring stock; Fred McGowan, supt. stock. Show opens at Nyack, New York, May 1. Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 115.
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Stebbing Royal European Circus - 1974 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1974-1980
• Owner, William Stebbing, a native of England, and had six members of his family performing in 1974. Russ Taylor, producing clown, public relations; William Stebbing, ringmaster; Carol Stebbing, single web; Barry Sloan, stilts; Bruchi, unicycle; Ashton Cortez, trapeze; the Karls, poodles; Brushis, perch; John and Anita Stebbing, chimps. Show had a red and white 85 round top with a 40 ft. middle, with a 38 ft. center ring, capacity 2,000 people. An organ and drums furnished the music. Show's headquarters were in Sarasota, Florida. Southern Sawdust, November, 1974, p. 19.
• In 1981 the owners failed to make payments on loans and were defaulted. On July 28 an auction was held to sell off the remaining equipment of the show. Bandwagon, January-February, 1982, p. 11.
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Steele's Family Shows - 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909
Steele's Family Shows: Steele Family Shows, proprietors; Burt Steele, manager; G. V. Steele, general agent. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 81.
• Burt Steele, magician, died at his home, 152 Pine street, Detroit, Michigan, May 7, of pneumonia. He had toured Michigan for twelve years with his family, under the title of the Steele Family Show. Billboard, May 27, 1916, p. 20.
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Ezra Stephens' shows - 1878, 1880-81, 1888-89
1878: A lady high-wire ascensionist, musicians to play on brass and perform in specialties, and a party to put in a certain capital are wanted for Stephens' Australian Combination, which is to start out in May. The privileges are advertised for sale. E. Stephens, Bryant's Pond, Me. New York Clipper, April 13, 1878, pp. 23, 24.
1881: Wanted, a partner in circus biz. E. Stephens, Bryant's Pond, Me. New York Clipper, February 19, 1881, p. 384.
1880: For sale or to rent, a lot of circus property - bandwagon, ticket, plank-pole, and several other carriages; 2 pones; gray performing pony; one tent, one dressing, one cook and one stable tent; also seats, jacks, etc. The above is suitable for a sideshow or for a small party or combination. Address E. Stephens, Bryant's Pond, Maine. New York Clipper, January 31, 1880, p. 360.
1882: Ezra Stephens, who was in this city [New York] Nov. 6, has sold his buffaloes to P. T. Barnum. He is to winter his stock at Bryant's Pond, Me., and will run a dime museum this Winter through Massachusetts and New Hampshire. New York Clipper, November 11, 1882, p. 551.
1888:
Partner wanted for the Great Diamond Circus. For sale, two light band, one ticket and three baggage wagons. One round top tent and seats; one nine-tune hand organ, two lifting and one striking machines, one lung tester, and a lot of museum stuff. Paintings, etc.; one spotted Arabian colt. E. Stephens, Bryant's Pond, Maine. New York Clipper, May 5, 1888, p. 131.
The Great Diamond Circus and Australian Museum will take the road in June, considerably enlarged. New York Clipper, May 5, 1888, p. 123.
Partner wanted for the Great Diamond Circus. For sale, two light band, one ticket and three baggage wagons; one tent and seats; one hand organ, two lifting and one striking machines, one lung tester, and a lot of museum stuff, paiting, etc. One spotted Arabian colt. E. Stephens, Bryant's Pond, Me. New York Clipper, May 5, 1888, p. 131.
1889:
For sale, 50ft. round top tent with seats, two light band chariots, one ticket wagon, one nine tune organ, sea serpent and painting, and other sideshow property. Wanted, a partner in circus. Ezra Stephens, Bryant's Pond, Me. New York Clipper, May 11, 1889, p. 151.
• 1895: For sale, cheap. Band, ticket and baggage wagons, tame bears, parrots, sideshow stuff, lung tester, punching and lifting machine. E. Stephens, Bryant Pond, Maine. New York Clipper, June 15, 1895, p. 239.
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Sterling Family Circus - 1984-86
1984: The entire performance was given by the owners, the Tom Wilds family from Mosier, Oregon. This show also used the title Showtime Northwest in 1984. Bandwagon, January-February, 1985, p. 15.
1985: This one-ring show was a grandstand attraction at various Oregon events, including the state fair. Bandwagon, January-February, 1986, p. 13.
1986: The show had indoor dates in Oregon in March and fairs in September. The Wilds family did most of the performance. Tom Wilds had a liberty pony act and clowned with his son, wife Jan had a llama and goat act, and daughter Anne had a unicycle act. Bandwagon, January-February, 1987, p. 12.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1986-, Tom and Jan Wilds, owners.
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Sterling & Reid - 1998
In 1998 the show started out in March in Texas and closed in California in October. They exhibited in the West, the Mountain States and the Midwest. Owners were Ian and Dick Garden. Bandwagon, March-April, 1999, p. 12.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1999-, Richard Garden, owner.
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Sterling & Wallace - 1959 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1959-1964
• Article on the Sterling & Wallace 1959 show, including route, is online in Bandwagon, Sep-Nov 1961 (scroll down or use find).
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W. O'Dale Stevens' Australian - 1882-83
1882:
Owing to the success of W. O'Dale Stevens' Great Australian Circus in Newark, N.J., Fred Waldman has re-engaged it. The attractions are Charles W. Fish . . . Romeo Sebastian, Little Todd, Miss Ellena Jeal, W. O'Dale Stevens, the Four Boissets, Johnny Patterson, Irish clown; Wm. Gorman, Miss Pauline Lee. The ring is forty feet in circumstance, and all the scenery for the arena is new. New York Clipper, February 18, 1882, p. 791.
W. O'Dale's Great Australian Circus is to perform in variety theatre, opening at the Howard Atheneum, Boston, Mass., Feb. 27. The troupe includes Linda Jeal, Charles W. Fish, Eleana Jeal, Wm. H. Morgan, Lotta Aymar, Wm. H. Batcheller, Charles Seeley, John Patterson, the Boisset Brothers, Prof. White and dogs, Bart Johnson, Mendoza, Dan O'Brien, Chas. White's trained Texas cattle, Frank Ashton and W. O'Dale Stevens. New York Clipper, February 25, 1882, p. 806.
Steven's Australian Circus plays at the Howard, Boston, this week, giving performances in a forty-foot ring constructed on the stage. The people in this circus include Charles Fish, Miss Linda Jeal, William Batcheller, leaper; William Morgan, hurdle rider; miss Elinore Jeal, bareback rider; the Boissett Family of gymnasts; Onzala, William O. Dale Stevens, equilibrist; the seven Franco pyramidal leapers, seven American leapers, four clowns - Johnny Patterson, Charles Seeley, the "great little Rowella" and Arzuma - Miss Lillie Western, Kelly and O'Brien, Prof. White and his trained steers and performing dogs, and others, under the direction of William Gorman. New York Clipper, March 4, 1882, p. 824.
Stevens & Cooke's English-Australian Circus, Royal Pantomime Troupe and Congress of Novelties is the title of the show recently at the Howard Atheneum, Boston, Mass. It is adapted for presentation on a theatre stage. The horses' hoofs are made elastic by means of padded rubber shoes, and the ring is laid with heavy matting. The features include a regular circus performance, and equestrian pantomime, specialty performers, trained animals, aerial feats, etc. The director of amusements is W. O. Dale Stevens, and Louis E. Cooke is the business manager. New York Clipper, March 25, 1882, p. 13.
The Winter season of W. O. Dale Stevens' Australian Circus will commence Nov. 6 at the Grand Opera house, Newark, N.J. New York Clipper, November 4, 1882, p. 535.
W. O. Dale Stevens' Australian Show company includes Robert Stickney, Emma Lake, Linda and Elena Jeal, Onzalo, Tom Barry, Mlle. Paladina, James Keene and Tom Samuells, with his trained dogs, monkey and goats. The performance concludes with the equestrian drama of "Dick Turpin's Ride to York." New York Clipper, November 25, 1882, p. 582.
1883:
Wm. Gaylord and Millie Turnour were among the new features at O. Dale Stevens' Australian Circus, Broadway and Thirty-fifth street, the past week. Billed for Feb. 26, Zazel, the Shedman Brothers, James Cook, and Levanion and McCormick. New York Clipper, February 24, 1883, p. 794.
The Ashton Brothers, acrobats, closed an engagement of six weeks with W. O. Dale Stevens' Australian Circus, April 21, to join Nathans & Co.'s Consolidated Shows for the season. New York Clipper, April 21, 1883, p. 70.
W. O. Dale Steven's Australian Circus opens in Boston May 10 with Chas. W. Fish, Linda and Elena Jeal, Rosina Dubsky, Zazel, James Murray, Burt Johnson, Franklin Bros., A. Leon, Prof. Parker and wife, Miss North, Geo. Parish, C. Ellis, the Le Clare Brothers and the clowns Tom Barry and Joe Kennebel. New York Clipper, May 5, 1883, p. 102.
W. O. Dale Stevens' Australian Circus opened in Boston, Mass., May 10. The people comprise Linda and Elena Jeal, Rosina Dubsky, Adelian Pielemero, Carlotta North, Charles W. Fish, Burt Johnson, James Murray, Harry Grotchier, Herbert Parish, Zazel, the Leproils . . . the Barry Brothers and others. The tents will remain up some time, and suburban excursions are being planned. New York Clipper, May 19, 1883, p. 136.
W. O. Dale Stevens' Australian Circus, now showing in Boston, will soon close, preparatory to opening in Montreal, Canada. In Montreal the circus will be enlarged, and will have the attractions of hippodrome races and other sports. The pavilions now being used being too small, will be sold. M. Laiscelle, the Shrode Brothers and Mr. Earle are among the performers with the circus this week. Joe Kennebel has recovered, and is in the ring again. New York Clipper, June 30, 1883, p. 243.
[Advertisement] W. O'Dale Stevens' Great Australian Circus & Great Philadelphia Circus, Park Square, Boston. Australian Company - Chas. W. Fish, the "Champion;" Elena Jeal, arenic Empress; Joe Kennebel, he jokes and Boston smiles; 3 Shrode Brothers, Europe's acrobats; Ben Chilly, God of Merriment; W. O'Dale Stevens, equilibrist; Awata Katsnoshin, king of the empire of mystery; Miss Zazel, Goddess of high air; Jean Twin Sisters, four-horse carrying and posturing act; Vic Laiscelle, monarch of gymnasts. Philadelphia Company - Wm. Dutton, bareback equestrian; Miss Linda Jeal, Queen of the flaming zone; Jas. Murray, Kweer, Komical, Kwaint; Burt Johnson, two-horse rider; Rosina Dubsky, equestrienne; the Franklins, towering perch; Wm. Morgan, hurdle rider; Neoskeleeta, sprite of the corde elastic; W. B. Aymar, descriptive rider; Anton Lerch, jester; Se Wa No, Indian horseman. . . . Boston Daily Globe (Boston, MA), July 1, 1883, p. 1.
Wm. O. Dale Stevens' Australian Circus closes its season of twelve weeks in Boston, Mass., Aug. 4, and takes the road, opening at the Indian Wigwam, Brooklyn, N.Y., 6, for a short season. New York Clipper, July 28, 1883, p. 307.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, W. O. Dale, 1882-83.
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Stevens & Begun's - 1874
Stevens & Begun's Great Roman Hippodrome. Proprietors, F. Stevnes and R.(?) L. Begun; manager, ___; assistant manager, Frank Stevens; general agent, _. Chandler; press agent, J. M. Chandler; programme agent, Frank Ward; chief billposter, L. Coleman. Clowns, _. McFlyn and P. H. Seamon. Riders, Mlle. Watson, Mlle Reynolds, Carrie Reynolds, Fred Watson, John Barry and Willie Watson. Gymnasts, Mlle. Loretta and C. C. Mathews. Acrobats, leapers and tumblers, _. Sturges, E. Davis, Prof. Reynolds, Willie Watson . . . A riding goat, equestrian dogs and Brazilian ponies. Trick horse Prince; two performing ponies, two trick mules, Pete and Tom. Performers in concert, Johnny Redden and son, John Donaldson and the Reynolds family. Proprietors of sideshow, Hoyt & Zebold. Prof. Reynolds, supt. of menagerie, 10 red cages, a rhinoceros and an elephant. Winter quarters, Independence, A.. First exhibit, Shreveport, La., April 4. Route will include Texas, Arkansas, Missouri and Iowa. [much unreadable text] New York Clipper, April 18, 1874, Supplement, n.p.n. CHECK, P. A. Older?
Stevens & Begun's Circus exhibited at Marshall, Texas, April 13 and is billed at Dallas 25. New York Clipper, April 25, 1874, p. 31.
Stephens & Begun's Circus and Menagerie shows at McCabe, Texas, May 30, Bastrop, June 1, and will be at San Antonio one week, commencing June 8, thence to Corpus Christi, Brownsville, and into Mexico. Julian Kent left the show recently, and P. H. Seamon does all the clowning. E. and L. Gaylord & Begun have purchased the sideshow from Haight & Zebold. New York Clipper, June 13, 1874, p. 87.
Mr. Freyer, director of Stevens & Begun's Circus, was severely injured by a horse falling on him during the first week in July. He has entirely lost the use of his limbs. Mr. Hallack, assistant manager, on July 7, was lying at a hotel in Kimball, Texas, under treatment for injuries received by being thrown out of his buggy. New York Clipper, July 25, 1874, p. 134.
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Stevens Bros. - 1933, 1945-48 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1932-33, 1946-1952
1946: Stevens Bros. Circus opened in Antlers, Oklahoma, April 27, 1946. The big top was a 60 with three 30s, sideshow a fifty with two 30s, pit show 20x30, horse top 40x70, cookhouse 20x40. Staff: Robert and Ione Stevens, owners; Robert Stevens, manager; Ione Stevens, secretary-treasurer; Raymond Duke, general agent; E. K. Duke, press; Dick Plante, car manager with two billers; Frank Burns, general superintendent; Shorty Gileson, assistant; Lonnie Fuller, equestrian director; Harry Villeponteauz, producing clown. Doc Stevens has the midway lunch stand. Nola Grady, steward; Bob Grubb has the concert; Johnny Latoski, supt. ring stock; Don Nading, mechanic and electrician; J. Roland, sideshow canvas. Mel Lewis was bannerman. Clown alley, headed by Harry Villeponteauz and Chuck Fuller, assistant, included Ardell Young and Joy Roalnd. The wild west concert was headed by Bob Grubb, with assistants Colorado Shorty, Johnny Latoski. Joy Roland and two others did trick riding, roping, whip-cracking and clown mule. Sideshow had Mr. Tabor, magic, Punch, vent.; specialty acts by Ester Pepaten and Honor Stevens, and all animals were in the sideshow.
1947: Bob Stevens' circus in 1947 had Gatchell's dogs, Juan DeAvilla on Roman rings, tables, Morey's balancing act, Prince, educated horse, and Oklahom Shorty in whip-cracking, roping, etc. in the concert. The kid show had one act, a camel and three cages of animals. Raymond Duke, former clown, was general agent. White Tops, July-August, 1947, Vol. 20, Nos. 7-8, p. 10.
1948: Stevens Bros. opened in Boswell, Oklahoma, April 9, 1948. The show moved on 9 units with 2 on advance. Staff: Tom McLaughlin, general agent; Bob Stevens, tickets; Mrs. Laura Stevens, front door; Harry Rooks, equestrian director; Bob Grubb, supt. stock; Ray Headley, electrician; Bill Gould, boss canvasman; Don Hayden, producing clown; Gene Stone (Stoney), sideshow manager; Willie Rawl, reserved seats; Eddie Shearer, concessions; Les Garner, supt. bill car; Claude Garner, banners. Performers: Ruth Johnson, swinging ladder; Bob Grubb, dogs and monkey acts, pony drill, liberty horses, and Prince the wonder horse; Don Hayden, trained goat; Harry Rooks, head balance trapeze; Rex Rossi, trick rider & roper; Kenny Grubb, educated mule; Ruth Johnson & Harry Rooks, pole perch. White Tops, March-April, 1948, Vol. 21, Nos. 3-4, p. 19.
• Information on the Stevens Bros. show is online in "High Grass and Miller Magic," in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1969 (scroll down or use find).
• Mr. & Mrs. Robert Stevens' residence was in Hugo, Oklahoma. They had 35 acres and two modern houses on the property. Robert and Ione previously had the concessions on the Al G. Kelly-Miller Bros. Circus for five years. White Tops, November-December, 1946, Vol. 19, Nos. 11-12, p. 8.
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Stevens & Smith - 1898
The Weavers have signed for Stevens & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, February 12, 1898, p. 827.
The Blakeslees, contortionists, have signed with the Stevens & Smith Circus. New York Clipper, February 19, 1898, p. 848.
Notes from Stevens & Smith's Two Ring Circus and Congress of Trained Animals. E. P. Stevens and George J. Smith, sole proprietors. Roster: Wm. Lowande, principal somersault rider and four horse act; Nellie Lowande, principal bareback and high school menage acts and aerial novelties; Wm. Siegrist, principal clown and equestrian director . . . Tony Ashton, singing clown and his troupe of dogs; the Blakeslees, contortionists; Stanley Hall, high wire and traps; Master Arthur Stevens, trained goat and clown; Wm. Mayo and his trained horses; Burt Mayo, bareback and jockey hurdle rider; Master George Stevens, clown. . . . J. J. Anderson, boss canvasman. We will carry six freaks in sideshow. We carry a band of fourteen members, under Prof. J. A. Fogarty, forty head of stock, and travel overland. New York Clipper, April 16, 1898, p. 111.
Tony Ashton has signed with the Stevens & Smith Big Two Ring Circus to do his dog act, talking and singing clown and a turn in the concert. The show will travel by wagon. New York Clipper, May 7, 1898, p. 160.
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W. H. Stewart's Australian - 1883
The Fostelle Bros., clowns, are to travel with Stewart's Australian Circus this season. New York Clipper, March 31, 1883, p. 22.
W. H Stewart & Co.'s Great Australian Combination and American Aggregation is to open at Fort Wayne, Ind., May 10. The following have been engaged: the Quinnett Family (four), acrobats and gymnasts; Andy Amann, Dutch clown; the Fostell Brothers, clowns; Andy Hines, contortionist, the Casad children, trapeze artists; Edward Arnold, leaper; C. N. Watt, negro clown; Charles Adams, master of canvas; Robert Hamilton, master of horses; and E. B. Bennett and Edward Smead, agents. W. H. Stewart and Wm. Earl are the proprietors, W. H. Stewart, manager, and Wm. Earl, treasurer. Charles O. Smith of Chicago has the candy privilege, and the music is furnished by the Casad Family's Silver Cornet band and orchestra. New York Clipper, April 1, 1883, p. 38.
W. H. Stewart & Co.'s Great Australian Combination and American Aggregation. Call. People engaged for the show will report at Fort Wayne, Ind., in time for rehearsal and to open May 10. The sideshow privilege is for sale. A tight rope walker is wanted. W. H. Stewart and Wm. Early, proprietors; W. H. Stewart, manager. New York Clipper, April 1, 1883, p. 44.
W. H. Stewart & Co.'s Australian Combination has quit traveling by wagons, and now tours by railroad. Ed. Nagle, tight rope performer, joined recently. New York Clipper, July 14, 1883, p. 275.
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Capt. Stewart's - 1893, 1895, 1898, 1901-02, 1904 (various titles)
1891: Capt. W. H. Stewart is hard at work on his circus outfit for next season. His Gorilla Car. No. 1 is touring Pennsylvania; car No. 2 is touring Ohio, car No. 3 is touring Michigan, and next week car No. 4, with one hundred prairie dogs, starts out. His Palace of Illusions will take the road when the Fair season commences. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
1893:
Capt. W. H. Stewart has closed both of his enterprises. He reports a prosperous season and, after additions to his stock have been made, he will being a new season a few weeks hence. Capt. stewart will organize a circus during this winter for next season, which will be small, but equipped with everything new. He will use three railroad cars, one 70ft. hotel car, one flat and a stock car, and carry sixty people. He will run all privileges himself. The show will start from Fort Wayne, Ind., about May 1, and travel through Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York and Vermont. New York Clipper, November 4, 1893, p. 560.
1894:
Notes from Sun Bros.' Shows. We have secured Capt. Stewart's Museum and Sideshow for next season. . . . New York Clipper, February 10, 1894, p. 787.
1895:
1895: Notes from Captain Stewart's Railroad Circus. We are moving along, making ends meet. Capt. Stewart has just returned from his home at Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he went to see his first born grandson. Frank Beach is still with us . . . New York Clipper, March 16, 1895, p. 21.
1898:
Notes from Cap. Stewart's Unprecedented New Double Consolidated 10 and 20 Cents Show. We opened at New Haven, Indiana, June 20, for three days. At Spencerville and Maysville we gave two shows one night. Cap Stewart is proprietor and manager; Mrs. Cap Stewart, treasurer; Howard Stewart, general agent; Wallace Driver, local manager; Prof. May, leader of band and orchestra; Prof. Wallace, stage and ring master; Mrs. Prof. Wallace, reserved seats . . . Frank Lodin, master of canvas; Weaver Bros., brother act, trap and ladders; the Ferns, John and Annie, bars, wire and rings; Prof. Wallace, fire and swords; Emma Driver, female Sampson; W. Driver, magic; the Armans, Walter and Alice, sketches and comedians; Cap Stewart, clown and jester; Willie Bros., three in number, ladders, perch, tumblers and leaps; a troupe of twelve dogs and five goats. W. H. Stewart, cannon balls and light and heavy balancing and negro comedian. Our tent is a 50, with two 25ft. middle pieces, 25ft. dressing room, 20x40ft. horse tent, 14x30 cook tent, 40x60 museum tent, four baggage wagons, one performer's wagon, band wagon and two two-seated carriages, one team, and two men ahead of show. We will work Indiana until after harvest, then cross over into Ohio. New York Clipper, July 2, 1898, p. 291.
1901:
Notes from Capt. Stewart Show. Ft. Wayne, Ind., Dec. 12. I post a few lines from this, the Barnum of all the small shows. Immediately after the holidays we will commence work to get ready for the season of 1902. Our tents will all be brand new and all made by the Noble tent makers, of Detroit, Mich. Our big
top will 60 feet, with two 30 foot middle pieces, cook tent 30 by 40 feet, horse tent 90 by 60 feet, side show tent 30 by 60 feet. We will have all new wagons and all new horses, 16 in number. The wagons will all be painted white and lettered in gold, red and blue; the seats, poles, etc., will be flat white; the reserved seats will be painted red and will be cushioned and have foot and back rests. One new feature for 1902 will be two ponies, two donkeys, two St. Bernard dogs, two goats, all working in the in the ring at the same time. Another feature will be a grand free balloon ascension daily. We will carry a small band of six mouthpieces. We will carry about twenty people all told. - Capt. Stewart. Billboard, December 21, 1901, p. 9.
1902:
Capt. Billy Stewart has just signed a contract with the celebrated Risley family band, of Sheldon, Ill., to go with his circus this season. The captain will have two tent shows on the road this year. Fort Wayne Sentinel (Fort Wayne, IN), February 1, 1902, n.p.n.
Capt. Billy Stewart writes The Sentinel to announce that he will open his season on the road with the celebrated Stewart family circus on April 28th; that he will have thirty-five people in his company this year, including a superb band of twelve pieces. Fort Wayne Evening Sentinel (Fort Wayne, IN), February 10, 1902, n.p.n.
1904:
Captain Billy Stewart returned to Fort Wayne, Ind., July 7, with the remnants of his circus, which met with a severe cyclone in Michigan last week. The cyclone put the hsow out of business temporarily, but he expects to be in good running order shortly. The captain says business was better this season than never. Billboard, July 30, 1904, p. 19.
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St. Leon Bros. - 1931
Show was organized by and featured the Wirth Family of riders from Australia. An article on the St. Leon Bros. European Circus is online in Bandwagon, Mar-Apr 1971 (scroll down or use find).
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Robert Stickney's Imperial Parisian - 1880
Murray & Stickney's Circus drew moderately will during its second and last week in the Siege of Paris Building, Boston, Mass., ending their season Jan. 24. To the company of the previous week Charles W. Fish was added, and with Robert Stickney engaged in competitive riding. New York Clipper, January 31, 1880, p. 355.
New features at the Imperial Parisian Circus the past week included Miss Ellen Cooke in a principal equestrian act, Crossley and Elder in Caledonian game, and the afterpiece entitle "The Brigand," the principal characters being Frank Melville and William Burke. M. Ajax, Avery and Forepaugh, Satsuma and Robert Stickney (his reappearance) are the fresh people at the Imperial Parisian Circus, Jan. 26. New York Clipper, January 31, 1880, p. 358.
Stickney's Imperial Parisian Circus, Equirotator, Museum and Menagerie for season of 1880, is to travel by wagons. Robert Stickney, sole proprietor. Artists in all branches of the profession, address Robert Stickney, Aquarium, Thirty-fifth street and Broadway, New York. Parties having animals, horses and general circus paraphernalia, communicate at once. N.B. Outside candy stand and sideshow privilege to let. New York Clipper, February 7, 1880, p. 367.
At the Imperial Parisian Circus fair business has been done since our last report. The changes in the program included a blind-man's-buff entry, Emma Stickney in a menage act and William Burke in a caricature thereof, supplying the places of Avery and Forepaugh. Frank Melville and John W. Hamilton have withdrawn from the management of the Imperial Parisian Circus. New York Clipper, February 14, 1880, p. 374.
Stickney's Imperial Parisian Circus is now organizing. New York Clipper, February 21, 1880, p. 379.
Central Theatre, Baltimore, Md. The theatre is closed the week of 23, to make preparations for Robert Stickney's Imperial Parisian Circus, which opens March 1. New York Clipper, February 28, 1880, p. 387.
Stickney's Imperial Circus and Trained Animals open in Pittsburg, Pa., April 26. The management handling all privileges with the show. Performers and others engaged will report in Pittsburg, April 22. Robert Stickney, sole proprietor; S. E. Stickney, manager; Col. A. B. Rosston, advance director; S. M. Davidson, contracting agent; F. G. Fields, press and general agent; S. B. Stickney, master of bill brigade. New York Clipper, March 20, 1880, p. 415.
Performers and others engaged for Robert Stickney's Imperial Circus, Museum and Menagerie are requested to report at Pittsburg, Pa., April 22. New York Clipper, April 17, 1880, p. 27.
F. G. Field, general agent for Robert Stickney's Circus and Menagerie, is in town making arrangements for that combination to appear here on May 7th. Mr. Field informed me that the show would appear at Franklin, May 6th, Oil City, 7th; Titusville 8th, and Corry, 9th. Titusville Morning Hearld (Titusville, PA), April 24, 1880, n.p.n.
The Imperial Circus. This organization will give its performances in this city on May 8th. In addition to the circus department there is a menagerie division and a museum. In the former may be seen animals from every portion of the globe. The museum contains one of the most complete collections of curiosities extant. Mr. Robert Stickney, known for his famous bareback acts, has spared no expense to make his circus perfect in every department. Daily 10 o'clock parade will be given. Performance at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Doors open one hour earlier. Admission, 50 cents. Children under 10 years 25 cents. Titusville Morning Herald (Titusville, PA), April 29, 1880, n.p.n.
Stickney's Imperial Circus, Museum and Menagerie opened its season in Pittsburg, Pa., April 26, 27. Programme: Overture by Prof. Perry's Imperial Band; grand entree by the company; balancing perch by Satsuma; principal and scarf act, Ida Stickney; Roman ladders by Clifton and the Goss Brothers; Indian bar act by John Saunders; slack wire by Ida Showers; principal somersault act by John Barry; trick horse, introduced by S. B. Stickney; single trapeze by Mr. Fredericks; leaping by the company; horsemanship by Lizzie Keys; performing dogs and monkeys, introduced by Prof. Showers; horsemanship, Robert Stickney; Satsuma with his enchanted table and cross; manege act by Emma Stickney; feats of strength, Prof. Long; triple horizontal bar by Miss Fredericks; Goss and Clifton; four horse act, Robert Stickney; and the performance concluding with "Jack the Giant Killer." Everything did not work as smoothly as desireable; but, taking into consideration that these were first exhibitions, the ring show was creditable. The street parade was not a very imposing affair. New York Clipper, May 8, 1880, p. 51.
Stickney's circus car collided with a bridge top en route to this place Saturday morning. Robert Stickney's Imperial Circus and Menagerie pitched their tents here on Saturday last, giving entertainments afternoon and evening, neither of which, for some cause unexplained, did not receive that generous patronage which the show going public of Titusville are famous. The Stickneys are really immense, Sam, who is one of the best clowns, presentd a choice lot of fresh witticisms. Robert, the champion equestrian, gave a fine exhibit of equestrian bareback riding in full dress, including hat and boots and a stiff piccadilly collar. Titusville Morning Herald (Titusville, PA), May 10, 1880, n.p.n.
A real, live circus will pitch its tent in Lima on Friday, June 4, under the direction of the equestrian and leapaer, Robert Stickney. From the N. Y. Times: Robert Stickney's Imperial Circus began its fourth week at Aquarium. The success of the circus has compelled to management to increase the seating capacity by placing about 300 additional seats upon the gallery erected over the old stage. The features include the equestrianism of Robert Stickney, Mr. Vanvant, John Barry, Miss Emma Stickney, the Japanese gymnast, contortion feats by young Adjax, and a trapeze act by M'lle Belmont. The Linten Brothers, Prof. Showers' troupe of trained dogs and monkeys. The performance concluded with the extravaganza, "Jack the Giant Killer." Allen County Democrat (Lima, OH), May 27, 1880, n.p.n.
[Seymour, IN] Robert Stickney's circus lacked nearly $100 of paying expenses here on Thursday. Three young men here left good situations to accompany it as canvasmen. They went as far as Aurora, where the show woodbined and the young canvasmen returned with fleas in their ears. Brownstown Banner (Brownstown, IN), July 8, 1880, n.p.n.
As Robert Stickney's Circus train was leaving Chillicothe, O., at three o'clock a.m., July 17, it collided with a cattle train and a sleeping coach, and nearly one-half of the cars carrying cages were thrown from the track. Several performers were slightly injured, and many cages, wagons, etc., were demolished. The show reached Jackson in time to give a late performance. New York Clipper, July 31, 1880, p. 151.
An old Washington correspondent of the Clipper visited Stickney's Imperial Circus in Charlestown, W.Va., Aug. 9, and writes that "The four-horse bareback act of Robert Stickney was the feature of the entertainment. Samuel Stickney as the principal clown gae fun, while the antics of Andy Showers' educated monkey and trained dogs, together with the wire performance of Ida Showers, excited admiration. The riding of Ida Stickney and John Barry, the feats of Satsuma, the Japanese, and the contortion act of the colored boy Marco received praise." New York Clipper, August 21, 1880, p. 171.
Robert Stickney's Imperial Circus gave performances in Neosha, Mo., Oct. 27. Route, through Kansas and Indian Territory. New York Clipper, November 6, 1880, p. 259.
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S. P. Stickney's - 1861-62, 1868-69, 1874, 1876-77
• 1861: information is online at Clipper, November 16, Clipper, November 23, Clipper, December 21 (scroll down)
• Information on Stickney's show, during the Civil War, is in Slout's Clowns and Cannons.
• 1862: online at Clipper, January 25, Clipper, March 15, Clipper, July 19 (scroll down)
1868:
[Advertisement] Great Paris Exposition Circus. Will exhibit at Portland, on Monday & Tuesday evenings, August 17th and 18th, 1868. Mlle. Marie, sensational rider. Mlle. Ralton, graceful equestrienne. Mlle Hannah, operatic danseuse on horseback. Miss Jennie, two-horse rider. Miss Ellen, bareback rider. La Petite Rosa, baby rider. Mr. John Sacnoers, premium leaper, double somersault thrower, and principal rider. W. A. Donovan, daring four horse rider, gymnast and acrobat. Donovan Brothers, gymnastic exercises. Ed Montague, Wm. Spurgeon.
1869:
[Advertisement] Stickney's Circus, from New York, is coming. Lot corner Spring and Perry Sts. Monday, May 10. A railroad circus. No jaded and worn-out horses. Opposition invited. Competition defied. Organized for the year 1869 in keeping with the spirit of the times and age of progression. Depising the new fang'ed humbuggery of the age, the manager does not announce a combination of six or four circuses in one, or impose upon the public any hybrid "circus and menagerie," which are invariably found to contain a weak apology of either; nor does he deem it expedient to resort to a dazzling street parade, he simply produces an exhibit fully developed circus performance, to any presented by the nondescript traveling exhibitions now in vogue. In which he is able to announce the following celebrities.
1874:
S. P. Stickney & Son's World's Circus, now organizing, will open at Montreal, Canada, about May 18. Artists are advertised for, and privileges are for sale. New York Clipper, May 9, 1874, p. 47.
S. P. Stickney & Son's World's Circus, advertised as a Canadian Combination, show at Montreal, May 21, 22, 23. New York Clipper, May 23, 1874, p. 63.
Stickney & Son's World's Circus. S. P. Stickney Sr., director; A. Cambridge, business manager; J. J. Showles, contracting agent; . . . P. Murphy, chief billposter. Mlle. Minnie Seaman, female rider, Mlle. Elise De La Rue, gymnast; Little Alice, child wonder; Mlle Marri, corde elastique; Messrs. Charles Seals, principal rider; Charles Sanford, hurdle rider; Sam Stickney, clown; Herr Morgan, double somersault; Edward Mills, man monkey; Prof. Samwells, juggler; . . . the Gorman Brothers, character delineators; Hadley, Gibson, Ulmer, Nixon, Gerry, Clarke, Williams, O'Neal, Horn, and auxiliaries. It was billed to open at Montreal, Canada, May 21, but had to postpone to the 22d, on account of continuous heavy rain. . . . New York Clipper, May 30, 1874, p. 71.
I hereby withdraw from this date and will not be responsible for any debts contracted by S. P. Stickey & Son's circus. Robert T. Stickney. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, June 20, 1874, p. 95.
The tents, horses, ponies, harness, wagons, and all the appurtenances of Taylor's Circus, formerly Sam Stickney's, are to be sold at sheriff's sale at Toronto, Ont., Nov. 12, to satisfy twelve executions. New York Clipper, November 14, 1874, p. 263.
1876:
Stickney's Calisthenic Exhibition is the title of a new circus just organized in Cincinnati by Sam Stickney. It exhibited in that city may 27, 2_, 30, devoting the rest of the week to fitting up for the road. It is designed to take in smaller towns. New York Clipper, June 10, 1876, p. 87.
Stickney & Co.'s New York Circus will open at the Academy of Music, Chicago, Ill., Dec. _. Artists, male and female, of talent in equestrian art for two or four weeks, address Sam Stickney Jr., manager. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, November 25, 1876, p. 275.
Stickney & Co.'s New York Circus appeared before light houses at the Academy, Chicago, Ill., the past week. The party includes Mlles. Cordelia, Ida, and Ella Wise, Mlle. Orton and the child Rosa, John Barry, the Lenton Brothers, and the Lee family, the three clowns - Sam Stickney Jr., Sam McFlynn, and Bob Johnson, and the three Clarks on the trapeze. New York Clipper, December 16, 1876, p. 303.
Stickney & Co.'s New York Circus Company at the Academy, Chicago, Ill., to moderate business. They continue till Jan. 1. New York Clipper, December 23, 1876, p. 311.
1877: Stickney & Co.'s Circus closed their season in Chicago, Ill., Dec. 16. New York Clipper, January 6, 1877, p. 327.
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Stickney's Excelsior - 1878
Samuel Stickney and Charles Whitney are now organizing in Philadelphia a circus which will give its first exhibition in that city about the middle of May, and take the road June 1. It will be known as Stickney & Co.'s Excelsior Circus. New York Clipper, May 4, 1878, p. 47.
Equestrian artists are wanted immediately for Stickney's Excelsior Circus, which is now organizing in Philadelphia. The privileges are also offered for sale. Address Charles Whitney, general director. New York Clipper, May 4, 1878, p. 47.
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Sam E. Stickney's - 1888
Stickney & Co.'s Consolidated Shows will open in Texarkana on or about June 4 for the season. The show travels by wagons, making free balloon ascensions and parachute descent. Sideshow privileges for rent. Room for a few performers. Address Sam E. Stickney, manager, Texarkana, Ark. New York Clipper, May 5, 1888, p. 131.
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S. Q. Stokes' - 1849, 1850, 1862-63, 1873, 1877 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1849-1852, 1862-63, 1872
1849:
The Circus company of Mr. Stokes exhibited itself here last Thursday. As the attendance was slim and a tax of forty dollars, for their exhibition at this place and at Le Claire in this county, was charged, we presume the profits were light. The company was small, the cholera having picked out some of its members.
1850:
St. Louis, 8th. The Steamer Mustang lying at the levee caught fire yesterday morning, and burned to the water's edge. She belonged to Stoke's circus company. Milwaukee Sentinel and Gazette (Milwaukee, WI), May 13, 1850, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] Mammoth Circus. Three companies in one. The South-western, Crescent city, and North & Stickney's Circuses, combined for 1850. Together with a large number of the best European Arena Artists, forming the only perfect company ever organized. S. Q. Stokes, manager; T. F. Chambers, agent. Will exhibit in Alton on Saturday, June 22, 1850, for one day only, when they will present Hippo-dramatic, scenic, descriptive, comic, pantomimic, classic, and dolineative equestrian, gymnastic wonders, corpuscular devices, acrobatic poises, herculean feats, and other novelites of a chaste, dignified, moral and superior character.
• 1862: Mrs. Stokes, the wife of Spence Stokes, the celebrated circus man, has applied for a divorce. Mr. Stokes married her in St. Louis and left her there many years ago while he visited England, where he is now. Burlington Daily Hawk Eye (IA), January 16, 1858, n.p.n.
• 1858: online at Clipper, July 12, Clipper, July 26 (scroll down)
• 1863: online at:
• 1866, see Mike Lipman's (Lipman & Stokes).
1873: A dispatch from St. Louis, dated May 7, says that the steamer Mustang, lying at the levee, caught fire that morning, and before any assistance could be obtained she was burned to the water's edge. She belonged to Stokes' Circus Company, and was not insured. Some of the company lost the greater portion of their effects by the disaster. Sabbath Recorder (New York, NY), May 16, 1850, p. 191.
1873:
George DeHaven is starting a circus from Cincinnati, O. S. Q. Stokes will be connected with it in some way. New York Clipper, February 8, 1873, p. 359.
Great Chicago Show . . . sole proprietor, Spencer Q. Stokes who is also general director of amusements, general manager; Geo. W. DeHaven, business manager and treasurer; R. E. J. Miles, assistant treasurer . . . New York Clipper, April 19, 1873, Supplement, n.p.n.
Prof. A. Allen's Indian Brass Band will be a feature of the Chicago Great Show, which opens at Chicago, Ill., May 8. They will play as a brass band in the street parade, attired in full Indian costume, and will give a performance in the arena. New York Clipper, May 10, 1873, p. 47.
The Great Chicago Show inaugurated their Summer traveling season at Chicago, Ill., May 8, to an immense audience. The performance is excellent, while the street parade is also attractive. Their route ahead for the present will be on the line of the Illinois Central Railroad. New York Clipper, May 17, 1873, p. 55.
The Chicago Show and James Robinson's Circus exhibited at Terre Haute, Ind., June 9. New York Clipper, June 21, 1873, p. 95.
The Chicago Show. We mentioned last week that the circus had been thrown into the hands of a receiver, at the suit of Spencer Q. Stokes, one of the partners, by the Superior Court of Cincinnati, and now we have to record that the ___ has been amicably adjusted. Stokes and P. A. Loring ___ from the show, which was taken in hand by George W. De Haven, R. E. J. Miles and Daniel Carpenters, they assuming all the debts, and giving into the receiver $___ for the performance of their ___. The show lost only two stands . . . New York Clipper, July 5, 1873, p. 111.
The Great Chicago Show and James Robinson's Circus is reported to have done excellent business in Kansas. They are going into Texas, being billed at Houston, Aug. 18, 19. New York Clipper, August 9, 1873, p. 151.
The Great Chicago Show is enroute for Mexico. They performed at Dallas, Texas, Aug. 12. New York Clipper, August 23, 1873, p. 167.
Charley King, clown and comedian, who was taken sick with swamp fever at Dallas, Texas, and who had been lying ill at Shreveport, La., for three weeks, was sufficiently recovered to rejoin the Chicago show at that place last week. The circus left Shreveport by wagons for Monroe, and business is reported fair. New York Clipper, September 13, 1873, p. 191.
The Chicago Show broke up at Meridian, Miss., some time ago, but reorganized and started for Tuscaloosa, Ala., where they were to have exhibited on Oct. 17. New York Clipper, November 1, 1873, p. 247.
The Great Chicago Show, under the management of George De Haven, which collapsed some time ago at Meridian, Miss., started out again traveling by wagons, and after showing about one week, again busted up, leaving the company in a worst situation than before. New York Clipper, November 15, 1873, p. 263.
The Great Chicago Show is among the things of the past. The stock, canvas, wardrobe, etc., were sold at auction at Artesia, Miss. on Nov. 15, and the company have gone to their several homes. James Robinson and family left for Cincinnati, O. Nov. 22, and Painter and Durand for Mobile, Ala. New York Clipper, December 6, 1873, p. 287.
1877:
At the New National Theatre, Philadelphia, the recently opened circus, under the management of S. Q. Stokes, did good business during the week ending Dec. 30, the stellar attractions being Martinho Lowande and Mollie Brown in their equestrian specialties. The spectacle, of "Cinderella" is to be produced January 1. New York Clipper, January 6, 1877, p. 327.
S. Q. Stokes' Circus continued at the New National Theatre, Philadelphia, during the week ending Jan. 6, the equestrianism of Sig. Martinho Lowande and Miss Mollie Brown being the chief features. New York Clipper, January 13, 1877, p. 335.
S. Q. Stoke's World Circus continued at the New National Theatre, Philadelphia, during the week ending Jan. 20, the spectacle of "Cindrella" providing a feature there. On the evening of the 25th inst., the benefit of the Mette Brothers is announced, Rudolphe Mette and Miss Ella Stokes will be married in the presence of the audience. New York Clipper, January 27, 1877, p. 351.
Stokes' World Circus, at the New National Theatre, Philadelphia, had the field to themselves last week. The evening of January 26(?), the benefit of the Mette Brothers, was a public marriage in the arena. Miss Ella Stokes, daughter of veteran circus manager, was the bride, and Rudolph Mette, gymnast, was the bridegroom. Bridesmaids were Misses Katie and Emma Stokes, and groomsmen were Billy Porter and Louis Mette. The current week is the last of this circus here. Billy Porter, clown, has a complimentary benefit on the evening of Feb. 2. New York Clipper, February 3, 1887, p. 359.
S. Q. Stokes' World Circus closed their season at the New National Theatre, Philadelphia, on the 3d inst. The last week was mainly devoted to benefits, the "Cinderella" troupe, Tom King, Billy Porter, the popular clown, and Miss Kate Stokes respectively appealing for the patronage of their friends. New York Clipper, February 10, 1877, p. 367.
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Stone, Rosston & Co. - 1864-68
• 1864: online at:
1865:
• Late in 1865, the show was titled "Great Southern Circus," with Thomas U. Tidmarsh, manger.
[Southern Circus (Tidmarsh)] To the people of the State of Texas. For more than twenty years I have hearlded amusements over the Southern country, equestrian, operatic and dramatic. My intercourse with the citizens of the South has, consequently, been long and intimate; for more than seven years I have visited no other country. My feelings, tastes and inclinations must, therefore, necessarily, be affined to those of the people of the South. All men must have an occupation. Mine is to furnish amusement to the masses of the people, and men should make it a duty to do well whatever they take in hand; it shall be my duty for the future, as I have endeavored to make it in the past, to furnish my Texas friends such entertainments as will not only gratify the sense of the moment, but serve by the ability exhibited in them, as a recollection of interest after the performances have passed by.
• 1865: online at:
1866:
[Advertisement] Stone, Rosston & Murray's Stone & Rosston Combination Circus. Great Southern Circus! Organized expressly for the Southern tour, and in order to give it vast brilliancy and effects, combined with Mr. John Murray's Talented European Circus, making Stone, Rosston & Murray's Grand Combination Southern Circus! Proprietors: Mr. Denny Stone, formerly of the Great Southern Circus of Stone & McCollum. Mr. Frank Rosston, connected for many years with celebrated Southern circus establishments. Mr. John Murray, formerly so distinguished as one of the great acrobats. Mr. Geo. Bronson, the popular Southern and Western "Avant Courier," Murray & Holland.
• 1866: online at:
1867:
[Advertisement] Stone, Rosston & Murray's Circus. Organized for 1867. The circus par excellence of America, will exhibit at Bangor, on Main St. lot, Thursday and Friday, June 13th and 14th, afternoon and evening. In the selection of artists for this colossal alliance, it has been the proprietors' desire to secure such a variety that no patrons shall fail to find in it much that will interest the mind and attention. The brilliant cluster of celebrities which adorn this famed circus are unequalled in their several specialties.
• 1867: Stone, Rosston & Murray, online at:
• 1868: online at:
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Stone & Murray - 1869, 1871-72
1869:
[Advertisement] Stone & Murray's Combination Circus. Will exhibit in Newport on Wednesday, corner of Spring & Perry Sts., May 19, 1869. Performances afternoon and evening. Commencing at 2 1/2 and 7 1/2 o'clock Admission 50 cents. Children under 10 years, 25 cts. Look at this superb catalouge:
• 1869: online at:
1871:
[Advertisement] Stone & Murray Circus. At Bangor, Monday & Tuesday, July 3d and 4th. Three grand performances on the fourth. Prof. J. W. Hayden, aeronaut, hero of 10,000 ascensions, prior to the circus exhbition each day, at 1 o'clock p.m., will make a thrilling flight beyond the clouds in one of his monster air ships. To guard against accidents, six of these mastodons of the elements have been constructed and are carried constantly with the Stone & Murray Circus.
1872:
[Advertisement] Stone & Murray Circus. Under the sole direction of John H. Murray, manager and proprietor. Trio of equestriennes. First appearance her of the English premier, Lizzie Keyes. Mlle. Rosina, high school equestrianism. Madame Elizabeth, queen of the circle. Trio of great equestrians. Charles F. Reed, six-horse rider, pirouetteist and somersaultist. Harry Welby Cooke, British champion. Little Georgie Ducrow, child rider. Three funny clowns. David A. Seal "ellow of infinite jest." Tom Barry, comic, with the gymnastic phenomenom, the elephant Bolivar. George Adans, grotesque and eccentric clown.
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Stone Bros. - 1889, 1891
1889:
W. S. Wheeler, clown, is now with the Stone Bros. Wild West. He closed with the Ringling Bros. Circus on account of ill health. New York Clipper, September 21, 1889, p. 460.
W. S. Wheeler has been compelled to close with Stone Bros. Wild West Show, on account of ill health. He is now at Hot Springs, Ark. New York Clipper, October 19, 1889, p. 541.
1891: . . . Stone's Circus is wintering at Gretna. New York Clipper, January 17, 1891, p. 709.
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Den Stone's Southwestern Circus - 1850
The Southwestern Circus in 1850. Curtis Trask of Boston, Mass., sends the following bill of the above-named show. D. W. Stone is living; H. P. Madigan died in Kingston, Jamaica, Dec. 15, 1862; Mlle. Rosa Madigan is now the wife of "Jim" Myers, who is managing an American Circus in Europe; Le Jeune Burt is before the public; Mike Lipman is in retirement in Cincinnati, O.; A. Rockwell is dead; T. H. W. Williams is now sixty years of age, and in retirement in Boston, Mass.; R. Smith is living; Masters Charles and James Madigan are with "Jim" Myers' Circus in Europe; Sam Jackson is living in this city; Harry Whitby died in Raysville, Miss., Nov. 4, 1870.
Den Stone's - 1854 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1854
According to Thayer's Annals of the American Circus, the show originally had eleven performers and Elsenhamer's band. By mid-summer Stone cut the show down and replaced performers such as Frank and Mary Anne Whittaker, the Aymars and Mademoiselle Zanfretta with lesser known performers.
"Den" Stone when he was fourteen years old ran away from his home, Burlington, Vermont. Not only was he the son of a lawyer, but he was named in compliment to a prominent Vermont lawyer, Judge Denison. Yet even these propitiatory circumstances did not incline him towards sealing-wax, tape and briefs, for he walked twenty-five miles from Bennington to Brattleboro to join Ira Cole's Zoological Institute, of which Seth B. Howes was equestrian director. The menagerie consisted of six cages of animals, and the chief performance in the arena was Elbert Howes' act of riding and driving two horses and "carrying" the new-comer. Den Stone's second season in the arena was with Nate Howes' Circus, to join which it took him three weeks to travel from New York to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, by stages. It was in 1840 that, having appeared as clown under the late Joseph Foster, in the pantomine of "Mother Goose", he first took to the cap-and-balls. As a manager, between 1842 and 1875, he was prominently identified with Stone & McCollum's, Stone & Madigan's and Stone & Murray's Circus, and also with Den Stone's Circus and Central Park Menagerie. In 1855, despite a law against equestrian entertainments, which law, if enforced, would have bankrupted his company, the Stone, Rosston & Murray Circus boldly pitched tent in twenty towns and cities of Vermont, and clearing $30,000, strengthened the foundation of his fortune. After the Rebellion, his company was first to appear in many of the Southern cities. In addition to his numerous other enterprises, it is claimed for Mr. Stone that he was the first manager to put a circus on boat and railroad, and travel from point to point. Mr. Stone, during his career took two troupes of Indians to Europe. His last arenic venture was in 1878 in an endeavor to revive the high-class one-ring circus. Died, Franklin, New Jersey, April 20, 1892, age sixty-eight years. Bandwagon, January-February, 1958, p. 4.
Van Amburgh & Co.'s Menagerie, Den Stone's Circus & Tyler's Indian Exhibition - 1855
1855:
[Advertisement] Van Amburgh & Co.'s Menagerie, Den Stone's Circus of the People & Tyler's Indian Exhibition, united for 1855. One price of admission to witness the three combined exhibitions. The proprietors of the Menagerie, Circus & Indian Troupes, with a desire to give entire general satisfaction, and to place their united exhibitions quite beyond the reach of competition, have entered into an arrangement between themselves for the combination of their three superb establishment! Into one colossal exhibition. The whole of which may be now witnessed, collectively, under one pavilion, at the price of admission heretofore required for each of the same exhibitions when given separately. Will be exhibited at Fort Wayne on Saturday, June 9th, 1855, one day only. Open at 2 and 7 p.m.; admission only 25 cts.
Central Park Menagerie & Den Stone's Circus - 1873-74
1873:
George Murray, the promising young clown, has been secured to travel with the Central Park Menagerie and Circus. New York Clipper, February 1, 1873, p. 351.
Great Central Park Menagerie and Den Stone's Circus and Iroquis Indian Troupe organized at Brewster ___, New York. . . . Riders: Mme. De Berg, James E. Cooke, Willie O. Dale, Mlle. Cordelia and Iroquois Indians. Clowns, Den Stone, Roland and George Murray. Gymnasts, Snow Brothers and Master Horace. Manager, Henry Barnum; master of ring, R. Ellingham; press agent, John Tryon. New York Clipper, April 19, 1873, Supplement, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] Great Central Park Menagerie in combination with Den Stone's Circus. Menagerie and zoological combination circus and hippodrome consolidation. Popular price of 25 cents, no half price. Will exhibit at Newport, Tuesday, July 8th, 1873. Panoramic scenes, hippodramatic spectacles, Grecian gymnasium. . . .
The Central Park Menagerie and Den Stone's Circus, etc., closed the season at Newtown, Oct. 30. Mr. Henry Barnum, manager and co-partner, was presented with a gold watch, chain and seal as a token of appreciation. The presentation was made by T. R. Toole, press agent. . . . New York Clipper, November 8, 1873, p. 255.
1874:
The "Central Park Circus and Menagerie" and "Howes' London Circus" have been consolidated for the coming season, and will be run with Green Berry as contracting agent and T. Toole as press agent. Egbert Howes and Thomas Christopher have sold out their interest in the latter concern to James E. Kelly. New York Clipper, February 28, 1874, p. 383.
[Advertisement] Den Stone's Colossal Circus combined with Howes' Great London Circus, Sanger's English Menagerie and Iroquis Indian Troupe. Henry Barnum, manager. Logansport, Saturday, May 9th. Five trained elephants performing together in the ring at the same time go through the mazes of the dance, keep time to music, waltz, hop, talk, stand on their heads, play musican instruments, form a tableau of a pyramid of elephants. Sanger's menagerie of trained animals. Riders, gymnasts and acrobats, 100 in number.
D. W. Stone's - 1877-78
1877:
D. W. Stone, formerly senior partner and projector of the circuses known as Stone, Rosston & Co.'s and Stone & Murray's, is now organizing for the coming season. No privileges will be attached, and the voice of the candy butcher and the sideshow blower will not be heard, and no hawking of wares of any kind will be permitted in the pavilion. The following performers have been secured: Wm. Burke, singing clown; Wm. Conrad, trick clown, and his performing dogs; Lawrence Sisters, trapezists; Robert Stickney, equestrian; Rosalie Stickney, lady rider; Fred F. Levantine [Fred W. Levantine], equilibrist; the Mette Brothers, riders and gymnasts. J. A. Emidy will lead a band of twenty-five pieces. The show will travel by rail. George R. Bronson, railroad contractor; F. M. Kelsh, general agent; D. W. Stone will direct the arena in person; Charles H. Day, press agent, will accompany the expedition. Frank Hyatt, general manager. New York Clipper, December 22, 1877, p. 311.
L. B. Lent Jr. will be "attached to headquarters" with D. W. Stone's Grand Cirque next season. Young Ajax, contortionist, will be a member of the company. New York Clipper, December 29, 1877, p. 319.
1878:
Charles Lowrie, hurdle rider, has been engaged for 1878 by the new D. W. Stone Circus. Shed(?) Le Clair will be a member of D. W. Stone's company next season. New York Clipper, January 19, 1878, p. 343.
Musicians wanted for D. W. Stone's Circus. Address J. A. Emidy, leader, Third avenue, New York City. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, January 19, 1878, p. 344.
Mme. Caroline Rolland, well known here in the days of Lent's New York Circus, but who has been abroad for several years, and is now riding with J. W. Myers' American Circus in London, has been engaged by D. W. Stone, and will arrive in this country early in February, accompanied by Mr. Rolland, the cornetist, who will be attached to Emidy's band of the same organization. Madame Rolland will return with her own ring stock. Frank Hyatt, Mr. Stone's manager, has arrived in this city [New York City] from his home at Connersville, Ind. New York Clipper, January 26, 1878, p. 351.
Shed Le Clair, trapeze performer, etc., will travel with D. W. Stone's Circus the coming season. An American citizen of African descent will appear in the role of circus rider with the D. W. Stone show the coming season. New York Clipper, February 23, 1878, p. 379.
Emma Stickney, sister of Robert Stickney, the well-known equestrian, is under engagement to D. W. Stone for the coming season. New York Clipper, March 2, 1878, p. 391.
Bonnie Runnells, by the advice of his physicians, has canceled his engagement with D. W. Stone's Circus, and Thomas Murray has been substituted. Adolph Livingstone and James Campbell have also been engaged. George R. Bronson, advance director, will arrive in New York March 6. New York Clipper, March 9, 1878, p. 399.
The Duval Brothers, a new gymnastic trio, join the D. W. Stone Show. New York Clipper, March 16, 1878, p. 407.
Sanford E. Lent is engaged as treasurer for D. W. Stone's Circus, and Frank Whittaker as master of the circle. New York Clipper, March 23, 1878, p. 415.
D. W. Stone's Grand Circus and Musical Brigade. D. W. Stone, proprietor and manager; Frank Hyatt, business manager; George R. Bronson, advance director and railroad contractor; F. M. Kelsh, general agent; Charles H. Day, press agent; L. B. Lent Jr., contracting agent; Sanford E. Lent, treasurer; Wm. Simpson, master of canvas; Henry Johnsonbaugh, assistant master of canvas and transportation, master of the stables, Wm. Randolph, assistant John Walsh; advertising corps, Hop Salisbury, C. A. Potter, Frank Nash, D. Talman, C. W. Bristol, A. J. Robbins; director of band parade, Frank Whittaker; layer out, Chas. S. ___. The military band includes the double fife and drums corps, will parade the principal streets on foot each day of exhibition at 10 o'clock a.m., and supply the musical portions of every programme, equipped in uniforms of the French Imperial Guary fo the time of Napoleon. J. A. Emidy is the conductor. The company includes Madame Caroline Rolland, Miss Emma Stickney, Robert Stickney, Rudolph Mette, Charles Lowrie, "Lewis" an American citizen of African descent; riders: Lawrence Sisters, Mette Brothers, Duval Brothers, Frederick F. Levantine, Shed Le Claire, Charles W. Burrows, James Campbell, Nicholas Lawrence, Adolphe Livingstone and Thomas Murray, gymnasts, acrobats, leapers, etc.; William Burke, William Conrad, clowns, and Frank Whittaker, master of the circle. Training quarters at Franklin, N.J.; organized in New York. Regular season begins in New Haven, Ct., April 22. Travels by rail, employing ten cars and two sleeping coaches. No sideshows or peddling on the seats permitted. Concert owned by the management, Chas. S. Burrows, director. Sophie Victoria North, ___ and Steele, Sallie St. Clair and Thomas Murray are engaged. New York Clipper, April 6, 1878, p. 15.
D. W. Stone will give a "trial trip" with his new show at Boulevard and Lincoln avenue, New York, April 20, before beginning his season's tour at New Haven 22. New York Clipper, April 13, 1878, p. 23.
D. W. Stone's Grand Circus and Musical Brigade. 1842-1878, thirty-six years in the arena. 7 riders, Madame Caroline Rolland, Miss Mollie Brown, Miss Emma Stickney, Robert Stickney, Rudolph Mette, Charles Lowrie, "Lewis," only African circus rider. 17 athletes: Lawrence Sisters, 3 Mette Brothers, 3 Duval Brothers, Frederick Levantine, Shed Le Clair, Charles S. Burrows, Nicholas Lawrence, Adolph Livingstone, Thomas Murray, Messrs Stickney & Lowrie. Frank Whittaker, master of the circus. The "leaps" led by Robert Stickney. "The Trampoline," a new act of double leaping and vaulting by Messrs Lowrie, LeClaire and Campbell. The clowns: William E. Burke, William Conrad. Wm. Conrad's funny dogs and goats. "Knights of Palestine," a tournament participated in by mounted men and horses in silver armor, led by the Queens of the Amazons. Musical brigade consistin gof 37 instrumentalists, forming a brass and reed band of 25 solo artists, and 12 fife and drum corps. The laughable bagatelle, A Horse to Let, a new equestrian farce. Street parade by the monster band and double fife and drum corps. No sideshows, no peddlars. . . . New York Clipper, April 20, 1878, p. 32.
D. W. Stone's Circus and Musical Brigade opened their traveling season in Mott Haven, N.Y., April 20. New York Clipper, April 27, 1878, p. 39.
[Advertisement] D. W. Stone's Grand Circus and Muscial Brigade will exhibit at Boston five days, commencing Monday, May 6th. Coliseum grounds, Dartmouth Street. Attractions: Madame Caroline Rolland, Miss Emma Stickney, the Lawrence Sisters, Robert Stickney, Rudolph Mette, Charles Lowrie, "Lewis" only African circus rider, William E. Burke, Willian Conrad, Three Mette Brothers, Frederick F. Levantine, Shed, Le Claire, Three Duval Brothers, James Campbell, Chas. S. Burrows, Nicholas Lawrence, Adolph Livingstone, Thomas Murray.
Collapsed. In Chicago, Ill., says our correspondent, "owing to the continued stormy weather and other unfortunate circumstances, D. W. Stone’s Circus collapsed after the performances May 29. Mr. Bronson, a Kansas stockman, the principal money-backer, went West 28, and has not been heard from since. The sorrowful group of circus people (and excellent performers, too) are out five week’s salary, and are drying their skins about the hospitable fires of the Commercial House." New York Clipper, June 8, 1878.
1879: Den Stone, clown and equestrian director, with troupe of ten Iorquois Indians, appearing in their exciting scene, entitled The Comanches' Escape from the Seminoles. Also in street parade and grand entree. Can be engaged with or without Indians. Den Stone, Franklin, Essex Co., N.J. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, February 8, 1879, p. 363.
1879: Den Stone has sailed for Europe with eleven Indians. New York Clipper, May 3, 1879, p. 47.
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Frank Stone's Crescent City - 1892
Wanted, for the Crescent City Circus, band of eight mouthpieces, also people in all branches of circus business. Address Frank Stone, general manager, Sherman House, Jeffersonville, Ind. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 62.
Call. People engaged for F. Stone's Crescent City Shows report for rehearsal at Jeffersonville, Ind. April __. Wanted, one clarionet, two B cornet and one baritone players. Frank Stone, Sherman House, Jeffersonville, Ind. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 108.
Roster of the Frank Stone Shows: Frank Stone, sole owner; Capt. S. J. Oatman, manager; "Uncle Dan" Castello, equestrian director; W. W. Horn, treasurer; J. J. McCourt (Little Mack), door keeper; Tully Strayer, general agent, with six assistants; Prof. Wm. Spies(?), in charge of band; Prof. H. B.(E.?) Christopher, leader of orchestra . . . Harry Morrell . . . Ed. Warner . . . the Leondas, ___ and Christopher, and Mrs. T. J. Oatman. The show opened at New Albany, Ind., April 26(?). New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 130.
On the road, circuses: Frank Stone's, Leavenworth, IN May 4, Carrellton(?) 5, Owensboro KY 6, 7, Henderson 9 . . . New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 135.
Notes from the Frank Stone & Co.'s Combined Shows. The Frank Stone & Co.'s Combined Shows opened its season at New Albany, Ind., Feb 26(?), under favorable circumstances. The canvas was crowded at each performance for five days. At Jeffersonville we took the steamer John Fowler for our tour on the Ohio. At every town business was good. We show at Paducah, Ky. for days, from where the show goes by rail, having purchased new cars, eight head of horses, wagons, etc. The boys are all sorry to leave the boat, as it was very comfortable. . . . Old Uncle Dan Costello(?) is as funny as ever. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 178.
St. Louis, Missouri. Stone & Co.'s circus was stranded here last week, and some eighty employes were looking for the treasurer. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 210.
T. J. Oatman and wife, and Uncle Dan Castello arrived at Chicago June 16, to join King and Sandown's(?) Great Australian Circus. T. J. Oatman wishes to state that he and his wife are not, nor have they ever been, with the Great American Circus. New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 244.
On the road, circuses: Stone's, Hagerstown Md. July 28. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
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William Stone's World Circus - 1851
John Glenroy made a contract in March, 1851, with William Stone to break horses for his circus, which was to open in April. He was joined by Henry Gardiner, another rider, and they went to Philadelphia where they broke the horses in time for the opening of the circus April 23 in Camden, N. J., under the title of the World's Circus. Stone's company included Gardiner and Glenroy, riders; Silas Baldwin, juggler and plate spinner; Charles Devere, clown and slack rope walker; Thomas King, clown and acrobat; Frederick Rentz, rider; Harrison Huff, ringmaster, and Thomas Williams, cannon ball performer, leaper, juggler, just returned from an absence of eight years in South America, where he used the name of Signor Guilluamus Henrico, conferred upon him by the emperor of Brazil.
Also see Glenroy's account, online in Glenroy, Chapter VII (scroll down or use find).
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Stow & Co. - 1860 or Stowe & Co.
• Stuart Thayer's Annals of the American Circus, 1793-1860 lists Stow & Co. Great Show and Colleseum, 1860.
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Stowe's Western Circus & Indian Show - 1868 (Albert & Eliakim Stowe, owners)
• 1868: online at:
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Stowe's - 1871 (probably E. Stowe's)
We see in an exchange that Stow's circus was attached in Davenport the other day for a score of unpaid debts. The establishment, since its seizure, has been going the rounds more rapidly than ever, for one creditor has the Shetland pony, another the painted wagon, and so on through the list of curiosities. Weekly Citizen (Centerville, IA), July 15, 1871, n.p.n.
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Stowe & Nathans' - 1881
Wanted, for Stowe & Nathans' New Colossal Shows, performers in all branches of the circus business. Also band of six pieces, brass and string, for Southern tour. Season opens latter part of October. Privileges for sale. Addres Stowe & Nathans, Janesville, Wis. New York Clipper, September 24, 1881, p. 441.
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Stowe & Norton - 1869
Stowe & Norton's Western Circus is organizing to start from Berrien Springs, Michigan, on or about May 1. New York Clipper, February 20, 1869, p. 366.
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Stowe & Orton - 1870
[Advertisement] John Stowe's Great Southern Circus and Egyptian Caravan and American Exposition. Three distinct shows combined in one. Will exhibit at Washington, Friday, May 13th. Watch for the herd of Egyptian camels which will appear in their oriental housements, in the grand street parade, led by their native keeper. The company will enter the city about 10 o'clock, preceded by the elegant band chariot "Sea-Shell," containing Prof. Gorton's New Orleans Silver Cornet Band, drawn by eight spotted horses, followed by the Egyptian camels. Performances afternoon and evening. Doors open at 1 and 6 o'clock p.m. Admission fifty cents. Children 10 years and under, half price. Washington Gazette (IN), May 7, 1870, n.p.n.
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A. B. Stow's - 1873, 1875
1873:
[Advertisement] Great North American Circus & Hippodrome. A. B. Stow, manager. Augusta, Me., Tuesday, June 17th. Among the leading artists will be found Mr. E. W. Perry, Master H. Perry, Miss Minnie Perry, M'lle Lotino, M'lle Jennette Ellsler, Mons. Reveni, Zeo Zeonette, Messrs. Briggs, Johnson, Tourniaire, Benner Brothers. Two comical clowns, Billy Andrews and G. Jackson, &c., &c. A free exhibition will be given by the lady ascensionist, on a single wire, to the top of the pavilions, at one o'clock p.m. The military orchestra is led by Adolphe Nichols. The band will accompany the entertainments, and perform previous to the ring exercises. Will exhibit at Gardner, June 18, Waldoboro, June 19, Thomaston, June 20. Daily Kennebec Journal (ME), June 11, 1873, n.p.n.
1875:
A. B. Stowe's Circus and Menagerie has been engaged for the season at Savin Rock Beach, New Haven, Ct. New York Clipper, April 24, 1875, p. 31.
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Stowe Bros. - 1896
Notes from Stowe Bros.' Shows. We have been over the mountains of West Virginia and Kentucky. Our intention was to travel to the extreme South, but the climate was too warm, and we changed our route and are working our way northward. As soon as we strike the Ohio River we will dispense with our wagons and convert to a railroad show. Col. Frank Stowe is with the advance for a few days. Our band is under the supervision of W. B. Johnson. Lou [Lon?] Stowe's feats in midair is captivating the audiences. New York Clipper, July 25, 1896, p. 325.
• An article on the Stowe Bros. Circus, 1860s & 1870s is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1985, Vol. 29, No. 6, pp. 49-56.
• Information on the 1880 Stowe's show, titled Dan Rice's New Great Show, is in the article on the Stowe Circus and the Stowe family in Bandwagon, May-June, 1986, Vol. 30, No. 3, pp. 14-21.
• An article on the Stowe family, mid-1880s to the turn of the century, is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1987, Vol. 31, No. 2, pp. 24-30.
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Frank Stowe's - 1874
Great Western Aggregation. Travels by wagon, Starts from Saugatuck, Mich., about May 5, where the proprietor is building everything new. Wanted, gymnasts, such as trapeze and bar performers (leaping and tumbling a specialty), cannon-ball performer, juggler, contortionist, light and heavy balancers, etc., also six musicians. A responsible agent. To rent, concert, candy stand, outside show, dollar store, etc. Address Frank Stowe, proprietor, Saugatuck, Allegan Co., Mich. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, February 28, 1874, p. 379.
Harry Jefferson joins Frank Stowe's Great Western Aggregation. New York Clipper, April 25, 1874, p. 31.
The Great Western Aggregation Balloon Show and Bedouin Arab Troupe is to commence a traveling tour at Sangatuck, Mich., May 4, 5. Frank Stowe, proprietor and manager; leader of band, C. Fritz; agent, John M. Hickey; master of canvas, Jerry Jones; master of horse, R. Cadwell. The company will include an Arab Troupe, the Bliss Brothers, Mlle. Rossellie and John Murtz, Painter and Durant, Fields, Brown, Davis, Harry Jefferson . . . Number of horses, 40; baggage and other wagons, 15; two tents. A sideshow will be added about May 20, and the concert will be made a special feature. All privileges will be by the proprietor. During the first two weeks the show will travel by boat and rail. New York Clipper, April 25, 1874, p. 31.
Frank Stowe's Great Western Aggregation collapsed at Grand Rapids, Mich., May 26. The Arab Troupe performed at the Opera-house on May 30 to raise funds to take them out of town. They left for Chicago, Ill., June 1. New York Clipper, June 13, 1874, p. 87.
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Stowe, Long & Gumble - 1889 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1889
Call. Stowe & Long's Worlds Eclipsing Circus, Menagerie and Wild West. All people engaged to report at Hawk's Station, Vinton, Ohio, April 20(?). Address Stowe & Long, South High Street, Columbus, O. New York Clipper, March 16, 1889, p. 15.
John J. and Florence Murray go with Stowe & Long's Show. New York Clipper, April 6, 1889, p. 59.
Max Zimmerman has purchased an interest in the sideshow with Stowe & Long's Circus. New York Clipper, April 13, 1889, p. 81.
Stow, Long & Gumble's Trans-Continental Circus and Menagerie and Balloon Shows opened April 26(?) at Hawks, O. They play Columbus, O., for one week, then take the road and make one day stands only. Roster: Stow, Long & Gumble, owners and managers; Matt Smith, press agent; Prof. Ned Houston and band of twelve pieces; Harry Long, treasurer; Robert Whittaker, equestrian director. Performers: Miss Lambkins, J. Stow, J. Person, Robert Whittaker, Three Martinneti Bros, acrobats; Prof. White with his dog and pony circus; Miss Downie, and Downie and Melville, Sam Rhinehart, J. Booker and Ben Downie, Braham Bros. . . . Frank Sparks, Frank Gillett, Edwin Martinnetti, Millie Lorretto, Miss Barreto and Leon Kimmell. Concert people: Ainsley and Downie, Nellie Rivers . . . Kitty Mead, Montana Frank and Buckeye George. Balloon people: Prof. Jewell, Prof. H. Gruber, Chas. Richmond. Sideshow people: Max Zimmeran, manager; Lew Zimmeran, assistant manager; John Lewis, sideshow talker; Jasper Zulu . . . Millie Jasper, Baldwin Allen, half horse and half man, Lew Smith and Jack Smith's colored band of ten pieces. New York Clipper, May 18, 1889, p. 161.
Max W. Zimmerman writes that the Stowe & Long Show went to pieces last week in Kentucky. Salaries remain unpaid, and everything is in a bad way, he adds. Manager Zimmerman had control of the sideshow, but sold out his interest for ten cents on the dollar two days prior to the break up. New York Clipper, July 6, 1889, p. 274.
The Stowe, Long & Gumble Circus, Menagerie and Balloon Shows opened April 25, 1889, sometimes advertised as Stowe & Long. It was operated by James Stowe, Harry Long and Abe Gumble, organized in Columbus, Ohio. It is sometimes referred to as Go Slow and Stumble, and was in the hands of the Sheriff in Kentucky. More information on this show is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1987, Vol. 31, No. 2, pp. 26, 27.
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John Stowe's - 1867
• 1867: online at Clipper, November 2 (scroll down)
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John F. Stowe's - 1888-89, 1890-92
1888:
Wanted for John F. Stowe & Co.'s All Feature 10c Shows, circus people in every branch except riders, aerial acts, brother acts, contortion, bars, leapers, tumblers, high wire, performing horses, trick donkeys, educated dogs, monkeys, goats, pigs, cats, etc. Uniformed band of eight mouthpieces and a novel feature for parade. Gun drillist and bugler preferred. Boss canvasman also wanted. Week stands. Show opens April 23. Address John F. Stowe, 17 West Sixth street, Covington, Ky. New York Clipper, March 17, 1888, p. 18.
John F. Stowe & Co.'s Show opened season at Covington, Ky. Roster: John F. Stowe & Co., proprietors; A. M. ("Burt") Stowe, manager; J. M. Cullins, advance; William Irwin, equestrian manager; Henry Fenker, treasurer; Wesley Emerson, master of canvas with nine assistants; John Govenloch and two assistants, properties; Sam Brown, master of stock; Wm. Jones, superintendent of culinary department. Performers: William Irwin, D. L. Nichols, Sebastian Moncayo, De Albertie, Al. Devaney, Sargt. Geo. N. La Bree . . . Annie Orval, Loretta, John F. Stowe and others. Concert people: Chas. H. King, Burt Stowe, La Barr, Billy Baker, De Vaney and Ray, Minnie Lewis Sargt. La Bree and Prof. Ruddick's band of ten pieces. New York Clipper, May 26, 1888, p. 169.
John F. Stowe & Co.'s Circus have closed their season of five weeks in Cincinnati, O. Prof. Morris' equine paradox has lately been added for the road tour. New York Clipper, June 16, 1888, p. 219.
1889:
Stowe Bros.' New Colossal Shows. Two rings, Wild West and Historial Indian Village. Wanted, all kinds of circus people, trained horses, ponies, dogs, monkeys, etc.; also cowboys, Indians, rifle shots, Mexican athletes, musicians, boss canvasman, and chandelier man. Sideshow and candy stands privileges for rent. Address John F. Stowe, Jefferson street, Louisville, Ky. New York Clipper, March 16, 1889, p. 15.
Roster of Stowe Bros.' Colossal Shows: Stowe Bros., proprietors and managers; J. M. Cullins, general agent; C. White, Julian Ty-Bell, Thos. Dawson, Henry Miller, Wm. Bailey, the Ty-Bells, Werner and Bevens, Harry Alberti, the Fuegos, Garnello Bros., Moncayo, Millett Sisters, Kentucky Frank, Colorado Joe, Wild Bart, Texas Harry and Chief Running Deer's band of Comanche Indians. The troupe opens its season April 22, traveling by rail. New York Clipper, April 20, 1889, p. 97.
Roster of Stowe Bros.' Circus and Wild West: Stowe Bros., proprietors and managers; John F. Stowe, manager; Bert Stowe, business manager; Harry Seymore, treasurer; I.(?) J. Westwood, secretary; T. J. Tremaine, press agent; J. Falkner, railroad contractor; I. L. Lockwood, master of transportation; Geo. Jennier, equestrian director; Fred Leavens, with fifteen assistants, in advance; Geo. Jennier, John Shields . . . Master Jennier, Geo. Gun, Marx and Alonzo, Master Shields, D. L. Nichols, Alex. Scafar, Maggie Day and Geo. Day, chariots; N. S. Wood and Harry Bluften, jockeys; D. T. Cameron and J. Hollywood, sprinters. Wild West: Chief Running Deer John Deer, Man-no-qua-ta, Os-Qui-h-to, Split Bark, Red Beaver, Rolling Thunder, Kentucky Frank, Buckeye George, Yellowstone Vic, Texas John, Rattlesnake Dave and Wild Horse Harry. Concert: Sig. Del Fuego, Clark and Gilmore, M. J. Foley, James Ryan, W. H. Hickey, George Day, Minnie Allen,Alice Fuego, Nina Jennier, Tillie Deer, and Clarence Arnold's band of ten pieces. P. McNerney, boss canvasman with twenty-five men; Ed Smith, property boss with five assistants; Harry Nash, wardrobe; Ed. Kearney, boss hostler. Forty-three horses, ten cars, a 125ft. round top with three 40ft. middle pieces. The show played four weeks at Cincinnati, O. New York Clipper, August 10, 1889, p. 354.
Roster of Stowe Bros.' Colossal Shows and Wild West: Stowe Bros., managers; Fred Leavens, general agent; A. S. Kohland, contracting agent; Geo. Jennier, equestrian manager; H. S. Haley, master of canvas . . . John Hays, master of transportation; C. A. Donaldson, manager of privileges; Dr. M. Hickey, lecturer; B. Sylvens, treasurer; Prof. Arnold, leader of band; Jennier and son, D. L. Nichols, Geo. Day, Bliss and Hickey, Wm. Wheeler, Mlle. Loyall, Mme. Donaldson, Wm. Whitie, Harris Sisters, Master Georgie Jennier. Wild West: Chief Running Deer, Split Bark, Red Beaver, Running Wolf . . . Kisko, Ky Frank, Yellowstone Vic, Buckeye George, Apache Charley, Colorado Bob and Bull Whip Bill. New York Clipper, October 12, 1889, p. 513.
• Information on the 1890-97 John F. Stowe shows is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1987, Vol. 31, No. 2, pp. 24-30.
1890:
Notes from Stowe Bros.' Shows. Business has been very good throughout the South. The Wild West features have proved a big card, and are pronounced by the press to be one of the best exhibitions of frontier life ever seen in the South. The employees of the show recently presented Manager John F. Stowe with a pure white solitaire diamond, the occasion being the anniversary of Mr. Stowe's birth. The show is now near the close of what had proved a most profitable season, and all arrangements for the season of 1890 are perfected. Several new cars will be added, and there will be a complete new tent . . . It is the intention of the management to give, in addition to the circus and wild west, hippodrome races on a __ft. track. The death of A. N. King, far away in London, was heard of through the Clipper with much sorrow by the entire company, especially by Messrs. Stowe Bros., who had both in the past enjoyed close friendship with the deceased. John F. Stowe was for several years intimately associated with Mr. King, and once served as equestrian director of the King & Franklin Show. New York Clipper, January 25, 1890, p. 759.
Stowe Bros.' Circus notes. The show closed a successful season of thirty-six weeks at Birmingham, Ala., Jan. 30(?), and shipped direct to their commodious winter quarters at Cincinnati, where they will go into extensive preparations for the coming year. The management promises one of the best and most novel shows on the road next season. A large force of men will be kept constantly employed building paraphernalia pertaining to a full fledged railroad show. New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 791.
Stowe Bros.' Colossal R. R. Shows, World's Museum, Roman Hippodrome and Historical Wild West. Wanted, novel and sensational acts of every description, riders and drivers for hippodrome races, long haired cowboys and Indians . . . Performing ponies, dogs and monkeys, and other performing animals; twenty sober and experienced billposters, good chandelier man . . . horse drivers, canvas man, property man. . . . Wanted to buy sleeping car and ___ flat car. For sale - all kinds of show paraphernalia. . . . New York Clipper, February 22, 1890, p. 831.
Stowe Bros.' call. All people engaged will report as follows. Bill posters, lithographers, programmers and calliope player for advance car will report Sunday, April 12(?). Performers, band hippodrome and Wild West people, grooms, canvasmen and trainmen will report Wednesday April 23(?). Canvasmen report to M. J. Haley. . . . All other people to Stowe Bros., ?? Central Avenue, Cincinnati. Wanted, a few more good bill posters, and experienced chandelier man and property men. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 76.
Cincinnati, Ohio. Tommy Hart and Albert Craston, of Stowe Brothers are with us for a short time. Manager John H.(?) Havlin is home from St. Louis. Stowe Bros.' Colossal Railroad Shows open the season at Covington, Ky., just over the bridge, 24(?). New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 99.
Stowe Bros.' roster: general managers, John F. and Burt Stowe; general advance representative, T. B. Long; contracting agent, Charles Ellis; assistant agent, A. O. Cass; boss billposter, Fred Gilbert with ten assistants; equestrian manager, Fred H. Leslie; treasurer, George L. Behrans; assistant treasurer, John Keenan; master of canvas, M. T. Haley, with Ed. Kennedy and thirty men; master of stock, R. Rual with then men; manager of sideshow, C. A. Donaldson; superintendent of Wild West, Oregon Kit; Prof. F. Long's military band of fourteen pieces . . . Performers: Jennier Family; Smith Brothers . . . Master Welch; Mlle. Barton; Fred H. Leslie; Lawrence Sisters; Sergt. George . . . Mons. Jean Jacobs . . . Chief White Cloud and Comanche Indians; Buckeye George and Kentucky Frank. New York Clipper, May 3, 1890, p. 126.
Fred Gilbert has taken charge of advertising car No. 1,Stowe Bros.' Shows . . . This is the roster of the car: Fred Gilbert, manager . . . Geo. H. Allen, lithographer; Mack Meyers, programmer . . . Horace Hawkins, porter and . . . ?. F. Harrison . . . Geo. Lawrence, Thomas Humble and G. R. Meyers, billposters. New York Clipper, May 17, 1890, p. 155.
Mrs. John Stowe, of Stowe Bros.' Circus, celebrated her birthday June _, at Muskegon, Mich., and was the recipient of some handsome presents from the company. After the performance Mrs. Stowe gave a reception under the Wild West canvas. The show reports good business. New York Clipper, June 21, 1890, p. 231.
John F. Stowe, of Stowe Bros.' Circus, and his wife were Clipper callers Aug. 26(?). . . . Lucius Foster, boss canvasman, recently joined the show. New York Clipper, August 30, 1890, p. 387.
St. Louis, Missouri. The Stowe Bros.' Railroad Show did not ___ their date at East St. Louis. There was some trouble between the brothers and the billposters attached the advertising car at ___. New York Clipper, November 1, 1890, 531.
The Stowe Bros. Circus has come to grief. Frank Reynolds, of Cincinnati, and a member of the firm, closed the show for debt. Salaries were due the agents, billposters and others, and Charles Ellis(?), contracting agent, and Fred Gilbert attached the advertising car at St. Louis for their unpaid salaries. New York Clipper, November 1, 1890, 539.
Notes from Stowe Bros.' Circus, on board the steamer Rob Roy, plying the Mississippi and Yazoo Rivers: Our company consists of Mr. and Mrs. John T. Stowe, Burt Stowe, Tom Crowe, Wm. Sloman, advance; Lon Harrison, boss billposter, with six assistants; Buckeye George, treasurer; Sig. Zano, equestrian director; Prof. Jake Michael, leader of band of eight mouthpieces; Prof. Henry Eggar, leader of orchestra, with six pieces; Jno. Keenan . . . handle the tickets and privileges; and Ed. Williams, master of canvas. Performers: . . . Sig. Zano, Fred Jinks, Eddie Harman, Ida Harman, Buckeye George, Harry White, Sig. Zano, Fred Wallace and Frank Watson. Our sideshow consists of Prof. Kerrigan's decapitation, living mermaids, magic, ventriloquism and his illusion "Satan's Throne." Prof. Leno, up to the present, has made fifteen aerial flights, the most remarkable at Wilton's Landing. After he had ascended 500ft. high, he began to descent, and landed 300ft. from the furnace. Not being satisfied, he had his balloon carried back, while inflated, placed over the furnace and refilled it. He went to the height of 5,000ft., alighting within 10ft. of the river bank. The Clipper is a welcome visitor every week. The most costly one was purchased at Vicksburg. We bid on it, and it was at last knocked down for fifty cents. When we got to the wharf we found our boat gone, and a 100 miles railroad fare to pay. The man in white had walked in the morning, which is regularly every week, therefore we were all O.K. New York Clipper, December 13, 1890, p. 629.
1891:
Mrs. Margaret Stowe, mother of the Stowe Bros. of circus fame - John F. and Bert - died April 29(?). She will be remembered by many of the oldest of amusement caterers as being one of the first, if not the first, lady magician in this country, who, forty years ago, in company with her husband, John Stowe, gave entertainments in school houses and dining halls in vallages that are now large and prosperous cities. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 155.
Cincinnati, Ohio. ___ and Billy Gibbs have signed with Stowe's Circus, to do wrestling bouts, pugilistic turns and statue acts. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 166.
The Sheppards, Frank and Katie, closed a week's engagement at Kohl & Middleton's Museum, Cincinnati, and joined the Stowe Bros.' Circus. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 215.
The Stowe Bros.' Show has successfully inaugurated another season in the suburbs of Cincinnati. The weather spoiled business at Pendleton, but at . . . and Camp Washington the attendance was large and enthusiastic. The show is really a good one, and is on the order of an olio under canvas. The Elliots do a very clever act. Tom McInerney(?) and Billy Gibbs are taking cards. They appear in living statues and in the concert after the performance spar for four rounds. John F. Stowe is the manager of the show; J. E. Elliott, treasurer; William Gibbs, equestrian director; Thomas J. Crowe, advance representative; William Ransom, master of canvas; and John Myers, master of stock. The performers include: Frank Calbert, the Shepharads . . . Borrell, Harry Bowers . . . William Conrad, Harris and Rhodes, the Lee Sisters, William Sloman and others. New York Clipper, June 20, 1891, p. 249.
Christmas with Stowe's Circus. Everybody is happy, and all work with a vim that plainly told that Christmas was no ordinary day with them. We arrived on the lot at 7.30 o'clock, and by 9 o'clock the tents were all up and everything in perfect order. at 10.30 the parade started. After the return the company repaired to the dining car, where an elaborate spread was laid. a Fitting address was delivered by Mr. Stowe, after which a toast for his prosperity was drank. The car was beautifully decorated, and everything wore a cheery aspect. Just as the dinner was finished the canvasmen were driven up in hacks, headed by their worthy director, J. Weaver, who, after a short but appropriate address on behalf of himself and fellow workmen, presented Mr. Stowe with a handsome gold chain. . . . New York Clipper, January 16, 1892, p. 753.
1892:
John F. Stowe's Railroad Shows sailed for Key West Jan. 4, and gave their first exhibition 6. Their engagement will last ten days, after which they will likely sail for Havana, Cuba, thence to Central America. John F. Stowe, having returned from an extensive trip through that country, reports prospects favorable. Their trip may extend through the entire season. People: John F. Stowe and wife, the Elliott Family, Courtney and Alida, D. L. Nichols, Powell . . . Mlle. Eugenia, Prof. Frye's troupe of ponies, dogs and monkeys; Sig. Cannon's museum of wax figures and illusions; Mme. Cannon's flock of performing cockatoos and parrots . . . Jack Weaver in charge of canvas, Ed. Deleware, master of properties; W. Sloman, orator; Whitey Marshall, master of stock. The show will use a 100ft. top, with two 40ft. middle pieces, a 60ft. tope with a 20ft. middle piece for the museum, a sideshow horse tent and cook tent, fifteen head of horses, ponies and mules, four baggage, one band and one ticket wagon. The show sails from Port Tampa. New York Clipper, January 16, 1892, p. 747.
Stowe's Circus, after a ten day's engagement to reported good business, has sailed for Havana, Cuba. New York Clipper, February 6, 1892, p. 795.
Stowe's Circus wants circus people in every branch. Performers, musicians, bosses in every department to join show in Florida on or about May 10. Will pay cash for two long cars, flat and combination, flat and stock. Also trick horse or two ponies and troupe of dogs. Address John F. Stowe, Circo Pubiliones and Stowe, Cafe Central , Havana, Cuba. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 125.
Stowe's Circus wants a few more sensational acts of every description. Also musicians, trained animals, bosses, cooks, grooms, canvas man, light man, etc. Address John F. Stowe, ___ Centre Street, New York. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 175.
Band leader wanted, also clarionette and baritone for Stowe's Circus. Address John F. Stowe, ___ Walnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 241.
Baltimore, Maryland. John F. Stowe's Circus pitched its tents at Madison Avenue and Bloom Street for one week, commencing 11. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
"Doc" Miller has closed with John Stowe's Show, and is now in this city, where he will practice an aerial act with his wife. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
De Mora, hand balancer and contortionist, has closed with J. F. Stowe's Circus, and is resting at his home, Rochester, N.Y. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 506.
The business staff of John F. Stowe's Railroad Show is: Harry Moore, general agent; C. E. Kenney, contracting agent; J. H. Wood, press agent and superintendent advertising car No. 1; H. R. Cook, chief billposter; Chas. Hardy, programmer; Geo. Wilds, lithographer; Joe Woodard, John Davis, J. K. Cote(?), J. G. Clark, H. Cleveland, O. K. Wright, Jas. Sullivan, Pete Morris, Wm. Miller and H. G. Main, billposters; Prof. Williams, porter. The show is headed for the South for the winter. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 507.
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William H. Stowe's - 1881-82
1881:
Wm. H. Stowe purchased for $1,200 the entire circus and menagerie belonging to Wm. T. Thornton, which was sold by Sheriff's sale in New Orleans, La., Jan. 18. Mr. Stowe intends to refit the show and start from there by rail about March 1. New York Clipper, January 29, 1881, p. 355.
W. H. Stowe's Great United Exhibition, New York and New Orleans Zoological Institute, Roman Amphitheater, French Art Museum, Imperial Double Circus, and Royal British Menagerie, exhibit at Clinton, O., Aug. 10. The show embraces forty-six cages and wagons, one hundred and twenty horses and eighty-five people. Wm. H. Stowe, sole proprietor and manager. New York Clipper, August 6, 1881, pp. 322, 323.
W. H. Stowe was recently presented by a number of citizens of Albion, Pa., with an American flag, bearing in its centre in large letters "Wm. H. Stowe." The flage was first displayed Aug. 6 from the centre pole of a new canvas, which was then spread for the first time in honor of the changing of the name of the show from that of Dan Rice to W. H. Stowe. The entire company, officers and attaches, are to shortly appear in new uniforms of blue cloth, trimmed with gold, and having a badge designating the wearer's position. During the coming Winter Mr. Stowe will run two shows - one bearing his name, which will travel by land, and the other, which will travel by steamer on the Southern rivers, to be called Dan Rice's New and Grand Circus. The boat show will start from Pittsburg, Pa., Oct. 1.
1882:
W. H. Stowe's Circus arrived in Mobile, Ala., Jan. 17, per steamer Lotus No. 2, from the Alabama River. A correspondent says: "Their business has been good. The company includes W. H. Stowe, manager and owner; John Trewalla, agent; R. E. Elbreik, treasurer; B. F. Tatun, asst. manager; Lizzie Marcellus, the Bertram Sisters, Bert Stowe, Charles Bell, Irwin Brothers, Mons. Lavely, Charles Morosco, Visham Maxwell, Geo. W. Howard, Peter Manning; James Swift, boss hostler; Wm. Ray, the midget; Frank Singleton, giant; Wm. Hamilton, Harry Goetcher, Joe West, Lester Sutton, Frank Stowe; Herr Lindaman, lion tamer; Ed Lord, George Tisdale, Ed. Thorne, Robby Muriha, Peter Coe, John Glenroy. The show has with it nineteen cages of animals. The company left the same day to take a steamer upon the Mississippi River, and will give performances on the Bayou Lafourche, La." New York Clipper, January 28, 1882, p. 739.
George S. Cole's Southern Circus and Menagerie billed all towns on the Mississippi River and the Bayou Teche, commencing Jan. 24. A correspondent says: "On the announced dates W. H. Stowe's Shows, also traveling by boats, put up their tents in the same towns, when the liveliest excitement was caused, both parties having outsiders, street ticket peddlers, steamboat excursions, street parades, and every artifice was resorted to to attract the crowd. This opposition continues until Feb. 1, at several places, the price of tickets being reduced to twenty-five cents. At Franklin a compromise was effected, both shows combining, retaining all their performers, joining street parades, and putting up the largest display of canvas ever seen in this country, and both show transporting their respective shows on their own boats. The result justified the wisdom of the scheme, and both will continue this combination for the rest of the season. Route: Red River, Onachita, Bayou Bartholomew, De Glaize and Mississippi River. W. H. Stowe assumes the equestrian management, George S. Cole and W. O. Monroe are the directors, and Matt Leland is in advance." New York Clipper, February 18, 1882, p. 791.
Memphis, March 30. Cincinnati and New Orleans steamer Golden City, enroute from New Orleans to Cincinnati, burned at the wharf this morning. Saved so far as known are Robt. E. Elbrick, treasurer, Stowe's circus, John H. Trewalla, business agent, Burt Stowe, brother to the proprietor, Frank Stowe, James Swift, Jno. Filbert, John Mulane, J. C. Kimpet, John G. Gileney, James Bloomfield, James Burke, all the members of Stowe's circus. Stowe's circus was taken aboard at Vidalia, La., and six cages of animals and birds, together with the ticket and band wagon, tents and horse, were lost. J. H. Cronk, connected with Stowe's circus, is missing, supposed to be lost. Isaac Dickson, for the past two years keeper of the animals of Stowe's menagerie, stated that he was asleep under one of the animal cages on the lower deck when the cry of fire was given. He leaped forth, but saw no fire, then he saw the center of the boat a mass of flames. As soon as the boat touched the coal fleet he jumped ashore. Six cages contained a lion, tiger, two leopards, and albino deer, monkeys, birds. Four horses also belonging to the circus were aboard. Three were saved and one, the celebrated trick horse Selim, was lost. . . . Oshkosh Daily Northwestern (Oshkosh, WI), March 30, 1882, p. 1.
Cincinnati Gazette, March 31. Among those aboard the ill-fated steamer Golden City were the members of W. H. Stowe's circus. Mr. Stowe, his wife, and two children were among those reported lost. Mrs. Stowe, known by her maiden name of Lizzie Marcellus, was an adopted daughter of old Dan Rice, the veteran clown. The Stowe circus started out early last spring under the name of the Great Dan Rice Show, with Uncle Dan as clown and Stowe as the business manager, though it virtually belonged to a Mr. J. C. Oakes, of Memphis, who has contracted to pay Dan Rice for the use of his name. Not proving a financial success, Rice attached the tent and fixtures for $2,600, and the show was then turned over to W. H. Stowe, a new start being made from Aberdeen, O., early in May. After traveling the South during the winter they had embarked on the Golden City for Cairo, where a man by the name of Ross was expected to meet them and take a partnership interest with Stowe, and inaugurate the summer season. With the party were Robert E. Ellbrick, treasurer; John Trewalla, business manager, a former protege of Dan Rice; Burt Stowe, agent, and Frank Stowe, brothers of the proprietor; James Swift and John Filbert, "candy butchers," and John Mullane, a beast tamer. Mrs. Stowe, or Lizzie Marcellus, was a queen of the arena, a graceful rider and one of the handsomest women in the profession. She came from near Schenectady, N. Y., where she was born, her father occupying a small farm in that locality, but now a master mechanic in one of the machine shops at Albany, N. Y. William H. Stowe, about 30 years of age, was born in a small town of Western Ohio, and has been in the show business ever since a boy. He was a good negro comedian and an excellent clown, having served an apprenticeship under Dan Rice. His father, a well-known circus man, died at Vicksburg about two years back, but his mother, the first and divorced wife, is now living on Court street in this city. W. H. Stowe is a son of John Stowe, an old circus man, who formerly resided in South Haven, Mich. . . . Lawrence Daily Journal (Lawrence, KS), April 6, 1882, n.p.n.
At daybreak March 30 as the steamer Golden City was about to make a landing at Memphis, Tenn., a fire broke out and in less than a half an hour later, the boat sank in deep water below the head of President's Island, 200 yards from the shore. At least fifty people lost their lives. W. H. Stowe's Circus, which was taken aboard at Vidalia, La., was destined for Cairo, Ill., where the season of 1882 was to have been commences. Our Memphis correspondent says: "that W. H. Stowe and wife (Lizzie Marcellus), their two children, Bertie and Willie, and J. H. Couch, the proprietor of the sideshow, lost their lives. Among the animals and horses lost were a large lioness, a white deer, a cage of birds, a 'happy family,' a cage of monkeys, a leopard, a trick horse, a mule, three pad horses and six working horses. Six canvases and parapharnalia were also destroyed. Among those saved were Frank Stowe (a cousin of the proprietor), press agent; Burt Stowe (a brother of W. H. Stowe), equestrian director; John H. Trewalla, general agent . . . John Filbert, master of transportation; James Swift, master of horse; Prof. Ackerman, performing Broncho horses and trained dogs; Mrs. Stowe's grooms, 'Shorty" and 'Ned.' Three pad horses, a buffalo and a bear jumped overboard and swam ashore." Later - "The bodies of Mr. and Mrs. Stowe, their two children, and the proprietor of sideshow, have not yet been recovered. . . . New York Clipper, April 8, 1882, p. 42.
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Gary Strong Circus - 1979-80
• This show was on the road in 1979 & 1980. Bandwagon, January-February, 1980, p. 15; January-February, 1981, p. 10.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1978-1980
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John Strong's - 1961 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1975-1995
•Article on the John A. Strong 1961 circus is online in Bandwagon, Jul-Aug 1961 (scroll down or use find).
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Stull Bros. - 1912-13
1912:
Wanted, for Stull Bros.' Great Wagon Show, season 1912. Agent, billposters, performers in all branches; clowns; small trained animal acts suitable for wagon show, such as trained ponies, dogs, monkeys, bears; concert team that can work in big show (man and woman preferred); musical act that can double in band; band leader and musicians for big show; announcer and ticket sellers; outside attraction; privilege man (we will furnish the outfit and material); bosses in all departments; boss hostler that understands handling mules; cooks, waiters, drivers, canvasmen, chandelier men, and laboring man experienced in wagon show. This is a newly equipped show, a 12-wagon show. No parade. Only band plays up-town. Feed on lot. Sleep as you like, hotel or lot. Address Stull Bros., Beverly, Ohio. [Advertisement] Billboard, February 17, 1912, p. 23.
Stull Bros.' Show. Stull Bros., props.; C. M. Stull, mgr.; Fred Preston, treas.; Harry Stull, auditor; Clifford Seamen, general agent; L. P. Adair, local contractor; O. O'Neil, special agent; Fred Preston, contracting press agent; Ben J. Wanser, mrg. sideshow; Chas. Miller, equestrian director; Ben W. Hurlbut Jr., general supt.; Harry Miller, supt. privileges; Earnest Burchett, musical director; John c. Stull, supt. reserved seat tickets; Frank Dempsey, supt. canvas; John Grey, boss hostler; H. Miller, supt. commissary dept.; R. W. Hurlbut Sr., supt. lights; Chas. Rone, supt. properties; John Grey, supt. ring stock; Bert Davis, twenty-four hour agent; Wm. Dixon, boss carpenter; Herman Devitt, blacksmith; L. W. Stull, checker-up; L. Schell Prillis, legal adjuster; Johnny Wicks, announcer. Show opens at Beverly, O., May 4. Billboard, March 23, 1912, p. 99.
The cookhouse and dining tent of Stull Bros.' Show was erected April 3, and is being conducted by Harry Miller of Columbus, O. May 4 has been fixed as the opening date of the show. Link Rushenberg, who has signed as boss hostler, is at winter quarters at Beverly, O., exercising and shaping the stock. C. M. Stull, who has in the past been connected with the largest circuses of the country, has been active at Beverly, where he has organized and equipped his own organization, to be known as Stull Bros.' Great Show. Billboard, April 20, 1912, p. 26.
1913:
Wanted, trained animal acts, dogs and ponies, trick mule, single aerial trapeze contortionist, slack wire, ground bar act and acrobatic brother act, two cornets, trombone, baritone, 1st and 2nd violin for concert; team (man and wife) for concert that can do act in big show. We pay all after opening. Small railroad show. Opens here Decoration Day. Address Stull Bros.' Great Shows, Beverly, Ohio. [Advertisement] Billboard, May 17, 1913, p. 62.
Stull Bros.' Shows, which opened the season at Beverly, Ohio, May 30, are said to have stranded at Bellaire, Ohio, July 4, leaving the performers in straightened circumstances. Among those with the shows at the time were the Gothard Troupe, wire artists; Two La Pertos, contortionists; Dunn's Dogs and Ponies; The Alvidos, Jap jugglers; Ralph Dick, aerialist and acrobat; Lawrence and Otis, acrobats; the Hendersons, triple bar act; Johnny Wicks, clown; Ralph Wilson, clown, and Edward Rodgers, concert band. Billboard, July 19, 1913, p. 24.
1914: Show outfit must be sold at auction. Citizens Bank Co., Beverly, Ohio, will offer for sale to highest bidder, February 4, 1919, the complete show outfit formerly owned by Stull Bros., and used but a few weeks, consisting of big top, 72 round, with 38 1/2 middle and 10 ft. sidewalls; dressing tent, 16x24, with 8 ft. walls and partitions; horse tent, 30x40, with sidewalls; marquee, privilege tent and toilet tent. All canvas complete with poles, stakes, ropes, etc. Four lengths of reserved seats, with folding backs and foot rests, 7 tiers high; 14 lengths of blues, 7 tiers high; 4 Windhorst double mantle pressure lights; 3 single mantle, same make; 11 band uniforms, none used over two months. [Advertisement] Billboard, January 24, 1914, p. 70.
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Sturgis & Donovan - 1888-89
1888:
The Gran Circo Estrellas Del Nortes, of which James Sturgis and James Donovan are the proprietors, departed from this city Oct. 20, via the City of Paris, for Kingston, Jamaica. They expect to put in a season of six months among the West India Islands. The principal members are: Robert Stickney, the Jeal Sisters, James Murray, Van Auken and Long, Emma Lake, Mlle. Blanche and the Three Wilson Sisters, acrobats, whose ages range from twelve to seventeen years. A band of ten pieces will be carried and the show will exhibit under a 110ft. round top. New York Clipper, October 27, 1888, p. 524.
1889:
The Sturgis & Donovan Circus reached San Jose, Costa Rica, Christmas Eve. The management report their tour of Venezuela and South American colonies satisfactory and successful. Their prospective route lays through the Isthmus of Panama, and thence down the Atlantic Coast to the Brazils and Argentine Republic. Roster: C. J. Sturgis & Jas. Donovan, proprietors; Jas. Foster, Prof. Robt. Frank and his orchestra of eight pieces, Robt. Stickney, James Murray, Jeal Sisters, Emma Lake, Van Auken and Long . . . Prof. Roberts' troupe of dogs, Nelson Family (Robert, John, Julia, Riana and Ada), Jas. Webb, master of canvas, and Hawley and Dennis. New York Clipper, January 19, 1889, p. 723.
South America. The Sturgis & Donovan Circus played two weeks at Lima and Callao, Peru, the latter part of February. They sailed March 16 for Valparaiso. The probable route will be to the Argentine Republic. New York Clipper, May 4, 1889, p. 129.
South America. Sturgis & Donovan left Valpariso very shabbily, having only a few native people and Robert Stickney, Emma Lake and a colored contortionist called Kralle. This company has, all told, eight people, and three horses and one dog. New York Clipper, June 22, 1889, p. 238.
The public are hereby informed that the co-partnership heretofore existing between James Donovan and C. J. Sturgis, proprietors of the Great American Circus Company, has been dissolved, and will be known hereafter under the title of James Donovan & Co.'s Great American Circus. Will sail from New York for foreign ports about Oct. 25. New York Clipper, June 29, 1889, p. 267.
Sturges [sic Sturgis] and Donovan, Robert Stickey, Emma Lake, Harry Lawrence, E. Hawley and Thomas Dennis arrived from a circus tour in South America June 24. Their season closed May 4. New York Clipper, July 6, 1889, p. 273.
South America. Sturgis & Donovan were whistled out of Guayaquil, Ecuador, and fined heavily for defrauding the people by advertising as they did and giving so poor a show. When they passed the Isthmus of Panama warrants were issued to the arrest of Mr. Sturgis, but while the officers were watching for him to go by steamer to the United States, he disguised himself and escaped by the French steamer to Venezuela and thence home. James Webb, boss canvasman, who left the United States with Sturgis & Donovan, and whom they left at Calao, is at work fitting up the Pavilion Amphitheatre of Bacigalupi(?) & Parrancill, in the centre of business of Lima. New York Clipper, August 31, 1889, p. 406.
Sturgis' American Circus - 1889, 1890
1889:
Sturgis' Gran Circo Americano, sailing from New York on his third annual tour of Central and South America in October, opening positively in October in Hippodrome of Caracas, the capital of Venezuela. Building leased under my sole control. No unhealthy countries played. Isthmus of Panama will not be played. Stands will be from one to four weeks. Travel by mail steamers and rail only. Wanted, performers desiring a long engagement, not less than one year. Can't afford to close and come back on Summer visits. Am going out to stay and return via Pacific Coast to California. Wanted, one more lady rider, bar team, Spanish speaking clown, acrobats, leapers and tumblers, aerial people with lady, musical act, introducing a variety of instruments. Paid in American gold. Wanted to hear from Lottie Aymar and the Walton Bros. C. J. Sturgis. Wanted, Chandelier Bob of Barrett Show, Hawley of last Winter, and boss canvasman. Candy and refreshment privilege to let, with wines and liquors included. New York Clipper, September 21, 1889, p. 469.
C. J. Sturgis, proprietor of the Circo Americano, visited Wallace & Co.'s Show last week and purchased a half dozen of the latter's fancy and trained ring horses. Manager Sturgis will use them on his South American tour. New York Clipper, October 5, 1889, p. 505.
Sturgis' Grand Circo Americano sailed from New York Oct. 17 for South America. The company numbered thirty-eight people all told. The roster: C. J. Sturgis, proprietor and director . . . Robt. Whittaker, equestrienne director; A. Martin, treasurer . . . Wm. O' Dale, S. Whittaker, Mme. Cassello and daughter, Mrs. W. O'Dale, Lamont and O'Brien, Maude Oswald, John De Bar, John Sunders and his trained donkey. Prof. Nelsonia and his trained dogs, Lillie Le Clair . . . and Della Morse. New York Clipper, October 26, 1889, p. 551.
These people arrived at Venezuela, S.A., last week with Sturgis' Circus: C. J. Sturgis and wife, with a band of ten pieces. George Bassey, advance agent; W. Burns, programmer; C. Judd, treasurer; Robt. Whittaker, director; Mr. and Mrs. W. O'Dale, Mr. and Mrs. Maynard, Mlle. Esconsela, Maue Orewell [sic Oswald], Alice La Favere, La Petite Estelle, Frank Kenebel, De Viene Family (three in number), O'Brien and La Mont . . . Prof. West and his troupe of dogs, and J. Saunders' trick donkeys, Thomas Siegriub and Jarome left this city Oct. 30 to join them at Caracas, Venezuela. New York Clipper, November 9, 1889, p. 582.
John Saunders arrived from South America Dec. 5(?). He was one of the people who went South with the Sturgis Circus. From all accounts, it is quite probable that most of the people will arrive home next week. The show is in a dilapidated condition. Mr. Saunders informs us that the authorities at Caracas threatened to arrest everybody connected with the show if the gentlemen again appeared as lady riders. Mr. Saunders tried to get his salary through the courts, but was informed by the American Minister that he had no redress. Nelsonia and other members of the show were talking of leaving when Mr. Sturgis sailed. New York Clipper, December 14, 1889, p. 663.
Nelsonia, of Sturges' [sic Sturgis] Circus writes from Curacos, Venezuela: . . . We are now spending a couple of days at the Dutch Island of Curacos, waiting for the steamer to take us to ___ whence we will return here. Maude Oswald retired from the company at Puerto Cabello. An addition to the show has been made in the Soraki Family of Japanese, four in number, a male, female and two children. . . . New York Clipper, December 28, 1889, p. 701.
1890:
Complaints of the unprofessional treatment received by the performers who went South with Sturgis' circus continue to reach us. The latest is from Robert Whittaker, the rider. Mr. Whittaker left the show at Curacao Dec. 23(?) and was confined to his bed by illness until Jan. 11, when he left for New York. Mr. Sturgis, he claims, tried to seize his horse and trunks, but an appeal to the U. S. Counsel soon settled the matter. Mr. Whittaker's horse and trunks are now in this city [New York], but he is minus two weeks' salary. The show has not closed, and has left for Port of Spain, Trinidad Island, W. I. Business has been poor, and the people are leaving for home. There are now only thirteen people with the show, including musicians, of whom there are four, the rest having left for New York. New York Clipper, January 25, 1890, p. 759.
C. J. Sturgis, proprietor of the American Circus, now in South America, sends us a very complete and convincing refutation of the charges made against him by the Maymards(?) and John Saunders, late of his show. He has, in another column, some very frank words to say of his opponents. The members of the circus declare that salaries have been paid in full. New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 797.
A Few Facts! I sailed from New York City, Oct., 18, for South America with a circus company comprising some nineteen (19) performers. My season thus far has been a success, financially and artistically. Even my most ___ expectations have been more than realized. My company are all healthy and contented, and I have each one's ___ for salaries up to date. In organizing my company in New York I was so unfortunate as to engage a few performers whose ability and character were entirely unknown to me. My only salvation was to rid myself of them; but his I did in an honorable and manly way, as the following will prove. I am not a stranger in these countries, for this is my third trip, and I have had some of the very cream of the profession in my employ, and I challenge anyone to come forward and say a single word that would prove detrimental to my character as man or manager. The above mentioned parties were of such a calibre that I did not try to seek redress for the wrongs they did me, but let them go while in my debt. However, my attention was called to an article in a late Clipper, signed "The Marnarda," and also another signed "John Saunders(?)," which call for a plain statement. These three artist were in New York, and begged me to give them an engagement, which I did. The Maynards received their salaries and their fares home. Saunders I discharged . . . I had given him money for board. He forgets to mention these facts and also that he is now in my debt. I am very __ with these particulars, but should they try to injure my reputation I will be compelled to bring to light certain other things. Fraternally yours, C. J. Sturgis. We, the undersigned, members of Sturgis' American Circus, wish to publicly state that we are happy and healthy, and satisfied in every was with out engagement. Salaries have been paid promptly and in full, and we all join in wishing him the success he so merits. . . . Mr. and Mrs. O'Dale, Francis Kennebel, Miss Cordona, Fred O'Brien Jr., Steve La Mont, Paul Devine, Frank Devine, Rosina Venus . . . New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 798.
The Sturgis American Circus closed their season at ___, W. I., Jan. __, and sailed for an extended tour of Brazil. . . . The company have recently been reinforced by a native family of gymnasts, and are all well and in good spirits. New York Clipper, February 22, 1890, p. 829.
Notes from the Sturgis Show. Business at Martinique was big, while the people of Barbados, W. I., turned out in very small numbers. We opened in Brazil, S. A., Feb. 1(?), to immense business, which has continued ever since. We will keep on down the coast for some time, and will probably play Uruguay, Paraguay and the Argentine Republic. . . . Nobody can complain of sickness, everybody seeming to enjoy perfect health. At last accounts Donovan & Stickney were in Venezuela. New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 5.
. . . Latest advices from the Sturgis Show are that they have stranded in the interior, and everything attached." New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 357.
• C. J. Sturgis is in San Antonio, Tex., having returned from a successful tour of Mexico with his spectacular show. Mr. Sturgis is enthusiastic over Mexico, and says it is a profitable territory for shows. Billboard, April 21, 1906, p. 24.
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Sturtevant, Holland & Co.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1891.
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Suarez-Gaona Bros. National Mexican Circus, 1983
• Due to the economy in Mexico, the show tried America in 1983. Owned by the Suarez and Gaona families, the show opened as Circo Honos. Suraez at Fort Myers, Florida. After poor business in Florida, the show laid off and headed home. Bandwagon, January-February, 1984, p. 9.
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Sun Bros. - 1892-94, 1896, 1900, 1903, 1907, 1909, 1912, 1914, 1917-18
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1892-1918
1892:
Sun always shines. Wanted, for Sun Bros.' Big 10 and 20 Cent Show, under canvas, to open May 1?, at Toledo, Ohio, musical team, black face team, comedians, band of six pieces that double on stage, boss canvasman. Will buy 100 ft. round top, seats and lights. Address Gus Gun, Hennepin, Ill. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 44.
On the road, miscellaneous: George Sun's Sturgis Mich. March 30, 31, La Grange, Ind. April 1, 2, Augurn 4, 5, Warsaw 6,7, South Bend 8, 9. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 55.
Sun Bros. United Shows open at Toledo, O., May 23, for one week, after which they take the road, making three night stands at 10 and 20 cents admission. Roster: Sun Bros., proprietors and mangers; Gus Sun, general agent, with three assistatns; Geo. Sun, main door tender . . . Performers: Geo. Sun, Gus Sun . . . New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 146.
Toledo, Ohio. Sun Bros.' United Shows (two tent) will open its season here 2?, for a week.The roster: The Four Dashingtons, Jessie Lake, the Brothers Romallos, Watson(?) and Jenks, the Morans . . . Oran, the human fly, Happy Dan Stafford, the Wilsons, the Clios, Del Adelphia and Mlle. Vida . . . New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 182.
On the road, circuses: Sun Bros.' Maumee OH June 1, 2; Tontogany 3 . . . New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
On the road, circuses: Sun Bros., Ottawa OH June 8,9, Columbus Grove 10,11, Lima 13-15. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
Ed. Long and his troupe of performing dogs have been added to the Sun Bros.' Circus. Good business is reported, despite inclement weather. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 228.
Sun Brothers' Great United Shows. Rain every day, and canvas packed. Just added another __ft. middle piece, and want circus and concert people and musicians to enlarge in every department. Must do two or more turns. Will buy 100 feet of 10ft. side wall. Write or wire quick. Wapokoneta, O., June 16, 17 . . . Sidney 20, 21. Will buy 30 or 40 foot middle piece to fit 70ft. round top. Sun Bros. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 242.
Wanted, circus acts of all kinds at once. Bars, wire, trapeze, troupe of dogs and a few more musicians. Sun Bros. . . . Cummingsville, O., 13, 14, 15. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 289.
Sun Bros.' United Shows have showed two weeks of good business at Cincinnati, O., where it will remain another fortnight before taking the road. A new 40ft. middle piece and new dressing top have been secured. Herb Richards, Mrs. Irene Richards and Louise Sun were visitors last week. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
Sun Bros.' United Railroad Shows want circus people, and musicians in every branch, also concert people, those doubling in band given preference. Must do two or more turns. Long season. Grafton, W. Va., Sept. 2 and 3, Fairmont, W. Va. Sept. 5(?). Sun Bros. New York Clipper, September 3, 1892, p. 416.
John Sun, the juggler, formerly of the well known Sun Bros., has returned to the stage, after a year's retirement. He opened Sept. 5(?), at Montreal, Can. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 425.
Notes from Sun Bros.' Circus. We are in our twentieth week in Ohio, and business continues good. Everybody is in excellent health. We will close on 17. . . . Trover and Ricardo and Maurice La Belle are recent additions. New York Clipper, October 8, 1892, p. 488.
Sun Bros.' Circus close season at Toledo, O., Oct. 15. The show will be enlarged to four cars next season, and will open early in May at Toledo. They report eight weeks of rain in the Spring, but only four days of rain since. They have not missed a performance nor had any accidents or blowdowns. John Star, juggler, is playing dates East at present. Peter Sun, juggler, is with one of Healy & Bigelow's companies in Illinois. Gus Gun, juggler, formerly manager for Healy & Bigelow, is half owner of Sun Bros.' Circus, and Geo. Sun, juggler, of "Phantasma" fame, is manager and half owner of Sun Bros.' Circus. Gus Gun will go to Hot Springs, Ark., at the close of the circus season. Geo. Sun will organize his "Phantasma," which opens Nov. 12. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 507.
At liberty, bass and tuba player. G. K. Sucey, care Sun Bros. Shows, Toledo, Ohio. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 516.
1893:
The following people have signed for Sun Bros.' United Shows: . . . Gus Gun, Tony Crandell, Happy Dave Stafford, Peter Sun, Jessie Lake and George Sun. The show will open at Toledo, O. New York Clipper, January 28, 1893, p. 755.
Sun Bros.' Greatest 25 Cent Show On Earth. Season 1893 opens May 1, at Toledo, O. Want bosses in every department, circus and concert people of every description. Pepole must do two acts. Also musicians for two bands. Side show and candy stand privilege to let, share or rent. . . . Address Sun Bros., Reading, Pa., until March ?, after that Toledo, O. New York Clipper, February 25, 1893, p. 826.
Willard Stanton has singed as press agent and equestrian director of the Sun Bros.' Circus for next season. Jennie Willard, Floyd Trover . . . Lee Le Vant . . . have also been engaged. New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 832.
. . . Roster of Sun Bros.' advance brigade: First wagons, Gus Sun, contracting agent; Tony Crandall, advance agent with three assistants; Peter Sun, in charge country route with two assistants; James Carr, lithographer; John Swell programer. The advace are ten days ahead. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
Roster of Sun Bros.' United Shows. Four Sun Bros., owners; Gus Sun, advance agent with three assistants; Tony Crandell, Geo. Robinson and Chas. Ross(?) in charge of country route; Al. La Roe, advertising agent . . . Dan Stone, chandelier man . . . J. W. Jones, steward; Prof. Dickson, band leader; Albert Martin, Burt Owens, Chas. Rickard(Richard?), Ben Spedding, W. T. Rayburn, John Otis, Harry Brown, J. W. Barnes, Jessie Lake, Floyd Trover, William Trover, Robert Trover, Rexford Family . . . Robert White . . . New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 280.
On the road, circuses: Sun Bros., Steubenville OH July 7, Cadix 10. New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 281.
From Sun Bros. Circus. We are doing an excellent business and now strike the coal regions for a few weeks. . . . F. J. Cooper, cornetist, is our latest additon. Everything is running smoothly and the people are all well and happy. At Gallipolis, O., Andy Spears and wife . . . paid the show a visit. New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 362.
Wanted, circus acts and musicians. Address Sun Bros., Lancaster, Ohio, Aug. 26, Newark, Ohio, 30. New York Clipper, August 26, 1893, p. 408.
The three Bros. Rexfords left the Sun Show Aug. 20, to join Hi Henry's Minstrels. New York Clipper, September 23, 1893, p. 461.
[Ad] Band and orchestra of seven musicians, at liberty after Oct. 7. Would like to engage with specialty show or circus going south. H. H. Dickerson, care of Sun Bros.' Show, McComb, Ohio, Sept. 28 . . . Bowling Green Oct 2, Pemberville 3, Elmore 5, Toledo 6. New York Clipper, September 30, 1893, p. 488.
Notes from Sun Bros.' Circus. The Sun Bros. closed their season Sept. __, at Bowling Green, O., and it was by far the best season they have ever had. Hard times did not seem to hurt their business, and they increased their show to twice the size it was when they opened in the Spring. They have orders in now for all new canvas for 1894. They have thirty head of draught horses in pasture for next season, and they will have the largest and best equipped wagon show in Ohio. Gus Sun and Peter Sun spent a week in Chicago at the Fair. Geo. Sun and Gus Sun are now at Hot Springs and will remain there most of the winter. They expect to open a variety theatre there for the winter season. New York Clipper, October 28, 1893, p. 545.
The Sun Brothers write us that they will add a complete menagerie to their shows for the season of 1894, and will put out one of the biggest and best twenty-five cent shows on the road. The season will open as usual in Toledo, O., early in May. The have in view a grand feature new to the circus world, and hope to be the first to introduce it. New York Clipper, November 4, 1893, p. 561.
1894:
Notes from Sun Bros.' Shows. We have secured Capt. Stewart's Museum and Sideshow for next season. . . . Happy Dave Stafford, principal singing clown; Prof. Chas. white, heavyweight lifter . . . Several new wagons have been ordered. Nearly all of the paper used this season will be special. The Sun Bros. intend to make their show the leading twenty-five cent show in America. Sun Bros. make a Southern tour by rail during the months of October, November and December, which will make a long season for 1894. New York Clipper, February 10, 1894, p. 787.
C. S. Primrose has signed as general contracting agent for Sun Bros.' Greatest Twenty-five Cent Shows, which will open its season at Toledo, O., May 1. New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 817.
Notes from the Sun Bros.' Shows. Sun Bros. bought a carload of fine big draft horses last week and shipped them to their farm, near Toledo, O. New band uniforms have been ordered. All out canvas is finished and ready to go up for the first time. Our band will be strong, having only experienced palyers. Sun Bros. are negotiating for Wallace, the fighting lion . . . as a feature for their shows. New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 5.
Eggleston and Horner, knockabout comedians, have signed with Sun Bros.' Shows for next season. Mr. Horner will also do talking and singing clown. New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 5.
The Sun Bros. send the roster of their company for this season. They style their show The Sun Bros.' World's Greatest 25 Cent Shows. Sun Bros., proprietors and managers; George Sun, acting manager; John Starr, treasurer; C. S. Primrose, general contracting agent; Peter Sun, assistant and financier in advance, with six assistants; Fred Marshall, general superintendent and boss canvas man, with twelve assistants . . . W. H.(?) French, chandelier man . . . Otto Mueller, night watchman . . . Frank DeJudge, in charge of privileges; Capt. Stewart, charge of sideshow,in which he introduces rare animals, including a strong feature, the Living(?) gorilla, also magic, Punch and Judy, fire act, female Sampson, elastic skin man, fat woman and circassian. Our band will be lead by Prof. M. E. Wilson, assisted by W. W. Wilson, H. J. Wilson, Bert Fisher . . . Ernest A. King, Ed. Hicker, John Bernhard, Ed. Eggleston . . . Harry Sheets and Otto Graves. Performers: George Sun, juggler; Gus Sun, equilibristic act; Gillmore Bros., L'Echelle, contortion act and flying perch . . . Lucken Bros., double somersault brother act, flying rings and one hand balancing act; Robt. Crawford and Fred Fish, triple horizontal bars and revolving ladder; Jacob Zellers, acrobat and gymnast; Wm. Horner, knockabout clown . . . Happy Dave Stafford, singing clown; Arizona Bert, fancy and trick rifle shot. Also trained dogs, ponies and monkeys. Concert people: Eggleston and Horner, Harry Sheets, Chas. Osborne, Valora, Deonzo(?) and Violette. The show opens early in May. Every inch of canvas will be new. Also several new wagons, and the old wagons will be brightened up, and nearly all special paper used. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 21.
Frank De Judge writes us that he will leave Great Falls, Montana, in a few days for Toledo, O., to take charge of privileges with the Sun Bros.' Circus. New York Clipper, March 31, 1894, p. 53.
Notes from the Sun Bros.' Show. Geo. Sun has returned to Toledo, O., after a long trip through the South and a stay of six weeks in Chicago. Gus Sun will arrive at headquarters this week and will bring several wagons with him from the B. Reynolds Show. Superintendent Col. Fred Marshall is arranging a new pole wagon and is busy improving the brakes on all the old wagons. Peter Sun, who will do the ___ ahead, is in the West, and will arrive in time to lead the advance to its first stand out of Toledo. Sun Bros. will make a seven day stand in Toledo, but play six different locations. Our stock is looking fine; we only lost three head during the winter, two of which were lost in the storm of Feb. 12(?). Paint is being applied to seats, poles and wagons, and we will soon be ready for the bugle call with the strongest and best show we ever had together. Prof. Wilson and band of solo musicians promises the rarest of music. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68.
Notes from the Sun Bros.' Show. - Geo. Sun has returned to Toledo, O., after a long trip through the South and a stay of six weeks in Chicago. Gus Sun will arrive at headquarters this week and will bring several wagons with him from the ?. Reynolds Show. Superintendent Col. Fred Marshall is arranging a pole wagon and is busy improving the brakes on all the old wagons. Peter Sun . . . is in the West and will arrive in time to lead the advance to the first stand out of Toledo. Sun Bros. will make a seven day stand in Toledo, but play six different locations. Our stock . . . we only lost three head during the Winter, two of which were lost in the storm of Feb. 12. Paint is being applied to seats, poles and wagons, and we will soon be ready for the bugle call . . . Prof. Wilson and head of ?? musicisans promise the rarest of music. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68.
. . . Sun Bros.' Circus . . . Eddie Ward has taken the privileges. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 133.
1896:
Rays from the Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows. Main canvases are five pole menagerie and four pole big top, including all the smaller tents required. Sun Bros. will add a menagerie of eight cages of animals, one elephant and two camels. Additional baggage wagons, chariots, etc., are being built, and arrangements are being made for an electric light plant. Prof. H. Emmett, with his troup of forty horses, ponies and dogs, has been engaged. Chas. A. Cronk will have charge of the big band. A. P. Hubbell has secured the stand privileges. We will open early in May at Toledo, Ohio. New York Clipper, February 8, 1896, p. 777.
Rays from the Sun Brothers World's Progressive Shows, Museum, Menagerie, Hippodrome Wild West and Trained Animal Exhibition. The band wagon, chages, chariots and baggage wagons are painted white, running gear striped red and bodies are trimmed in gilt and aluminum, with an animal and landscape on each side. Mike Carey is the decorator. Three carloads of draught horses will be shipped in Toledo from Chicago. We also get a new shipment of animals from New York City. The following have signed: Gus Sun, general contractor and router. There will be three advance brigades ahead of show with twelve men. Peter Sun, treasurer; George Sun, acting manager; Arthur C. Haddy, equestrian director; Charles A. Cronk, bandmaster; Will J. Knott, sideshow manager; H. P. Standish, advertising and press agent in advance; Stanley De Lonzo, press agent with show and banner privileges; A. P. Hubbell, manager of stand privileges; Chas. Smith, boss canvasman; Chas. Elliott, boss hostler; Harry Shallcross, superintendent and master of transportation; Otto Muller, watchman; A. C. Romine, first cook and manager of Hotel De Sun; A. Netterfield, barber. Performers: Sun Bros., Geo. and Peter; three Hoddys, A. C., Jennie and Peter; Wm. McConkey's trained horses and troupe of dogs; Mlle. Garata, big bird act; the Comstocks, Nat and Libbie; Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Crocker, Bert Smith, Harry Albright, Roland Richards, Wilson Bros., Herb, Bert and Robert; Wilhelm, Dick Hilton, Onargo Sisters, Hary Fitz, Lorain and Gibson, Mlle. Nellie Alfredo, Gus Newton and Miss Georgiana. Musicians: Chas. A. Cronk, Fred Dariller, F. E. Staley, Thomas Moore, Bart Smith, H. J. Wilson, H. S. Bonebreak, R. L. Brown, R. H. Williams, John Leon, Wm. Lang and Chas. Teller. Show opens in Toldedo, Ohio, early in May. New York Clipper, March 28, 1896, p. 53.
1900:
Sun Brothers’ World’s Progressive Show - Season 1900 will open in Raleigh, N. C., early in April, with the finest lay out the firm has ever owned. It is really a new show, and everything the finest and best money could buy. M. J. Carey, of Toledo, O., is doing the decorating and superintending the painting of the parade wagons. he turned out duing the Winter. Chas. Elliott, in charge of the stock, has them in the pink of condition. Otto Gleiser is overhauling all the miscellaneous property, and getting it ready for the paint brush, and making necessary changes for his big new canvas. Harry McBride is on hand, who is in charge of the small animals. A. C. Baucher[?] will manage the side show. Albert Moore will be in charge of the big bill wagon in advance. Peter Sun will be general manager in advance, and has arranged to use all special paper, and will introduce some novel advertising. Three Brothers Snyder, acrobats and barrel jumpers, have signed; also the Three Ferrises, dancing barrel, breakaway ladder and baby clown act; Noorwood and Cole, triple horizontal bars; Laciede [Laclede?] Sisters, aerialists; Leo Collins, tower dives; Oscar Brewer, principal clown; Joe Kearney, A. J. Wayne, Dexter and may, Edward Kinsland, J. W. Robinson, H. C. Metsler, T. J. Martin, L. E. Pepper and many others. Otto Muller and Howard Leaber [Leaher?] are to report at an early date. The ring barn is busily engaged daily by Prof. Kain with his horses, ponies and rope walking mule. Prof. Gleiser is preparing a great dog act, and will be a feature for our show. New York Clipper, March 17, 1900.
Sun Bros. Shows. Advance staff. Pete Sun, manager; Albert Moore in charge of No. 1 wagon; Walter Epperson, No. 2 wagon; C. I [L?] Smitt, No. 3 wagon; Fred. Baver, lithographer. Billboard, May 1, 1900.
1903: See the roster of the 1903 show, online in Bandwagon, August 1944 (scroll down).
1907: The Sun Brothers World's Progressive Shows open this month at Macon, Ga. Among those engaged are Prof. Chas. Gerlack and his brass and reed band. William Tessier, up-side-down equilibrist, the Great Ostrado, sinuous marvel; George and Winnie 0'Dole, tight wire performers; William O'Dale, equestrian director; Edward Johnson, clown; Bob Cooke, concert performer, and Defio [Deflo?], in his double somersaulting the loop in an automobile. It will be interesting to note that Defio is a chimpanze; however, the act will be produced upon a mammoth scale and will be very exciting. John Sun will have a new trained animal novelty. Charles W. Gilder will have charge of the advance car. Billboard, March 2, 1907, p. 26.
1909: Sun Bros.' Worlds Progressive Show: George and Pete Sun, managers; Pete Sun, general agent; Peter H. Klotz, R. R. contractor; Clyde S. Clarke, local contractor; C. H. Andrews, special agent; Bert Wilson, checker-up; Fred Bowers, excursion agent; Clinton Newton, press agent; Dave Gillespie, manager side show; Tom Farley, supt. of props.; Wm. Greene, treasurer; Will O'Dale, equestrian director; E. H. Hraut, manager commissary dept.; Jas. Cherry, supt. of transportation; T. S. Tucker, supt. of canvas; Dick Bassett, supt. of animals; Wm. Emery, supt. of elephants; Oscar Rogers, supt. of privileges; Ernie Houghton, supt. of stock; Arthur Webber, supt. of lights. Roster advance car No. 1: Bert Moore, boss billposter; David Whellis, Jos. Teck Jr., C. H. Nillard, Fred Riley, John Wilson, Fred Cunningham, Louis Scheibel, Fred Bowers, C. H. Gourneiux and Frank Jahn, billposters; James M. Beach, head lithographer; Nowal Howard, lithographer; Earl Delmar, program man; M. E. Heldebrand, cook. Box brigade: Harry Richards and Conrad Weil. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 81.
1912: J. L. Springer, car manager with Sun Bros.' Shows, was the guest of Frank E. Butler and wife (Annie Oakley) while playing Leesburg, Fla. R. G. Piper has closed as local contractor with Sun Bros. Shows, and is spending the winter at San Angelo, Tex. James M. Beach, special agent for Sun Bros.' Shows, will winter at Macon, Ga. Billboard, December 21, 1912, p. 38.
1914: Sun Bros.' Show: Pete Sun, manager; Jas. Cherry, master mechanic; Bob Abrams, supt. of stock; John James, supt. canvas; G. W. Scott, supt. props.; Arthur E. Webber, supt. lights; Geo. Snell Jr. and H. H. Horton, blacksmiths; B. I. Neel, harness maker; Wm. F. Wallett, equestrian director. Show opens at Macon, Ga., March 28. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 49.
1917: R. B. Kellam, 24-hour agent of the Sun Bros.' Circus, was a Billboard caller while on his way to his home in Carmel, Ind. The Sun Show gave its last performance of the season at Hastings, Fla., December 29. It was originally planned to give the final show at St. Augustine, Fla., December 31, but cold weather and snow made this impossible. The outfit has returned to its winter quarters in Macon, Ga. Roy Barrett, clown and drummer, late of Sun Bros.' Show, will join the Brown & Bowers Minstrels, next season in clown alley of Barnum & Bailey Show. Billboard, January 12, 1918, pp. 29, 31.
1918:
Boss hostler Bob Abrams and boss canvasman John James, also known as John Washburn, both of the Sun Bros.' Circus, have been re-engaged for the 1918 tour. Billboard, January 19, 1918, p. 29.
Macon, Ga., Jan. 10. Work has started on the Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows. The newly arranged ring barn will be opened February 1, which will start the practicing season. The Sun Bros.' Shows terminated their twenty-sixth annual tour at St. Augustine, Fla., December 31. Season lasted thirty-nine weeks and four days. Eighteen states were visited. Mileage was 14,224 miles. Season started March 29 at Macon, Ga. Four hundred and seventy-six performances were given. Of the performers' group the Albert Powell Troupe opened at Columbia, S.C., playing vaudeville. The Morales Troupe started at Jacksonville on the U. B. O. bookings. Captain Betts and his Deep Sea Company went north, on the big time in Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Arnold have joined Mr. Betts' company for the winter. Mr. and Mrs. Frederic Crandell, equestrians, have gone to their home at Toledo, O. Bill Koplin and Austin King, arena comedians, are in Macon, rehearsing their new comic acrobatic novelty. Walter Young, producing clown, with his brother and Mrs. Young are giving special shows over the Y.M.C.A. Florida district. Bandmaster Case went to his home at Connellsville, Pa. Bob Abrams, boss hostler, left for Geneva, O. Jim Cherry, Fred Lange and other bosses will remain in Macon at quarters. Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Rogers are here for the winter, Mr. Rogers in charge of the winter depot. . . . Billboard, January 19, 1918, p. 30.
Toledo, O., Jan. 25. Mr. and Mrs. Fred Crandell have arrived home after a season with the Sun Bros.' Show. They are re-engaged for the coming season. Billboard, February 2, 1918, p. 32.
Macon, Ga., Feb. 23. The Sun Bros.' Circus inaugural stand will be at Macon. In the gymnasium building the Morales Troupe, the Niblo Sisters, Billy Niblo, Miss Ashton and Dick Ashton are lumbering up daily. The Albert Powell Troupe of double wire runners are among the latest bookings. Chas. Hilderra, comique acrobat, after an absence of several seasons, will make his reappearance. Frederic and Marguertie Crandell, equestrians, will offer new riding acts. D. J. King will again handle the cookhouse and will again have as his principal chef William Bailey. The annex and supplementary shows will be under the management of George Oram. Nellie King Oram, queen of music; Mlle. Thurston, mind reader; Alex Jackson's ragtime jazz band and Dick Thompson, Yankee Whittler, are already booked. Captain John Cardona, animal trainer, is expected back early in March. John James, master of canvas, is soon due at quarters. Bob Abrams of the equine department is at his home in Geneva, O. Mack Kellam, 24-hour agent, is at Carmel, Ind. - N. M. C. Billboard, March 2, 1918, p. 28.
Tracey Andrews, clown, is booked with the Sun Show for the 1918 tour, which opens at Macon, Ga., the first week in April. James A. Norman is the new band master with the Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows for the coming season. He is spending the winter at Tampa, Fla. Alan Parsell, bannerman of the Sun Bros.' Circus last season, has enlisted in the army, stationed at San Diego, Cal. Billboard, March 9, 1918, pp. 29, 33, 37.
Captain C. H. Betts' act, The World's Smartest Seals, is re-engaged with Sun Bros.' World's Progressive Shows, opening at Macon, Ga., early in April. Bookings for the advance foreces of the Sun Show are Mike Fagin, boss billposter; Adele Lois Pixley, press agent; Harry Taylor, secretary; Clyde H. Ingle, general advertiser, and John Hayes, billposter. Winter quarters, 1918, Sun Bros.' Circus. Pete Sun, manager; Macon, Ga. Billboard, March 23, 1918, pp. 66, 124.
Sun Bros.' Circus will open April 9 and 10 at Macon, Ga., at Central City Park. Car manager Tom Dransfield and his crew of advertisers have billed the town and surrounding country. George Wombold, boss canvasman; Geo. Daly, assistant boss canvasman, and Curly Adams, boss canvasman, will handle the big top. Bob Abrams is director of stock. Prof. Jimmy A. Norman's band and orchestra is hard at work. Billboard, April 13, 1918, p. 28.
Sun Bros.' Circus opened at Macon, Ga., April 9. The customary street parade was dispensed with, the show following its rule of entirely eliminating the pageantry. Instead, a number of free attractions were given on the show grounds. A troupe of Indians are a big feature in the outdoor free offerings. They present war dances and lariat rope exercises. Master Niblo presented a teeth descent, and Barry Green, a grotesque juggler of big objects was the other free feature. George Oram is director of this department. The annex has the following: Mlle. Nellie King Oram, musical artiste, including a una-fon display; Chief Show-in-the-Face and Sons, Indian specialties; Captain Cardona, untamable lion act; Cheewa and his boxing kangaroo; Chevalier Boulierre, French tattooed marvel; Prof. J. J. Vox, ventriloquist; Helena Ashby, physical culture, and Prof. Alex Jackson's Original Mobile Ragtime Jazz Band, including a quartet of singing and dancing comedians.
M. B. Fing, ticket seller with the Sun Bros. Circus, has severed his connection with that attraction and is at his home in Chicago. Kenneth R. Waite, clown, late of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows, joined the Sun Bros. Circus after the close of the former. Billboard, October 19, 1918, p. 27.
Mike Fagan arrived home at Shelbyville, Ill., after his fifth season with the advance of the Sun Bros. Circus. The car closed at Macon, Ga., October 12, on account of the "flu." Al Deon, menage rider with the Sun Bros. Circus, last week playing Atlanta, Ga., makes them take notice with his high-school horse, "Virginia." Billboard, October 26, 1918, p. 27.
Pete Sun, manager of Sun Bros.' Shows, has decided to retire from the circus business and is offering his show for sale. The show is a nine-car outfit, now stored at the Southeastern Fair Grounds, Atlanta, Ga. Billboard, October 26, 1918, p. 55.
Sun Bros. Shows, founded 27 years ago by the Sun Brothers, and built up from a small outfit to its current size, has played its last performance under Sun Bros. management, and the entire outfit is being sold at the Fair Grounds, Atlanta, Ga., by manager Pete Sun. After the show property is disposed of, Pete Sun will return to his home in Cincinnati. Billboard, November 9, 1918, p. 26.
• An article on the Sun Bros. show and the Sun family is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 3, pp. 4-21.
• Note: This show or people might be found on other pages on this website. Check out Billboard, Clipper, and/or do a Search
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or the persons.
Sunbrock's Big Top Circus
• Information on the 1943 Larry Sunbrock's show is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 2, pp. 14-21.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or the persons.
Super Circus - 1992 (Canada)
Produced by Marc Verreault and Sylvie Gladve, the show traveled in Quebec in May and June. Bandwagon, January-February, 1993, p. 16.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1992-97, 2000, Marc Varreault, owner.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or the persons.
Super Circus International - 1983
• Al and Shirley Stencell's three-ring circus played Canada in 1883. Bandwagon, January-February, 1984, p. 9.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or the persons.
Sutton's - 1888, 1890-93 (various titles)
1888:
Wanted, B flat cornetist for band and orchestra. - John H. Maloney, care of Sutton, Taylor & Talbot's Circus. Fairfield, Ia., June 29, Washington, Ia., June 30, Columbus Junction, Ia., July 2, Muscatine, Ia., July 3 and 4. New York Clipper, June 30, 1888, p. 256.
Wanted, performers in all branches of circus profession by the New Model Shows, also musicians. Address Dick P. Sutton, Ottumwa, Iowa. New York Clipper, June 30, 1888, p. 256.
Band, H. Wolf, Ia., just closed with Dick Sutton's Model Railroad Shows. New York Clipper, September 29, 1888, p. 470.
1890:
Sutton's New Model R. R. Shows. Wanted, performers in every branch except riders, a strong bar team, who can do double trapeze, specialty people for concert, people who do two turns and double on brass preferred; leader and musicians. . . . Dick P. Sutton, Ottumwa, Ia. For sale cheap, Pullman sleeper, baggage car and complete circus outfit. New York Clipper, March 8, 1890, p. 863.
Ottumwa, Iowa. James Myers, trapezist, will go with Dick P. Sutton's "U. T. C." Canvas Show. New York Clipper, March 29, 1890, p. 38.
Wanted, for Richard's 3 Big Shows. A good bar team, who do a good Brother act and go in leaps and tumble. Also, other good, strong circus acts. Dick P. Sutton, Ottumwa, Iowa. Would like to hear from the Sexton Brothers. New York Clipper, April 19, 1890, p. 93.
Wanted to buy, a medium sized elephant, two good camels, six or eight light two horse cages, with or without animals, sideshow painting and other good circus and menagerie property. Address Dick P. Sutton, ___ Hotel, Ottumwa, Iowa. Have good 50ft. baggage car for sale or exchange for circus property. New York Clipper, September 20, 1890, p. 444.
Wanted, for Dick's New Model Circus, Museum and Menagerie. Season opens at Ottumwa, Iowa, April __, good circus people in all branches; a good rider, who has his own stock preferred, one who can do Pete Jenkins and Indian act; side show freaks and good concert people. Address Dick P. Sutton, Ottumwa, Iowa. Wanted, to hear from Sexton Bros., Morris Cathcart, Mariette Bros., Sam Bennett . . . and Grothe the juggler. New York Clipper, September 20, 1890, p. 444.
The Cathcarts, ___ and Jessie, are touring the South with the O'Brien, French(?) & De Arley Railroad Circus. The team have signed with Dick Sutton's Circus for next season. New York Clipper, October 11, 1890, 487.
1891:
Wanted, for Dick's Model Circus, Museum, Menagerie, Oriental Village and American Horse Fair, a good singing clown, one that can do a good single turn. A good, strong novelty for sideshow. Band leader and musicians, a man to ride Pete Jenkins, hurdle, sailor or Indian, and a good bar team that can do good single turns and brother act. Show opens April __. All people engaged report to Ottamwa not later than April __. For sale, good baggage car __ft. long, has carried sixty thousands pounds in last three seasons. I ask six hundred; will grab at four if takes quick. Come and get it. Address, Dick P. Sutton, Ottamwa, Iowa. New York Clipper, April 4, 1891, p. 72.
Frank B. Hubin, late lecturer at Kohl & Middleton's Museum, Minneapolis, Minn., leaves there in a few days to travel this season with Sutton's Big Show as sideshow manager. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 76.
Ottumwa, Iowa. Dick P. Sutton, proprietor and manager of Sutton's Big Circus, is here (his home) and will open his tenting season here 27, 28. He will have a much larger aggregation than ever before. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 116.
The Edgerton Sisters, aerialists, have signed with Dick Sutton's Circus. George Edgerton has also been engaged as equestrian director and business manager with the same show. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 135.
Sutton’s Circus opened its season at Ottumwa, Ia. April 27, 28 to a crowded canvas. George Edgerton manages the ring and the Edgerton Sisters (trapeze performers) are the features. The others are: Stowe Brothers, Retlaw and Alton, Kennedy (human bridge) and Epwell’s educated horses. Frank Hubin presides over the annex. He also makes the announcements in the circus. Roster of the annex: Prof. Tostell, illusionist; Capt. McIntosh (tattooed man) and his tattooed dog, Hi Ki (Zulu Warrior) and Mme. Zelha (mind reader). New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150.
J. W. Harpstrite, one of the proprietors of Sutton's "U. T. C." Co., and also of Dick's Model Circus, was quietly married at Ottumwa, Ill., April 14, to Lillie Coleman, of Peoria, Ill. The bride is well known in the profession, and has been with Sutton's "U. T. C." Co. for the past three season. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 152.
Roster of Dick’s New Model Circus and Menagerie, which opened at Ottumwa, Ia., April 27: Dick P. Sutton, proprietor and manager; George Edgerton, assistant manager and equestrian director; C. C. Harpstrite, treasurer; J. W. Harpstrite, advance agent, with seven assistants; H. Blocker, leader of band; Herman Rohrs, leader of orchestra; James Norris, boss canvasman; Lee Henis, boss hostler; Ratlaw and Alton, Slackey, Ratiow, J. Roper, Cunningham and Lamont, Ellis Edwards, Stone Bros., Edgerton Sisters, Prof. Kennady, Thomas and Shrole(Shroie?), Prof. Jones, and Prof Bolstead, performers. Frank B. Hubin, manager sideshow; Capt. D. M. McIntosh, Prof. Fostello, Lillie De Vear, Thomas Eaton, Minnie Moore, Dot Eastman, Maurice Cathcart and others. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 169.
On the road, circuses: Dick Sutton's, Marshalltown, Ia. June 2. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
Wanted for Dick's Circus and menagerie, 5 good sober billposters. Wagon show. J. W. Harpstrite, Marshalltown, Ia. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 225.
Frank B. Hubin is managing the sideshow with Dick's Circus. The following people are with him: Capt. McIntosh, tattooed man . . . Prof. Hubin (Punch and Judy and magic) . . . an elephant, camels and ponies. New York Clipper, June 20, 1891, p. 249.
Notes from Dick's Circus. We are now in our ninth week, and have had a prosperous season, but the roads have been something terrible. Our first blow down of the season occurred at Ogden, Ia. Everything went down just as the afternoon show was about to take place, but we hustled and gave a performance to big business. Everybody is well, and the spectre in white walks weekly. Our performers: Retlaw and Alton, Stone Bros., Cunningham and Moncayo, Prof. J. W. Kennedy, Lula Moncayo and Prof. Meyer's school of educated horses. Our sideshow is run by Senator Frank B. Hubin, with the following people: Capt. McIntosh (tattooed man), Mlle. Jento (snake charmer), Sig. Lewisden(?) (strong man), Jubilee singers and Prof. Hubin's Punch and magic. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 296.
Marshalltown, Iowa. Dick Sutton's Circus comes July 11. King & Franklin's 17(?). New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 300.
On the road, circuses: Sutton's, Oskaloosa, Ia. July 11. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 301.
Notes from Dick's Circus. Business has been satisfactory since our opening. The company includes Retlaw and Alton . . . the Moncayos, Stone Bros., Ed. Cunningham and Kennedy. Prof. Blocker leads the band of eight pieces, while Frank B. Hubin manages the sideshow, which includes Capt. McIntosh . . . Jenta and Prof. Hubin's Punch and Judy. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 312.
From Dick's Circus. We are now working our way Southward, and in a few days will be in the state of Illinois. Business continues to be good. Slackey and Prof. Kennedy closed July 8, Mrs. Moncayo joined 18. The season will close about Oct. 15. Frank B. Hubin remains in charge of the sideshow, all reports to the contrary notwithstanding. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
Notes from Dick's Model Circus. We are now in our seventeenth week, and business has been good ever since we opened. Everybody has received his money every week. We are now in Illinois. Prof. W. W. Jones, the balloonist, joined us lately, and has already made twenty ascensions. We have the following performers: Retlaw and Alton, Eddie Cunningham, the Three Moncayos, Little Maudie Sutton, Al. White, the Two Stone Bros. and John Meyers' school of educated horses. Our sideshow is run by Senator Frank B. Hubin, with the following people: Mille Jenna (snake enchantress), Midget Pony . . . and Prof. Hubins (Punch and magic). Will H. Retlaw is principal clown, and is always well received. His wife (Annie Girard), has been visiting the show. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 416.
F. S.(?) Moncayo and his wife and daughter are with Dick's Circus. New York Clipper, September 19, 1891, p. 469.
Frank B. Hubin, sideshow manager, closes with Dick's Circus Sept. 2?, and joins the Van Amburgh Show. New York Clipper, September 26, 1891, p. 484.
J. ? Myers and Al. White are now traveling with Dick's Big Twenty-five Circus, join Sutton's Monster "Uncle Tom's Cabin" Oct. _. New York Clipper, September 26, 1891, p. 484.
Notes from Dick's Circus. After twenty-two weeks we close a high successful and prosperous season at Amboy, Ill., Sept. 26. The following people will go with Sutton's "Uncle Tom's" Show: John Myer, Hans Blocker and Frank Townsend, while Rentlaw and Alton will play dates, also the Stone Bros., the Moncayos and Eddie Cunningham, with our hustling side show manager, Frank B. Hubin, will join the Van Amburgh Shows. New York Clipper, September 26, 1891, p. 484.
Dick's Model Show closed their season at Amboy, Ill. Sept. 26. The tour is said to have been a prosperous one. Prof. Harry Streif(?), the balloonist has made twenty-one successful ascensions, which is said to beat the record for one season. He will play dates the balance of the season. The ohters of the show went their several ways. The Stone Bros. started for Denver, the Moncayos to Chicago . . . New York Clipper, October 10, 1891, p. 518.
1892:
Plamondon, wire walker with the Richards Circus, dislocated his right shoulder through an accidental fall from a high wire at Three Oaks, Mich., May 5(?). New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.
Richard's Big Show began their tour at Michigan City, Ind., May 5, to reported good business. The roster: Dick P. Sutton, proprietor and manager; John Harpstrite, business agent; Harry Costello, equestrian director; Chancy Powell, Johnson Reed, P. Lemonda, and John Myer's trained ponies and horses. Our side show is run by Frank B. Hubin, which includes Millie Hubin, Prof. Jones, flying machines, monkeys, birds, sacred donkey; Prof. Hubin's Punch and trained birds. Our canvas is a 100ft. round top, with a 40ft. middle piece; side 70ft. obling with a big front. Prof. Jones makes daily balloon ascentions. Our band of twelve pieces is under the direction of Hans Blocker, while Frank B. Hubin runs all the privileges. Our concert is under charge of James Fields, and includes Mr. Graham, Sutton Sisters - Maude and Blache - Millie Hubin, Jim Fields and the Graham Sisters. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.
Notes from Richards' Three Big Shows. We are still sailing along on the smooth waves of prosperity, though the rain has been something terrible. We have not missed a stand as yet, and everybody is well and happy. Our performers are Harry Costello, Louis Plomdon, Chancey Powell, the monkey man; W. M. Johnson, Frank Lovine, James Fields, John Myers and his school of highly educated horses. Our concert is in charge of Jim Fields and includes the Sutton Sistrs, Graham Sisters . . . Millie Hubin, R. Graham, Jim Fields and jubilee singers. Our sideshow and all privileges are run by Frank B. Hubin, with six assistants; Millie Hubin, circassian snake charmer; Levine, glass eater; Prof. Jones' flying ship; Prof. Hubin's magic and trained monkey and birds; while Hans Blocker leads our band of twelve pieces. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 194.
Frank B. Hubin has the sideshow and candy stand privileges with Richards' three big shows, making his second season with them. He has six assistants, and the sideshow includes Frank B. Hubin, manager and lecturer; Millie Hubin, circassian snake charmer, with her den of snakes; Colonel Grant, Prof. Hubin's trained monkey, sacred donkey and trained birds, ten in number; also magic and Punch and Judy. . . . New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
Frank B. Hubin, sideshow manager with Richards' Show, received a large boa constrictor, a trained monkey and some small animals last week, for his sideshow. He reports good business with the Richards Circus. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 308.
The Hubins, Frank and Millie, are still with the Richards Circus. This winter they will tour the East with several novelties, in conjunction with their Congress of Wonders and European Museum. New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 372.
1893:
Wanted, for Richard's 3 Big Shows. To buy small troupe of well broke dogs, performing goats, monkeys, donkeys and ponies, sixty foot combination car, eighty foot top with middle pieces, lights, side show top with wall. Want man and wife to run side show and privileges, except games of chance, must furnish snakes, birds, monks, Punch, magic, circassian and paintings. Want to hear from Jack Myers, Louis Plamondon, Jennier Family, Monkey Powell, Burton, the dog man . . . Jim Norris, . . . musicians, trap drummer. Want bar team, will engage any good, novel act; want two good balloons, hot air. Show opens on or about May 4. Travel by rail, sleep in beds, eat at the table, salary once a week. . . . Dick P. Sutton. New York Clipper, January 21, 1893, p. 745.
Gus Henderson, equilibrist, has signed with the Richards Three Big Shows. New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 832.
Richards' Three Big Shows opened their season at Burlington, Ia., May 9. The roster: D. P. Sutton and J. W. Harpstrite, proprietors and managers; S. P. Bowman, side show manager and lecturer; E. C. Davis, in charge of advance. Performers: Joe Parson, Clarinda Lowando, Harry Lamkins, John Sexton, Bennie Sexton, W. S. Gilbert . . . Harry Strief, Harry McDonnald, R.A. Graham . . . Dick Thomas, Chas. Wilson, Hans(?) Blocker, John Marshall, S. M. Laporte, Frank Townsend, S. V. Downs, Thos. Marshall, W. G.(?) Freeland, James Carter, Mrs. Sutton, Mrs. Harpstrite, Mrs. S. P. Bowman, Mrs. Harry McDonnald, Mrs. Joe Parsons, Maude Sutton, Edna Graham, Lillie Graham and Gracie Warren. Harry Strief and Millie Bertha are the outside attractions in their double balloon ascensions and parachute jumps, while Gracie Warrn and her bear dog Jack are the features in the concert. The show carried thirty-five head of stock. The big top is 90(?)ft., with two 40ft. middle pieces. The side show is __ft., with one 30ft. middle piece. The show travels by rail on five cars. They are headed for the Pacific Coast. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
On the road, circuses: Richards', . . . Detroit MN June 6, Moorehead 7 . . . Castleton ND 9, Valley City 10. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
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Sutton Bros. - 1908 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1908
Peru, Indiana. The Sutton Brothers' Combined Shows will take to the road about the first of May. Ross Woodring, a prominent young newspaper man of that city, and Charles Alderfer, an experienced showman, are at the head of the enterprise. They will carry about fifteen wagons and will tour the Central States, going South in the Fall, provided the cotton crop is good. Billboard, February 1, 1908, p. 22.
Sutton Bros.' Combined Shows. Wanted for season 1908. Wagon Show. People for every department. Would like to hear from strong cornetist, good band and other musicians. Performers of all kinds who do two or more acts. Strong outside attraction with light rigging. Would like strong Sister Team, with ground acts; singing and talking clown. Sideshow people and workmen for all departments. All legitimate privileges for sale. Address Sutton Bros.' Combined Shows, Peru, Indiana, or Charles Alderfer, Denver, Indiana. Billboard, February 22, 1908, p. 18.
Sutton Bros. Circus closed its season at Peru, Indiana, 26. While it is announced as only temporary, no future plans have been given out. New York Clipper, August 8, 1908, p. 642.
Sale of circus property. Wagons, tent poles, horses, cooking utensils, properties, etc., of the Sutton Bros.' Wagon Show. Auction at Peru, Indiana, August 22. No cages. Unless sold at private sale before above date, a troupe of performing goats and dogs and a small wagon cage with 3 monkeys will be sold at the same time. A. L. Bodurtha, assignee. Billboard, August 22, 1908, p. 24.
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Sutton & Jackson - 1896
Sutton & Jackson's Great Combined Shows open at Wheeling, West Virginia, May 11. H. S. Sutton and A. Jackson, proprietors and managers; E. Hughes, equestrian director; band of eight pieces led by Master Georgie Hughes, nine year old cornetist. Performers: the Yost Bros., triple bar and brothers act; Chas. Church, bounding rope and swinging perch; the Sultans, Harry and ___, Mexican ladder; Maggie Hughes, contortion . . . Marie Hughes, single traps; Perry Sisters, double trapeze; the Dale Sisters, five in number, Roman ladder and ground and lofty tumbling; H. N. Sutton, knockabout talking and singing clown. Concert: W. F. Preble and wife, Andrew and Lizzie Jackson, Baby Hughes, Chas. and Katie Sutton. Jasper Johnson, in charge of canvas with six assistants, and W. Travis, in charge of cookhouse with two assistants. Show travels by wagon. New York Clipper, May 16, 1896, p. 167.
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Swan Bros. Circus - 1975, 1980, 1983-86, 1995
1975: This new show made its debut in in California in 1975. Bandwagon, January-February, 1976, p. 24.
In 1975 the show played fairs, shopping centers and schools. Owners were Andy and Mike Swan. Circus Report, March 8, 1976, p. 4.
1980: The show played California, July-September. Bandwagon, January-February, 1981, p. 15.
1983: Swan Bros. Circus played California fairs and festivals in 1983. Bandwagon, January-February, 1984, p. 13.
1984: The show played California fairs under canvas. Bandwagon, January-February, 1985, p. 11.
1985: Andy and Mike Swan of Sacramento again played fairs and malls in California with their Swan Bros. show. Bandwagon, January-February, 1986, p. 13.
1986: The show played small fairs and festivals in California from April through December. Bandwagon, January-February, 1987, p. 12.
1995: Swan Bros. exhibited in California and Nevada at least from May to August. Andy and Mike Swan put on the entire performance under a small big top. Bandwagon, March-April, 1996, p. 16.
1996: Mike and Andy Swan toured their show in California, Oregon and Nevada in 1996. Bandwagon, March-April, 1997, p. 18.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1982-1993, 1999, Swan family, owners.
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Swift Bros., Jack Swift Show - 1906-07, 1913-14
1906: The Swift Brothers' No. 2 Show of animal actors opens the season at Golden Gate, Illinois, April 14, under the management of Jack Swift. Educated domestic animals will be featured. H. C. Haverstack has charge of the band of eight pieces. Roster: Mrs. Jack Swift, treasurer; Roy Hodge, agent; Dean Herbert Swift, rider; Roy Williams, boss canvasman; Lath. Harrison, in charge of stock; Roy Smith, cook, and Harry Melvin, privileges. Swift Brothers' Dramatic Show No. 1 opened under canvas April 7, under management of Herbert Swift. The show plays two day stands and feature a dog and pony show in the sideshow. . . . Billboard, April 14, 1906, p. 32.
1907:
Swift Brothers' Show No. 1 has moved from Clarendon to more commodious winter quarters at Brinkley, Arkansas. Billboard, February 16, 1907, p. 26.
The Illinois oil fields are giving up the "dough" to the Swift Brothers' Shows. Ray Hodge has charge of the advance, and Prof. Raymond Cook is band director. Others are Buster Johnson, in charge of stock; N. Sholder, care of tents; Roy Scott, steward, and Henry Warnicks, cook. Les Geanlesy joined at Robinson, Illinois, and is featured in the band. Billboard, June 22, 1907, p. 23.
1913: Jack Swift's Shows - Jack Swift, proprietor and manager; Mrs. Jack Swift, treasurer; Miss Bertha Swift, secretary; Billie Maloney, auditor; Arthur Adair, general agent; N. B. Luther, contracting press agent; J. A. Wardlaw, general superintendent; Deon Swift, superintendent privileges; Jas. Bader, musical director; Miss Bertha Swift, superintendent reserved seat tickets; John Andrews, superintendent canvas; Chas. Smith, boss hostler; Wm. Maloney, superintendent commissary department; Fred Baker, superintendent lights; Kneth Knapp, superintendent props; Chas. Smith, superintendent stock; John Andrews, superintendent working crew; Frank Tomas, legal adjuster. Show opens at Casey, Ill., about April 18. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
1914: Jack Swift Show. Jack Swift, proprietor & manager; Mrs. Jack Swift, treasurer; Reitha Swift, secretary; N. B. Luther, general agent; Harry Barry, local contractor; R. E. Swift, special agent; E. V. Hankins, press agent back with show; Dewey Porter, general supt.; Deon Swift, supt. privileges; Lee Carr, musical director; Reitha Swift, supt. reserved seat tickets; K. Knapp, supt. canvas; Anton Federle, boss hostler; Wm. Maloney, supt. commissary dept. Show opens at Casey, Illinois. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 49.
• In 1898 Jack Swift and his brothers Herb, Omar and Ralph, organized their show in Effingham, Illinois and trouped together until 1903 when the Swift Bros. show was dissolved. Jack then started a dog & pony show that was out until 1935, when he retired. Jack died ca. 1946, age 71. Jack and his wife lived in Danville, Illinois. White Tops, July-August, 1947, Vol. 20, Nos. 7-8, p. 8.
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Omar Swift - 1916
Wanted, Omar Swift Shows. Lady performers doing two or more circus acts, rolling globe, traps or rings. Can use horizontal bar performer. Workingmen, camp cook, boss hostler and canvasmen. Wagon show. O. J. Swift, E. Main St., Danville, Illinois. Billboard, April 29, 1916, p. 23.
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Circus Szedt - 1912 (South America)
This circus is touring South America. Luis Ducci, manager; Emil Szedt, director. Equestrians: Mlle. Gusta von Botoni, R. von Milanovies; the Five Jerinthos Sisters; Miss Hilda and Mr. Powell, and Hildo Miniggio. "The Mail Coach" is a big equestrian act. The bill also includes: Mr. Danny, Little Tich, Miss Ella, Miss Bebedorf and Herrn Schwars, Szedt and Walter, Max Nelson, John Leon, Ozti Bros., Blitz Trio, the Deals(?), the Seven Oscariens, the Yumazettys, Master Alfonso, Mlle. Gabriele Guy, Claire Goudart, the Darkmar Troupe, the Four Riegos. The ballet troupe of thirty-six dancers is headed by Adeline Gillon. New York Clipper, August 24, 1912, p. 16.
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Talbot's "Fighting the Flames" Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1906
Frank Tate, partner in the Hagenbeck circus, and John Talbot, a circus fixer, put out this fire show in 1906. Bandwagon, May-June, 1973, p. 27.
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Tanner Bros. - 1902-03 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1903
1902: Notes from Tanner Brothers' great united railroad shows: "We are located in our usual winter quarters [Lincoln, Nebraska]. Out past season has been the most successful in the history of our show. Our shows will be greatly enlarged next year; Col. Dick Tanner's trained animals will be presened in Ring No. 1 and some of the best circus talent in America will be seen in Ring No. 2 and also on our elevated stage. Five new cages will be added to our parade and our band will be elaborately uniformed and will be a special feature of our shows. Our side show will be operated by Mr. J. C. Jerome with a band of eight pieces. Billboard, December 13, 1902, p. 13.
1903:
Notes from Tanner Brothers Great United Railroad Shows; Col. Dick Tanner has just finished training a wonderful animal act; one of the greatest dog and pony riding acts. Besides this act, he has under training several other acts. The special scenery for the production of Faust is completed. Mr. Walter E. Dewey is busy with the electrical effects and wardrobe for the same. Mr. Carlyle R. Dean is contracting musicians for his clown band. The Great Martino will be one of our aerial features; also the Brothers Silverlake, aerial gymnasts. Prof. Julie Telssedre will direct our big show band. John TAnner will have charge of the ticket wagon same as last year. Miss Rose Vinton, last season with Tanner Brothers, left Jan. 21 for St. Louis to visit relatives for a month. Billboard, February 7, 1903, p. 15.
Notes from Tanner Brothers' Great United Railroad Shows: Col. Dick Tanner has just returned from a trip over a portion of our territory for the coming season and reports that all is clear sailing for the "big show." Our new band wagon has arrived and some animals are due to reach us this week. Our World's Colossal Museum under the personal directrion of Harry Dickinson will be one of the largest and best equipped side shows ever operated in the West. Mr. J. St. Belmo will have charge of our canvas and is now at winter quarters assisting in all things. Billboard, March 21, 1903, p. 13.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, C. F. Rhodes, manager, 1903.
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Circo Tatali - 1913
The Lorretta Twins family are in Venezuela with the Tatal Tatali Circus. Variety, January 17, 1913, p. 9.
Caracas, Venezuela, Jan. 2. Peter W. Barlow and his newly organized circus, which left New York Oct. 23 last, opened with Circo Tatali at San Juan, Nov. 1. Barlow remained on the island three weeks and then came to this place. In the company are Ouika Meers, Melrose and Meers, the Newsomes, Blush Family, Loretta Twins, George Novikoff, George Meers, Ben and Josie Dunham, Mr. Tyler, Luciana Trio, Anita and Joseph Mansanero and the Barlows. Variety, January 17, 1913, p. 5.
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F. J. Taylor's - 1889, 1890-94, 1900 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1886-1894, 1925
1889:
Following is the roster of F. J. Taylor’s Great American Circus, Museum and Menagerie, 1889: F. J. Taylor, proprietor and manager; Dick Hunter, general business manager in advance; Wm. Hyatt and six assistants, billposters; Walt McCafferty, Chas. A. Taylor, Dan McKenzia, Chas. Howett equestrian director, with the following people in the dressing room: F. Rollins and son, J. W. Moore and wife, John Nelson and wife, Bishop Bros., Frank Elliot, Fred Wilson, Mrs. Kate Howett, Frank Nichols, Ed. Dupray, George Francis . . . Sideshow - W. H. Wren, Geo. Wren, Miss Wren, Spotted Ed. and wife, Ed. Lapell, . . . F. J. Royce, boss canvasman, with eleven assistants; J. Kiley, boss hostler, with twelve assistants; Mr. Horton, with four assistants, properties; Mrs. Setchell, wardrobe lady, and Chas. Miller and five assistants, in the cook tent. The show travels by wagon, has one hundred horses and everything new, an 80 ft. top with two 30 ft. middle pieces, menagerie top, and a 76 x 40 ft. sideshow canvas. It starts April 30 and travels through Missouri, Kansas and Kentucky. New York Clipper, April 27, 1889.
"Down in Front!" was the cry at ex-Mayor Taylor's circus last week. On Tuesday last Creston's own and only circus was cut loose. . . . On Wednesday the show went to Afton, . . . The Afton Reporter has this to say: F. J. Taylor's circus, menagerie and museum arrived from Creston at an early hour this morning and have their tents pitched on the old show grounds in the south part of town. The parade took place as advertised at 12:30 o'clock and was a fine display. The band is good and everything indicates that Mr. Taylor fully understands his position as manager. . . . One feature indicative of a first class institution is the fine horses accompanying this show. New Era (Humeston, IA), September 18, 1889. F. J. Taylor’s winter quarters in Creston, Ia. . . . New York Dramatic News, January 13, 1891.
1890:
F. J. Taylor’s Great American Circus, Museum and Menagerie open their season April __, at Creston, Ia. Following is the roster: F. J. Taylor, Chas. Taylor, Bertie(?) Taylor, Walt. McCafferty . . . Dick Hunter, general advance agent . . . Jno. Nelson and wife, W. E. Rolland . . . Jno. Ruth, Sig. Harris, C. P. Watson, Maj. Fred Wilson, Fred Harris . . . G. W. Young . . . Y. C. Westland . . . J. J. Cooke master of canvas with twelve assistants, and Geo.(?) Rickett boss hostler with twenty grooms and drivers. The show is enlarged to twice its former size, and everything is new. New York Clipper, April 19, 1890, p. 91.
The Farnum Bros., who were seriously injured by a fall while doing their specialty with F. J. Taylor’s Great American Circus at Rising City, Neb., June 28, are now convalescent at their homes, Pawtucket. James sustained a severe injury to the spinal chord and Richard had one of the smaller bones of his left hand broken. They hope to be able to take the road again in November. Richard’s wife, Josie Farnum, is still with the show. New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 357.
Wanted, side show privilege with reliable show going South. Have complete outfit, and can furnish riding monkey for big show and two good turns for concert. Salary or percentage. Address W. H. Rehn, care of F. J. Taylor’s Circus, Creston, Iowa. New York Clipper, August 30, 1890, p. 396.
The F. J. Taylor Show closed a successful season at Greenfield, Ia., Oct. 11(?). Everybody was well pleased, and the man in white appeared regularly. New York Clipper, November 1, 1890, 539.
W. S. Wheeler has signed with Taylor’s Circus and Menagerie for next season. New York Clipper, December 27, 1890, p. 661.
1891:
The Three Costello Bros., acrobats, and Winnie Costello, aerialist, are successfully playing [the] Pacific Coast Circuit. They will return East in April, to go out with F. J. Taylor’s Great American Circus. New York Clipper, January 3, 1891, p. 676.
F. J. Taylor’s Circus, Museum and Menagerie. Wanted, 10 musicians, __ billposters, boss hostler, __ good four horse drivers, chandelier man, two animal men, one or two freaks, good snare drummer that can do two turns in concert. Musicians address Marshall Bros., Portage, Wis. Tommy Nichols and George Ricket, write. F. J. Taylor, Creston, Iowa. New York Clipper, January 31, 1891, p. 750.
Minnie Castello, of the Castello Family, left Portland, Ore., Feb. 23, for a short visit to her home, Bay City, Mich. Later she will join her husband, Wm. Castello, at Creston, Ia., where the family open with F. J. Taylor’s Great American Circus, April 23. New York Clipper, March 7, 1891, p. 826.
Notes from J. Taylor’s Great American Circus. Everyone around the winter quarters is working like a beaver, preparing for the coming season. Everything is brand new - canvas, wagons, harness, etc. During the winter numerous new features have been added. Three new advance wagons, three new cages of animals, a new ticket wagon, an elephant, two camels and other additions will make the show about twice its former size. The roster: F. J. Taylor, proprietor and manager; C. A. and Bert Taylor, assistant managers; Chas. Snyder, treasurer; Dick Hunter, general agent and contractor; Park Kelly, Grant White, Oliver Burr, D. S. Allen . . . J. Smith and W. Moore, advance corps; J. L.(?) Davenport, Stick Davenport, Castello Bros., Minnie Castello, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Bennett, J. Abbey . . . W. S. Wheeler, ?. W. Myers, Clyde Ingerham, W. McCafferty, T. P. Ambrose, John Schieldler and wife, J. Boyd Clayton and Da??, J. Marshall, T. Marshall, H. Marshall, C. B. Reed, Phil Scharth . . . Millard Neff, J. Ward . . . Chas. Raymond . . . John Smith . . . J. Jones, J. M. C??ett, W. Benson . . . Walter Scott . . . John Smiley . . . G. F. Brady, C. Coleman, S. Grover, ?. P. Markham, Peter Wade, T. Kelly, J. Leamon, C.(?) F.(?) Beard, Robt. Hughes . . . The show takes the road April __. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 74.
Sam Bennett and wife joined T. J. Taylor’s Circus April 11. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 92.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s Omaha, Neb, May 13, 14, South Omaha 15, 16 . . . New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 171.
F. J. Taylor’s Circus opened the season in Creston, Ia., May 4, with the following performers: Three Castello Brothers, acrobats and horizontal bar performers; Charles Myers, balloon, wire and balance trapeze; Minnie Castello, flying rings and trapeze; Bishop Brothers, tumblers, acrobats and double trapeze; Don Divo, contortionist; Jerome Abbey, equilibrist and juggler; Albert Davenport, principal rider;; Sam Bennett, hurdle and Indian rider; W. S. Wheeler, clown; William Davenport, ring master, and John Marshall’s band of nine pieces. The show travels by wagon, carries 100 people, 105 horses, one elephant, three camels, five cages, and has a 100 foot round top, with two 30 foot middle pieces. New York Dramatic News, May 23, 1891.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s . . . Lincoln Neb. May 21, 22, Milford 23 . . . New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 187.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Wilber, Neb. May 27. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
The F. J. Taylor Show has been out thirteen weeks, and the business up to date has been very gratifying to the management, this being the most prosperous season the company has ever enjoyed. Many additions have been mae to the various departments, notably the purchasing of ten head of heavy, handsome draft horses, making one hundred and thirty-two head all told; a new side show wagon and a splendid new tableau wagon for the parade. The roster: Chas. Snyder, treasurer; John Davenport, equestrian director; John Marshall, musical director; Walt McCaffrey, master of privileges; Charles M. Baldwin, boss hostler; G. F. Brady, boss canvasman and G. H. Hahn, assistant; P. B.(?) McPherson, steward; Shan(?) Coleman, chandelier man; Harry St. Claire, boss canvasman of the Kid show and Billy Werms, animal man. The dressing room contains Tom Ambrose, ring master; Albert Davenport, principal rider; the Costello Bros., brother act and bars; William Costello, principal leaper and tumbler; Sam Bennett, jockey hurdle rider; Billy Wheeler, principal clown; Bishop Bros., trapeze and brother act; Chas. Meyers, slack wire and balancer; Jerome Abbey, barrel kicker and juggler . . . Minnie Costello, aerialist; Mme. Davenport, vocalist; Bertie and May Davenport, vocalists and dancers; Lydia Bennett, soubrette, and Mlle. Sorelta, second sight. The show consists of one hundred and ten people, one hundred and thirty-two head of horses, two elephants and six camels, including the baby camel, now five weeks old, and is more a pleasure party than a financial enterprise. The Costellos received a pleasant visit from their brother, Charles Costello, of Chicago. The harvest does not seem to impede the business of the show in this section, as full houses are a daily occurrence. Dick Hunter and Charles Taylor have charge of the advance, and have displayed admirable ability in selecting the route. We met the Dick Sutton Show between Tipton and Mechanicsville, Ia., July 23, and the stock of both shows were watered at the same well. New York Clipper, August 8, 1891, p. 364.
Notes from the F. J. Taylor Circus. The season for us is half over, and, if the last half is as good as the first, it will be the most successful in the history of the organization. Everybody is well and happy, and all are doing business at the big window of the post office. J. L. Davenport is our dressing room director, while Stick Davenport is riding like a finished equestrian. His forward and back somersaults never fail to bring down the house. Billy Wheeler is tickling the bucolic mind(?), and repeating his former success as a popular clown. Sam Bennett deserves the hearty applause he receives at every performance for his really daring hurdle act. The Castello Bros., the noted acrobats, who signed for twelve weeks, left at the expiration of their contract and joined the Wallace Show, agreeable to arrangements made last winter. All privileges are doing exceedinly well. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor, Brush Creek, Ia. Aug 12, Oelwein 13, Jessup 14, La Porte 15, Dysart 17 . . . Gladbrook 21 . . . New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 386.
Notes from the F. J. Taylor Shows. Our season has been a good one, and everybody from the manager down wear a look of contentment. Rain or shine, poor business or good, it has been just the same to manager Taylor. He never says one word, but runs his hand in his pocket and pays, with a smile, the money due his people. Our season is drawing to a close, and it won’t be long before the parting will take place, as it did in days of yore. At Creston, Ia., Oct. 30, 1891, we will part after a six month’s season, to go our different ways. Little May Davenport was called in the ring by T. P. Ambrose, who, on behalf of the workingmen, handed the little girl a beautiful gold watch and chain. Abbey Wheeler and Marshall will run their own company. Sam Roney Bennett has bought an interest in the Thomas Vaudevilles, the Farnums will play dates, the Bishops, La Moynes and Don Divo(?) will work the theatres during the winter. John L. Davenport Sr. and his talented family will occupy their own handsome home in the World’s Fair city. . . . Mrs. Sam Bennett will join her husband’s company, Chas. Snider will return to Creston, Ia., and Manager J. F. Taylor will spend the winter at his home. Dick Hunter, the agent, will go in advance of Abbey, Wheeler and Marshall. Add Yale returns to his home, Milwaukee, Wis. Tom Ambrose will go South. New York Clipper, October 31, 1891, p. 569.
Providence, Rhode Island. The Farnum Bros. go with F. J. Taylor’s Circus next season. Fred Welcome and John Batchellor, the old time leaper, have signed to go with that show. New York Clipper, December 26, 1891, p. 705.
1892:
The Bennetts, riders and gymnasts, have been re-engaged with Taylor’s American Circus for 1892. New York Clipper, January 9, 1892, p. 728.
F. J. Taylor’s Great American Circus, Museum and Menagerie, now in winter quarters at Creston, Ia., is to be enlarged to twice its former size, and with everything new for next season. There will be a 100ft. round top tent with two __ft. middle pieces, two elephants, five camels and eleven cages of animals. The following is the executive staff: F. J. Taylor, sole owner and manager . . . Chas. A. Taylor, director of advance No. 1; L. A. Taylor, treasurer; F. A. Taylor, door keeper; John G. Scheidler, manager side show; W. McCafferty, master of privileges; G. F.(P.?) Brady, master of canvas. The show will open the season at Creston about April __. New York Clipper, January 9, 1892, p. 728.
John G. Scheidler, sideshow manager, and his wife, Millie Sorella, mind reader and snake charmer, have been re-engaged with F. J. Taylor’s Circus for the coming season. They are now in Ohio, with their Eden Musee. . . . New York Clipper, January 23, 1892, p. 763.
W. J. Batten left Scheidler’s Eden Musee last week, to rest at Chicago a few weeks before joining F. J. Taylor’s Circus, to take charge of the elephants. New York Clipper, March 12, 1892, p. 3.
Harry Wilson, leaper and tumbler, joins Taylor’s Circus, at Creston, Ia. Wm. De Van, hurdle rider, also joined. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
Nellie, daughter of Lon and Fannie Moore, was presented with several handsome presents March 9, her eighth birthday. Among the gifts were a pair of earrings and feather fan. The Moores have finished their ladder act. Mr. Moore has in preparation a new song book to offer the patrons of the F. J. Taylor Show, which he is engaged with to do principal and singing clown, also Mrs. Moore and Nellie to furnish three acts for the big show. Mr. Moore will join hands with Chas. Gardner Jr. after the tenting season to do a singing and comedy act for the Fall and Winter season. Mr. Gardner has also signed with the F. J. Taylor Shows, to work in the concert. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
On April 28(?), the F. J. Taylor Great American Shows will open their fifth season at Creston, Ia. During the winter the show has been remodeled and enlarged in every department. The roster: F. J. Taylor, sole owner and manager; A.(?) L. Taylor, treasurer; F. A. Taylor, doorkeeper; C. A. Taylor, charge of advance No. 1, with ten bill posters; Dick Hunter, contractor; Ad. Funk, programmer, with two assistants; Geo. Hill, lithographer; Dick Farnum and wife, James Farnum and wife, Lon Moore and wife, Little Nellie Moore, T. ?. Ambrose . . . Fred Welcome . . . Alf Dorian, John Batchelor, James Kincaid, Wm. Devan . . . Band - John Marshall, Tom Marshall, Henry Marshall, Ad. Vradenburg . . . J. H. Bishop, C. C. Williams . . . H. Wise . . . Will Long and ?. T. Baker. Walt McCafferty has charge of privilege; J. G. Scheidler, charge of annex; G.(?) F. Brady, master of canvas, with sixteen assistants; S.(?) C.(?) Preston, boss hostler, with twenty-six drivers . . . Lee Coleman, chandelier, with three assistants; Geo. Douglas, steward; F. Long, cook, with six assistants . . . New York Clipper, April 9, 1892, p. 66.
John G. Scheidler closed his Eden Musee Co. April 16(?) to join F. J. Taylor’s Circus, where he will take charge of the sideshow. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 117.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Clarinda IA May 4, Shenandoah 5, Randolph 6 . . . Council Bluffs 10, Omaha Neb 11. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 135.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylors’ Omaha Neb. May 11, South Omaha 12, Louisville 13 . . . New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 151.
Roster of the sideshow with F. J. Taylor’s Shows: F. J. Taylor, proprietor; John G. Scheidler, manager; F. P. Ambrose, Sig. Sorata, Millie Sorella, Zola Zuletta, Mysterious Boreo(?) and Oneo; also Molack, the giant horse, and a cage of birds and monkeys. Jess(?) Parker has charge of canvas with four assistants. A sixty foot round top with forty foot middle piece and sixteen new double decker painting and a band of six pieces. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 178.
On the road, circuses: Taylor’s, Lawrence KS June 23 . . . New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 248.
Notes from the F. J. Taylor Circus. We have had a hard pull through the mud, and such mud as was never seen before. We were one week at Nebraska City, water bound, and could not get out by either rail or wagon road for several days. Since then the show has been doing good business. We carry this season 100ft. round top, with a __ft. middle piece; one 80ft. round top, with two 30ft. middle pieces; 110 head of horses, eight cages of animals with an open den of lions, four camels and one elephant. Chang Brady, boss canvas man, has twenty assistants. Lee Coldman, with two assistants, look after the lights, and Dick Brown, boss hostler, has twenty-four assistants. The roster: F. J. Taylor, owner and manager; Dick Hunter, general agent; Dick Farnum, equestrian director; James King, John F.(P.?) Batchelor, William Devan, Fred Welcome, Lon Moore, Don Divo, Abe Bishop, George Payne, Charles Gardner, James Farnum, Dick Farnum, Harry Wilson, Mrs. Josie Farnum, Mrs. Fanny Moore, Nellie Moore, Mrs. James Farnum, Mrs. Abe Bishop, Mrs. J.Schidler, Mrs. Walter McCafferty, Walter McCafferty, John G. Schidler, William Farnum Jr., Prof. John Marshall, Thomas Marshall, H. Vradenbargh(?), J. Bishop, C. Williams, W. Neff . . . Crawfored C.(?) Gardner, Thos. Devine, F.(P.?) Melville, N. P. Harper and others. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Axtell Neb. June 29 . . . Wilcox July 1, Bloomington 2, Alma 4, Beaver City 5, Arrapahoe 6, Cambridge 7. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 265.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Arrapahoc, Neb. July 6, Cambridge 7, Iadianola 8, McCook 9, Oberlin KS 11, Norcatur 12, Norton 13. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Norton KS July 13, Long Island 14, Logan 15 . . . Kirwin 18, Stockton 19. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Osborne KS July 21, Downs 22, Lebanon 23, Red Cloud Neb. 25, Burr Oak KS 26, Mankato 27. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 300.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Mankato KS July 27, Cortland 28, Scandia 29, Concordia 30, Delphos Aug 1 . . . Clay Centre 3. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s . . . Leonardville KS Aug 4, Randolph 5, Waterville 6, Marysville 8 . . . Liberty NE 10. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 341.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Pawnee City Neb. Aug 11, Humboldt 12, Stella 13, Aubrun 15, Tecumseh 16, Sterling 17, Palmyria 18. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 361.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Sterling Neb. Aug 17, Palmyria 18, Syracuse 19, Talmage 20, Hamburg IA 22, Sidney 23. New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 376.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s Walnut IA Aug 31 . . . Manning Sep 3 . . . New York Clipper, September 3, 1892, p. 409.
On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Stratford Ia. Sep 14. New York Clipper, September 17, 1892, p. 443.
F. J. Taylor's Circus closed the season Oct. 26, at ___, Mo. John G. Scheidler, sideshow manager, and Mlle Sorella closed their season of twenty-six week with F. J. Taylor's Circus, on October 25, 1892. They opened at the Eden Musee, Creston, Ia., October 31. New York Clipper, November 5, 1892, pp. 554, 557.
• Information on the 1892 F. J. Taylor's Great American Circus is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1993, Vol. 37, No. 4, pp. 33-34.
1893:
The Jennier Family have signed with F. J. Taylor’s Great American Two Ring Circus and Colossal Menagerie for next season. . . . Little Maud was presented with a pair of diamond earrings by the performers and attaches at the Summit Theatre, Newport, Ky. New York Clipper, January 28, 1893, p. 755.
Lon Moore closed with Lake & North’s Circus at Tampa, Fla., Feb. 2, and is now at his home, Defiance, O. His wife, daughter and himself are in active rehearsal for the coming season. They have re-engaged with the F. J. Taylor Circus, Mr. Moore to do principal clowning, while Mrs. Moore and their little daughter, Nellie, will furnish a number of acts. New York Clipper, February 18, 1893, p. 800.
Everything is lively at the Winter quarters of F. J. Taylor's Shows at Creston(?), Ia. The season will open April 27 with a much larger outfit than ever before. The painters are busy getting the cages and wagons ready for the road. Everything around the show will be brand new. Canvasses: Main show - 100ft.(?) round top, with two 50 ft. middle pieces. Menagerie - 70ft. round top with two 30 ft. middle pieces. Side show - 50 ft. round top, with a 20 ft. middle piece. In the menagerie department will be two elephants, six camels, one llama and seven cages of animals. The roster: F. J. Taylor, sole proprietor and manager; L. A. Taylor, treasurer; C. A. Taylor, press agent; Dick Hunter, general agent; Louis Elliott, contracting agent; . . . John Callahan, in charge of firs tbrigade with ten men; L. B. Reed, in charge of second brigade with six men; C. A. Miller, advertising program; Add Vradenburg, band master with twelve men; Lee Coleman, superintendent of canvas with sixteen men; Harry St. Clair, in charge of sideshow canvas, with four assistants; G. Gropes(?), superintendent properties with six assistants; Brjock Sport, in charge of stock with twenty-four men; Harry Murray, superintendent of animals, with four assistants. . . . Edd. Shipp, equestrian director; Julia Lowanda, Al. Lowanda, LOn Moore and family, Farnum and Welcome, Jenier Family, four in number, Eddie Shipp, Knard Bros., J. W. Keechel, Smith and Leon, Edgar and wife . . . New York Clipper, March 25, 1893, p. 34.
Notes from F. J. Taylor’s Circus. This show opened to packed tents at Creston, Ia., April 27, and we are now in our fourth week of uninterrupted success. Our programme is long and varied, and is rendered by the following people: Edward Shipp, equestrian manager; Julia Lowanda, Alex. Lowanda, Lon Moore and family, Geo. Jennier and family, Farnum and Welcome, the Two Geyers, Stone Bros., Frank Taylor and Ed. Keech. In the sideshow are Prof. Fostello, Mrs. Fostello . . . Prof. Vernon and others. Everybody about the show is well and happy. Only one thing has happened to mar the pleasure of our trip thus far. An accident which happened to Edward Shipp, during the riding of his jockey act, resulting in the breaking of one of his legs. This occurred at Malvern, Ia., May 5(?). Mr. Shipp was left there, in care of his mother and brother members of the K. of P., who are giving him all possible care and attention. He is progressing nicely, and will be able to resume his position of equestrian manager in a few weeks. During his absence, the position is being creditably filled by Geo. Jennier. This is one of the largest and best equipped wagon shows on the road, having one hundred and twenty head of fine stock, all in splendid condition. Our parade is something brilliant, and the admiration of the multitudes who behold it daily. The call for "extras" is almost a daily occurrence in the big top, and on several different occasions we have closed the ticket wagon early, turning hundreds away for want of seating capacity and standing room. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
Want a hurdle or bounding jockey rider with or without stock. Address F. J. Taylor, Beaver City, Neb., June 2 . . . Oberlin, Kas. 6 . . . New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 211.
Wanted, all kinds of circus performers, for T. J. Taylor’s Circus. Address per route Lexington 14 . . . Calioway 16, Broken Bow 17 . . . Ord 20 . . . St. Paul 22. New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 245.
Notes from F. J. Taylor’s Circus. Everything is booming and business continues big. Several incident have happened since our opening to furnish comment from superstitious people. On Friday, April 28(?), Mr. Shipps lost his riding mare, "Fanny." On Friday, May 3(?), Mr. Shipp broke his leg at Malvern, Ia. On Friday, May 26(?), Mrs. Shipp’s riding mare "Lady" died, and On June 13(?), in making the drive from Arapahoe(?) to ___, a runaway occurred in which our treasurer, Mr. Morrison, and Bert Taylor, assistant manager, narrowly escaped death. . . . we are all anxiously looking forward to the return of our equestrian manager, Ed. Shipp, which will no doubt be soon now, as his broken leg is mending rapidly. New York Clipper, June 24, 1893, p. 248.
Notes from F. J. Taylor’s Circus. Business continues big, everybody is well and happy, and the stock looks well. The show is giving good ___, and the only cause for disapointment is occasioned by the fact that some weeks our Clippers arrive a day late. . . . Wm. De Van, hurdle and Indian rider, joined at ___, and is riding in splendid form. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
Notes from F. J. Taylor’s Circus. We are now in our thirteenth week, and business has been uniformly big since our opening day. On July 13 at cub was born to our lioness, Julia. Our band, under the direction of Prof. Ad. Vrandenburg, is one of the pleasing features of the parade. The principal bareback riding act of Julia Lowande, the hurdle act of Wm. De Van and the aerial acrobatic act of Farnum and Welcome are the features of the big show. Lon Moore keeps the audience, as well as the dressing room, in a constant state of merriment. The Stone Bros. are doing a good brother act. Alex. Lowande’s bounding rope act is unique and pleasing. Fred Welcome’s balancing trapeze act is very "taking." Little Nellie Moore captivates the audience with her evolutions on the silver wire. The Geyers are doing creditable work with their Egyptian juggling and rolling globe acts. The Stone Bros. and Lon Moore are pleasing features in the concert, while Prof. Vernon is one of the many attractions in the sideshow. We have had two or three severe wind storms, but, luckily, so far have escaped without losing a foot of canvas or anybody sustaining any injury. The entire dressing room is in a state of pleasant anticipation regarding the return fo our equestrian director, Ed. Shipp, which is expected at Silver City, July 26(?), his broken leg having mended sufficiently to sustain his weight once more. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
Notes from F. J. Taylor's Circus. Everybody is well and happy, and the show is doing a good business. Geo. Jennier is doing a splendid barrel, table and cross act. Mrs. Moore, balancing traps; the two Jenniers in a fine posturing act; Ed. Keech, flying sailor perch and contortion act; Geo. and Maude Jennier, sensational double trapeze; and the Moores, Fanny and Nellie, breakaway ladder act. Master Frank Taylor is ddoing a great two pony act. In the concert are Chas. Gardner, Little Nellie Moore, the Jennier children, and Mrs. Jennier. In the sideshow: the Fostellos, Thos. P.(?) Ambrose, the veteran ringmaster, displays his usual good judgment in "laying out" the people at hotels. The canvas is under the care of Lee Coleman, and the stock, in charge of Brock Short, is looking well. The advance: Dick Hunter, general agent; Louis A. Elliott, contracting agent; Geo. A. Bedee, managers of advance No. 1, with J. T. Callahan, Louis Martin . . . Ed. Case . . . and Grant Hubbell, billposters. T. B. Reed, manager of advance No. 2 . . . Chris Beck is programmer. New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 362.
The advertising brigades of F. J. Taylor's America's Greatest Shows. Dick Hunter, contracting agent; advance brigade No. 1: . . . Ely Grant, asst. lithographer; John ?. Callahan in charge of paper; Louis Martin and Frank Reid . . . Edw. W. Case, Grant Hubbe, in charge of stock, three wagons and 8 horses. Advance brigade No. 2: T. B. Reed, in charge; ___ and Chas. Paling, routes; Jas. McCue in charge of stock, two wagons and four horses; Lewis Elliott, route rider and publisher of official programme. Advance No. 3, with buggy and spotted horses. Brigade No. 1 are fifteen days ahead of the show, No. 2 are one week and No. 3 from three to five days ahead. Advance No. 1 went to the cemetery at Jefferson, Ia., Aug. 6(?), to visit the grave of Yankee Robinson, who is buried there. They visited the Forepaugh Show at Des Moines, 9. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 378.
On the road, circuses: Taylor's, Cascade IA Sep 20, Monticello 21, Wyoming 22 . . . Centre Point 26 . . . Gladbrook 29 . . . New York Clipper, September 23, 1893, p. 461.
On the road, circuses: Taylor's, Vinton IA Sep 27 . . . Gladbrook 29 . . . New York Clipper, September 30, 1893, p. 479.
F. J. Taylor & Son's Show disbanded at Gladbrook, Ia., with two week's ___ canceled, and the wagons were ___ one hundred and seventy-five miles to Creston, Ia. New York Clipper, October 28, 1893, p. 545.
Everything is lively at the Winter quarters of F. J. Taylor’s Shows at Creston, Ia. The season will open April 27 with a much larger outfit than ever before. The painters are busy getting the cages and wagons ready for the road. Everything around the show will be brand new. Canvasses: Main show - 100ft.(?) round top, with two 50 ft. middle pieces. Menagerie - 70ft. round top with two 30 ft. middle pieces. Side show - 50 ft. round top, with a 20 ft. middle piece. In the menagerie department will be two elephants, six camels, one llama and seven cages of animals. The roster: F. J. Taylor, sole proprietor and manager; L. A. Taylor, treasurer; C. A. Taylor, press agent; Dick Hunter, general agent; Louis Elliott, contracting agent; . . . John Callahan, in charge of first brigade with ten men; L. B. Reed, in charge of second brigade with six men; C. A. Miller, advertising program; Add Vradenburg, band master with twelve men; Lee Coleman, superintendent of canvas with sixteen men; Harry St. Clair, in charge of sideshow canvas, with four assistants; G. Gropes(?), superintendent properties with six assistants; Brjock Sport, in charge of stock with twenty-four men; Harry Murray, superintendent of animals, with four assistants. . . . Edd. Shipp, equestrian director; Julia Lowanda, Al. Lowanda, Lon Moore and family [prob. Nellie Moore], Farnum and Welcome, Jenier Family, four in number, Eddie Shipp, Knard Bros., J. W. Keechel, Smith and Leon, Edgar and wife . . . New York Clipper, March 25, 1893, p. 34.
• Information on the 1893 F. J. Taylor show is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 1, pp. 45-46.
1894:
The Potters, equestrians and aerialists, have signed with the F. J. Taylor's Circus. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68.
Advance car No. 1, of F. J. Taylor's Circus, has the following people: Geo. A. Bedee, general agent; W. H. Hall, in charge of first advance; Louis Martin, in charge of paper with Chas. Pailing. Tobe Beers, Grant Hubble as assistants. H. R. Pottenger, lithographer and Brick Dumont, programmer. New York Clipper, April 21, 1894, p. 102.
Roster of F. J. Taylor's Circus, Museum and Menagerie. Executive staff: F. J. Taylor, sole proprietor and manager; C. A. Taylor, assistant manager; Bert Taylor, treasurer; N. B.(?) Morrison, ticket seller . . . Performers: Harry Potter and wife, the two Geyers, Jennier Family . . . Stone Bros., John Davenport . . . clowns Brevard, Delaporte and Martino(?); Prof. Ad. Vradenburg has the band with twelve mouth pieces, as follows: A. Vradenburg, Homer(?) Vradenburg, Joe Mitchell . . . Fred Taylor . . . Harry Blackford, O. Mullens . . . S. P. Bowman will run the side show. . . . W. Brady has charge of canvas with eighteen assistants; Winfield Scott has the stock with twenty-four assistants; W. P. McPherson has charge of cook tent with six assistants; Joe Groves, boss property man with four assistants; Lee Coleman, boss chandelier man. Things are rapidly assuming shape, and we will start out in better condition than ever before, with everything indicating a long and prosperous season. Winfield Scott has just returned from New York with eight coal black horses for the band wagon and a ___ of Shetland ponies for parade, a feature of which will be a gun spinning act, in Arab costume, by the two Geyers, on a large tableaux wagon in motion(?). Our menagerie consists of eight cages, two elephants, five camels, and a choice collection of birds, monkeys and snakes, making it the best wagon show that will tour the West this year. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 117.
Notes from the Taylor Show. F. J. Taylor's Great American Circus opened at Creston, Ia., April 26(?). The big tent was packed afternoon and night. The performers include Geo. Jennier, dancing barrel, table and cross; Maud Jennier, slack wire; John Davenport, somersault riding act; the Two Geyers, Egyptian jugglers and running globes; Jennier children, double trapeze; Frank Taylor, two pony act; Harry Potter, high wire; Ella Potter, principal act; George Jennier and son, posturing act; Stone Bros., aerial acrobats; Eddie Cunningham, contortionist; the Potters, double trapeze; Park Melrose, bounding rope; Harry Potter, hurricane hurdle; Mrs. S. P. Bowman, trained dogs; Bervardo and Martino, clowns; Geo. Jennier, equestrian director; and Thos. P. Ambrose, ringmaster. S. P. Bowman has a splendid side show. Lee Coleman has charge of the canvas; R.(?) Rogers has the lights. Business has been big since the opening. Abe Bishop, clown . . . joined April 30(?). New York Clipper, May 12, 1894, p. 149.
• Information on the 1894 F. J. Taylor show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 4, pp. 33-34.
1900:
F. J. Taylor, of Creston, Iowa, will try it again this season under the style of the Great F. J. Taylor's Shows (incorporated). Billboard, May 1, 1900, p. 6.
F. J. Taylor's Shows. Advance: General contracting agent, J. A. Park; Press agent, A. D. Funk; in charge of advance, A. D. Funk; Programmer, C. Lecey; bill posters: Thos. Acton, P. A. Howard, Will Myers, J. Hurly. Correction: H. D. Parks, contracting agent; Thomas Alton, press agent and advance manager; H. W. Turk, lithographer; Otto Windell, programmer; H. H. Graham, boss bill poster; bill posters: D. S. Perry, Jerry Moore, Bud Smith, A. L. Hoover, Henry Campbell, Sig. Benson; hostlers with Nos. 1 and 2, Clarence Downey and Charlie Dunn. Billboard, May 1, 1900.
F. J. Taylor's advance roster: contracting agent H. D. Parks; press agent and manager advance, Thomas Alton; lithographer, H. W. Turk; programmer, Otto Windell; boss bill poster, H. H. Graham; billposters: D. S. Perry, Jerry Moore, Bud Smith, A. L. Hoover, Henry Campbell, Sig. Benson; hostlers with Nos. 1 and 2, Clarence Downey and Charlie Dunn. Billboard June 23, 1900, p. 5.
• Article on the F. J. Taylor Circus 1886-1925, and the career of owner Frank J. Taylor, is online in Bandwagon, May-Jun 1963.
All information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or the persons.
Mons. Taylor's Canine Paradox - 1895
Notes from Mons. Taylor's Canine Paradox. The following people have signed: R. C. Thomas, advance with two assistants; Prof. Sydney, band leader; Bob Thompson, treasurer; Mons. Taylor, contortionist; A. Roberts, wire and perch; Linden and wife, double traps and outside ascension. The show takes the road the latter part of April. New York Clipper, March 9, 1895, p. 7.
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Tedrow & Gettle's - 1900
Tedrow & Gettle's 25-cent show is now seven weeks out. With the show: Tedrow & Gettle; Sutton, Smith & Morris, clowns; Band: T. H. Rice, leader, E. Williams, J. E. Jones, P. H. Hawk, W. H. Jacobs, G. Tennyhill, J. R. collins, H. M. Patton; Orchestra: Prof. Williams, leader, W. H. Jacobs, J. R. Collins. Performers: The Suttons, man wife and daughter; E. Porterfield; Gladys, Mitchell, Robert Bolliger; Dock Moria; Chas. Barker; Fred Dew, high dive into a net. Side show: Mrs. Sutton's snakes; Miss Gladys Mitchell, sword walker; Jasper Johnson, strong man; E. Porterfield, magician and Punch; Miss Esther Smith, futures and fortunes; the Getties, Mexican knife throwing. Blondy Robinson has charge of canvas. Charles Barker, chandeliers; Doc John Dye, stock; R. W. Perkins, agent; W. J. Kelly, bill poster; E. E. Porter, programer; W. K. Smith, lithographer. Billboard June 23, 1900, p. 5. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Teets - 1877
The Star of Cincinnati says on Nov. 17: "While Teet's Circus was exhibiting at Pond Creek, Ky., one night this week, some scoundrel, who was refused admittance, threw a stone, which struck Mr. Teet, breaking his jaw bone." New York Clipper, November 24, 1877, p. 279. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Teets Bros. - 1888-89, 1890-94, 1896, 1898
1888: The Teets Bros.' Circus, now touring Georgia, consists of a one hundred foot round top, eight wagons, eighteen horses and brass band, John Armdt, leader. Lew Turner and Chas. Ogden control the concert and other privileges. Teets Bros., trapeze; Bob Teets, ___ Teets and C. Ogden, bars; James Francis, singing clown; John Teets, knockabout clown; Master Powell, contortionist; J. C. Teets, leader of orchestra; Mrs. W. C. Tees, treasurer; Alice Francis, slack wire; Lizzie Ogden, female juggler; Lew Turner, director; Chas. Hughes, advance agent. The show has been in Georgia and Alabama all Summer. New York Clipper, September 22, 1888, p. 445.
1889:
Teets Bros. Show closed their season at Lumber City, Ga., last week. They report having been out fifty-eight weeks. New York Clipper, January 12, 1889, p. 701.
Troutman's, N.C., July 15. Teete Brothers' big show arrived here the 11th inst. at 11 a.m. and stayed until the morning of the 13th. They did not show in daylight as it rained and there was but a small crowd. They appointed 7:30 p.m. to begin their show. They opened up and began to try to sell tickets, but no one went up to buy until after those who had free passes for billing privileges, which included near twenty persons. After the deadheads got in, eight or ten more came in and that made up all the crowd. They did give a nice performance. Statesville Landmark (Statesville, NC), July 18, 1889, n.p.n.
1890:
On the Road, Circuses: Teets Bros., in Alabama. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 370.
Fred H. Gellen, general agent of the Teets Bros.’ Show, has a new four horse advance wagon. This show is to continue in the South the entire summer. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 373.
On the Road, Circuses and Miscellaneous: Teet’s Bros., Port Vincent, La. Dec. 3, French Settlement 4, Dutch Town, 5. New York Clipper, December 6, 1890, p. 611.
1891:
Prof. F. H. Gellen, general advance agent of Teets Bros.’ Show, left Jan. 1, to join ___ Floating Theatorium, 3, as general agent. New York Clipper, January 17, 1891, p. 709.
Wanted at once, for Teet’s Bros.’ New Shows, gymnasts, musicians and specialty people Would like to hear from good song and dance and serio comic ladies. Teets Brothers’ New Shows, Kingston, Tenn. for next ten days. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 225.
1892:
Wanted, for Teets Bros.’ New Shows. People in all branches of the circus profession. Riders who can furnish their own stock. Gymnasts and acrobats. Also people for concert. Show opens May _, 1892. Address Hazel Green, Ky. Gabe Boon write. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 93.
Teet’s Bros.’ Show reports good business in the South. Fremont and D? Carlo and Harry McDonald and wife have joined the troupe. New York Clipper, October 29, 1892, p. 543.
1893:
Teet Bros.’ Wagon Shows are touring the south. George W. Richards and his trained animal paradox consisting of ponies, donkeys, dogs, monkeys and goats, have recently joined. Jack Shumate has charge of the canvas and stock, and is breaking some ponies. W. H. Fremont has charge of the advance, with two assistants. After showing Florida they will go down the Apalachicola River to Apalachicola, and are contemplating a trip to Cuba after they play the coast towns of Florida. New York Clipper, January 7, 1893, p. 702.
W. H.(?) Fremont closed an engagement with Teets Bros. & Richards’ Show in the South. New York Clipper, April 8, 1893, p. 68(?).
1894:
Want for Teets Bros.' New Show. People in all ___ of circus business and concert people doing two or more acts, band of five mouth pieces. Long season. . . . Address Teets Bros.' New Show, Hazel Green, Wolf County, Ky. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 124.
The Bob Robinson Specialty Co. will close season at Paris, Ky. Geo. Parento joins Cullins' Circus. Bob Robinson and the rest of the company will join the Teets Bros.' Circus. Mr. Robinson will manage the show. Master Harry Robinson, son of Bob Robinson, was thrown from a bicycle recently and broke his collar bone. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 133.
1896: Teets Bros.' Show notes. We are traveling through North Carolina. Ed Hardy and Charles Ogden, gymnasts and aerialists, have rejoined the show. Mrs. Lillie Teets is making a hit in her fancy rifle shooting act, and Mrs. Hattie Teets is wing and buck dancing. New York Clipper, October 17, 1896, p. 527.
1898:
Hill and Hill and Manning and Emery closed with the show [Blue Mountain Joe] at Wilmington to join Teets Bros.’ Circus at Newbern. New York Clipper, March 26, 1898, p. 61.
The Teet Bros.’ show was at Harmony [NC] about two weeks ago. Deputy Sheriff Ward was in doubt in regard to the amount of tax they were required to pay and wnt to Tarnersburg and called up Sheriff Wycoff through the ‘phone. They were required to pay $10. The show is a good one for the price of admittance - 25 cents - and the men composing it seem to be gentlemen. Semi-Weekly Landmark (Statesville, NC), August 9, 1898.
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Prof. Tegge's Circus - 1994, 1998
1994: Prof. Tegge's Circus, also called Prof. Tegge's Circus Clown Revue, played fairs in Michigan and Wisconsin, a festival in Iowa, and shopping malls from July to September, 1994. Tim Tegge was owner. Bandwagon, March-April, 1995, p. 15.
1998: Professor Tegge's Circus Revue played dates in Wisconsin school gyms and other small venues in the Fall. Bandwagon, March-April, 1999, p. 21.
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Terrell Bros. - 1889, 1891-92
1889: Season of 1889. Terrell Bros. Circus lost 20 horses, burned to death on a ferry-boat which caught fire at Oquawka, Ill., as the show was crossing the Missouri river. “Important Fires of Circus History,” By A. Morton Smith, Hobbies, September, 1944, pp. 24-25.
1891:
Wanted for the Terrell Bros. Brand New Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie, Exhibition of Trained Animals and Kentucky Horses. Sober and reliable performers in all branches for the big show and concert, riders with or without stock, boss canvasman, boss hostler, chandelier man and animal man, four and six horse drivers, good band of eight mouthpieces. Travel by wagon, stop at hotels. Want to buy any good healthy animals to complete menagerie. Also want A 1 advance agent and billposters. Sideshow, candy, balloon and other privileges for sale. Address Terrell Bros., Paducah, Ky. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 765.
Billy Monroe has closed with the Terrell Bros., for whom he had been acting as trainer for their troupe of horses. New York Clipper, March 14, 1891, p. 6.
Paducah, Kentucky. G. C. Hammond and W. S. Martin are in the city, putting the finishing touches to the cages and other paraphernalia of the Terrell Bros. Show. New York Clipper, March 14, 1891, p. 6.
Paducah, Kentucky. Ben J. Settle has signed as treasurer with Terrill Bros.’ Circus. New York Clipper, March 14, 1891, p. 6.
Paducah, Kentucky. In spite of the fact that the Turell [sic] Bros. are advertising their circus property for sale, they are making every preparation to start out early in April. There has been trouble brewing for some time among the owners of the show, and the sale of the property will be made in order to satisfy the dissatisfied members of the company. It is an open fact that the property will be bought in by the present officers, who will then enlarage and otherwise increase the show. New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 49.
Wanted, for Terrell Bros.’ Brand New Shows, a few more performers, concert people who can play brass or drums for band, boss canvasman and chandelier man, also a few more experienced bill posters . . . Side show, candy and other small privileges for sale. Travel by wagon. Address, Terrell Bros.’ Co., Paducah, Ky. New York Clipper, April 4, 1891, p. 70.
The Terrell Bros.’ Co. is the name of the new firm that takes out the Terrell Show this season. Leslie La Salle will have charge of the advance, assisted by Wm. Doris. Among the performers are Rob. Raymond, Clarence Robinson and the De Almo(?) Family. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 76.
Wanted, a good brother act who can work bars and tumble. Also a good, reliable boss hostler and four horse drivers. Show opens May 7 at Paducah. Address Terrell Bros., Paducah, Ky. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 148.
Terrell Bros.’ Show opens the season at Paducah, Ky., May 7. Jack Shields will manage the sideshow. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150.
Cincinnati, Ohio. Capt. Wesley(?) S. Baum (tattooed man) and Miss Lulu (tattooed lady), with their tattooed dog, Nellie Bly, leave to join the Terrell Bros.’ Show, which opens the season at Paducah, Ky., May 7(?). New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 155.
Terrell Bros.’ Circus opened their season at Paducah, Ky., May 7 to tremendous business. The following is the roster of the show: Terrell Bros., proprietors; Fletcher Terrell, manager; Artie Shields, treasurer; J. D. De Alma, equestrian manager . . . John Kelly, boss canvasman; J. R. Williams, assistant, with twenty five canvasmen; Melrose Bros.; De Alma Family; Chas. H. Holland and wife . . . James Welch . . . Tommy Clark; Prof. Jas. De Alma; the Chicks; The Raymonds; Josie Hall . . . M. Johnson; R. E. Hodges . . . Ray Crigler; James Malone . . . J. ?. Shields; W. S. Baum . . . New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 167.
. . . horses are superb and are one of the main features of this show. The various baggage wagons brought up the rear, and everything united to make up a display that would reflect credit on an older circus than this. On the grounds everything was neat, new, and was up in good shape. In the way of tents the show is well equipped, carrying a one-hundred-foot round top, two fifty-foot middle pieces, a large horse and cook tent, and a big side-show canvas. The menagerie contains twelve cages of well-assorted animals. The show will travel entirely by wagons and carries, all told, 120 head of stock. The ring entertainment: The Melrose Brothers did some difficult acrobatic feats. Bob Welsh, contortionist, was fine. The D’Alma Sisters (Maud and Myrtle), did a daring and highly successful aerial act. Marlow and Castalette are a first-class horizontal bar team. Mme. D’Alma performed some difficult evolutions on the slack wire. John W. Parsons and wife were heartily applauded for their superb bareback and hurdle riding. Bob Raymond, principal clown, kept the people highly amused while he was in the ring, and was ably seconded by “Hop” Little, a new candidate for public favor. The educated horses, under the direction of Professor D’Alma, are exhibited several times throughout the entertainment, and are very fine indeed. In the concert, Carrie Hall, serio-comic, did a finished song-and-dance and was heartily applauded. John and Annie Chicks, eccentric comedy sketch team, did very clever work, and the rest of the concert people were exceptionally good. About 4,000 people attended the two opening performances, and gave the show a good send-off. The roster: Terrell Brothers, proprietors; Fletcher Terrell, manager; A. L. La Salle, advance; J. E. Flournoy, main door-tender; Jack Shields, manager of the sideshow; William Gleason, door-tender; Norman Bickler, in charge of privileges; Wm. Bailey, assistant; Professor D’Alma, ring-master; Melrose Brothers, Marlow and Castalette, John W. Parsons and wife, the D’Alma Family, Bob Welch, Bob Raymond and “Hop” Little, Carrie Hall, John and Annie Chicks, Weslley Balm and wife, tattooed people. Members of the band: Harry Crigler, leader; F. M. Johnson, R. E. Hedges, A. D. Gerin, Charles Clewell, Leroy Crigler, James Malone, J. C. Greerand and Bob Raymond. Mace Bodenheimer, steward, with four assistants; Charles Kelly, boss canvas man, with twenty-six assistants; George Wartenber, boss hostler, with ten grooms and thirty drivers; “Kid” Clark, chandelierman, with three assistants. New York Dramatic News, May 23, 1891, p. 6.
Terrell Bros.’ Brand New Shows opened the season at Paducah, Ky. (their permanent winter quarters), to packed tents May 7. . . . They carry one hundred and twenty-five head of fine Kentucky horses, twelve cages, two tableaux and two band wagons, two chariots, four tendem teams and thirty educated horses, ponies and mules. The roster: Terrell Bros. & Co., proprietors; John B. Terrell, president; Ed. C. Terrell, vice president; Sid Terrell, secretary; Fletcher Terrell, treasurer and general manager; Jas. F.(P.?) Fleming and A. L. La Salle, assistant managers; John De Alma, equestrian director; Mrs. John, Maud and Myrtle De Alma . . . Lizzie Hall, Mr. and Mrs. John Chick, Billy Welsch . . . Happy Little, Three Melrose Bros., Harry Crigler, band master, with fourteen musicians, J. H. (Jack) Shields has charge of the annex; Chas Kelly, boss canvasman, with twenty assistants; Wm. Clark, chandelier man, with two assistants; George Wartenber, boss hostler, with forty drivers and grooms . . . Artie Shiellds, ticket seller; Geo. ?. Knott, advance representative, with two assistans; Morgan A. Hulsey, boss billposter, with fourteen assistants, using five wagons. The show travels by wagon. Everything is brand new. They report big business since the opening. New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 230.
On the road, circuses: Terrell Bros.’, Vermont, Ill June 11, Macomb 12, . . . New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 231.
Our Paducah, Ky. letter gives an account of the blow down of Terrell Bros.’ Circus and mentions the closing of Costello & Oatman’s Show. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 296.
Paducah, Kentucky. A dispatch from Fletcher Terrell of the Terrell Bros.’ Circus, gives brief details of an unfortunate accident, which befel [sic?] the company at Henry(?), Ill. June 2?. The trained ___ of the company were quartered in the dressing tent when a cyclone struck the tent in which the horses were stabled, blowing it down and doing considerable damage . . . The canvas took fire from the gasoline lights and was entirely destroyed. In the scramble with followed all the finest trained horses belonging to the show were so badly burned that they have shipped here to be treated. The damage will amount to several hundred dollars to the management, but at last account they were going ahead as if nothing had happened and were doing a good business. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 300.
On the road, circuses: Terrell Bros.’ Farmer City, Ill.(?) July 9, Monticello 10, Tolopo 11, Areola 13, Oakland 14, Charleston 15, Toledo 16. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 301.
Wanted, for Terrell Bros.’ Circus, Museum, Menagerie, etc., performers to enlarge show. Must be able to do two or more acts. Show travels by wagon. Address Terrell Bros., Paducah, Ky. Permanent winter quarters. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 310.
On the road, circuses: Terrell Bros.’ Charleston, Ill July 13, Toledo 14(?). New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 313.
Paducah, Kentucky. Mace Bodenheimer returned 6 from the Terrell Bros.’ show with what remained of the stock that was burned in the recent accident to that party. Of the entire lot injured, but two reached here alive. . . . While the show is somewhat crippled by the loss, they are still enjoying fine patronage. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 316.
The De Dalma Family closed with the Terrell Bros. Show at Bushnell, Ind. last week. Leslie La Salle, having regained his health, is again traveling in advance of the show. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 346.
Roster of the advance of Terrell Bros.’ Circus and Menagerie: A. L. La Salle, general agent; F. J. Sebree and Roy Nelson, assistants; M. A. Buisey(?), boss billposter, with the following assistants: Frank Patterson, John Reid, Wm. Herron . . . N. W. Haven . . . Jas. Stone, Jas. Moran . . . E.(?) L. McDonald, Frank Johnson, Chas. Adams, Sam Dougan and Frank Malone. New York Clipper, August 22, 1891, p. 398.
Notes from the Terrell Bros.’ Circus. Mrs. Annie Chick celebrated her birthday Aug. 18(?), and was kindly remembered by several of the show. Among the presents received were a gold headed umbrella, a silver mounted make up box and other useful articles. All the members are well, and the show is doing a big business. Our dives are short ones, which tends to keep the boys lively. . . . New York Clipper, September 5, 1891, p. 432.
Paducah, Kentucky. The Terrell Bros. Circus close their season here Oct. 11(?). New York Clipper, October 3, 1891, p. 503.
Paducah, Kentucky. Leslie La Salle who had been in advance of the Terrell Bros.’ Circus returned to this city today. . . . The route covered over three thousand miles, which is remarkable for a new wagon show. Only two performances were missed, and no serious accidents were occurred thus far. The Terrell Bros. will close their season here, with a large balance on the right side, and this will be used to enlarge their operation for the next circus campaign. It is a foregone conclusion that Leslie La Salle who has ___ them so successfully this season will again be on advance. . . . New York Clipper, October 17, 1891, p. 539.
Notes from Terrell Bros.’ Show. The show closed a very satisfactory season of twenty-four weeks . . . and then went to Paducah, Ky., where it will go into its new winter quarters. New York Clipper, October 24, 1891, p. 552.
Terrell Bros. Circus close their season 19 . . . The advance is already here and disbanded. The show will travel by rail next season. New York Clipper, October 24, 1891, pp. 556-557.
La Salle and Armstrong, who traveled with Terrel [sic] Bros. Circus last summer, opened a museum at Paducah, Ky. Nov 2. New York Clipper, November 21, 1891, p. 619.
1892
Terrell Bros. have sold all their wagons and tenting outfit, with the exception of their horses and wild animals, to McMahon & Smith, of Denver, Col. Terrell Bros. will secure a new and larger outfit for their railroad show in the Spring. New York Clipper, January 16, 1892, p. 745.
Geo. Costello and Jos. McMahon, of Denver, Col., recently purchased the entire circus outfit of the Terrell Bros., with the exception of the horses. . . . Nothing definite can be learned as to what the Terrell Bros. will do, but it is stated thay will carry out their original plans and take out a railroad show, after purchasing an entire new outfit. New York Clipper, January 30, 1892, p. 779.
Hop Little and Roy Nelson, formerly with Terrell Bros.’ Circus, have gone to Louisville, Ky., to join the billposting brigade of Orton’s Circus. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
It is now definitely understood that the Terrell Bros. will not put their circus on the road this season. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
The Terrell Bros. are as yet undecided as to whether they will tour their show this season or not, but as they sold their entire outfit, except the stock, a few weeks ago, the chances are that this season will go on without their show going out. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
• Paducah, Kentucky Directories, 1890-91:
• Kentucky Death Records, 1852-1953. Place of death: McCracken Co., Paducah, KY. Fletcher Terrell; single; born June 12, 1866 at Paducah, KY. Father: Thomas Terrell, born VA. Mother: Mary Fletcher, born VA. Informant: Richard Terrell, Paducah, KY. Died, Sept. 20, 1944. Burial Oak Grove, Sept. 21, 1944.
• Kentucky, Vital Statistics Original Death Certificates. Albert Sidney Terrell, Louisville, Jefferson Co., KY. Born 1862; age 63; married; retired; father Thos. Terrell born VA; mother Mary Fletcher, born VA; date of death Aug 1, 1925; buried Cave Hill, Kentucky.
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Tex Ella's Wild West Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1940
• Tex Ella's Wild West played New York and Pennsylvania for a decade or more. It was a family show with Ella as boss. She loved the slogan "See them rope and ride them horses!" and this appeared on the trucks and all the advertising. The main feature of the show was the sudden appearance of a long horned steer racing through the big top. Bandwagon, January-February, 1972, Vol. 16, No. 1, p. 23.
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Texas Bill's Show - 1916-17, 1921
1916: Texas Bill Davis' Show. Texas Bill Davis, proprietor; Clyde E. Anderson, manager; Wm. Lytton, asst. manager; Walter Kline, treasurer; Dave Kane, secretary; Jim Murry, auditor; C. Anderson, general agent; H. Hall, railroad contractor; Bill Casey, local contractor; John Flynn, special agent; H. Brown, contracting press agent; B. Lewis, advance press agent; Chas. Kline, press agent back with show; Joe Connihan, excursion agent; Chas. Turner, manager sideshow; John Hass, equestrian director; Bill Hall, general supt.; Bill Huser, supt. privileges; Neil Sullivan, musical director; John Sagain, supt. reserved seat tickets; Bill Hass, supt. canvas; Joe Ragen, trainmaster; Tom Kane, boss hostler; Chas. Ryne, supt. commissary dept.; Harry Mitchell, supt. lights; Frank Adams, supt. props; Tom Swain, supt. ring stock; Tom Clark, supt. stock; Joe Conely, supt. working crew; Homer Hall, twenty-four hour agent; Chas. Davis, supt. elephants; Bob Casey, boss carpenter; John Talbert, supt. animals; Frank See, blacksmith; K. Kline, manager advance car No. 1; Joe Hill, manager advance car No. 2; Tom Mean, manager advance car No. 3; Chas. Tomas, checker-up; Al Rice, legal adjuster; Pete Meloy, announcer; twenty-one cars. Show opens at Syracuse, New York, April 29. Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 115.
1917: Texas Bill’s Big Round-Up-Buffalo Hunt - Clyde E. Anderson, prop. and mgr.; Gus Walls, asst. mgr.; Miss Blanch Swain, treas.; Miss Mabel Anderson, secy.; Tom Kane, auditor; Wm. Lutton, gen. agt.; John Doughty, railroad contractor; Howard Brown, local contractor; Walter Lewis, special agent; Bob Davis, press agt.; Wm. McFerson, advance press agt.; Bill Casey, press agt. with show; Wm. Marshell, excursion agt.; Dave Frazer, mgr. side-show; Brad Riley, equestrian dir.; Frank Thomas, gen. supt.; Billie White, supt. privileges; Sam Davis, musical dir.; John Kline, supt. reserved seat tickets; Tom Hill, supt. canvas; Frank LeRoy, trainmaster; Dave Adams, boss hostler; Bob Short, supt. commissary dept.; Frank Laney, supt. lights; Bob Cristy, supt. props.; Ed Feltman, supt. ring stock; Chas. Ryan, supt. stock; Sid Davis, supt. working crew; Bill Morgan, 24-hour agt.; Sam Himes, supt. elephants; Phil Hunt, boss carpenter; Fred Tallman, supt. animals; Joe Flynn, blacksmith; Bob Doll, mgr. adv. car No. 1; Chas. Turner, mgr. adv. car No. 2; Homer Hall, mgr. adv. car No. 3; Sid Downs, checker-up; Gus Downs, legal adjuster; Harry Clems, announcer; 48 cars. Show opens at Pleasantville, N. J., April 18. Billboard, March 24, 1917, pp. 141, 143.
1921: Texas Bill's Big Round-Up and Buffalo Hunt Wild West Show. Clyde E. Anderson, proprietor; Robert Short, manager; Howard Browning, asst. manager; Blanche Swain, treasurer; Alex. Spencer, general agent; Charles Usher, local contractor; Harry Zink, special agent; Lew Glendeney, contracting press agent; Al Jocbey, advance press agent; Chas. Nutt, press agent back with show; Tom Carroll, excursion agent; Rox Costella, equestrian director; Bill Riley, supt. privileges; James Magee, musical director; Otto Mutz, supt. reserved seat tickets; Joe Sigman, supt. canvas; Tex Lee, boss hostler; Bill Hubbard, supt. commissary dept., legal adjuster; Clarence Nutt, supt. lights; Ed Riley, supt. props; Skids Manntat, supt. stock; Bill Perry, supt. working crew; Wm. Sheldon, 24-hour agent; Fred Talman, boss carpenter; Bill Coe, blacksmith; Wm. Lutton, manager advance wagon No. 1; Charles Miller, manager advance wagon No. 2; Frank Cole, announcer; twenty-eight wagons. Show opens Pleasantville, New Jersey, May 2. Billboard, March 19, 1921, p. 123.
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Texas Bud's Wild West - 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909-1914
1909: Texas Bud's Wild West: P. J. Snell ("Texas Bud"), proprietor; Dr. G. B. Harris, manager; Buzzie Williamson, general agent; P. J. Snell, R. R. contractor; Wild Horse Charlie, checker-up; Whitie Mettinger, manager side show; Dr. G. B. Harris, car manager; Clarence Dawney, billposter; Forest Martin, cook. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 81.
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Texas Tom's - 1914, 1916 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1914, 1916
1914: Texas Tom's Overland Shows: J. T. Parker & Son, sole owners and managers; Mrs. J. T. Parker, secretary & treasurer; Eugene Parker, musical director; J. L. Berry, boss canvasman; Homer Boon, boss hostler. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 49.
1916: Texas Tom's Wild West & Trained Animal Shows. Tom Atkinson, proprietor & manager; Ethel Atkinson, secretary & treasurer; Ted Roberts, general agent; Wm. McConkey, equestrian director; Ethel Atkinson, supt. privilges; Rodney Spink, musical director; Jane Hall, supt. reserved seat tickets; Guy Parsons, supt. canvas; C. S. Atkinson, boss hostler; Ethel Atkinson, supt. commissary dept.; Claude Smith, supt. lights; Shorty Smith, supt. props; Wm. McConkey, supt. ring stock; Jockey Brown, supt. stock; Doc Atkinson, supt. working crew; Fred LaVarge, twenty-four hour agent; Joe Mullen, boss carpenter; fifteen wagons. Show opens at Detroit, Michigan, April 1. Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 115.
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Thardo's United Shows - 1907-1908
1907:
Wanted, for Thardo's United Shows, two contracting bill posters, a few more performers, also good cook. Address Ed. Thardo, care of Little, Linesville, Pa. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, April 20, 1907, p. 240.
Thardo United Shows. Edward Thardo, proprietor; A. F. and Mrs. A. F. Thardo, managers; Robert Taylor, general agent. Billboard, May 18, 1907, p. 38.
Notes from Thardo's United Shows, touring Pennsylvania, under canvas. We opened May __, at Linesville, Pa., and business has been excellent from the start. The show is one of the best we have ever had, and we have had to turn people away at several stands, although the weather has been very unfavorable. Our advance agent, Geo. E. Brondson, is the best agent since the days of Billy ___. We have an excellent lot of paper, and everything is running as smooth as glass. Following is the roster of the show: Ed. Thardo, proprietor; Mrs. A. F. Tuttle, manager and treasurer; Ed. Thardo, contortionist; Master Paul Thardo, singing and talking clown; the Thardos, impalement act; Geo. A. Grant, wire walker and juggler; Dan Murdock, flexible equilibrist and balancer . . . Nellie Tuttle's canine paradox. The concert is under the direction of John P. Jack, and we are packing them to the doors every night. We have five big acts in the concert, and every act a feature. John P. Mack is booked on one of the Western circuits for twenty-eight weeks, after Oct. _. The "ghost" walks every week. New York Clipper, June 22, 1907, p. 491.
1908:
Notes from Thardo's United Shows. We are right on deck again this season, playing to record breaking business on our old stamping grounds in Southern and Western Pennsylvania. We have had exceptionally good weather, and everything in connection with the show is running with a snap and vim, and the ghost walks regularly every week. The programme runs as follows. Fred Martin opens with his Jap juggling act, followed by Ed. Thardo, who is making a big hit in his new sensational contortion and barrel acts. Paul Thardo, the boy singer, is getting a good hand when he sings his new parodies. J. P. Mack, character comedian, and buck and wing dancer, and A. F. Tuttle, with his banjo, each have clever songs. The feature act is Helen Thardo's performing dogs. Hugo Trimbley, on the high wire and rings, is followed by the Wilkinson Bros., in grotesque acrobatic stunts. Harry V. Gordon and A. F. Tuttle get the glad hand in their musical comedy act. The orchestra is composed of the following well known people: Earl Sullivan, first violin, C. W. Covell, clarinet, Frank Evans, cornet, and Harry V. Gordon, piano. Clarence Auskings is doing the advance work. New York Clipper, June 20, 1908, p. 466.
Wanted, for Thardo's United Shows. Performers, do two or three turns. Blackface singing and dancing comedian, other useful people. Ed Thardo, Mt. Morris, Greene Co., Pa. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, July 4, 1908, p. 524.
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Harry Thayer's - 1890
Thayer’s Circus is made up as follows: Harry Thayer & Co., proprietors; H. Thayer, business manager; J. W. Jones, treasurer; George Edgerton, equestrian director; Frank McFarland, advance and contracting agent, with five assistants; Frank A. Morton, leader of band of eight mouth pieces; George, Edward and Lee Lacompe, brother act; Richard Dupe and Mabel Sproule, contortionists . . . C. Edwards, Geo. Height and P. Montgomery, horizontal bars . . . May and Lillie Edgerton, aerialists and bird show; Charles Casey, knockabout clown; Kentucky Frank, sharp shooter; James O. Kennedy, singing clown; Geo. and Laura Lucas(?), sketch team . . . Edgerton, ventriloquist . . . Pullman and Thayer have the candy privileges. They use a 100ft. round top, with two middle pieces. New York Clipper July 12, 1890, p. 275.
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Thayer & Noyes - 1862-68
1862:
[Advertisement] Thayer, Noyes & Co.'s Great United States Circus and Hippozoonomadon, will exhibit at Indiana, Tuesday, August 26th, both afternoon and night. At 2 and 7 1/2 p.m. Model show of the world! With the largest and best troupe of performers, musicians, ring and trick horses, ponies and mules ever brought together, making this company the most complete diversified and unparalleled establishment on the Western continent, with everything novel, original, and newly equipped for the season of 1862, under the supervision of the managing proprietors, Messrs. Thayer & Noyes.
• 1862: Thayer & Noyes, online at:
1863:
[Advertisement] Thayer & Noyes' United States Circus and Hippozoononmadom! The Model Show of the Age, unequalled for attractiveness and extent. Paramount in point of excellence, distinguishable for the originality and variety of its features. Unsurpassable in the strength and number of its riders, vaulters, leapers, trainers, and clowns. Trained and educated horses, trick and performing onies, and the best pair of comic mules ever trained, is now on its first tour through the great Northwest and will give its initial entertainment in Iowa at Burlington on Wednesday, Aug. 19, 1863, afternoon and night, performances to commence at 2 o'clock and 7 1/2 p.m. Admission to all parts of the house 50 cents. Children under 10 years of age 25 cts. Seats for everybody.
• 1863: Thayer & Noyes, online at:
1864:
[Advertisement] Grand Metropolitan Combination. Thayer & Noyes' United States Circus, and Van Amburgh & Co.'s Mammoth Menagerie and Egyptian Caravan, combined for the season of 1864, with one price of admission. The wonders of animated nature consolidated with the only legitimate circus ever organized - moral and refined amusement. Pre-eminent equestrians, acrobats, gymnasts, jesters, clowns, contortionists, equilibrists, and general performers. Splendid stud of trained horses, ponies and trick mules. Magnificent collection of living lions, tigers, leopards, bears, hyenas, wolves, monkeys, apes, baboons, birds of all kinds and sizes, &c., gathered by the great Van Amburgh himself. Thursday, June 2d., 1864. Afternoon and evening at 2 & 7 o'clock p.m. Admittance 50 cent. Children under 12 years of age, 25 cents.
• 1864: Thayer & Noyes, online at:
1865:
[Advertisement] Unparalleled Combination of Zoological and Equestrian Attraction. Van Amburgh & Co.'s Mammoth Menagerie, from 539 and 541 Broadway, New York, combined with Thayer & Noyes' Great United States Circus, will exhibit at Hagerstown on Monday, May 1st, 1865. Both companies exhibiting in one tent for one admission fee.
• 1865: Thayer & Noyes, online at:
1866:
[Advertisement] Thayer & Noyes & Co.'s Grand Combination Circus. At Titusville, Tuesday, June 12, 1866. The great mastodon of 1866. Embodying the enormous cavalcade of one hundred men and one hundred horses. Together with a grand comprehensive troupe of performing monkeys, apes, baboons, animals, dogs and ponies, &c. Collected from the four quarters of the globe. The grand alliance of talent. Organized on a scale of unprecedented magnificenct, and extraordinary and varied performances of foreign and native artists, and the troupe of performing monkeys, dogs, animals and ponies. Will inaugurate a new era in amusements. The entertainments will be produced with a degree of originality and splendor never before attempted in this country.
• 1866: Thayer & Noyes, online at:
1867:
[Advertisement] Thayer & Noyes' Great Circus and collection of trained animals. This long established and favorite circus and animal exhibition has been thoroughly re-organized and completely renewed in every detail. The proprietors take especial pride in directing attention to the equestrian company, which is composed of all the old favorites, horsemen, gymnasts and acrobats in the profession.
• 1867: online at:
1868:
[Advertisement] Thayer & Noyes' Great Circus and Menagerie of trained animals. James L. Thayer, manager. C. W. Noyes, equestrian director. Fred. De Bois, treasurer. James Jakway, general agent. Oliver P. Myers, director of publications.
• 1868: online at:
James L. Thayer's - 1869, 1870, 1873, 1877, 1880, 1884, 1886
1869 (Henderson & White, proprietors):
[Advertisement] Doct. James L. Thayer's Great Circus and Trained Animal Show, with Prof. Chas. White's den of performing lions. Doct. Jas. L. Thayer, manager. Henderson, White & Co., proprietors. Don't fail to see the grand procession, the Fete of Versaillies, the courtly meeting of royalty and power, on the Field of the Cloth of Gold. King Henry VIII, of England, and Francis I. of France. Procession of knights and dames, days of tilt and tourney. The Car of Aurora, at a cost of $10,000. Representing the four quarters of the globe, Europe, Asia, Africa and America, and bearing upon its summit a living lion loose, free from any restraint save the watchful eye of its keeper, Prof. Chas. White, carried in triumph through the streets. Following this moving tableau of splendor will come the elephant Lala Rookh, bearing an oriental houdah tastefully decorated.
Cincinnati, Oct. 26. The Sheriff has been appointed receiver of Thayer's circus, and the court has orderd the property to be sold. Burlington Semi-Weekly Hawk-Eye (IA), October 27, 1869, p. 1.
Thayer's circus has been seized at Cincinnati by the Sheriff, at the suit of creditors, most of them employees in the company. The suits amount to over $6,000. Blairsville Press (PA), November 5, 1869, n.p.n.
Dr. Thayer's circus was sold recently in Cincinnati, at auction, by the sheriff. It was found impossible to sell the circus bodily for not less than $25,000, as directed by the court, and it was therefore sold by piecemeal. The elephant was knocked down for $1,300, to Adam Forepaugh. The lions went to Oscar H. Normon, for $8,000. The entire proceeds of the sale amounted to a little over $18,000. Gettysburg Compiler (PA), November 19, 1869, n.p.n.
1870 (James Anderson, proprietor):
[Advertisement] Dr. James L. Thayer's New Circus will exhibit at Titusville, Monday and Tuesday, May 9th and 10th. Dr. James L. Thayer, manager. Jas. Anderson, proprietor. The list of principals: Dr. Jas. L. Thayer, clown and humorist. Tom Barry, "Merry England's Favorite Clown," whose late debut at Lent's New York Circus delighted the public. Mr. S. P. Stickney, veteran showman, unequalled as an equestrian director, best ring master in the country. La Belle Loyale, lady equestrienne, from the Cirque Napoleon, Paris, and the Imperial Amphitheatre, St. Petersburgh. A pupil of Rentz, the great European equestrian director. Mr. Wm. Naylor, American horseman and best bare back hurdle rider in the world. Mons. Leon Giavelli with his troupe of performing dogs, among which will be the celebrated canines, Dick and Dash.
1873:
Dr. Thayer's show is to be called Thayer's Great Olympia. The wagons, harness and general outfit will be new. Hawley and Miaco, gymnasts, are to be among the company. New York Clipper, March 8, 1873, p. 391.
C. W. Kidder has left Franklin, Pa., for Girard, to look after Thayer's show, with which he is to travel as agent. New York Clipper, April 5, 1873, p. 7.
1877:
James L. Thayer & Co.'s Great Show will organize and start from Baltimore, Md., for the season of 1877, traveling by rail and boat. New York Clipper, March 17, 1877, p. 407.
Thayer's Great Oriental Circus, traveling by rail and steamboat, starting from Baltimore, Md., about May1, 1877. Balloon ascensions daily. Prof. Jackson's fireworks nightly. The privileges for rent - concert, candy stands, sideshow, etc. A responsible treasurer wanted. Address Dr. James L. Thayer, Ridge avenue, Philadelphia, Pa. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, March 31, 1877, p. 7.
Great United States Circus. Officers: Thayer & Noyes, directors; Dr. James L. Thayer, general director; C. W. Noyes, equestrian director; Charles W. Kidder, general agent; . . . billposters, G. B. Castello, Harry Wheeler, Tony Daily, Harry C. Head, Dr. Ted Hanley, Dixie Irwin; leader of band, Mort(?) Sexton. Clowns: Tom Miaco, Fred Aymer, Dr. James L. Thayer and Billy Young. Performers: entire Lowande Family - Alexander Lowande; Martinho Lowande, bareback rider; Abelardo Lowande, somersault equestrian; Tony Lowande; infant prodigy; Willie Lowande, two and four pony rider; St. ___ and his troupe of twelve trained dogs; the Miaco Family - Tom Miaco, horizontal bars; Ira Miaco, trapeze artist, leaper and tumbler; Miss Jennie Miaco, menage rider; . . . George Richards the modern Hercules; Bill Young, grotesque acrobat and high-stilt performer. Leapers: __ Lowery, J. G. Wheeler, A. S. Burt. Tumblers: G. J. Armstrong, Alex Storms, Charles Austin, Lovelle Monteide(?). Sideshow privilege: J. Tm Hatcher, with W. C. Coup's sea lions, Figi cannibals, Circassian lady and other curiosities. A balloon ascension will take place every afternoon, and fireworks displayed in the evening. Show will start from Baltimore on or about May 1, and travel by rail and boat, visiting the oil regions and the Northwest. . . . New York Clipper, April 21, 1877, p. 31.
The Great United States Circus, under the direction of Thayer & Noyes, will exhibit in Philadelphia during the week ending May 12, making four different stands in said city. The Lowande and Miaco Families, Mlle. Millie, Carlotta Wambold, Emil ___ and Dr. James L. Thayer are the principal features. New York Clipper, May 5, 1877, p. 47.
The United States Circus is billed in Baltimore, Md., May 15, 16, Annapolis 17, Ellicott City 18, Frederick City 19, Martinsburg, Va., 21, Cumberland, Md., 22, 23. C. W. Kidder is the agent. New York Clipper, May 12, 1877, p. 55.
Dr. James L. Thayer's United States Circus, including Martinho and Abelardo Lowande, Mlle. Carlotta Wambold, the Miaco Family, George Richards, St. Elmo and his performing dogs, Emile Garoux and the Suydam Brothers, exhibited in Philadelphia during the week ending May 12, making four different stands, meeting with a fair share of patronage. New York Clipper, May 19, 1877, p. 63.
Thayer & Noyes' United States Circus showed Baltimore, Md., May 16, 17, to poor business. New York Clipper, May 26, 1877, p. 71.
Johnny Saunders joined Thayer & Noyes' United States Circus in Philadelphia, last week. New York Clipper, May 19, 1877, p. 63.
Dr. James L. Thayer has sold his interest in the United States Circus to the Lowande Family, and it will hereafter be known as Lowande's Brazilian Circus. New York Clipper, June 30, 1877, p. 111.
The Great Brazilian Circus (late United States) is reported as having disbanded, owing to bad business and unfavorable weather. Martino Lowande joins Barnum's Show at Chicago, Ill. Abelardo Lowande will probably return home to Philadelphia, and the rest of the company will remain at Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, July 7, 1877, p. 119.
Dr. James L. Thayer's Great Show and London Sensation, recently organized in Pittsburg, Pa., was shipped by rail several days ago from that city to Belle Air, O., where it is contemplated by the management to give the first exhibition on Sept. 15. From there the show will go West and South by steamer. John Burke will be director of publications. New York Clipper, September 15, 1877, p. 199.
1880:
Dr. James L. Thayer has secured financial backing and he states that he intends to make the new concern that he is organizing for the season of 1880 the finest wagon show on the road. Dr. James L. Thayer's Great Show and United Aggregation, wanted, equestrians with their own stock, gymnasts, acrobats, minstrel and variety talent, working agent and brass and string band. Would like to hear from lady ancesionist with specialty for ring. Address James L. Thayer, Pittsburg, Pa. New York Clipper, February 14, 1880, pp. 371, 375.
The last heard of Doc. Thayer [James L. Thayer] was that he was sticking bills in Pittsburg. We now learn from the Post that he is organizing a circus in that city, and will take the road next month. Advance Argus (Greenville, PA), March 25, 1880, n.p.n.
The boys of our town and vicinity will be glad to learn that Dr. Thayer, the veteran circus man, has again entered the saw-dust arena. The Dr. has been living a retired life for several years, but duing the present winter determined again to take the road, and has been in Pittsburg all winter superintending the building of wagons, &c. The outfit, it is said, will surpass anyting ever on the road for beauty, and will be ready to move about the middle of April. As he proposes to first take in Western Pennsylvania, we can expect him about the first of May. Indiana Progress (Indiana, PA), April 1, 1880, n.p.n.
Dr. James L. Thayer's Great Show and United Aggregation will take the road on or about May 1, starting from Pittsburg, Pa. Dr. James L. Thayer is manager and general director; H. F. Davis, treasurer; Eugene A. Wesler, general agent with a brigade of ten men, the show doing all of their own country billing; Philo Nathans, equestrian director; W. Parminter, band leader with silver cornet band of twelve pieces. Equestrians: Samuel Watson, Rudolph Mette, Philo Nathans, Chas. Seebright, Mlle. Cooke, Pauline Saunders, Mme. Thayer. Clowns: Dr. James L. Thayer, Thos. Foster and _. Mette. Other attractions: Hercules, lifting a pair of horses weighing a ton at each performance; La Van Brothers, triple horizontal bars; Baldwin Brothers, acrobats; Milo Brother, triple parterre; E. Baldwin, crystal pyramid . . . Idaletta and Wallace, double trapeze and fish tank performances; Matt Ryan, lealper, assisted by Charles Ducrow; Ed F. Doris, Harry Watson, Ed. Glenroy, Jos O'Brien, and Chas. Anderson. The show has secured Prof. John White's troupe of trained dogs, goats and monkeys. The concert will be given by troupe of lady minsrels, assisted by Gordon and Chambers, musical sketch artists; Frank Stanley, Irish and Dutch comic . . . The show will run all of their own privileges except the sideshow. Lew Jones will have charge of canvas. K. Leslie is boss hostler. . . . New York Clipper, April 3, 1880, p. 11.
Two circus companies are organizing in Pittsburgh for the coming season. One under the veteran Dr. James L. Thayer, and the other by Stickney, the bareback rider. Indiana Weekly Messenger (Indiana, PA), April 7, 1880, n.p.n.
The Ricky Bros. have the sideshow privileges with the Dr. Thayer Show this season.New York Clipper, April 17, 1880, p. 27.
Fredericks and Frank Clifton have left Robert Stickney's Circus and joined Dr. James L. Thayer's, which is to performe in Blackville, W. Va., May 12, Morgantown 13, Geneva, Pa., 14, Brownsville 16; thence to Uniontown 17, Connellsville 18. New York Clipper, May 15, 1880, p. 59.
Dr. Thayer's circus, which arrived in this city yesterday morning to give two performances in Price's lot, adjoining the brick yard, has not, at this writing, been able to leave the town. Their performance in the afternoon was very slimly attended, and those who saw it were not elated with it. A good sized crowd was on the outside. They were orderly, and after seeing what there was to see outside the tent, they left. The evening show was not so largely attended as expected. The performance was good enough of its kind and quantity. There were not more than three or four hundred people in the tent, but on the outside were probably one thousand persons, principally boys and young men from the three wards of this city, South Chester and Upland. It was the worst element of those places - the refuse, the portion of the population that loves disorder more than order, and those who are a terror to the community in which they live.
The poor circus men who were left in this city without a penny have nearly all succeeded in getting out of the place. The performers have all gotten away. Some of the tent men and a few of the musicinas remain. They hung around the hotel yesterday. One by one they made their way to the depot as their claims were acknowledged. The tent, animals and paraphernalia are in Price's lot, under the care of the Sheriff, and will remain there until sold or a satisfactory arrangement is made. The circus was certainly on its last legs when it entered town, for it was compelled to leave one of its horses with the toll gate keeper to pay for the toll. Had it not received such rought treatment at the hands of the mob that surrounded it during the evening performance, the proprietor might have been able to have fixed things up and one on his way. Daily Times (Chester, PA), August 18, 1880, n.p.n.
Tomorrow afternoon Sheriff Rowland will sell the property of Thayer's circus, now distrained at Price's brickyard. Daily Times (Chester, PA), August 25, 1880, n.p.n.
Dr. Jas. L. Thayer's Great Show and United Aggregation exhibited to moderate business in Philadelphia during the week ending Aug. 14. The acts of Chas. Shay, Sam Watson, Rudolph Mette, Philo Nathans, Mr. and Mrs. Leonard, the La Van Brothers, Clifton and Gloss, and Matt Ryan all deserve mention. Feats of strength were performed by Allesandro, real name Richard A. Pennel. . . . Con Fredericks, trapeze artist, met with a serious accident July 16. The trapeze bar became detached from the rope, and Con. fell thirty-five feet to the ground, sustaining serious injuries. New York Clipper, August 21, 1880, p. 171.
We are not surprised that Dr. Thayer, the showman, should have a poor opinion of Chester, Pa., for on the 16th, while his circus was exhibiting in that place, a crowd of impolite Chesterfielders cut the tent ropes, battered the wagons, and damaged the property in various other ways. The hotel keepers attached the concern, and a show printer seized the horses and wagons. New York Clipper, August 28, 1880, p. 182.
Dr. Thayer's circus stranded at West Chester a few days since, the Sheriff gobbling up the entire concern. Indiana Progress (Indiana, PA), September 2, 1880, n.p.n.
• 1881: Dr. James L. Thayer, of circus fame, has been appointed superintendent of the Pittsburgh and East Liberty Passenger Railway. The appointment takes effect on March 1. Warren Ledger (Warren, PA), March 4, 1881, n.p.n.
• 1882: Dr. James L. Thayer joins the Forepaugh show in Washington. Logansport Chronicle (Logansport, IN), April 1, 1882, n.p.n.
• 1883: Dr. Thayer, of Lafayette, who is an old-time circus manager, but of late employed in the L. E. & W. offices, is organizing a stock company with a view to equip a big show with headquarters at Lafayette. He wants $50,000 in $50 shares, upon which he agrees to pay 25 per cent. annum. He has faith in the enterprise. He has a good menagerie in view, and, with the money in hand, could prepare his tents, wagons, etc., in time for the summer season. Logansport Daily Pharos (Logansport, IN), December 5, 1883, n.p.n.
1884: (New York & New Orleans Circus)
The New York and New Orleans Consolidated Shows. Wanted, for seasons of 1884 and 5, by rail and boat, circus talent of every description, except riding; tumblers, leapers, jugglers, knockabout clowns; serio-comic singing lady, brass and string band, with uniform; novel aerial acts, anything new and sensational for the ring and stage. Address Dr. James L. Thayer, Lafayette, Ind. New York Clipper, January 19, 1884, p. 758.
Harry Lawrence, a showman, is in the city and will join "Doc" Thayer's circus, which starts out from Lafayette tomorrow. Billy Stewart, of this city, has a good offer to join Thayer as clown. Fort Wayne Daily Gazette (Fort Wayne, IN), March 4, 1884, p. 6.
D. A. Pullen, aerial gymnast, has been engaged by Dr. Jas. L. Thayer for the New York and New Orleans Consolidated Shows. New York Clipper, March 8, 1884, p. 863.
Billy Scotten has accepted a position with the Great New Orleans and New York Circus, now in winter quarters at Lafayette, and will travel with the same about the middle of next month. Connersville Examiner (Connersville, IN), March 12, 1884, n.p.n.
Dr. Thayer's Circus opens at Lafayette, Ind., May 1. New York Clipper, March 29, 1884, p. 23.
All people engaged for the New York and New Orleans Consolidated Shows will please report at Lafayette, Ind., no later than April 20. Opening date, May 1. Would like to hear from a man with performing dogs, donkeys, etc. Dr. James L. Thayer. New York Clipper, April 19, 1884, p. 76.
Sam Gladstone will be special agent in advance of "Doc" Thayer's Circus. New York Clipper, April 19, 1884, p. 71.
New York and New Orleans Consolidated Shows. Officers: Owned by a stock company; Dr. James L. Thayer, general manager; Samuel H. McFlinn, assistant manager, in charge of all privileges; Wash. Blodgett, general contracting agent; C. T. Wilson, assistant agent; billposters, Col. Moseby, Sam Gladstone and Doc Russell, lithographer, Harry Elick; candy privileges owned by the company; treasurer, Robt. B. Beath. Prof. Chas. Coons, leader of band with 10 musicians; museum director, Prof. Wm. Robinson; master of canvas and assistant not yet engaged; master of horse, Robert Allen. Clowns: Dr. J. L. Thayer, S. H. McFlinn and Wm. Maurittus.
Dr. Thayer, for many years a citizen of Erie county, Pa., and a resident of Girard, has organized a circus or mammoth exhibition known as the New York and New Orleans Consolidated show. Evening Observer (Dunkirk, NY), May 6, 1884, n.p.n.
A telegram was received in Grand Rapids, Mich., last week, stating that Thayer & Noyes' New York and New Orleans Consolidated Shows stranded at Sturgis, Mich. May 21. New York Clipper, May 31, 1884, p. 166.
Dr. Thayer's Lafayette circus has come to grief in Michigan. Logansport Chronicle (Logansport, IN), May 31, 1884, n.p.n.
Doc. Thayer, the veteran showman, formerly of Girard, has made his regular annual "bust up" in the circus business for this season, his "grand consolidated New York and New Orleans combination" going under at the hands of the sheriff at Lafayette, Ind., on the 23d ult. Evening Observer (Dunkirk, NY), June 2, 1884, p. 4.
From one of the employes we learn definite particulars of the collapse of the Thayer's New York and New Orleans Show at Sturgis, Mich., May 22. A Lafayette, Ind., hotel keeper placed an attachment of $250 on the effect to recover on a board bil. All of the performers, canvasmen and grooms were left in a penniless condition, and through the kindness of the Opera house proprietor at Sturgis, were allowed to sleep in the hall for a few nights. They then proceeded to get out of town as best they could. Burt Stowe and wife got to Fort Wayne, Ind., on their trunks; Wash Blodgett, the general agent, left for Chicago, and Sam Gladstone is very sick at Mt. Clemens, Mich. Some of the performers' claims were bought up for ten cents on the dollar by a Sturgis hotel man. New York Clipper, June 7, 1884, p. 182.
1886:
Dr. Jas. L. Thayer's World's Show opens at Charleston, S.C., March 1, at cheap prices. . . . Jack Callahan, boss canvasman is already on hand. The band is from Jersey City, eight mouth pieces. Daniel W. Lester will have charge of the concert, J. C. Warble is treasurer, J. J. Dowling assistant manager and M. T. Tucker, agent. New York Clipper, February 27, 1886, p. 791.
Ed. Martinetti is the equestrian-director of Dr. J. L. Thayer's Circus. He and his three brothers, Nelson, Albert and Louis, have been secured for the season. The Austin Bros., James Joyce, William De Ivey, Millie Lockwood and Prof. Franklin's dog-circus are also with this show. Leon and donkeys and Dr. Thayer's wife and daughter joined at Raleigh, N. C., March 17. J. L. Thayer. Jr. makes his debut at Norfolk, Va. The concert is given by Dan Lester, Chas. Allen, Georgie Bell, John Dowling, Ed. Lockwood and Ed. Martinetti. Thayer pere and fils Nelson Martinetti, Leon and Lockwood are doing the clowns, The show is said to have done well since opening, March 8, at popular prices. New York Clipper March 27, 1886, p. 20.
• 1886: Also see J. C. Warble & Co.
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Thayer, Diefenbach & Lewis' - 1878
Wanted, for Thayer & Diefenbach's Great Show and London Sensation. Acrobats, tumblers, leapers, and trapeze artists, also a clown and troupe of educated dogs, are wanted for Thayer & Diefenback's show, which is to take the road early in April. Address Phil. Diefenbach, Diefenbach Coliseum, Erie, Pa. New York Clipper, February 16, 1878, pp. 375, 376.
Dr. Thayer of Girard, Pa., well-known showman, Phil Diefenbach of Erie, Pa., manager of Coliseum, and B. Lewis, a Western man, have organized at Cincinnati, O., Thayer, Diefenbach & Lewis' Great Show and London Sensation. Thayer is manager, Diefenbach treasurer, and Lewis is assistant manager. The people engaged are Paddy Murphy and wife, variety acts; Leonard and wife, trapeze and triple-rope; Parker with his performing dogs; Blatt, the man-fish; Dora Dawson, vocalist; and the Lenton Brothers. The concern will travel by boat on the Western waters, and exhibit only in river towns. There is no ring, and the performance is a variety show under canvas. New York Clipper, March 16, 1878, p. 407.
Prof. Parker denies that he and his dogs are engaged with Thayer, Diefenbach & Lewis' show for the coming season. The Lenton Brothers state that they are engaged with the Burr Robbins' show, and not with Dr. Thayer's. Dora Dawson writes that she does not travel with Thayer, Diefenbach & Lewis' Circus. New York Clipper, March 23, 1878, p. 415.
Thayer, Diefenbach & Lewis' Great Show. Notice. All persons engaged for the above named show will please report on board the steamboat Jas. M. Kerr at Newport, Ky., opposite Cincinnati, O., April 13. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, April 6, 1878, p. 11.
Lewis, Thayer & Diefenbach's show collapsed at St. Louis, Mo., recently. New York Clipper, June 1, 1878, p. 79.
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Col. C. S. Thompson's - 1889
Prof. George T. Golt, the Punch and Judy expert, is engaged to take charge of the sideshow with C. S. Thompson's Circus, which opens April 1 at Richmond, Va., for a two weeks' stand. The show will travel by rail. New York Clipper, March 30, 1889, p. 39.
Richmond, Virginia. The Musee changed hands last week. Manager C. S. Thompson retired to enter the circus business, which he began in this city 7. New York Dramatic Mirror, April 13, 1889, p. 12.
Col. C. S. Thompson's Big Souvenir Circus opened its season April 1 at Richmond, Va. Roster: Col. C. S. Thompson, proprietor and manager; Frank Dill(?), assistant manager; Tom Parker, treasurer; John Trewalla, advance; Geo. W. Revere, Joseph Cameron, John Lipscomb, C. Mahony, James Chamberlyn, Fletcher Wyatt, Bell Bros., Santon and Parento, George and Lucy Revere, Wm. Daley, Eddie Scofield, Nelson Sinclair, Sig. Lacouse, Adaline Tracy, Mons. Guyette, Chas. and Lillie Retter, Diamond Whitlock, Prof. George T. Golt. The troupe travel by rail in their own cars, and work under a 90ft.(?) round top canvas, with two 30ft. centre pieces. New York Clipper, April 13, 1889, p. 81.
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Thompson & Sinclair - 1892
Thompson & Sinclair’s Twenty-Five Cent Circus is in its fourth week, playing to good houses. The show is made up as follows: Leon Thompson & Sinclair Bros., proprietors; George Edgerton, general manager . . . M. H. Ward, advance agent; Edgerton Sisters, W. Ritzel . . . Mondell Bros. . . . Geo. Edgerton . . . Lizzie Roper . . . New York Clipper August 13, 1892, p. 356.
On the road, circuses: Thompson & Sinclair’s, North Liberty IN Aug 10, Mishawaka 11, Edwardsburg 12, Cassopolis MI 13. New York Clipper August 13, 1892, p. 361.
Wanted, people in all branches of the circus biz to strengthen Thompson & Sinclair Bros.’ Big Twenty-Five Cent Circus. Violinist to double on any instrument in brass. Also boss canvas man. Address per route. Geo. Edgerton, general manager. New York Clipper August 13, 1892, p. 368.
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Thompson, Smith & Howe's - 1866
• 1866: online at Clipper, August 11 (scroll down)
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Wm. Thompson's - 1892
Wanted, for W. M.(N.?) Thompson’s United Railroad Shows, people in all branches of the circus business, except riders; also a good glassblower and a band master. Write Mrs. Daisy Thompson, Princeton, Ill. New York Clipper April 16, 1892, p. 94.
Wanted, for Wm. Thompson’s United Shows, people in all branches except riders. All must be able to do two or more turns. Also a good glassblower and a band of six pieces. Show opens Battle Creek, Mich. May 24(?). Daisey Shelly (Mrs. Wm. Thompson), the fancy sharpshooter, is doing twelve of the most difficult shots on the slack wire. New York Clipper May 21, 1892, p. 172.
C. Asbey(?), who was recently with Miles Orton’s Circus, has signed as general contracting and advance agent for Wm. Thompson’s New Australian Circus, Museum and Menagerie. It is a four car railroad show, and the prices are ten and twenty-five cents. Everything is reported to be in good condition. New York Clipper July 2, 1892, p. 260.
On the road, circuses: Wm. Thompson’s, Michigan City, IN June 29, Benton Harbor MI 30-July 2, St. Joseph 3-5. New York Clipper July 2, 1892, p. 265.
On the road, circuses: Wm. Thompson’s, Paulding OH July 16, Van Wert 18, Rockford 19, Celina 20, Ansonia 21, Greenville 22, Germantown 23, Franklin 25. New York Clipper July 16, 1892, p. 296.
Wanted, for Wm. Thompson’s Circus, Menagerie. People in all branches of the business except riders and musicians. Address per route. Wm. Thompson, prop, Railroad Circus. New York Clipper July 16, 1892, p. 304.
Roster of Wm. Thompson’s United Australian Shows: Wm. Thompson, proprietor and manager; Dan Malcolm, equestrian director; Mark Murphy, boss canvas man, with ten assistants; Harry Foster, boss property man, with four assistants . . . a band of fifteen pieces under the leadership of Prof. H. Irving Reed; Dan Malcolm, Theola, Daisy Thompson . . . Andy G. Hughes, James and Appleton, and R. L. Metcalfe. New York Clipper July 23, 1892, p. 308.
On the road, circuses: Wm. Thompson’s, Celina OH July 20, Ansonia 2?, Greenville ??, Germantown 23, Franklin 25. New York Clipper July 23, 1892, p. 300.
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Thorn, Besley & Thorn - 1896
Thorn, Besley & Thorn's Show is in its eighth week in New York State. Fred Paul, gymnast, and John Wilkinson, cornetist and leader, joined July 4, at Wilson, New York. New York Clipper, July 11, 1896, p. 293.
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Thorne's European Circus - 1887-88
1887:
The roster of Thorne's European Circus: Dr. Charley & Ed. Thorne, proprietors; Billy Brewster, Major Johnson, Mons. Beers, the Thornes, James Burton, Pawnee Jack, Broncho Ed, and a band of eight pieces. They opened at Evansville, Ind., July 30, to good business. New York Clipper, August 6, 1887, p. 326.
1888:
Edward Thorne, in conjunction with Charles Baker, run a wagon circus. New York Clipper, March 17, 1888, p. 2.
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W. T. Thornton's St. Louis Circus - 1880-81 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1880
1880:
Stewart W. Davis, ringmaster and equestrian director, and Miss Annie Worland, equestrian and tight-rope walker, now with the St. Louis Circus. New York Clipper, January 31, 1880, p. 355.
The St. Louis Circus exhibited in Donaldsonville, La., Jan. 31, Thibodeaux, Feb. 1 . . . Sam McFinn has succeeded Matt Leland as agent. New York Clipper, February 7, 1880, p. 363.
Thornton's St. Louis Circus shipped from wagons in steamer and left Vicksburg, Miss. Route down river, and then return to visit the river country. The company was reinforced in Vicksburg by the Kincade Family, acrobats. New York Clipper, February 14, 1880, p. 371. In Parkinson's, 1880, William T. Thornton, owner.
Billy Andrews, who has again entered the arena as clown after a retirement of many months, is at present filling an engagement with the St. Louis Circus. Four cages of animals were added to the menagerie Feb. 1. New York Clipper, February 21, 1880, p. 379.
Thorton's circus and menagerie will exhibit in Decatur on Thursday, July 29. Daily Republican (Decatur, IL), July 13, 1880, n.p.n.
Clem Davis, press agent for Thornton's famous Berlin museum, menagerie and St. Louis circus and cosmopolitan allied shows, arrived in the city yesterday, and gave us a call today. This show will exhibit in Decatur on July 29th. Daily Republican (Decatur, IL), July 16, 1880, n.p.n.
Sam Gladstone is to join Thornton's Circus and Menagerie in Marksville, La., Jan. 1, 1881. New York Clipper, December 25, 1880, p. 315.
• 1880: Wm. T. Thornton's Famous Berling Museum and Menagerie, St. Louis Circus and Cosmopolitan Allied Shows was in Kansas in August, 1880. The advertisements featured five great clowns, Billy Andrews, Johnnie Lawton, Chas. Bell, Sam McFlinn and Chas. Cavillo. Sea lions and a crocodile were also featured. More information on the show is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1988, Vol. 32, No. 1, pp. 45-46.
1881:
Thornton's St. Louis Circus has been seized at the instance of the owners of the steamboat Granite State for $1,861 rent. Decatur Daily Republican (Decatur, IL), January 13, 1881, n.p.n.
W. T. Thornton's Circus and Menagerie collapsed in Algiers, La. (opposite New Orleans), Jan. 11. A correspondent with the concern says: "Mr. Thornton 'jumped the show' the previous night, going to his home in Shelbyville, Ill., and leaving one hundred and nine people without employment. The Stowe Family attached the show for $1,400. Sam Gladstone intends remaining in New Orleans, La., until March 1, when he is to join the BarnumpLondon Show." New York Clipper, January 22, 1881, p. 347 (847?).
Wm. H. Stowe purchased for $1,200 the entire circus and menagerie belonging to Wm. T. Thornton, which was sold by Sheriff's sale in New Orleans, La., Jan. 18. Mr. Stowe intends to refit the show and start from there by rail about March 1. New York Clipper, January 29, 1881, p. 355.
W. T. Thornton, of Shelbyville, gave a circus performance in Decatur, on North Church street, on the 29th of last July. Recently the company went to pieces at Algiers, Louisiana, and young Thornton left the company and returned to his home in Shelbyville, leaving about 120 people away from home to whom he was indebted about $8,000. He made an assignment of the circus property to some one before leaving. Decatur Weekly Republican (Decatur, IL), February 3, 1881, n.p.n.
• More information on W. T. Thornton's show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1986, Vol. 30, No. 3, p. 17.
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Tiger Bill's Wild West - 1911
Tiger Bill's Wild West No. 1. D. W. Perrine, proprietor and manager; Mrs. D. W. Perrine, treasurer; Wm. Gannett, general agent; Wm. McConkey, equestrian director; Fred Snyder, supt. privileges; Floyd J. Pike, musical director; C. Snyder, supt. reserved seat tickets; Ira McCormick, supt. canvas; Fred Snyder, supt. commissary dept. Show opens at Eaton Rapids, Michigan, April 27. Billboard, April 29, 1911, p. 60.
• See Perrine's Dog & Pony Show.
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Young Tiger Bill Wild West - 1919
Leo Snider [Synder?] (Young Tiger Bill), following in the footsteps of his father, Emmett D. Snider, formerly owner-manager of the Tiger Bill Wild West, has launched his own show under the title of the Young Tiger Bill Wild West. Mr. Snider is working through the Central States toward the Southeast, traveling by auto trucks and wagons. Mr. Snider is a bucking horse and trick rider, as well as an expert with the rifle. He is carrying about four hundred feet of sidewall for his arena, with an 80 foot canopy over the seats. The veteran Doc Pike is with it. The show expects to remain out all winter. Billboard, September 13, 1919, p. 73.
Information on the shows using the Tiger Bill title is online at Bandwagon, February 1945 (scroll down).
• An article on Leo Snyder's 1952 Tiger Bill's Wild West Show, including the history of the title, is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1989, Vol. 33, No. 6, pp. 25-29.
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Circus Tihany - 1989 (South America)
This show made its first North American tour in 1989, owner Franz Czeisler. Information is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1990, p. 7.
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Tilman George's - 1890
The following is the roster of Tilman George’s Wagon Show and Trained Horse Exhibition: Tilman George, sole proprietor and manager; Dello(?) and Le Roy, assistant managers; Wm. Moore, advance agent with four assistants; Wm. Dunlap, treasurer; Frank Scott, equestrian director . . . James Butler . . . Lavard Bros. . . . Lulu Cox; the Davis Sisters . . . Dello and Le Roy; Bert Johnson, boss hostler . . . The show opened May __. New York Clipper May 31, 1890, p. 183.
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Circus Tivoli - 1981 (Canada)
• J. Sergei Sawchyn opened a new European style circus at Toronto, April 15, 1981. The program consisted of European acts from Denmark, France, Portugal and Austria, as well as North and South American acts. An article in Circus Report, June 28, stated that the show folded due to poor business. Bandwagon, January-February, 1982, p. 10.
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TNT & Royal Olympic Circus - 1978-79, 1983-85
1978: Owner Earl Tegge began the season at San Bernadino, California. Bandwagon, January-February, 1979, p. 18.
1979: Earl Tegge toured his show mostly in the mid-West. Bandwagon, January-February, 1980, p. 18.
• Brief information on the 1981 show is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1982, p. 15.
1983: Earl Tegge toured his TNT & Royal Olympic show from February to October, its 23rd year. It was said to be the oldest shopping center promotion shows. Bandwagon, January-February, 1984, p. 13.
1984: The show played exclusively shopping malls in 1984. It closed at Fort Wayne, Indiana in late October. Bandwagon, January-February, 1985, p. 11.
1985: This small show again played shopping malls, opening its 25th season in February in Torrance, California. The tour was curtailed by the death of owner Earl Tegge in April. Bandwagon, January-February, 1986, p. 14.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1973-1980.
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Toby Tyler Circus - 1984-87
1984: A new show in 1984, the Toby Tyler Circus, out of Sarasota, was owned by Dick Garden and Ron Morris. The show opened mid-June in Virginia. Bandwagon, January-February, 1985, p. 9.
1985: The show had a more extensive route than its maiden season in 1984. At at few repeat stands it used the title Tom Mix Circus. The tour opened in late April in Florida and ended at Winter Haven, Florida in mid-October. Bandwagon, January-February, 1986, p. 7.
1986: The show opened at Sebring, Florida March 31. By May the show was in difficulty due to numerous alleged phone soliciation and state safety laws. The result was that many dates were blown when local officials prohibited the show from their areas. The show also had their bleachers collapse during at least three dates. Other problems resulted and the show finally closed on September 21. In 1986 eleven states either filed lawsuits or were investigating alleged fund raising and phone promotion violations. Bandwagon, January-February, 1987, pp. 5-6.
1986: Dick Garden's circus was banned from doing business in New York State and Vermont in 1987. It opened at Lake Wales, Florida April 28 and arrived back in winter quarters on October 6. The show used the Sterling Bros. title on some dates. Read about the 1987 show in Bandwagon, January-February, 1988, pp. 8-9.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1985-88, Richard Garden, owner.
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Todd Bros. Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1931
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Tompkins' Wild West - 1912-17 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1910-1917
1912: Tompkins Wild West - Tompkins Western Attraction Company, props.; Chas. H. Tompkins, mgr.; Mabel Hackney, treas.; H. W. Turner, railroad contractor; M. A. Turner, local contractor; George L. McFarlane, special agent and contracting press agent; Thos. Molineaux, equestrian director; Slim McPherson, general supt.; Peter Bloom, supt. privileges; Arthur Donaldson, musical director; Mabel Hackney, supt. reserved seat tickets; Henry Kolonuku(?), supt. canvas; Erwin Decker, trainmaster; Frank Schoo?, boss hostler; Tom Molineaux, supt. commissary dept.; James Pidcock, supt. lights; Slim McPherson, supt. properties; Frank Schoot(?), supt. ring stock; Henry Kolunuku, supt. working crew; James Pidcock, boss carpenter; Erwin Decker, announcer. Show opened at Sanford, Fla., March 4. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
1913: Thompkins' Wild West Shows and Cooper & Whitby's Circus Combined - Al F. Wheeler and Thompkins' Wild West Company, proprietors; Chas. H. Thompkins, manager; Geo. J. Bass, assistant manager; M. A. Turner, treasurer; Miss Mable Hackney, secretary; H. W. Turner, auditor; George M. Forepaugh, general agent; Chas. Hackney, railroad contractor; Thos. Mack, local contractor; J. E. Pettit, special agent and contracting press agent; Geo. L. McFarlane, press agent back with show; Frank Adair, sideshow manager; Jack L. Duncan, equestrian director; Jas. Pidcock, general superintendent; Lillian Gelder, superintendent privileges; Spencer F. Williams, musical director; M. I. Hackney, superintendent reserved seat tickets; Chas. Cooper, superintendent canvas; Ed. P. Barlow, boss hostler; Mrs. E. P. Barlow, superintendent commissary department; Henry Bluefeather, superintendent lights; Will Horn, superintendent props; Walter Erwin, superintendent ring stock; Samuel Gelder, 24-hour agent; Doc Hastings, superintendent animals; Frank Day, blacksmith; H. W. Turner, legal adjuster; Will Jaques, announcer. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
• 1913: Show was at Mystic, Conn., September 14, 1913. Bandwagon, December, 1943, Vol. 2, No. 7, p. 2.
1914: Tompkins' Wild West & Cooper-Whitby's Circus: Al F. Wheeler & Tompkins Wild West Co., proprietors; Chas. H. Tompkins, manager; Adam Gillespie, assistant manager; Mabel Hackney, treasurer & secretary; M. Zednay, auditor; Geo. M. Forepaugh, general agent; H. McGowan, local contractor; John E. Pettit, special agent, Geo. M. Forepaugh, contracting press agent; Chas. W. Gallagher, advance press agent; Mabel Hackney, press agent back with show; Milton Zednay, manager sideshow; Chick Varnell, equestrian director; Jim Pidcock, general supt.; S. Zednay, supt. privileges; Carl Mitchell, musical director; Geo. Asplund, supt. reserved seat tickets; P. S. McPherson, supt. canvas; John Farrell, boss hostler; Dell Admas, supt. commissary dept.; Chas. Cox, supt. lights; A. Dulaney, supt. props.; Frank Scott, supt. ring stock; Hughey McGowan, 24-hour agent; Jim Pidcock, boss carpenter; Geo. Herbert, blacksmith; Chas. W. Gallagher, manager advance wagon No. 1; Jack Rea, manager advance wagon No. 2; Chas. Hackney, manager advance wagon No. 3; Geo. Brown, checker-up; Adam Gillespie, legal adjuster; Will James, announcer. Show opens at Lambertville, N.J., April 24. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 49.
1917: Tompkins’ Wild West Show - Chas. H. Tompkins, prop.; Mal Bates, asst. mgr.; M .H Tompkins, treas. and secy.; M. A. Turner, suditor; C. O. Hackney, gen. agt.; H. W. Turner, local contractor; Chas. V. Hackney and Roy Atkins, special agts.; M. A. Turner, contracting press agent; G. Weldo Gregory, mgr. side-show; Ray Jones, equestrian dir.; John Costello, gen. supt.; M. H. Tompkins, supt. privileges; Carl Mitchell, musical dir.; Chick Varnell, supt. reserve seat tickets; John Thomas, supt. canvas; Dell Adams, supt. commissary dept.; Red Richardson, supt. lights; Ben Ray, supt. props.; Augustine Onteverios, supt. ring stock; Geo. Thompson, supt. working crew; D. Williams, supt. animals; H. B. Lee, blacksmith; Roy Atkins, mgr. auto No. 1; Chas. V. Hackney, mgr. auto No. 2; Mal Bates, checker-up; Doc Deming, announcer; twenty-six wagons and three machines. Show opens at Warsaw, Va., April 21. Billboard, March 24, 1917, pp. 141, 143.
• An article on the Tompkins Wild West Show, 1913-17, with information on Charles H. Tompkins' career, is online in Bandwagon, Mar-Apr 1971.
• An article on the physical aspects and methods of operation of Tompkins Wild West Show, 1913-17, is online in Bandwagon, May-Jun 1971 (scroll down or use find).
• Supplement to the articles on Tompkins Wild West is online in Bandwagon, Nov-Dec 1971 (scroll down or use find).
1918: Winter quarters. Tompkins' Wild West Shows, Chas. H. Tompkins, proprietor, Masontown, Pa.; office, El Reno, Ok. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 55.
• 1919: Charles W. Tompkins, owner of Tompkins' Wild West Show, will not take his show on the road this season, but plans to come forth with a larger aggregation next year. He is still in the auto business at El Reno, Ok., where they have a home. Mr. Tompkins has not been in good health for a long time with stomach trouble. Billboard, May 3, 1919, p. 34.
• More on the 1919 Tompkins Wild West show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down or use find.
• Note: This show or people might be found on other pages on this website. Check out Billboard, Clipper, and/or do a Search
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Toole, Warner, & Guilbault's - 1863
• 1863: is online at Clipper, April 4 (scroll down)
• See Mile's Circus Royale.
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Towle's - 1882
Towle's circus exhibited in this place last Monday to good sized audiences. We did not attend, but have heard the performances well spoken of by those who did. Wautoma Independent (Wautoma, WI), September 1, 1882, n.p.n.
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Trapeze Bros.
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Jim Travis - 1892
Wanted, for Jim Travis’ Best Show on Earth, riders with their own stock, tumblers, wire walkers and trapeze performers, male and female. Would like to hear from a man with a small elephant that is trained. Long season. Must be in Grand Rapids June 1. Want boss canvas man who can do other work. Jim Travis. 67 Canal Street, Grand Rapids, Mich. New York Clipper May 21, 1892, p. 173.
Wanted, for Jim Travis Best Show on Earth, riders with their own stock. Must be on hand Jun 7(?). Open June 11. Grand Rapids, Mich. New York Clipper June 4, 1892, p. 205.
Grand Rapids, Michigan. Travis Circus at Reed’s Lake 11. New York Clipper June 18, 1892, p. 229.
Jim Travis’ Show. The show opened its season June 11. The roster: James Travis, sole proprietor; Willard Stanton, general manager; Judd Spore, treasurer; Willard Stanton and Harry Goine(?), equestrian directors . . . We carry forty(?) head of stock. . . . This is the outfit of the Burr Robbins’ Imperial Shows. . . . Geo. Dunbar and wife, De Marrow Bros. . . . Parrell and Mereno(?), Richard Place, Anna Place . . . James Harding . . . Mr. Swentland has charge of the privileges, and L.(?) Taber of the reserved seats. This show will travel by rail, commencing in the northern part of Michigan, although the heavy rains of the last forty days marred our opening. The sun shone bright and clear opening day. Our first meal in our cook tent was one long to be remembered, as Mr. Travis sat at the head with the entire party. Manager Stanton personally attended to the billing and press work of our opening. A funny incident happened in our opening parade. As Mr. Travis and Mr. Stanton were leading the parade the former ___ a horseshoe in the street; the latter sprang from the buggy, pushed the leader of the band team one side and secured the omen of good luck. It is now a piece of furniture in Treasurer Spore’s(?) ticket wagon. Sunday the performance was witnessed by the Richard’s Show, numbering thirty-nine people. The Edgertons, Geo., May and Lily, joined us ___. New York Clipper June 25, 1892, p. 244.
Notes from Jim Travis’ "Best Show on Earth." Our opening week at Reed’s Lake was a grand success, and, despite the rain and mud, we gave fourteen performances. All that time we had to work in a ring with from four to six feet of "mud and muck." Frank Melville says that in his thirty years of riding he never saw so muddy a ring. During our stay at the lake a large passenger boat was launched, and our entire company were invited to go aboard and slide into the water. It was a grand sight, amid the music of our band and the waving of the national colors. Chas. P. Watson, our hurdle rider, was the last to board the boat, and, as it was christened the Watson, Charlie says it was named after him. We played against the Richard Railroad Show, and on Sunday received a visit from Dick Sutton. As he gazed on our large crowd he said: "This is the first big house I have seen this week." We moved to the South End on the 2?th, and played to the capacity on the week. On the 2?th we gave a children’s matinee in honor of Colin(?) B. Melville, our boy rider, when twelve hundred children were present. The ___ accident of the season happened 2?, when Geo. Dunbar, in doing his breakaway single trapeze, with his wife, Lottie, took a header from the top of the tent, and landed on his head outside the ring bank. He was stunned for a moment, but quickly ___ and finished his act amid great applause. Our concert is a feature. We move to the West Side 27 to July 4, when we take the road. This is the only twenty-five cent show that has ever played the town three weeks. . . . Mr. Travis is making final arrangements for a sideshow, as animals arrived from Texas yesterday. . . . every Saturday appears as the man in white. . . . New York Clipper July 2, 1892, p. 261.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Trevino's Mexican - 1890, 1892-94, 1909
1890:
Roster of Trevino’s Mexican Circus: . . . Pedro Gomez Sr., Leonicio Nava, Prof. Geo. Wambold and Sig. Sr. Daniel Meza Jr. . . . Isidro de Trevino . . . Shorty Baker, boss canvasman, and ten assistants . . . Ben Thompson, chandelier man . . . Business through Texas is reported big. New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 791.
Warning! Oscar Lowande is advertising for acts, using the Sig Sautelle name in his ads. Oscar Lowande has no right to use that name. He had a contract for season of 1917 to use the Sig Sautelle title, but he failed to fulfill his part of the agreement and the contract was broken. The only show that can use the Sig Sautelle name is the Sautelle-Demarest Circus, in which I am personally interested. Sig Sautelle, Newark, New Jersey. [Advertisement] Billboard, April 5, 1919, p. 31.
1877:
• An article on the Sells Bros., winter 1878-79, is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1986, Vol. 30, No. 2, pp. 33-34.
• Information on the 1890 Sells Bros. & S. H. Barrett's show is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1992, Vol. 36, No. 1, pp. 51-54.
There are six cages in the menagerie, but these are supplemented by three tableaux wagons and a water buffalo, and the arrangement of the candy stands does away with all suggestion of bareness, and conveys an impression that is satisfactor to the average visitor. The tops are by Murray, the menagerie being a 65 with two 30 foot middle pieces, and the big top 100 (which lays out 103), with two 50 foot middles.
The ring performance, however, is great, and proved not only a great surprise, but a source of wonder to all present. It is a safe bet to assert that it is the best offered by any ten-car show on the road. "Stick" Davenport is riding in great form. Rose Marretta is at her best, and her protege, Miss Edna, is certainly a wonder. A great many marvelous things have been said about this young lady's riding lately, some of which have seemed at times to have been over-drawn or at least over enthusiastic. Since witnessing her act, however, we are able to state unequivocally that it is the most finished, graceful and daring lady principle act in America. The ease with which she throws somersaults and the lack of effort with which she regains her balance and easy poise are unequaled. . . . "Stick" Davenport is also entitled to unbounded praise. His riding this year is far and away above average. He has improved most wonderfully.
The clown band is another pleasing feature of the performance, and Harry Tyler's high diving dog, "Charlie," is fairly entitled to recognition as such also. This dog climbs a perpendicular ladder of 40 rounds to a platform right under the hood of the canvas and jumps to a net. His work is all done joyously, barking and with tail wagging. He enjoys it and requires no orders or cues from Tyler from the time he starts up the ladder.
The seating capacity as we said before, was rather limited, but this has been remedied ere this. The blues are ten tiers hight and the rerserves eight tiers high. There are two side shows, one the regulation museum, the other a hooche-coochee joint generally uptown. The concert is fairly good, as concerts go. Bunk Allen and John barton have all the privileges. John Talbert does the fixing. Genial Nobby Clark is selling belts. John Hummel is manager in the absence of Mr. Sells, who perforce obliged to jump on the advance frequently. Shorty green has the stock, and it is all good stock, too. It was nearly all supplied by Gray, who, by the way, has had several seasons' experience in a small way, and bids fair to develop into a able showman.
There are ten cars, and, resplendent in new paint, they make a very brave appearance. Mr. Sells is deserving of great credit. Every one who knows the disadvantages under which he labored, and the difficulties that he had to encounter, will acknowledge that he has accomplished wonders. He has succeeded in organizing a show that will make money if it is kept in the towns in which it belongs and it gets its share of good weather. Billboard, May 21, 1900, p. 5.
• An article on the Sells-Floto Circus, 1906 is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1984, Vol. 28, No. 1, pp. 28-37.
Clowns: Edward Nemo, Freddie Biggs, Jack Harris, Gene Dearth, Jack Bees, Robert Marr, Tracey Andrews, George Dayotn, Edward Sheck, Harry Bachman, "Happy" Wills, Emery Swartwood, "Friday" Wright, Edward Hammer, Lindsey Wilson, Homer Hobson, Hal Berg, Clyde Charless, Dick Frineds, Major Donaway. Candy stands: M. P. Burtis, superintendent; Charles Hoyt, assistant; H. A. Morgan, No. 1 stand; Bert Slocum, No. 2 stand; Marks Davis, Schuyler Harris(?), Harry Gilmore, George Telford, Charles High, Walter McDonald, "Speedy" Tignor, Eugene Weeks. Lunch stand: Joseph Thompson, manager; Mr. Donavan, assistant. Hamburger concession, N. C. Cushenberry, manager; Perry Briggs, assistant. Balloons, James O'Connell and Saylor Neal. Bill car No. 1, Emory O. Proffit, car manager; Joseph Taggert, boss billposter; William Buchman, W. Ferris, P. Cummings, F. Burt, F. Gardner, R. Wells, B. Thatcher, Ed Howard, H. Kimburgh, N. McGuiness, Bert Stout, N. Newman, Bob Mariman, billposters; Bert Stanley, Fred Cummings, N. Powell, lithographers; Chas. Sickles, porter. Andrew Miller, Ed Ross, "Spider" Kelley, Joe Kelley, Howard Stitt, Ed Rodenborn, Mac DeVeer, porters of Gentry car. Car No. 2, Patrick Gallagher, car manager; Walter Mische, Kenneth Corbett, Willis Busby, Al V. Berlin, Carl Smooth, Earl Haynes. Cookhouse: George Utley, steward; Joseph H. Peitier, head waiter; Russell Burke, chef; Chas. Foote and George Schuster, assistants; Chas. A. Cisek, Earl Pulsifer, Ignace Black, Earl Gaffney, Henry Benster, George Turner, Alex Yaker, Otto Hans, George Molitor, Jack Chrispeyn, Carl Kolsen, Walter E. Woodward, Otto S. Locken, Clifford Beitier, Robert Soderberg, Dan Smith, Harry Johnson, L. Brown, Charles Edwards, Harold K. Wilson, waiters. Billboard, June 29, 1918, p. 27.
At last night's performance, shortly after the opening, the benches to the right of the reserved seats gave way and precipitated all the occupants to the ground. Fortunately no one was seriously hurt. The manager announced that it was the fault of the man who put up the benches; that there were new seats outside, but they had not been put up. He also said that chairs had been ordered and would be there in a few minutes, but they never came. The performance proceeded, and in a few moments half a dozen of the oil lamps suspended from the centre pole of the tent exploded and blazed up. There was about to be a stampede, but the lights were quickly lowered and those lamps that exhibited a weakness for remaining properly lighted were extinguished. The thread of the show was again taken up, and in a few moments a crash was heard, and there lay the reserved seats on the ground. The parties managed to extricat themselves, and quite a number left for fear of another disaster. A bench or two broke on the other side of the tent, and then the show proceeded without interruption to the end. At the close the manager stated that he was sorry that the accidents had occurred, but attributed them to some mischievous boys on the outside, who had pulled at the ropes or poles or something, that caused the benches to give way as they did. He evidently forgot that he attributed the first fall to the negligence of the man who had put up the benches. New benches have been ordered and the seats will be so secured today as to be beyond accident. Salt Lake Daily Tribune (Salt Lake City, UT), July 29, 1884, n.p.n.
Company: Zazel, the human projectile; equestrians - the Carlo Family - Fred, George, Amelia, Hattie, Harry and Kincade and the infant prodigies, Murray and Arden. Gymnast - the Three Ryan Brothers, Willie Washburn, Planell and Short, Donald McDonald. Frank Victor and the Saunders Brothers, equilibrists. Other specialties - Fred Knight and his performing elephants, Young Ajax, Young Victor, contortionists; Harry Mack, equilibrist; Leon Whettoney, animal impersonator; the Carlo Midgets on the trapeze; Prof. Neil Smith's Dog circus, Lorbie and Holland, Greco-Roman gladiators; stud of nine educated Barbary steeds, introduced by Prof. F. Carlo; the riding Cynocephalus; the Seven Wonders, consisting of seven sisters with a wealth of silken tresses. Five clowns - Dan Shelby, Billy Andrews, Chas. Saunders, Marzetti and John McVickers.
The menagerie consists of thirty cages of animals, a herd of elephants, including "Emperor," a drove of camels, a pair of sea lions, two fur seals, living alligators, and a sea-elephant. In the procession will appear six new tableaux cars and the new golden chariot containing Professor Erwin Keppens' Silver Saxhorn Band, the new Oriental chariot Mahomet, containing a band of 15 native Zulus, followed by all of the performres mounted. Number of horses, 150, number of men employed, 225; two trains of cars are used; two advertising coaches. Crosby & Harper are the proprietors of the sideshow privileges - canvas 60ft. round top, six living freaks of nature, Slave Troupe of Jubilee Singers, eight in number; magician, a fire king, and English Marionette Troupe, a den of serpents and a cage of crocodiles. Lavere & Ashley have the candy privileges. The concert will be under the direction of the managers. The consolidated shows will make a tour of Canada. New York Clipper, April 16, 1881, p. 54.
It appears that a "hoodlum" named Nicholas Hurst and two or three others of the same ilk attempted to crawl under the canvas, but were caught, and in the row which followed Hirst was struck on the head by a club in the hands of a canvasman. This was the beginning of the riot. Five of the circus men were severely injured by stones. After the performance came to an end, a crowd of several hundred roughs lingered about the tents taunting the circus men and refusing to allow them to take down the canvas. After several knockdowns and numerous pistol shots the tents and paraphernalia were loaded on wagons and hauled to the depot, followed by the roungs. The circus men were compelled to load their freight in cars in the depot yard. The roughs to the number of several hundred stationed themselves on the hill, and whenever a showman appeared he was greeted with yells and a shower of stones. After several hours' fighting the circus property was loaded and the crowd dispersed. Titusville Herald (Titusville, PA), July 26, 1881, n.p.n.
The equestrian constellation: Mr. Harry Cardona, Madame Cardona, Mr. Wm. Aymar, Mr. James Ward. Little Mary Brown, remarkable equestrienne, nine years of age. Madame Brown, M'lle Josephine, Barrei Brothers, Mr. Jas. De Morest, Mons. La Clerq, Mr. Morris Conner, Mr. Richard Ball, Mons. La Moyne, Mr. Eugene La Tort, Signer Palletier, and a host of auxilliaries.
The grand street parade will take place daily at 10 a.m., headed by the Car of Aurora, containing the European Military Brass Band. Followed by the elephant in his royal trappings, the camels, the massive rhinoceros den. All the performing horses and ponies, and a long line of gorgeously decorated animal dens. 2 exhibitions each day, afternoon & night. Doors open at 1 and 7 p.m. Circus performance begins one hour later. Admission 50 cents, children under 9, 25 cents. Exhibition given under a mammoth pavilion capable of seating 4,000 spectators, brilliantly illuminated in the evening. Seats for everybody. Gentlemanly ushers an animal keepers constantly in attendance.
Titusville, Tuesday, May 16, 1871. Tidioute, Monday 15; Pleasantville, Wednesday 17; Pet. Centre, Thursday 18; Rouseville 19; Oil City 20; Franklin 21. Titusville Herald (PA), May 5, 1871, n.p.n.
"For fourteen years he was with Ringling Brothers' world's greatest shows, starting with them in the early days when they traveled by wagon, and never thought of making a town of over 3,000 in population. He and Al Ringling have ridden for hours in the mud and rain, and walked up many a steep hill to give the tired horses less work. What was he doing all this time? Oh, riding bareback and doing a jockey act. He was the first bareback rider the Ringlings ever had.
"During his first visit to Old Mexico he fell in a bounding jocky act at Vera Cruz and broke his left leg just below the knee. Two years afterward in this country he broke the same leg, which accident put him out of the ring. He has been assistant equestrian director with the Ringling for several years, and the coming season will be with the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' show as equestrian manager, the season opening at Columbus, Ohio . . .
"None the less interesting is the history of Mrs. Shipp, who is known professionally by her maiden name, Julia Lowande. Together with her brothers, Alex and Cecil, she comes of a family of equestrians known the world over. Alexander Lowande Sr., their father, was born in Boston in 1821, and was the first man to take an American circus to Brazil. He was a heavy property owner in that country, and a personal friend of the emperor, Dom Pedro. During the winter of 1865 he came to America with his own company, known as Lowande's Brazilian circus. During his stay in Brazil, he married twice and raised large families of children. The mother of the trio who have been seen here is his third wife, and was born at Kingston, Island of Jamacia. She now resides at Petersburg, and cares for the ten-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Shipp while they are away.
"L. F. Sunlin lives in Grand Rapids, Mich. He has been in the show business 2? years, all the time in the trained animals' act. The bull which he had here is seven years old. The principal act is the pedestal act, the pedestal being six inches square, and the animal mounting it with his four feet. The animal does several trick acts which no trick horse has ever done.
"Phil King lives in Cleveland, Ohio, and has been in the show business for 17 years. He was one of the King Bros., as acrobats until 1902, when he fell and broke his left shoulder, which disable him for a long time. He invented the revolving ladder act, which gave good satisfaction during his stay here, the only aerial talking act in America today. For six years he was one of the laughing features of Ringling Bros.' circus. He is 33 years old and will play this season in parks and fairs. Since King has been on the ladder comedy, he has had many imitators, but he still leads them all.
"George Zammert, fourteen years at it, lives in Cincinnati, the home of the Prince of Pilsen, and plays this year with the Da Coma family at parks and fairs. He has been with the Ringling Bros., as a clown, for the past eight years. He is now an understander of the Da Coma family in acrobatic work. His work is first class and he is a genial fellow to meet.
"Eddie De Van, who lives in Philadelphia, has been in the business 18 years, and is the youngest double somersault leaper over animals in the world. He is 24 years old, and is the middle man with the Da Coma Family. He is the trick ground tumbler.
"George Hartzell has been in the show business for 22 years, beginning when he was a small boy. His home is in Philadelphia. He goes with Ringling Bros. this season. He has been with all the big shows in the world and his work is first class, never failing to please the audience. His part on the revolving ladder with King is worthy of special mention. The old practice of telling stories and singing songs has been relegated and the mechanical style is given. Prince, the trick dog, is a wonder. He performs his part in the ring as faithfully as any member of the company. Hartzell's work as a clown is pronounced among the best of his class.
"Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Carroll are both old time circus people. Mr. Carroll is treasurer for Mr. Shipp during his winter term, but next season will play the steam calliope for the Barnum & Bailey show, which opens in Madison Square Garden, New York city, March 10. Mr. Carroll has been in the show business for 15 years, and Mrs. Carroll ever since she was 2 1/2 years old. Formerly she was one of the Stirk family, bicycle riders. Their home is in Petersburg, Ill. Mrs. Carroll does her part well on the tight wire, performing some new tricks of her own. She performs with flying rings to the pleasure of all her audience. Her work is the best of the kind ever seen here. They have a 16-months-old baby which is here with them, but which stays with its grandmother during the circus season. Mrs. Carroll will, of course, accompany her husband with the Barnum & Bailey show.
"Mr. Da Coma lives in Cincinnati. He, however, owns a fine farm in Kentucky and spends as much of his time there as possible. He has a regular gymnasium built and some of his best feats are originated there. He has been in the show business since 1816(?). This season the Da Coma family, eight in number, are the premier acrobats of the world. For eight years they were with the Ringling Bros. in a special act. They are the first people ever to introduce the somersault 'up and down, three high.' They will play at parks and fairs during the coming season.
"Lon Moore, a first class clown, has been in the business fifteen years. His home in Defiance, Ohio, and he goes with the Wallace show the coming season. For five years he was with the John Robinson show. He made is debut in clown work in West India islands several years ago. He is a good fellow wherever you see him.
"Art Adair, clown, lives in Chicago, and has been a clown for twenty years. He goes with the Barnum show the coming season. Mr. Adair is an acrobatic performer and works in some good things. His girl leap over animals, raising a parasol, raises much mirth, also his barber show. He is an accomplished musician and is a good man in any show on or off the stage, being a performer on a number of instruments.
"The Hobsons go with Ringling Bros. the coming season. Mr. Hobson comes of an old show family. His brothers have a show of their own and are traveling in the south at the present time. The Hobsons do a double carrying act and a double jockeying act, and they do them to perfection.
"Cecil and Alex Loande, brothers, have been in the show business all their lives. Their home is in Petersburg, Ill. Cecil is 26(?) years old and his special act is bareback riding, turning the backward somesault while the horse is running. He goes with Gollmar Bros. Alex Lowande, bareback rider, does a backward somersault. His mule hurdle takes well and he is a good acrobat. Next season he gose with Forepaugh & Sells Bros. Both of these boys are brothers of Mrs. Shipp and are the best of fellows." Cedar Rapids (IA) Sunday Republican, February 1, 1903, p. 5.
"Circus vs. Mechanics. Rather a strange comparison. There are tricks of all trades, but some are much harder to master than others and the different branches of circus business are all separate and distinct and all have their secrets and systems. For instance, the difference between performing in an aerial act and in an acrobatic act is as great as that of the trades of the carpenter and the blacksmith. Both must be learned and with a system and understanding, as the public calls for tricks in this present day and age that are much more hazardous than in the early days of the circus. Mr. Da Coma, the elder member of the Da Coma family, cited cases of where many good performers, in days gone by, had met their fate through neglect or failure to properly learn and understand the trick they were about to perform. Probably the most dangerous vocation around a circus is that of the aeriallsts. but Mr. Da Coma boasts with pride that no member of his troupe has at any time met with a single mishap and he attributes all this to a minute attention to the detail of his rigging and his years of experience in handling big aerial acts. His wife, Rose Da Coma, is considered the most daring and accomplished lady aerialist in the world, and this is saying a great deal, as it holds this title to an American born and bred. The Da Comas' act consists of what is known as a return act in which the elder Da Coma hangs on a trapeze and catches the various somersaults that his wife makes through the air and he then throws her back to her orignal leaping place.
"In case of a fall or miscalculation, they have a large net spread to catch
the leaper and it is in this event that so many of the best performers have
met their fate. Probably the most prominent and one that is still fresh in the minds of circus folks is the case of Bobby Hanlon, a member of the Hanlon family, who fell into a net and struck on his forehead and was instantly killed while performing an identical trick that the lady member
of the DaComa family is performing this week. Dave Hawley and Art Mohring met similar fates and countless performers of lesser fame have given their lives to this peculiar vocation but Mr. Da Coma has so studied the art that he claims a serious accident to be an impossibilty and surely to witness his performance would convince the most skeptical. The conclusion of his act, which is professionally known as a casting act, is awe-inspiring to the extreme. The younger member of the troupe is thrown from one end if the ring to the other in all manners of shapes and invariably lands back to the hands of the elder to acknowledge the plaudits of the spectators. This little artist hails from California and has been associated with Mr. Da Coma for three years. His name is Ernest Clorie and Mr. Da Coma predicts a great
future for him as he is particularly apt and bright and finds real pleasure
in his aerial flights. He has already established himself a favorite with the children, here.
"A Russian Bear and Man. All the world is a stage but John Ponsol, one of the principal actors with the circus, has a part that not many of us would care to be cast for. The work is too hard and the responsibilities too many. John don't mind it though. He has come to regard it as a part of his life. Imagine having to stand up and wrestle and lock arms with a big Russian bear standing six and one-half feet high. That's the part he has played for the past twelve years. "Sig.," as the boys around the circus call him, started as an animal trainer years ago. It comes to him naturally, as his father. Peter Ponsol, was one of the most famous trainer's of wild animals in Europe and, 'Sig,' then only a boy, took to them as a duck takes to water and at an early age had charge of all the animals with the famous Hagenbeck animal show, which was touring the continent. Among the animals were a pair of
Russian bears and one fine morning all the keepers and helpers were summoned to see the baby bear that had been, born during the night. Sig Ponsol was the only one of the keepers that the ferocious mother bear would let near the huge cage, where they were imprisoned, and when the cub was big enough to handle Sig assumed a general control which he holds to this day. He has taught ths bear to perform all manners of tricks and their wrestling bout is very realistic as Mr. Bruin has a way of squeezing that may be friendly but
doesn't feel very friendly, as Sig Ponsol expressed it, Mr. Bruin's diet is very dainty. It comprises of eight pounds of raw meat every evening after the performance, also numerous handsful of apples, sugar and other deserts and we are informed further by the genial Sig. that he has no hankering for little boys so all the children are safe.
"Mr. Shipp and his excellent company will be seen the balance of the week at the Auditorium and the prospects are that the building will be crowded with circus parties to witness the delightful performance." Cedar Rapids (IA) Evening Gazette, January 27, 1904, p. 7.
• An article on the 1929 Silvan-Drew Motorized Circus is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1987, Vol. 31, No. 1, pp. 28-34.
Prof. L. F. Tidler's band and orchestra has been engaged for Sinclair's London Shows. The band consists of the following musicians: E. F. Tidler, L. W. Windel, . . . and F. M. Prince. New York Clipper, April 21, 1894, p. 103.
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E. G. Smith's Triple Combination Show. Everything new, sparkling and brilliant. Three great shows in one. E. G. Smith and American Gymnasium composed of well known performers from the leading circuses and amphitheatres of Europe and America. The Martinez jugglers and wonderful knife throwers, in the great Chinese juggling and impalement act. Robert Butler's National Pantomime Troupe from Niblo's Garden, New York in the great comic pantomime the Black Crook with the songs, dances and comicalities. The Ronconi Brothers, in their wonderful feats, bar, trapeze, perch &c., &c. Popular ballad and favorite operatic songs, Miss Amelia Wells. Most beautiful, new and attractive dances, Miss Sallie Louise. For particulars see bills of the day. Admission 50 cents. Children under 10 years, cents. Doors open at half past one o'clock p.m., evening at 7 o'clock. G. E. Tillotson, manager. J. T. Chesley, agent. [Note: John Robinson's advertisement was on the same page, to show at Bangor on June 10 & 11.] Bangor Daily Whig and Courier (ME), May 29, 1867, n.p.n.
The performance consists of - Daring feats of equestrian horsemanship - double somersaults - somersaults over four horses - le perche equipoise - duplicate ladders - dancing globes - grand and lofty tumbling - acrobatic exercises - pantomime - Negro minstrels - etc., etc.
Among the wonderful performers now traveling with this company, are the following well known artists: Henry A. Gardener, celebrated clown; Horace M. Smith, champion bare back rider; M'lle Victoria, sylph of the circle; Frank Robinson, scene rider; H. Bailey, principal rider; Olympian Brothers, in le perche equipoise; the four celebrated acrobats from the Varieties Theatre, New Orleans, in all their wonderful feats of agility, strength, etc.; Mons. Kunen, India rubber man; Gardner, the champion jumper of the world and double somersetter - the only mand now traveling in the West who performs that feat, and will positively accomplish it at every entertainment.
The whole entertainment to conclude with Smith's excelsior band of Negro Minstrels, in songs, dances, jigs, jokes, etc. Admission to whole performance 50 cents; children under 10, to boxes, 25 cents. Polite and attentive ushers to seat the audience. Reserved seats for ladies. LaCrosse National Democrat (WI), June 27, 1856, n.p.n.
Arrivals at the Port of Hudson for the week ending July 2. June 26, Carrier, Circus Company. Hudson North Star (WI), July 2, 1856, n.p.n.
A serious wreck occurred on the Norfolk and Western Railroad Oct. 31, 1892, near Disputanta, Va., which was caused by the collision of two trains loaded with coal. Fourteen cars and a locomotive were wrecked, and Leonard Laporte, of Germantown, Pa., a trapeze performer of Snyder & Zimmerman's Circus was killed. John Fahan and Andrew Fahan, of Trenton, N.J., brothers, who were also trapeze performers with the same circus, were seriously, and perhaps fatally injured. New York Clipper, November 5, 1892, p. 554.
Soll's Brothers' Circus and Wild West. Sam Soloman, proprietor and manager; Maxwell Kane, assistant manager, superintendent con., legal adjuster; Noah J. Korte, treasurer; R. D. Russell, secretary; Walter H. Moreland, auditor; R. A. Dana, general agent; Wm. Soloman, special agent; Pete Speckman, press agent; Virgil Smith, general superintendent; John F. Dusch, musical director; Albert Jenck, trainmaster; Chas. Necamp, superintendent lights; E. D. Snyder, general announcer; Earl May, R. F. Katz, Fred Fink, billposters; A. C. Tillman, A. G. McCatheron, advt. agents; Walter Roberts, general counsel; twenty-five cars. Open at Metropolis, Ill., March 25. Billboard, March 18, 1922, pp. 122, 246.
In obedience to this, every thing has been done in collectiong a great amount of equestrian and gymnastic talent, than has ever before been concentrated; in improving to the utmost his celebrated stud of horses in subjecting every proposed representation to a careful inspection and the strictest scrutiney, and in making every possible provision for the comfort and amusement of his patrons. The liberal scale of all the arrangements enables the manager to originate and present many interesting novelties, which cannot be described in this advertisement, but many of which may be expected at every exhibition. The company can boast with confidence of possessing the most splendid, talented and equestrain troupe in the United States, among which may be found the following distinguished artists:
Mr. W. Stout, the unrivaled herculean equestrian and his interesting pupil, master Nevilles; John Smith, the celebrated Negro dancer and singer, with Piccaninny Coleman, the inspiring banjo player, and their Jaw Bone Minstrel Band; Mr. H. Gardiner, the melo-dramatic equestrian and gymnast; T. McFarland, the champion vaulter, having thrown 60 successive somersets; Mr. B. Carrole, the undaunted equestrian and great acrobatic wonder, who will throw a double somerset, turing twice in the air before alighting, a feat never before accomplished by any other person, and will be admitted to be the most daring feat ever witnessed in the world!
Mr. J. McFarland, the undaunted tight rope performer; Mr. Baldwin, the astounding equilibrist, juggler, and contortionist; Young Hare, the little equestrian hero; Mr. McKnight, the Yankee Samson, who fires a cannon weighing 1000 pounds from his breast, with other almost supernatural feats. Also Miss Helen Rallio, the charming danseuse and intrepid female equestrian; Miss Delsenore, the beautiful and accomplished rider; Knapp, the celebrated buffo clown, together with other innumerable and unrivaled artists. For particulars see large bills at the hotels, and descriptive sheets. Doors opne at half past one o'clock p.m. Performance to commence at 2 o'clock. C. Griswold, advertiser. The above will be exhibited at Southport Tuesday, the 9th day of July. Racine Advocate (WI), July 9, 1844, n.p.n.
Also, Mrs. Carroll and Mrs. Smith, the charming female equestrians, Mr. J. McFarland, the celebrated tight rope dancer, Mr. S. D. Baldwin, the juggler and contortionist, Yankee Sampson and his pocket piece, weighing 1000 pounds, which will be fired from his breast, Master W. Gardner the wonderful juvenile equestrian, together with Haviland, Hicks, Knapp, McKnight, H. Johnson, Hendricks, Austin, Wilson, Rockford, Brown, &c., &c.
The performance will commence with a magnificent entre, entitled the Star & Waltz, Gallopade, led by those four popular female equestrians, Messdames Carroll, Smith and Knapp, and Miss Delsmore. Two clowns in the ring, G. O. Knapp, and J. Johnson. Doors open at 2 p.m. performance to commence at 2 1/2 o'clock. Admission to Boxes 50 cents, Pit 25 cents. Children half price to Boxes, no half price to pit. H. Miller Whitbeck, agent. Guernsey Jeffersonia (Washington, OH), August 14, 1845, n.p.n.
The night was dark, and rain came in torrents, and then it was that a scene of consternation and confusion commenced that beggars all description. Allwere cowered down close under the tent. Some fell through from the higher seats down underneath; others fell on them; parents were separated from their children, husbands from their wives, young gentlemen from the ladies whom they had accompanied, and in the extreme darkness no one could know the other. Ladies screamed; children cried; the pony mounted the seats amongst the audience; men cut their way through the canvass . . . Weekly Wisconsin (Milwaukee, WI), July 12, 1848, n.p.n.
A princely fortune has been profusely lavished, and the service of 100 mechanics and artisans of acknowledged taste and ingenuity, kept in constant requisition for five months, in designing and executing the appurtenances and properties of this gigantic scheme, in a style of unprecedented magnificence, resulting in the most exquisite mechanical gems, and the most gratifying chef d'oeuvres of American skill.
Kendall's Brass Band. 15 picked musicians, in lustrous uniforms, of a celebrity in both hemispheres to which no other band aspires, led by the immortal Edward Kendall, whose fame as the Magic Bugler, has penetrated every circle to which music has access, at once gives tone to the pure and admirable amusements of the monster circus, whether in leading the immensely extended procession in the gorgeous colossal music car or awakening the echoes of the streets while mounted on highly caparisoned steeds, or metamorphosing the performance into a soiree musicale! not the least attractive feature in which will be the never to be forgotten solo upon his magic silver bugle.
35 widely celebrated lady and gentleman artistes, at the acme of their profession, the most numerous and talented troupe of performers ever concentrated in one circle, viz.: Messrs. C. J. Rogers, W. W. Nichols, J. W. Smith, J. McFarland, John Shindle, Victor Piquet, J. Blackwood, S. D. Baldwin, R. Rossiter, Dan Emmet, E. M. Dickenson, Bandanna Brown, Sam Johnson, G. O. Knapp, Alex. Rockwell, Jos. Wiley, T. Sparks, W. Russel, J. Adams, _. Everts, M. Wayne, O. Thompson, T. Wheeler, S. Wright, &c., &c. Masters Harvey, Walters and Piquet. Mesdames Thompson, Rockwell, Everts, Knapp, Wayne, Emmet, Wright, Delmore &c., &c. The long favorite clown, C. O. Knapp, and that brilliant meteor in the orbit of the hippodrome, Alex. Rockwell, king of grotesques, pronounced by acclamation by the noble and refined of Great Britain, at the London Opera House, to be the clown of clowns . . . Janesville Gazette (WI), August 3, 1848, n.p.n.
The characteristics of this establishment consist in the largest collection of equestrian, gymnastic and dramatic talent, ever collected in one travelling company. The introduction in the place of a band of musicians, of the great American Apollonicon, the master-piece of musical science and mechanical skill combined. This vast, moving musical palace, was built for the proprietors by Henry Erben, Esq., of New York at an expense of $10,000, expressly for their traveling exhibitions. It is a collection of over 1000 distinct musical instruments, so ingeniously and mechanically arranged, as to be completely under the control of one man, and under the hands of the skilful musical professor, Mr. Karl Furhman, will be found equal in power, compass, precision and harmony, to a band of fifty musicians!
The Apollonicon will be drawn in procession by forty horses! - four abreast!! On the day of exhibition, between the hours of 10 and 12 o'clock, playing several popular marches, overtures, &c., while moving along the streets and will be found equivalent to a brass, string and reed band united!
Another grand feature of this company, and never heretofore attempted by any other travelling establishment, is the addition to the equestrian troupe of a complete dramatic corps. By the aid of whom will be represented every night, a very interesting patriotic national drama, called The Spirit of "76!" Introducing several thrilling scenes from the lives of the immortal revolutionary heroes, Old Put! - General Washington! and Mad Anthony Wayne! The whole concluding with a grand living tableau, in which the "Father of His Country" mounted on his charger, is borne aloft, in triumphal procession, on a platform, on the shoulders of his brave continentals! C. C. Willits, agent. Newport Daily News (RI), May 22, 1851, n.p.n.
The Lion Queen Marie, only 8 years old, with her faithful dog Fidele, entering a leopard's den, in fulfilment of the words of the prophet Isaidh: "the Leopard shalt lie down with the Kid, and a little child shall lead them." And an entrie dramatic corps, embracing actors and actresses of acknowledged talent, producing every night the great patriotic melodrama, entitled Old Put and Mad Anthony Wayne, or The Spirit '76. Abounding with revolutionary incidents, reviving proud reminescences, exciting patriotic emotions replete with equestrian feats, introducing prominent heros of country, Gen's Putnam and Wayne, Lord Cornwallis, Continental and British soldiers, Indians, Yankee girls led on by Kate Putnam, and concluding with the most thrilling tableaux ever witnessed, Gen. George Washington, mounted on a live war horse, weighing 1,200 lbs., borne aloft on the shoulders of the "brave Continentals," amidst the martial strains of Carnham's West Point Military Band, and a grand "feu de joie" from a six pounder on the shoulders of the Yankee Sampson of the Spectacle. Will be exhibited in Fort Wayne at 2 and 7 o'clock p.m. on Monday, July 14the, and at Huntington, Tuesday the 15. Lunt and Wileer, agents. Van Orden, manager. Fort Wayne Times (IN), July 10, 1851, n.p.n.
The characteristics of this establishment consist of the largest collection of musical, equestrian, gymnastic and dramatic talent ever collected in one traveling company, with the most distinguished native and foreign male and female performers. Prominent in the galaxy of stars attached to this compan are: C. J. Rogers, the best dramatic equestrian in the world. A. P. Durand, the world renowned acrobat and equestrian. W. W. Nichols, the great American bare back rider. J. McFarland, the great tight rope performer. Mr. R. White, the gentlemanly Matire de Cirque. Mrs. H. Ormond, the celebrated actress from the Broadway Theatre, N. Y. Charles Brown, the celebrated gymnast. Mrs. W. Lake, the brilliant Creole gymnast. Mons. Henrie, the celebrated Man Monkey. Master Clarence, the youthful trick rider. Mons. Le Thorne, the renowned French hercules and cannon ball juggler. J. W. Paul, the Yankee sampson, and - Messrs. Walters, Farmons, Logan, Clark, Wilson, Brown, etc. Together with the three clowns in the circle - Bill Lake, the great New Orleans clown, H. Magilton, the trick clown, J. Le Thorn, the French hercules and grotesque, and the Motley Brothers, Juan and Henry.
A whole troupe (the largest in the United States) of trained performing war horses and lilliputian trick ponies - more than brute and little less than human. The world renowned Apollonicaon, drawn in procession by forty horses, four abrest, driven by J. W. Paul, one of the strongest men in the world - containing Choate's Philadelphia Brass Band, will enter each town in which the company exhibits, positively.
Another grand feature in this company is the introduction of an entire dramatic corps, embracing actors and actresses of acknowledged talent, producing every night the great patriotic melodrama entitled "Old Put and Mad Anthony Wayne, or, the Spirit of '76." Introducing several thrilling scenes from the lives of Revolutionary heros, Old Put, Gen. Washington and Mad Anthony Wayne. The whole to conclude with a grand living tableau, in which the "Father of His Country," mounted on his charger, is borne aloft in triumphal procession, on the shoulders of his brave Continentals. At Somerset on Wednesday, May 25th; Cambridge, Friday, May 27th. Janesville Daily Courier (WI), May 20, 1853, n.p.n.
Po'keepsie, Wed., Aug. 30; Newburg, Thurs., Aug. 31; Cold Spring, Frid., Sept. 1; Sing Sing, Sat., Sept. 2; Yonkers, Mon., Sept. 4; Harlem, Tues., Sept. 5. Williamsburg and East Brooklyn, Wednesday and Thursday, Sept. 6 and 7, corner of Bedford av. and Wilson st. City hall lot Brooklyn, New York City, for six days only, positively commencing Monday, Sept. 11, afternoon and night each day, commencing precisely at 3 and 8 o'clock. Doors open at 2 and 7.
Also at Jersey City, Mon., Sept. 18; Paterson, Tues., Sept. 19; Newark, Wed., Sept. 20; Rahway, Thurs., Sept. 21; N. Brunswick, Fri., Sept. 22; Trenton, Sat., Sept. 23; Mt. Holly, Mon., Sept. 25; Camden, Tues, Sept., 26. And so on through the principal cities in the Southern States. Admisstion 25 cents only to the double performance. New York Daily Times (NY), September 1, 1854, n.p.n.
And every thing else upon the same magnificent scale, with Bill Lake, the great new clown. H. Magilton, the wonderful man-monkey. M'lle Agnes, the celebrated creole gymnast. Walter Aymar, the peerless bareback rider; C. J. Rogers, the distinguished scenic equestrian; Master Clarence, the young equestrian; Mrs. Ormond, the beautiful scenic equestrienne; Mrs. Lake, the intrepid horsewoman; the famous Motley Brothers; H. Maginty, the renowned voltigeur; Monsieur I. A. Thorn, the modern Hercules; Prof. Baldwin, the English wizard; W. Kinkade, the versatile equestrian; H. Durand, the skillfill gymnast; Robert White, the accomplished maitre; W. J. Paul, the famous Jehu; C. Brown, J. Ryan, W. Connor, &c., &c., will be exhibited at 2 p.m., and 7 1/2 p.m., afternoon and night at Alton, Saturday, April 7th. Commencing at 2 1/2 o'clock p.m., 7 1/2 o'clock in the evening. Admission 50 cent; children half price. Alton Daily Telegraph (IL), April 5, 1855, n.p.n.
M'lle Agnes, the celebrated creole gymnast and first appearance hre. Madame Ormond, the beautiful dramatic equestrienne. Mrs. W. Lake, the intrepid maitnesse de chenval, and first appearance here. Mrs. T. Graven, the graceful pantomimist, and first appearance here. The man monkey, the wonder of the modern circus and first appearance here. Bill Lake, the great New Orleans clown, and first appearance here. Henry Magilton, the greatest living gymnast. The Motley Brothers, surpassing even the Ravels. C. J. Rogers, the distinguished dramatic rider. F. Donaldson, the great comic equestrian and pantomimic, and first appearance here. Mons. La Thorne, the modern Hercules.
Geo. Dunbar, the noted gymnast, and (with Magilton and Donaldson) the only person executing the feat of La Perche Equipoise, or two persons in mid-air at once. C. Crosby, the only person executing the feat of the revolving globe, in mid-air. T. Graven, the champion tumbler, and first appearance here. W. Kinkade, the well known equestrian and gymnast. J. W. Paul, the modern Jehu and 40 horse driver. Chas. Brown, the skillful equestrian and gymnast, and first appearance here. Chas. Crosby, the well known pantomimist. R. Ginty, the wonderful hurdle rider, adn "Wildfire," his untameable Georgian Pony, now first appearing here. T. Armstrong, the talented gymnast. Robert White, the accomplished maitre de cirque. The famous trick ponies, Pegasus and Tarter, and the war horse Bucephales, &c., &c.
Admission only 25 cents! To both companies. Will be exhibited at Hornellsville Thursday May 6th, at 1 1/2 and 7 1/2 p.m. Afternoon and night. Also at Bath, Wednesday, May 7th. Hornellsville Tribune (NY), April 24, 1856, n.p.n.
Frank Barry, an equestrian wonder, turns backward somersets over banners and thro' paper balloons, on a bare back horse at full speed (a feat performed by no other equestrian in America) with the certainty and ease that gymnastics do on the ground. The Man-Monkey (so called from his resemblance to an Ape), with all the physical skill of Jocko, bewilders beholders everywhere with astonishment. Bill Lake, the principal clown, convulses the audience with laughter, from beginning to end; Henry Magilton, transfixes the spectators with wonder, by a series of equestrian and gymanstic feats that nobody has ever before even attempted; the Motely Brothers are the especial delight of every body who sees them. Dunbar & Donaldson are a couple of equestrian and gymnastic celebrities that are much dwelt upon in our exchanges; Mesdames Ormand and Lake, and M'lle Agnes are literally showered with praises, while a youthful wonder, little Kate Ormond, is pronounced an equestrian and danseuse of whom the public have never yet seen an equal. A large troop of dancing and performing horses, seeming to know as much as most folks, and particularly admired, and the enterainment throughout pronounced of an order that has never before been witnessed in this region, and what is more important, are entirely unexceptionable. Hundreds who have seldom or never before visited a circus, are found amongst its most delighted patrons, and, altogether there seems to be a fair prospect that this circus will redeem the vocation from the obloquy which has heretofore been sometimes cast upon it. Alton Weekly Courier (IL), April 23, 1857, n.p.n.
First, the great forty horse team, harnessed before the Grand Apollonicon, with Otto Kyle's Bugle Band, driven by one man, about 10 a.m. through the principal streets, turning the corners &c., every morning. 20 horses, if the traces are long enough, would make a longer team, and any boy who has driven a drove of fifty horses from pasture to water, is a "Fifty Horse Driver," but there never was and never will be any thing nearly as numerous as a forty horse team driven in the world, except with Spalding & Roger's Circuses.
M'lle Agnes, the great creole equilibrist and original aerial ascensionist, will trundle a wheelbarrow at noon, up a half inch wire, 125 feet long, extended from the ground to the lofty centre pole, and take any lady amongst the assembled spectators, weighing not over 125 pounds,in her unique vehicle on a trip up this single track railroad. Third, these three companies will positively not be separated at any time this season under any pretext whatever.
"The only Company that Performes Everything on the Bills." Spalding & Rogers' Three Circuses! combining in one monster concern their North American Circus, so popular in New England, their Floating Palace Circus, well known upon the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, and their New Railroad Circus, which excited so great a sensation in the Middle States last summer, with three sets of performers, three sets of clowns, three sets of ring horses, all under one tent! In friendly strife, in presence of the audience, will exhibit as above for only one price of admission. (Adults 50 cts.; juveniles under ten 25 cts.).
Otto Kyle's Bugle Band, drawn in triumphal procession through the principal streets every morning by forty horses driven by one man. The terrific gratuitous outside exhibition of the daring creole gymnast, M'lle Agnes, at noon every day, when the winds and storms are not excessive, ascending a half-inch wire, 200 feet long, extended outside the tent, at a dizzy height, from the ground to the top of the centre pole.
More and better native and foreign performers than has ever been seen by mortal, in any age or country, in any three separate circuses, viz.: M'lle Agnes, Mad. Ormond, Little Kate Ormond, Mrs. W. Lake, Henry Magilton, Frank Barry, Motley Brothers, Man Monkey, George Dunbar, Bill Lake, C. J. Rogers, J. Robinson, F. Donaldson, C. Crosby, R. Nathaniels, H. Ginty, John Ward, H. Ruggles, A. Anderson, F. Stone, S. Rockwell, P. Willams, R. Tremble, W. Somons, &c.
The trained trick, dancing and war horses, Bucephalus, May Drop, Wild Fire, Pegasus, Beppo, Tartar. Altogether the most formidable consolidation of equestrians, equestriennes, grotesques, clowns, gymnasts, voltigeurs, equilibrists, pantomimists, acrobats and highly trained horses, of which there is any record in the the history of the circus. J. E. Warner, agent North American Circus. L. Graham, agent Floating Palace Circus. C. S. Bremer, agent Rail Road Circus. Remember the date! Mt. Pleasant, Friday, June 5th. Burlington, Saturday, June 6th. [Note: L. B. Lent's advertisement, announcing their fifty-horse team and their outside ascension, was on the same page. Lent's was to be at Burlington May 29th.] Daily Hawk-Eye and Telegraph (Burlington, IA), May 23, 1857, n.p.n.
Fast Men! Fast Women! Fast Horses! The only full blooded thorough-bred A No. 1 troupe ever brought North, will be exhibited in Burlington, Wednesday, July 19. Outside spectacles free to all. 40 horse team driven by one man, at 10 a.m., with the Ross Excelsior Brass Band, through the principal streets, rain or shine. M'lle Anna trundling a wheelbarrow to the flagstaff, up a 1.2 inch wire, extended outside the tent, from the ground to the top of the centre pole, every day at 1 p.m., when the storms do not prevent. Cash inside show - adults 50 cts., juveniles 25. Every picture on the bills at 2 and 7 1/2 p.m., and innumerable feats besides that designers, engravers, and printers in vain attempt to portray. Burlington Daily Hawk-Eye (IA), July 12, 1858, n.p.n.
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An unequaled collection of artists and trick ponies. Also, the celebrated Louisiana bred horse, Hiram, trained by Mr. C. J. Rogers, and acknowledged to be the best performing horse on the continent. Grand aquatic representation, on the morning of the arrival at each place of exhibition (about 11 o'clock a.m.), the celebrated English court jester, Tom Watcon, will sail down the river in a washtub drawn by four geese, in full view of the public on the bank. Will be exhibited under one pavilion, at 2 and 7 p.m. at Davenport, Monday, July 16th. Admission, 50 cents, children, 25 cts. Immediately after each circus performance, Spalding & Rogers' Campbell Minstrels! Including the elite of the acknowledged Ethiopian performers, will give a recherche minstrel entertainment, under the circus tent. Admission to concert only, 25 cents. R. S. Dingess, ag't. Will also exhibit at Rock Island Monday, July 9th; Le Claire, Tuesday, July 10th; Lyons, Wednesday, July 11th; Bellevue, Thursday, July 12th; Galena, Friday,July 13th; Dubuque, Saturday, July 14th; Muscatine, Tuesday, July 17th. Davenport Dailey Gazette (IA), July 11, 1860, n.p.n.
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The proprietors will devote all their energies and facilities to this company, determined to make it, under the directing of the managing proprietor, Mr. C. J. Rogers, the model circus of this country. The making of the georgeous trappings of the horses, was superintended by Mr. R. Walker, of New York. Julian Wyettes Brass Band, will make a grand parade, on horseback, through the principal streets at 11 a.m., on the day of exhibition.
The following distinguished stars are attached to this troupe, and will appear at every performance: Senorita Marietta Zanfretta, the Venetian rope dancer, and most brilliant star of the Ravel Troupe, during their last visit to America. This talented young lady exhibits in remarkable degree the grace, beauty and elegance, for which the belles of her native country have long been celebrated, while her wonderful exploits upon the tight rope, without the aid of balance pole, baffle description, and have challenged the admiration of assembled thousands in the theatre of the old and new world.
Miss Kate Ormond, the gem equestrienne, and greatest female rider our country has ever produced. Her beautiful poses, dances, and aerial flights, upon the back of her fleet steed, must be witnessed before any just conception can be formed of her graceful and daring feats, accomplished with such perfect easeans to divest the spectator of all fears for her safety. M'lle Rosa, the beautiful danseuse, formerly of the ___ Ballet Troupe, whose graceful Pas du Deux with Miss Kate Ormond, elicited the warmest ecouniums from the Boston press, during their recent engagement at the Academy of Music. The chaste and elegant bearing of these charming girls, Kate and Rosa, have won the admiration of every beholder.
Mesdames Ormond, Siegrist, Pastor and Francis, excel in the management of the horse and exercies of the riding school. Siegrist Brothers (Francois and August) still hold their position as the best gymnasts that have ever appeared in this country. Little August, the baby clown, who give promise to surpassing his father in the exercise of the gymnasium. Frank Barry, the great bare-back rider, who performs the most difficult feats of leaping and somersetting on horseback, without saddle or bridle. John Barry, principal and scenic rider, gymnast and general performer.
Jean Johnson, the great bare-back hurdle rider, and tight rope dancer. Master Charlie Fish, the boy hero, the best principal rider of his age that ever appeared, perfectly at home on the largest horse or smallest ponies. Carlos Shay, equilibrist, imitator of the celestials, and great knife thrower. Joseph Hazlett, acrobat, leaper, gymnast and tumbler. Wm. Hill, H. Wilson, J. Smith, J. Foster, R. Davis, and J. Fuqua, gymnasts and acrobats. Hercules Libby, master of the circle and extraordinary cannon ball performer.
Lee Powell, the great American clown and comic vocalist. In presenting this gentleman to the public as principal jester of the establishment, the manager feels doubly assured that Lee will see that none go away dissatisfied He always keeps the audience in a roar with his jokes and witticisms, but never resorts to indignity. His great Union speech and National comic songs create universal enthusiasm, and whenever he appears his humor and originality stamps him the first clown of the day.
At the head of the quadruped stars is Hiram, the performing horse, trained and introduced by Mr. C. J. Rogers. Hiram is unquestionably one of the most beautiful, active and intelligent horses in the world; his rare sagacity is truly astonishing, and his performances altogether being so superior to that of any other horse ever exhibited. He is universally acknowledged to be the wonder of the age. Black Bess and Wil Fire, the racers, the spotted mule, the dwarf mule, Balaam, and the Shetland ponies, unrivalled in their several roles. Besides more and better trained bareback and entree horses, than have ever been seen with one company.
The Brothers Francois and August will introduce their wonderful performing dogs. Each entertainment commences with a grand allegorical entree, entitled The Sons of Freedom & Daughters of Liberty. Unfurling the "Star Spangled Banner." Will exhibit at Hornellsville, Thursday, July 18. Admission 25 cents only. At Almond, July 17. Hornellsville Tribune (NY), July 18, 1861, n.p.n.
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All star performers, under the personal direction of the managing proprietor, Chas. J. Rogers. Sen'r Carlos Do Carmo, a lineal descendent of the Royal Sachems of Brazil (first appearance in the U. S.). Don Antonio Marquez, a famous Gaucho, from the Pampas of Buenos Ayres (first appearance in the U. S.). La Belle Annie, a paragon of precocity on horseback and on the tight rope (first appearance in U. S.). Los Hernandos Rollande, divinely gifted brothers (first appearance in U. S.). Sr. Guliermo Rollande is of marvelous gymnastic and acrobatic skill. Sr. Henrique Rollance, a worthy "Pollux" to such a "Castor" in this "Gemini" of imcomparables.
Young Charles Fish, the youthful champion of bareback riders, with scarcely a competitor before going to South America. Billy Pastor, an admirable "Crichton," whether as jester, gymnast, or vaulter, fresh from conquests in foreign capitals. Mr. William Duverna, the chief in the school of physical exercises, and hero of many a professional victory in South Amercia. Mr. Theodore Tournaire, unequaled as vaulter, acrobat or voltigeur. Mr. Tom Stewart, the accomplished maitre de cirque and preux chevalier of the ring. Mr. H. W. Ruggles, a veteran of every department of the circus. Mr. Charles J. Rogers, with whose name is identified the elevation of equestrian amusements for the past fifteen years.
A stud comprises a rare collection of native horses, ponies and mules (some thoroughbreds), of which the following are known to fame: Hiram, the learned; Wild Fire, the untamable; Zephyr, the comic; and Balaam, the stupid. As well as the wild horses from the Pampas of South America, Gaucho, La Plata, Argentina, Pampero and Belgrano, remarkable for their beauty, intelligence and fierceness.
The marvel of the age, Prof. Austen's celebrated, newly invented family steam carriage. For common roads, has been procured at great expense for the Great Ocean Circus, and will herald the company, self-propelled, through the principal streets of every palce where the circus exhibits, at about 11 o'clock on the morning of the arrival, and will also be displayed in full operation before the audiences in the ring, at every performance. It is a wonder of mechanical ingenuity and inventive skill, is equisite in design and elegant in finish, and promises to superced the use of horses on ordinary thoroughfares. It travels at thirty miles an hour, on the public highways. At Milwaukee on Monday & Tuesday, Sep. 12 & 13, and thereafter in all the principal towns in Wisconsin and Illinois. Daily Milwaukee News (WI), September 1, 1864, n.p.n.
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Wanted for tenth season of Spar Bros. Circus. Big show and concert acts, clown who can drive car. Agent with car for schools and auspices. R. R. 4, Greenfield, Ind. [Advertisement] Billboard, September 26, 1942, p. 48.
Walter Harter, 55, born Kansas in circa 1885, showman, own show. Erma Harter, 44; Walter T Harter, 22; Jester Harter, 21
Bandwagon, January-February, 1977, Vol. 21, No. 1, pp. 3-11.
Bandwagon, May-June, 1977, Vol. 21, No. 3, pp. 18-27.
Bandwagon, November-December, 1977, Vol. 21, No. 6, pp. 20-29.
Bandwagon, January-February, 1978, Vol. 22, No. 1, pp. 15-22.
Bandwagon, May-June, 1978, Vol. 22, No. 3, pp. 22-30.
Bandwagon, September-October, 1978, Vol. 22, No. 5, pp. 24-35.
Bandwagon, May-June, 1979, Vol. 23, No. 3, pp. 3-10.
Bandwagon, May-June, 1984, Vol. 28, No. 3, pp. 4-19.
• An article on the 1931 Sparks Circus is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1984, Vol. 28, No. 6, pp. 6-20.
• Brief information on the 1887 Col. Spicer's show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1990, Vol. 34, No. 3, p. 38.
Stevens Bros. Circus Office Trailer, circa 1946, photo courtesy of Leo "Sonny" Albright (Albrecht).
Performers: Stevens dogs; Bob Tabor's monkeys; Fuller's dogs; ladders, Bonnie Fuller, Ester Pepaten, Diane Gordon; juggling, Henry Yentz and Albright; Juan DeAvila, rings; Albright dogs; Chuck Fuller, riding monkey; Bob Grub, ponies; Harry Villeponeaux, trapeze and comedy act; Dianne Gordon, Spanish web; Johnny Latoski and Bob Grubb, specialty horse; Sonny's dogs and ponies; Juan DeAvila, hand balancing; Gatchell's dogs; Don Leon, wire act; Diane Gordon, trapeze; Henry Vountz, cloud swing; Fuller's riding act. White Tops, May-June, 1946, Vol. 19, Nos. 5-6, p. 14.
From the headquarters of Capt. Stewart's Circus, Museum and Trained Animal Exposition. We are busy building a new animal house, which will be heated with natural gas. We have also got wagon makers at work on new wagons and cages. We have purchased another large puma and Russian wild boar. Capt. Stewart is negotiating for Daisy, the Australian hairless mare. Col. Crawford has been a guest of Mr. Steward for a few days. A feature next season as the outside attraction and free show will be a chair balancing act 60(?)ft. high. New York Clipper, November 11, 1893, p. 577.
Capt. Stewart, proprietor of Stewart's Railroad Circus, writes: "I have finished repainting all my cages, made all new curtains and paraphernalia, and have added several more rare animals in my collection. I will consolidate my two traveling museums under the title of Capt. Stewart's New York Zoological Garden and Boston Dime Museum. I will open my winter season in Fort Wayne Dec. 23(?) for holiday week. I am also getting along nicely on my circus outfit for 1894." New York Clipper, December 16, 1893, p. 659.
Cap Stewart wants side show people for season of '94. Also wants to buy paintings and small animals. Don't write for high salaries, as these good old Democratic times are mighty tough. ___ East Wayne Street, Fort Wayne, Ind. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 808.
Sam Stickney Jr., clown, philosopher and wit whose refined humor, subtle thought and keen observation command univeral admiration and praise. Mr. Stickney will introduce his beautifully formed educated Arabian Alla Pasha. Together with a highly trained stud of horses, ponies, mules, dogs, monkeys and zoological collection of animals. Every evening an entire change of performance. Admission $1. Children half price. Doors open at 7, performance commences at 8 o'clock. J. Alexander, agent. Morning Oregonian (Portland, OR), August 15, n.p.n.
Mad. Louise Tourniaire, premier lady rider, manage and delineator of the high school of art. Madame Ida, the classic grace and rare accomplishments of this lady have gained for her the appellation of the Hippono of the circle. La Petite Marie, the child rider, only eight years old, wonderful and difficult acts on the back of her fiery steed. S. P. Stickney, the veteran of circus amusements, skillful director, imparts a brilliancy to the general performance. Sam Stickney, favorite clown and Shakesperian joker.
Sam Melville, Australian clown, first appearance in this country. Watson Brothers, three in number. Theodore Tourniaire, William Naylor, Delevanti Brothers, Mons. St. Clair, Sig. Terdelli, William Penny, L. Kline, Theodore Robertson. The celebrated trick horse, James Roberson, will be introduced by Madame Louise Tourniaire.
The parade on the streets will consist of only a band wagon containing Prof. Sexton's Opera Band from Cirque de Napoleon, Paris, composed of musicians of excellence. Doors open at 1 and 7 o'clock p.m. Admission 50 cents. Children under 10 years 25 cents. Samuel Stickney, proprietor. Will exhibit at Georgiaville, Wednesday, May 5th; Phenix, Thursday 6th; East Greenwich, Friday 7th; Warren, Saturday 8th; Newport, Monday 10th; Fall River, Tuesday 11th. Newport Daily News (RI), May 1, 1869, n.p.n.
The manager, in submitting his claims to the public patronage, does so with the full assurance that his untiring efforts, very heavy outlay, and determination to produce the best company in the world, will be appreciated; and that he has succeeded in this, even beyond his most sanguine expectations, generous, discriminating, and pleased tens of thousands have attested.
So infinitely superior, are the performances of this Mammoth Model Troupe, that no true conception of their excellence can be had, by comparing them with any other company, now, or heretofore organized. Among the celebrates who will appear in some of their most pleasing acts on this occasion, will be Mr. Levi J. North, acknowledged in both hemispheres to be the best equestrian in the world. Il Signor ___, Italy's boast, and inimitable Olympiad rider and horseback juggler. Mons. J. LaThorne, the modern Alciades, and Hercules of the age. Mr. B. Burnell, the excellent delineator of characters. Madam T. Nunn - La Belle Caroline - Mademoiselle Ella. Herr Antonio Neupert. Messrs. John Harper, Thos. Nunn, Leon LaRoy, A. Levi, H. Day, S. H. Goodwin, Herr Strauser . . . Masters North, Yale, Johnson and Nunn. The quondam orator, poet, wit, speechifier, lawyer, punster, and presidential candidate, Will. Worrell. The jocuse, funny, humorous, droll clown, and comic singer, Puss Horner. Together with North's celebrated dancing horse, Tammany, whose correct execution of the polka, mazurka, and other fashionable dances, hs been received with applause wherever exhibited. The brass band, led by the renowned Signor Attilio Blessmero, "The Cuinalta King," is acknowledged to be the best now in the country.
The pavilion, trappings, decorations, horses, properties, regalia, machinery, and other outfit are as good as the most liberal expenditure could procure. Scenes, acts, or dialogue that could in the least offend the eye or ear of the most fastidious, are studiously and carefully avoided. Gentlemanly, attentive, and polite ushers, constantly in attendance, to see that all are comfortably seated. Intoxicated persons not admitted under any pretext. Admission to dress circus, and gent's boxes, 50 cents, children, 26, pit, 20. Alton Telegraph and Democratic Review (Alton, IL), June 21, 1850, n.p.n.
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It is particularly my object now to guarantee to the people of Texas that any advertisement for amusement to which my name may be appended will set forth no more than will really be enacted. Let those who do not know me ask those who do (and my friends, I flatter myself, are legion in the State), and they will confirm, to the letter, the promises I make. My desire is, also, to identify the exhibitions I represent with the tastes and requirements of the people, and to give universal satisfaction. To this end the great "Southern Circus" is now organizing preparatory to its grand tour of the State of Texas, and with a view to the accomplishment of the before named purpose.
This company will travel with its own chariots, wagons, carriages, and horses; and will consequently be enabled to visit all portions of the State. Its outside display will, as in all such exhibitions it should, be an index to the splendor to be seen within its vast pavilion. It will not be driven to the straits of hiring carts to get over the country with, or any chance transportation; it will have all the appendages of a wealthy, expensively fitted up, traveling circus, all the ability to sustain its appearance, both inside and out, and all the disposition to accommodate and gratify those who may honor it with a visit. By the mode of locomotion adopted, the expenses of the company will necessarily be much increased and a great portion of the money taken distributed over the State; this is only, however, a fair quid pro quo, sought to be avoided by companies who travel only with a view to the present, and who have no care to establish a reputation for talent and fairness in the future. The public is guaranteed against anything occuring within the pavilion which can offend the most refined taste, and the assurance is given that everything of a sectional character will be sedulously avoided. This company cannot boast of a pilgrimage to New Orleans, the Mecca of all devout equestrians, but its devotees are conficent that the shrines in Texas, at which they intend to offer homage, are blazoned as brightly with the first that inspire to high and glorious deeds as those that illuminate the altars of the far famed Crescent City.
Due notice will be given of the time of the arrival of this great troupe in the State, which will be as soon as the vast preparations for its entree can be completed; at the same time the usual pictorial bills and newspaper advertisement, will give in detail the names of the great artists who have been engaged, their wonderful performances, &c. It would be unfair to name them in advance, as the knowledge of their being about to leave the several companies of which they are now the "stars," would seriously impare many popular establishments. In this establishment the show will be in the street as well as under the canvas, and as before stated, being organized expressly for this tour (not being an accidental rural trip) it will dispense with nothing that can lend splendor and gorgeousness to its outside as well as inside spectacular processions and effects.
In conclusion, I would bet that no error may confound this great show with any other traveling company; an unmistakable evidence of its identity will be that all its bills and advertisements will be signed, Thos. Usher Tidmarsch, manager Southern Circus. Galveston Tri-Weekly (TX), Houston, December 27, 1865, p. 1.
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These gentlemen have, for the past five years, exhibited in England, France, Germany and Spain, and, upon the cessation of hostilities in America, organized the present excellent troupe for Southern entertainment. Capt. Thos. Usher Tidmarsh, director. Mr. Frank Kelch, manager. Mr. M. Coyle, treasurer. Mr. F. L. Couldock, advertising agent. M. Oscar Perry, the renowned soloist, leader of orchestra.
Stone, Rosston & Murray's Grand Combination Equestrian and Dramatic Troupe. Will exhibit for four days only, on the public square. Friday, June 8, Saturday, June 9, Monday, June 11, Tuesday, June 12. Performance to commence at 2 o'clock p.m., and at 7 at night. Admission one dollar in specie, or its equivalent. Children under ten years of age, half price. The proprietors wish it distinctly understood that the entrace way to the pavilion will be made very commodious, that the entrance to the different class seats will all be separate, and that respectable gentlemen are engaged as ushers, whose duty it will be to see that every lady and gentleman is comfortably placed. Capt. Tidmarsh has selected six of his old companions in arms, now residents of Galveston, whose particular duty will be to attend to this portion of the arrangements.
In the selection of artists for this colossal alliance, it has been the proprietors' desire to secure such a variety that no patron shall fail to find in it much that will interest the mind and eschain the attention. The brilliant cluster of celebrities which adorn this famed circus, are unparalleled in their several specialities. The magnificent scenes in the arena are enriched and beautiful by gorgeous paraphernalia and superb music, and they will be rendered with faultless grace and marvelous splendor. Messrs. Stone, Rosston & Murray, having banished the antique style and reached perfection in this organization of no stale or exhausted acts.
New featurs and fresh novelties never before introduced to the public, will surprise and delight the eye. The subtle charms of this organization will be made fascinating by a myriad of beauties, wonderful in conception and dazzling in execution, and enforced with all the brilliant accessories and opulent resources of this imcomparable combination. Public attention is called to the annexed array of pre-eminent talent. Every artist a star, and every act a gem.
Among the professional celebrities adorning this perfect construction of talented versality is the wonderfully talented Sagrine family, one of which is M'lle Sophie, absolutely unapproachable by any rider, male or female, in either hemisphers. Also, Mons. Perrelle and Master Henrie. Le Jeane Burt, the wild horseman of the West. Prof. P. C. Hutchinson's trained dogs, educated to perform a great variety of exceedingly amusing, wonderful and difficult tricks. A description of the various feats that these sagacious social favorites have been taught to execute would surpass belief. Their intelligence, style and finish exceed every kind of training the brute species ever developed, and the amusing alacrity and the immense docility dispalyed in their unique performances, call forth shouts of laughter.
Messrs. Murry and Hutchinson, the renowned sensation acrobats. The Denzer Brothers, Charlet, Rudolpe and Valentine. Signor Ferdinand, the daring gymnast, the intrepid equilibrist, and the dashing somersault rider. Mr. Den Stone, the popular humorist and accomplished gentleman of the circle. Mr. John Boyce, the talented American clown. Mr. Frank Rosston, the skillful director of amusements.
The collection of trained horses, performing ponies and trick mules are unsurpassable, and cannot fail to elicit praise. Messrs. Penny, Goldie, Larue, Perry, George Murray, Masters Henrie, Charles, Leon, Clarence, etc., versatile performers, the whole forming a congress of peerless talent. The frisky gamblers, Gabe and Kate, will show how much livelier they are than all other comic mules, trick mules, funny mules, dancing mules, or any other living mules known to fame, for being queer in their conduct. Galveston Daily News (TX), June 5, 1866, n.p.n.
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The scenes in the arena are enriched and beautified by gorgeous paraphernalia and superb music, and they will be rendered with faultless grace and marvelous splendor. Messrs. Stone, Rosston & Murray, having banished the antique style and reached perfection in this organization, offer no stale or exhausted acts. New features & fresh novelties, never before introduced to the public, will surprise and delight the eye. The subtle charms of this organization will be made fascinating by a myriad of beauties, wonderful in conception, and dazzling in execution, and enforced with all the brilliant accessories and opulent resources of this incomparable combination.
Public attention is called to the annexed array of pre-eminent talent, every artist a star, every act a gem. Mlle. Jeanette, the most dashing and daring lady rider the world has ever produced, late from the Cirque Imperiale, Paris. Mad'l S. Sagrinie, a charming equestrienne, whose rare accomplishments make her at all times a subject of admiration. Le Jeune Burte, the champion bare-back and principal rider of the world, standing without a rival. Wm. Armstrong, the great principal rider and versatile equestrian. John H. Murray, the prince of gymnasts. G. P. Hutchinson, the acrobatic and athlete anomaly.
Den Stone, the great fun dispenser, and genial jokest, a mad wog and a rare clown. Nat Austin, who dare not be as funny as he can be, but who will prove funny enough for all who have any regard for their vest-buttons. Celebrated Goldie Brothers (three in number), whose groupings, poses, and gymnastic skill will win the applause and admiration of all. The Great Sagrine Family, of versatile equestrian performers. Signor Ferdinand, the wonder of the world. Together with such general performes as Geo. Murray, Thos. Murray, O. Willis, Messrs. Drexol, Andros, Groff, Berlette, Fisher, Remson, Rosenberge, Mager, Walden, forming a rare assemblage of talent.
Mr. J. H. Murray will introduce his equine wonder, the model trained horse, Spot Beauty. The comic mules (Gabe and Shell-bark) will stir the audience, under the direction of their trainer, Den Stone. A novel and peculiar feature of Stone, Rosston & Murray's Great Circus, will be found in Prof. Hutchinson's troupe of educated dogs, one of the most entertaining, amusing and prettily pleasing episodes in the programme, and which cannot fail to secure universal approbation, both among the young and old.
The management, with a view of affording the public a rare and novel source of excitement, take pleasure in announcing a great gratuitous exhibition outside of the pavilion, and free of charge. Aeronautic Oscillation, in which the great paneratist, Signor Ferdinand, will perform his sensational and thrilling feat of flying in the air, at an enormous elevation above the summit of the pavilion, in presence of the public, at 1 o'clock p.m.
As good music is an indispensable feature in a circus, a magnificent cornet band has been engaged, selected by the renowned leader Mr. Oscar R. Perry, and will, during the passing of the procession and superb pageant thro' the streets, perform all the popular operatic and social music of the day. The band will be drawn by the new and superb chariot, by ten splendid horses, beautifully harnessed and caparisoned. The whole cortage will present a splendid and imposting spectacle, worthy of the great performance it announces. Performances at 2 and half past 7 o'clock p.m. Admission 50 cents. Children under 10, 25 cents. Bangor Daily Whig and Courier (ME), June 7, 1867, n.p.n.
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M'lle Emilie Henrietta Cooke, premier equestrienne. John Henry Cooke, champion rider. The Talleen Brothers, gymnasts, from the Hippodrome, Paris, their first season in America. Murray & Hutchinson, peerless acrobats. Miss Emily Cooke, dashing English manege equestrienne. The Snow Brothers, posturers and equilibrists. Sig. Columbus, Italian contortionist (first season in America). Mr. Den Stone, popular American clown. Mr. Harry North and Mr. Charles Rivers, two best tumblers in the world.
Sig. Ferdinand Sagrino, Spanish champion rider. Mr. Burt Johnson, champion leaper and vaulter. Mast. George Cooke, artistis protean equestrian. Mr. Fred May, grotesque comedian. Barry and Reeves, comique pantomimists. The above artists will be aided by a complete force of auxiliary talent, super-added to Hutchinson's acting dogs, Murray's trained horses, and Den Stone's comic mules. The grande entree procession will parade the principal avenues on the morning of the exhibition.
The attractions of this circus are inside of the pavilion, and are not exhausted in a street show. Do not heed the plaintive cry of "Wait, oh, Wait" uttered by "managers in distress." If you "wait" to see a better circus than Stone & Murray's, you will be disappointed. If you "wait" expecting to see a circus equal to Stone & Murray's, you are respectfully informed that such an institution does not exist. Newport Daily News (RI), May 13, 1869, n.p.n.
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Corps of new faces from the best talent of Europe. Harry Welby Cooke, first appearance in America, champion horseman of England, somersault and pirouette rider. In conjunction with his brother, John Henry Cooke, only six-horse equestrian in the world, does a $5,000 challenge. Double juggling act upon two running steeds. M'lle Rosina, first appearance in America, greatest manege equestrienne, with her beautiful palfrey. M'lle Emilie Henrietta, dashing equitation charms.
Den Stone, jester, chaste and brilliant humorist. Mr. Tom Barry, first appearance in America, Hiberian clown and vocalist. He does a comic sketch, introducing a performing elephant. The Snow Brothers, with their troupe of performing dogs. And a competent corps of assistants. John H. Murray will perform his educated horses, "Spot Beauty" and "Black Eagle." New and laughable pantomime, The Bear and Sentinel, characters by Tom Barry and company.
The glittering oriental chariot, Car of the Conqueror, containing O. P. Perry's Silver Cornet Band, twelve in number, in the full uniform of the Prussian Hussar. Will parade the principal avenues and streets at 10 o'clock a.m., the day of exhibition, driven by Mons. J. H. Paul, and drawn by twenty thoroughbred Arabian horses. The same rules and regulations of this circus are still enforced. No smoking allowed inside the pavilion. Carpeted seats for ladies. Performance afternoon and night. Doors open at 1 and 7 o'clock p.m. On the fourth there will be three performances, doors will be open in the morning at 10 o'clock, afternoon and evening as usual. Admission 50 cts. Children 25. Bangor Daily Whig and Courier (ME), June 21, 1871, n.p.n.
Le Claire Brothers, flying trapeze, mid-air flights. Hogle and Franklin, exhibitions of skill and strength. William Ducrow, corde volante. Signor Columus, India rubber man. John H. Murray introduces his trick horses, Spot Beauty and Black Eagle. The afternoon's amazement will be the appearance of three comic mules, Humpty Dumpty, Pete and Sallie. Evening's performance culminating with the laughable The Bear and the Sentinel, in which Tom Barry will appear in connection with a full company.
The grand entree will take place each day of exhibition at 10 o'clock a.m., headed by Prof. O. P. Perry's Cornet Silver Band, thirteen in number, in the uniforms of Royal Prussian Hussars, guided by Mons. J. H. Paul, followed by a team of twelve little ponies. The great tent will be illuminated by Joshua Kidd's patent burners, the most brilliant light ever given under canvas. No smoking inside the pavilion. Carpeted seats for ladies and children. Two performance, afternoon and night. Doors open at 1 and 7 p.m. Admission 50 cents. Children under 10, 25 cents. Will exhibit at Newport, Monday April 29th, 1872, corner of Perry and Spring streets. Newport Daily News (RI), April 23, 1872, n.p.n.
Great Southwestern Circus, from the valley of the Mississippi. D. W. Stone & H. P. Madigan, managers. In the city of Williamsburg, three nights only, October 14, 15 and 16, 1850. At the Equestrian Institute. The proprietors of the Southwestern Circus, having completed their northern tour of the Union, and now on their return to the Valley of the Mississippi, announce at Williamsburg that they will perform in that city, on which occasion the following equestrian talent will be presented. Mlle. Rosa, equestrienne; Le Jeune Burt, pupil of Mr. Stone, vaulting rinder and juvenile equestrian, will appear in the Wild Hunter of the Pampas, leaping hurdles, bars, gates, etc., during the spped of his fleet, prairie speed. Messrs D. W. Stone, H. P. Madigan, M. Lipman, Burt A. Rockwell, T. Williams, R. Smith, Banser Kiley, Masters Madigan, Jackson and Smith. Mr. T. H. W. Williams will appear as the Modern Necromancer, resisting the force of cannon balls. Mr. H. Whitney will introduce his mare Coquette, who will go through a variety of steps, keeping time with the music with extraordinary precision. New York Clipper, March 10, 1877, p. 397.
Den Stone's Hippodrome and Railroad Circus arrived in Chicago in 1854, Dennison W. Stone, born, Burlington, Vermont, died at Franklin, New Jersey, April 20, 1892, age 68. Billboard, December 29, 1906, p. 40.
The procession into town will be formed by the troupe of equestrians, superbly mounted on their gaily decorated steeds, preceded by a full military band, driven through the principal street in an appropriate carriage, followed by the Seneca Indian chiefs and warriors, in their native costume, mounted on their hunting horses, and fantastically decorated and caparisoned, with the carriages, cages and vans containing the animals, to the mammoth pavilion erected for the exhibition.
Mr. Van Amburgh! whose daring achievements in the wild beasts den, have won for him in all parts of the world, imperishable renown, accompanies this exhibition in person, and will fearlessly enter the cages of the wild animals, where he will exhibit his astonishing and mysterious influence over these formidable and ferocious creatures.
Attached to this equestrian troupe is Den Stone! The great original inventor of bon mots, and expunger of Joe Millers, now acknowledged as the clown of the era! whose inimitable hits of the times, satirical harungues, pungent sarcasims, and never failing humor, have won for him the high reputation of the wittiest clown in christendom. Also: E. W. Perry, E. Stone, J. Worland, G. Demott, O. Dodge, G. Bennett, J. Craft, D. Rogers, S. Craven, equestrians, vaulters, and gymnasts, of known ability and merit.
Foremost among the attractive novelties of the company are the characteristic performances of the wild tenants of the forest! (male and female). Costumed and decorated in their native ___, illustrating with truthful accuracy scenes of savage life. The Buffalo Hunt! In which the whole party will appear in an animated scene of action. At another part of the entertainment The Indian War Dance will be given with fearful accuracy, together wil all the savage rites appertaining to that cruel ceremony. And again in a pastoral scene, called The Corn Gathering, interspersed with grotesque dancing, singing, frolicing &c. Besides the following at periods of the performance: The Bird Dance, Thanksgiving Dance, War Song of the Senecas, The Snake Dance, attended with Indian music. Also the following tableaux, by the Indians: Pochahonta Rescuing Captain Smith, terrific scalping scene, the Death Song, &c. For programme of performance, list of animal and other particulars, see pamphlet. Fort Wayne Times (IN), May 31, 1855, n.p.n.
Iroquois warrior, Ka-Ke-Wa-Ma, real Indian circus rider will be introduced in the Indian Pantomime entitled Cammanche's Escape from the Seminoles. The circus encampment comprises five colossal tents of exhibition. The pavilions will accommodate 10,000 people. Madame DeBerg, equestrienne. James E. Cook, reinsman and champion leaper. M'lle Cordelia, lady bareback equitation without saddle or bridle, finishing with her sensational The Flight of Eurydice. Markeese, rider. W. O. Dale, hurdle riding on a naked horse. Mme. Roland, splendid equestrianism.
Snow Brothers, William, Ben and Dan, acrobatic and gymnastic melange. Mr. William Snow will introduce his troupe of performing dogs. William Roland & son, stilt act. Young Roland will also appear in his act called the Crystal Pyramids. Mons. Frank Blanchett, contortionist and gymnast. Mr. William Burt, corde volante evolutionist. 3 popular clowns, Den Stone, G. Murray, W. Roland. Doors open at 1 and 7 p.m. Ring performances will not commence until one hour after opening of the doors, to give an opportunity to examine the wild animals in the menagerie and hear the lecture by Mr. E. Ellingham. B. Crosby, general agent. Newport Daily News (RI), June 24, 1873, n.p.n.
M'lle Cordelia, bareback rider. M'lle Romelli, Signoretta Munoz, Juan Alvord, Mesdames Eleanor, Thealta, Josephine, Carlotta, Leonora, &c. Sig. Romelli, Mons. Romelli, W. W. Nichols, G. W. Murray, Den Stone, Wm. Rolland, Rudolph Mette, Harry Wilcox, Charles Seeley, Charles Roberts, Markese, Master Buddie & Horace, &c., in their various specialties.
Tribe of 100 Iroquois Indians, chiefs, warriors, braves & squaws. Thrilling battle scenes, the scalping knife, the tomahawk, game of La Crosse, pantomime of Pocahontas saving the life of Captain John Smith. Hippodramatic street pageant at 9 a.m. on each day of performance, two miles in length. All nations represented, 50 cages of wild beasts, Roman chariots, Grecian beauties, 500 men and horses. Doors open at 1 and 7 p.m. Admission 50 cents, children under 10 years of age 25 cents. Logansport, Saturday, May 9th. Delphi, Friday, May 8th. Rochester, Monday, May 11th. Logansport Star (IN), May 5, 1874, n.p.n.
Features: Conrad's funny dogs and goats; new grand entree "Knights of Palestine;" the "leaps;" the trampoline; A Horse to Let. The musical brigade, 37 musicians, will parade the principal streets, on foot, each day of exhibition about 10 o'clock a.m. Smoking in the tent not tolerated and prohibited. Corps of uniformed ushers in attendance. Two performances daiy. Matinee, doors open at 1, begins at 2. Evening, doors open at 7, begins at 8 p.m. Admission 50 cents, children under 9, 25 cents. Will also exhibit at South Boston, Saturday, May 11th. Boston Daily Globe (MA), May 3, 1878, n.p.n.
The circus started on a tour of New Jersey and in six weeks, just before arriving at Salem, the performers having received little or no money, and learning that there was a judgment against the concern, they persuaded the holder to vacate it. An attachment was then placed against the circus, which was sold out by the sheriff. All the performers were paid. Most of the effects of the circus were bought by a man named Coleman and Glenroy procured an engagement with him. The new company opened at Camden, but the performers quite after three days.
James W. Shettel, "The First Bareback Somersault Rider," Circus Scrap Book, No. 13 (Jan), 1932, pp. 21-52.
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Wm. H. Stowe, sole proprietor and manager; Capt. Tatum, press agent and general manager . . . Walter Morosco, equestrian director; John H. Trewalla, general advance agent; Frank Percy, asst. contracting agent; Wm. Watson and two assistants, lithographers and programmers; Wm. Wall and four assistants, billposters; John E. Ward, master of transportation; Jack Bradoe, boss canvasman; Tom Pulley, boss hostler; Henry Swift, watchman. Performance: Miss Lizzie Marcellus, lady equestrienne; Chas. Bell, C. Covella and Master Harry, equestrians; 3 Irwin Bros., Mons. Larley, J. Maxwell, C. Bell, H. Andrews, W. Featcher and G. DeHaven, leapers, tumblers and general specialty artists; Morosco Family, four in number, acrobats; Wm. H. Stowe, Chas. Porter and H. Buckley, clowns. Concert is managed by Burt Stowe with the following people: Burt Stowe, Chas. Gortchas, C. Bell, Bertram Sisters, Miss Atkins and Harry Sharp. Sideshow, Chas. Corella; candy stands and reserved seats owned by Bradoe, Vincent & Smith.
Menagerie consist of 10 new cages, filled with an assortment of animals, twelve baggage wagons, two property wagons, one chandelier wagon, two trunk wagons, one water tank wagon, two 4-horse performers' hacks, five carriages, two family phaetons, one swan band chariot, two sideshow wagons, two candy wagons; advance brigade are using two 4-horse bill wagons, two 1-horse country bill wagonss, one 1-horse carriage. Tents: one 110 foot with fifty foot middle piece, for circus; eighty foot menagerie top, three horse tents. (No cook tent). People all stop at hotels. Eighty-five people all told. Street parade consists of 10-horse Swan band chariot, containing Prof. Weldon's Crescent City Band, followed by twenty mounted gentlemen, dressed in civic uniforms; band of Louisiana Jubilee Singers; large 4-horse cage, with living lion loose on top; two open cages, with performing bear and leopard; followed by ten new decorated cages, and terminating with a new 8-horse Pictorial Float, twenty feet long and sixteen feet high, representing the Assassination of President Garfield. During the coming Winter season I will run two shows. - Wm. H. Stowe, Mt. Vernon, Ohio. New York Clipper, August 13, 1881, pp. 327, 336.
The following people appeared at the opening in the big top: Captain H. C. Betts and trained seals. The Powell Troupe (seven people), aerialact and somersaulting. The Morralles Cuban Troupe (seven people) in an aerial act and novelties. Fred and Marguerite Crandell, society equestrians. Hageharo Sotiro and Prince Yato Fumino, Japanese performers, in specialties. The Nible Troupe, four people, featuring Miss Billie Nible in a equilibristic act. Senorita Moralles in a single tight wire act. Felix Morales does a head slide. Numerous trained animal acts, ponies, dogs, cakewalking horses, educated baboons and a performing elephant are in the program. The clown college is a feature, with Austin King and Bill Koplin as principals. Others are "Doc" Hastings, "Slivers" Johnson, Charles Nelson, Abe Goldstein, Billy Nible, Billy Howard Lee and Hap Snelbaker.
The big show band is directed by James A. Norman, and includes F. J. Hayward, Al C. Cripps, Leon Forsyth, Harry Sturgis, Curtis Murphy, Anthony Malone, F. Sanchez, A. F. Paddock, F. F. Pringslen, B. W. Coleman, John M. Goodnough, W. H. Schooleya nd Walter Alto, musicians. Ticket sellers and announcers include M. Berman, Paul Wolcott, Jack Mann, Billy Howard, Al O'Day, M. B. Fine and Harry Porter. The candy stands and light privileges are owned and controlled by the hsow, with "Brownie" Rodgers in charge. Bosses of the operating department: George Wombold, boss canvasman; Bob Abrams, boss hostler; J. C. Cherry, master mechanic; Charles E. Hazen, boss property man; J. d. Matthews, supt. of lights; D. J. King, steward; Burt Krowles, trainmaster; Harry Rodgers, chef of privilege car; Edward Kelly, night watchman; George Day, assistant boss canvasman; Carl M. Johnson, assistant boss canvasman; and Karl Nelson, train poler.
Advance: H. A. Mann, general agent; R. W. Thompson, contracting agent; Tom Dransfield, advance car manager; M. A. Bentley(?), special agent; Clyde H. Ingle, boss billposter. Executive staff: Pete Sun, general manager; Oscar Rogers, assistant manager; Geo. Oram, sideshow manager; James A. Norman, band conductor; Clinton Newton, equestrian director; Fred Crandell, assistant equestrian director; W. D. Shafer, auditor; H. S. Cohen, press agent, and A. C. Bradley, front door ticket taker. Billboard, April 20, 1918, p. 28.
Talbot's "Fighting the Flames," undated photo, courtesy of Conover collection.
J. F. Taylor's Great American 25c Circus, World's Museum, Egyptian Caravan and European Menagerie will exhibit at Atlantic July 16th. Note - owing to arrangements made by the American Showman's Pool League, this will be the only big show that will visit Cass county this year. Largest one-ring circus in America. Street parade given daily at 12 noon. Huge camels led by their native keepers, etc. [Advertisement] Atlantic Telegraph (Atlantic, IA), July 10, 1889, p. 5.
Terrell Bros. & Co., proprietors; John B. Terrell, president; Ed. C. Terrell, vice president; Sid Terrell, secretary; Fletcher Terrell, treasurer and general manager
John B. Terrell; Edward C. Terrell; Albert S.; Fletcher Terrell. Office 129 S. 4th, Paducah, KY; Occupation: horse trainers.
In this unparalleld collection of star equestriennes, star equestrians, star acrobats, star gymnasts, star clowns, star horses, will be found Mr. James Robinson, the greatest equestrian of this or any age, and of this or any country, a challenge of $10,000! is offered, and waiving his undisputed reputation as the best bare-backe equestrian in the world. Mr. Eaton Stone, a gentleman whose unapproachable skill and grace has delighted the largest and most fashionable audiences in every part of the civilized world, and who had been engaged, at an immense expense, to give eclat to the exhibition, such as canot be found elsewhere.
Messrs. Hogle and Keefe, the American acrobats whose acts vary the scene from severe to lively, by their truly humorous displays as the twins of Momus, or the Babes of the Humorous Diety. Together with Jimmy Reynolds, Chas. W. Noyes, John H. Glenroy, J. W. Thompson, Charles Seeley, Johnny Clark, Md'ith Elizabeth Madame Duval, with a numerous corps of auxiliarises.
While the Court of Momus will be represented in the person of that accomplished gentleman, wit and scholar, Dr. James Thayer, the great American clown; Jimmy Reynolds, the great clown and vocalist; Dr. Thayer's funnygarm, the acting mules, and the most extraordinary of all trained quadrupeds, the beautiful performing horse Scott, together with fourteen of the prettiest, best and most valuable ring horses ever brought before the public, making complete this colossal exhibition.
The interior of the great pavilion is constructed for the convenience of immense audiences, having seats around the arena. Nothing shall be wanting to make this a moral, intellectual and amusing exhibition. The grand opera band, led by E. S. Bergans, will accompay this mammoth establishment. Notwithstanding the innumerable unprecedented expense of these unparalleld combinations, the price of admission will be placed at the extraordiary low price of twenty-five cents. Will also be a Blairsville, August 27th. Indiana Weekly Democrat (Indiana, PA), August 14, 1862, n.p.n.
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The director of publications, would, in justice to, and on behalf of the management he has the honor to represent, call special attention to the fact, that the proprietors Messrs. Thayer & Noyes, being practical showmen and artists of ability and of well earned experience, were fully cognizant when they started their enterprise, of what was necessary to ensure for them a success - gain them the respect, approbation and support of the public - and place their establishment upon a permanent foundation. Determined that no such word as fail should ever find a place in their vocabulary - they bestowed unusual care in the mechanical construction of the wagons, carriages, canvas, and other paraphernalia. Purchased the finest blooded stock that money could acquire; and by liberal inducements and a faithful compliance in all their business relations with performers, can now claim uincontrovertibly and positively to have the best circus in the world. In its career from Girard, Pa., in Cincinnati, Louisville, Pittsburg, Cleveland, Indianapolis, St. Louis adn all the principal towns in Penn., Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois and Missouri, the united voices of the press and the people have given it the warmest encominums, and endorsed it for its respectability, refinement and worth.
The entree into each town will be rendered impressive by the exhibiton of the Golden Chariot, or the Car of Orpheus, one of the most georgeous and grand constructions ever fromed by genius and art. The idea was conceived by Messrs. Thayer & Noyes, who wished to make it characteristic of their establishment, and emblematical of the great natural resources and industrial developments of the United States, Mr. Chevalier and his assistants, of Girard, Pa., have made for themselves a moving monument of consummate skill. Carved horses of golden hue - the American flag, standing out in proud relief, enfolding paintings that represent our railroads, canals, navigation, the products of each State, the results of agricultural and mechanical industry - labor and science - cornucopia pouring out rich fruits in abundance - and representation of a "home and happy people," the Chariot at once evinces an exquisite taste, that must command the attention and elicit the approbation of all who can appreciate the beautiful - drawn by 12 caparisoned steeds, contianing Thomas Canham's N. Y. Cornet & String Bands, and followed by a long train of mounted equestrians, wagons, cariages, &c. The procession gives a good idea of the solidity of the United States Circus.
Among the artists is one who is alone and unapproachable, James Robinson, the champion rider of the world, the only equestrian who has ever achieved (and does daily effect) the successful feat of throwing a back and forward somersault whilst his bareback horse is running at full speed. Dr. James Thayer, clown, comedian, jester, humorist, and conversationalist, will appear at every entertainment, and discourse upon local and general topics, of things that occur constantly around us, carefully avoiding, however, remarks either personal or political.
Mr. Charles W. Noyes, the amiable, accomplished and self-possesed gentleman, who has very truthfully been described as the Chesterfield of the ring, will assume the position of master of ceremonies, also introducinghis trained war charger, Gen. Winfield Scott, and his favorite petite pony and baboon rider, Frank Seigest and agile Jim.
In the gymnastic department, the prominent performers are the Delevanti Brothers, intrepid acrobats, either in the air or on terra firma. Mr. Samuel Reinhart, who can, does and will throw a double somersault. Mr. Dan Bushnel, a skillful manipulator, and professor of the East Indian occult and illusive games; and Mr. R. Johnson, who is an equestrian as well as a clever leaper. Mr. Albert Aymer, whose name is quite familar to the habitues of equestrian establishment, as a first class performer, will ride four and six dashing steeds, introducing the young aspirant for fame and distinction, Master James, in a series of graceful position. Mr. Aymer being a man of versatility, with both fun and music in his composition, will don the motley and enact the vocal clown.
The performances will commence with a dress parade and entree led by Mad'lle Margarette and Mad'lle Annette. Among the incidental spectacles and burlesques, will be The Feast of Lanterns, or A Holiday in Canton, and the laughable extravaganza of the Frenchman at the Tattersalls. The real, unadulterated, unmistakeable fun, will be generated by Dr. Thayer's comic mules, "Uncle Sam" and "Ye Doctor," which are real senstionalists, creating a cachinatory revolution at every move. Dr. Thayer, with his proverbial liberality offers $5 premium to any man or boy who can ride "Uncle Same" three times around the ring without being un-mounted. Competitors from the rural districts admitted, and colored perople not "ruled out" of the contest.
The United States Circus will be at Monmouth, Ill., Monday, Aug. 17th; Oquawka, Tuesday, Aug. 18th; Burlington, Wednesday, Aug. 19th; Mt. Pleasant, Thursday, 20th; Fairfield, Friday, 21st; Keosauqua, Saturday, 22d; Bloomfield, Monday, 24th; Ottumwa, Tuesday, 25th; Eddyville, Wednesday, 26th; Oskaloosa, Thursday, 27th; Pella, Friday 28th; Knoxville, Saturday, 29th; Indianola, Monday, 31st; Des Moines, Tuesday, Sept. 1st; Polk City, Wednesday, 2d; Nevada, Thursday, 3d; Marshalltown, Friday 4th; Toledo, Saturday, 5th. The future route in Iowa will be regularly published in the Burlington Hawk-Eye. Andrew Springer, general agent in advance Dr. Richard P. Jones, manager of publication. Burlington Hawk-Eye (IA), August 14, 1863, n.p.n.
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The mammoth war elephant Hannibal, the largest animal in the world, weighing nearly 15,000 pounds. Hippopotamus, of the new world, the only one on exhibition. A white polar bear, from the Artic regions, the only one in America. An African Ostrich. Snow white peacocks. Japanese Maskin swine, the first imported in America. Besides an immense variety of rare and beautiful birds and reptiles.
The unequalled array of talented artistes includes Dr. James L. Thayer, the eloquent and scholarly clown and comedian. Mr. Charles Noyes, the unrivaled horse tamer, who will introduce his beautiful performing horse, "Gray Eagle Jr." Charles Reed, the champion equestrian. George H. Batchellor, the greatest leaper in the world. Besides a numerous corps of auxiliaries and attendants.
The procession of this stupendous consolidation will be prolific in splendid effects and marvels of magnificence. The colossal Golden Chariot or Mythological Car of the Muses, containing Ed. Parmeles famed Brass Band will be drawn by 12 beautiful Arabian steeds, gorgeously caparisoned with cloth of velvet, richly studded with brilliant emblematical ornaments of gold and silver. The superb dens, carriages, baggage wagons and other equipages, (manufactured by the celebrated Fielding Brothers, New York), are of the most elegant and costly description, and of incomparable style and finish. The indescribable grandeur of this wonderful cavalcade, (representing, as it does, a moving panorama of over a mile in length) withits attractive appointments and attributes, is so superb beyond conception, exciting to the beholder in the relization of the fervid amusements which gave birth to chivalry and its attendant pageantries.
The management desire to impress upon the public mind that each and every feature of this grand combination is entirely unexceptionable and of a high toned and moral character.The undeniable excellence and superiority of this establishment is a cinceded fact.
Performing monkey, "Victor," the best trained animal of the kind in the world. During the entertainment Mons. Davis, the only successful rival of the great Van Amburgh will enter the den of trained lions, tigers and leopards. At each entertainment will be introduced the performing ponies, monkeys, elephants and Dr. Thayer's educated comic mules, Sam & Dick. The gorgeous procession will enter town at or about 10 o'clock in the moring. Will be at Port Washington June 1st. Dresden, June 3d. Andy Springer, agent. D. H. Buckely, adv. Coshocton Democrat (OH), June 1, 1864, p. 1.
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Thayer & Noyes' United States Circus includes the greatest force of talented riders, gymnasts, clowns, acrobats, equilibrists, voltigeurs, &c. in the country, with a stud of performing horses, ponies and mules, incomparably superior to any other that can be produced on this side of the Atlantic. Prominent among the gifted performers attached to this superb circus troupe will be found the names of Dr. J. L. Thayer, Mr. C. W. Noyes, Mrs. T. King, Mr. T. King, Mr. Charles Reed, Mr. James Reynolds, Mr. C. Kelly, Mr. Burrows, Mons. Moreste, Mr. J. Hazelett, Mr. Saunders, Mr. Kincaide, Master Cook. And a full corps of gymansts, tumblers, and athletes.
Van Amburgh & Co.'s Menagerie comprises the most splendid collection of living wild beasts and rare and curious birds, from every quarter of the globe that has visited this city for many years, including among other prominent features the world-renowned war elephant, Hannibal. A two-humped bactrian camel, the first one that has been seen in America for forty years; the first and only Himalaya white bear ever brought to this country, a pair of Poonha sloth bears, the first ever exhibited here, two white zebus, together with lions, tigers, leopards, hyenas, bears, lamas, and an infinite variety of other rare specimens of the animal kingdom, forming the grandest exposition of animated nature ever presented to the American people.
The performances will include ever imaginable variety of dashing horsemanship and classic olympic games. Introducing new and startling acts never before given in this city. At each entertainment Mr. C. W. Noyes will introduce his famous trick horse Grey Eagle Jr., the finest specimen of equine beauty in America; also his celebrated performing monkey, Signor Victor, the feats of which are comical beyond description. A pupil of the great Van Amburgh will enter the dens of lions, tigers, and leopards. Each entertainment will commence with a grand oriental cavalcade, and conclude with the laughable performances of Dr. Thayer's comic mules, Uncle Sam and Dick. Messrs. Thayer & Reynolds, clowns. Doors open at 1 1/2 adn 7 1/2 p.m. Admission to the entire monster combination, 50 cents. Children under twelve 25 cents. Hearld and Torch Light (Hagerstown, MD), April 26, 1865, n.p.n.
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Grand entree cavalcade of this gigantic combination will afford the public a gratuitous view of its prolific resources and unparalleled richness. The magnificent chariots, cages and carriages, exquisite in design, superbly carved and decorated with costly ornaments and appropriate allegorical and historical paintings, will be drawn by spirited steeds richly and gaily decorated. These, with other attractions, will form prominent features in this grand moving panorama.
The superb equestrian troupe attached to the great circus comprises the most talented American and European male and female artists, known in the profession, it being the aim of the proprietors, regardless of cost, to present in every department of equestrian skill the most skillful and artistic performances ever witnessed in any country. The greatest female rider, the greatest male rider, the greatests leapers of England and America, and the greatest clowns, are attached to this company, viz.:
M'lle Carlotta De Berg, the most beautiful, daring and athletic equestrienne in the world. Mr. Robert Stickney, is unapproachably the greatest somersault rider that have ever appeared in America. Charles Noyes, and his celebrated trick horse, Grey Eagle Jr. Mr. James Cooke, the English champion, and Mr. G. M. Kelley, the American champion, are incomparably the greatest leapers that ever appeared in America. Mr. and Mrs. Tom King, the unequalled dual equestrians. The Miaco Brothers, Prof. De Louis, three original clowns. Dr. James Thayer, James C. Reynolds, and Tom Poland. Twenty other artists, male and female. The elite of three different circuses, who have been fixed stars in other equestrian establishments, and have no rivals but themselves in their several departments.
Dogs, monkeys, mules and horses contending with each other for superiority in cultivation of instincts. The world has never before or probably never will again witness so many first class performers concentrated in one circle. Admission 50 cents. Children under 12 years, 25 cent. Doors open at 1 and 7 o'clock p.m. Commence half an hour after opening. Seats for everybody. No standing room. Titusville Herald (PA), June 6, 1866, n.p.n.
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A cage of trained lions, has also been placed in this exhibition, which will be entered by Mr. Charles White, who will give a sensational performance while in the midst of these formidable and ferocious beasts. A peculiar and thrilling feature in the show will be the carrying of a living wild lion through the streets, uncaged and unchained. All at the same time, perfectly safe, the animal being under the control of its keeper.
The company: Dr. Jas. Thayer, humorist. Mr. C. W. Noyes, animal trainer. Mr. C. Reed, bareback rider, &c. Mr. Charles Parker, contortionist. Mr. H. Smith & Son, double equestrians. Hogle & Keene, acrobats, &c. The Miaco Brothers, trapezists. Mme. De Lorme, equestrienne. Miss Eugene DeFoe, equestrienne. Master Wooda Cooke, great boy rider and leaper. Mr. Geo. Moreste, horizontal bar performer. Mr. F. Robinson, scenic rider. Mr. J. Hunterson, batout leaper. Mr. E. Phillips, vaulter, &c. With a host of auxiliaries.
Learned pony and trick horse, "Gray Eagle" will be introduced by Mr. Noyes. The comic mules will be introduced by Dr. Thayer, and the three clowns will produce their own credentials. The gorgeous band chariot with the splendid band of musicians, will be followed by the magnificently decorated carriages and vans, and will prove to be an imposing spectacle. Will exhibit for one day only at Hornellsville, Saturday, August 17th, 1867. Doors open at 1 and 7 p.m. Admission 50 cents. Children under 10 yrs, 25 cents. At Dansville, Friday, August 16th. At Angelica, Monday, August 19th. F. D. Couldock, business agent. Hornellsville Tribune (NY), August 15, 1867, n.p.n.
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Don't fail to see the grand procession. The fete of Versielles, the courtly meeting of royal and power on the Field of the Cloth of Gold, King Henry the VIII of England, Frances I. of France. Procession of knights and dames. Days of tilt and tourney. The Car of Aurora, at a cost of $10,000. Representations of all nations, Europe, Asia and America. The Genius of Liberty, a rolling mass of magnificence. A line of gorgeousness one mile long. Power subservent to beauty. Lion prostrate at a woman's feet. A huge monster taken from its den, mounted upon a pedestal, and carried in triumph through the streets. Revival of a taste for the beautiful. The period of chivalry. A modern parade, replete with grandeur. Melting of the monarchs. The white and blace knights attired in suits of real armor. Ladies of the court in royal robes.
The elephant "Lalla Rookh," bedecked in eastern trappings, and on his back the infant princess. The wild beast den, thrown open to the public. Prof. White and his group of lions, the finest and largest animals seen in any menagerie. The Chariot of the Muses, containing Prof. ___ Cornet Band. The wagons, cars, cages are all new, exquisitely made and furnished. Model show of 1868 which cost the management $125,000.
The names of the artistes will convince the public of the professional excellence of the company. Dr. James L. Thayer, "In all respects a Clown," but one who never sacrifices good taste to desire a laugh, a man who has been styled by the most important journals of the day a "gentleman in and out of the ring." C. W. Noyes, the successful trainer and equine breaker, will introduce his very intellectual and pretty animal Grey Eagle Jr., and is sagacious pony "Wonder."
Charles Reed, equestrian and pirouette rider, and as a high leaper has no successful rival. Messrs. Hogle and Keefe, polite, skillful and graceful gymnast, whose physical exploits render the gymnasium a bright particular in the programme. Charles McCarty, champion leaper of America, a title he has acquired by the accomplishing a series of dashing leaps over the backs of 12 stalwart draught horses. Mr. W. W. Nichols, leading scenic histrionic character impersonators, will give his equestrian transformations and his Pictures from Pickwick, imparting to his representations the genius of their great author Dickens. Fred. Rentz, a gifted performer, perfect in points of agility, strength and dexterity, one of the best general performers in the profession.
Master Wooda Cooke (pupil of Mr. C. W. Noyes), the wonderful boy rider, the somersaulter and leaper, achieving on horseback acts which are difficult to execute upon the ground even when assisted by surrounding of "runs" and spring boards. This mere child will ride his terrific bar act on his pony Wild Fire, evincing a daring execution, evidence of his claims to the title of the champion rider of the world. Frances W. Robinson, a clown of meit, a man of originality, quick perception, a good talker who knowns just how to "tell a good thing in the proper place," imparting to all he says rich and unctuous humor. Mr. R. will alos introduce that marvel of fun, that epitome of mirth, "Who'a January." John Hunterson is another aspirant for distinction, preserving his identity among the performers by executing his grand specialty, a double somerset. Mr. Clarke Gibbs, is also a clown, who "says in song" a host of very clever things.
Prof. Chas White, the lion king, will exhibit his collection of wild beasts, and perform with the denizens of the jungle, giving a decidedly marked emotional entertainment in the den with the monsters. Mr. C. W. Noyes will exhibit one of his pet projects for the amusement of his little friends a real performing monkey, "Hunki Dori," capable of making everybody laugh at his cunning tricks and caprices. Dr. James Thayer will bring forward in his own peculiar way those standard quadrupedal comedians "them mules," Uncle Sam and Dick.
The whole of the talent and the resources of the establishment will be most acceptedly presented in the magnificent spectacle of the tournament, which will show 200 women, men and horses "at one time in the ring," in a series of the most brilliant animations, The Halt in the Desert. The caravan resting at the oasis. The Arabs with their 12 blooded imported horses trained to lie down and raise at a command. A sublime picture, showing to advantage the docility of the performing elephant Lallah Rookh.
The arrangements for comfort of patrons are complete. Eligible and roomy seats, simple means of ingress and egress. Dry and well ventilated tent, and the pavilion illuminated with atmospheric light, shedding rays of brilliancy throughout the entire arena, equalling in all respects the gas used in metropolitan places. Two performances, afternoon and night. Doors open at 1 and 7 o'clock p.m., performances at 2 and 8 o'clock p.m. Admission, 50 cents. Children under 10 years of age, 25 cents. Will exhibit at Coshocton, Tuesday, May 19, 1868. Millersburg, May 18, 1868. Coshocton Age (OH), May 15, 1868, n.p.n.
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This cavalcade will be led by the the band chariot, containing Prof. Frank's Metropolitan Cornet Band, which will discourse selections from the popular melodies and operatic gems of the day. Among the features of the parade will be the grand cavalcade of the Ku-Klux-Kan, or, the Clown's Cavalry, mounted on their blooded steeds. One of the funniest and laughable sights, introducing a grand bicycle velocipede exhibition race, by Messrs. Reynolds and Kelly, showing the ease and skill by which these novel and ingenuous articles of locomotion can be propelled and managed by any person.
The following array of artists: Mille Marie, charming young equestrienne, from the Imperial Circus of St. Petersburg. G. M. Kelly, champion leaper, who stands ready to challenge any man for $10,000, who will compete with him, he having accomplished the feat of throwing a somersault over 17 horses. James C. Reynolds, the comical clown. William Morgan, hurdle rider on his flying steed. Belmont Brothers, athletic sports and acts. Albert F. Aymar, performing clown and equestrian Hercules. Chas. H. Lowry, principal scenci and historic rider, from Astley's. La Belle Marie, fearless and beautiful equestrienne. Mrs. Jas. L. Thayer, Juno-like queen of the arena. Doct. Jas. L. Thayer, American humorist and Shakespearian jester.
Frank J. Howes will introduce his trick ponies, Hiram and Yankee Notions. Them mules, Uncle Sam and Dick, will be introduced by Mr. Jas. C. Reynolds. The following artists will appear at each entertainment: M'lles Payton, Jardins and Lemaire. Messrs. Bruno, Hall, Lothairo, Wyatt and Lascelles. Prof. Chas. White, king of lion-conquerers, and his immense den of 4 savage African lions, concludes his performance by feeding them with raw meat from his naked hands. Each entertainment will commence with a grand oriental spectacular tournament of the white and black knights.
Extra notice. A new idea. 100 presents given away daily. God and silver watches, silver plated ware, ladies' sets of jewelry, gold watch chains, gent's pins, shirt studs, sleeve buttons. In addition to the grand entertainment. To be given away at each performance. The articles mentioned is no humbug, and will be given away at each entertainment. All persons purchasing fifty cent tickets will, upon entering the pavilion, receive a number which will entitle them to a chance in the distribution of the above articles. The goods will be fairly distributed. Five gentlemen will be selected from the audience to act as judges in distributing the presents, which will take place at the end of each performance. Admission 50 cents. Children uner 10 years, 25 cts. Doors open at 1 o'clock in the afternoon and 7 o'clock in the evening. Will exhbit at Elyria, Saturday, May 29 at 2 and 8 p.m. Elyria Independent Democrat (OH), May 26, 1869, n.p.n.
John Saunders, equestrian scenic artist and principal rider, who in addition challenges the world to produce a man to compete with him for the sum of $5,000 and the title of champion leaper of creation. Miss Lottie Sheridan, America horsewoman. Hogle and Burdeau, comical acrobats, exponents of physical development. Dick Sands, the original clog dancer. The comic mules, Uncle Sam and Shoo Fly, introduced by the Doctor in person. Master Johnny Boeker, boy phenomenon in gymnastics. The New York comique, Mr. Billy Pastor. A stud of beautiful ring horses, broken during the winter by Mr. James L. Thayer. A large corps of auxiliaries take part in the performance.
The procession will take place on the day of exhibition at 10 a.m., led by the new, magnificent band chariot, made by Fielding Bros., New York, containing Adolph Nicholl's New York Cornet Band. Admission 50 cents. Children under 10, 25 cents. Pleasantville, May 11th; Shamburg, 12th; Petroleum Centre, 13th and 14th; Rouseville, 16th; Oil City, 17th and 18th; Franklin, 19th; Brownsville, 20th; Merter, 22d; Meadville, 23d. Titusville Herald (PA), April 27, 1870, n.p.n.
The crowd was a very disorderly one. They did not have enough money to pay their admission and when they could not "beat" their way in, they were bent upon mischief of the worst kind. Soon after the performance began the roughs began work. Different ropes were cut and parts of the canvas let down on the heads of the audience that were sitting on the top seats. Young urchins crept under the canvas, got upon the top seats, unhooked the chains from the tops, whole others outside carried them off. Stone and brick-bats were thrown. During the concert performance, which took place after the circus, the desperadoes cut all the ropes of the dressing tent and let it down to the ground. The destruction of property was considerable. . . .
The proprietor proposes to sue the city, and he will probably receive damages. He paid $50 for the privilege of showing here, and should have been protecterd. The board bills of the men stopping at the different hotels were not paid last evening, and the proprietors of the three hotels where they stopped issued attachments on the goods for the amount of their claims. They were served just before the performance was over, and this put them in trouble. A man who was traveling with the show, represented the Buffalo Curier Pringing Company, whom the circus proprietor owed money for printing posters, and he immediately proceeded to Media and got the deputy sheriff to attach the entire outfit of the circus. This stopped them from getting to Wilmington, where they were to show today. From Wilmington they were to go down to the State of Delaware. All the stock, which includes twenty-six horses, several wagons, the tent and other things, are distrained by the sheriff, and he will sell them.
The employees of the circus and performers, about fifty men and two women, were left in a strange town without a cent, for to most of them Dr. Thayer owed from six to nine weeks' wages. Many of them are unable to leave the town, being without the means of releasing their personal baggage. As soon as Dr. Thayer knew the different writs were to be served upon him he left the town on one of the evening trains, and has not been heard of since. There have been six executions issued by persons of this place, five by three different hotel proprietors and one by a livery stable, and the amount of their claims will foot up nearly $150. Some of the musicians and performers have succeeded in releasing their personal baggage, and have left town. The ring horses and most of the paraphernalia belonging to the performers, and is not subject to execution under the sheriff's writ. The present difficulties will end the career of this circus, and all, except the printers, have come to grief. Daily Times (Chester, PA), August 17, 1880, n.p.n.
Company: gymnasts and acrobats - Rexford Bros., Sinclair and Carlisle, Chas. Lane, Dapt. D. A. Pullen, Wood Bros., Emro Bros. Specialists - the Lanes (Chas. and Viola), Mons. Alexandro, the strong man, Samuel H. McFlinn, Wm. Maurittus, Leon Whittony, animal impersonator; R. A. Pennell, Robinson and Smith, roller skaters; outside high wire, Miss Bessie; aeronauts, Mlle. Pauline and Prof. Chas. White; Prof. Geo. Ryland's troupe of dogs, goats and monkeys; a band of 12 Comanche and Sioux Indians and a troupe of 6 Abyssian athletes. Number of horses, 12; tents, 4; employes 60, baggage wagons, 4; band chariot appoloincon, 1. Winter quarters, Lafayette, Ind. Concert company: McFlinn, Burt Stowe, Bertram Sisters, Kilgore Wrenn and partner. Sideshow owned by the company; performers, general line, orators, Chas. Bell and Lew Nichols. New York Clipper, May 3, 1884, p. 105.
Sherman, Texas. Senor Trevino’s Mexican Circus gave two performances here 11, 12. They have some of the smallest performers that your correspondent ever saw. . . . On 12 the cooking tent caught fire and was damanged some before the fire could be got under control. New York Clipper, March 22, 1890, p. 19.
Trevino’s Mexican Show is still heading Eastward. The bad weather has not had very much effect on its business, which is said to be big. New York Clipper, May 17, 1890, p. 155.
Notes from Trevino’s Mexican Circus. We have been doing a good business in Ohio, and the "White Spectre" has been regular in his walks. Fred Harkley(?) is still doing a principal and other riding acts. Prof. Geo. Wambold and his son continue to be ___ cards. . . . Lafayette Miller joined at St. Louis, and is doing principal bars and doubles in the leaps. Prof. John Lacoma is leading the band . . . Our new band wagon looks "out of sight." Deming, Powers and ?enny are running the concert. New York Clipper, July 12, 1890, p. 275.
Notes from Trevino’s Mexican Show. The show shipped from St. Louis Aug. 17(?), and landed at Paris, Tex., 2?. We enjoyed a most delightful trip, as our accommodations could not have been better, notwithstanding it was a long jump. Prof. Geo. Wamboldt and son are doing a wonderful posturing act. . . . Mrs. Georgia Powers joined her husband at St. Louis, having closed her engagement with the New London Show. Arthur Davenport will soon have a charming little wife Zorelda(?). New York Clipper, September 13, 1890, p. 420.
Waco, Texas. Lemen Bros.’ Circus drew fair audiences Sept. 12, 13. . . . Trevino’s Mexican Circus showed here 8, 9, to fair patronage. John Lacomb, leader of the band, left here, and will remain in Waco during the winter. He has been engaged as director for a band being organized here, and will be a member of the regular orchestra of Garland’s Opera House. New York Clipper, September 27, 1890, 454.
A note, dated San Antonio, Tex., Oct. 13, and signed "Musicians and Performers of the outfit," informs us that Trevino’s Mexican Circus went to pieces at that city 12. The writer does not speak in very complimentary terms of Mr. Trevino. New York Clipper, October 25, 1890, 523.
1892:
Pueblo, Colorado. Trevino’s Mexican Show and Circus linger in town, showing to poor business. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 83.
Pueblo, Colorado. Trevino Mexican Circus left here for Trinidad, Col. 11, after an unsuccessful season of three weeks. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 99.
1893:
Items from Trevino's Colossal Mexican Shows. We opened at Parsons, Kas., July 18, for eight days, with an 80ft. round top and a 40ft. middle piece, and did a phenomenal business, which has continued at each stand. We have our own special cars, consisting of one sleeper and dining car combined, one stock and flat car combined. Everything is running smoothly, and the spectre walks every Sunday morning. We play two, four and six day stands. The roster: John Trevino, manager and proprietor; H. C. Long, business manager; T. T. Ball in advance with four assistants; Prof. Sepulveda's band of eight pieces; Otto Geiger, privileges; J. J. White, canvas man with eight assistants . . . Geo. Williams, chandelier man with two assistants . . . Performers: . . . Modesta Gutierrez, Emello(?) Mendez, Leonides Hernandez, Master Isidor Trevino, Francisco Nava, Sig. Trevino, Master Charlie Long and James Orr. Concert: Francisco Nava, Lula(?) Long, Miss Sepuveda, Mrs. Herlinda(?) Trevino, Master Ysidro Trevino, Orr(?) and McGreeney and Master Charlie Long. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 378.
On the road, circuses: Trevino's, South McAlester Ind. Ter. Aug 18, 19. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 379.
1893: On the road, circuses: Trevino, Dennison TX Aug 31-Sep ? . New York Clipper, September 2, 1893, p. 413.
• Brief information on the 1893 Trevino's show is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 1, p. 47.
1894:
Houston, Texas. Traveno's Mexican Ten and Twenty Cent Show opened to good business. New York Clipper, January 6, 1894, p. 703.
Notes from Trevino's Colossal Mexican Shows. The shows are now touring Southern Texas and are meeting with good success, the weather being all that could be desired. They are working under a 110ft. round top with two 50ft. middle pieces and an annex 50ft. with a 30ft. middle piece. Roster: John Trevino, proprietor; H. C. Long, manager; Lee Burke, master of transportation; William Bennett, equestrian director; Fred White, master of canvas, with twenty men; Lee Gaylord, boss hostler, with five assistants . . . The music is furnished by Prof. Frank Shafer's military band of ten pieces. Frank Bernardo, lessee of privileges. Performers: De Long and Bennett . . . Frank Bernardo, Chas. Holland, Frank Medel . . . Raphael Serra, Monica Garcia . . . Nava, Amelio Mendes, Pachita Nava and Cidro(?) Trevino, clowns; Ed. Delong, Sonney Orr, John McDonald. Concert people: John John McGreevy . . . Senator John McDonald and the Trevino children. Everybody is well and the man in white materializes weekly. New York Clipper, January 20, 1894, p. 735.
Notes from Trevino's R. R. Shows. Trevino's R. R. Shows have run into San Antonio, Texas, to lay up for five weeks, during which the cages and chariots will be repainted, gilded and thoroughly overhauled. The performers are comfortably quartered in a commodious hotel, the same company being re-engaged. Manager H. C. Long has gone to Kentucky to purchase stock. John(?) Trevino has gone to the City of Mexico to purchase an entire outfit of costumes, trappings, etc., and engage four bull fighters for one of the greatest novelties the American public ever saw. . . . The show opens in San Antonio, March ?. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 801.
1909: The Wahland and Tekla Trio have signed a year's contract with the Trevino Circus and are now traveling with that organization through Mexico. New York Dramatic Mirror, May 1, 1909, p. 14.
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Tribbey & Co.'s - 1886-87
1886:
Sam K. Tribbey & Co.'s New Mastodon Dime Circus and Menagerie opened their season May 4, at Hamilton, O., playing there the balance of that week, and opening at Richmond, Ind., 20, for one week. The following is the roster: Sam K. Tribbey & Co., proprietors; Miles Orton, general-manager; W. O. Beogel, treasurer; Al. D. Higgins, equestrian-director and press-agent; Prof. W. Vance, musical-director, Chas. Ellis, contracting-agent; Jack Fitzgerald, master of canvas, with eight men; Gus Dicks, in charge of ring stock, with three men; A. Newman, chandeliers; Will Allen, master of properties. Performers — The Orton Family, six in number, headed by Miles Orton, bareback-rider, and his two infant wonders, Norman and Gordon; Claude Orton, Master Albert Orton, Little Allie and Bernard Orton, Hicks Bros,, Apple and West, F. Seymour, E. H. Dooley, Conners and Bradley, Andy Spear, Walter Freds, Mattie Spear, McDonald Sisters — Lou and Gussie — the performing elephant Lizzie, and the riding-dog Hector. The show has eight dens of animals, giant elk and one elephant. It travels by rail, making week-stands, using a 110 ft. canvas, with two 30 ft. middle pieces, and 60 ft. menagerie. New York Clipper, May 22, 1886, p. 152.
Layfette, Indiana. Tribbey & Co.'s Dime Circus opened for one week May 24. The riding by the Horton Family won great admiration. New York Clipper, June 5, 1886, p. 185.
Vicksburg, Mississippi. Tribbey's Ten-cent Circus pitched their tent here 8. Orton Children now with this show draw well. New York Clipper, November 20, 1886, p. 565.
1887:
M. E. Ashton, late of Schiedell Bros.' Circus, is engaged as general agent of Tribby & Co.'s Circus. New York Clipper, March 5, 1887, p. 804.
S. K. Tribby & Co.'s Mastodon Dime Circus opens at Jackson, Mich., with thirty people, including a dog circus, Edward Dooley and trained elephant, Miles Orton (manager) and M. Ashton (agent). New York Clipper, April 23, 1887, p. 84.
Tribbey & Co.'s Mastodon Dime Circus opened in Jackson, Mich., April 25. Roster: Tribbey & Co., proprietors; Miles Orton, manager; M. E. Ashton, agent; the Orton Family (6), four Meteors, Trio Australians, La Belle Allie, Prof. Geo. Ryland's dog circus, Edward Dooley and trained elephants, Prof. Basgal's military band, ___ Higgins, Prof. Milligan, Master Willie and Bernard, and Sig. Claude. The stock is in excellent condition and everyone is happy. New York Clipper, May 7, 1887, p. 119.
Grand Rapids, Michigan. S. K. Tribbey's Dime Circus enjoyed a good week 16-12. Miles Orton is proprietor and manager. New York Clipper, May 28, 1887, p. 163.
Harry Knapp joined Tribbey & Co.'s Show as general agent. New York Clipper, July 16, 1887, p. 275.
Capt. Harry Knapp, general agent for the Tribbey & Co. Dime Circus, is in the city. The show will exhibit on the Wabash depot lot, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of next week. Decatur Daily Republican (Decatur, IL), July 19, 1887, n.p.n.
The Tribbey circus had nearly 800 people under the tent last night. The bareback riding by Orton and his two children was immense, while the tumbling and other acts are great. Decatur Daily Republican (Decatur, IL), July 27, 1887, n.p.n.
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Trilby's - 1902 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1902
Notes from Trilby's New London Show. Dever & Kossler, proprietors; Franks Deovera, manager; Harry De Van, equestrian director; Morris Vick, contract agent. Performers: Adams and Ansil, Lane and Leartio, Harry West, the Du Pontees, the Deovers, Den Franklin, John Richards, Dive Devola, the high diving dog; Adell De Varney, light and heavy balancing; Smith Brothers, Bablyon Brothers, Prof. Carpenter, Marron's band of nine pieces. Jimmie Gunshy, in charge of privileges. We hae an 80 ft. top, two 40 ft. middle pieces, 30 ft. dressing room. New York Clipper, June 14, 1902, p. 349.
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Trout & Foster - 1898, 1900-01, 1903
1898:
Trout & Foster's London Shows will open the season at Big Flats, New York, May 12. Roster: the Morrisons, light and heavy balancing and knife throwing; John Norton, equilibrist; Joe Chambers, clown . . . Cynthia Morris' canine wonders. E. Gaylord is equestrian director and W. Curtiss is general contracting agent. The show will tour the principal towns of New York State. An eighty foot round top with thirty foot middle piece will be used. New York Clipper, April 16, 1898, p. 111.
Notes, Trout & Foster's London Show. We carry forty-eight people all told, forty head of stock . . . Roster: Trout & Foster, proprietors; Ike Trout, business manager and treasurer; Frank Towser, advance with two assistants; H.(?) F. Taylor, equestrian director and juggler; Prof. Norton, slack wire and single traps . . . Weston Brothers, triple bars and brother act; Joe Chambers, principal clown; Prof. Randolph's trained dogs and goats. New York Clipper, June 18, 1898, p. 257.
George Trout, one of the proprietors of the Trout & Foster show, which recently went to pieces in this city, takes exception to statements made by members of the company that they did not received salaries due them when the show disbanded. The proprietors, Elmirans, started out of Big Flats in May and made a trip of several weeks, during which the members of the company say the show did a fairly good business. This Mr. Trout denies, and says that after the show left Caledonia the receipts began to diminish until they did not come up to the actual expenses. At Lockport, he says, he called the members of the company into the big tents and told them that business was band and explained the condition of affairs, but says he did not promise the performers their salaries when they arrive in Elmira. He says it was agreed there between the proprietors and members of the company that the show should continue, the latter taking their own risk as to getting their salaries in full.
Mr. Trout states that after that time the show did a poor business, the expenses of the show were $54 a day, he did not take in more than $40 a day. He gave the use of the tent and all the paraphernalia for a benefit performance on the following Monday, at which the actors received twenty-one cents each as their share of the proceeds. Mr. Trout is out about $800, he says, as a result of his venture. Elmira Daily Gazette and Free Press (Elmira, NY), July 13, 1898, n.p.n.
The Trout & Foster circus, which showed in Corning in May, has gone to pieces after an unsuccessful tour of Central and Western New York. At the last performance in Elmira, July 2d, the receipts were only $14. The proprietors were Elmira men, and one of them says he is out about a thousand dollars by his venture. Corning Journal (Corning, NY), July 20, 1898, p. 2.
1900: Mr. Trout has left the Trout & Foster Great London Shows, having retired from the business. The firm will hereafter be known as Foster & Wilkins' Great London Shows. It will open the season at Montour Falls, N.Y., May 18 and 19. Billboard, May 1, 1900, p. 31.
1901: When the amusement season opened, Messrs. Trout and Foster started out from Elmira, with intentions of running a circus. They traveled via a canal, the luggage being tugged from point to point by a boat under the command of Charles Woodhouse, of Elmira. The circus came to grief in Little Falls, and the disappointed showmen starte bac. The tent and other effects were packed on a cart, and they reached the Queen City on the morning of July 1st. Woodhouse claimed he had a carrier's lien on the property. A replevin action was instituted by Trout and Foster. The case was tried in city court this morning. Judge McDowell reserved his decision. Elmira Daily Gazette and Free Press (Corning, NY), July 26, 1901, n.p.n.
1903:
I. L. Trout, of the Trout & Foster Show, the old clown, and his son, Ray, who did a double-turn act with him, are located in Penn Yan, N.Y., for the winter with a lunch wagon. He announces that the Trout & Foster Show will be on the road again next season. Billboard, October 31, 1903, p. 9.
M. L. Foster, formerly of the Trout & Foster Circus, is wintering at Montour Falls, N.Y. Billboard, November 14, 1903, p. 9.
1906: "Hi" Trout, of the Trout & Foster Shows, is on earth once more, after a serious illness of rheumatism. He has opened a ladies and gents dining hall in Penn Yan, N.Y. Billboard, May 26, 1906, p. 25.
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Cecil A. True - 1895
Notes from Cecil A. True & Co.'s New Shows. Among the engagements for these shows are Frank W. Wentworth, bandmaster with band of fifteen men; Tom Bode and his baby elephant, and Arc;hie Roberge, contortionist. The show will have an 80ft. round top with a 40ft. middle piece, and will open May 9. New York Clipper, March 9, 1895, p. 7.
Notes from Cecil A. True's New Shows. Work has begun at the winter quarters at Minot, Maine. The band will be a special feature this season, numbering fifteen men under the direction of Frank W. Wentworth. Prof. Bartine [Burtine?], equestrian director, with his traine dogs, and pony; Harry West, Mlle. Zanta, Cole, contortionist, Bros. De Witt, Algere and Brothers Briggs, have been engaged. The show will use an 80ft. top with a 40ft. middle piece. Our season will open early in May. New York Clipper, March 30, 1895, p. 55.
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True & McVeigh - 1896
C. A. True, of True & McVeigh's Mammoth Railroad Shows, was for two seasons bandmaster with Scribner & Smith's Circus. Carietia Laverne, aerialist, has signed with True & McVeigh's Show. New York Clipper, March 28, 1896, p. 53.
Roster of True & McVeigh's Mammoth R. R. Shows. True & McVeigh, proprietors; Cecil A. True, manager; John E. McVeigh, treasurer; George Chandler, lithographer and programme agent; Robert Sweet, boss billposter; Pierre Chamberlin, master of transportation; Al Thurston, boss canvasman with eight assistants; Joe Anderson, in charge of ring stock; Prof. J. E. Bartine [Burtine?], equestrian director with troupe of trained dogs; Johnny Purvis, principal clown, with his trick donkeys; Prof. William Sherman's Canine Paradox, Carlotta Laverne, Kit Koster, Hart Brothers, Chris Meyer, Brothers Spaulding, the great Lebar, Thomas Fleming . . . Dick Cook, manager of concert and reserved seat and concert ticket privilege; Jessie Boyd, Lizzie Sherman, Mrs. James Spaulding and Howard and Dixter W. Durand. The show opens at Minot, Maine, under a new 100ft round top with one 30ft. middle piece, traveling by rail and making one, two and three night stands. New York Clipper, April 18, 1896, p. 102.
Geo. B. Chandler joins the advance brigade of True & McVeigh's Railroad Shows. New York Clipper, April 25, 1896, p. 117.
Advance brigade of True & McVeigh's Railroad Shows. Geo. B. Chandler, general agent; Jerry Jordan, boss billposter with five assistants; Jas. Roble, lithographer and programmer. New York Clipper, May 16, 1896, p. 167.
Prof. Wm. Sherman and wife, Lizzie Sherman, have met with favorable reception with True & McVey's Circus. The show is playing one and three night stands. New York Clipper, May 23, 1896, p. 180.
We have received information that True & McVeigh's Circus stranded June 4, at Fairfield, Me., with salaries three weeks in arrears. New York NY Clipper, June 20, 1896, p. 247.
• Information on the 1896 show is online in Bandwagon, February 1945 (scroll down).
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Tryon Bros. Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1890
• Information on the 1895 Tryon Bros.' Big Railroad Show is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1995, Vol. 39, No. 2, pp. 37-38.
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A. A. Tubb's Great American and European - 1876
Wanted, for the season 0f 1876, talent, male and female, in all branches of the circus business, for A. A. Tubbs & Co.'s Great American and European Circus, to be stationed at Philadelphia during the Centennial. Address Wm. T. Aymar, equestrian manager, Wood street, Philadelphia. Concert privilege for sale. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, February 26, 1876, p. 384.
The "American and European Equestrian Aggregation" is the title of a circus that will show at the corner of Broad and Callowhill streets, Philadelphia, during the coming Centennial season. A. A. Tubbs & Co. are the proprietors and Charley Whitney is to be director of publications. New York Clipper, April 1, 1876, p. 7.
The American and European Circus will open for a six months' season at their new amphitheatre, Broad and Callowhill streets, April 29th. A. A. Tubbs & Co. are the proprietors; Charley Whitney, business manager; and W. T. Aymar, equestrian manager. They will have 30 ring and pad horses and 6 ponies, and 30 performers in ring. No animals will be on exhibition. New York Clipper, April 22, 1876, p. 31.
The Grand American and European Circus, under the management of A. A. Tubbs & Co., inaugurated on the 29th of April their season at their new establishement in Philadelphia. It covers an area of two hundred square feet. The canvas is one hundred feet in width and one hundred and sixty feet long. The seats, arranged in tiers, accommodate between 3,500 and 4,000 persons. The facade fronting is in the form of an arch, handsomely painted and decorated. New York Clipper, May 6, 1876, p. 47.
The American and European Circus company includes the Aymar, Stokes, Dunbar and Derious families, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Hemming, Rudolph Mette, Wash. Antonio, Frank Moulton, the Denzier Brothers, Bliss, Gleason, Bert, Cutler, Long, Parry and Young Ajax. The proprietors are A. A. Tubbs & Co., and veteran Charles Whitney, press agent. New York Clipper, May 13, 1876, p. 55.
The American and European Circus, at Philadelphia, closed last week for want of patronage. New York Clipper, June 3, 1876, p. 79.
The American and European Circus, Philadelphia, will be reopened on the 10th of June with a new company. New York Clipper, June 10, 1876, p. 87.
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Tucker Circus Co. - 1895
• 1894: Springfield, Massachusetts. Tucker’s Parlor Theatre . . . H. B. Tucker has taken into partnership P. F. Shea and Mr. Tucker assumes the fall(?) management of the theatre. New York Clipper, December 8, 1894, p. 637.
1895:
Roster of Tucker's Giant Shows. Shea & Russell, proprietors; H. B. Tucker, manager; G. H. Irving, general contracting agent with seven billposters; Harry Horn, lithograph agent with one assistant; Robt. Stickney Jr., principal somersault rider; Louise De Mott, menage; John Lowlow, Shakespearean clown . . . Levinion brothers, brother act; Wiley Ferris and wife; Alex Wilson and wife. The big top will be 100ft. with two 30ft. middle pieces; two six pole horse tents and side show tent. There will be thirty-five people in camp, while forty will stop at hotels. We will have a jubilee band and drum corps. New York Clipper, April 20, 1895, p. 99.
Springfield [Massachusetts] Tucker’s Circus opened its season in this city 11(?), to large business. New York Clipper, May 18, 1895, p. 163.
A "Giant" Show Stranded. A Circus in Difficulty at Skowhegan. Skowhegan, Me., June 28. Tucker’s Giant show, a circus traveling across the country with teams, is stranded here. Some twenty claims of the principal performers and employees for back pay were place in the hands of lawyers here today and close jail writs were served on H. B. Tucker, P. F. Shea and John L. Russell, managers. They are in charge of Sheriff Viles. Trouble among the managers and light business caused the trouble. Twenty of the men found employment here in the construction of the electric road. Bangor Daily Whig and Courier (Bangor, ME), June 29. 1895, p. 1.
Hugh C. Whiting informs us that the Tucker Show went to pieces in Maine, leaving performers and workingmen with several weeks' salary unpaid. New York Clipper, July 13, 1895, p. 293.
1896:
1896: Tucker Circus Co. offer a complete wagon show for sale. New York Clipper, February 1, 1896, p. 765.
$3,500. Wagon Show for sale. The following property was brand new the 11th of last May and was on the road until June 27: Big top, 100ft., with 50ft.(?) middle piece . . . 2(?) horse tents 30x40; 1 cook tent, 28x36; 30(?) lengths of 8 tier seats, 3 jacks to a stringer; 13(?) red English band coats, 12(?) blue band helmets, white plumes; __ harnesses, in 4(?) horse sets, red trimmed, red blinders, housing, drops, etc. etc., made to order for the circus business; ?? red plumes, 14 inches long, for horses; 2(?) white spangled ladies’ parade suits, 2 red satin entree suits for ladies, ? ladies’ velvet parade suits, 6 side saddles, 8 men’s velvet entree suits, pants and jackets silver trimmed, Spanish design; 8(?) men’s saddles; 1(?) fancy drapery for dressing room entrance; 24 flags 3-5, for wagons in parade, all nations; 8 white pangled horse covers for parade, _ Roman spangled bridles, 12 drivers’ blue coats and caps, _ clown suits, 8 Roman spangled den ___, different colors; _ ladies parade jackets, red; 4(?) ladie’s Mexican parade hats, _ front draperies for reserved seats; __ quarter pole banners; 50(?) flags, 2-? for big top, all colors; 1 band stand music rack, all complete; 1 bass drum, 1 snare drum; _ leaping run and jacks, 1 leaping tick, 1 set of steel layout pins . . . 1 Morray stake puller, 1 ring plow, 8 sledges, 8 shovels . . . 1 tapestry medallion, 10x25, for ring tumbling; 1 large bandwagon, ver attractive, gold and red seats; 14(?) heavy platform springs; 1 small band wagon, ornamented with white and told seats; 12 platform springs; 4 light cages 10ft long, all mounted on platform springs; 1 large canvas wagon, painted white, with mirror sides, goes in parade, platform springs; 1 ticket wagon, painted English vermilion, goes in parade, platform spring; 1 seat wagon, dead axle; 1 pole wagon, very strong, heavy platform springs; 1 peacock parade wagon for 2 ponies; 1 stake and chain wagon, platform spring; 1 wagonette passenger wagon, seats 8(?); 3 clown cars; 1 4 horse cage. This property is in fine shape and can be seen in Springfield, Mass. Will be sold in bulk for $3,500. Tucker’s Circus Co., Parlor Theatre, Springfield, Mass. New York Clipper, February 15, 1896, p. 798.
• 1897: The Maginleys, while performing at the New Gilmore Theatre, Springfield, Mass., were of Nov 12(?), bought of P. F. Shea & Co. a band wagon, advance wagon, a four horse cage for ticket wagon and four other baggage wagons, and circus property of the Tucker Little Giant Show, for the Maginleys’ Big Wagon Show, which opens early in May. New York Clipper, November 27, 1897, p. 649.
• 1903: Cleveland, Ohio, Nov. 8. The vaudeville theatre in this city heretofore known as Chase’s Empire was sold to-day to P. G. Shea of New York, who owns theatres in Worcester and Springfield, Mass. A new circuit of Rochester, Buffalo, Toronto, Cleveland and Detroit has been formed. Shea and his partner controlling theatres in these cities. New York Times, November 9, 1903, p. 7.
• 1922: Patrick F. Shea, owner of several theaters in New England . . . died suddently at noon yesterday . . . in his office . . . New Amsterdam Theatre Building. He started in the vaudeville branch of the theatrical business forty years ago, and became the first general manager of the Keith Circuit. [Died August 23, 1922.] NY Times, August 24, 1922, p. 11.
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Harry Tulip's - 1898
Notes from Harry Tulip's Railroad Circus. We are in our eighth week. Roster: Arthur Fisher, manager; Harry Tulip, proprietor; Frank Lowery, manager of sideshow; O. Everheart, general agent; James Palmer, supt. stock; T. Walker, supt. cook house; Prof. Johnson's Military Band; M. Johnson, equestrian director; Bros. Hunt, F. Lowning, Bros. La Grande, Stanley Bros., Ida West, Prof. Drander's troupe of performing Shetland ponies, Jennie Campbel, Mabel La Grange, Blanch Standley, Oscar Parks, Harry Tulip and Frank Moore. Big top, sideshow tent, two horse tents, cook tent and dressing tent. We carry twenty-eight head of horses and twenty-foru head of Shetland ponies. New York Clipper, July 23, 1898, p. 337.
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Lucky Tull's Dog & Pony Show - 1911, 1917
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1911-13, 1939
1911: Lucky Tull's Dog & Pony Show is now in the Lone Star State. The outfit carries thirty head of mules for draft stock. The show will go into quarters in a few weeks for repairs, etc. The Tull Show will use twenty wagons, fifty head of draft stock, sixteen ponies, ten head of bronchos, tweuty-five dogs and twelve monkeys and a number of circus acts, an 80 foot round top with two 30 middlepieces for the big show. Roster at present includes: Lucky Tull, manager; Mrs. A. A. Tull, secretary and treasurer; Art Gardner, general agent; Prof. Frank Lenard, equestrian director; M. V Tull, in charge of all draft stock; Le Roy Bros., Roman rings; Dobell, trapeze; Kid Le Roy, slack wire and contortionist; Lem Hobbs, rube and clown; Bert Hobbs, superintendent of canvas, with eight assistants. Billboard, November 25, 1911, p. 27.
1917: The Lucky Tull Greater European Shows are in winter qaarters at San Antonio, Tex., after a successful season of forty weeks. Many improvements are being made to the outfit for the coming season, when the show will go out with ten cages of animals, nine baggage wagons, thirty-head of Shetland ponies, and a new spread of canvas. Billboard, February 10, 1917, p. 67.
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Lucky Tull & Yoder Bros. - 1913
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1913
While en route from Madill, Okla., to Boswell, Miss Ruth Craven, broncho rider and cowgirl, with the Lucky Tull and Yoder Bros. Combined Wild West Dog and Pony Shows, fell from the train, which was running at a speed of about thirty miles an hour. The train was backed about two miles, and she was found walking up the track, uninjured, save for a few bruises. It was a miracle she was not killed or severely injured. Billboard, June 14, 1913, p. 21.
Lucky Tull and Yoder Bros. Show closed at Monte, Md., recently, owing to lack of business. The show will probably be re-organized in a few weeks. Billboard, July 5, 1913, p. 33.
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A. Turner's Columbian Circus - 1831
Program of 1831. 1. Grand display of Arabian Horses, which will lie down and sit up with their riders. 2. Riding master, A. Turner. 3. Clown, Sands. 4. Ground and lofty tumbling, by entire company. 5. Comic song, Sands. 6. Balancing, Pentland. 7. Golden Shower, Sands. 8. Indian war dance on horseback, Jackson. 9. Song (The good old days of Adam and Eve), Pentland. 10. Horsemanship by a clown, Sands. 11. Grand Trampleen by Turner, over a number of horses, concluded by a glying leap thru a balloon on fire. 12. Horsemanship, Turner, Jr. (10 years of age) anyone who can duplicate his act can pick up $1,000 from the management. 13. Slack rope walker, Andrews. 14. Concluding farce, "Miller & Coalman." This show played Providence, R.I., Aug. 5 and 6, 1831. Show was put on indoors at a permanent circurs building. Nite shows only were given at 8 p.m., with the doors open at 7 p.m. Price for boxes were 50 cents, while the pit was 25 cents and all children under 10 years of age got in for half price. Banner Line, September 15, 1966 (No. 462), p. 9.
A. Turner, Sons & Co. - 1838
[Advertisement] American Arena or Circus Company, by Messrs. A. Turner, Sons & Co. The proprietors of this establishment have the honor to announce to the inhabitants of Bangor and vicinity, that their circus will be open in this city on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, the 3d, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th of July, on a lot near the Penobscot ___ for five days only, with their extensive and beautiful stud of horses, and company of first rate equestrian performers.
The scenes in the circle will present an assemblage of talent and manly activity, unsurpassed by any other establishment. The arena is fitted up with every comfort and convenience. In fact, the managers flatter themselves that with their personal exertions, and the succession of novelties they will produce, constitute one of the most varied, animated and interesting equestrian entertainments ever presented to the American public. Doors open at 7. Performance will commence at 1/2 past 7. Admission 25 cents. Children under 10 years of age half price. On the 4th of July, doors open at 1 1/2 p.m. Performance then will commence at 2 o'clock p.m. Bangor Daily Whig and Courier (ME), June 27, 1838, n.p.n.
A. Turner & Co. - 1850-51
1850:
The splendid Equestrian company of the Messrs. Turner will give an entertainment at Knoxville on the 6th of August, at Wellsboro on the 7th, and at Tioga village on the 8th. This company is one of the best in point of talent and long experience in the routine of Circus business. Mr. T. V. Turner's four horse act is a splendid piece of riding and rarely equalled by any other performer. Mr. Myers, the clown, is a comical genius, and does his part in inimitable style, and has few superiors in the equestrian arena. Tioga Eagle (Wellsboro, PA), July 31, 1850, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] Circus. A. Turner & Co., proprietors, under the direction of Dr. E. Ganung. The proprietors would respectfully announce to the citizens of Wellsborough, and vicinity, that their splendid equestrian troupe will visit this place, and open for exhibition on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 1850, or one day only. Doors open at two o'clock. Performance commences at half-past two o'clock, in the afternoon and half-past seven o'clock in the evening. Admission 25 cents. Children under 10 years, half-price.
The Scenes in the Circus will be introduced with the utmost order and regularity, and will combine a great variety of equestrian performances many of which are entirely new. No expense has been spared in getting novelty of every kind to please the public, as the names of the peformers will testify, many of which are favorable known to the public, viz., N. B. Turner, T. V. Turner, J. Estley, J. W. Myers, S. Miller, R. Hoe, Mons Henry, J. Haslett, J. ___, M. Lipman, Mast Ward, Mast Wyath.
The manager would assure those who may favor them with their presence, that the strictest scrutiny is paid to the nature and character of the scenes selected for their amusement, and on no occasion will ribaldry be used by the clowns or singers. The whole to be conducted with a strict regard to morality and virtue. A splendid brass and sring band of music, accompanies the exhibition. Leader S. Neave, Director H. Neave. Tioga Eagle (Wellsboro, PA), July 31, 1850, n.p.n.
1851:
A. Turner & Company's Combined Menagerie & Circus. The animals are those which were exhibited throughout the principal cities of Europe by Van Amburgh. The performing elephant Abdallah excites the wonder and surprise of every individual who has seen his almsot incredible performances. The equestrian troupe is without its superior in the known world, among which is that celebrated six horse rider, N. B. Turner, and that clown of all clowns, John Myers. Will exhibit at Wellsboro on Saturday, the 21st day of June, inst. Doors open at 1 1/2 and 6 1/2 o'clock. Performances commence at 2 and 7 p.m. Admission 25 cents. Children under 9 years, half price. Tioga Eagle (Wellsborough, PA), June 5, 1851, n.p.n.
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Turner's Dog & Pony Show
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1898.
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Turner Bros. Dog & Pony Show - 1958-59 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1958-59
An article on the 1958-59 Turner Bros. Dog & Pony show is online in Bandwagon, Jul-Aug 1965 (scroll down or use find).
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Otis Turner's United Shows - 1900
Report that they are doing a nice business, and are traveling through a must beautiful country. The show comprises the following circus artists: Mr. Mononee(?), contortionist; the O'Kyle Bros., acrobats; Mr. Norman, high diver and trapeze performer; Mr. Watiers, slack rope walker; Frank La Rue, rings. Billboard June 23, 1900, p. 5. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Tuttle's - 1889, 1890-97, 1900, 1905
1889:
The Tuttle Family begin operation April 29 with the Olympic Circus at Lewiston, Pa., traveling by wagon. New York Clipper, April 13, 1889, p. 81.
1890:
Wanted for Tuttle Family Olympic Show for 1890, contortionist, bar performers, also variety people, those who play brass preferred. A good sideshow tent for sale, new last Spring. . . . Address Tuttle Family, Olympic Show, Selinsgrove, Snyder Co. Pa. New York Clipper, January 11, 1890, p. 737.
On the Road, Circuses: Tuttle Family, Litchfield, Ct., June 12. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 210.
1891:
Fred Tuttle’s Pavilion Show will open . . . May 1, with the following people: Fred, Annie, Nellie and Jessie Tuttle, Charley McBride . . . Bill Whalen, Geo. Lee . . . The show will also carry twelve head of horses and a band and orchestra. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 134.
A. F. Tuttle’s Pavilion Show ran out of gasoline at ___, Pa., May 1?, and, as they showed near the gas line, they had it piped in the tent, and the night performance was illuminated with natural gas. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 182.
1892:
Wanted, variety and circus people, except riders, those playing brass preferred. Like to hear from sideshow or museum managers. Will rent or buy steam calliope and a small troupe of performing dogs. Season opens April ??. A. F. Tuttle, Linesville, Crawford County, Pa. Olympic Circus. New York Clipper, March 12, 1892, p. 14.
A. F. Tuttle’s Olympic Show opens at Louisville, Pa., May 2(?) with the following roster: A. F. Tuttle, sole owner and manager; H. O. Cunningham, advance, with two billposters; Prof. P. E. George, leader of band and orchestra; Chas. King, equestrian director; Paranto Brothers, gymnasts and acrobats; Harry Wise, contortionist; Leon Dunbar, gymnast; Frank T. West, slack wire; Birmingham and Ryan, sketch team; Ella Maywood, revolving globe and trapeze; Mrs. A. F. Tuttle, serio comic; Nellie Tuttle, cornet solo; Jessie Tuttle, song and dance; Prof. Hamilton’s troupe of trained dogs; Henry Knipple, boss hostler; Frank Lewis, boss canvas man, with five assistants. The show travels by wagon, using twenty head of horses . . . New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 114.
Wanted, one more contortionist, one violin and cornet player, one horizontal bar man. Show travels by wagon. A. F. Tuttle, Linesville, Pa. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 127.
1893:
Charles E.(F.?) McBride has signed with Tuttle’s Pavilion Show. New York Clipper, January 14, 1893, p. 721.
A. F. Tuttle’s Olympic Circus, now wintering a Linesville, Pa., will open their season at that place May 1. The wagons are newly painted, a new 100x80ft. top will be added to the show, also a large side show and museum. The show will travel by wagon with twenty-five head of stock. New York Clipper, February 25, 1893, p. 821.
Wanted, for the Tuttle’s Olympic Show all performers except riders and would like to hear from sideshow people who have sideshow to put on the road. Wagon show. Show opens at Linesville, Pa., May 1. A. F. Tuttle, proprietor. New York Clipper, February 25, 1893, p. 828.
Mons. Taylor, contortionist, and his canine paradox have signed with A. F. Tuttle’s Olympic Shows. New York Clipper, March 25, 1893, p. 34.
Notes from A. F. Tuttle’s Show. The show is playing return dates through Washington, Allegheny and Greene Counties, Pa., and is doing a big business. Prof. Chas. E. McBride and H. O. Cunningham have joined the show. Prof. Taylor was called away in Columbus, O., but has joined the show again. . . . Geo. Parento fell from his pyramid of tables and chairs recently, but is able to work. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
On the road, circuses: Tuttle’s . . . Oak Forrest PA 17, Mt. Morris 18, Dunkard 19 . . . New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
While Tuttle’s Circus was en route to Upper Middletown, Ct., about 5(?) a.m. July 20, and within two miles of the town, descending a steep mountain, the pole wagon became unmanageable and run down at a furious speed, crashing into the wagon loaded with Mons. Taylor’s dogs, killing one instantly and seriously injuring two others. Charles McBride received serious, though not fatal, injuries. He was taken to a physician’s office and an ugly cut on his head was sewed up. His body was considerably bruised and scratched. He was the boss canvas man, and was asleep on the pole wagon. The horses received no injuries beyong a few scratches. Both wagons were totally smashed. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
Wanted, to strengthen my show, a few more performers. Can use wire and juggler, and a violinist and all round performers. One show a day. A. F. Tuttle Circus, Irwin, West Moreland Co., Pa. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 338.
A cyclone and hail storm struck Tuttle's Olympic Show at Summerville, Pa., Sept. 7, and laid everything flat, breaking side poles and completely tearing the main top beyond repair. The troupe will exhibit with the side walls until a new top can be procured. New York Clipper, September 16, 1893, p. 447.
Geo. Parento, equilibrist and aerialist, and Nellie Tuttle, cornetist, members of Tuttle's Olympic Show, were married at Jamestown, N.Y., on Sept. 19. New York Clipper, September 30, 1893, p. 480.
Tuttle's Circus closed their season at Blooming Valley, Pa., Sept. 29. Charles McBride is visiting H. O.(?) Cunningham at Stewartson, W. Va. New York Clipper, October 14, 1893, p. 510.
1894:
Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Circus. "The show will open at Linesville, Pa., May 2(?), with a brand new outfit. A. F. Tuttle will be sole proprietor and manager. The show will be conducted on sound business principles. The following people are already engaged: Ed Thardo, Dan Murphy, Chas. McBride, Tom O'Brien . . . Minnie Nolan, Harry Nolan and George Miller. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 833.
Notes from A. F. Tuttle's Olympic Shows. Everything is on the hustle around our headquarters, Pine Farms, Linesville, Pa. The people so far engaged are: Ed. Thardo, Ed. Neolo, Billie Morris, Jessie Day, Nellie Warde . . . Steve Mackenzie . . . Chas. McBride and Willie Weicks; John Murphy, boss canvas man with seven assistants . . . advance, Geo. Churchill and F. W. Dolan; A. F. Tuttle, proprietor and manager; Mrs. Anna Tuttle, treasurer. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68.
Billy Morris has signed as singing and talking clown, and to introduce his brindle bull dog, Tiger, for this season with Tuttle's Big Olympic Shows. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68.
1895:
Notes from Tuttle & Co.'s Olympic Shows. We are in our sixth week. Roster: Advance No. 1, Phil Hunt, contracting agent; Chas. H. Franklyn, in charge of paper; Charles Brindel, lithographer; C. F. Vickers, programmer; A. W. Rooney, boss billposter with three assistants; W. G. Buck, Billy Blondie, Frank C. Hunt, Chas. Leonard and William Henry, drivers. New York Clipper, June 1, 1895, p. 195.
Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Circus. We are in our twelfth week. George Parento joined the show June 3, with his table pyramid act. Ed. Thardo, Mexican knife thrower, is assisted by Nellie Parento. Little Jessie, contortion act, and Prof. Williams' trained dogs, make a hit. Phil Hunt closed June 15. Mr. Tuttle is now in charge of the advance, and Mrs. Tuttle is managing the show. New York Clipper, July 13, 1895, p. 293.
1896:
Notes from the Great Olympic Shows. We open our eighth annual season at Louisville, Pennsylvania, May 2. Roster: A. F. Tuttle, sole proprietor and manager; Mrs. A. F. Tuttle, general accountant; Sisters Tuttle, vocalists and dancers; Ed Thardo, equestrian director; Forest and West, triple horizontal bars and brother act; Welch and Evans, trapeze and flying rings; the Thardos, Ed and Nellie, knife and battle axe throwers; Jessie Tuttle's somersault and waltzing dogs; T. J. Madden, singing and talking clown; Nellie Madden, song and dance; Val Leonzo, human python; Eddie De Alva, high wire and juggler; Stone and Mason, musical act and knockabout clowns; A. F. Tuttle, banjo comedian; Jim Farrell, supt. of canvas; Dad Allen, boss hostler . . . We will tour Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey. New York Clipper, May 9, 1896, p. 151.
Eddie D'Alva, wire walker and juggler, has joined Tuttle's Olympic Circus. He will double with his old partner, Geo. Parento, for the regular season. New York Clipper, July 11, 1896, p. 293.
1897:
Tuttle & Co.'s Olympic Show notes. We are touring Pennsylvania. Roster: A. F. Tuttle, proprietor; Mrs. Tuttle, treasurer; Ed Thado, equestrian director; Eddie De Alva, clown; Mons. De Alva, juggler and wire; The Thardos, Ed and Nellie, impalement act; Little Jessie Thardo, contortion; Fred Tuttle, comedian; the Smiths, Ed and Addie, carrying perch; Prof. McConnell's band; W. Van, canvas boss with five assistants; Chas. Smith, boss hostler; and W. Peard and Frank Robinson ahead. New York Clipper, June 26, 1897, p. 271.
Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Show. At Everett, Pennsylvania, July 5, Prof. McHugh was to have made a balloon ascension, but was ill, and Doc De Alva, who is an old aeronaut, took his place, and made an ascension, rising to five thousand feet, when he cut the parachute away and made the descent, alighting about fifty feet from the big top. This is his first trip to the clouds in three years. The Thardos, Ed and Nellie, assisted by Master Paul, have added a statuary act. Jake Maloney closed at Frugality, and his place is filled by Tony Piablo. W. H. S. Pearl is agent. New York Clipper, July 24, 1897, p. 335.
1900: Show takes the road May 1. Billboard, May 1, 1900, p. 6.
1905: Notes from the Tuttle Olympic Shows. We are still on the road, and though this is our fifteenth season, we are making more money than ever before. We carry fourteen people as follows: Mr. and Mrs. A. F. Tuttle, proprietors and managers; Jack Hunt, business manager; Jessie Troy, contractor; Fred Martin, juggling and balancing act; Brothers Levondo, aerialists; Murdock Lord, balancing act; Marvello, acrobat; Prof. Hartzell, pianist; and Clint Platt, boss canvasman with three assistants. We do not carry a band, though we are out for all season. Our advance agent is Harry Germaine. Billboard, July 1, 1905, p. 35.
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