Circus Historical Society
P. T. Barnum's Greatest Show on Earth, 1883
(Barnum & London)
My Diary or Route Book of P. T. Barnum's Greatest Show on Earth and The Great London Circus for the Season of 1883. Compiled by Alvaro Bentancourt [A. B. Stewart]. All information should be checked with additional sources. There will be spelling and typographical errors.
Officers of the Barnum & London Shows
J. A. Bailey, General Manager.
J. L. Hutchinson, Financier.
Frank Hyatt, Assistant Manager.
L. M. Hedges, Assistant Manager.
Merritt Young, Treasurer.
Ben. Fish, Secretary.
J. T. McCaddon, Assistant Treasurer.
Fred Levens, Ticket Seller.
Byron V. Rose, Superintendent of Transportation.
Thomas A. Gallagher, John Cooper, Special Officers of Pinkerton’s Agency.
Richard Fryer, Equestrian Director.
Prof. James Robinson, Musical Director.
Charles McLean, Master of Canvas.
William L. Wilson, Homer Silvey, Al. Cole, Assistant Masters of Canvas.
James Fuqua, Master of Stables.
Dr. William Smith, Veterinary Surgeon.
Peter Halstead, Master of Repairs.
Geo. W. Johnson, Master of Menagerie.
R. H. King, Tom. Kelly, Layers out and Forage Agents.
Geo. Arstingstall, Trainer of Elephants. William Newman, Assistant.
Mathew Scott, Jumbo’s Keeper.
Carl Nyegard, Trainer of Studs and Ring Master.
S. S. Smith, Zoological Lecturer and Ring Master.
William Rolland, Ring Master.
Charles B. Warren, Chief Door Keeper. Harry Merrian, Assistant.
Mrs. C. White, Mistress of Wardrobe. Willie A. White, Assistant.
Judson Webb, Chief of Property Men.
William Simpson, Chief Usher.
A. E. Smith, Router of Parade.
Charles Lloyd, Proprietor of Programme.
A. B. Stewart, Mail and Programme Agent.
Performers, Circus Department
Ladies:
Madame Caroline Rolland, Miss Lizzie Rolland, Annie Carroll, Principal Bareback Riders.
Miss Emma Jutau, Double Trapeze and Slide by the Teeth.
Miss Maggie Claire, Flying Rings.
Miss Louise Boshell, Slack Wire.
Miss Adelina, High Wire Ascension and Juggling.
Miss Rose, Skating.
Madame Buishay, Manage.
Miss Etta, Contortion.
Miss Katie Elliott, Miss Polly Elliott, Miss Annie Elliott, Unicycle and Bicycle.
Mrs. Stoner, Snake Charmer.
Mrs. Caicedo, Miss Morgan, Miss Chapman, Miss Elliott, Entree Riders.
Gentlemen:
Frank Melville, Principal Bareback.
William Ducrow, Bareback and Slack Rope.
Buislay and Warland, Flying Trapeze.
Juan A. Caicedo, Tight Wire.
George Brown, Double Trapeze.
Gilfort Brothers (2), Roman Gladiators and feats of strength.
Etton Brothers (3), Brother Act.
Girards (3), Grotesque Dancing and High Kicking.
Professor Elliott, Tommy Elliott, Jennie Elliott, Mattie Elliott, Unicycle and Bicycle Riders.
C. E. Harris, Geo. French, Artistic Skating.
John Crossley, William Elder, Caledonian Sports.
Davenport Brothers, Brother Act and Sparring.
Charles Matchett, Charles Engelbrecht, Scientific Fencing.
John McMahon, Edward Decker, Collar and Elbow Wrestlers.
Joe Wilton, Sam. Romer, Ed. Laroux, Tom. Watson, Double Horizontal Bar.
Natalio Lowande, Perch.
Frank Ashton, Posturing.
Milo Brothers (2), Brother Act.
Clowns:
Billy Burke, With his Budget of Songs.
William Conrand, With Performing Elephant Don.
Joe Keuebel, French Clown.
George Melville, Country Innocent.
Charles Bliss, Tumbling Clown.
Maurice Girard, Fred Mendoza, The Dudes.
Leapers, Tumblers and General Performers:
| Harry Long | Geo. Bliss | Edwin Fritz | Clint Romelli |
| Robert Leando | James Campbell | James Donovan | Eddie Snow |
| Isidro Castellano | Frank Morgan | John Hunterson | Louis Snow |
Royal Japanese Troupe:
Phil J. Kirby, Agent.
Five Female Nautch Dancers, Six Jugglers, Wire Walkers and Equipoise Artists, Three Wrestlers.
Hippodrome Department
Lady Jockeys: Miss May Stewart, Miss Christine Stickney, Miss Jennie Sawyer, Miss Nellie Venoa.
Chariot Drivers, Four Horses: Madame Rheinhardt, Madame Watson, Walter Ries.
Roman Standing Race Riders: Frank Morgan, John Hunterson, Eddie Snow, Tom Watson.
Male Jockeys: Walter Ries, Isidro Castello, Robert Fleming, William Hunter.
Runners: John Crossley, Wm. Elder, Harry Thomas.
Cowboys: Bill Cook, Jack Sutton.
Robinson’s Celebrated Band
| James S. Robinson, Conductor | George Lee, Solo Bb Cornet | Just A. Weber, 1st Bb Cornet |
| Arthur Jones, 2d Bb Cornet | W. H. Higgins, Eb Cornet | W. W. Bennett, Eb Piccolo |
| Louis Schultz, 1st Eb Clarionet | J. R. Wotman, 2d Eb Clarionet | C. G. Bronson, Solo Bb Clarionet |
| John Savage, 2d Bb Clarionet | Albert Hauptman, Solo Eb Alto | Harry Biddiscombe, 1st Eb Alto |
| Ed Weber, 2d Eb Alto | W. L. Marsh, Solo Trombone | Ed Letford, 2d Trombone |
| G. I. Partridge, 3d Trombone | Frank Hatton, Solo Euphoniam | Ferdinand Spitzner, Eb Tuba |
| Allen Simpson, Small Drum | Wm. Fitzgerald, Cymbals &c | W. A. Gaffney, Bass Drum |
Partridges’ Famous Continental Band (Headquarters, Franklin, Mass.)
| G. I. Partridge, Leader | J. R. Woltman, Eb Clarionet | J. Savage, Bb Clarionet |
| W. Fitzgerald, Cornet and Eb Bugle | F. O. Neill, Bb Fife | E. F. Partridge, Snare Drum |
| C. F. Reed, Snare Drum | A. C. Gouldon, Snare Drum | C. N. Lindsey, Triange and Bass Drum |
Calliope, Bell Chimes and Steam Organ
Thomas King, Calliope Player.
Charles Bernard, Bell Chimes.
James Hughes, Licensed Engineer and Organist.
Band of Caledonian Pipers: Wm. Ennson, James Hay, Alexander Lenter, McIntosh Adamson.
Ticket Sellers, Door Keepers, &c., &c.
Main Entrance: Charles B. Warren, Chief Door Keeper. Door Keepers: Louis Hedges, Byron Rose, W. D. Hagar.
Reserved Seats, Door Keepers: James Higbee, E. J. Partridge, C. F. Reed.
Dressing Room Door Keeper: Henry Engelke.
Outside Ticket Sellers: Frank Drew, Manager.
| John W. McCagney | Geo. W. Dasch | John E. Lippincott | John O’Donnell |
| Wm. Fairchild | A. E. Smith |
Autobiography of P. T. Barnum: Sam Dessauer, Agent.
Museum Department
Two Wild Men of Borneo: Dr. H. A. Warner, Manager. Ernest H. Warner, Assistant.
Col. Ruth Goshen, Giant.
Royal Japanese Dancers (females 5). Phil H. Kirby, Manager.
Australian Cannibals, Boomerang Throwers and Black Trackers, lowest of the human race (6 men, 2 women, 1 boy). R. A. Cunningham, Manager.
Soudan Nubians, Wild Beast Hunters from Central Africa (13). Salvo Bugeja, Manager.
| Malnned | Odam | Mustafor | Mahmet Mekal |
| Bilal | Hamid | Tisa | Abu Amena Hamagor |
| Ali | Mahmet Ali | Mahmet Adam | Nadil Hadah |
Texas Cowboys (2).
Genuine Zulu Warriors, 4 men, 1 woman and child.
Two Native Priests of Burmah (with Sacred Bull), Enos Josephs, manager.
Wardrobe Department
Mrs. Annie White, Mistress of Wardrobe. Willie White, Assistant. John Stacks, Al. Leith.
Property Men
Judson C. Webb, Master of Properties. B. C. Hammond, Assistant.
| Ring No. 1 | Stage | Ring No. 2 |
| W. F. Nagel | Geo. W. Ross | P. Smith |
| Neil Farrel | Geo. F. Bell | A. T. Osman |
| C. F. Furman | Jas. C. Regan | T. Dunigan |
| Jas. Monroe | W. Marton | H. McDonald |
| C. L. Reed | H. McDonald |
Advance Corps
Andrew Haight, Gen. R. R. Contractor.
W. W. Durand, R. F. Hamilton, D. S. Thomas, Press Agents.
J. R. Davis, J. B. Gaylord, Foreign Agents.
C. Stowe, J. E. Warner, Ed Tinkham, Ora Ensminger, M. B. Cowles, Special Agents.
Car No. 1, Henry C. Hedges, Superintendent.
| Tom Dailey | F. Houghton | N. Ackley | D. Doyle |
| J. Shannabrook | D. Holbrook | G. Colliar | W. Isham |
| J. Donohue | C. Venable | J. Ellis |
| Charles Browne | A. Frasier | H. Gallagher | G. Cummings |
| F. Conrad | Al West | J. H. Smith | J. Gorman |
| J. Baldwin | J. Lawlor | J. H. Bans |
| E. M. Losin | A. J. Wilds | R. C. Wiler | C. Rosa |
| W. Goncher | L. Gadwell | B. Pearson | E. Davidson |
| D. Geiger |
| Joe Curry | John Angevine | Fred. C. Reynolds | Barney Lirk |
| Charles Taylor | Chas. Roell | Jas. Reaidon | N. S. Black |
| Will Dumont | Ernest Beach |
| E. C. Beach | O. J. Stanton | Robert Curran | James Orr |
| Geo. Cummings | Myer VanAllen | Hamilton Boyd | Ed.Davidson |
| Wm. P. Fay | James Lawler | Charles Roell | Jas. Gorman |
Canvasmen
Charles McLean, Master of Canvas.
Assistants: Wm. L. Wilson, Homer Silvey, Alfred Cole, R. Schultz.
Big Top, Homer Silvey, Al. Cole, Superintendents.
| Frank Wiltshire | Tom Slocum | Tom Pedicord | Collins Molloy | Chauncey Hobby |
| Harry McCracken | Geo. Barrett | John Dugan | Michael Dugan | Dewitt Brill |
| James McGowan | Wm. Knight | Wm Simms | Robt. Black | Charles McGuire |
| J. E. Moulthrop | John Nolan | Dan Mulloy | Thos. Sanderson | John Roke |
| Geo. Walters | Edward Ray | Phil Brennan | Richard Bryan | Frank McLaughlin |
| Geo. W. Laflin | Pat. Crosby | Ed. Cromwell | Dan Reardon | Con. Conners |
| James Fox | Amos Spangler | George Langson | Michael Ennis | Hugh Travers |
| Charles Randell | William Murphy | Charles Flipps | Frank Peets | R. Taylor |
| Pete Phalen | Jas. King | Henry Heitman | Tom Fullerton | John Forgette |
| Louis Reiger | Harry Ford | Royal Sniffins | Frank Wells | Geo. Angus |
| Fred Lavige | Jas. B. Lavenspiker | Oakland Hines | Frank Zipp | James Smith |
| David Hamilton | Theo. Milhoon | Joseph Gordin | Wm. Franklin | Sam Purtell |
| Geo. McCabe | Julius Henning | John Lankin | Charles Witskey | Mike Snowburger |
| George Patterson | Richard A. Hunt | Dan Spangler | Joe Huber | Harry Berkenshore |
| Pat Kane | Will Terrell | Seymour Richmond | Wm. Hall | J. W. Baker |
| Harry Sullivan | Calvin B. Ditmar |
| John Platt | Sam Gardiner | Oliver Bradley | Joseph O’Brien | John Fox |
| Charles Lewis | John McKegg | Arthur Bell | Walter Griffin | John Reilly |
| Phil Ritter | Frank Simmons | Thos. Flynn | James Minor | Thomas Ryan |
| James Coleman | Thomas Reilley | Joseph Spanala | Charles Fessler | James Reilley |
| James Kelley | Charles Smith | Charles Miller | William Pointer | Louis Pointer |
| Arthur Stultz |
| Hiram Simmons | John Wims | Elsworth Smith | John Brown | Charles King |
| Pete Wilson | Thos. Graves | Wm. Snyder |
Railroad Men
Byron V. Rose, Master of Transportation. David Wiltshire, Assistant
George Sholders, Watchman Baggage Train.
Al. Minor, Watchman Cage Train.
Sam Cooper, Watchman Elephant Train.
| Ed. Horn | Tom Scott | Wm. Gilliland | Benj. Given | Geo. Beya |
| Walker Homer | Wm. Peek | Wm. Baker | Andy Murty | Joseph Racine |
| Dan. Close | Westley Blair | Arthur Steele | John Swisher | Wm. Glenn |
| E. O. Weely |
Theron Vosburgh, Manger.
John A. Vosburgh, Baggage Master.
Porter Car No. 50, Dan F. Loder.
Porter Car No. 51, Frank Huffman, David Vosburg.
Porter Car No. 52, Ed. Fagan.
Porter Car No. 53, George H. White.
Porter Car No. 57, Fred. Vaughn.
Porter Car No. 55, Henry Ackley.
Porter Car No. 56, Wm. Lilley, Wm. Austin.
Porter Car No. 73 & 146, G. E. Hackett.
Grooms and Drivers
James A. Fuqua, Master of Stables.
P. J. McCormack, Assistant No. 1. Andy Brehm, Assistant No. 2.
John Coss, Superintendent of Feed.
8 Horse Drivers
Al. Lyttle, Band Chariot No. 1. Marion Abbott, Helper.
David Denio, Band Chariot No. 2. Wm. A. Simmons, Helper.
Arthur Sylvester, Globe Tableau. Jim Conway, Helper.
Tom Lynch, Elephant Tableau. John Lippert, Helper.
6 Horse Drivers
Jim Woods, Steam Organ. Henry Sigler, Helper.
E. Murdock, Neptune Chariot.
George Hudson, Band No. 3. Wm. Schumaker, Helper.
Charles Morrison, Lion Den. Andy Dennin, Helper.
C. W. Benner, Steam Calliope. C. Debois, Helper.
Robert Meek, Big Rhinoceros. Homer Dewsbury, Helper.
Barney Kelley [Keiley?], Little Rhinoceros. Charles Ross, Helper.
4 Horse Drivers
| Hamilton Spencer, Jr. | Charles Donaghey | William Ray | A. J. Beegle | John E. Hughes |
| William J. Rudd | Edwin W. Hayden | Charles Leonard | Fred Prentice | Charles C. Clark |
| Edward Gardneer | James Lloyd | William Churchill | Jim Taylor | J. H. Wood |
| Ed Buckley | Ed Wade | Charles Snyder | Jacob Weil | Henry Jeffries |
| M. H. Tripp |
George A. Aupperle, Water Team No. 1. Henry Lee, Water Team No. 2.
2 Horse Drivers
John Reynolds, Pull Up Team.
William H. McShea, Sup’t Loading of Stock.
Lew Graham, Geo. E. Palmer, Ass’t Veterinary Surgeon.
Menagerie Department
Animal Men
George W. Johnson, Superintendent of Menagerie.
Joseph Delorme, Assistant and Den of Leopards.
Wm. H. Winner, Den of Tigers.
Stanley Carl, Den of Lions.
Timothy Buckley, Den of Hyenas.
Wm. H. Blackburne, Den of Panthers.
Thos. D. Campbell, Den of Bears.
Edwin Johnson, Giraffes.
Jockin Dehn, Wm. Conal, W. H. Maynard, Albert E. Nowlett, Henry Delorme, John Betz.
Camel Men
Wm. L. Palmer, James B. Davis, Thos. J. Kemple, Isaac Zimmerman, John V. Campbell, Jas. Sheehan.
S. S. Koch, Driver of Zebras.
Kaiser, Greyhound.
Elephant Men
George Arstingstall, Trainer and Superintendent. William Newman, Assistant.
Mathew Scott, Keeper of Jumbo.
Frank Palmer, Keeper of Queen, baby and dwarf.
| George Holton | Dan Gray | Otto Mobis | Frank Callahan | Thomas Crawford |
| George Crozier | Samuel Dunn | Charles Rieckhoff | Geo. E. White | Jack Officer |
| Wm. Butzkie |
Side Show Department
C. E. Kohl, Manager of Side Show.
W. Henshaw, Lecturer and Orator.
Frank Bristol, Ticket Seller. Charles Melville, Assistant.
Ben Corry, Door Keeper.
Miss Annie Jones, Bearded Lady.
Miss Ida Jeffries, Circassian and Snake Charmer.
Miss Mary Sawyer, Illawarra Quadroon.
Madam Milo, Madam Correy, Long Haired Wonders.
Mlle. Adelina, Outside Ascensionist.
Charlie Tripp, Armless Phenomenon.
Eli Bowen, Legless Wonder.
Shields Brothers, Jack, Shade, frank and Gus.
Giants, Two Aztecs, E. G. Browne, Agent and Manager.
J. B. Garrison, Living Skeleton.
Charles Carroll, Assistant.
Signor Giovanni, assisted by Master Charles Williams, Musical Glasses and Performing Canary Birds.
Mons. Milo, Ventriloquist.
C. A. Bonney, Musical Albino.
Robert Goins’ (Colored) Band
| Geo. Renfro, Eb | Robert Goins, Bb | Ed. Smith, Eb Alto | L. Cooper, 2nd Tenor |
| M. H. Burns, Baritone | S. K. Burns, Eb Basso | Geo. Williams, Snare Drum | W. Cheathem, Bass Drum |
Canvas Men, W. Horner, Master of Canvas. J. L. Hampton, Assistant.
| Peter Roche | Wm. Kaufman | Geo. Eldred | Joe Conlon |
| Oliver Burke | Joe Wheeler | Tom Melius | C. Woodell |
Barnum and London Concert Co.
W. D. Hagar, Manager.
S. S. Smith, Stage Manager.
Pat Reilly, The Great Irish Comedian.
McIntyre & Heath, African Delineators.
The Great Peasleys (John and Lea), Sketch Artists.
Miss Annie Morgan, Ballad Singer.
Bertie Rhinehardt, Skipping Rope Dancer.
Miss Cherry Chapman, German Character Vocalist.
Miss Maud Clifton, Serio Comic.
Cummings & McIntyre, Negro Song and Dance.
Billy Dwyer, Motto Singer.
Phil. H. Kirby’s Japanese Lady.
(Five) Nautch Dancers.
Barnum, Bailey & Hutchinson, Greatest Show on Earth
Season of 1883
New York City: Opened the season Saturday night, March 24th, with a Grand Torchlight Parade. Line was formed at the Madison Square Garden at 8 o’clock, and the Pageant moved through Madison and Fifth Avenues, Broadway, Hudson street, Eighth Avenue and Twenty-third streets. The night was clear and cold. The streets were densely packed, Brooklyn, Jersey City, Staten Island and the outlying suburbs, poured out their vast crowds to swell the immense masses of the Metropolis. Not an accident occurred. All declared it the most brilliant scene ever witnessed in the city, and the Press with one accord, styled it, The Crowning Triumph of Barnum’s Career.
Opening performance in the afternoon of Monday, March 26th. The interior of the Garden, beautifully decorated, was arranged with two rings, and between them an elevated stage.
The Programme arranged for two weeks was as follows:
Programme of Acts Subject to change.
Grand Orchestra of 24 Soloists under the direction of James S. Robinson.
Ring No. 1, Nearest Madison Avenue entrance. Stage, between the two rings for the display of Olympian games, bicycle, skatatorial and muscle specialties and classic acrobatic novelties.
1. Triumphal Pageant and Grand Entree.
2. Introduction of Jumbo, Baby Elephant, and the Marvels of the Museum.
3. Ring 1: Six imported Trakene Trick Stallions, Herr Nyegaard.
3. Ring 2: School of Performing Ponies, R. W. Fryr.
4. Grand Leaping Contest.
5. Ring 1: Champion Collar and Elbow Wrestling by John McMahon and Edward Decker.
5. Stage: Unicycle Act, delicate, marvelous and difficult. First time in America, Elliott Children.
5. Ring 2: Masterly Fencing and Dueling representations by distinguished officers of the French Army, Col. Albert Gaston and Capt. Armand Thierault.
6. Ring 1: Only Mid-Air Flying Rings and Single Rope Descent, Maggie Claire.
6. Stage: Invisible Lofty Swaying Wire, Louise Boshell.
6. Ring 2: Startling Slack Rope Achievements, William Ducrow.
7. Ring 1: Principal Bareback Trick Act, Annie Carroll.
7. Stage: Clown, Billy Burke.
7. Ring 2: Bareback Somersault and Trick Act, Wm. Dutton.
8. Ring 1: The Acme of Light and Skillful Balancing, Robert Guilfort. Officious Geo. Melville annoying him.
8. Stage: Grotesque Dancing and High Kicking, Three Girards. Meddlesome Geo. Melville worrying them.
8. Ring 2: Juggling and Hat Spinning, M’lle Addie. Impertinent Geo. Melville troubling her.
9. Ring 1: Double Horizontal bar by the Champions specially selected from the entire profession, Milton, Romer and Laroux.
9. Stage: The European Roller Skating Wonders, first appearance, M’lle Rose, Harris & French.
9. Ring 2: Caledonian Sports, Crossley and Elder.
10. Ring 1: High Leaping and Dancing Manege, Madame Martha.
10. Ring 2: Ecole de Manege and Lofty Jumps, Emma Lake.
11. Ring 1: Brother Acrobatic Originalities, Three Eltons.
11. Stage: Roman Gladiatorial Contests, Statues & Incredible Feats of Strength, Gilfort Brothers.
11. Ring 2: Gymnastic and Scientific Boxing, Davenport Bros. Acrobatic Feats, Two Milos.
12. Ring 1: Original High-Perch Contortion Act, Frank Ashton.
12. Stage: Bicycle Riding by the Greatest Experts in the World, first appearance here, Elliott Children.
12. Ring 2: The only living Female Lightning Contortionist, M’lle Etta.
13. Ring 1: Drove of Young Performing Elephants, Wm. Newman.
13. Stage: Clown Elephant “Dan,” Elephant Clown, William Conrad.
13. Ring 2: Herd of Huge Educated Elephants, George Arstingstall.
14. Ring 1: Principal Bareback Somersault and Trotting Act, Frank Melville.
14. Stage: Clown, Billy Burke.
14. Ring 2: Lady Principal Bareback Riding, First Appearance in America, Lizzie Rollande.
15. Ring 1: High Trapeze and Mid-Air Evolutions and her sensational slide down a 300 foot wire, suspended by her teeth alone, Emma Jutau and Geo. Brown.
15. Ring 2: The Flying Meteors, Buislay and Worland.
16. Grand Tournament of Ground and Lofty Tumbling by the Entire Combined Companies.
17. Ring 1: Five Horse Bareback Act, introducing reverse running and new movements, Geo. Melville.
17. Ring 2: Five Horse Bareback Riding Extraordinary, Frank Melville.
R. W. Fryer, Equestrian Director.
S. S. Smith, Wm. Rolland and Herr Nyegaard, Maitres du Cirque.
Judd C. Webb, Chief of Properties.
April 2d. P. T. Barnum, J. A. Bailey, J. L. Hutchinson and J. Elliott, arrested on complaint of Mr. Gerry, Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, who claimed the performance of the six Elliott children a violation of the code. Bail was given. A private exhibition of the Elliott’s performance was given, attended by the leading physicians, lawyers and clergy of the city, to allow them to their opinion of the good or evil effects of the exercise in the children. All decided in favor of Mr. Barnum.
April 4th. The case was tried in the Court of Special Sessions and the order of arrest against the management and father of the children was vacated by Judge Duffy. Another victory for P. T. Barnum.
The following speech, made by Mr. Barnum, previous to his arrest, gives a concise and forcible statement of the facts:
I am the last man in the world who would break the law, but I knew before I engaged the Elliott children in Portugal, that their beautiful performances are quite within the law. Mr. Gerry, President of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, is an old friend of mine. He is a gentleman of culture, honorable, wealthy, and desires to do nothing unjust. But most large institutions, like his or min, have their yellow-plushed “Jenkins,” who delight to do their dirty work, and run their little one idea into the ground. They are fanatical — think they rule the world, and instead of looking at all sides of questions, they view them only through small gimlet holes. These children make no effort; riding their bicycles is much easier than walking; and now, unless these children and myself are arrested within three minutes, you will see the most delightful bicycle exhibition imaginable. On Monday next we give a private exhibition of these children on their unicycles before several hundred of New York’s chief physicians and surgeons, and also members of the judiciary and bar. Mr. Gerry and his medical advisers will also be invited to witness this exhibition. It is unique, and quite as easy and fee from danger as walking or roller skating, and I intend that millions of my patrons in this city and throughout the country shall be gratified by witnessing it this season.
April 4th. The elephant Pilot, without cause, knocked down Bill Newman, and no doubt would have killed him but for his coolness and bravery.
April 5th, 4 a.m. Elephant Pilot died; aged 28 years. Marriage of Eddie Snow to Annie Carroll. No cards.
Monday, April 9th. The interior of the Garden changed. The Menagerie placed under the seats and 3 rings, elevated stage and a race track filled the full length of the building. The following Races were added to the other features of the ring.
Hippodrome Races
Judge, R. W. Fryer. Starter, S. S. Smith.
1st Race, Gentlemen’s Jockey Race, three times around the Track.
| Horses | Jockeys | Colors |
| Olive | Sedro Joves | Red and Blue |
| Queen | Geo. Gannon | Purple |
| Cincinnati | James Barlow | Red and Black |
| Buckshot | Robert Fleming | Green and Red |
3d Race, Ladies’ Hurdle Race, three times around.
| Horses | Lady Jockeys | Color of Streamers |
| Dohlman | Miss May Stewart | Blue and Red |
| King | Miss Rosaline Stickney | Red and White |
| Captain Jack | Miss Nellie Venoa | Purple and White |
| Gypsey | Miss Jennie Sawyer | Blue and White |
5th Race, Double Team Roman Standing Race, three times around.
| Horses | Riders | Colors |
| Tom and Jerry | Walter Reese | Yellow |
| Billy and Bird | Frank Morgan | White |
| Sanky and Chub | John Hunterson | Red |
7th Race, Elephant Race, to saddle.
8th Race, Fast Foot Race, Crossley and Elder.
9th Race, Four Horse Roman Chariot Race, three times around.
| Four Horses Abreast | Chariots | Colors |
| Colvin, Kansas, Mollie & Goldust | Madame Rhinehardt | Red & White |
| Bill, Dan, Silvia and Frank | Madame Watson | Green & White |
April 12th, Gave a morning performance for the benefit of the Actor’s Fund. All volunteered their services.
Saturday, April 21, Closed the most successful four weeks ever known in New York. The following from the New York press gives a reason for success:
“The entertainment is certainly a wonderfully varied and interesting one. What with a stage and two rings, in all of which the exhibitions were going on at one and the same time, there was a bewildering embarrassment of riches, and the observed felt that something more than the normal allowance of eyes was necessary to order not to miss anything. Taken all together the show is even more attractive than in previous seasons, and well worth seeing.” – Herald.
“The most solid and imposing personages imaginable thronged the place, and children chirped and screamed with delight, as novelty after novelty floated before their upturned vision. The whole was a tremendous success, and the show opened with eclat and profit.” – Telegram.
“In the ring performances great improvement was shown and the show was pronounced better that ever. The stage performance was an innovation and most acceptable.” – Times.
“There was no dissenting voice in the opinion that the show was the best that Barnum had ever given in New York” – Tribune.
“Mr. Barnum is giving the most entertaining show that he has ever brought to New York.” – Sun.
Monday, April 23d, one week, Brooklyn, N. Y., Ferry. Hotels: Clinton and Three Mile House.
Opened with a nasty cold rain; wet weather parade. Tuesday, cold, rain all day, snow at night; had to light fires to melt the snow from the canvas. Wednesday, clear and cold; closed doors; M’lle Etta left the show dangerously ill. Thursday, lovely weather; closed doors; Annie Carrol taken sick. Friday and Saturday, rain but business not affected in the least. Wm. Beecher found a pocket-book containing $1400, in the store where reserved tickets were sold. The owner claiming it, he returned it; the lady generously rewarded him with “I thank you.”
Monday, April 29th, one week, Philadelphia, Pa., 95 miles. Hotels: Central Avenue, Columbia, Great Western, Commercial.
Arrived 12 o’clock Sunday morning; lovely weather. Put up extra five pole canvas, three rings and stage. First appearance of the fifteen Nubians from Central Africa. In the afternoon, during the Egyptian ladder act, the ground gave way throwing all to the ground, Jim Donovan, Tommy Watson and Natalio Lowande were hurt but not serious. Miss Venoa rejoined show after a week’s absence. Wednesday, during the Roman standing race, Jack Hunterson was thrown from his horses dislocating his left shoulder, by the aid of Frank Elton, he himself put it in place again and was ready for work. Thursday and Friday, very cold. Saturday, rain during night show.
The following card appeared in the New York Clipper of May 26.
Receipts in Philadelphia:
| Monday, April 30 | $ 8,416.75 |
| Tuesday, May 1 | $12,006.15 |
| Wednesday, May 2 | $16,382.15 |
| Thursday, May 3 | $17,187.25 |
| Friday, May 4 | $16,084.80 |
| Saturday, May 5 | $10,053.10 |
| Total | $80,130.20 |
Monday & Tuesday, May 7 & 8, Baltimore, Md., 98 miles. Hotels: Howard and Peppers.
Arrived Sunday 10 a.m. Flat carrying tableau broke down Monday, lovely weather; closed doors. First appearance of the tribe of Australian Aborigines. Tommy Watson left back sick.
Wednes. & Thurs., May 9 & 10, Washington, D. C., 43 miles. Hotels: United States, American, Thayson.
Two very warm days. Miss Stickney and Miss Venoa both fell in hurdle race, no injuries. Two Ellioot babies left in the hotel for a few days in care of nurse, illness the cause.
Friday, May 11, Martinsburg, W. Va., 74 miles. Hotels: Continental, St. Clair. Rain early. Mr. Hutchinson goes to Washington.
Saturday, May 12th, Cumberland, Md., 78 miles. Hotels: St. James, St. Nichols. Terrible lot, soft and full of stones. Town no good. Mrs. Watson returned to the show.
Monday, May 14th, Wheeling, W. Va., 201 miles. Hotels: McClure, St. James, St. Charles.
Arrived 7 p.m. Sunday. The first train, on entering the town, ran over a boy killing him instantly; sad accident. Mr. Hutchinson arrived from Washington. Early parade. Heavy rain during evening performance; the storm was so fearful could only give five acts, and then ordered the tents cleared; this was no sooner done than a violent gale struck the canvas ripping it in several places, also breaking a center pole and several quarter poles. Did not leave town until daylight.
Tuesday, May 15th, Zanesville, O., 83 miles. Hotels: Clarendon, American. Rain; no parade; reached twon 11 a.m. Put up old canvas and three poles. Bill Smith left for Cincinnati, very ill.
Wednesday, May 16th, Newark, O., 26 miles. Hotels: Lanning and American. Lovely weather.
Thursday, May 17th, Columbus, O., 33 miles. Hotels: American, United States. Clear and warm. Put in three rings and a stage.
Friday, May 18th, Springfield, O., 74 miles. Hotels: LaGondo, St. James. Heavy rain in forenoon; lot in terrible condition; wet weather parade.
Saturday, May 19th, Dayton, O., 24 miles. Hotels: Phillips, Dickel. Rain during night show. Jack Sutton taken ill.
Mon., Tues., Wed., May 21, 22, 23, 56 miles. Hotels: Crawford, Geneva, Queen City.
Arrived Sunday, 10 a.m.; rain all day. Monday rain all day; no parade; lot deluged with water, so it was found impossible to give a performance; at five in the afternoon snow fell. Tuesday rain all day; lot in worse condition, so it was decided to tear down and leave the town. The following card appeared in all the papers:
Barnum Show Postponed. – The rain and snow storm has made the grounds so muddy, wet and uncomfortable that it would imperil the health of visitors, and the management decline to permit any such calamity to occur. Later on in the season, in July or August, on its return east, the United Barnum and London Shows will return and perform one week, and the exact dates will be announced later on. There may be managements which would greedily take the peoples’ money under similar disadvantages, but Barnum, Bailey & Hutchinson alone can not afford to give half a performance. They never do things half way. They, better than any other, can afford to meet the loss of these three days, which is $30,000, than to, perhaps, unconsciously cause much sickness, pain and death, by the exposure of ladies, aged people and little children to the pitiless cold and damp weather. We regret the disappointment, especially to the little ones, but we shall positively exhibit here in July or August, when all who desire will have an opportunity re-offered to behold the glories of the Barnum triumph.
Thursday, May 24th, Hamilton, O., 25 miles. Hotels: Straub, Central.
Arrived at 5 a.m. Not being the day advertised to show, canvas was put up and a general cleaning up of the Cincinnati mud commenced; lovely weather and a general holiday was taken by the company. The Guilforts and French enjoyed their fishing, whilst the rest of the boys attended the grand ball match by the two circus nines, the Dubs and the Scrubs. The following is the score:
| Dubs | Run | Scrubs | Run |
| Neill, c | 4 | A. Elton, c | 6 |
| F. Elton, p | 6 | Wilton, p | 6 |
| Morgan, s.s. | 7 | Roemer, s.s. | 4 |
| Crossley, 1st b | 5 | LaRue, 1st b | 3 |
| Elton, 2nd b | 4 | Clancy, 2nd b | 3 |
| Romelli, 3rd b | 7 | L. Snow, 3rd b | 4 |
| Fairchild, l.f. | 5 | Morton, l.f. | 1 |
| Chase, c.f. | 3 | Fitzgerald, c.f. | 4 |
| Sedro, r.f. | 2 | Ronaldo, r.f. | 5 |
| Total | 43 | Total | 36 |
Friday, May 25th, Richmond, Ind., 45 miles. Hotels: Huntington, Grand, Bryson. In the afternoon a series of races were run by the performers. Programme:
First Race, Referee, John Crossly. Starter, Wm. Elder. Sedro against LaRue, 100 yards. LaRue won easily.
Second Race, Geo. Bliss against Joe Wilton, 100 yards; latter 5 yards, Wilton won with such ease that Bliss, on reaching the 80th yard, exclaimed in the vernacular of the dressing room, he can beat me even, cully.
Third Race, Al. Elton, referee; Wm. Elder, starter. Geo. Bliss against Sam. Roemer, 100 yards. Declared a draw.
Challenge Wrestling Match ended the sports. John Crossly against Charles Bernard. Catch as can, one fall. Crossly won with a hip fall.
Saturday,May 26th, Indianapolis, Ind., 68 miles. Hotels: Occidental, St. Charles. Arrived during a fine rain storm that lasted until afternoon show. Visit from Henry Barnum and Doc. Thayer.
Monday, May 28th, one week, St. Louis, Mo., 261 miles. Hotels: St. James, Barnum.
Arrived Sunday night 10 o’clock. Rain during afternoon show P. T. Barnum made his first speech since leaving New York. Jack Sutton returned. Tuesday, Mr. Bailey leaves for Chicago; Jim Donovan goes in the obstacle race and wins second prize. Wednesday, rain in the morning. Thursday, death of the Indian baby. Friday, received news of the death of Mille. Etta.
Monday, June 4th, ten days, Chicago, Ill., 286 miles. Hotels: Briggs, Commercial, Davis.
Divided the train in four sections and made the fastest time for the distance on record with this show. Time of first train 15 hours. Put in 3 rings and stage, menagerie all floored making the most beautiful pavilion ever erected for a circus.
Barnum addressed the show in the afternoon. Among the many showmen visitors were Tony Pastor, Mose Crane, E. G. Colvin, and the advance including Andy Haight, W. W. Durand, J. E. Warner, Chas. Stow and J. R. Davis. Tuesday morning about 4 o’clock the watchmen around the canvas discovered that the big tent had taken fire from the spark of an engine. The alarm was given and the fire department and most of the employees promptly rushed to the rescue. It was impossible to save the big top, but all efforts wer made and luckily with success to save dressing room and menagerie. After the fire was extinguished everybody was put to work to clear the debris and put up the old canvas of the year before. Only the afternoon show was lots and everything went on as though nothing had occurred.
On Wednesday afternoon during the grand entree the small elephants attached to one of the chariots took fright and rushed into the ring smashing the wagon into pieces and frightening the crowds of men, women and children. For a few moments it looked as though a terrible panic would ensue as many commenced to scream and rush head long out of the canvas; but the cool and prompt conduct of the employees soon quited the audience and everything went on as before.
The following card from the management is worthy of a space; Chicago’s glorious record amidst fire, flood and panic. $119,172.30 in ten days. Just think of it. Notwithstanding the burning of our immense circus canvas and rain one half the time, our receipts in Chicago were as follows:
| Monday, June 4 | $ 9,325.50 |
| Tuesday, June 5 (one performance) | $ 6,545.50 |
| Wednesday, June 6 | $14,021.95 |
| Thursday, June 7 | $15,302.40 |
| Friday, June 8 | $13,870.65 |
| Saturday, June 9 | $14,986.25 |
| Monday, June 11 | $13,264.40 |
| Tuesday, June 12 | $10,748.90 |
| Wednesday, June 13 | $13,882.05 |
| Thursday, June 14 | $ 7,225.00 |
Friday, June 15th, La Porte, Ind., 59 miles. Hotels: Tea Garden, Myers. Clear and warm. Birth of baby camel.
Saturday, June 16th, South Bend, Ind., 27 miles. Hotels: Olliver, Grand Central. Clear and warm. John Crossly entered in the wheelbarrow race and won easily. Mrs. Watson sprained her ankle and was laid up several days.
Monday, June 18th, Three Rivers, Mich., 46 miles. Hotels: Three Rivers, Central, National. Arrived Sunday 6 a.m. Showers in the evening. Stoner and Geo. Arstingstall left back sick.
Tuesday, June 19th, Cold Water, Mich., 48 miles. Hotels: Southern Michigan, Boister.
Clear and warm; during the afternoon concert a violent wind struck the canvas splitting it in several places; Charlie McLean quickly tripped the quarter poles, and after Mr. Hyatt ordered tents cleared, the top was lowered for safety.
Wednesday, June 20th, Adrian, Mich., 55 miles. Hotels: Lawrence, Gibson. Showed on fair grounds. Lovely weather.
Thursday, June 21st, Jackson, Mich., 46 miles. Hotels: Hurd, Commercial. Lovely day. Fair grounds.
Friday, June 22d, Battle Creek, Mich., 45 miles. Hotels: Williams, Grand Central. Warm and clear. Bad grounds.
Saturday, June 23d, Kalamazoo, Mich., 23 miles. Hotels: Kalamazoo, City. Clear and warm.
Monday, June 25th, Grand Rapids, Mich., 58 miles. Hotels: Rathbun, Bernard. Arrived Sunday, 6 a.m. The company spent the day boating and fishing on the lovely lake. Early parade; morning show. Rain in afternoon.
Tuesday, June 26th, Big Rapids, Mich., 56 miles. Hotels: Northern, Brackett. Rain all day; arrived very late; no parade. Gave one show at 4:30 p.m., and left for next town.
Wednesday, June 27th, Muskegon, Mich., 55 miles. Hotels: Occidental, American. Rain; wet weather parade.
Thursday, June 28th, Ionia, Mich., 76 miles.
First stand lost. Owing to heavy rains, did not reach town until 11 a.m. Weather so bad, stopped to feed people and stock, and left for next town. McMahon got into a little trouble with the landlord, who secured a warrant, but the officers could not find him in the cars.
Friday, June 29th, Lansing, Mich., 71 miles. Hotels: Hudson, Commercial.
Arrived early. Rain. Roads in very poor condition. Pole wagon driven by Al. Lyttle broke through a bridge and narrowly escaped going through. On arrival at the lot the wagons sunk to their hubs, so it was found necessary to change. The old state house ground was the only one, but being limited, only put up 5 pole menagerie and round top for the circus, no Hippodrome. Arnold Smith gets arrested for forcibly compelling a citizen to sit down but on hearing honorably discharged with cost to complainant.
Saturday, June 30th, Ann Arbor, Mich., 63 miles. Hotels: Cook, St. James. Clear and very warm. Attack on the Dude by a policeman.
Monday, July 2d, Detroit, Mich., 38 miles. Hotels: Cass, Standish. Arrived Sunday, 6 a.m. Put up the new canvas. Early parade. 3 shows. Very hot weather. Peasly and wife and Stoner and wife leave. Miss Annie Morgan joined the concert.
Tuesday, July 3d, Pontiac, Mich., 26 miles. Hotels: Waverly, Hodges.
During the night show a frightful wind and rain storm arose. Mr. Hutchinson notified the audience of the danger and that he could not be responsible if they chose to remain under the canvas. No sooner had he said this than the poles commenced to fly and the whistle blew, lights were lowered, people driven out, top let down, show packed. Only 5 acts had been given.
Wednesday, July 4th, Flint, Mich., 38 miles. Hotel: Bryant. 106th Anniversary of American Independence. Return of Mr. Bailey and Bill Newman. The rain in the afternoon so softened the lot that no performance was given at night. The menagerie was opened for 25 cents. Phil. Kirby’s troupe of Japanese performers joined the show.
Thursday, July 5th, Bay City, Mich., 52 miles. Hotel: Campbell. Owing to the many heavy rains wagons could not reach the lot. They had to be unloaded and everything carried to the grounds. No top was put up; side walls both in the menagerie and circus. Both performances given with rain in the afternoon. Late in getting away.
Friday, July 6th, East Saginaw, Mich., 18 miles. Hotels: Everett, Marshal. Clear and very warm.
Saturday, July 7th, Port Huron, Mich., 100 miles. Hotel: Port Huron House. Heavy rain after parade. Buislay, Weiland, Madame Marths, McMahon, Decker and Milo leave the show. Miss Morgan is robbed of her watch and money at the hotel.
Monday, July 9th, Stratford, Canada, 81 miles. Hotels: Windsor, Royal, Mansion, American. Arrived Sunday early. First appearance of Kirby’s Japanese troupe. Also Pat Reilly as the Irish clown.
Tuesday, July 10th, Guelph, Ont., 40 miles. Hotels: Royal, Queen, City. Lovely weather.
Wednesday, July 11, Toronto, Ont., 48 miles. Hotels: American, Shakespeare. Early parade. No morning performance.
Thursday, July 12, Oshawa, Ont., 34 miles. Hotels: Commercial, Central, Queens. Fine day. One of the poorest stands in Canada.
Friday, July 13th, Port Hope, Ont., 29 miles. Hotels: St. Lawrence Hall, Queens, Bay View. Bad, soft lot; good weather.
Saturday, July 14th, Belleville, Ont., 50 miles. Hotel: Dafoe House. Clear weather.
Monday, Tuesday, July 16, 17, Montreal, Canada, 220 miles. Hotels: Canada, American, City.
Arrive Sunday, 6 p.m. Heavy shower during afternoon show first day. Visit from P. T. Barnum and the usual speech. Received intelligence of the death of Gen. Tom Thumb. David Hamilton (Scotty) stabbed by one of a gang of roughs, luckily not serious.
Wednesday, July 18th, Cornwall, Ont., 67 miles. Hotels: American, Ontario, Depot. As a long run had to be made, one performance was given in the afternoon, none at night.
Thursday, July 19th, Ottawa, Ont., 133 miles. Hotels: Grand Union, Albion, Dominion. Light showers in the morning.
Friday, July 20th, Brockville, Ont., 75 miles. Hotels: Revere, St. Lawrence Hall, Central. Arrived 10:30 a.m. Lot was so rocky could not drive stakes. So the big top was not put up. Both shows given in the open air with side canvas.
Saturday, July 21st, Kingston, Ont., 47 miles. Hotel: City Hotel.
Showed on Fair grounds. Car No. 52 when a few miles from town broke away from on of the trucks smashing things in general and frightening the Band Drum Corps and a few performers. The occupants had to walk into town as an appetizer for breakfast.
Monday, July 23d, Hamilton, Ont., 200 miles. Hotels: St. Nicholas, American. Arrived Sunday, 8 p.m. Departed this life after a short but painful illness — Prince, the elephant. His remains were presented to a veterinary surgeon of the town.
Tuesday, July 24th, Brantford, Ont., 27 miles. Hotels: Kerby, American, Commercial. Shower in the morning; wet weather parade.
Wednesday, July 25th, Woodstock, Ont., 36 miles. Hotels: O’Neil, Commercial, Caister. Fine weather. Great bull-frogging; champion bull-frog captured by Harry Long and Bob Guilford, weight 1 ½ lbs. (Veritas).
Thursday, July 26th, St. Thomas, Ont., 44 miles. Hotels: Grand Central, Queen, American. Whilst leaping during the afternoon, Joe Wilton fell splitting his knee cap; left for his home.
Friday, July 27th, London, Ont., 15 miles. Hotels: Griggs, Western. Shower in the morning. While unloading the rear car of a train it backed on to the steam organs upsetting it and causing considerable damage.
Saturday, July 28th, Chatham, Ont., 64 miles. Hotels: Garner, Rankin, Grand Central. Warm and clear. George Melville leaves.
Monday, July 30th, Toledo, O., 106 miles. Hotels: Merchants, Union, La Grange, Hanner. Arrived at 10 o’clock Sunday morning. 3 shows. First exhibition of the Indian Dwarf Elephant. Mr. and Mrs. Bailey and Mrs. White take a trip to New York. Ed. Kohl leaves the show.
Tuesday, July 31st, Defiance, O., 51 miles. Hotels: Crosby, Lafayette. Clear and warm.
Wednesday, August 1st, Tiffin, O., 64 miles. Hotels: Pratt, Lang. Rain at night. A purse of over $200 was raised and sent to Joe Wilton.
Thursday, August 2d, Mansfield, O., 50 miles. Hotels: Sherman, Clifton. Showers at night. Mrs. Hutchinson, nurse and baby, leave the show for a summer retreat.
Friday, August 3d, Lancaster, O., 111 miles. Hotel: Talmadge. Clear and warm.
Saturday, Aug. 4, Washington, C. H., O., 48 miles. Hotels: Gardner, Arlington, Foster. Col. Goshen leaves the show.
Monday, Aug. 6th, Chillicotte, O., 47 miles. Hotels: Emmitt, Commercial, St. James. Arrived Sunday early. Mrs. White returns from New York.
Tuesday, Aug. 7th, Ironton, O., 79 miles. Hotels: Sheridan, Ironton. Very dusty lot.
Wednesday, August 8th, Portsmouth, O., 27 miles. Hotel: Briggs. Clear and warm.
Thursday, August 9th, Gallipolis, O., 97 miles. Hotels: Park, Central, Dufer. Bill Ducrow while performing on his swinging rope, was violently thrown to the ground and received a fracture of his ankle.
Friday, August 10th, Parkersburg, W. Va., 99 miles. Hotels: Hill’s Central, Central. Clear and warm. Cage of leopards thrown from the flat while nearing the town. Damage slight.
Saturday, Aug. 11th, Marietta, O., 12 miles. Hotel: City.
After the performance of the elephants in the evening, S. S. Smith called Prof. Geo. Arstingstall upon the stage and then addressed the audience with: “I have the pleasure of calling your attention to a performance not in our programme but one which in our profession often occurs.” Judge S. S. Knowles then ascended the stage and after a few very appropriate remarks presented Mr. Arstingstall a beautiful gold headed cane in the name of the friends of his boyhood. Arstingstall gracefully acknowledged the high compliment paid him and the happiness he felt in again revisiting the scenes of his youth and greeting the familiar faces of his happier days.
Monday, August 13 & 14, Pittsburgh, Pa., 190 miles. Hotel: St. Clair.
Arrived Sunday, 11 p.m., after the most tedious run of the season. Rain during parade. McIntire and Heath and Hay leave the show, also the Girard brothers. S. S. Smith goes to New York for a few days. Jennie Leverns strikes a quarter pole receiving two black eyes that prevented her riding several days.
Wednesday, August 15th, Youngstown, O., 65 miles. Hotel: Tod House. Clear and warm.
Thursday, August 16th, Steubenville, O., 102 miles. Hotels: United States, St. Nicholas, Imperial. Arrived late. Flat car containing the Lion, tiger and rhinoceros cages jumped the track throwing one of the cages into the ditch.
Friday, August 17th, Canton, O., 83 miles. Hotels: St. Cloud, Ogden. Clear, very warm.
Saturday, August 18th, Akron, O., 24 miles. Hotels: Windsor, New Sherman, Imperial. Fred Mandoza plays the dude for the first time.
Monday, August 20th, Cleveland, O., 35 miles. Hotels: American, Striebinger.
Arrived Sunday, 6 a.m. Early parade and morning show. Rain. In the afternoon. Walter Ries and Billy Hunter both fell in the jockey race. Billy breaking his arm. Left in the hospital by the management to receive medical aid. S. S. Smith arrived from New York.
Tuesday, August 21st, Norwalk, O., 55 miles. Hotels: St. Charles, Baldwin.
Wednesday, August 22d, Fremont, O., 27 miles. Hotel: Bell House. During night show a terrible rain and thunder storm arose. Tops were lowered and guyed down and all passed off in safety.
Thursday, August 23d, Lima, O., 61 miles. Hotels: Burnett, International, Dague. Mr. Hyatt leaves to visit his home.
Friday, August 24th, Piqua, O., 43 miles. Hotels: Bassett, City, German.
Saturday, August 25th, Muncie, Ind., 78 miles. Hotels: Haines, Maddy.
Monday, August 27, 28, 29 and 30, Cincinnati, O., 134 miles. Hotels: Crawford, Geneva, Hummel.
Arrived Sunday, 2 p.m. Clear. Harry Parker, Razor Back, while preparing to go in parade was crushed against a tableau by the elephant Queen. He was carried to the hospital and died in a few hours. Buried by the management. Col. Goshen returned to the show. Nellie Venoa is robbed of her diamond ear rings and two rings at the hotel. Return of Mr. Hyatt. Mr. Hutchinson leaves for New York. Col. Goshen re-joins show. Mrs. White, wardrobe lady, is presented by the ladies of the company with some very elegant gifts as tokens of esteem.
Saturday, Sept. 1st, Lexington, Ky., 100 miles. Hotels: St. Nicholas, Florentine. Clear weather. Arrived 10 a.m.
Monday & Tuesday, Sept. 3 & 4, Louisville, Ky., 94 miles. Hotels: St. Cloud, Winfrey. Arrived Sunday 3 p.m. Notwithstanding the Great Southern Exposition, the show could not accommodate the crowds.
Wednesday, Sept. 5th, Columbus, Ind., 70 miles. Hotels: St. Dennis, Western. Commenced evening show at 7 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 6th, Lafayette, Ind., 110 miles. Hotel: St. Nicholas. Clear. County Fair suffered defeat by the big show.
Friday, Sept. 7th, Logansport, Ind., 37 miles. Hotel: Murdock. Rain. Wet weather parade.
Saturday, Sept. 8th, Fort Wayne, Ind., 72 miles. Hotels: Robinson, Myers. Clear but very cold. Rush for overcoats. Maggie Elliott leaves the company.
Monday, Sept. 10th, Evansville, Ind., 319 miles. Hotel: Sherwood. Arrived Monday morning after the longest and most tedious run of the season. Journal of the car bearing the Calliope, Bell Wagon and Organ broke so they had to be left back.
Tuesday, Sept. 11th, Vincennes, Ind., 52 miles.
Wednesday, Sept. 12th, Terre Haute, Ind., 57 miles. The junior member of the Triumvirate returns to the Show. Joe Kenabel, clown, joins the company.
Thursday, Sept. 13th, Danville, Ill., 55 miles.
Friday, Sept. 14th, Decatur, Ill., 74 miles.
Saturday, September 15th, Jacksonville, Ill., 72 miles.
Monday, September 17th, Springfield, Ill., 34 miles.
Tuesday, September 18th, Bloomington, Ill., 68 miles. Harry Thomas and Chas. LaRue run a 100 yard race for $25, LaRue having 8 yards start. Thomas won by 3 yards.
Wednesday, September 19th, Peoria, Ill., 46 miles.
Thursday, September 20th, Ottawa, Ill., 77 miles.
Friday, September 21st, Joliet, Ill., 44 miles.
Saturday, September 22d, Aurora, Ill., 88 miles.
Monday, September 24th, Rockford, Ill., 110 miles.
Tuesday, September 25th, Janesville, Wis., 34 miles.
Wednesday, September 26th, Madison, Wis., 40 miles.
Thursday, September 27th, Watertown, Wis., 37 miles.
Friday, September 28th, Milwaukee, Wis., 45 miles. Bill Smith presented by his men with a beautiful taken of esteem.
Saturday, September 29th, Fond du Lac, Wis., 66 miles.
Monday, October 1st, Oshkosh, Wis., 18 miles.
Tuesday, October 2d, Stevens Point, Wis., 74 miles.
Wednesday, October 3d, Eau Claire, Wis., 119 miles.
Thursday, October 4th, Stillwater, Min., 76 miles.
Friday, October 5th, St. Paul, Min., 20 miles.
Saturday, October 6th, Minneapolis, Min., 10 miles.
Monday, October 8th, Dubuque, Iowa, 309 miles.
Tuesday, October 9th, Waterloo, Iowa, 93 miles.
Wednesday, October 10th, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, 64 miles.
Thursday, October 11th, Rock Island, Ill., 78 miles.
Friday, October 12th, Galesburg, Ill., 78 miles.
Saturday, October 13th, Burlington, Iowa, 43 miles.
Monday, October 15th, Des Moines, Iowa, 162 miles.
Tuesday, Oct. 16th, Ottumwa, Iowa, 87 miles.
Wednesday, October 17th, Keokuk, Iowa, 75 miles.
Thursday, October 18th, Quincy, Ill., 40 miles.
Friday, October 19th, Louisiana, Mo., 45 miles.
Saturday, October 20th, Hannibal, Mo., 25 miles. Termination of the most successful season ever known in the show business.
Winter Quarters, Bridgeport, Conn. 1,254 miles.
Miles Traveled During Season. From New York to Bridgeport, 9,932 miles.
Length of season, 180 working days.
Working days without rain to Sept. 15th, 81 days. Working days with rain, 45 days.
Performances lost, 12.
Number of employees in Route Book, 650.
Number of rail road cars, 59. Sleepers, 9. Advertisers, 5.
Baggage and Tableau Wagons, 61. Animal cages, 24.
Horses, 249. Ponies, 22. Elephants, 29. Camels, 25.
Canvas: Big Hippodrome, center poles 4; quarter poles, 56; 377x216 feet. Menagerie, center poles, 5; quarter poles, 28; 288x136 feet. Museum, center poles, 3; quarter poles, 22; 250x136 feet.
Dressing Room, Water Proof. Center poles, 2; quarter poles, 10, 158x120.
Side Show: Center poles, 2; quarter poles, 10, 158x120.
Grand Entrance, 40x30 feet. Stables, tents, 7; 100x40 feet. Blacksmith’s shop, 30x30 feet. Cork tents, 2; 80x40 and 40x30 feet. Kitchen, 30x20. Number of stakes and toe pins driven down and taken up every day, 1300.
Note. Grateful acknowledgment for valuable aid in compiling this little volume is hereby tendered Frank Hyatt, Byron Rose, Charles McLean, James Fuqua, and the gentlemen comprising other heads of departments. Copies of this book can be had, post paid, by enclosing 50 cents to A. B. Stewart, No. 136 George St., Providence, R. I.
Copyright © 2005-2010
Circus Historical Society, Inc.
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Last modified March 2010.