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Circus Historical Society Circus History Message & Discussion BoardSend a Message Current MessagesThis board is provided by the Circus Historical Society, Inc. for posting questions or conducting discussions regarding circus history. Please do not submit attachments or questions regarding the value of circus memorabilia. When you click on Send or Respond to a Message above, your browser will attempt to send your question or comment using its email program. If you prefer to use a different email program to send your message, please address your question to circushistory@gmail.com with Circus History Message in the subject line. Circus History Message must be in the subject line of your email. You must include at least your given name. Your city and state would be appreciated. Your response should include the topic of the message you are replying to in the text of your email, as well as your name. Please read the Guidelines and Disclaimer before emailing your message or response. Your message or response will be posted within one week, unless otherwise indicated above. Read Guidelines and Disclaimer regarding genealogy questions.
Message Archive: Messages 3351 - 34003400. Elephants, Sun Bros. 1892-1918, 07 Jul 2010 - Would anyone have any information concerning the elephants that were with the Sun Bros. Show from the years 1892 to 1918? Particularly any elephants that may have died while with the show, and were,when and how they may have died. Thank you, K.C. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Sun Bros. Circus (George, Gus, & Peter Sun - owners) 1892 to 1918
Alice, Asian Female, 1903 to 1918, Went to Johnny J. Jones Carnival
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3399. Franzen Bros., Michael Kohlrieser, 06 Jul 2010 - I'm trying to establish a date for a piece of Franzen Bros. material that lists Michael D. Kohlrieser of Wapakoneta, OH as "director of tours." Anyone have an idea what year or years that may have been? Thank you, Paul Holley. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3398. Adeline Remillard, fat lady, 06 Jul 2010 - I am looking for information regarding a relative who was a Circus Fat Lady probably back in the 30's. Her name was Adeline Remillard and she weighed over 500 pounds. My father, who immigrated from Lorette, Manitoba to Chicago, had her picture. I have it now. Do not know which circus she belonged to but am suspecting it was probably nearby Chicago. My e-mail address is annetterem@att.net. Thank you. Annette. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3397. Leopold Bosco Morton, 06 Jul 2010 - Leopold Bosco Morton, b 1864, Father William, Mother Mary. These were travelling show people, originally from Lancashire, England. Does any one have any info on them, magicians I believe. Leopold died in 1901. Pamela. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3396. Booking agency, acts, 06 Jul 2010 - I am writing a book and series of articles on sheepdog use and sheepdog trials in North America. Many early sheepdog trials were actually professional exhibitions that toured state fair circuits and with wild west shows. For example, a man named Arthur Allen toured for many years with Roy Rogers. The first person whose promotional materials I am looking for at the moment is Sam Stoddart, sometimes misprinted as Stoddard, who performed starting around 1920 at the larger state fairs, first with imported Tweed and Ross, then later in 1924 with International Champion Spot. I saw what looks like a flyer or cover for a pamphlet in the 6/11/1926 "Gettysburg Times" and this started me wondering if there are any likely archives for large booking agencies for the period 1900 to 1930. There were quite a few others; I'm starting with Stoddart. I have a hazy recollection of reading about a big agency or maybe a yearly meeting in Illinois that handled a lot of fair acts, which, of course, have considerable overlap with circus performers. Can anyone can help me out with agent or agency or organization names or a likely archive? Penny Tose. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 3395. Frank & Faye Walker, 04 Jul 2010 - Hello my name is Johnny David Best. I was born in Grants Pass Oregon at Josephine county hospital in 1965. My mothers name is Billie J Salzmann and she also was born in Grants Pass Ore at Josephine county hospital in 1932. My Mothers parents she has been told where traveling with a circus when she was conceived. Already with two kids and struggling to make ends meet they just simply could not afford to raise another child. So when the circus came threw Grants Pass in 1932 they put a ad in the Grants Pass courier news paper that they would like to adopt out their child. My Mother was adopted one hour after she was born to wonderful parents that gave her all the love in the world. My mom is 78 years old now and she knows her real parents are long gone but she has been wanting her whole life to know where she comes from and her family tree. Their names my mom was told was Frank and Faye Walker Please Please Please can you help me. My phone number is 360-693-0020 or email me at johnnydbest@gmail.com. Thank you and God bless, Johnny Best. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
http://libweb.uoregon.edu/diglib/odnp/ and have your mother's birth date, you ought to be able to determine which shows were in the area at the time of her arrival. I would look for advertisements for both circuses and traveling carnivals [perhaps in association with a fair], as well as other forms of outdoor entertainment [repertoire theater troupes, for example]. Many different things have been termed a circus, when they are not. Currently you can search the Portland Oregonian on-line: http://libweb.uoregon.edu/govdocs/indexing/index.html There were no hits for "circus" in 1932, but you might try searching for other terms. Another possibility is to access the microfilmed copies of the weekly-issued "Billboard" magazine. It published routes for just about all forms of outdoor shows. That will also enable you to discern what show employed the Walkers. You might also be able to learn a bit more about the show, what the Walkers did, etc., by searching back and forth in earlier and later issues, once the show name is established. Speak to your local librarian about securing the microfilm copies via interlibrary loan. I wish you success in your searching. Fred Dahlinger
3394. Trapeze artistry, Norway, 03 Jul 2010 - In researching my family history I have come across some information that I would like to try and validate. This is not a specific genealogy question but rather a general question about trapeze artistry in Norway in the late 1800's. I have found out that my grandfather's brother was a trapeze artist and a high wire performer in Kristiania (now Oslo) Norway in the 1890's. My grandfather trained with him in his teens before coming to this country. Part of the family lore is that my grandfather's brother trained, along with others, trapeze artists for circuses in this country. Is there anywhere I can look to find out if this was true? (not specifically about him but that this type of training did go on in Norway at this time). Also, are there any reference materials, books that would talk about the circus life in Norway in the late 1800's? Thank you for the opportunity to ask this question. June. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3393. Les Rainers, 30 Jun 2010 - I am looking for an old circus group called "Les Rainers." I live in Denmark and can`t find any information on this group, other than they have appeared here in Denmark in year 1972. I know that they subsequently appeared in the U.S. for several years after the visit to Denmark (1974 - ...) in a "stationary" circus (not traveling). The group performed with a bar show and consisted of three members. I'm looking for pictures and possible movie clips. I would be thrilled if you could help me further with my investigation. Best regards, Brian Jørgensen. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3392. Psychic named Athena, 29 Jun 2010 - I'm looking for information about the life of a showwoman and psychic called ATHENA. Her surname was said to be something like Theophilos or Theophilis. Athena was born around 1909 and died shortly before the end of 1999. She or her family were said to be from Florina in Macedonia, at that time to Turkey, today in Greece. They possibly were of Gypsy origin. In the 1930s she traveled through small towns in and around West Virginia. She gave psychic readings and foretold the truth with a crystal ball. In the early 1940's she met a psychic entertainer named Nicholas, who became her partner for many years. Thank you for any clue or bit of information! Lars Menk in Berlin, Germany. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3391. Banner painters, 28 Jun 2010 - In relation to a geneology search, I am trying to find info on 'banner painters' of around the early 1900's. He may also have done free-lance work for RJR Tobacco Co. Do you know of any places I might search? Thanks so much for ANY help - even the smallest of leads. Amanda, arartworks@yahoo.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3390. Carson & Barnes, 28 Jun 2010 - Hello. I took some photos of John Carroll and others during a circus performance around 1978. I am trying to determine the exact location. That's right, I don't remember precisely where and when I took them. I think I took them in Washington DC or Georgetown, and I need to see if there are any records of "Carson and Barnes" performing there around summer time. However, it could have been in 1979. I'm not sure. Is anyone in your organization a keeper of records that goes back that far? Thanks, Mark Estabrook. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3389. Goodman Wonder Show, 24 Jun 2010 - Searching for 1940 routing of Goodman Wonder Show in state of Iowa. Jim R. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3388. Grimaldi, Daddy Long Legs, 20 Jun 2010 - Hi, We are hanging on a thread of information passed down by gossip of family members. My Great Grandmother presumably fell pregnant to a man in the Circus which was visiting in 1920 Victoria Park, Auckland, Anniversary Weekend. His last name was supposedly "grimaldi" or "Daddy Long Legs" his circus name. If anyone knows of this person this would be greatly appreciated to end a skeleton in closet story within our family. Thanks and look forward to any responses. Vicki. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 3387. Otho Twigg, 18 Jun 2010 - I am looking for any further information on a Mr Otho Twigg. Otho held various positions (mainly equestrienne) within many circus’s (Sanger’s, Henglers, Ohmy’s, Forepaughs, Lockharts, Barnum &Baileys) he eventually became the Ringmaster at the London Hippodrome when it opened in 1900, in 1910 he became the ringmaster at the New York Hippodrome. Otho married a Margaret Harriet Davies in Cardiff in 1886. Margaret was an Equestrienne bareback rider, using the stage names of ‘Maggie Sivado’ (Davis spelt backwards), Marguerite Doris and Maggie Twigg. Otho and Margaret had 2 daughters that I am aware of, but sadly both died in infancy. Margaret’s younger sister Pauline also worked in the circus as a Equestrienne too and married a John McCambridge (My family's connection) – Pauline’s stage name also varied over the years but these are two that I know off – ‘Polly Sivado’ (once again Davis spelt backwards) and ‘Madame Olva’. John and Pauline McCambridge had 4 children that I know off – John b 1888, Margaret b 1889, Otho b1897 and Pauline b 1904. I believe the two sisters and their respective families worked with each other throughout their lives all over Europe and The USA. I have found several references to all of these people in ‘THE STAGE ARCHIVES’ and ‘THE ERA ARCHIVES’ – but would truly love to find a picture of any of them! Otho seemed to have a very prominent role and was great friends with Marceline Orbes, surely there must be a photograph somewhere!! Any help would be truly amazing - I’m based in England but I know they worked a lot in the USA! Lucy Smithers - lucysmithers@yahoo.co.uk. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
There are illustrated Barnum & Bailey route books for the first few years after the show returned to the US in 1903, covering to about 1907. Have you checked these, or do you know exactly when Twigg was with B&B? Programs survive from most of the great New York Hippodrome stage productions. They would be a good place to start. You'll find them in more prominent theater and New York City area collections. There was a long run in a private collection that was broken up more than a decade ago, so Hippodrome ephemera collectors may also be in possession of them. They are typically well illustrated, include the cast, etc. Those same facilities will also hold other photography relating to the Hippodrome. There's also the book "The Mighty Hippodrome" that may be worth checking. Just recently a photograph showing a circus tent interior on the stage of the Hippodrome sold on ebay. It was from one of the well-known photographic image supply houses that has been digitizing their holdings and selling off originals. Have you been in contact with the British circus fans group, checked the Victoria & Albert, also the holdings in the Fairground Archive at Sheffield University? If he was close with Marceline Orbes, you might even examine group photographs that include him; maybe Twigg can be found therein? There were no immediate Google hits for "Ortho Twigg," nor any in a couple newspaper databases; is it possible that he had a stage name? If he was part of an equestrian group act, his name may also have been obscured. Fred Dahlinger
It may be interesting to some persons to know how an affair of this description is managed. The proprietors themselves are most industrious and indefatigable, and they have in their service, as acting manager, a very clever and experienced gentleman named Twigg, late lieutenant in one of Her Majesty's regiments. Mr Twigg engages several persons, whose duty it is to make arrangements in advance for the numerous company and stud. They hire ground suitable for the purpose, and engage bill-posters, who placard the town with large and brilliantly-coloured pictorial representations of the performances, and distribute printed bills, containing the names of the performers, also giving a description of the procession, and the route it will take in parading the town. These are distributed in all the villages within a radius of fifteen miles. jim@stockley.co.za
3386. George B. King, 18 Jun 2010 - I understand my great grandfather, George B. King, had a traveling circus in the US beginning about 1882. He was born in the UK about 1855, and came to this country about 1882 with his daughter, my grandmother, who was about three years old. He had two more children in the US, one daughter born in Missouri and one son. I got this initial information from an aunt, and I am searching for any record of the circus. Thank you for any help you can provide. Jean. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3385. European circus parades, 18 Jun 2010 - Hello, I was looking for information on European circus parades where animals were paraded in cages as part of a circus, or a just in a parade. Specifically, Did these parades originate in one country - Germany? Russia? Or were they all over Europe at the same time? Were they more popular in one country or another? Any information you can give me is greatly appreciated. Many thanks in advance, Melissa Sweet. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3384. TV series, auction, 17 Jun 2010 - We’re producing a series for Discovery about the auction business – following unique items with interesting histories through the auction process with the collectors who are selling them. We are looking for people with circus, sideshow & wild west collections & artifacts they might like to auction for a TV series about the auction business. We’re looking for unique items with fascinating histories. If you have something you’d like to consider auctioning on TV please email us at auctionshow2@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3383. Cornwall, Ontario, Canada, 17 Jun 2010 - Hello, My name is Thom and I live in Cornwall Ontario Canada. I am currently writing segments of history of the Cornwall Police Force. On September 6th, 1892 a police officer patrolling the "Circus" at the exhibition grounds adjacent to the Grand Trunk Railway Station was shot a killed by a drifter. I am searching for any tid bits of history that would identify the circus that set up in Cornwall that day. Are there any Canadian dedicated sites that may help me in this info search. Thank you for your time. Thom Racine, Cornwall Ontario, Canada. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3382. Kimball Sisters, 17 Jun 2010 - Does anyone have any information about the Kimball Sisters, Gail and Eunid or Enid who played long horns for Barnum and Bailey in the 1920's or 1930's? They graduated from our school and we would love to know more about them. Thanks, Patsy Jones, teacher, Alsea High School. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3381. Martha A. Gray, 17 Jun 2010 - I am looking for information on Martha A. Gray, who was a member of the John Robinson Circus in 1922 and I believe she used the name Miss Virginia. My grandfather was married to her on April 16, 1922. I know nothing about her and would love to see a picture of her and find out about her life and what she did in the circus. Thank you, Tom Parker. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3380. RV parking, 16 Jun 2010 - Hello! My name is Fr. Dick Notter a CHS member who will be attending the convention. I plan to come from Peru with my travel trailer and am looking for possible locations to park. I have not been successful in getting Royal Acres in Normal to return phone calls. Does anyone have any suggestions? Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 3379. Nashville, circus exhibit, 13 Jun 2010 - I work with Belmont Mansion, an Italian-villa style mansion in the heart of Nashville. It was built in 1853 — quite an interesting house. Anyway, I am trying to put together an event that will focus on the Victorian-era circus. I am still in the beginning phase. I would love to find a collector who would be interested in hosting a lecture or lending items for an exhibit. I would also like to find performers who specialize in this period. I am particularly interested in the sideshow acts. Any information will be greatly appreciated. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Best, Kate Wilson, Director of Operations, Belmont Mansion, 1900 Belmont Blvd., Nashville, TN 37212. (615) 460-5459 www.belmontmansion.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3378. Felix Morales, 13 Jun 2010 - Hello, I am the Dyer County Historian and have been researching the Circus History of this county. I noticed that you had posted about Felix Morales and thought you might be interested in the following I found on the web: Billboard Oct 23, 1948. King Continues to Chalk Up Good Biz in South. Dyersburg, Tenn., Oct. 16 - The tour of the Southland is proving a winner for King Bros. The show has been getting a good share of full ones and overflows at various points in Tennessee. Here in Dyersburg, which is more or less the hometomw of the the King family, the folks gave with a strong matinee crowd and capasity at night. The King family lived here for many years. In addition, Felix Morales and his family resided on a farm here for several years..." I would like to know more about the history of the Morales family. Best regards, Earl Willoughby, Dyer County Historian. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3377. Mill Bros. Circus, Miss India, 12 Jun 2010 - The Mill Bros. Circus came to Wallingford, CT in late June of 1953, and probably had been here before then. I am interested in obtaining a photo of Miss India, an elephant who died here and was buried here. Actually, any photos of the Mill Bros. Circus would be of interest. Thank you. Barbara Sherburne, Wallingford, CT. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
www.peoplespressnews.com/peoplespress/newspaper/article.cfm?img=page1.gif&issue=207 Thanks to Jerome Jacobson for all of his help with the photos and story. Barb
3376. Hilda Garzon, 12 Jun 2010 - My name is Eustacio Lopez Garzon, and I look to my aunt, "Hilda Garzon," maiden name. She to work in Mexican circus in years 1960-1970. Circus called, Atayde Hermanos or Union Circus. She to have accident working in trapeze, to be fallen of 20 meters height, not be able to work, but she to married know person of circus Ringling Brothers. She may be 76-78 years old, and is possible she live in Houston, Texas or New York, NY. I not see my Aunt Hilda Garzon for many years (40). Please I need aid of person that he knows my aunt. Thanks very much and God blesses. Eustacio Lopez Garzon, Phoenix, Arizona. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3375. Drake Bros. Circus, 11 Jun 2010 - My father is a huge circus fan and for his birthday my sister found what appears to be old "Drake Bros. Circus and Trained Animal Shows" circus tickets at an estate sale. My dad and I have been on the internet trying to research this circus and have not been able to find any information on them. Can you all help us with this? Laura. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3374. Circus, NY, 10 Jun 2010 - After WWII, my uncle, now 86, worked as a roustabout for a circus that traveled in New York. He does not remember the name of the circus and I told him I would try to find out. I have searched the internet without locating any familiar names. I mentioned Damascus Circus out of Rochester, NY or Ziyara Shrine Circus, Utica, NY, but he says they are not the one he worked for. Can you offer some other names for me to help him remember? Thank you, Gordon. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
The answer you seek is in a big haystack. The best way to start is to remove as much of the extraneous hay from the pile as possible, leaving only the prime material for examination. Name - Without the person's name, respondents have nothing to start with. Your uncle's name, as well as nicknames and any aliases are necessary for any reasonable search. Time frame - The data you provided suggests your uncle was born c1924. That would make him 18 years old during early WWII, perhaps meaning he was drafted, or enlisted, and therefore not a roustabout until mid-1945 or later. That seems to concur with your statement of post-war service. That helps to limit the time frame of the search. How long was he on the road? Residency - Where was he born and in which community or cities did he reside? They might provide a clue as to where he could have joined a troupe. Perhaps family members or documents and photos that exist will provide clues as to residency. Once you establish where he lived, you can trace residency through city directories and other documentation. Local newspapers can serve to identify the shows that passed through a community. If you have access to them, via a library or historical society, they can possibly provide an answer, or clues. Social Security - This system started about 1938 and records do survive. Perhaps there's some reference to your uncle's show employment? Show type - Many people mistake a carnival for a circus. If he remembers mechanical thrill rides, as one would experience at an amusement park, that means he was with a carnival, and not a circus. Did the show move every day, or just once per week? If just once per week, it was probably a carnival. If it was a carnival, that's an entirely different line of investigation. Show movements - Did the show move by railroad train, or over the highway, in trucks and trailers? Knowing where he slept each night will be a clue - in a railroad car, in a hotel, in a truck, or on the lot in a tent? This knowledge can limit the searching. Job - You state "roustabout," which most people would identify as unskilled labor generally used to erect tents and perform other duties on an outdoor lot. But, your description specifies two circuses that presented performances in buildings. They might have had some roustabouts for general labor, but it also suggests, perhaps, service as a prop man, someone handling "properties" into and out of the ring for performers. Can your uncle clarify specifically what he did for the show? Billboard - The original "Billboard" magazine served as the news continuum of the outdoor show business from c1900 until 1960. A number of issues are available on-line via Google Books - advanced book search. The search engine misses many entries, but if you know of community names pertinent to your uncle's story, try searching using "Billboard" as the "title" and then the city name and state in "with all of the words." You can also limit the searching to single years. You can try searching for his name, but roustabouts were seldom listed. Billboard published the routes of shows and once you have a candidate for the title you can do further searching for it. There are also other techniques that can be used to eliminate other possibilities. For example, if he might have been with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Shows, their employment records from 1938-1956 do exist and can be consulted. These are in the Circus World Museum library. If you are able to garner further knowledge, post the new knowledge and perhaps readers will be able to assist you in your quest. Fred Dahlinger Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3373. Term, back lot, 10 Jun 2010 - There is a seller on eBay who always refers to his photos as being "backlot" views. Now a second seller has picked it up but uses is as two words: "back lot." I thought back lot was a movie studio expression. I don't think I have ever heard it used referring to the back yard of a circus. Am I just out of the loop here? Thanks - Whitey. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Margaret Mayo, Polly of the Circus, 1910, used "back lot"; Courtney Ryley Cooper, Circus Day, 1931, page 234, also used it. The Mayo book was a trade book; Cooper had direct knowledge of circus vocabulary. Mayo (1882-1951), was an actress, playwright and screen writer, per an on-line biog. Polly had first appeared as a stage play in 1907 and was made into films in 1917 and 1932. It's likely she may have been the vehicle by which the term gained transfer and use in the circus world. Back lot was used in a July 5, 1947 Billboard account, page 104, in an interview with Bev Kelley, and again in the issue of June 24, 1950, page 88, a spotting of John Ringling North there; and so on. When the "New York Clipper" and the "Billboard" before the 1940s become available in digital form, earlier references will likely be found. There are no circus route books on Google [or I've not encountered them], nor programs, couriers and quarter sheets (aka "heralds"), but some standard memoirs like Conklin, Thompson and such are available. That means it'll take a manual search to find "back lot" in circus-issued documents. There are maybe two dozen route books transcribed on the CHS website, under the history button on the home page, and you can quickly go through those with a edit-search. The "Random House Historical Dictionary of American Slang" and Don Wilmeth's 1981 volume, "The Language of American Popular Entertainment: A Glossary of Argot, Slang, and Terminology," might be places to look. The "Oxford English Dictionary" has limited application in many instances. Bottom line, looks like it was used a bit early in the 20th century, and by "Billboard" columnists, like Tom Parkinson, in the late 1940s and 1950s. A crossover from Hollywood is possible, given the writings of Margaret Mayo and the hiring of circus equipment and animals by the movie makers in the 1910s, 1920s and thereafter. Fred Dahlinger
3372. Aeriel the Flying Man, 10 Jun 2010 - There is a circus poster from W.W. Cole's circus of "Aeriel the Flying Man." I'm intrigued by this poster, and would like to know more, like did he really fly and what his real name was? Any help would be great! - Leslie. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Flight has been a goal of man for centuries. Manifestations usually take the form of:
1. balloons [filled with "lighter than air" gases, namely hot air, helium or hydrogen];
Circuses, in reflecting human interest, have presented all of these types before the public. It was a time when Jules Verne novels inspired people to overcome gravitational and other limitations on the human body. The late Victorian era American circus was only too happy to bring such possibilities before the public.
Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 3371. Pan American Shows, 09 Jun 2010 - I am trying to find out more information about the Pan American Shows. I recently was given a photo of my husband's grandmother who was said to traveled with the circus. This photo was in the mid 1940's, however, other information indicates his grandmother was affiliated with the circus for years earlier, i.e. early 20's when my husband's father was born (1921). The back of the photo states "some of the show people". Her name was Anna Belle Caswell Eckhoff. Judy. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Bob Parkinson's circus title list includes the year of 1908 as one for activity, but provides no details. It's possible that it relates to further use by Lemen, again. In 1906, his circus bore the name of Capt. Hale's Fire Fighters, so a title conversion wasn't anything out of the impossible. In the 1940s-1950s there were several railroad car-based animal operations, traveling zoos or menageries, as well as others that moved on motor trucks over the highways. The railroad outfits were: London Trainway Exposition and Combined Musee (1940, proprietor unknown, one car, featured the world's largest hog, 1465 lbs., and perhaps a mermaid); Congo Cargo (1946, Sam Houston, three or four cars); British Africa Zoo (1951-1953, Howard Y. Bary, three cars); and Pan American Shows, of which there were two different editions, one on rail and the other on trucks. The general idea was to park the cars near a railroad station or in a freight yard, open the doors, and have the people walk through, the show publicity being newspaper ads, posters, handbills and local signage. The day when people went to such places for education or entertainment had passed and all of them eventually failed. Someone named C. C. Smith operated the Pan American Show Train of 1943. It had a whale, a mermaid [!], a headless woman illusion, Popeye and a Punch & Judy outfit, and moved on a single railroad car. This outfit may have been on tour in 1942, as an advertisement exists that was used in one of these years: 1936, 1942 or 1953. The same mermaid cut had been used previously by the London Trainway Exposition, suggesting that they were somehow connected, suggesting operations 1940-1943. It may have been a successor to the Pacific Whaling Company operations. Circus man W. F. Duggan, Sr. ( -1951) operated the Pan-American World-Wide Animal Exhibit from 1947 to 1949, and perhaps into 1950, too. The outfit was framed at Seguin, Texas, identified as the Dailey Bros. Circus winter quarters, during the winter of 1946-1947. It moved on trucks and showed under two tents, a 36 x 120 big top and a 22 x 40 sideshow. Duggan presumably realized the shortcomings of being tied to the tracks. The 1949-1950 version of the Pan-American Animal Exhibit and Monkey Circus is best known from surviving illustrated couriers. Though a "Mr. Paul Rice" of Rich Hill, Missouri, is mentioned as the proprietor, Duggan was the proprietor. The elephant Nancy was with it, and she is known as a Duggan asset. The courier stated "Exhibits Carried on Own Cars," but that was misleading. It was a truck and not a rail outfit. There is further information about Duggan's circus career in Joseph T. Bradbury's article, "Duggan Bros. Circus 1934," White Tops, LVIII, 2, pages 4-9. Pan American Shows is also listed by Joe McKennon's "Pictorial History of the American Carnival" as being an active carnival title 1934-1959, but no details are provided. I don't recognize it as a railroad outfit, so it must have moved on trucks. Fred Dahlinger
3370. New book, 08 Jun 2010 - I recently saw a review of a new circus book in Circus Report (May) but there was no mention of where it could be purchased. The title is 'Wild Animal Circus - True Tales from the Carson & Barnes Circus'. Does anyone know who sells this book and accompanying cd? D. Younger. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3369. Free items, 08 Jun 2010 - I have an official route card for the Barnett Bros. Circus for the 1938 season, a 1977 program book from the Ringling Bros & Barnum and Bailey Circus and a record album titled: Music from the Big Top, played by Carl Stevens and His Circus Band. The record appears not to have ever been played. These items are FREE to anyone who wants them. Taker has to supply postage. I can be reached at: rlbtwinss@gmail.com. I am located in Philadelphia, PA. Rebecca. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3368. Delta Woods Hatfield, 06 Jun 2010 - My great Aunt is Delta Woods Hatfield. Family legend says she ran away to a circus and married a man name Hatfield. My research shows that man was Fred Hatfield, who from what I read on your website was involved in the Campbell circus in late 1900s. My question is-what circus was Fred and Delta associated with? Time frame would be from 1920 on. Any info appreciated. Thank you, Janet Woods Leahy, Burlington, Ma. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Fred Hatfield was the son of Martha Josie Campbell, born February 25, 1855 and Mr. Hatfield. Fred was born in October 1877. Mary Albina Campbell, nee Connell, born July 8, 1834, at Adams County, Ohio. She was married on March 18, 1854 in the State of Indiana, Lafayette, Tippecanoe county and married by a Jared B. Mershon, Minister of the Gospel. Mary Campbell’s father was a Stephin Connell of Ohio. Mary Campbell’s children were:
Martha Josie Campbell, born February 25, 1855
I hope this helps, and when my book: “Cossacks, Indians & Buffalo Bill” comes out you may discover move Campbell Bros. show information. Richard A. Georgian, Email: rgeorgian@embarqmail.com
Princeton, Gibson County, Indiana, was the home of long-time showman Ernest A. Harrington, who operated variety tent shows, a circus, and one of the last Uncle Tom's Cabin shows. His circus of 1932-1934, as well as a brief biography, is covered in Joseph T. Bradbury's article "Harrington's Nickel Plate Show, A Depression Circus Lasting Three Seasons." It was published in "Bandwagon," July-August 2001, pages 16-25. Therein, in the 1932 coverage, it is noted that Mr. and Mrs. Fred Hatfield presented the ponies and aerial act. The specific article is in "Billboard," June 4, 1932, page 53. Perhaps the Hatfields were hired because of Ms. Wood's pre-existing knowledge of Mr. Harrington's activities? Another article, in "Billboard," May 21, 1932, page 34, declares: "Freddie Hatfield, known to the old-timers as Fred Campbell, of Campbell Bros.' Great Consolidated Shows." Fred and Delta Hatfield were found in the 1920 US Census, in Enid City, Garfield County, Oklahoma. Both were residing in a rooming house, married, Fred, age 43, a waiter, and Delta, age 29, unemployed. One assumes that they partook in the same show activities subsequent to their marriage. There is a good possibility that Hatfield's marriage to Ms. Woods was reported in the matrimony listings of "Billboard," but unless someone has already found it, the entry will take some work to locate. Fred Hatfield's name did not come up in regular 1910 census searching, but he is in the 1910 census at Fairbury, Nebraska, listed as a single man, age 31 [T624/848/92]. The marriage to Ms. Woods must have taken place sometime later, between 1910 and 1920. Only ten years later Hatfield's age was given as 43, so it had some "variability." The Campbell Bros. show history was recently covered by Bob Cline in "Bandwagon," January-February 2009, pages 3-29. Therein Hatfield's birth and death years are given as 1876 and 1937 (and also 1939). I assume that an obituary for him could be found in "Billboard." He's identified as a nephew of the Campbells. His mother, "Josie" Hatfield (-1949) was a sister of the Campbell brothers. There is further data given therein about Fred Hatfield's circus activities, including: Cole Bros. 1913, with Lee Greer; Greer and Hatfield's Trained Animal Shows in 1916; Glenn and Hatfield in 1922; Campbell and Hatfield in 1923; and Mr. and Mrs. Hatfield had a Lee & Howe circus reported as active 1931-1934. He gives Delta Hatfield's death as 1939, which conflicts with your 1973 date. Fred Dahlinger
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3367. Route books, 05 Jun 2010 - I have been looking for two route books without success: Howe's Great London 1921 and Gollmar Bros 1922. Will trade or purchase. Thanks - Dave Price, cbmus@bellsouth.net. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3366. Miller Bros., 04 Jun 2010 - I need info on the Miller Bros., Jack, Mark, Bill and I believe Myrtle. Bryon. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3365. K.K.K. auspices, 29 May 2010 - In a Billboard article from February 21, 1925, it says "Slivers Johnson's act played Clarksburg, West Virginia under auspices of the K.K.K." Is this the Ku Klux Klan or another organization? Tom. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
http://www.sarasotahistoryalive.com/stories/stories-by-jeff-lahurd/separate-but-not-equal/
and this is an advance story: http://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1787&dat=19261001&id= The group's underlying agenda was not presented in the announcement. The "Billboard" obituary for Morton (1894-1956) is here:
http://books.google.com/books?id=hwoEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA76&dq=bob+morton+circus&hl=en&ei= I believe that a piece of ephemera, perhaps a handbill, survives from a KKK-titled or associated circus. The circus was not always compliant with the Klan. George Conklin's memoir recounts a fierce battle with one local group, the worst in his memory:
http://books.google.com/books?id=sbzZMD7BRNEC&pg=PA238&dq=KKK+circus&hl= The Circus Fans Association long staged a Koo Koo Klub feature at their national conventions, but the K K K-style name was derived from the initials of an Evansville, Indiana newspaper editorial cartoonist with circus enthusiasm, Karl Kae Knecht (1883-1972), who helped to organize the group in the 1920s. Fred Dahlinger
3364. Prince Savo, 28 May 2010 - I am looking for any information on a circus performer from NYC during the 1920's. His stage name was "Prince Savo" he swallowed live gold fish, ate light blubs, swallowed coins, laid on a bed of nails. His proper name was Joseph Tortorice. He performed with Barnum and Bailey. Thank you, Margaret. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 3363. John Wilkes Booth mummy, 28 May 2010 - Go Go Luckey Productions is producing the History Channel's "Decoded" series. We are trying to track down the private owner of circus collectibles who owns the famous John Wilkes Booth mummy. If you have any information please contact me at 310-314-3900x-224. Thanks Arthur Maturo. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3362. Benjamin Brodsky, 25 May 2010 - I am looking for information on a Russian immigrant named Benjamin Brodsky, who joined with a circus performing in New York in the 1890s and went on to own part of the circus in the mid to late 1890s (and then sold it - apparently with headlines in the Saturday Evening Post about the sale). He also worked as an advance man for this circus and claimed advertising budgets of up to $150,000 (which may be exaggerated). The only other info I have on which circus it is is that its winter quarters were somewhere in Florida, it traveled to Tacoma and Spokane, Washington, and it had a lion among its menagerie. Anyway I would love to try to figure out which circus he worked for/owned and whether anyone has any further info on the circus and the man. Thanks. ERIC. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Birth years of 1875, 1877 and c1881 have been found in the literature (c1881 from his 1906 marriage license with Mamie Lebowitz). His mother died when he was 14 and presumably he knew of it first hand, before quitting his blacksmith apprenticeship and leaving the area of Odessa, Russia, embarking on the odyssey that ended with his landing in New York City on an English freighter. That would place his immigration sometime in or after 1889, 1891 or 1895. He somewhat indicates going to work directly for the circus upon arrival. In New York, that would mean a summer season, May to October. His circus ownership was reportedly incurred at the age of 19; it could be 1894, 1896 or c1900. The latter date would seemingly be in conflict with his statement that he had owned the second circus before going to the Philippines after the conclusion of the Spanish-American War. That leaves the other two possibilities. He indicated that there were two owners of the circus and that he toured with it for four seasons before becoming half owner. That would establish circus employment as 1891-1894 or 1893-1896. The scenario that best fits the data he provided is: birth in 1877; arrival in the US in mid-1891; circus activity 1891-1894 with ownership in 1894. Brodsky reportedly put down $9000.00 for his half-share in the circus, after it had been seized and placed up for sale by a sheriff. That is a bit of an unusual twist, but perhaps it's possible. The value suggests a small to modest railroad circus. Brodsky's name doesn't appear in any circus title list, so he must have been a silent owner, or what is termed an "angel." The chance that it was a carnival is likely precluded by the 1891-1894 timing, before the carnival business really prospered. He makes no mention of when or how his investment in the circus came to a conclusion. The accounts I found don't include the "Saturday Evening Post" article that you mention, nor the advance man position, the $150,000 advance budget, the Florida winter quarters or the travel to the Pacific Northwest. The latter two geographic factors would point to the troupe as being a railroad circus. No overland outfit ever spanned from Florida to the Pacific Northwest. A railroad circus would also be attested to by a $150,000 advertising budget, which would have been a show the size of Barnum & Bailey or Ringling Bros. It is, as you suggest, likely exaggerated to some degree. None of the railroad shows that wintered at one point in Florida in the 1890s, those of W. C. Coup, George W. Hall Sr. and W. H. Harris, quite match the array of criteria. The second circus with which Brodsky was engaged was one that he acquired in Canada and took to China. No specifics are given for it. It failed there, in time for him to be in the US for the Spanish-American War of April-August 1898. He arrived in Manila after the conclusion of hostilities. If you can provide a citation for the SEP article, or specific quotations, they will help to identify the circuses in which Brodsky had an ownership interest. Perhaps the material therein, with the analysis above, will be adequate for someone to identify the specific shows in which Brodsky invested his money. For those intrigued by the Brodsky story, recommended reading includes: “Hong Kong Cinema” by Law Kar, Frank Bren and Sam Ho, 2004 [partially available on-line] http://languagetips.chinadaily.com.cn/hkedition/2010-03/13/content_9583826.htm; and http://www.offscreen.com/index.php/pages/essays/100_hk_cinema/. Fred Dahlinger Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3361. Richard Bodessa, 24 May 2010 - Hi! My name is Tyler and my father (Richard Bodessa) whom I've never met was in Wazzan circus group. He had a terrible fall in a routine and was no longer able to perform. I know he was good friends with another performer (Micky Barbie). If anyone has any information I would appreciate it. I also want to thank everyone who responded to my last post!! All the people past and present, hats off to you! What an amazing art form! Thanks, tyler, tylermel54@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3360. Swaypole accident, 24 May 2010 - Hello, about 1944, at the age of 12, I stood near an outdoor swaypole act when the pole broke near the top and the performer was killed in the fall. His wife was also part way up the pole and came down safely. This happened during a yearly carnival event in Salem, Illinois. The death made the front page of one of the St. Louis papers with a full length photo down the left edge of the page showing the full length of the 100 foot pole. Any information relating to this event would be appreciated. Thanks. Alan English, englishnm@att.net. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3359. Rex Ronstrom, 23 May 2010 - Hi, my name is Vik Foxx. My great grandfather was a friend of Emmett "Rex" Ronstrom. My great grandfather ended up with his famous leedy/ludwig zebra striped drum set. It was passed down to me and have since become a professional touring and recording drummer. I still own the drums which has the original logo bass drum head that say's Rex Ronstrom on it. My family was part of the vaudeville era that was the connection to Rex. Just wanted to share this information. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3358. Carroll Kingsley Miller, 23 May 2010 - I am interested to see if anyone has any information on my great grandfather Carroll Kingsley Miller of German descent. He was I believe the Barnum in the either late 1800's or early 1900's and was a either an aerialist or trapezist. I would appreciate any information. Thank you in advance. Janene Carles. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3357. Flying Battons, 22 May 2010 - I am searching for any information on the Flying Battons, a high trapeze German group in the mid to late 1800s. Thank you very much. Kate Jennings. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3356. Ella Kirtland, Louis Weigand, 22 May 2010 - Does anyone have any information on Ella Emeline Kirtland, b. 1854 in OH and her husband, Louis Henry Weigand, b. 1854. They were married Feb 09, 1881 in Milwaukee, WI, and were members of the Lilliputian Opera Company. Ella was the daughter of Capt. Charles Erastus Kirtland and his wife, Emeline E. Beckwith. Louis was the son of Henry Weigand and his wife Anna. I've found articles about them in newspapers from 1877 to 1881, primarily the Chicago Tribune. I haven't found anything about them after 1881. There was an 1888 article in the Chicago Tribune about the suicide of Louis Weigand, apparently because he was "unlucky in love," but I don't know if this is the same person. Sue Wilson. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 3355. Jacky Phillips, clown, 19 May 2010 - I'm seeking information about 'Jacky Phillips' born in Niles, Ohio; who is thought to have joined Barnum & Bailey's circus ca 1910. He was a 'little person' employed as a clown. He is thought to have met his death somewhere in Pennsylvania as the result of a fall, and possible head trauma, probably unconnected with his employment. Hedley. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3354. Circuses, month of May, 18 May 2010 - What does the month of May have to do with the circus? I know Circus Day is May 19th – anything else? Jim Yarbrough. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3353. Green Family circus, 18 May 2010 - I am trying to find any information on the Green Family circus which was around in the early 1900's. George Green, Edward (Ted) Green, Lois Green - contortionist - and not sure if any other family were with them. Any information would be a great help. Thank you Christine Green. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3352. Doc Higgins, 18 May 2010 - My husband's grandfather was William Y. "Doc" Higgins, a veterinarian for the circus in the 50's and 60's. My mother in law Suzann Higgins Deppe has wonderful memories of growing up with the circus. A recent Google search of Doc Higgins' name brought me to your message board, where I have been in contact with a couple of folks who remember him well. One of them sent me a picture of Doc ministering to a bear, which thrilled Suzann to pieces! This has led me on a new mission of seeking as many pictures and articles that mention Doc Higgins as I can find. I have already ordered five back editions of the Bandwagon that I understand from the searchable index mention Doc. I have also found several pictures of him after he left the circus, through the magic of Google. Can anyone direct me to any further resources, besides the Bandwagon, where I might find pictures or mentions of Doc? I have pretty much exhausted Google as a resource. I came across one article that suggested Doc's memoirs were recorded by Bob Brisendine in 1966, when Doc was at the Atlanta Zoo. Are those memoirs stored anywhere? Thank you so much in advance for any help or advice you can provide, Wendy Deppe. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Bob, thank you for the clue about the 1955 program - I have just bought a copy off of ebay and can't wait to see it! Suzann has mentioned to me about the Greatest Show on Earth, that is so cool! Mr. Roth, thank you for the added stories! Yes, my husband's grandmother's name was Geneva. She is listed in one Bandwagon article as "Selma Higgins"; Suzann tells me her legal name was Selma but she went by Geneva always. My husband thinks Doc's second wife was Jo Ann, but he's not sure. My own husband is Doc's namesake and goes by Bill...neither one of us knew that Doc was known as Bill to others as well! I am putting together a scrapbook of articles and pictures that I have come across, for Suzann's birthday this summer. I have found quite a few gems including a picture of Doc with Frasier the lion and an accompanying article about Frasier's death (Frasier was not a circus lion, but rather with the Lion Country Safari). There are a few other smatterings of articles about a young Ringling giraffe that died, and a new herd of elephants, in which Doc is mentioned. I'm happy to share what I've found with you all! And of course as always if anyone has any other pictures or articles I'd love to include those in the scrapbook. My email address is auntwendy@gmail.com. I've also posted some of what I've found on my blog (May 18th entry, and you can also see pictures of my Bill there!) http://stepinthetrenches.blogspot.com/ Suzann is going to be so thrilled to read all of your memories of her beloved dad! Thank you all so much for taking the time to comment! Wendy
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3351. Thelma Hill, 16 May 2010 - Looking for someone who might have any information about a lady named Thelma Hill? I had a short aquaintence with her in 1964 at El Paso, Tx. where she had an amusement park and at the time was associated with R. A. Miller who owned a shopping center circus/kiddy ride unit, "Miller Bros. Circurama." It was a time of a new beginning in my life and she was a great help at a very difficult time. She helped me with my 6 week old daughter while I was training a new Dog Act and learning to work and handle an elephant "Jesse" that I would continue for about 12 years. My husband, Ray Olive and I became co-owners of the unit when R.A.Miller died in 1970. I hope she is still living and would hope someone has information about her. Betty Olive, olive.betty@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
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