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Message Archive: Messages 3501 - 36003600. Saginaw, Michigan elephant, 07 Feb 2011 - My name is Steve West and I have a small restaurant in Saginaw, Michigan. I hear alot of stories and one recently was that there was a famous elephant that died in our area and was buried in a cemetery in our City. Maybe at the turn of the century, early 1900's. I have been trying to find out if this is true. Thanks for any help. Steve. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3599. Roy J. Kohn, 06 Feb 2011 - I am looking for any information on my father Roy J. Kohn. In 1938 at the age of 17 he and his acrobat troupe joined the Shrine Circus. He was trained as an acrobat by then policeman Arvid Friedlund in Detroit Michigan. As the story goes he later performed with Ringling Brothers. At one point the troupe was named the Picchinni (sp) troupe. This is all I have to go on so far, any help would be appreciated. Thanks. replies can be sent to S.barnette@comcast.net. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3598. Frank James, Cole Younger shows, 05 Feb 2011 - My wife and I are trying to find out information about either the Cole Younger & Frank James Wild West show (1903) and the Cole Younger & Lewis Nichols Show (1908). My wife is the director of the James Farm museum and hoped that we could find out a bit more about Younger and James' shows. becstar. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3597. Circus train logistics, 04 Feb 2011 - Good day. I am searching for information about a story that occurred in the 1930s. Sometime between 1934 and 1940 a group of German Wehrmacht (Army) officers traveled with an American circus train studying the logistics of large equipment and personnel movement by train. This was reported at the time in one or more newspapers. I am trying to locate either the newspaper stories or anyone who might have knowledge of the stories. Thanks very much. Grover Gatewood, Bridgehampton, New York. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Kirmes magazine, the excellent German show monthly covering fairgrounds and amusement parks world wide did a nice 4 part series of articles in the 1990's on moving shows - first, on boats, canal barges, then road and then rail. The sides and ends of standard flat cars have about a two food side which fold down. On the ends they almost meet - so no cross over plates are needed. They is a slight hump when going over them. The sides all fold down and they bridge what ever distance there is from the side of the car to the ramp. You cannot load wagons by using a tractor and cable going along side the flats in European rail yards. For one thing - many are electrified and most are very busy. There is no roam or way you can drive a tractor or truck flat alongside the flat car - Period. Show trains in Europe unload and load from the flat cars side ways. They call the cement or cobbled area beside the baggage depot the "ramp" as opposed to our runs. Usually the first flat in the train is not loaded too tightly or only has a tractor and one smaller wagon on it so there space for the tractor to turn sharply and pull the wagon off the car onto the ramp. On the inside side pieces the steel is slightly curved when folded down onto the ramp to bridge the space between the flat car and the ramp. Once this first flat is cleared it is often left there to provide an extended loading area for tractors and trucks pulling other wagons off the cut. Circus Knie one of three remaining rail shows in Europe still leaves the run car in today. The Austrian National Circus when Louis Knie Sr. had it usually left the run car at the ramp during the loading or unloading of each cut. The length of the cuts are usually short governed by the length of the siding - usually 6-8 flat cars are in each cut. Krone left the run car in too but the last time I saw it they unloaded 4 cuts at once off the end of the flats onto a big four track end ramp area. Today they are few rail circuses because these ramps no longer exist in Holland, Germany etc. as most freight is moved by transport or boat. Enis Togni told me he was through touring there because of the lack of good ramps. One stand in Holland he unloaded 30 miles away in the next big city and lost a day's showing. The last time in the 1990's that i saw Togni's huge Circus Americano unload from the train, the yard engine had pushed the first long cut into the ramp back wards - that is - the wagon tongues were towards the caboose instead of to the front. After a few minutes of cursing the train master and crew brought up a tractor from the lot and went half way down the cut where they fixed a chain under the under gear of one of the wagons and turned it side ways with the tractors help - then they yanked it off the flat opening up space to start unloading from in the normal way. The flat cars used are usually standard size rail flats that are the same from country to country. The one exception to this that I saw was in the last season of Austrian National Circus that Elfie Jacobu Althoff owned. She had two 80 foot cars in the 30 flats or so. She had very old guider style centre poles that didn't come a part. They were left i as one long steel 50' plus mast and hung over both ends of the pole wagon a long ways. It and a tractor went onto one long flat. At the time Elfie was very sick and she insisted that her three wagons - kitchen, living room and bedroom wagons be left hooked up and on one flat. They went on the other long flat. Circus Roncalli has to use the train because they use old wagons that have not been adapted for present road use so that their historic old appearance has been kept. Last year when Roncalli came to Amsterdam by train they unloaded in the port area where there was no ramp. Roncalli had a steel firm manufacture them a 40 foot steel ramp. I was lucky enough to see this in use again when they played Wursburg in October. Those are the only two times they have used such an arrangement but as the ramps disappear it will not be there last. So far in Switzerland they still move a lot of freight by rail and most places still have good ramps. However, the Knie train master last year expressed fears that the situation may change. The show has been pulling more and more equipment over the road in the last decade. The animals no longer go by box cars but in semi-trailers. The big top poles no longer go on the train. There are two two sets of main poles in use and they are leap frogged from lot to lot and already set-up on the new lot when the show comes in. The tent canvas has been moved for years in dump like trucks. The show has also been dropping the smaller wagons on the show. They have replaced many small living wagons with longer and bigger units. This winter the half dozen short press and office wagons were replaced by four long wagons. The story about German military folks coming to the U.S. to lean to move stuff by rail is pure B.S. Al Stencell.
3596. Joseph Keeley, 03 Feb 2011 - Joseph Keeley had a small circus and travelled England, Scotland and Ireland. He was at one time part of Lovett, Keeley and Ohmy. Johnny Patterson joined him in Ireland during 1887 until his death in 1889 and Keeley married his widow. Can anyone tell me more? I would particularly like to know when Joseph Keeley was born? sheila.sexton@btinternet.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3595. Photos identification, 01 Feb 2011 - I recently received my Grandfather's circus photo album. His name was Raymond (Ray) Grinstead. In 1921 he was a clown in the Howes Great London Circus with his best friend of 50+ years, Emmett Kelly. Some of the photos are labeled, but I need help identifying people, cages and band wagons. Can you recommend a website to help me with this? Thank you in advance for your help! Regards, Lisa. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3594. Clyde Beatty statue, 30 Jan 2011 - My name is Elsie Danner and I’ve been trying for a year to research a bronze statue of Clyde Beatty which was originally placed outside the Valencia mall in Valencia, CA. I’ve contacted numerous people whom I thought could assist me in finding this bronze statue in order to get a picture of it for my cousin who has quite a memorabilia. Collection of Clyde Beatty. My cousin, David Cook, lives in Salem, NH and he tells me as a child he attended the circuses in Manchester, NH and was so very interested in the circus life. Clyde Beatty became very friendly with David and allotted him quite a bit of time when he was there. David has asked me to try and track down this statue and so far, I haven’t had too much success. I’m not sure if this particular inquiry falls under your category, but perhaps you can lead me in the right direction. Thank you so much for your time. Sincerely, Elsie Danner. 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 3593. Christian faith experience & circus, 29 Jan 2011 - I am putting together a "worship experience" for our gathering of clergy and families this June at Circus World Museum. Does anyone know of any resources that would link the Christian faith experience with the circus? Also, if there are any resources that would be used by the circus for a faith/worship experience? Thank you in advance for your guidance. Dave Hankins, Portage, WI. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Faith is not a topic commonly encountered in circus historiography except in obituaries, where a belief association might be discerned from the church or clergyman utilized for the memorial service. The motivation for showmen’s publicly acknowledged charitable actions, including the funding of illness care, housing and board, and burial, is typically not discussed. Ministering to others in times of tragedy, ill health and end of life is not noted as they are outside the public view of the ring, back yard, etc. Maintaining Christian faith while someone is on the road obviously presents both challenges [difficulty of maintaining contact with fellow brothers and sisters, attending services, being a church body member] and opportunities [spreading the Gospel amongst fellow show people and citizens over considerable geographic area]. There was greater opportunity to practice one’s faith when a circus was in winter quarters, when regular worship attendance was possible, if permitted by church governance. There’s an interesting story of a minister traveling with the Campbell Bros. Circus. See “Bandwagon,” Sept-Oct 1959, pages 13-17, a copy of which could be obtained from CWM archivist Peter Shrake, pshrake@circusworldmuseum.com. It is also on-line on this website at: http://www.circushistory.org/Bandwagon/bw-1959Sep.htm You might also ask Peter about the contents of a vertical file titled “religion.” There is also a file on circus professionals who were or are Jewish. The nicknames of at least two circus figures suggest a possible strong Christian affiliation: David “Deacon” Blanchfield and Ernest “Deacon” Albright. I was told that Blanchfield never passed a church without going in. There is considerable biographical information on both men. I suspect that some troupers conducted services quite routinely for their fellow showmen, but locating specific references to the activity escapes me at the moment. Biblical history was utilized by showmen for the basis of some activities. Spectacles were scripted about “Nero, or the Destruction of Rome,” “Solomon and the Queen of Sheba,” “The Fall of Nineveh,” “The Crusades,” Noah and the Flood and other topics. The Noah epic utilized the abundance of circus menagerie animals as part of the presentation. Some occupants of the pulpit were openly hostile towards circus people in the 19th century. They judged them as agents of Satan, doing no justifiable work or service, their physical activities akin to magic and the black arts. There’s a well-known 1815 anti-circus statement in print in Stuart Thayer’s and other works. More can be garnered from Greg Renoff’s book “The Big Tent, The Traveling Circus in Georgia, 1820-1930.” A booklet published by the American Sunday School Union in the mid-19th century also was critical of the circus trade and its participants. Yet, there were alternative views that were also based on interpretation of Biblical verse, such as this resource: http://books.google.com/books?id=aUAEAAAAQAAJ&pg=PA288&dq=circus+christian&hl= en&ei=GARHTfrOGsSblgfE-IlC&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved= 0CCsQ6AEwADgK#v=onepage&q=circus%20christian&f=false Even where they resided showmen were sometimes subject to anti-circus sentiments by Christians of the community. Though his family was Christian, as a young lad Walter Gollmar Jr. was rejected by a neighbor where he had been sent to purchase some cream. The lady refused to sell it to him because his coinage was tainted “circus money.” He personally told this story to me. Circus men started to combine ring shows with menageries in 1832, and progressively did it more frequently until the two were inseparable. The idea was that the clergy and other Christians would buy a ticket to see the menagerie, and might be induced to consider circus attendance. In numerous instances, Christians, in denial, could be observed inside the circus tent, using the ruse that they were accompanying their children or grandchildren. Showmen like P. T. Barnum made special appeals to the clergy, to consider the value of their natural history displays and such, activities other than the ring displays. There was some limited direct invoking of "appropriated Biblical verse," “the lion shall lie down with the lamb,” in regards to exotic animal training and presentation [Isaiah 11:6 and 65:25], and “behemoth of Holy Writ,” concerning the alleged “blood sweating hippopotamus.” [Job 40: 15-24] Showmen were observant of the Sabbath through the 19th century and well into the 20th century. They only began to embrace Sunday shows after such activity also took place in local communities. Circuses that embraced policies of unilateral honesty and fair treatment of customers, especially families and women and children, earned the nickname of “Sunday school shows.” The term is known in the 1890s, but the practices date to the 1870s and before. Most clergy attending to the spiritual needs of circus people have been Roman Catholic priests and nuns. Father Ed Sullivan served the circus community for many years and his surviving papers are at Circus World Museum. Priests and others have blessed circus activity [including the RBBB train] and a church in Sarasota, FL has many members from the circus community in the locale. Father David Tetrault, a Protestant clergyman last known to be in Williamsburg, VA has been active in the recent past. There is also the Rev. “Doc” Waddell, an apparent lay minister, who presided over the unconventional wake and service for circus man Dode Fisk in 1941. A scrapbook of material originating with Waddell is in the Don Howland collection at Circus World Museum. Various Ringling brothers were adherents of different faiths. Gus Ringling embraced the Roman Catholicism of his wife. Following his passing, his brothers, in one of their rarely acknowledged public acts of their charity, funded a pipe organ for her parish, St. Joseph’s in Baraboo. Henry may have been Episcopalian [as embraced by his descendants], Al and his parents were Lutheran [existing church record], etc. It would be a mistake to connect the “Circus” of ancient Roman times, wherein Christians were sacrificed, with the modern circus. About all that they share in common is the name. Also be aware that the temporary wooden structure housing the ring performance in North America was known as the “circus” through at least 1835. Many of them served alternative purposes. Some writers have been confused by the name application. Paul supported his missions work by working as a tentmaker. [Acts 18:3] He did so apparently with a special type of fabric. I assume that the tents were for travelers, nomadic people, etc. There’s no connection between tents and the modern circus [founded 1770, to the US in 1793] until 1825. It was literally a means to take the circus out of the city and to the people in the hinterlands. One can readily see possible parallels for discussion. As John already noted, contact with clergy serving show people today would be a good idea. Speaking with people in the business who are Christians would also be appropriate. Some reside near your community and could inform you about the activity commonplace today, as well as providing personal testimony. Fred Dahlinger Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
3592. H. C. Long, 29 Jan 2011 - I am doing my family history my great grand father H. C. Long, in 1914 was general agent for M. L. Clark and sons, any information on him will be appreciated. Paul. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3591. Bugler, Alsenborn, Germany, 27 Jan 2011 - Looking for anything about ancestors from Alsenborn Germany who were circus people there. Very little info. Name of Bugler. Have found one thing that confirms the name was linked to circus in Alsenborn. Any help would be appreciated, Sabine. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3590. Performers, surname Hudson, 26 Jan 2011 - I am looking for Circus performers from the early 20th century with the surname Hudson. William, Catherine(Kate) Samuel. Mary Anne, Susan and othes. If anyone can help, I will be very grateful. dmjspen@tiscali.co.uk. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3589. Bandwagon, Chung Ling Soo, 26 Jan 2011 - I am a collector of magic memorabilia and I have an article from an old magazine titled Truth About A Tragedy by Donald Stevenson. It is an account of Chung Ling Soo's death while performing the Bullet Catching Trick. A hand-written notation on this article says, "Band Wagon November 1948 Volume 7 number 5." I'm wondering if anyone can tell me if such an article exists in Band Wagon. I have a feeling that it doesn't. I do know that this article appeared in a magic newsletter in England in 1951. This makes a lot more sense since Donald Stevenson lived in England. Thanks in advance for any help you can provide. Mike Caveney. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3588. Candy seller badge, 25 Jan 2011 - My name is Bob Russell and I have something circus-related I'm looking for some information on. Some years ago I was searching around an old abandoned farmhouse with a metal detector and found a metal pin about 2 1/2 in. diameter with the words Ringling Bros. around the rim on the top, the large number 22 in the middle and the words Candy Store around the bottom rim. It is convex to the front and I believe it to be made of nickel. It has a heavy safety-pin type fastener soldered to the backside and the words Stein L&B. St. Louis. I have been told that it was a candy sellers badge. Any further information and approximate age would be appreciated. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
The Ringling Bros. circus was started in 1884. Through 1908 their concessions, including the candy stand/store, were a privilege maintained by the Parson family. A quick look at images for that time frame didn't reveal any pinned badges of the type you describe. The Parsons likely knew their crew on a first name basis and had no need for badges for personnel identification. From 1909 onwards the Ringlings controlled their own concessions directly. Their last year of operation as solely Ringling Bros. was 1918. It's possible that your badge is from that era. They had between 600 and 800 or more employees on the show at that time, with considerable turnover in employment. The numbered badges again served as a means to identify specific individuals when it came to pay day. Fred Dahlinger Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3587. Walter L. Main 1923, 21 Jan 2011 - Walter L. Main 1923 route info. Is it possible to trace the route and where can I look for info? Arthur. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
http://circusworld.wisconsinhistory.org/Library/AboutResearchCenter.aspx If you will click on the Virtual Library wheel to your left and then go to routes, the CHS has the entire 1922 Walter L. Main route on line if that helps any. Bob Cline
3586. George Graf, 21 Jan 2011 - I have a miniture carved circus wagon signed in pencil on the bottom "Geo Graf Peru Ind 1886." I know he had a role in carving but I can't find much. Hank Guck, guckhh@aol.com. Thank you for any help. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3585. India Circuses ca 1930-40, 20 Jan 2011 - My friend is trying to locate anyone whom has knowledge of a John Donald Arklie or Arkley that is believed to have joined a circus in the 1930's, he was from Calcutta, Bombay and may have died whilst with the Circus. John was born in 1909 and married a Edna Patrica Dyer daughter of Victor Ernest Dyer they married in 1930. The family of John & Edna would like any information anyone may have and we know Edna re-married in 1937 so we believe that John died between 1930 and 1937 or just divorced this wife and went of with the circus. Regards, KA. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3584. Wilbur Cherry, 20 Jan 2011 - I have recently discovered that my husband's great grandfather, Wilbur Cherry, was a the General Agent for and the "Cherry" in "Rubin & Cherry". I have purchased a copy of the Rubin & Cherry book by Chris Audibert, which contains some information about Wilbur Cherry. I am searching for additional information about Wilbur Cherry, and would appreciate any leads. Chris Audibert's book mentions that Wibur Cherry was briefly with his brother's show, Devoux & Cherry. I have not been able to locate any information about this show or about Wilbur Cherry's brother. Again, I'd appreciate any leads. Finally, family lore has it that Wilbur Cherry's son, William Norton Cherry, owned a circus or an interest in a circus and his daughter was sometimes dressed in circus midget costumes. This would have been in the early 1930s in Montgomery Alabama, after Wilbur Cherry's death (in 1928). I know Rubin & Cherry wintered in Montgomery, but Chris Audibert's book indicates that Rubin Gruberg was the sole owner of Rubin & Cherry. Any clues on this would also be appreciated. Thanks in advance for any help or leads. Gayle Mayo, Biloxi, Mississippi. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Wanted!!! more circuses and more members of one of the greatest organizations in North America . . . CHS Membership 3583. Video, RBBB 1958, 19 Jan 2011 - Hello, Does anyone has footage of the season 1958, Ringling Bros Barnum & Bailey Circus? I worked there, center ring, Yvonne's Dogs. Please advise, I really would like to purchase the video if available. Thanks, Yvonne. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3582. RBBB cookhouse, 14 Jan 2011 - I am trying to find out how many people did Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey under canvas feed in the cookhouse. Also how much food of various kinds and amounts did they need to feed all these show folks like ponds of meat, flour, eggs, loafs of bread etc., and what ever else was needed for a day. Any help on this would be greatly appreciated as a Circus is wanting to know this. Harry Kingston CHS member, colebrosfan@aol.com. 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 3581. Michigan, circus grounds, 14 Jan 2011 - Hi, doing research on circus history in Michigan. Where the circus grounds were. Counties would be Tuscola and Saginaw. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks, prankcorkpine. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3580. Elephant, Babe, 11 Jan 2011 - Hello there! Would like to ask a question about a certain elephant named Babe. It was about 1947 that my uncle Ernie Susanj was caring for her on the Imperial Expedition show. My uncle would like to know if she might be still alive? He now is 83. Would like to know where she might be as a retired elephant. My uncle was about 20 years old when he was caring for her. He was quite fond of her, and her of him! So I hope you can find some info. on her or a picture of her possible. Here is my e-mail, TheMenagie@aol.com. My uncle is staying with us. So I do the computer things for him. Thank you for reading this, his niece Cecilia. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
I have thirty-one different elephants named BABE in my records from over the years with several more called Baby or Babylon. The elephant you are inquiring about is one I have not heard of. While Whitey is correct in his answer, this turns out to be a different elephant. Indeed, United Exposition Shows existed at the same time as Imperial Exposition shows under different owners and in different parts of the country. You are asking about the Imperial Exposition Shows. According to the Billboard magazine (Oct. 1, 1949, page 62 ), which was the entertainment news publication of this time period, Martin E. Arthur owned Imperial Exposition Shows. Joe McKennon’s “A Pictorial History of the American Carnival, Volume II” indicates that the Imperial Exposition Shows existed from 1946 to 1950. Prior to this, Martin E. Arthur was the owner of Arthur Bros. Circus from 1943 to 1945 When he closed the Arthur Bros. Circus after the 1945 season, all six of the elephants went in other directions. None of them stayed with Mr. Arthur. While searching through the Billboards found on Google Books, we find that Imperial Exposition’s elephant, Babe, lead the parade being ridden by Jerry Eagles and lead by Trainer Sclappe. ( Billboard, Aug. 2, 1947, page 67 ). Later she became restless in Albany, Oregon in September of 1947 (Billboard, Sept. 27, 1947, page 73 ) and took off into the woods after being in town for a week. Her trainer Tony Henry was able to capture her eventually after 12 hours. She got mired in the mud and they were able to get her back into the truck. The Imperial Expositions Shows was a carnival taking 8 major rides and four kiddie rides to Hawaii in 1947 for at least seven weeks of work. ( Billboard, Nov. 1, 1947, page 60 ) Also included in the journey was a Circus Side Show, a three man high balancing act and an elephant, Babe, as a free attraction. In early 1949, the Imperial Expositions show owner Martin Arthur had his elephant Babe, held by the Sheriff in Selma, Alabama while the elephant’s trainer, Frank Leggett awaited $675.00 in back pay. ( Billboard, Jan. 22, 1949, page 40 ) http://books.google.com/books?id=EBcEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PT39&dq=Babe,+elephant&hl=en&ei=VyIxTYHaLInMgQeU_qykCw&sa=X&oi= book_result&ct=result&resnum=9&ved=0CEMQ6AEwCDg8#v=onepage&q=Babe%2C%20elephant&f=false In another inquiry found on Rootsweb. Ancestry.com back in 2000, someone named Ron was trying to find out about the trainer of Babe who appeared in the Tarzan movies in the 1940’s, was on Imperial Expositions Shows in 1948 and later on Hagen Bros. in 1957. Therein lays a lot of confusion, as there was never an elephant named Babe on the Hagen Bros. Circus to my knowledge. See http://archiver.rootsweb.ancestry.com/th/read/THEATRICAL-ANCESTORS/2000-10/0971718626 The Tarzan movies were filmed mostly via the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios in the 1940’s. They actually bought their own elephants, Happy, Sally and Queenie and were trained by George Emerson at the Studios. The three appear on film as babies in the Tarzan movie “Tarzan’s New York Adventure in 1942. These three elephants remained with MGM from 1937 until 1946. I’ve gotten a little off track here, but the Babe you are looking for would be from 63 years ago and possibly grown at the time. I would be of the opinion that this elephant has found a better place by now. I would love to hear what your uncle remembers about Babe. Bob Cline fivetiger@shtc.net
3579. John Washington Smith, Kate Kirby, 11 Jan 2011 - I am much amazed and joyful that I have found this web-site and through it information about John Washington Smith. Kate Kirby was my great grandfather’s (William Kirby) sister. In my family there have always been stories of a history of touring performance and a hint of circuses. I was mainly told these things when I was performing with Circus Oz and studying theatre at the Victorian College of the Arts. I “knew” about John Washington Smith and Kate through some letters to my dad by one of his older cousins saying that she could remember visiting the family in South Melbourne and being amazed by all the wonderful curios from all over the world. She claimed that Kate and John had 9 children who were each born in a different country. As wonderful a this sounded, and as much as it appealed to my thespian imagination, I always took it with a grain of salt. All my dad’s family acted and were great musicians- playing in town and army bands, the jazz scene in the 30’s etc.. One aunt had high pretensions to a professional acting career and always swore it was in the blood. She had a high degree of haughtiness in the blood too, so I always took everything she said with a grain of salt. There was always talk of an association with JC Williamson the famous theatre manager and performer. Recently I saw that the numbers didn’t add up- JWS was already dead when JCW arrived in Australia. So I then dismissed the whole story as fantasy. Then! Lo and behold here it is! Available for even little old skeptical me to read and discover! It’s even more amazing than I thought! But learning more I am beset by way more questions. Kate Kirby was the eldest of 8 young Kirby’s (20 at the time) who arrived in Australia from County Limerick in 1855 on the Amazon. My great Grandfather was the next youngest at 19, and the youngest member of the family was Sally aged 7. How on earth did Kate Kirby manage to meet, and then not only meet, but win the heart of this internationally famous performer? There is a reference in one of your entries in the biography section that mentions in passing that J W Smith’s wife was an equestrienne? Is that Kate? It would not altogether amaze me if she had excellent musical skills as perfect pitch has shown up regularly in the family. But an equestrienne? Does this indicate that she would have performed as JWS toured? Does anyone there have more detailed information about her? Or indeed their relationship, whether or not she travelled with him, whether or not it is true that she had “children in many different countries”? I understand that for the purposes of history, and her gender at the time this was happening , a lesser light than her husband, but is there any way of digging up material about her. It seems JWS was much more famous in America than Australia- though, I am assuming that. Given how un-PC his act was maybe people have shoved the history under the carpet? Could somone tell me more about “The Lion Ciruc, managerie and Gymnastic Arena”, or his “grotesque acts” In the reference it talks about “this city” which is “this city”? Who were “Stone and McCollman”. If he wrote “Old Man Ridley” why did someone else claim and publish that they did? It says JWS “managed for Burton” who was Burton? It also says later he “managed Collins and Brown “Christys””- who were they? And all the other references - About Mr JWS! For the record, on their wedding certificate- they were married at St Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral in Melbourne by the rites of the Catholic Church on the 26th October 1860. On the wedding certificate it says that JWS’s parents were Cornelius Smith and Betsy Lynch. It also says he was born in London. I found birth references for both of his parents and if they are correct they were born in England too. Doesn’t mean though that the family wasn’t of Irish extraction. Perhaps his parents were also entertainers and I imagine it would be in their interest to be based in London if that were the case? Pure speculation! It means we have a photocopy of JWS’s signature and that an original one is held by the records office of Victoria. If there is someone out there is has been, or is currently, or who has a passion to research these amazing people I would love to hear from them! My name is Margaret Kirby and I live in Geelong, Victoria, Australia. Thank you for this web-site, and thank you for considering my email. I hope very much to hear from someone with more information. Kindest regards and greatest of anticipation, Margaret Kirby. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3578. H. P. Rafael, 09 Jan 2011 - Hi there, I am chasing any info on a H. P. Rafael. He was a horse rider from Columbia, and an apprentice to Rowes circus around 1849-50. Then traveled to Australia via Hawaii – 1852-54. Looking for departure ports, ships name or names, passenger lists, ports of entry to Hawaii or Australia. I believe he was the proprietor of Rafaels Great Australian circus in 1867. He married a Isabella Erwin around 1870-71. He could be my great grand father. Any info will be greatly appreciated, regards, R. Raphael. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
http://www.oac.cdlib.org/search?style=oac4;Institution=California%20State%20Library;idT=3e357088ea6fa62823c959bd8b75b6ec A recent inspection of them by circus history scholar Matt Wittman indicates that just about everything in the collection was utilized in the Dresser book. You will also find your man listed in Stuart Thayer's "Annals of the American Circus, 1793-1860," under "Raphael (also Rafael)" in the index [three citations]. Raphael is given as "Rafael (r[eal] n[ame] may be Gambor or Tolano) in Slout's "Olympians of the Sawdust Circle," available on this website. It is the first entry under the Ra-Ri segment. Unfortunately, Slout doesn't list specific resources. He did rely upon the "Clipper" and other generally accepted sources, perhaps finding an obituary for the showman since his entries go up to 1867, after Thayer's coverage ceases. http://www.circushistory.org/Olympians/OlympiansR1.htm For ship manifests and such, either check on-line genealogy resources or seek a local support group for assistance. Often a local library will have contracted for one of the on-line resources that provides such information, www.ancestry.com and so on. Fred Dahlinger, Curator of Circus History, Circus Museum, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3577. Blog, Harold Voise, 08 Jan 2011 - Hi folks: I am starting a small blog of circus history photos particular to Harold Voise and brothers since he was my uncle. Let me know how you feel in viewing these many photos. Right now there are only about 20 but I have many more from my uncle's estate. The collection is extensive so it will take time to put all the items out. Craig Voise, Gladwin, MI. See: HaroldVoise.blogspot.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3576. Christiana Circus, 08 Jan 2011 - In the 60s in Sarasota I often went diving with Christine, Nadio and Ladio Christiana. There father and grandfather owned the Christiana Brothers Circus. Do you know if they are still alive and how I could get in touch with her and her brothers. John Slate, Fleming Island Florida. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3575. Oaky Melvina Bailey, 08 Jan 2011 - Hi to all. My aunt was born in 1898 and ran off twice as a kid to join the circus. But no one has heard from her since the 1920's. Her name was Oaky Melvina Bailey who may of married a Shirly Keep. She my aunt is from Iowa. She was last seen in Omaha, Nebraska. She acted as well as sang and danced. Any info out there. Thanx, M. D. Bailey. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3574. Charles Frank Leon, 07 Jan 2011 - Hello. My father was Charles Frank Leon II, from Omaha, Nebraska, born 1911. He died in 1999 so I cannot ask him more questions but perhaps you can assist me. His father was Charles Frank Leon I, or Sr., and when my father was a boy, his dad had a circus probably in the Omaha area, in a partnership called Leon/Lemon or Lemmon-Leon and it got sold to Ringling or Barnum, a very large circus. This would have been quite early in the 1900's, I am guessing. My grandmother, Herminia Ninger Leon died in 1955 and when my dad went to Omaha to bury her and make final arrangements, he came back very angry because his sister had destroyed all the circus posters and whatnot that had been kept from those old circus days. Do you have any information I can research further? I was surprised to see the Lemmon name for circus biz here on your site. Can you help me for the next step? I cannot even find when my grandfather died or an obit on him for further research. I believe he must have died very poor and separated from the wife, my grandmother. Many thanks, P. Nelson, BEACHSTUDIO@WAVECABLE.COM. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3573. Tiffin, Ohio 1870s, 07 Jan 2011 - Wow. I didn't realize there was such a site! How would I find out if a circus ever wintered in Tiffin Ohio in the 1870s? My search through your site revealed that a Barnum circus played there in the 70s, but I was thinking of a longer stay. Oral family history says that my great grandfather Charles Zahn was a blacksmith with "the circus" that wintered in Tiffin in the mid-1870s and that's how he met his bride, who lived there. Thank you, Sarah Scripture McDade. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
One circus man who did operate in the NW Ohio area in the 1860s-1870s was G. G. Grady, out of Kenton and Upper Sandusky. You can read about him in Slout's volume and also refer to CHS message 2964. A standard Google search also turned up numerous hits. Staff rosters that include the working men are quite scarce. Unless you find letters, photographs, a diary, newspaper references, directory entries, census listings, etc., you may never be able to confirm your ancestor's circus affiliation. A Chas. Zahn was listed in the 1870 census as a 19-year old clerk in Cincinnati, Ohio. The 1880 census lists a Joseph Zahn, Ironmaker, and wife Mary, both aged 45, with a son Charles, age 14, a worker in a nail mill, resident in Steubenville, Ohio. You may want to explore the family genealogy a bit more, confirm it, and then return to the circus investigation. Fred Dahlinger, Curator of Circus History, Circus Museum, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
3572. Alfredo Codona, 06 Jan 2011 - I am an author and journalist with The Times (London). I am keen to track down any known descendents of Alfredo Codona, Lillial Leitzel and Vera Bruce for a book I am researching. Any help gtaefully received. Rick Broadbent, The Times, London, UK. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Wanted!!! more circuses and more members of one of the greatest organizations in North America . . . CHS Membership 3571. Lone Face troupe, 06 Jan 2011 - I am seeking to find the tribal origins of “Lone Face & his daring troupe of North American Indians” who were advertised to perform with Lord John Sanger’s circus at Reading Berkshire UK , in March 1920. I believe it was one of the troupe who fathered a boy child with a local girl and his descendents would love to know more about their ancestry. Lesley Worstencroft, London, England. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3570. Circus World, Florida, 05 Jan 2011 - I'm looking for the last date and year Ringling Bros. closed their Circus World in Florida just off I 4 and Hwy 27. I do know the first date but need the last date. If you could help it would be great. Thank you Arron. email Smcircuslot@aol.com. 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 3569. Joseph Weston, 05 Jan 2011 - I am searching for info on my friend's grandfather Joseph Weston who worked for the Circus in England in the late 1920's early 1930's we are looking for any records or info. Any information on where to search for European Circus info would be greatly appreciated. My friend has a few photos of Circus performers that her Grandfather would bring home, and she knows for a fact he worked in a behind the scenes way(not a performer) for the Circus. Thank You for your time! Sincerely, Mrs. Crystal York. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3568. Big top floor plans, 03 Jan 2011 - I am looking for reference of bigtop layouts / blueprints of actual tent deminsions, would you have an idea where I could find these? I've done alot of searching and haven't been able to find any yet. Thanks, greg d. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
http://www.canobbio.com/ http://www.anceschicarlo.it/ http://www.cobertex.com.br/circos http://www.amteloni.com/ http://www.atrealban.com/Catalog/Language1/Default.aspx?Page=0&Template=Default.html jim@stockley.co.za
3567. Anna Rosenbaugh, 03 Jan 2011 - My grandmother "Anna Albertine Rosenbaugh", was a seamstress in a circus around 1920's and she met my grandfather on a tour that came to Harriston, Ontario Canada. Just wondering if anyone would have any information on her? Jim, Ontario, Canada. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3566. Charles Herman, aerial team, 31 Dec 2010 - Hi, I’m interested in learning about an aerial team, I thought it was two brothers, Charles Herman & possibly Walter Herman. Late 1800’s or early 1900’s – I found reference to 5 Hermans with Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus but cannot find any more detail. I also found a reference to Herman Brother performing with the Orin Coppele King 1884. Not sure if they are related. I’m the granddaughter of Charlie W Herman – he was dropped by his partner while performing on the trapeze and broke both wrists, when they set the wrist, he was not able to perform any more. He became a blacksmith and moved to Denver, where he married Emma Mayes. Charlie was born in 1865 in Massachusetts. If you have any information on the aerial group, please contact me. Elaine. A HREF="mailto:circushistory@gmail.com?subject=3566. Charles Herman, aerial team">Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3565. Stanley and Hoxiel’s Wild West, 31 Dec 2010 - I am looking for any information on “Stanley and Hoxiel’s Congress of Rough Riders and Wild West Show” a show which exhibited on the west coast and was a featured attraction at the opening of Los Angeles’ “Luna Park” amusement park in June of 1911 (named after Luna Park at Coney Island). Although Parkinson’s “Directory of American Circuses” does not mention “Stanley and Hoxiel’s” is does make note of a “Stanley Bros Circus” which operated in 1919 under the ownership of Stanley Clyde Olinger (who also operated Olinger Bros from 1927 to 1934). I’m trying to find ANY background on “Stanley and Hoxiel’s” – and of course whether there is any connection between Olinger’s circus of 1919 and the wild west show of a few years prior. Chris Berry, email: circusposters@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3564. Jumbo the Elephant, 31 Dec 2010 - I have four different photographs of the dead Jumbo that were taken the day after his death on September 15,1885. At least three photographers are known. T.H. Scott, James Hopkins and W.E.Lindop. I also have a Cabinet photo stamped Eisenmann (I assume he must have purchased a negative or copied a photo). The best known of the photographs is the one with the crowd gathered around the body with a steam engine in the background (this was not the engine that killed Jumbo). I find it hard to believe that no one ever identified all those in the photo but no key has surfaced. Message 2084 id's some. I have about ten others. All the best in 2011. Thanks. Steve Peters, St. Thomas, ON, Canada. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
The two showmen present in the most common print were Jumbo's long time keeper, Matthew Scott, positioned ahead of the beast's forelegs, and James L. Hutchinson, the show manager, who is standing between the legs. Hutchinson represented the interests of the circus, Scott had no other duty on the show subsequent to Jumbo's death and was presumably permitted to grieve his loss. There was little reason for anyone else from the show to remain at the scene or in the city; they were needed to continue normal circus operations. Thus, the identification of the remaining people is likely one of finding portraits of the locals and Grand Trunk railroad personnel [division manager, trainmaster, freight agent, road foreman of engines, etc., or their 1885 equivalents] and comparing them to people in the images. Fred Dahlinger, Curator of Circus History, Circus Museum, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3563. Hilton Sisters, 30 Dec 2010 - I am looking for anyone that might have personal knowledge of the Hilton Sisters, photographs, papers, etc. Leslie Zemeckis. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3562. Emma Pearly, snake charmer, 29 Dec 2010 - I'm a fan and novice collector of carnival images. When they are identified, I like to know whatever history I can. I purchased an aged (1900-10 I'd guess) cabinet photo by J.J. Ginther in Buffalo of a very uneasy snake charmer woman. She is dressed late victorian and either she or the photographer were amateurs - the snake is a mess around her and she looks terrified. Identified in faint pencil on the reverse "Miss Emma Pearley (Pearly)" I wondered if anyone out there had heard of her or knew what circus she worked with. I appreciate everyones time, thanks so much, Natalie. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3561. Robert Cline, elephant trainer, 28 Dec 2010 - I am looking for any information for my Great-Uncle. Robert Cline who was the elephant trainer for King Brothers Circus in the late 70's. I believe he also was with Cole-Beatty at one time. This is NOT the Robert Cline on the circus history board (of that I am certain). I can remember the names of three of his elephants as Conti, Ola and Jackie I think. I was told he ran away from home and joined the circus at the age of 14 (in the 40's I believe). Any information would be appreciated. Thank you. Amy Kinney. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3560. Lafe Lewman Bulldogging, Auto, 22 Dec 2010 - My name is Nikkie Cooper, I am the curator at the local history museum in Fort Morgan, Colorado. I have a photo in the collection that is titled “Lafe Lewman bulldogging from auto” “by Thomas”- the photo is taken in a rodeo arena in front of a large covered grandstand at the Morgan County Fairground in Fort Morgan. On the back of the image is written “Movies being taken from car and right after this pic taken, car ran over bulldogger Lafe Lewman.” I am trying to determine if the footage from this rodeo exists. If anyone has can help point me in a direction for further research I would appreciate it. I can be reached via email at research@cityoffortmorgan.com. Thank you for your help, Nikkie. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Wanted!!! more circuses and more members of one of the greatest organizations in North America . . . CHS Membership 3559. Merry Christmas to All!, 19 Dec 2010 - I wanted to wish You and Yours a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Joseph Atterbury. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3558. Thayer's Annals, 18 Dec 2010 - My name is Greta Hsu, and I am a researcher at the University of California, Davis. I am looking for volume 3 of Stuart Thayer's Annals of the American Circus (1848-1860), Seattle, WA: Dauven & Thayer. Please let me know if you are interested in selling (or loaning) a copy of this volume. Thank you. 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 3557. Book, "Tent to Tent", 18 Dec 2010 - Can you please tell me when the book by Marian Matyn, "Tent to Tent, Circus history in the Great Lakes" [will be published]. Thank you for your time, Andy Jackson. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3556. Jay Gould Circus, 16 Dec 2010 - My name is Jackie Henin and I am a Great Granddaughter of Jay Gould, who had Jay Gould’s Million Dollar circus. I am trying to gather any history, data, photos etc. on his circus. Any information anyone would be willing to share would be greatly appreciated. Jackie@travelsbydesign.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3555. Acts, White City Pleasure Grounds 1920, 15 Dec 2010 - Hi, I'm researching something for a piece of non-fiction writing. Nothing has come up through online searches, but I'm hoping that sending you an email may throw up more information. Essentially I am looking for information about the opening weekend events for a place that existed in Kingston-upon-Hull (United Kingdom) for around 20 years. It was called the White City Pleasure Grounds and the opening day was 22nd May 1920. I have names of the artists that took part in the opening night (and brief descriptions of their acts), but I am struggling to understand what these acts consisted of. I'm sure you'll appreciate, it's difficult to write about something that you cannot picture or fully understand. So here are the different performers that I have found out about, and if you could help me out by shedding light on what these acts may have been like, or even any additional information I have not come across before, I would really appreciate it.
Hot air balloon ascents and parachute descents organised by Prof. Newell and Miss Elsie Haben;
I know this may be a long shot, but anything you can find would be very welcome. If you need any further information, just let me know. Thank you, Matthew Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Some acts were represented by agents who published illustrated catalogues. These sometimes contain illustrated representations of the acts, showing them in various poses. You might also check available on-line film coverage of vintage acts, in circuses and on stage in clubs, theaters and the variety stage, as well as outdoor. Still photography that was used for publicity often captured performers frozen in position during the course of their act. If you haven't already checked, issues of the British show trade journal "The World's Fair" might prove useful. Jumper Books [on-line] and others deal with volumes pertaining to British amusement parks. You might look into them as such acts often moved from one site to another. You might also contact the fairground archives at Sheffield University, which has extensive holdings. Fred Dahlinger
3554. Greta Frisk, 14 Dec 2010 - Danish born trapeze star Greta Frisk came to USA in 1952 or 1953. She spend the first two seasons with Ringling and later with various other circuses, including Shrine circuses. For several years in the 60s she was with Beatty Cole together with her husband bike act 6 Frielanis. Her last season with Beatty Cole was probably 1968. She passes away in 2000 or 2001. I have heard that she once has a dramatic fall from her trapeze but her husband saved her life by catching her. Do any of you have details in this incident. Ole Simonsen, www.circus-dk.dk Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
MIAMI. Fla. (AP) - As 2,000 spectators gasped, trapeze performer Greta Frisk plunged 40 feet—straight into the arms of her husband who raced to the scene. "I caught you," Fritz Frisk told his wife, who sprang from a trapeze in a flip-around motion but failed to grasp the bar after she had turned. Bandsmen stopped playing, and the crowd gave the couple an ovation. Circus manager John Pugh said the couple probably would have medical checkups today. Neither appeared seriously hurt from the fall, which happened Sunday night at the Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros. Circus. Frisk has a bicycle act with the circus. - Daily Times (Salisbury, Maryland) November 2, 1965. MIAMI, Fla. (AP)—A high act trapeze performer was caught by her husband Sunday night when she fell 40 feet in the center ring of the Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros, circus before 2,000 spectators. Neither was reported injured seriously. Greta Frisk, an attractive blonde, sprang from the trapeze in a flip-around motion. She grasped for the bar, touched it and fell. There was no safety net. Her husband Fritz raced forward, arms extended. The impact sent them sprawling. - Independent (Long Beach, California), November 1, 1965, p. 1. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3553. Emil Popescu, 14 Dec 2010 - I worked in the circus with Emil Popescu in South Africa, Sweden, Finland and Norway. I reside in Belgium now. I have lost contact and am trying to reach him. Can you help? Thanks and kind regards, Culot Christine. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3552. Mills Bros. Circus, 13 Dec 2010 - My girlfriend Susan Brazaskas ( not sure of spelling) was a dear friend of mine in elementary school. Her father Felix ran the Mills Brothers Circus. They were from England. The sister's name was Mary. Anyone know what happened to them? Susan. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3551. Coney Island's Dreamland Somalis, 10 Dec 2010 - Greetings to all, I am researching about a group of African side show performers (may be Somalis from the port of Djibouti) who were brought to Coney Island's Dreamland by Samuel Gumpertz probably around 1913 or 14? May I, therefore, please have help of the message board in locating any information or records in any form about the history behind this group or Samuel Gumpertz and his travels to Africa as Dreamland official agent? Your help is highly appreciated. Bo. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
The best piece I've seen on Gumpertz's early years was published in an early 1930s issue of "Greater Show World," which is not readily available. Fortunately, it was reprinted in its totality, but without a credit to its original source, in "Bandwagon," 24, 3, page 31. New York Public Library has a file of "GSW" issues that could be checked for the exact source. Gumpertz was once featured on the cover of that journal. Following earlier activities in show business, Gumpertz came out of the St. Louis amusement park trade and went to work under Senator William H. Reynolds when the latter formed Dreamland at Coney Island for 1904. It was a "me too" response to the unprecedented financial success of Luna Park in 1903. Luna set off a boom in amusement park construction across the nation, and to a degree overseas. The other Dreamland principal was a New York area brewer named Joseph Huber. A prominent concessionaire, builder and operator of "Creation" at the park was Thomas Ryan of Philadelphia, who committed suicide in 1912. Others likely invested monies in various shows, rides, etc., at Dreamland, which was a common practice to minimize owner capital. Issues of "Billboard" and "New York Clipper" in late 1903 to early 1904 document the origin and opening of Dreamland. More can also be found in Pilot and Ranson's "Sodom by the Sea" [pages 160-173] and Edo McCullough's book "Good Old Coney Island." There is an abundance of further coverage in local newspapers, the "New York Times," "Brooklyn Daily Eagle," etc. The property was assembled from two or more parcels, with politically-connected Reynolds getting the local authorities to vacate a street so that the pieces could be made into one contiguous site. Land control, by ownership, leases and legal maneuvering, then as now, has been the single most important issue in the existence of Coney Island. Reynolds really kept Gumpertz under his thumb, according to one period account, not allowing him the authority to so much as issue a complimentary pass to the park [1906]. There's an image of Gumpertz and an his identification as one of the most experienced men in the park trade, already in 1909 [which is a definitional matter]: http://books.google.com/books?id=mA3ZAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA224&dq=%22samuel+w.+gumpertz%22 &hl=en&ei=SbqcTOb4HoGgnwehmamSDQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6&ved=0CDoQ6AEwBQ#v= onepage&q=%22samuel%20w.%20gumpertz%22&f=false There are period portraits of Gumpertz in "Billboard," March 20, 1909, page 13, and of Reynolds in the same journal, the June 9, 1906 issue, page 24. Gumpertz was featured on the cover of "Billboard" twice, on June 18, 1910 and again December 27, 1913. By then he was presumably no longer in Reynolds' shadow. Following the May 27, 1911 destruction of Dreamland by fire, Gumpertz and associate William Greve bought and controlled the Dreamland real estate and became dominant players in Coney Island land use. He served as receiver for the Brighton Beach race track in 1913: http://query.nytimes.com/gst/abstract.html?res=FB0616FC3C5B13738DDDAB0A94DB405B838DF1D3. I would not be surprised to learn that he may have participated in the "resolution" of other major properties in the West Brighton and Brighton Beach areas. The Eden Musee came into Gumpertz's possession. He served as President of the Coney Island Board of Trade in 1922, and probably in other years, too. http://query.nytimes.com/gst/abstract.html?res=FB0D16FA39551A738DDDA00994DE405B828EF1D3. Gumpertz was involved with the big Half Moon Hotel on Coney Island [1927]. Gumpertz operated the Dreamland Circus Side Show and between that and earlier Dreamland attraction hirings [both circus acts and sideshow personalities] he likely developed his friendship with John Ringling. David C. Weeks' book "Ringling, the Florida Years, 1911-1936," has material about the Ringling-Gumpertz friendship and association [pages 84-87 and more]. He errs in crediting Gumpertz with directly building Dreamland; Reynolds et al accomplished it. The Sarasota newspapers will have material about Gumpertz's local investments, his ascendancy to the circus management, etc. He invested in Sarasota real estate. His personal residence there has been demolished, but is documented in photography. It is possible that the 1929 Depression caused a downturn in Gumpertz's local Coney Island fortunes, possibly suggesting that his movement into the circus field was provoked by opportunity and inside knowledge of Ringling's finances and that of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Shows. Much of Gumpertz's activity as an investor, personally or in a partnership known as Allied Owners, and possibly the Prudence Co., Inc., is likely unknown, save for documentation in legal documents. These firms became involved in the financing of John Ringling's personal debt and also that of the RBBB Combined Shows, in a rather complex series of arrangements. Gumpertz was profiled in "New Yorker," May 6, 1933, page 29 [and perhaps more pages]. Henry North's book "Circus Kings," chapter XIV, is titled "The Man from 'Dreamland,'" which is all about Gumpertz's involvement with John Ringling and the circus. Gumpertz had become a close personal friend of John Ringling and it appears that he became part of the plan conceived by John M. Kelley, William Greve, Edith Ringling and Aubrey Ringling to unseat John Ringling, incorporate the circus and change leadership by installing Gumpertz in charge. His involvement may have been driven in part by his desire to protect his investment, but there may have been other personal considerations by becoming the head of the world's largest circus enterprise. Gumpertz, contrary to popular thought, never held an outright, personal ownership interest in RBBB and was strictly a hired vice-president and general manager. His financial investment would have been via his participation in the debt-holding firms. He was not a member of the RBBB, Inc. board governing the circus. North's account is somewhat biased against Gumpertz, who replaced his uncle as de facto head of the Ringling family circus operation, but is not an outright condemnation of him. Joseph T. Bradbury wrote a series of articles about the Gumpertz-managed seasons of RBBB Combined Circus [a Gumpertz-mandated name change] for "White Tops," covering 1933-1937 [issues 47-6 to 48-3]. They describe in detail his circus activities during those years. While some have offered the opinion that the show property deteriorated under Gumpertz, Bradbury offers explanation to the contrary. Gumpertz also continued the operation of the RBBB-owned Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus through 1935 and leased it to others for 1937-1938; and continued to operate the RBBB-owned Al G. Barnes circus through 1937. However, other than some highly-billed sideshow attractions, Gumpertz did not take flagship RBBB forward, progressively, as reflected in the immediate activities taken by John Ringling North in 1938 and thereafter. Dexter Fellows book "This Way to the Big Show "includes a studio portrait of Gumpertz and coverage of some of his aggrandized sideshow attractions. Following Gumpertz's departure from the circus little was heard about him. In at least 1942 and 1945 he figured into George Hamid's ownership of the Steel Pier in Atlantic City, NJ, as a manager. http://books.google.com/books?id=uhEEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PT47&dq=%22samuel+w.+gumpertz%22 &hl=en&ei=OrycTLjwJofMnAeZ1J2fDQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved= 0CC0Q6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=%22samuel%20w.%20gumpertz%22&f=false Circus World Museum has a modest sampling of Samuel W. Gumpertz personal papers, a collection that sheds little light on his show-related activities. I believe that it was assembled during his later life in Sarasota, and deals more with personal matters. I recall newspaper clippings and perhaps one or more scrapbooks [scrapbook numbers 9 and 11, by one note]. They surely also have some photos of him. He was married twice and had no children. I have encountered several different years for his birth. Gumpertz died on June 22, 1952. One obituary is in "Billboard": http://books.google.com/books?id=lh4EAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA56&dq=%22samuel+w.+gumpertz%22 &hl=en&ei=SbqcTOb4HoGgnwehmamSDQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CC0Q6AEwAg#v= onepage&q=%22samuel%20w.%20gumpertz%22&f=false Fred Dahlinger, Curator of Circus History, Circus Museum, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
3550. Bruno Family, high wire, 10 Dec 2010 - I am looking for information on a high wire act called The Bruno Family back in 1948 to 1953. Bruno Trostl is the brother of Arthur Trostl - The great Arturo - How brought them over from Austria in 1948. Thank you Bob - rwdowd@verizon.net. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3549. William Henry Hough, 08 Dec 2010 - I am seeking information on the early career of William Henry Hough, b. 1818 Potsdam, NY, d. 1903 Detroit, MI. According to Olympians of the Sawdust Circle, Hough was business manager, Robinson & Lake, 1864-65; agent and business manager, John Robinson’s, 1864-68; announced retirement, February 1868; nevertheless, agent James M. French’s, 1869; agent, P. T. Barnum’s, 1872-73; press agent, VanAmburgh’s, 1879-80. It appears that in the mid-1850s he was married in Chicago to the actress Lottie Hough, who divorced him in 1863. Subsequently he moved to Detroit where he and his brother Garey collaborated in a number of theatrical enterprises. In a 1877 interview, Hough claimed to have had a show that traveled by railroad as early as 1843. It was known as "Hough's Great Original Itinerandum" tent show. He said that in 1843 he was arrested and fined in Albion MI for lack of a permit. (REMINISCENCES Detroit Free Press (1858-1922); May 29, 1877) This is very early for a show to be traveling by railroad and I have been unable to confirm this statement in the standard histories. I am also very curious about how Hough got from being the son of a Potsdam farmer to his colorful career, spanning according to press stories "everything from grand opera to performing dogs. Also, I would like to get some primary source documentation of his marriage to Lottie (Fowler) Hough. Any information greatly appreciated; please email to jbarry6899@aol.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3548. Mike Wessinger, 07 Dec 2010 - I am looking for information concerning the Hagenbach Circus and Mike Wessinger of Peru, Indiana. He was supposed to be in charge of the circus properties and was circus boss. I am interested in knowing when he worked for this circus. When was the Hagenbach circus in business? When did Mike Wessinger work there? Thank you, Leslie A. Vollnogle, Curator of Collections, Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Wanted!!! more circuses and more members of one of the greatest organizations in North America . . . CHS Membership 3547. Circus cookhouse, 06 Dec 2010 - Where would I find the history of the cookhouse, origination, etc. Marilyn. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3546. Circus Ciniselli, 06 Dec 2010 - currently I am undertaking a scientific research work about the Italian Painter and Poet Salvator Rosa (1615-1673). The special field is actually: Salvator Rosa on stage in the 19th and 20th century. Between the material I found until yet there is a: Grosse equestrische Balletpantomime named: Napoli oder Salvator Rosa und die Banditenfuerstin, which was performed 1881 in Riga by Andrea Ciniselli. The plot I received from Derra de Moroda Archiv, Salzburg. But this is the only information I got. Therefore I am seeking for further sources about this Ballet and I ask you for help. Especially I am looking for the numbers and places of performances, illustrations and contemporary reports due to this ballet. I would be very grateful if you could support my studies. Thank you very much for help in advance and I am looking forward to hearing from you. Sincerely Yours, Walter Regel, Universitaet Freiburg, Germany. 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 3545. Phil Escalante, 28 Nov 2010 - I am looking for information on what seasons wire walker Phil Escalante was with Cole Bros. I suspect it may have been during the period that the show was owned by Arthur Wirtz. Chris Berry. Email: circusposters@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3544. Perley Silloway, 01 Dec 2010 - Perley M. Silloway was an early member of CHS (1940) and CFA (1928). He authored interesting and well-written articles on the circus for White Tops, Billboard and Bandwagon. His obituaries stated that he left Illinois in 1898 to become a school principal in Montana; but he returned to Illinois circa 1910, when he managed a motion picture show and was the owner of a one-ring circus that traveled in Illinois until circa 1919. I haven't been able to find the name of the circus he owned or any information on it. None of the articles he wrote that I've seen mention that he owned a circus. I've checked Sturtevant and Parkinson, etc. with no result. I haven't checked with the library at Circus World Museum. Anyone have a lead on Silloway's circus or if he actually owned a circus? Judy Griffin. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3543. Vicki Muralli, 28 Nov 2010 - Violet E. (Vicki) Muralli - RRBB 1943 - 1946. My mother was a member of the Reynolds and Donegan Skaters which joined the RRBB Circus in 1943. From 1944-46 she was a member of the accounting/general offices in Sarasota, FL. My mother was born in 1926 and left home in 1940 at 14. She died in 1965 when I was only 14. There are only some pictures to even give me a clue as to whom she was and no living relatives since her death. She married my father, Robert A Davis, in October, 1946, in Sarasota, FL. Annette Reffalt, Perkinston, MS. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3542. Hubert Castle, 27 Nov 2010 - My name is Edward Smith, a grandson of Hubert Castle, aka Hal Smith. Please let know if you have any posters, photos, or films of him? Thanks, Ed Smith. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3541. Circus memorabilia gift, 26 Nov 2010 - I am trying to find a source to buy some authentic circus memorabilia for my wife for a Christmas present. Do you have any sources you could put me in contact with? It would be greatly appreciated! Thanks so much. Jan. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
You can check out some of the better auction houses such as Potter and Potter in Chicago which will be having a large Circus Poster auction in March. You can scan through Overstock.com or Amazon.com for new circus related items such as books, train sets, or DVDs and Music CDs. There are privately operated websites that have circus items for sale as well. Explore the internet from the leisure of your home to start an amzing discovery into what is available of Circus memorabilia. You can also Join the Circus Historical Society (the application link is on the home page) and come to the 2011 Convention that's going to be held in Cincinnati. We have a huge auction of circus items that are donated with all proceeds helping the CHS. Last year had numerous signed checks by the Ringling Bros. some really rare circus letterheads and turn of the century newspaper advertisements. I place the auction items in a rarer class than that found on the internet and well worth the time and money spent on hard to find items at the auction. I hope this helps. Bob Cline
3540. Circus, UK/Ireland 1970s, 25 Nov 2010 - My name is Joanna and I am writing to you from Ireland. I am looking a person who may have a keen knowledge and historic information of circuses in UK and Ireland in the 1970's and hopefully you can direct me to such person. I came across your email on the internet. I am pacifically looking for information regarding a circus that took place in 1978 in Knowsely (near Liverpool, UK), possibly named Belle Vue Circus, that may of gone on fire. There is a witness sighting at the time that a young child died at the fire and was unidentified and subsequently buried. I may believe that this is this child is a missing person and the family are still looking for her. All I need to know to know is was there such a Circus, such a fire and if this Circus may of ever visited Ireland/ Northern Ireland in the 1970's? I know this is a lot of information from a stranger but I hope you can help and you may be aware that this is a sensitive and important subject. Thanks you so much, Joanna Hickey. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3539. Circus Renz, 24 Nov 2010 - Hi, I wonder if you can help me. My great grandfather Alfred Morton and his brother William Morton worked in Hamburg from about the 1840s to the 1870s making gas chandeliers for Circus Renz. I am wondering if you can tell me anything about this circus. Also, I have been told that in the 1870/80s there was a horse rider in Circus Renz called James Morton and am wondering whether this is my great grandfather's eldest child who was born in Hamburg in 1851/2. Any help you can give me would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Xanthe Duffill. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3538. Roy Murphy, 23 Nov 2010 - I am searching for any photo of Roy Murphy, trick cyclist – also performed with "The Wheelers" throughout Australia and the world. Thank you, Suzanne. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3537. John Ringling at White House, 22 Nov 2010 - John Ringling at White House. On May 14, 1925, during the annual appearance of the Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey circus in Washington DC, John Ringling visited the White House. I am looking for any information on that visit. What was the purpose of the meeting? Did he actually meet with President Coolidge during that visit? Chris Berry, email: circusposters@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
May 14, 1925 was also a day on which RBBB played Washington, D. C., which was an annual event. Mrs. Coolidge attended with Mrs. Sargent, coming early and remaining to the end [per the New York Times], but the president apparently did not view the show. The November 29, 1947 issue of "Billboard," pages 71 and 110, has an article about occupants of the Oval Office and the First Ladies that took interest in the circus. Mrs. Coolidge looms large in the discussion as an ardent circus fan of the first order. Perhaps John well knew that pleasing the First Lady would have been a means to curry favor with her husband? There's a Pete Mardo photo showing Coolidge and Ringling in the circus audience. Perhaps John hosted the president and his spouse, from home to circus and return, in the days before a president's movements were much more covert? Coolidge and wife, with the daughter of the White House physician in tow, also visited RBBB in 1928. Several photos exist portraying a smiling John Ringling, as a genial host, in affable conversation with Coolidge, his wife across the aisle. In 1925-1926 Ringling was continuing to nurture his major Florida investments. The boom was on the verge of going bust and several factors were hampering the local economy. Ringling probably visited Coolidge to stimulate interest in reviving the state's economy, as John did, to a degree, by relocating the RBBB winter quarters to Sarasota a couple years later. His interests were then broader than the circus, in FL real estate, the oil patch, railroads and so on. The index to David Weeks's book, "Ringling, The Florida Years," lists a Ringling-Coolidge meeting, but fails to deliver in the text [page 106 is given], as far as I could discern. Other material therein does provide a context for Ringling's actions. The Sarasota papers might provide coverage of any Coolidge-Ringling meeting. Fred Dahlinger
3536. White Tops Article "Come Hell or Come High Water", 22 Nov 2010 - My name is LJ Jackson. I'm having trouble finding an article from the 1942, volume 15, #9-10, page 15 version of The White Tops Magazine. Online checks of them for sale brought nothing, and no circus museums/libraries are near me. Any additional info about the author, Dorothy Zeeryp, would be appreciated. I understand she was well known at Ringling Brothers, as a friend, not employee. Thank you. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Wanted!!! more circuses and more members of one of the greatest organizations in North America . . . 3535. Calliopes, 18 Nov 2010 - Any leads please on calliope people or parts please? We are looking to build one in Austin Tx. Thanks, Samantha. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3534. Lillian Leitzel, 18 Nov 2010 - Dear friends. My name is Roy Maloy, I am in Australia and a full time, dual world record holding circus artist. I am currently researching my third circus book and am looking for anyone who happens to have original photographs or articles relating to Lillian Leitzel. In particular - I am looking for information regarding Lillian in or around 1924. If you happen to know anyone who EVER met her or have ANY form of story that has been handed down about Lillian I would LOVE to hear from you. roy@roymaloy.com, Roy Maloy. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3533. Foley & Burk Circus, 18 Nov 2010 - I'm looking for any history on the Foley & Burk Circus/Carnival. I'm guessing it was primarily in the Western U.S. and specifically Southern California but not sure. Thanks for any help or info, Joseph Schomer, Santa Barbara, CA. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3532. Betty Pasco, 16 Nov 2010 - I have a question for somebody. I am the nephew of the late Betty Pasco. I have so much old circus programs and some of her old outfits that she would wear. I would like to find out if there is a museum or someplace that might be interested in putting it on display. If so you can contact me at kpasco@colpac,com. Thanks, Ken Pasco. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3531. African girl, elephants, 16 Nov 2010 - I am working on writing a musical about the circus in Indiana during the winter at the turn of the century (1898-1900). One of my collaborators is interested in playing with the idea of having a young African girl that works with a gruff elephant handler to care for the animals. Through most of my research, I have not found any information regarding whether this would be something that would be acceptable at the time. With her being of African descent and a woman in that time period, I find that to be a little historically inaccurate for something that we want to be based in history. Do you have any information on historical cases similar to this or know if there were any reported instances where someone like this existed? Any help would be appreciated! Thanks so much, Christopher. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3530. American Beauties, Flying Saturns, 16 Nov 2010 - Hi, I am trying to find out about The American Beauties and the Flying Saturns a group of women on poles and aerial during the 1940's. They where with the Clyde Beatty Circus. tesseitdr. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3529. Robert Frank or Frances Thompson, 16 Nov 2010 - I have pictures of my Great Uncle Frank riding a bike with his wife in a basket underneath him over some place in San Fran. I believe his full name was Robert Frank or Frances Thompson. My Aunt told me he used to be partnered with the Ringling Brothers and sold his part to Barnum Bailey. Do you have any information on him at all? He would have been born around 1875-85 in central Ontario and was a tightrope exhibitionist. He was also a balloonist and was once lost in the deserts of California for a week, surviving by eating grass. He apparently did a lot of his high wire act during the first WW wearing an army uniform. That is all the info I have, I am looking for anything else. Terry Thompson. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3528. William & Dottie Frey, 15 Nov 2010 - My name is Sally Totton. My grandfather and his second wife were Concessioneer's. They lived in Florida, Gibsonton, exactly. My grandfather was William H. Frey, from Pennsylvania and his wife was Dottie Frey, also from Pennsylvania. William passed away in 1976 and Dottie in 1987. Does anyone recall these two people? I would love some information on them, what they did exactly, what circus they worked. If someone would have a photo, that would just make my day. I never met my grandfather so I am curious to learn as much about him as I can. Thank you, Sally Totton, Pennsylvania. 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 3527. Sangers Circus, 15 Nov 2010 - Sangers Circus appeared in Hastings during August 1864. I would like to know who was actually working for them at the time. Where can I find a list of names of those on the pay roll? Sheila. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3526. Rhinoceros "Old Put", 14 Nov 2010 - Would anyone have any information as to what may have became of the skull of the famous performing Rhinoceros "Old Put" of the Dan Rice circus? Reportely the Rhino had drowned in the Mississippi River, when its cage fell overboard into the river when Dan Rice's steamboat collided with another Steamboat near a bend in the river about 19 miles South of La Crosse Wis. A newspaper article dated July 1870,mentions that a Rhinoceros skull was fished out of the river near that location that Summer. Old Put had been a Great One-Horned Indian Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis). Was the skull found in the Mississippi River sold to a private collection or did it become part of a museum's collection? Thank you. Kenton C. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3525. Circus train, Sioux City IA, 13 Nov 2010 - My name is Karen Baker of Spirit Lake, IA. I would like to know when the last circus train was in Sioux City, IA. I think it might have been around 1952. I don't know if it was the Ringling Brothers or Clyde Beatty Circus. My e-mail address is birders2@mchsi.com. Thanks for your help. Karen Baker. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3524. Rope walking history, 12 Nov 2010 - I have a question on circus history in general. Does someone know when wire rope (rope made of metal wire) was introduced in rope walking history instead of cotton or other materials, whichever it was tightrope or slack rope? I assume it was 1900s, possibly around 1910. Your insight would be very much appreciated. Mitsunobu Matsuyama, Yokohama. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3523. Childhood friends, 12 Nov 2010 - I'm trying to reconnect with a couple of childhood friends, twin girls, one named Linda. Their parents traveled with "the circus" and the girls spent summers with their grandmother in WV. Grandmother's name was Lulu Theis, and I assume she was the maternal grandmother, though I'm not certain. Don't know the name of the circus, but I thought it traveled in the East/south-east part of the US. We were friends in mid-1950's-early '60's - we were all probably 10-14 years old. Going way out on a limb, I know, but I've been wondering about these friends and would appreciate any tips offered. Jak. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3522. Adam Forepaugh, Forepaugh Circus, 08 Nov 2010 - Hello, I am currently writing a book about my relative Adam Forepaugh and the Forepaugh Circus. I have been finding a lot of information from newspapers, but I am looking for anything anybody would be willing to tell me or any digital scans you may have to expand my sources and make my book better. I am mostly concentration on 1865-1890. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you, catskillmountainwriter@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3521. John Lincoln, Charles Ross, 08 Nov 2010 - My ancestor came to England with the circus in 1896 with the Barnum/Bailey circus. He was rumoured to be a clown//tightrope walker. Does anyone have any names for him. He may be John Lincoln or Charles Ross. Do the names John Lincoln of Charles Ross mean anything to anyone? Jane. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3520. Pallenberg bears, Elena, 07 Nov 2010 - Were there any posters made concerning Pallenberg or Elena? I believe Pallenberg trained bears and Elena rode horses. Any information will be appreciated. Thanks. My name is Lila Holly and I live in Oklahoma. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3519. Flying Arbors, 07 Nov 2010 - My Aunt Julia and Uncle Bud Asher, also daughter Mildred Asher, were performers, they did most aerial and some horse tricks. They were known as the Flying Arbors. Any info or pictures would be appreciated. Thank you! Dena Miller. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3518. RBBB 1971, 06 Nov 2010 - Which RBBB Unit played: Jan. 13, 1971 at Bayfront Center Arena in St. Petersburg, FL. Thanks, mbassetti@usa.net. 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 3517. Dora E. Start, 06 Nov 2010 - This is a long shot. My great grandmother was in a circus in the mid-1900s - traveled throughout the midwest on a train - thru Chicago - out of Advance, Missouri. Name was Dora E Start (Jackson) had a little girl red haired name Florence, Cousin Emma Mae Macy. She did snake charming stuff. That's all I know. Anyone know of a list of circuses around between 1890-1920? Thanks. Vicki Walker. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3516. Book, animal training, 03 Nov 2010 - I am looking for a book written in the early 1900's. It was written for Ringling Bros. and had a yellow cover. The title of the book was something like, "Kinder Techniques for Training Circus Animals." Information in the book included kinder techniques using food and body ques. I hope you might be able to help me find this out of print book. A dear friend of mine read it when he was just a young boy, he works with animals and trains their owners to work with them. I would like to find this book as a gift to my friend. Thank you very much in advance for your help. Debra Smith. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3515. Modoc's tusks, 03 Nov 2010 - Greetings! I have been reading MODOC. The author states in the book that MODOC had tusks, but the pictures in the book show an elephant without tusk even though the author says the pictures are some in her later life. Can you assist with this discrepancy? Jann, Helotes, Texas. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3514. George Robinson, 02 Nov 2010 - Has anyone any info on George Robinson. I think he was a strongman called Little Samson. He was from England around 1920/1930. Thanks for your help. c.friel. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3513. Greek word, sideshow, 31 Oct 2010 - What Greek word originally refered to a circus side show person who bit the heads off chickens and snakes? Eastmanmarcy. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3512. 1st female clown, Beatty-Cole, 31 Oct 2010 - Hello, Could anyone tell me who the first female clown was on Clyde Beatty Cole Bros. Circus. Thank you, Nancy. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3511. Dalebeanie - Circus Trunk, 31 Oct 2010 - My grandfather's stage name was "Dalbeanie", he was a balancing artist and later a clown. He performed with Ringling Brothers in the 50's, and other circuses before that. He joined the circus as a young teenager, leaving his home in Australia. His career spanned the 1890's through the early '50's. He appeared in "The Greatest Show on Earth". (The clown who looks up sadly before Lancaster falls). He retired to Sarasota, Florida, living in the DeSoto Hotel, home to many retired circus performers at the time. I recently inherited his circus trunk, which had not been opened since his death in 1958. I found a Sarasota locksmith who was able to open it. The trunk contained, among other things, a section of a Russell Brothers poster. I'd like to hear from anyone who knows anything about him, and/or knows about any of the other retired performers who stayed at the DeSoto Hotel (Sarasota, Florida) in the '50's. Thank You. drodrig701@aol.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Broken Hill NSW; Hippodrome, Crystal Theatre; Mar-Apr 1907 Adelaide; Tivoli Theatre; Apr 1907 Sydney; National Amphitheatre; May 1907 Wellington NZ; Theatre Royal; Oct 1907 Broken Hill; Hippodrome, Empire Music Hall, See Recreational Ground; Jan-Apr 1908 Perth; Hay Street West, with Fitzgerald Bros Circus, Top of York Street, Nicholson’s; Jun-Jul 1908 Williamstown VIC; Market Reserve, with Fitzgerald Bros Circus; Jan 1909 Brisbane; Theatre Royal; Mar-Apr 1909 Rockhampton QLD; Rockhampton Open Air Theatre-Union Grounds; Apr-May 1909 Sapphire QLD; with Lewis Family; May 1909 Emerald QLD; with Lewis Family; May 1909 Alpha QLD; with Lewis Family; May 1909 Jericho QLD; with Lewis Family; May 1909 Barcaldine QLD; with Lewis Family; May 1909
I have found some newspaper articles that has him returning to Australia to perform from Dec 1922 to May 1923 at these venues:
I have found information that Dalbeanie performed with the following shows in the US: Hagenbeck-Wallace; Russell Bros; Ringling Bros & Barnum & Bailey; King-Cristiani. My great-grandfather, William H. “Dad” Whitlark performed with the Russell Bros Circus from 1929 to 1935. During my research, I ran across the following newspaper articles on Dalbeanie:
Article; Newspaper; Date; Pg; Col
In addition, one of the best articles, entitled “Capt Dalbeanie Rode on Wheel from Australia,” is in columns 5 & 6 of page 2 of the 14 August 1934 edition of the Statesville (NC) Record: “Three score years ago many a country gentleman found pleasure in asking his farm lad to lift himself by his boot-straps. Of course the lad would fail to do it. However that is exactly what Capt. Dalbeanie does twice daily with the Russell Bros. Three Ring Circus which is billed to exhibit in Statesville, Friday, August 17th, afternoon and night.
Diving Venus at Chester; Airship at Coney; Tuesday the Circus: Cincinnati (OH) Post: 29 Jul 1911: 4; 3-8 The Show You Musn't Miss; Baltimore (MD) Sun; 12 Jan 1913; 1; 2 Lyceum; Canton (OH) Repository; 10 Apr 1913; 6; 5 Lyceum; Canton (OH) Repository; 12 Apr 1913; 8; 5 Fox's Theater; Springfield (MA) Daily News; 22 Jan 1914; 15; 6 State St Theatre; Trenton (NJ) Sunday Times Advertiser; 1 Mar 1914; 31; 1-2 State's Strong Bill; Trenton (NJ) Evening Times; 6 Mar 1914; 10; 4 Pathe Weekly Will Be Repeated Today At Star; Ithaca (NY) Daily News; 14 Jan 1915; 3; 3 Lyceum; Canton (OH) Repository; 7 Feb 1915; 21; 3-7 Lyceum; Canton (OH) Repository; 8 Feb 1915; 9; 1 Globe; Philadelphia (PA) Inquirer; 14 Mar 1915; 12; 2 The Good Old Stafford Springs Agricultural Fair & Races; Springfield (MA) Daily Republican; 8 Oct 1916; 7; 7-8 Stafford Springs Agricultural Fair & Races; Springfield (MA) Union; 9 Oct 1916; 2; 4-5 Week-end Bill at Poll's; Springfield (MA) Daily Republican; 20 Sep 1917; 3; 3-4
I ran across the following articles from 1925, 1936 & 1939 on the Great Dalbeanie:
I also ran across the following two articles from 1934 on the Great Dalbeanie while he was performing with the Russell Bros:
I have found further references to the Great Dalbeanie in the following issues of Billboard magazine (by article; date; page; column):
Pat Friedrich, Texas
3510. Renz Circus, Rigolis, 30 Oct 2010 - I am looking for a source of information regarding the "Renz" Circus in Vienna Austria for whom my grandfather was reportedly a ring master in the 30's. Also interested to find info about my mother's acrobatic group "tres Rigolis" who toured the world until the late 50's. Thanks! Evi. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3509. Mildred & Louis Arley, Hunt Bros., 30 Oct 2010 - My father was Louis Arley part of Louis and the Oliver sisters. My mother was Mildred Arley once married to Harry Hunt from the Hunt Brothers circus and my half sisters were from Harry and my mother. They all performed in the Hunt circus and father in Ringling brothers. I have several pictures of them performing and of the Hunt brothers circus and family. My name is Terry Louis Arley my email is arleytl @aol.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3508. Sideshow blog, 29 Oct 2010 - My name is Noel and I am the sole operator of a blog on all things circus and sideshow, HeyRubeCircus.com. I focus on historical trivia and contemporary artists. I am looking to network with others interested in writing on these topics. If you have a personal anecdote, a wealth of historical knowledge, or simply a passion for these issues, please contact me and we can discuss publishing your work on the site. I keep posts short, no longer than 5 paragraphs. Sincerely, Noel aka Ballyhoo Betty, noelbenedetti@gmail.com. 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 3507. Circus Polka: For a Young Elephant, 27 Oct 2010 - Circus Polka: For a Young Elephant, Composer:Igor Stravinsky, Choreographer: George Balanchine. I am writing to inquire if you may know if an archival film/video clip exits of the 1942 performance of Igor Stravinsky's work "Circus Polka: For A Young Elephant" which was written for the Ringling Brothers & Barnum & Bailey Circus. George Balanchine choreographed the ballot which involved the circus's famous elephant group. I am programming this work on a future concert and was hopeful that there may be a video clip which we could show the audience prior to the performance. I have already contacted the Circus World Museum and The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. The Ringling Museum suggested contacting your website. Thank you for your time. I look forward to your reply. Best wishes, Robert D. Jorgensen, Director of University Bands, University of Akron. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3506. Larry Welsh, calliope, 27 Oct 2010 - Looking for any information about a gentleman named Larry Welsh who played the steam Calliope for the King Bro's Circus. Do not know how long he was with them, but know that he retired sometime in 1954 to move back to Saginaw Michigan. Robert Freer. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3505. Phebe Dunn, fat lady, 27 Oct 2010 - I am looking for any information about Phebe J. Dunn, known as the Fat Lady of Elgin, Illinois. I think she was born ca. 1850 - I can't find her in the census, but I've seen CDVs that date from the 1860s. I would also like to know if she was attached to a circus. Thank you! Merry. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3504. Levitt, Brown, Huggins Show, 26 Oct 2010 - Hello, I had a relative that had monkeys in the Levitt, Brown, Huggins Show. I believe it was out of San Francisco, California but they traveled all over the world. I know she was in the show in 1930. They were in San Francisco, at the Mexican border, Vancouver, Canada, Tacoma, Washington, Spokane, Washington, Salem, Oregon. In 1931 they were in Honolulu, Phillipines and Manilla. Any help you can give me would be appreciated. Thanks, Cathy. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 3503. Circus, Birmingham AL, 26 Oct 2010 - I went to a circus in Birmingham, Alabama either winter of 1980 or spring of 1981. Can anyone tell me about that circus? The name and who the owner was? I remember one of the elephants escaped and I saw him running through a field with his handlers chasing him. Please email me at hahubbard@embarqmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3502. Norman D. Brown, 25 Oct 2010 - Looking for my grandfather Norman D Brown who was an accountant for the circus and maybe a clown. Was in Key West FL in 1926, 1931 Springfield Mass, 1927 Detroit. He died in 1933 in Hagerstown Maryland. Thank you for what ever you can give me. Beatrice. Additonal information: My grandfather's name was Norman David Brown, deceased York, Pennsylvania, 1933. He was an accountant for the circus do you have any paper work that he lived? Thank you, his grand daugther Beatrice Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Brown - Norman D., 40, secretary-treasurer of William Glick Shows, died February 10 at York, Pa. He was well known in the show world and was for years with Greater Sheesley Shows and Miller Bros.' Shows in an executive capacity. He is survived by his widow, Jane, and three children. I did not find any mention of Brown's passing in the carnival news columns in Billboard. As for further resources, back issues of "Billboard," available on microfilm through interlibrary loan, would be the best source. It will take some time to scan them. His name would most likely be mentioned in spring issues, when carnivals were taking to the road and they were reviewed, along with publication of staff names. The York newspapers at the time of his passing might contain an obituary notice. I just checked 1934 issues of the "Big Eli News," the publication of the Eli Bridge Company, a maker of Ferris wheels and the Scrambler; it did not mention Brown's passing. Bob Goldsack published an article about the Greater Sheesley Shows in his now defunct "Midway Journal Illustrated," and you might secure a copy of it. A Google search will turn up mention of the article on this website as well as Goldsack's address. Fred Dahlinger Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, FL Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3501. Archives, London, 25 Oct 2010 - Does anyone know if there is a museum or archives relating to early English circuses in London? I am in Australia and visiting London next year, wanted to drop in to browse collections. Thanks. Caroline. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
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