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Circus Historical Society Circus History Message & Discussion BoardSend a Message Current MessagesThis board is provided by the Circus Historical Society, Inc. for posting questions or conducting discussions regarding circus history. Please do not submit attachments or questions regarding the value of circus memorabilia. When you click on Send or Respond to a Message above, your browser will attempt to send your question or comment using its email program. If you prefer to use a different email program to send your message, please address your question to circushistory@gmail.com with Circus History Message in the subject line. Circus History Message must be in the subject line of your email. You must include at least your given name. Your city and state would be appreciated. Your response should include the topic of the message you are replying to in the text of your email, as well as your name. Please read the Guidelines and Disclaimer before emailing your message or response. Your message or response will be posted within one week, unless otherwise indicated above. Read Guidelines and Disclaimer regarding genealogy questions.
Message Archive: Messages 4101-42004200. RBBB, Hutchinson, KS, 22 Apr 2013 - I was a boy of 11 or 12 when I helped set up the RBBB circus in Hutchinson, Kansas in the late 1940s. Can anyone pinpoint the year RBBB came to Hutchinson, KS in the late 1940s, perhaps 1948? Perhaps 1949? I would really appreciate any help on this. Please reply to ceo@agbrazil.com. Thanks, Phil Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4199. Gorilla tent, 22 Apr 2013 - I recently saw a photo of a larger version of the Norman Bel Geddes designed gorilla tent. Like it, it featured external suspension and was labeled as the 1955 RBBB menagerie tent. Does anyone have an information on this? Jim Royal Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4198. German circuses, performers 1912-14, 22 Apr 2013 - I am looking for information on German circuses or performers traveling to England in 1912-1914. I am writing a story on Joseph Pilates who was a gymnast and performer, first in Eastern Germany, then possibly in Blackpool, England. He was in England when WW1 occurred and the British put him, the musicians, and 27,000 men in prison on the Isle of Man for four years. I can be reached at sirigalliano@earthlink.net. Thank you. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4197. John Franklin, 21 Apr 2013 - I am interested in locating info on circuses & Grandad John Franklin that worked for a Circus in Oklahoma etc. from approximately 1914 to 1919. Perhaps 1931 - died in December 1935. The Cemetery in Stamford, Texas states worked for the circus as laborer. My Great Aunt said he was a prize fighter. Described him as a tall dark wavy haired good looking rascal. He evidently spent 10 years at Granite Oklahoma Prison for unknown reasons. I would hope it would be for fighting which I understand was very popular yet illegal. Any ideas, recommendations, information would be appreciated. Regards, Wesley Franklin, Carmel, CA Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
In public records, carnival service is often aligned with the generic word “circus,” which is inaccurate. Yet, that is how the genre was viewed by public record keepers - every traveling showman was a circus man. Given that you know his death took place in December 1935, you could check the obituary columns of the weekly trade magazine “Billboard.” Perhaps they noted his passing and the firms with which he was associated. The journal is now available online, but these listings, key word searching, is only available through about 1922 at this time. Searching through 1923-1935 would still be done the “old fashioned” way, by scanning of hard copies or microfilm. You could also search for him using key word searching in digitized newspapers. Try a search at the online Fulton History website, which includes both newspapers and show trade journals. It will provide a start if he was in the amusement trade by the early 1920s. Fred Dahlinger, Jr., Curator of Circus History, “The Ringling,” John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, FL Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 4196. Pettijohn, 13 Apr 2013 - I was wondering if you have any information on a circus that was either named the Pettijohn/Pettyjohn Circus or the owner’s name was Pettijohn. This circus I believe traveled through Kentucky around 1916-1918. Thanks, Norma Helton Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4195. Magicians, UK, 12 Apr 2013 - Does anyone have any information on any Magicians working with a circus in the UK (or Ireland) just before or during the First World War? I'd be grateful for any leads however small. Kind regards, Paul Welch Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 4194. Kelly-Miller, 1964, 11 Apr 2013 - With the 250th anniversary of the the founding of the town of Plymouth, New Hampshire upon a grant by King George III, local interest is drawn to a June 25, 1964 accident involving a bleachers truck driven by Albert Johnson of Ocean View, Mississippi which struck the front of a dress shop along Main Street at 6:50 A.M. The truck immediately behind carried two elephants who were unloaded and subsequently extricated Mr. Johnson's truck - belonging to the Miller-Kelly Circus (also of Ocean View, MS - fron the front of Mrs. Walker's Dress Shop. News of this accident, which resulted in minor lacerations to Mr. Johnson, traveled worldwide with photos and all entitled, "The Circus That Wasn't Meant To Be." Does the Circus Historical Society have anything on this? Today's Miller-Kelly folks (now in Oklahoma) have no record or recollection of this event of 49 years ago. Once we have finished our research on this we will send to you. Malcolm Taylor, Researcher, Plymouth 250th Celebration, Holderness, NH Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4193. Andrew Wallon, 08 Apr 2013 - My great Uncle worked for the circus in the late 1800s his name was Andrew (Andy) Wallon he lived in Eastbrook, Maine. Do you have any photos of him or paper trail, I would be very pleased to hear from you. We believe he may have jumped over elephants? Sincerely, Marie Lane 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 4192. Selbini act, 04 Apr 2013 - I am trying to find photos and info on the Selbinis Circus Act in UK Birmingh. My Great Grandparents were also trapeze artists. Can you Possibly print an article asking the public of the Walker Family and Sefton if they have any info or pics they can send me please. Regards, Maureen Hunter, maiden name Walker. I was born in Birmingham UK in 1949. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4191. Monte Blue, 03 Apr 2013 - Does anyone have any information on the life of the front man for the Hamid Morton circus, Monte Blue. Blue, previously a film actor, died of a heart attack in Milwaukee, Wisconsin whilst working as a front man in 1963. Any memories from those who might have known him would be greatly appreciated. Blue, allegedly had a season or to with the Zouave troop of the Ringling brothers circus in the first decade of the 1900's. Information required for biographical purposes. Pete Johnson, Kings Lynn, England Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4190. Rissie Moullere, 03 Apr 2013 - Does anyone have any information regarding a performer by the name of 'Rissie Moullere'? She was performing in 1904 but that's all the information I have at the moment. Could anyone help me with this? Thanks! :-) Lynne Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4189. Continental circus, South Africa, 02 Apr 2013 - I would like to find the family of the owner of Continental circus in Pretoria South-Africa. He was JTD Fritz (Dr Fritz) and his wife's name was Anna. The other children was Boet and Pagiel and Tom (Toss). They had a plot with all there animals in Pretoria-North. I'm married to his grandson Hennie. Please if anyone can help me find some of the family. Claudie Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
[translation] Hi Cathrin. I would also just like to say I told Didi (Brother's wife) also gained. I'm just waiting for her response to my message. I also would love to hear from you. Stay well. Greetings, Claudie Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 4188. Ivo, globe of death, 31 Mar 2013 - I was wondering if you could help me? I have lost contact with the "globe of death" rider who was at uncle sams circus around 2001. His name was Ivo & he was from Bulgaria. Just wondering if anybody knows what he is doing now and if he is still part of the circus. Many thanks, Karen Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4187. 1820s, Europe, 30 Mar 2013 - Hello! my name is Jeff from California. I am writing a graphic novel about a traveling circus in 1820s Europe, but I can't seem to find any information about how the circus was lit. I could guess fire, but that would be hazardous, and electricity had not become portable at that point. I am also trying to figure out if they had any other kind of special effects like color gels or spotlights. Also, if anyone could point me in the direction of any in-depth sources for European circus in the late 1700s to 1830s, that would be awesome. Also Also, any info about how a circus such as this could travel during that time period would be interesting too. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Prior to the pavilion, shows that moved about after several week or months-long engagements used temporary amphitheaters, constructed of wood and covered with fabric. There are also instances of more substantial structures made of masonry. These buildings, and not the troupe or performance, were known as the "circus," owing to the identifying ring inside. No troupe was termed a circus until 1824. The most recent study of early circus tents and their proliferation is "The American Circus Tent," an essay in the Bard Graduate Center’s book "The American Circus," edited by Weber, Ames and Wittman. You can find additional supporting information in Stuart Thayer, "Traveling Showmen" and Christian Dupavillon, "La tente et le chapiteau." There is at least one example of a French circus utilizing a constructed amphitheater, meaning a fabric covered framework that was not portable on a daily basis. One of these can be seen in an 1830 painting of the cirque Bouthors. It can be seen in the Dupavillon volume, page 106. You would also do well to seek out another Dupavillon volume, "Architectures du Cirque." I don’t recall that a similar study has yet been accomplished for British show history. There is some later evidence of the use of a "circus fence," meaning a canvas sidewall arrangement, lacking a top piece. This took place in the US in the 1820s-1830s, when the pavilion was still in its formative years. Whether a similar enclosure was ever used on the continent, is unknown to me. These would have been solely fair weather, daylight operations. The color in ring shows would have come from the wardrobe of the performers and some of their props (such as a banner obstruction for the rider), and the clothes of the audience members. There probably was no artificial color from lighting until the days of lime light, which cast an elemental glow from the illumination itself - not a colored shade or enclosure. In terms of lighting, some early tent shows staged performances only during daylight hours, owing to the lack of artificial lighting apparatus. The lighting apparatus available to showmen would have been the same as that available to theater owners and others places of human assembly, whether churches, governmental structures such as courthouses and legislatures, etc. One limitation would have been the ability to suspend the fixtures from the interior structure. The other was to sustain their operation through the duration of the show, and there were others. There are various volumes in print on the topic. Your study ought to be guided by first establishing the type of structure housing the troupe. The study of the European circus is beyond my sphere of immediate knowledge, but it appears to be a study of the proprietors and the structures they erected, since the business was based around metropolitan operations. You might initially look for the volumes by George Speaight and Dominique Jando, as well as the older volumes by Thetard and others. Astley looms large and so will others that followed in his path. Check Altick’s "The Shows of London" and other related amusement volumes for Paris and other cities. Some basic hunting will yield a lot of information. Fred Dahlinger Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, FL
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 4186. Lilibet circus child, 28 Mar 2013 - This message has been removed at the request of the sender.
4185. Unusual billboards, 26 Mar 2013 - I am trying to locate someone who might have some insight into some very unusual billboards that my father found several years ago. They are very old and intricate - no mention of Barnum and Bailey present - and the design is far more intricate than any modern ad stuff I've encountered (I am a graphic designer). There are three billboards and they are not flats; in fact they are built three dimensionally using layers of 3/8"(?) plywood and seem to be very broadly themed towards the Western Hemisphere theme. The font used is similar to Antique Olive, which was created long after Ringling and Barnum merged, but everything else I see points to really, really old stuff. Do you happen to know anyone who might be able to help me understand better what these pieces actually are? Any help is appreciated. Joel 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 4184. Acrobat, Tina, 26 Mar 2013 - Trying to find the last name of a acrobat named Tina for Ringling Bros. in the 1950's. Thank you. Debbie Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4183. Fred Brush Skdmore, 25 Mar 2013 - I believe that my grandmother's brother Fred Brush Skdmore died as a result of being thrown from a horse or chariot in the Barnum and Bailey Circus, early 1900's. His World War draft registration in 1917 states that he worked for Barnum and Bailey. Any leads on this would be appreciated. Thank you for your time. Barbara Rossman Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4182. Elizabeth Conklin, 25 Mar 2013 - Would be very grateful for any information on of an Elizabeth Conklin born circa 1849/50 allegedly linked to Barnham and Bailey circus, an Equestarian or bare back rider. She is located in the North of England (uk) when she had my great grandmother in York, 1881. We have no trace of her birth in the UK and no death cert as she died in a smallpox holocaust aged 38 when her daughter was eight years old. We have no memorabelia or photo of her. My great grandmother claimed that her father was a George Conklin which is on her marriage certificate. It is assumed that she came across from America, I am trying to find some background information in any publications as to her circus life, where she may be likely to have been born, of course if she married a Conklin then her surname would have been different at birth. I have tried the Ancestry.com and related websites to no avail. Many thanks in advance for any suggestions or assistance with this. Sally Gann Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
"CONKLIN, GEORGE. (December 7, 1845-February 25, 1924) Lion tamer and elephant trainer. Learned much about elephants from Stewart Craven. Began as an advance courier for Haight & Chambers. Brother of John and Pete Conklin. Born in Cincinnati. Mabie Bros.’, 1859; Great European, 1865; Haight & Chambers, 1866; O’Brien’s, 1867-1871; zoological director, W. W. Cole’s, 1875, including the Australian tour which left San Francisco, October 23, 1880, and continuing at least through the 1886 season. Head animal trainer for Barnum & Bailey for more than 20 years, including their London engagement. Was attacked many times by his animals and bore the scars to prove it. Loved the animals and the bustle of circus life. Wrote a series of circus articles for the Saturday Evening Post, which were later published in book form by Harper Bros. Retired in 1906, but as his savings diminished, went to work in the post office at Bridgeport, CT. Died in that city." "CONKLIN, LIZZIE. Rider, W. W. Cole’s, 1876" You can also do a search of this website and turn up all sorts of snippets on Conklin. There is a book, 'THE WAYS OF THE CIRCUS' by George Conklin (Harpers, 1921). There is a copy for sale at http://www.amazon.com/Ways-Circus-Memories-Adventures-Conklin/dp/1166531090 and another copy at http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-ways-of-the-circus-george-conklin/1018639827 jim@stockley.co.za
4181. Dorchester Co., MD, 19 Mar 2013 - I've been looking through various websites including this one in detail. My great grandfather worked for "a" circus as what the family termed a "roust-about" from about 1888 to 1892 or 1893. He did know how to quickly put up a large tent according to my father who helped him to it many times in the 1930s. He met my great grandmother who was dirt poor, when she visited the circus while he was traveling with the show in or near Dorchester County Maryland around 1892 or 1893 and he left the circus to marry the woman he fell in love with and settled down. Any ideas of where I'd research to find the circus that he might have worked for. It may have been a minor show. The only show I have found so far that went through or near Dorchester County at that time was the Sells Circus, but he is not named on the staff listings. Would it be possible that he could have worked for Sells? I'm wondering if he worked for a minor circus. One thought I had was to look at newspapers in Talbot or Dorchester County, Maryland from the time to see if there were advertisements for a smaller circus that traveled through there. Thank you for any thoughts or ideas you might have. JDL Shane Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 4180. Elephants, ca 1930, 15 Mar 2013 - I was given a picture of a herd of elephants with their names written on a note attached that allegedly were cared for or something by a great uncle Will Wright. The picture is very old but we are dating it around 1930, probably in the Michigan area, and the names of the elephants are listed as :Joe, B. Jennie, Tessie, Nellie, B. Babe, Carrie, L. Babe, Wilma, Jean, Louie, L. Jennie, George, Tony and Blanche. Unfortunately everyone who could tell us the story are no longer with us. It would be wonderful to find out more about this man and the elephants he cared for. If anyone could tell me anything I would sure appreciate it. Cheryl Stuart (nee Lundy), St Albert, Alberta Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4179. Floyd Stone, midget, 15 Mar 2013 - I am trying to locate anyone who knew about Floyd Stone, a circus midget who died 50 yrs ago or so. I believe he traveled the World with Barnum & Bailey. I can't find relatives in his home town, & some friends would very much like to tribute this fascinating fellow. Would you please be so kind as to direct me to anyone who could help me find out more about him? Thanks for your time & consideration, Frank Keller Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 4178. Circuses 1100s, 15 Mar 2013 - I was wondering if there were travelling circuses in the 1100's? Thanx, Lori Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4177. Argentina, circus equipment, 15 Mar 2013 - We are a UK Production company making a series of short films in Argentina about restoring treasured possessions and wondered if any of your Argentinian connections had any old circus equipment in Argentina which they would like to get restored? We are looking for items with a fascinating history that have been passed down through the family and are now owned, or will be owned by Argentinian women, aged 18-35. For the chosen participant and chosen item, we will pay for the full cost of the restoration, with restorers of their choice, and also pay the participant a fee for being in the film. This is an opportunity to participate in a film, tell your story and have something restored by an expert. Interested people should contact me as soon as possible as we are filming in Argentina in April. The reason we are contacting you is the strong tradition or circus performing in Argentina. Best regards and I look forward to hearing from you. Michelle, michelle@gundogmedia.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 4176. Maurice Patrick Duffy, 15 Mar 2013 - I have learnt that my grandfather Maurice Patrick Duffy (or Duffey) born 1903 in New Zealand had a circus involvement and I wondered if you knew of any information on this. I have been told that he had a troop of performing poodles as late as the 1950’s but his main interest was as a trapeze artist where he went by the name ‘The Great Wunderbar’. All of this would have been in New Zealand. Thank you, Nick Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4175. Hoxie Bros. 1983, 12 Mar 2013 - I am looking for anyone involved with the Hoxie Brother's Circus in Miami in 1983, specifically March-December. Any information, no matter how small could be a huge help. Thank you! R Jackson, recell02@hotmail.com Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4174. Snapp Bros. Shows, 11 Mar 2013 - I am looking for any information on a carnival by the name of Snapp Bros. Shows. My interest is learning more about them because my husband was told that she was a sword walker. She and her husband work for the Snapp Bros. sometime around 1919 or later. Her husband we believe was a merry go round operator. When my husband was a child he visited his grandmother in Texarkana, Texas, he remembers a merry go around in their back yard. If this will help their names were Luanna and Henry Walsh. Please contact me by my e-mail, coreeneedy@yahoo.com. Katherine Wells. Thank for your help any thing will be greatly appreciated. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Announced as a 20-car outfit, a railroad contract set the size at fifteen cars in May 1921. It grew to 25 cars in 1922, cutting back to 20 in 1926 and 1927. Snapp Bros. was killed off by the Depression. Widower Belle Snapp Wortham put a thirteen-car Snapp property up for sale in early 1930. No buyer identity has been found and whether it sold as one lot or piecemeal is unknown. Photographic coverage of the Snapp operation is rare. A view of the show train is in Billboard, October 18, 1924, page 86, with portraits of the brothers and later midway views in a 1933 or later issue of the generic circus and carnival program titled "Circus Magazine." A real photo postcard sold in 2006 documented a large railroad show midway. About 1933, William Snapp framed and toured a motorized carnival, Snapp Greater Shows, which lasted into the mid-1950s. There is no archive of Snapp Bros. Shows documentation known to exist. The continuums of data that do survive include coverage in the weekly trade journals "Billboard" and "New York Clipper," and digitized newspapers. The trade journals sometimes published show rosters and these might contain the names of the people that you seek. Fred Dahlinger Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, FL
4173. William, Mary Allison, 11 Mar 2013 - I am looking for any information on a husband and wife who were in the circus in Philadelphia around 1900. They gave up my grandmother Gertrude May Allison after her birth to an orphanage. She was born on 09/21/1901. The orphanage was in Philadelphia. The husband and wife name was William and Mary Allison. Any information would be truly appreciated. Thank you Lisa Culver Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 4172. James Riley, 09 Mar 2013 - I was woundering if any one could help me Iam looking for a person by the name of Mr. James Riley who was in the circus in the 1940-50s and they came to Taree/Newcastle. Any info would be helpful. Not sure what circus he was in. Would like to put a face or something to a love story we have. Thank you, Belinda Mawhinney, gamawhinney@bigpond.com Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4171. 1898 London Circus, 08 Mar 2013 - I am the great granddaughter of Mattie Lee Price, the "Georgia Wonder" aka "Georgia Magnet." I would like to find out several particulars about her dealings with the circus. 1. How was anyone signed on for the London circus? 2. Would her costumes be provided by the circus costume department? 3. When and how did she make her way to London. Did side show acts go on the circus boats? 4. How much would she have been paid and how was she paid. 5. The death certificate for her states her name was Aronson, husband named "Louis." Would the circus have record of this relationship? She died during the off season (11 March 1899) in London. Her children (my grandmother and her brother) had traveled to meet her in November of 1898. They were returned to the US and placed in a foster home of sorts. Would the circus have any record of what happened? I do not expect anyone to do the research for me, but it would be very helpful if I could be pointed in the right direction to begin uncovering information. Donna Dicksson, Donna.Dicksson@gmail.com, Garland, TX Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 4170. Enoch Einhause family act, 05 Mar 2013 - Looking for information about Enoch Einhause family circus act in the 1900. They are from Quincy Illinois. Thanks for your help, Rebecca Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4169. William P. Hall, 04 Mar 2013 - Thank you so much for posting a link and information about my website on your home page. It is really neat to see how this project is reaching past my school doors! I won first place at our regional National History Day competition in the individual website category, with my topic on William P. Hall. I am now updating my site to prepare for the state level. I would love to have any opinons, information, photos, or articles that anyone may have on William Preston Hall. Here is a link to my website on Hall that won: Thank you in advance for your time, Lauren Kramer, Kirksville Middle School 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 4168. Richard Evans, 04 Mar 2013 - I am currently researching my family history and have been advised that my great great grandad, Richard Evans, was part of the circus tradition in Wales; could you advise me if you have any information on the Evans family from Wales, I would estimate, around the 1900? Thank you in advance, Angela Carrick Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4167. Matthews, acrobat, 03 Mar 2013 - Searching for any information about an acrobat (maybe contortionist too) by the last name of Matthews who worked with an east coast circus mid 1800's. Bob Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4166. Thomas Furno, 28 Feb 2013 - I am researching a family tree concerning the name Furno-Drake. I would appreciate any info that you may be able to give me. The leads that I have concern Thomas Furno who I believe was a clown, he sometimes only used the surname Drake. He was born 1855 and connected to circuses including Sangers circus anywhere from 1877-1915. I also have the name William Furno- Drake as being manager/agent for Sangers 1903- 1915. He has a mention in the book by Garrad Tyrwhitt-Drake titled "The English Circus and Fairground." It is clear however that he is no relation to the writer. Yours hopefully, Marilyn Carter Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4165. Lion tamer, German circus, 26 Feb 2013 - Hello, my name is Ishi. I am writing a novel and need information. I am looking for an expert in lion tamer and in German circus. My email is: ron@simplygood.biz. Thanks, Ishi Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 4164. Henry E. Cook, circus photographer, 17 Feb 2013 - My great-grandfather, Henry E. Cook, of Chateaugay and Saranac, NY and later from Boston, is supposed to have been a photographer for the circus. He would have lived in NY from the late 1880's until 1910 and then in Boston from 1910 - 1916. I would appreciate any ideas you could give me for research on this topic. Are there indexes or employee records from that time. Roseanne Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Many local photographers took incidental shots of traveling circus activity, to provide them with a broad array of images to sell. In some cases, they liked the circus because it challenged their skills to capture the color, motion and excitement of the ring shows. Circus views might also present opportunity for the selling of prints of a unique and popular topic. It was once common for photographers to sell their business, complete with studio and negatives, to another photographer, much as a dentist or other professional might sell their office operation as a “going concern.” It would suggest researching the history of photographers in the communities where Mr. Cook resided. Also check large, nearby communities, such as Plattsburgh. Many glass plate collections were salvaged for their silver content, or used as greenhouse glass, but a few have survived and generally are now owned by libraries and historical societies. In some cases, the work of one photographer is concealed by the name of a later one that purchased his holdings. Circuses typically purchased the services of established commercial photographers, using their professional quality shots for publicity purposes. Examples of these contracted services include Harry A. Atwell of Chicago. One banquet photographer, Ed Kelty, in New York, made numerous, special mass poses, which he later sold to the profession. In other instances, people with cameras sometimes accompanied a circus for all or part of a season, creating a body of work. Route books issued by the Ringling Bros. and John Robinson shows in the 1890s and early 1900s include arrays of views made under those circumstances. Members of the troupe might also be handy with a camera. Examples of such people include Mrs. Al Ringling, staffers Charles Andress and Bert Cole, and clown Pete Mardo. You might check the Charles Christian Cook collection at the Keeneland Race Course library, Lexington, KY. It’s a collection of some 18,000 negatives, mostly horse photography, and includes a large grouping of Barnum & Bailey photography from c1908 and perhaps other years. There is no biographical information online, or an indication of his site of residence, but a contact with the librarian may provide the desired information. There is a selection of circus photography at the Boston Public Library. Some of these images were utilized to illustrate volumes by author Courtney Ryley Cooper. Leslie Jones is identified as the photographer in some instances. Most of these appear to be later than your 1916 date. There was also a group of late 19th century Barnum & Bailey photography that was owned for years by the Chester Photo Service of Boston. I believe that this group has now migrated elsewhere. The identity of the photographer that took those shots has never been established, as far as I know. Fred Dahlinger, Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, FL
4163. Ringling Bros. 1914, 16 Feb 2013 - We are looking for any information on the Ringling show in 1914, route, side show line up, any info will help, thanks in advance. C.W. Eldridge Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 4162. German circus, 3rd Reich, 13 Feb 2013 - My name is Ishi Ron from Israel, I am writing a novel dealing with German circus on the time of the 3rd Reich of Nazi regime. I am looking for someone expert on this Historic times of circus, that have the information on the structure of the circus, the acts, Jobs and way of travel, feeding the animals and lots of other details. I would be grateful if you can hook me up with someone. Thanks, Ishi Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4161. Joseph Aaron, Diavolo, 13 Feb 2013 - Hi, I own the "Cat & Fiddle Inn built and started by Joseph Aaron/Diavolo. Do you have any other info about him? Thank you, Jeff Hogan 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 4160. Joe Dickerson, 12 Feb 2013 - Hello there, my name is Gary Dickerson from Chicago, Illinois. My grandfather was in Cole Brothers and Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey. I was just trying to find out any information on him. His name was Joe Dickerson, also known as "Curley." He told me about his time with the circus but not too much. He set up and tore down tents and such, loading train cars also. Any information is much appreciated, thank you very much. Hope to hear from you. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4159. Baby Irene, 12 Feb 2013 - My Aunt, Baby Irene, was a fat lady in the Barnum Bailey circus, around 1940 to 1950s. I am trying to locate some information her. Deborah Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4158. Pearl, fat girl, 05 Feb 2013 - Photo of fat girl, says "Pearl, 'the little girl', Barnum and Bailey Circus" on the back. Does anyone have any further info? Thanks, Bob C. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4157. Thanks!, 05 Feb 2013 - Dear Mr. Vonderheid, I am writing to thank you for all the times you came to my elementary school with your amazing animals (I especially remember the macaws, the fawn and Julio.) I went to Lore Elementary in Ewing, NJ in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Today, I volunteer Fridays at Central Park Zoo in NYC. Every time I pass by our macaws, I think of you, because yours were the first macaws I ever saw. and you are the main reason I wanted to work with animals in the first place. Thanks again! Saima Huq Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 4156. William Douglas, equestrian, 01 Feb 2013 - Im looking for information on a gentleman named William Arthur Read Douglas. On his marriage certificate it states his occupation as an equestrian. On the 1901 census it says that he is a circus acrobat. I can't seem to find a death for him in England and wondered if he could have gone to America. Many thanks for your time. Josie Jackson. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
No doubt since you have acquired a marriage certificate you’ve also researched his wife’s line. Was she also in the circus business? Name? British circus families and the shows they traveled are generally well known. If he’s in that 1901 census, can you establish the identity of the circus or other entity with which he was then affiliated? Finding the organization with which he was associated may enable other lines of investigation to be pursued. Starting the search from the points of knowledge that you possess is always better than fishing around for a hopeful hit elsewhere. Have you tried the National Fairground Archive at Sheffield University? The challenge is that your man had three names by which he may have been identified, plus any aliases and a troupe name. It was not uncommon for foreigners to change their names after coming to the US, much like film stars changed theirs in later decades. This makes tracking them all the more difficult. For example, the British-originated riding family Hodges became Hodgini in the US. There’s circus personnel name finding aids at Circus World Museum termed the "yellow tickets" and "Draper file" and you might request a check of those compilations. Immigration into the US through Ellis Island can be checked at the website: http://www.ellisisland.org/ Foreigners entered the US through other ports and it’s also necessary to check them to be thorough. Dan Draper’s extensive notes on equestrians in the US fail to list him a William Douglas, or anyone named Douglas that fits your criteria. You can peruse the topic further in his notes at: http://www.ringlingcircus.org/equestrian/ There are about 2000 hits for equestrians named William or Bill. There is no similar resource for acrobats, as a specialty, if that was his chosen activity. One could be a bareback or pad rider and do acrobatics. The first American census where you might find him is 1910, assuming that your 1901 entry is in Great Britain. The Barnum & Bailey show toured England 1898-1899 and when the show returned to the US for 1903 some Europeans came with them. They were generally in the 1903 roster, in the route book. Your gentleman, if he was part of an equestrian or acrobatic group may not have had an identity in the show programs and advertising, as the troupe name would have been the one published. His name may only have been in staff rosters. You can also search the pages of the weekly trade serials Billboard and New York Clipper. See message 4131 for links. This can be a very arduous and time-consuming search. Fred Dahlinger Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, FL
4155. Olivia & Gordon, knife act, 01 Feb 2013 - I had an Aunt and Uncle Olivia aka Olive and Gordon aka Birdie who traveled with the circus c.1950-1960. They lived in Maine. Olive was about 4'10" - 5' tall and Godie was over 6'. They had a knife throwing act with her on a wheel and also he used to shoot cigarettes from her mouth using an arrow. They had a two full page article done on their act and gave it to me around 1963. I lost it and don't know the name of the paper or circus they were with. She would dress in a bathing suit style Indian outfit with feathers in her hair and they had a black and white dog that could tell if Birdie had been drinking. I'm not even sure what their stage name were. Any help in finding info on them would be greatly appreciated. They have been deceased for a long time now. Thank you. You can reach me at root 4 me 2@ yahoo. No spaces. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 4154. Rhode Island circus, 31 Jan 2013 - My name is Paul Williamson and I’m looking for any information that you might have about a traveling circus that might have played in Rhode Island in the late 30s and early 40s. I believe that it may have been owned or operated by a G. W. Murray and his wife Dorothy. Thanks. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4153. Joseph Tinus, 31 Jan 2013 - Family Research and Circus's are Fun: I am researching a family ancestor, who had the great ability to balance anything, example chair, table, etc. His name was Joseph Tinus (also found spelled Tynus), born about 1877. He came from Austria/Slovakland around 1900-01 to the U.S. He was to have been a tight rope walker there in Europe. Which I believe, due to his abilities and it's been inherited by my husband who can also balance like this. My question, is there any resources I may try to find records of this Circus career? Thank You for your time. Sincerely, Deborah Johnson Tinus; dtinus@intergate.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 4152. Robert Briggs, Beverly Jones, 29 Jan 2013 - I am trying to find out any information regarding Beverly Jones and Robert Briggs. Robert Briggs was an electrician in the circus. Beverly Jones was a performer in the "web act". They were in the Ward Circus in 1948. In June of 1948, while at a stop in Hibbing, Minnesota she had a son. It made it in the local newspaper about a new arrival in the circus. They also were in The Clyde Beatty Circus. She performed in a side show in the Clyde Beatty Circus as the magician's assistant as the floating woman in his act. They also performed in Ringling Bros. Circus briefly. These are my grandparents and any extra information would be appreciated. Brenda Briggs Hinson Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4151. Mother Schmidtley, 29 Jan 2013 - While researching my family history, I learned that my third great grandmother was very fond of circuses. So much so, that she participated in the parades through town and according to her obituary in the local paper, "whenever there was a circus in the city, half of the people were not satisfied with the parade, not satisfied that there had been one unless Mother Schmidtley and her three or four grandchildren were seen following in it's wake." Her name was Barbara Schmidt and she acquired the nickname of Mother or Grandmother Schmidtley because her husband was known as Schmidtley which was an affectionate nickname referring to his stature. Schmidtley is German for Little Smith. While Barbara was not a performer, apparently she never missed a parade or performance and usually stayed on or near the show grounds the entire day. I've searched the message boards, but didn't find mention of her. Would love to see anything that mentioned her; having a photo would be incredible. To give you a time frame, she passed away in 1910 after two to three years of poor health. Would guess that she attended circuses all her life, but maybe there might be information in the late 1800's or early 1900's as the grandchildren were mentioned attending the circus with her. She lived in Huntington, Indiana which is southwest of Fort Wayne, Indiana. Other cities might have visited could be Marion or Muncie, Indiana. Thanks, Kim Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4150. "Gentleman Jack" Iversen, 27 Jan 2013 - I have written an article about my mentor, the Danish Gentleman thief Tommy “Gentleman Jack” Iversen. You can read it at www.cirkus-dk.dk/gentleman-jack If anyone has additional information about Gentleman Jack, who performed in many countries, or additional photos I will be very grateful. Kenny Quinn Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
If someone replies, don't forget a thank you reply. 4149. Photos needed, 26 Jan 2013 - I have a book being published this summer about Topsy, the elephant once with the Forepaugh show. I am having difficulty obtaining high resolution (300 dpi) digital photos of Topsy, as well as Adam Forepaugh, Sr. and Adman Forepaugh, Jr. (Addie) and Moses "Eph" Thompson. I also would be very interested in photos of other Forepaugh elephants. There are photos of most of these out in the internet, but the book company says they are not high enough resolution. Even Eph Thompson's great-grreat grandson does not have one. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks oyu, Michael Daly email: mickdalyny@gmail.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 4148. Sterling, IL, 1936-45, 25 Jan 2013 - I am doing research on Sterling Illinois, 1936-1945. I need to know the names of circuses that visited Sterling and the year(s) they did so. Thanks, Bill Prentiss, wcprentiss@aol.com Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4147. Melista, knife thrower, 24 Jan 2013 - I am looking for information regarding my grandmother who apparently was a knife thrower in a circus. She was living in northern Kentucky and the time frame would be after 1918 and before 1923. Her name was Melista Mae (Alesta, Lista, Lister, Listie, Elista) Dawson or Taylor. Is it possible to find that information? Marilyn Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 4146. Circus grounds, Atlanta, 23 Jan 2013 - History of the "Old Circus Grounds" in Atlanta, GA - While researching the Great Atlanta Fire of 1917, I have run across a number of references to an open field bounded by Irwin Street in the north, Boulevard to the east, Jackson Street in the west, and a currently nonexistent section of Old Wheat Street in the south. Sometimes it is referred to as the “Old Show Grounds”. Today it is occupied by the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site, its Visitor Center, and Ebenezer Baptist Church (the new one). I would like to know the story behind this plot. For example, I would like to know from what circus it received this designation, and when? Rob Hill Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Southern railroads were strained in the extreme to support the war effort, as were the northern lines, for that matter. I haven’t researched the topic specifically, but I imagine that efforts were made to vacate whatever was portable out of the city of Atlanta prior to the arrival of the Union forces. A lease of desperately-needed cars to a circus, given those life and death circumstances, would not have been a rational action. The bottom line is that the Western & Atlanta or any southern rail line was unlikely to have leased any cars to showmen in 1863. In the past few years there have been several excellent books published about Civil War railroad activity, both in the North and the South, including one picture volume. You may want to seek them out for background information. There are also the older George Abdill and E. P. Alexander volumes on the subject, the latter devoted to modeling. Other than the short-lived experiment by Spalding & Rogers in the early 1850s, no circus owned railroad cars until 1872. Until the 1880s shows were more inclined to lease their cars as to own them, probably more so. Most railroad operations by circuses of the 1850s and 1860s were reduced scale efforts. We’d term them gilly shows today, based on later applied terminology. They typically consisted of the pavilion show, a sideshow, sometimes a single parade wagon and in the 1870s a free attraction, like a balloon ascension. The wagons and horses were generally parked somewhere and the shows operated out of ordinary box cars and coaches leased from the railroads. There’s limited indication of the use of stock and flat cars. In terms of the early appearance of early railroad circuses, there’s no photography until 1872. One must rely upon engravings prior to that date. The two most useful ones are of the Dan Rice show in 1863 and the L. B. Lent show in 1866. These both appear in Bandwagon, November-December 1983, pages 8-9, as part of a long essay on early railroad shows. They depict the show name applied to title boards, car sides and so on, but whether these were actually present on any cars is unknown. Rather than to paint the cars, shows may have secured cloth or canvas banners that proclaimed their occupancy of the railroad’s cars, especially if the rail line rotated the cars provided on a day by day basis, and as the circus moved off one line to another. Unfortunately, there’s no period confirmation of either painted cars or temporarily-applied banners. The flat car type circus evolved during the late 1860s, partially the result of strategic long jumps made by overland shows, and in other instances by a couple shows attempting to travel along rail lines. Fred Dahlinger Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, FL
"Another baseball shrine was the old Show Ground at Boulevard, Wheat (now Auburn avenue), Jackson and Irwin streets. There a large vacant field, for years the property of a rich banker by the name of Coker, was kept free to be rented by circuses, hence the name. On the death of Mr. Coker someone bought the property and built a ball park there, with a grandstand and an enclosed field. Some of the Southern League games were played there in the late 1890s. A widely acclaimed feat took place there in 1896 when Jack Prince announced he would ride his bicycle on the 8 or 10 lap board track against ten horses, the horses to be changed every mile. He beat them by a half mile, to the amazement of the big crowd which gathered to see him try to make good his boast." - McMahon, Doreen, "Pleasure Spots of Old Atlanta", The Atlanta Historical Bulletin, Vol. VII, No. 29, October, 1944, Atlanta Historical Society, page 230. Thank you all for the great information. Rob Hill
4145. Wentworth Bros. miniature, 22 Jan 2013 - My name is Randy Wentworth. My grandparents, Del and Emma Wentworth, were members of your group many years ago. I wonder if anyone in your group still remembers them, and if you remember Del's "Wentworth Brothers Circus in Miniature"? Does one of your members have memories or even pictures they could share with me? I loved Granddad's miniature circus, and I believe that it was somewhat popular in its time, as he used to tour with it and set it up here and there around the country. He kept a small version of it in a circus wagon next to his home in Monrovia for many years, and with the onset of old age, he eventually had to sell it. Unfortunately it couldn't stay in the family as none of us had the money to buy it from him, but it would be fantastic to learn something of where it ended up, if anyone knows. Other photos and stuff would be most welcome too, of course. Here's hoping that one of your people remembers Mr. and Mrs. Delavan Menzo Wentworth. Granddad was never happier than when he was talking about the circus! 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 4144. Lion, Winnipeg, 20 Jan 2013 - I grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada in the mid 1970's. I have a strong memory I am hoping you can place and validate. Around 1976 I recall walking to Crane Elementary School along my regular route, which included cutting through a neighbours' back yard. This particular day as I entered the yard I was greated and startled by a full grown male lion!!! Roofers above me called down and said not to be afraid and if I came back later I could pet the lion! I remember the experience and recall that the roofers also ran or participated in a circus. They just happended to have one of their star attractions with them at the construction site that day. Was I dreaming? Can you help me find out who they are/were? Thanks and best regards, Keith Holm Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4143. Baraboo aerial accident, 17 Jan 2013 - My husband says as a child in the 1960s he attended the Barboo, WI summer circus when there was an accident with an aerial. He remembers thay cleared the tent but never found out what happened. Would you have any info on this incident? Thank you, Karen Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4142. Circuses, Russia WWII, 14 Jan 2013 - I'm currently researching how the second world war affected circus in Russia. Did the circus community continue to perform and entertain during this time? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much!! Duncan Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4141. Bert W. Robinson, 13 Jan 2013 - I am doing a genealogy research project that includes Bert W. Robinson and his wife Kate. I have found them in a 1920 census in El Centro, Ca., which puts them with the Wortham Show. He was an animal trainer, and she was a showgirl. I am interested in anything I can find out about this carnival, and what both of these people may have been doing with it. Bert died before the next census, and I am also searching for any information about his years between 1920 and 1930. Thank you, Pat Roberts, El Cajon, CA Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
The 1930s Billboards are not yet online or available with key word searching. Once you establish the gentleman's date of death there's a chance that an obituary may have been published under the Final Curtain column in Billboard. A quick Google check revealed a 1928 entry published in Circus Report of April 25, 1977, page 14B. The Robinson & Schilder show featuring trained animals played the Los Angeles area under an 80-foot top with three 40-foot middles. This was an independent outfit, doing what is known as a "still date," without a sponsor. It must have been booked by Robinson as a back end show on Wortham's railroad carnival in 1930. A recollection by Bob Taber said that Bert Robinson left the Cosmopolitan Carnival, a pretty good sized operation of the early 20th century and took his lions and ponies to frame a show under an 80-foot top. He wintered in Orange County and then opened elsewhere. Taber also related that Robinson died as a result of injuries sustained in an encounter with one of his lions while in Idaho. [Bandwagon, Nov-Dec 1967 http://www.circushistory.org/Bandwagon/bw-1967Nov.htm] You should find reference to such an accident in newspapers, and there will also be coverage in Billboard. Fred Dahlinger Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, Florida Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 4140. Hagenbeck's Tierpark, 12 Jan 2013 - Hello, I was just wondering what you could tell me about a one inch pocket knife that says Hagenbeck's Tierpark it has two blades on one end and a cork screw on the other side. I know nothing about it exept its made in Germany and its made by Elosi. I looked up the actual zoo which is amazing! but I can't find anything on the knife! Jessica Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4139. Trapeze act 1950s, 12 Jan 2013 - I am performing genealogical research for someone here in Ireland, and have a very tenuous clue that I'm hoping someone can help me expand on. I was looking for the descendants of a Margaret Mulcahy (b. 1866 Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, Ireland) who had moved to Cheshire in England. I see her in the 1901 census of Cheshire - still single - but nowhere thereafter. Her married name is not known. The relevance here is that her granddaughter, Roma (surname not known), visited Clonmel in c1956 with the circus. She was a blond lady of about 18 who was part of a trapeze act. Some research showed that the Chipperfield Circus visited Clonmel in 1956, and there are pictures on the Internet of the elephants arriving at the railway station. This is not much of a clue but I'm trying to identify Roma's family name and work backwards from there. Any help or suggestions would be wonderful. Tony Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Explore, Enjoy circus history with Bandwagon, join CHS today! Membership 4138. Babe Zaharias, 11 Jan 2013 - Working on a book on Babe Didrikson Zaharias, who at 12 or 13 years old, performed in the Ringling Barnum & Bailey Circus with her sister Lillie in either 1923, 1924 or 1925. They were chaperoned by iron jaw butterfly girl aerialist Minnie McCandless or Minnie Markby who drove them Beaumont, Texas to California to join up with the circus. I’m looking for: 1. Info & photos of Babe (Mildred) or Lillie Didriksen [Sen is correct] performing. They apparently rode elephants on their heads, walked the tightrope, and performed on the trapeze. 2. Child circus performers performers from the 1920's. 3. Minnie McCandless or Markby performing her iron jaw moves. Thanks, Rich and Sandra Wallace Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4137. William Codona, 09 Jan 2013 - I was hoping someone may be able to help. Would anyone know which circus would have been in Inverness, Scotland around March/April 1912. My great grandfather William Codona was listed as a gymnast and clown at this time and I would like to find out which circus he worked with. Many thanks, William Codona Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 4136. Tommy, Ringling Bros., 09 Jan 2013 - I am trying to locate a performer, Tommy, with Ringling Brothers Circus. I think he was a tightrope walker from Hungary who was performing with Ringling Brothers Circus in 1976. He also had an uncle who performed in the show. I am not sure of his last name. Any information would be helpful. Best Regards, Jay Lucas Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4135. Norman D Brown, 09 Jan 2013 - I am looking for a picture of Norman D Brown who was secretary for Miller Bros.Shows, 1921-to ? He died in 1934 working for William Glick Shows as a secretary. I know it is a long shot but, thank you, Beatrice his granddaughter 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 4134. Molly Vaughan, 06 Jan 2013 - I am trying to research my ancestry and have come upon a stumbling block with my great, great grandmother Molly Vaughan. She and her husband "The Professor" were allegedly performers in some kind of circus during the year prior to the Civil War. She was a trapeze artist who swung by her teeth if family tradition is correct. She lived in Arkansas, and her parents were from Kentucky. That's about all the information I have. If you could help me or perhaps point me in the right direction to look, I'd be most appreciative. Thanks, Leticia Hallmark Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4133. Leslie J. Ardiff, 05 Jan 2013 - I've just started researching my family tree and may have just discovered that my grandfather, Leslie J. Ardiff (DOB-Sept. 19, 1905) (married Cecelia Emily Ripps), was part of the Beckman circus. I am just trying to verify this fact. I had always been told he was a hockey player who died in a game bus accident. I, however, discovered on the 1940's census that he may have been a Manager for the Cook House in the Circus when it was visiting in Georgia, Fulton County, Lakewood Heights back in April 8, 1940 in the Southeastern Fairgrounds Lakewood Park. He died in Sept. 1940, so this would be almost immediately after this census was taken. Any information you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Melanie Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4132. New Year 2013, 02 Jan 2013 - Dear All, Wish You and your family a Very Happy & Prosperous New Year 2013 Hours of happy times with friends and family Abundant time for relaxation Prosperity Plenty of love when you need it the most Youthful excitement at lifes simple pleasures Nights of restful slumber Everything you need Wishing you love and light Years and years of good health Enjoyment and mirth Angels to watch over you Rembrances of happy years! Regards, Anand Dhotre, www.damoodhotre.com Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4131. Elizabeth Rooney, 31 Dec 2012 - Locate Lizzie Rooney relatives: I have a photocopy from Chicago Tribune Sunday magazine of Elizabeth Rooney and horse, Sells-Floto Circus 1922, sent from a great uncle (only child) I haven't seen in over 27 years. His mother was Katherine Rooney (maiden) but he is now quite elderly. My grandmother was Helen Rooney from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I have only his picture but always knew her family was from Baraboo, Wisconsin. My mother was an (only child) and they all passed 25 or more years ago, Audrey Rooney Teske born in Milwaukee. I am searching for my past. I have a photocopy of Elizabeth and it says underneath she and her two brothers were the riding Rooneys. They were to have invented the trick of two horses following each other and the second rider does a somersault from the first to the second horse. Her costume is a hoot standing on a white horse. Other than this photocopy, I want to find my relatives on the Rooney side. I am a teacher of special needs educators and feel I have the need to research our history to pass to my three adult boys. Please assist me in contacting those living related to Lizzie and the Rooney boys (riders). Can anyone help me? It is sure to be a long shot but who knows someone may can help me. Katherine (kafm48@aol.com) Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
You will also want to contact the Pete Shrake, archivist at the Circus World Museum Parkinson library in Baraboo: http://circusworld.wisconsinhistory.org/About/ResearchCenter.aspx. Their phone number is 608-356-8341. Their email address is on their website. - J. Griffin
The references can be checked in the many issues of Billboard [1894-1922] and New York Clipper [1853-1924 and Annuals], that are now available online at Fulton History, with later Billboards online via Google Books, with key word searching. Here are some links: http://www.fultonhistory.com/my%20photo%20albums/all%20newspapers/Billboard/index.html http://fultonhistory.com/my%20photo%20albums/All%20Newspapers/New%20York%20NY%20Clipper%201853%20-%201924/index.html Fred Dahlinger Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, FL Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 4130. Hagerstown, MD, 30 Dec 2012 - I live in a 2 story stone farm house on the Sharpsburg Pike, in (Washington County) Hagerstown Maryland and have heard that a circus once was set up on the property-possibly as early as the late 1700s or 1800s. The Sharpsburg Pike was originally called the Hagerstown Road/Pike and the house is approximately 2 miles South of Hagerstown, on the East side of the road. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Wanda Dittmann Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Dan Draper read many of the Hagerstown, MD newspapers and his findings might be available for consultation via a query to the Circus World Museum, or perhaps at a Hagerstown library or historical society. Further searching in local newspapers, especially Hagerstown and Sharpsburg, might reveal a story about a traveling show making a stop locally. Given that itinerant shows sometimes needed to stop and overnight en route, a convenient farm with feed, water, a barn and land, and a hospitable owner, could have been a good layover for a night. Bad weather may also have forced an unscheduled stop. Perhaps that is what took place at your property many years ago, the passage of time having enhanced the experience into a full-blown show? Fred Dahlinger Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, FL
4129. Jack Thorn Bishop, 28 Dec 2012 - I am trying to find information on a man named Jack Thorn Bishop. In the 1940 census (recorded on 13 Apr 1940) he is in New York City at the Hotel Capitol and is listed as a circus performer. From information on this site it seems that the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus was in New York City from April 5-30 in 1940, so I am guessing that he is with them. In the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Route Book for 1941 there is a Jack T. Bishop listed as a chauffeur. In the November 28, 1953 edition of Billboard magazine it lists a Jack Thorn Bishop that applied to the Miami Showman's Association. They have confirmed with me that Jack T. Bishop joined the MSA on October 9, 1953. If anyone has any additional information on Jack it would be greatly appreciated. Kisha, Wichita, KS 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 4128. Leo Carroll, 28 Dec 2012 - How would I find information regarding a Leo Carroll who had a bear show in the circus around 1940-1960 and also a Toni or Ann Hayden whom either was in a skating act with another girl, possibly her sister or was a showgirl and in the circus in Tampa around 1949 or 1950? Donna Appolson Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4127. Amazing Monahans, 26 Dec 2012 - Hi, I worked with an act (Risley) 1975 in Norway in Circus Berny. The act was performed of one man and a boy. They spoke english, the act was called Amazing Monahans. Later never heard about them again in Europe. Greetings from Danmark, Bjoern Schult-Bjoernlys Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4126. Williams Circus, 24 Dec 2012 - Trying to find out about William Frank, Williams Circus, early 1900. Supposedly had a winter home in Florida and summer home in New Mexico. My email rpugh46975@aol.com Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4125. Tampa, FL 1940, 20 Dec 2012 - I am seeking to find the names of any circuses or road shows which would have been operating in Tampa, Florida in April of 1940. David Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 4124. Levi Snyder, 19 Dec 2012 - I've been searching for info on my ancestor Levi Snyder and hoping you may be able to help. Levi was born in December 1818 and supposedly toured with Howe's Great London Circus as the veterinarian, until leaving the circus around 1845 to stay in Kingston, NY and get married. Records show he was born in New York, with a father Benjamin, but I don't have any more specifics. Do you know the touring route circa 1840, maybe if I knew what NY towns the circus hit I could narrow down my search for his birthplace. Or, obviously, if there is anything on record about him specifically that would be even better. Thanks for any help, Derek Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
A man named Nathan Howes was active as a traveling showman from 1826 onwards through 1849. His younger brother, Seth, was active from about 1826 into the 1870s and in conjunction with two nephews was associated with the formation of the Howes Great London for 1871. You can find cameo biographies for these showmen on this website, in the Virtual Library, in Slout’s "Olympians of the Sawdust Circle." There has been much written about them. It seems like the story as you told it associates a later Howes show element with possible earlier employment. The primary reference for rosters, routes and other information about the American traveling circus of 1825-1860 is Stuart Thayer’s "Annals of the American Circus," initially issued in three volumes and then later as one. You’ll want to obtain a copy via interlibrary loan for perusal. There is no specific entry for your ancestor’s name therein, but perhaps there is data of use to your search. Also look at alternative name spellings, like Snider. The volume includes a large array of show routes, but frankly, if you know Snyder settled in Kingston there seems to be no need for routes. The practice of veterinary medicine was not a well-defined one in the early circus. I don’t recall the first specific person to fill the post, but generally shows did not have a staff vet until the 20th century. Generally, horses and large mammals would have been treated by their handlers and keepers, perhaps in consultation with local horsemen or large mammal vets [those practicing on cows and horses]. It could be that his activity as a "veterinarian" grew out of caring for horses, perhaps as a performer involved with them, or as a driver or groom. Kingston, NY is just north of Westchester and Putnam Counties, the area most fertile with circus and menagerie activity in the 1820s and 1830s. The Howes brothers were out of Brewster and that would seem to be an area where you might focus your research. Consider scheduling a visit to the Somers Historical Society, a repository with many early traveling show documents. Perhaps you’ll find something mentioning Levi Snyder. Fred Dahlinger Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, FL
4123. Rose Gold, 18 Dec 2012 - Bonjour, Qui était cette dame qui m’impressionne beaucoup: la trapéziste Rose Gold? Merci d’avance pour votre aide Cordialement Guy. Translation: Hello, Who was this lady who impressed me a lot: the trapeze Rose Gold? Thank you in advance for your help. Cordially, Guy 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 4122. Miniature circus, 18 Dec 2012 - I have come into possession of a miniature Weaver Brothers Circus. I am looking for information on this miniature. How many were built, who it was built by, etc. Any information at all would be appreciated. I am interested in finding an outlet for these pieces, the vast collection in its entirety or at least some history on this amazing miniature collection. Most of the pieces depict the "back of house" of the circus; storage areas, food tents, clown staging area, under the bleachers, livestock holding area, etc. There is also 3 beautiful separate set-ups of the 3-ring performance rings. Thousands of pieces! A large portion of the pieces have been affixed to four 4' X 8' boards. The 3 performance rings, stadium, elephant parade, etc are in tubs. There are cardboard separators in these tubs that are from Ringling Broth. Cir. There was a business card that says: Weaver Bros. Circus; Carol & Marlin Weaver, Owner; CHS2228, CFA 5878, CFA F849, CMB 1/4" scale; Winter Quarters, 4065 Longview Dr., Chamblee, Ga. 30341. Thank you so much for any information or lead that you may be able to pass along! Audrey Alverson-Stowe, Pinson, AL Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4121. Colin Bennett, lion tamer, 17 Dec 2012 - I am looking for a lion tamer called Colin Bennett. He was with Bertram Mills in the early twenties. He partnered up with a wall of death rider called Lillian Lancaster. You could always tell Colin as he wore a gangsters trilby hat. This is in connection with tracing my wife’s family history. Any information will be gratefully received. Thanks, Robyn Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4120. Merkels Circus, 10 Dec 2012 - I am looking for any information on Merkels Circus. My great grandfather was riding a camel in the parade to advertise the circus and the camel threw him and he died. I would like to know as much about Merkels Cicus and this incident if possible. I would also like to know if anyone knows where I can buy an original or a copy of Merkels Circus. I think the Circus was based in Belgium but was touring in Germany. Many thanks, Lynn Griffith Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4119. Nilssons, aerial ballet, 05 Dec 2012 - Does anybody know anything about the Nilssons behind Nilsson’s aerial ballet? I know them from two advertisements, New York World, Sep. 9, 1894 at Koster & Bial's, first appearance in America and LA Times, 1897. Med vänlig hälsning, Jan Appelquist, Sweden. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 4118. Frank F. Lorberg, 04 Dec 2012 - I am writing for information regarding my grandmother's first husband Frank F. Lorberg. He was a trapeze artist-born 1852 and died in 1909 in St. Louis. He was of German descent. My grandmother's maiden name was Marie \Christine\ Rebekah Juergens. My dad was from her second marriage. Thank you, Norma Harrison Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4117. Daniel Shelby, 03 Dec 2012 - I have been working on my family tree for my 2nd great grand aunt, Lydia Karns Macher and found a surprise! Her husband's uncle was Daniel James Macher who changed his name to Daniel Shelby. I found some information on him from reading online and old newspapers. I know he was married to Agnes Blanche Cartland (his first marriage that I know of) and her sister Priscilla A Cartland who was an actress and went by the name of Grace Hawthorne. I did much work on old census, birth and death records and I found they had a son, Roy Daniel Macher, who died at the age of 5 in 1881. I have no idea what happened to her after that. I then find that he married Nellie Hatfield Pennock and found she also had a screen name, Helen Rainsley. From a news article about her husbands death I found she was singing with the Robin Hood Company in Canada at the time of his death. They had 2 children, Daniel Shelby, Jr and Medinah Shelby. I believe she remarried after Daniel Shelby's death and left New York. I find it all very interesting, it seems he was involved in so many things, being a clown, actor, manager, etc. Angie Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Basic data is given in Edward Le Roy Rice’s book "Monarchs of Minstrelsy," pages 122-123, which you can consult in Google Books. His portrait is on page 41 of that volume. http://books.google.com/books?id=nvY5AAAAIAAJ&pg=PA123&lpg=PA123&dq=%22dan+shelby%22+circus&source=bl&ots=p_IZLl1esx&sig=klvSb0DwC7QuSAsGzk3rr6IjOvQ&hl=en&sa=X&ei=nNe8UKu0JqnQyAHF8YDQDw&ved=0CC4Q6AEwADgK#v=onepage&q=%22dan%20shelby%22%20circus&f=false There’s a brief listing of Daniel Shelby in Slout’s "Olympians of the Sawdust Circle," which is on this website. http://www.circushistory.org/Olympians/OlympiansS1.htm It provides a specific date of death, which would enable you to seek his obituary in “New York Clipper” and elsewhere. It’s likely that additional quick references to his activity will be found in the notecards of the George Chindahl collection at Circus World Museum. He attended the December 1881 auction of the Van Amburgh menagerie in Amenia, NY, per the New York Times coverage of the event. Clipper references to other 1880s activities are here: http://www.circushistory.org/Clipper/Clipper1880s.htm The auction of his 1888 circus was announced in "New York Clipper," November 10, 1888, page 565. It was held in Richmond, VA on November 21 and was likely covered by the local newspapers. A profile of Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton by Charles Bernard is in "Billboard," March 28, 1936, page 64. Sounds like you’ve covered the various aspects of his family life. Sometimes there’s relationships between family situations and the professional life, but not always. It’s not often mentioned in accounts of employment. Going further becomes a matter of how much research you desire to do on his career. Doing a simple Google search "Dan Shelby" + circus revealed many hits, plus others for show name variations. Digitized newspapers will contain information, as will the pages of "New York Clipper." There are newspaper ads from his outfits, perhaps some handbills/heralds or couriers, and some lithographs (Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton), and perhaps other items. Fred Dahlinger Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, FL Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 4116. Frank Cook, 01 Dec 2012 - I am looking for any further information regarding Frank Cook, and/or his significant other, a Ms. Cook, who also worked with the horses I believe. Frank has a single entry under the John Robinson Circus as an athlete who worked with the horses. Ms. Cook does not seem to have any entries. I do know she later opened a boarding house in New York City for entertainment people. My name is Hillarie Cook Speziale, from Winsted, CT. Frank would be my great grandfather. Thank you in advance for any information - Hillarie Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4115. Johnny Mack, Eileen, 01 Dec 2012 - I am trying to find out any info on my Great Aunt, Eileen (Day) Mack born 1908 in Jeddore, Nova Scotia, Canada. She married Johnny Mack, both worked at the circus, Eileen was suppose to ride a motorcycle on the Wall of Death and Johnny Mack drove a bike on a tightrope. Apparently they did shows on Coney island N.Y. I have them travelling with the circus to Buenos Aires on Jan. 3, 1938 on the S.S. Uruguay and have a picture of them with a friend Buster Quinn. I have Eileen dying in Buenos Aries in 1942. If the family received or new more info I believed it was all lost in a house fire in the 70’s. Any help in finding anymore info on Eileen or Johnny Mack would be appreciated. Roberta Day, Halifax, Nova Scotia Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Having the date for their embarkation to Buenos Aires, I’d recommend searching "Billboard" for a couple weeks before and after that date. You might find some coverage of their departure, the identity of the group they traveled with, etc. I would look more along the lines of a carnival, as opposed to a circus. Whether her passing would have been covered by "Billboard" during the war I’m not certain; there were some years in which "Billboard" published an annual mortality listing, after the New Year. You might look in early 1943 for such a listing, or you’ll have to check the weekly 1942 "Final Curtain" listings for her notice. Fred Dahlinger Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, Florida Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 4114. Philip Sellick, 26 Nov 2012 - Have you any info on Philip Sellick, of New Brunswick, Canada, who was a hunter and appeared on the Barnum and Bailey`s circus in the 1800's? The Sellick family originated from North Petherton, Somerset, UK. but settled on Prince Edward Island prior to his circus appearance. Can offer more information if needed. Harry Sellick Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4113. Burt Cole, 26 Nov 2012 - Does anyone know of a Burt Cole? There is an old Hagenbeck Wallace yard long 1914 photo of clowns that is signed by him as the person who penned in the name of the clowns and colored over the faded image perhaps with markers? Don't know if he added or subtracted value. If he is circus-related, it would be nice to know as the photo is a rarer one. He certainly somehow knew all of the clowns names. Seems to me he would have to have been affiliated somehow. Thank you, Laura Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4112. Gollmar Circus, 1899, 25 Nov 2012 - I am looking for any information, photos, or posters from the Gollmar Circus when it was in New Richmond, WI, on June 12, 1899. That was the day the entire town was hit by a cyclone. Paul Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
If you can locate a copy of Dean Jensen’s book about Wisconsin's circus history, "The Biggest, the Smallest, the Longest, the Shortest," you’ll find fairly detailed coverage of the incident as it relates to the show. I don’t have a copy, but "My Father Owned a Circus" by Robert Gollmar probably discusses the impact of the storm on the show. In May of 2011, the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel published a story about the storm's history that includes the following: "The circus tent was set up at the fairgrounds, now where the middle school is located, and appeared to have been spared the storm's brunt. Five circus performers and one of the Gollmar brothers were reported injured." You may already be aware that the Gollmars were cousins of the Ringlings and also based out of Baraboo, so it would seem likely the Circus World Museum has Gollmar information as well. Lance Burton
Local and regional newspapers and the "New York Clipper" will be your best resources for coverage of the event, along with local library or historical society and collector holdings. http://nrheritagecenter.org/cyclone.htm A general history of the Gollmar circus, Robert H. Gollmar’s book, "My Father Owned a Circus," will provide context. In 1899 the Gollmar outfit was still moving overland, by horse and wagon. The general devastation of the community is documented in a panorama photograph at this site, but the circus may have moved on to Amery, WI, the next date, by the time the image was taken: http://www.crh.noaa.gov/mkx/?n=newrichmond-tornado. Click on the image to enlarge it, and a digital file might be available at the Library of Congress website. The circus embraced the tent as a traveling house for shows in 1825. The earliest date a circus tent was flattened by a wind or storm, termed a "blowdown," isn’t recorded, but it is believed one took place already in the 1840s. They were among the most common disasters to strike the circus, so showmen always looked warily at the skies if the weather looked threatening. Shows could assure that stakes and such were tight, and reinforced, but if a major storm or wind hit quickly or unexpectedly there was little to be done other than to evacuate the top, putting people directly out into harms' way. In threatening weather they might drop the top and pack up, cancelling shows, if that appeared to be the prudent course. Circuses that toured the Midwest were the most susceptible to big storms, but they’re not unknown elsewhere. Forepaugh-Sells took a major hit right in New York City, thought to have been a downburst, about 1910-1911. Fred Dahlinger Jr., Curator of Circus History, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, FL
4111. Germany 1946-49, 24 Nov 2012 - I'm looking any information regarding a female Trapeze act that was part of a German circus troupe that performed in Germany and Europe after the war. I'm doing a search for a member of that group who is now 85 yr - She performed between 1946-1949. The act was billed as "The Stefani Sisters". I would search for variants of "Stefani" as her recollected spelling may not be accurate. She could not provide much detail beyond that. If I had some suggested circus troupe names I could ask her to help narrow it down. She was based in Hamburg. Germany at the time and was looking for work when her friend took her to a circus that had an opening for a female trapeze performer - so she took the job and trained for it. She recalls traveling a lot which she didn't like. She also mentioned that some of the time the act performed in Cabarets. She did trapeze and not high-wire. I'm looking for any leads that may help - with the goal of finding the names of the other performers and maybe some pictures. Thank You in advance for considering my request. CS Hunters Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 4110. Chipperfield Circus, 22 Nov 2012 - I was wondering if you could maybe help me with some information please. Do you have any information on the history of Chipperfield Circus? I believe my great, great grandmother use to work for Chipperfield Circus in 1964 in Johannesburg South Africa. I am busy researching our family tree and come across some divorce papers where she states that she is working for Chipperfield Circus. Her name was Johanna Magel Petronella Errenrich (born Van Heerden). If I’m right she might have been an office clerk. Any information from your side would be so much appreciated please. Thanks and awaiting your response. Erika Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4109. Wazzan Troupe, 20 Nov 2012 - I am in deep search of trying to contact Antar or Beverly Wazzan. Within the past couple of years I obtained their circus outfits from The Star Wars Holiday Special (1978) and was hoping to touch basis with them regarding them as well as having worked on the special. I actually own all five dancers costumes from this act. I was informed by another contact that those running this website may be of some help regarding The Wazzan Troupe. Is there anyway you, or someone you know of, may be of any help in getting me in contact with one of them? I truly would appreciate it, and am open to a phone call any time if easier! Thank you! Jarrod 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 4108. Max Palmer, giant, 20 Nov 2012 - Would anyone here have any knowledge if the famous giant Max Palmer (height seven-feet-seven inches tall) from Clarksdale Mississippi had appeared with any of the circuses in America during 1945-1946? He was about 18 years old at the time. It may have been a smaller show he was traveling with, but I dont know for sure. E.Z. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4107. Circus, Canary, Azores Islands, 17 Nov 2012 - I am seeking any information about a circus that would have traveled among the Canary and Azores Islands in the late 1860s - early 1870s. At age 14, my great-great grandfather Agustin Gonzales, ran away from his Canary Islands home by joining the circus. Family legends states that it traveled through Europe and the Azores Islands. He participated in the circus in several ways: trapeze artist, bareback horse rider, puppeteer, magician, and dancer. He met and married Maria Martins in the Azores, who was also a dancer. She also had a routine whereby she would lift heavy rocks that had been tied using her long hair. Can anybody tell me anything about the specific or type of circus that would have gone through the expense of plying its way through little islands in the atlantic? Thanks! Andrew Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4106. Arturo Trostle, 17 Nov 2012 - The State Fair is in Pensacola and met some people running the fair. I am cab driver. It jarred some memories of meeting some people down in Riverview Florida. In 1987 while working in Tampa I was working in home improvement sales while running one of my leads. I had appt to go see see Arturo Trostle to give presentation about some work on his home in Riverview. At the time I did not know who he was or what he was famous for. However after sitting and talking for a while I found out he and his wife Heidi were a high wire performing act "the Great Arturo" for Ringling Bros Circus. They were very hospitabile and friendly showing me all the old memorabilia and photos. The photos showed alot of him and her in their prime. In 1987 I believe he was in his late 70's. He was still in great shape and had plenty of energy. I asked him how he was staying so healthy he replied that he "keeps himself cleaned out." After elaborating how he keeps his colon unclogged, he went to cupboard and brought out a gallon of aloe vera juice. He said "6-8 ounces of this stuff and nothing slow you down." That started me on my health kick venture to this day. He wanted some improvements on his home. However he had to talk to his "financier," assuming it was his accountant or some family member handling his funds. I had several latter appointments with him however could never get to sign an agreement for the improvements. I believe his son Pepy handled his accounting but could never pin him down. I think he enjoyed the company and I enjoyed his. Robert Galea Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4105. Chapmans circus, 13 Nov 2012 - Having known for years that my great aunt took care of a winter quarters house for Fossetts circus back in Kingsthorpe, Northampton. We could never understand how she came to know them until I started digging into our family tree and realised my great grandmother had lied about her maiden name for years and that in fact her name was Jane Chapman, daughter of Chapmans circus. Does anyone know what happened to Chapmans circus and if any of their decendants are contactable? Many thanks, Anne Marie Adams Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 4104. Col. Snelbaker's, 12 Nov 2012 - Colonel Snelbaker's Overland Shows, toured in 1915, according to Billboard, September 25, 1915, p. 57 (minimal information). I could not find any information on this show under this title. There is a Col. Snelbaker (probably Colonel T. E. Snelbaker) who toured mostly opera houses in the 1880s, sometimes under the title Snelbaker Majestic combination, that seemed to have circus acts at times. Their 1882 newspaper advertisement stated it was a circus, variety & minstrel show combined. T. E. Snelbaker was also manager (sometimes owner) of several different opera houses. My question is the Snelbaker's Overland Shows of 1915 the same person as Col. T. E. Snelbaker? Judy Griffin Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4103. Announcement, 09 Nov 2012 - The Dutch foundation Stichting Circusarchief Jaap Best is proud to present 73 fully digitized vintage circusbooks available online. These books are in French, German, Dutch and English. They are nicely illustrated and some of them are very rare. Please visit our website www.circusmuseum.nl/eng for the circusposters and photo’s or go directly to the books, http://boeken.circusmuseum.nl/. If you have remarks or other comments on our website please respond on this announcement. Soon we will make an Englisch version to make browsing easier. Herman Voogd 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 4102. McCalister, performers, 08 Nov 2012 - My dad told me that his dad's family were in a circus and his grandfather had dropped his sister from a trapeze. Their last name was McCalister. Is there any way to get information on this? My dad would have been 98 so it must have been about 120 plus years ago. Billie Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
4101. Wooden oval, clown, 06 Nov 2012 - I was wondering if anyone can give me some help. I have a hand painted wooden oval 71" tall by 48" wide single clown face. It's colors are the light blue, red and black with off white background. I was told that it was used when the circus traveled by train. It has two metal brackets on the back. I have looked everywhere for some history and can find nothing specific. I appreciate any help! Sassan Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
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