1863

Circuses, New York Clipper, June 6, 1863. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Mr. James M. Nixon, with his Rail Road Circus, pitched canvas in Baltimore on June 1st, on the lot corner of Charles and Camden streets.

Dan Rice's Great Show will be at Buffalo three days this week, commencing on the 4th and closing on the 10th; on the 8th at Dunkirk; 9th at Cattaraugus, and 10th at Olean.

Gardner and Hemming's Circus was at Harrisburg, Pa., on the 28th ult., and their canvas was crowded full. Their busines has been excellent since they first started out. On the 30th they were at Millerstown. On the 7th they are advertised to show at Altoon.

The Nixton-Mecarte circus troupe did a good business at Washington last week.

Yankee Robinson's "Triad" gave a one day show at Watkins, Schuyler Co., N.Y., on the 29th ult.

Gardner & Hemmings' Circus is advertised to show at Pittsburgh three days, commencing on the 15th inst.

Lake's Circus is announced to hoist canvas at Keokuk, Iowa, on June 6th, the wall having been already papered to that effect.

"Sunrise," the famous trained horse, ridden by Miss Adah Isaacs Menken in her character of Mazeppa, is for sale, . . . The Fact that the beautiful animal has been mounted by Miss Menken will add materially to its value, . . .

Stokes' Circus is to exhibit at Utica on June 9th.

Thayer & Noyes' Circus did an immense business at Pittsburgh four days lasat week. Jimmy Robinson's riding was the great attraction. This company were at McKeesport on the 29th ult. They go next to Wheeling, then along up to Zanesville, Newark, and Columbus. On the third night of the show at Pittsburgh, Mr. Albert Aymar, the clown and four horse rider of the show, got into an altercation with the bar-keeper of the Scott House, Pittsburgh, and for his display of the "manly art," was introduced to the Mayor, who mulcted him to the tune of $30.

L. B. Lent's Equescurriculum will show at Geneva June 3d, Canandaigua 4th, Palmyra 5th, Rochester 6th, Batavia 8th, and Lancaster 9th.

Stokes' Circus will exhibit at Rome June 10th, Camden 11th, Pulaski 12th, Adams 13th, Watertown 15th, Cape Vincent 16th, Oswego 17th, Fulton 18th, Baldwinville 19th, Syracuse 20th.

Yankee Robinson's wife is lying dangerously ill.

The opening of Nixon's Cremorne Circus troupe at Baltimore has been postponed until the 8th inst.

Van Amburgh's Menagerie is in the Western part of Iowa.

Sand's Circus (Forshay party) are in the vicinity of Boston, Mass.

Circuses, New York Clipper, July 25, 1863. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Gardner & Hemming's Circus will visit New Castle, Ohio, on the 29th, and Coshocton, 30th.

Dan Rice is at Brooklyn three days this week, commencing on Tuesday.

Brian's National Circus pitch tent on Falls Field, Rochester on the 28th, and make a two days stay of it. [Brien's? Bryan's?]

The Nixon Marcarte troupe opened at Harrisburg, Pa. on the 14th, and remained all week. There was a large number of soldiers there who had just been paid off, and business with the show was in consequence very good. Thad. Barton is Business Manager.

The R. Sands' Company has been doing a very good business way down East in the lumber regions. James Melville and family, the latest arrival in particular, are the principal features of the show. On the 24th inst. the concern was at Dover, Me., Dexter 25th, Newport 27th, and is advertised to be this week at Skowhegan 28th, Brampton 29th, Toronto 30th and 31st, and Markham 1st of August.

Stokes' Circus visited Syracuse on the 25th, and was to remain on the 27th.

Miles' Circus Royale has been doing a very fair business since the company has left the "Lent Show" route. Charley Peel, the former advance agent, has left the show, and T. R. Toole, one of the proprietors, is now ahead. On the 25th, St. Catherines was their stand. This week they open at Hamilton, Grafton, and through the northern counties of Canada.

Thayer & Noyes' U.S. Circus open this week at St. Louis on the 27th, and remain six days. As there are a large number of soldiers in the city just paid off, there is a fair prospect of the boys doing a big business.

Yankee Robinson's "Triad" was at Valparaiso, Ind. 21st inst., Crown Point 22d, and Momence 23d.

S. O. Wheeler's International Circus remained a second week at Halifax, closing there on the 25th.

Prof. Geo. Orrin and family were performing on the National Circus Ground, San Francisco, Cal., June 29th at an exhibition under the management of Sherry Corbyn.

Van Vleck & Dan Castello's Circus was at Winona, Minn. on the 17th, St. Paul 18th, and was to return to those towns in a month.

Lee, Worrell & Sebastian's Circus was at Virginia City, N.T., on the 1st, 2d, 3d, and 4th July. On the second day the canvas was blown down and so injured, that the company was unable to perform. Senor Sebastian, lady and son, Geo. Ryland, and Wm. Worrell are in the show.

The following is the route of Thayer & Noyes' Circus for next week: Alton, Aug. 3; Jerseyville, 4th; Carrollton, 5th; White Hall, 6th; Winchester, 7th; and Jacksonville, 8th.

Mabie's Menagerie was to show at Keokuk, Iowa on the 23d of July.

Circuses, New York Clipper, September 16, 1863. Information should be checked with additional sources.

S. O. Wheeler's International Circus, a correspondent says, is doing a splendid business in the small towns of New Hampshire. The Granite State boys turned out in full strength. Quite an amusing incident occurred at the Quaker town of Lebanon on the 10th. Jimmy De Mott was commencing to play the act known as "Pete Jenkins," and he had just entered the ring when loud calls of "put him out," from the auditors were heard; two indefatigable policemen made a lunge at Jimmy, but the affair was soon explained to them, much to their disgust. The Wild Men of Borneo are in the side show with thin company.

Maginley's Circus commenced last week's tour at Mound City on the 7th, and following up to Cairo on the 8th; Columbus, 9th and 10th; Hickman, 11th; New Madrid, 12th; and opened in Memphis on the 13th. Business continues to be excellent.

Robinson & Bros. Circus is at present in Illnois. The followIng is the proposed route ahead for the present week: Equality, 14th; Galatia, 15th; Benton, 16th; and Myrion, 17th.

Mabie's Menagerie and Circus is advertised to pitch tent at Vincennes, Ind., on the 24th inst., for one day only.

Ned and Charlie Straight are running the side show with Maginley's Circus, and have Johnny Cole, Joe Childs, Geo. P. Madden, Al. Boyce, and Miss Lizzle Walker.

Those very talented young gymnasts, Messrs. Hogle add Keefe,, have been very successful in their coastwise trip since they left this city. They left New York in the fall of 1861, and went to Havana with Messrs. Avery, Smith & Quick's Circus. They remained at the Villanueva Amphitheatre during the winter of 1861-2, and then set sail for the East Indies. Since which time the following letter from them will post our readers as to their past present and future whereabouts:

Rio de Janeiro, Aug. 4th, 1863.

Friend Queen: We have returned from our, trip through the country, and are well satisfied with our reception, and flatter ourselves we have left a good name behind us. We found here on our arrival an alarming array of talent, only needing our champion rider, Jimmy Robinson, to complete the list, the Hanlons, as usual, were a complete success, taking the people by surprise and completely annihilating a French party here who advertised that all "Americans were children compared to them." William Hanlon performed his flying trapeze, and one of the Frenchmen in attempting one of his tricks broke his arm in three places. They have left for France. Spalding & Rogers did a good business, though not so successful as on their first visit. They left here for Bahia on the first of this mouth. George Sharp was not to be found when the vessel was ready, so they went without him, much against their will. Our party are all well, George Sweet looking younger than ever. We leave this month for Montevideo, from which place you will hear again from Hogle & Keefe.

Dan Costello and Van Vleck's Multiserial Combination Circus and Homohippodal Amphitheatre is now in its eighteenth week of a very successful season, through the principal towns of Iowa. Owing to their increased success during the past two weeks the management have concluded to remain out longer than it was at first intended. They expect to reach St. Louis about the second week in October. They will then re-organize, and start out afresh on a winter's campaign through the land of Dixie. Performers will do well to bear this in mind, as a number of first class artists are wanted. Among the company at present are the following: Tom Burgess, W. J. Smith, Messrs. Burrows and Kelly, (trapeze); John Glenroy, John Tinkham, Harman, Burns, McCullom, Eddy, Madames Costello and Charlotta. Dan Costello is manager; Tom Poland, master of the arena; and J. B. Murphy and L. Van Vleck ahead with the bill wagon, constituting a very strong team. The trick horse "Monitor" and the educated bull "Don Juan" are said to be two good cards.

1864

New York Clipper, April 9, 1864. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Geo. Bailey opens in St. Louis with the Hippopotamus Show on the 18th inst.

Jerry Mabie lost one of his best performing elephants a short time since at Delavan, Wis. The cause of the animal's death was from being over fed. Jerry has purchased another elephant from Mr. Avery Smith, now on its way to this country from Europe.

New York Clipper, August 20, 1864, p. 150. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Maurice Sands, with Slaymaker & Nichols' Circus, in a letter dated Halifax, N. S., Aug. 5th, says, "Our business here has been quite good; it would have been immense had the weather been clear; it's like the fall of the year, and persons feel comfortable with overcoats on. We will be in Yarmouth on the 15th, and in Windsor on the 25th or 26th. We intend also to go to Prince Edward's Island. Miss Frank Nixon is with us. We have had quite an addition to our company since we started, viz.: the original Arabs. At the close of our performance, a concert is given by R. Sands, clog-dancer; Fred McEvoy, comic singer; Dr. Allen, comic songs and duets, and Miss Frank Nixon, danseuse and vocalist.

Billy Kennedy, the clever clown attached to Mrs. C. Warner's Circus, has left that concern, for the following reason: Mr. Kennedy, during the travels of the show, has been in the habit of singing a McClellan song, which has always been received with earnest applause. The Warner concern was announced to perform in Reading, Pa., on the 8th inst.; but before commencing, one of the managing men of the show informed Mr. Kennedy that he must not sing the McClellan song; Billy replied that he performed to please the people, and that if he entered the ring that evening he would sing his song in favor of Little Mac; he was again told that he should not; so he bundled up his traps, and left. It is a little singular that the managing man should taboo the McClellan song in old Berks, which will roll up a big majority for the hero of Antietam, should he enter upon the Presidential race. Mr. Kennedy need not want for a sit.; he is a good clown, and many managers will be glad to secure him.

Mabie's Menagerie was at Council Bluff, Iowa, on the 2d inst. During the evening performance a storm came up, and knocked the canvas higher than a kite, and the "top" was entirely consumed by fire. On its way to Council Bluff, the day previous, the party broke through a bridge, injuring the horses, and one of the men was seriously hurt. The baggage wagon had a "histing," the wardrobe laid loose for a short time.

Robinson and Howe's Champion Circus will exhibit at Great Valley, N.Y., on the 17th, and Jamestown 18th.

L. B. Lent's Equescurriculum will pitch tent at the following places this and the coming week: Lincoln, Ill., 17th, Atlanta 18th, Clinton 19th, Decatur 20th, Bloomington 22d, Lexington 23d, Pontiac 24th, El Paso 25th, Metamora 26th, and Winona 27th.

The route ahead for the Mrs. Warner Circus is as follows: Trenton, N.J. 15th, Lambertville 16th, Frenchtown 17th, Bethlehem, Pa. 18th, Allentown 19th, Easton 20th, Belvidere, N.J. 22d, Newton 23d, Deckertown 24th, and Port Jervis 25th. Young Sam Stickney joined the party at Trenton as a clown.

Stone Rosston & Co.'s Circus exhibits in Boston, Mass. on the Fiar Grounds, four days this week, commencing on the 16th. On the 20th, the party shows at South Boston.

The Melville Australian Circus took, it is said, at Leavenworth, Kansas, for three performances, July 4th, nearly $5,000. If true, this beats the Equescurriculum party.

Circuses, New York Clipper, March 19, 1864. Not complete, missing text. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Madame Wheeler, the accomplished English equestrienne, with her famous hourse Skip, may be engaged for the coming season . . . The lady is said to be a daring and graceful rider, and well worthy the attention of our enterprising circus managers.

A side show and candy stand privileges are advertised for disposal by Yankee Robinson in this issue.

Tom King's Excelsior Circus Troupe, as it is called, commenced a short season in Philadelphia on 12 inst.

Circuses, New York Clipper, March 20, 1864. Not complete, missing text. Information should be checked with additional sources.

The competition in spangles, tights and sawdust things is to be lively and refreshing the coming season, a large number of circus shows making extensive preparations for the spring and summer season of 1864. What with circuses, menageries, nigger singers, panoramas, monkey shows, and moral lessons, our country friends will not be lonesome. But of all of these, the circus is the thing to entice rurals from their bundling enjoyments, and make them don their prettiest store clothes. The arrival of a circus is always an important event in the history of Harscrabble, Timbuctoo, Tilletudlum, and other places of like character. It is in such cities that the clown revels in fun. However ancient or ill used his jokes may be, the Hardscrabbler never fail to enjoy them; and the more the jester is cut up by the whip of his master, the greater is the delight of "Josiah and his Sallie." They laugh with all their might and strength; the wriggle like fresh eels in a keg of whiskey; and the comments are mor ludicrous than the repartees of the man of motley. We don't know who has the best of the fun, the audience or the circus; the thing the latter has a trifle the advantage, as the sport costs them nothing. Well, let us say to our country cousins and "store" keepers, the "boys" are getting ready for their annual visits, and that there will be some rare shows upon the roads this campaign. The thrifty farmer and his frugal spouse will have plenty of opportunities to make permanent investments of their money. The band chariots, the highly caparisoned steeds, the comic mules, the spotted horses, the mustachioed tumblers and riders and money takers, will make a procession that shall resurrect the earth grubbers and the tillers of the soil. The planters will find planted among them for one day only, many a "plant" of questionable derivation, for weeks will spring up among the choicest flowers, and bogus shows will follow in the wake of good ones. They are coming, fellow countymen, as they came in days of yore, with posters huge, and pictures bring, and all in "gay galore;" they are coming, fellow countrymen, with canvas strong and wide, so jump into the wagon, boys, and all take a ride; bring 'Doll and Bet, and Sal and Kate," and all the little fry, and "go it while you're young," boys, and "root hog or die."

Circuses all over the country are busily preparing for the approaching tenting campaign. Last season was a most lucrative one. In fact, such a prosperous term was never before experienced, and with but two exceptions (the Canada Show and a New York concern) every manager coined money. The Van Amburgh Show did an immense business, their receipts nearly doubling those of the former season, and took more money than any other show on the road. Inspired by the great success of the last campaign, the managers during the past few months have one and all been striving to the utmost to start out the coming season in better style than ever, feeling confident of brilliant returns; although not so much so as last season, owing to the great excitement attending a Presidential contest, which always sweeps over the whole country, and for a while kills every other excitement. With this single exception there is no reason why the sawdust should not reign as supreme as before. Greenbacks and postal are as plentiful now as of yore, and promise to continue so. The circus has ever been, and will ever continue to be a favorite attraction with all classes. It has every element of popularity in its composition. It is instinctive with man to admire extraordinary feats of strength and dexterity, however displayed; and admiration of horses is equally universal. A hearty laugh is enjoyment expressed. The exercises of the arena administer to all these tastes and requirements; hence the favor with which they are received by all classes. We now present our readers - as is our custom at the opening of every season - in advance of all others, with a complete list of all the companies that will be on the road this season. Among them will be found several new aspirants for circus management, who have put their best foot forward to compete with older and more experienced managers:

Messrs. Lake & Co. start with a new outfit of wagons, trappings, &c., also several new features both for the ring and public entree of the show in town. The following is a list of the company: Managers, Messrs. Lake & Norten; business manager, F. H. Bailey; treasurer, S. C. J. Thayer; equestrian director, L. W. Perry; master of the circle, Sig. Costello. The performers are as follows: Mesdames Agnes and Perry, La Belle Jennett, La Petite Alice; Messrs. Wm. Lake, John Lowlow, Silas Baldwin, Lazelle Brothers, Geo. Sebastian, and E. W. Perry and family. The Melville Australian Circus is a new concern started under the management of James Melville, one of the most dashing and daring bare-back riders in the country. The company consists of James Melville, Mad. Jeannette Ellssler, tight rope performer, Mad. Louise; the Australian Family, Nat Austin, one of the best clowns that walks the sawdust ring; the Conrad Brothers, Young Barry, James Cameron, Charles Parker, contortionist; Messrs. Hembold, Johannsen, Fredericks, Kaunissa, Gilbert, Graff, Walters, Zartier, Masters Eddie, Charles, Willie and Frank; the trick mules Jim and Jerry. F. A. Keeler is manager, and R. S. Dingess, agent.

The Equescurriculum, under the management of L. B. Lent, will start out with an entire new outfit; new wagons, built expressly for the manager by the well known Abbotts, of Concord; new sets of harness, made by Lyman J. Lloyd, of Albany; new tent, by Higgins, and band chariot by the Abbotts. The company is as follows: S. P. Stickney, Bob Stickney, Joe Pentland, James and Charles Madigan, W. A. Donnovan, Charles Shay, Wm. Ducrow, H. Forrest, John C. Rivers, Francois and LeJeune Siegrist, Md'lle. Marietta Zanfretta, Charley Fuller, contracting agent; and Mr. Sheppard, treasurer. In addition to the above attractions, there will be the performing dogs and monkeys, bears, buffalo, and sacred bull, forming a combination not easily surpassed by any other organization on the road.

The Van Amburgh party, Hyatt Frost, manager, will have, as they always do, the most extensive show on wheels. Besides the large collection of animals they already had, a large number of very rare animals have during the past winter been imported expressly for this concern. They will have the only living giraffe in the country, also many other animals of various kinds too numerous to mention. The performing Elephant, Tippo Saib, is one of their attractions. This company will turn out ninety people, forty-five wagons and one hundred and thirty-six horses.

Seth Howe's wagons and one hundred and thirty-six horses. The Seth Howe's Circus and Menagerie, which will shortly arrive from England, will rank next after the Van Amburgh show. They bring over to this country a host of talented performers; the most noted being Crockett, said to be one of the greatest lion tamers the world has ever seen. A large collection of performing animals will arive with this show, which, together with the gymnasts and equestrians will doubtless be a big thing in the show world.

Thayer and Noyes' United States Circus and Menagerie, which will start from Girard, Pa., promises to be a tip-topper. Besides a good corps of performers, they have secured nine cages of animals from the Van Amburgh party. The company consists of Dr. Jas. L. Thayer, Charley Noyes, Chas. Reed, Geo. Batchellor, Messrs. Ashton and Penny, Sam Stickney, Jr., S. C. Jackson, John Saunders and Master Frank Ashton. Mr. Howard will be treasurer, and Andy Springer advertising agent. This show will spread a great dea. of pictorial printing. Van Amburgh's elephant Hannibal (the largest in the world) goes along to make up a nice little tea party. There will also be the educated mules, performing monkeys, and a new trick horse called Grey Eagle, Jr., trained and performed by Charley Noyes.

The Metropolitan Circus, with Alec Robinson as manager, and M. J. Robinson proprietor, has the following talent: Hiram Day, Charles Covelli, Manking, Williams, Mons. Levi, Mme. Marie Robinson, Mlle. Annie, Mlle. Eugene DeLoome, La Farie Henrietta, Boyd Robinson, Gro. Brown, Oliver Dodge, Samuel Rhinehart and Geo. Saunders. Also, educated horses, ponies, mules, and a magnificent band chariot.

Mabie's Menagerie starts out much improved in appearance and with several valuable additions to their already large collection of animals. They start from the far West. George Bronson accompanies the show as advertiser. There will be no performances in the ring except by the animals.

Gardner and Hemmings' Circus starts from Philadelphia, and will have in the show, Dan Gardner, Dick Hemmings, John Rivers, Frank Carpenter, Sig. De Louis, Frank Whittaker, Geo. Brown, Eliza Gardner, Mme. Camilla, La Petite Cammila, Young Dan and the Syro-Arabic troupe of male and female Arabs. A new band chariot has been built by the Fielding Brothers, of this city, at an expense of $5,000. Fred Dubois will be treasurer, and Wm. H. Gardner, Agent.

A new company under the proprietorship of Slaymaker, Brian, and others, starts out from Philadelphia, but we have not been enabled to learn their company.

Rivers and Derious also start out a new concern from Philadelphia. The company is said to be a good one. John Foster is the clown.

The Yankee Robinson goes out as bright and as happy as any of 'em. The Yankee says that he is not at liberty to give a list of his company at present. He says he starts from Peoria, Ill., about the last of April, with a complete new outfit, and a new chariot built by Quimby & Co., of Newark, N.J. One of his principal features in the ring will be the military equestrian drama of the "Battle of Chattanooga, or, the Storming of Lookout Mountain," in which twenty men and horses take an active part. Twelve Tableaux Vivants will also be performed.

Dan Rice will go out with a Variety Show consisting of performing Dogs, Monkeys, Mules and that horse Excelsior, under the management of Dr. Spaulding. This show will travel by railroad.

Robinson and Howe (Chicago Circus) start a Railroad Show from that city. R. P. Jones goes with the show.

De Haven and Castello's Show starts from St. Paul, Minn., with Gil Eaton as the Avant Courier. Castello will do the clowning and show up a herd of performing Buffaloes.

The R. Sands Show stock has been bought by the Seth Howe's party from England.

The S. O. Wheeler Show starts from Boston, and will this season have two new partners, one of whom is Mr. Hitchcock, a well known sport of that city. Sam Wesler will do the clowning for this party. The Sherwood family, Bobby Williams, Jack Showles and wife and Billy Odell have been engaged. Joe Cushing will give a variety entertainment in the big canvas at the close of big show.

Another new combination will start from this city and will be known as Stone, Rosston & Co.'s New York Circus. The company consists of Den Stone, Eaton Stone, Frank Rosston and the Siegrist family. The Iroquois Indians and a herd of Buffalos will be among the attractions offered.

Dr. Spauling will run a Railroad Show with Frank Pastor as clown.

Another new concern is talked about to be managed by James Wilder, a well known showman, and who has just returned from San Francisco where he has been showing a Panorama with success.

John L. Howes, Treasurer of Robinson & Howes' Chicago Circus, took a benefit on the 18th inst.

Yankee Robinson notifies his company through our columns this week, that he expects to meet them at Peoria, Ill., on the 26th of April.

Tom King's Circus did a tolerable business in Philadelphia during the opening week. The gentleman who "writes up" the programmes says: "The scenes nightly given are vivid and thrilling, grand and entertaining, classical and impressive, and are rendered in a style that cannot help fascinating all beholders, and transferring them upon wings of delight to the abode of the gods and goddesses." Bully for the transferring scenes.

Circuses, New York Clipper, May 26, 1864, p. 54. Not complete, missing text. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Yankee Robinson's Circus performed in Quincy, Ill., on the 14th inst., and both at the afternoon and evening performance the canvas was crowded. The Quincy Herald, of the 15th inst. says: "Yankee Robinson's great show, circus and menagerie has at length arrived, and our big ones and little ones will now rest content, having seen the great High-yankee-dank. This wonderful combination of menageries, circuses and shows entered out city yesterday with a pageant procession, formed of its extensive trains of chariots, cages, wagons, &c., and headed by the magnificent forty-horse band car, which in itself was a sight worth seeing. Two performances were given yesterday, one in the afternoon and one in the evening, and at each exhibition a continual stream of human heads poured into the immense pavilion. Fifteen years ago Yankee Robinson came to Quincy with a room show, and started here to make a fortune with a tent which he made with his own hands. He must have felt proud, yesterday, to witness the change, and note how successful his attempt is to witness the change, and note how successful his attempt is now in a city where he had once labored ineffectually to cater to the taste for popular amusements. The exhibitions yesterday were immense successes, and Charley Parker, the clown, of that talking lexicon wit, humor and inimitable burlesque, kept the mass of people that jammed in under the large pavilion in a continual roar of laughter by his side-splitting jokes, imported gags and original style."

Dan Castello's Circus was at Lawrence, Kansas, May 4th and 5th; Leavenworth, 7th and 8th; Weston, Mo., 9th; Atchison, 10th; St. Joseph, 11th and 12th; and was to go thence up the river to Nebraska City, Council Bluffs, Omaha, Plattsmouth, Brownsville and Forest City, and return to St. Joe about the 24th. They gave three shows in one day at Nebraska City, 10 A.M. and 2 and 7 P.M., at $1 admission. They did a splendid business in Leavenworth, the canvas being so crowded, we are told, that the management requested many of those who were standing to go out and get their money returned, which they declined to do. Tim Woodruff's Minstrels gave a show at the close of the circus performance. The Siegel Children, Emily and Fred, Johnny Fielding and Johnny Redden, late of the Academy of Music, Nashhville, are among the performers.

S. O. Wheeler's Circus is posted ahead as follows: Laconia, N. H., 22d; Alton Corners, 23d; Rochester, 24th; Dover, 25th; Great Falls, 26th; Biddeford, Me., 28th, and Portland, 29th and 30th.

Lake's Hippo-Olympiad is billed at Chillicothe, Ohio for the 23d inst.

Accident to Dan Rice's Circus - On the 11th inst. as Dan Rice's Circus was making ints procession through the streets of Leighton, Pa., the horses in the band chariot in passing a tannery took fright from the stench arising from the same, and becoming uncontrollable, ran away, throwing the driver from his seat, in which he sustained injuries to such an extent as to jeopardize his life. The team on coming down to the hotel in its mad career, was confronted by a party of lookers on, with a view to arrest them, but just at this time the horses on the lead made a sudden spread, and some four or five persons were run over; one of them sustained injuries of such a nature that he is not expected to recover, the front wheel of the chariot having struck him on the side of the head. Five of the horses fell, and some were run over by the wagon, sustaining severe injuries. Those remaining attached to the wagon finally broke the rear pole, and dashed past the caravan without however touching a single wagon, and were finally secured. Same day one of the black headed Palatine sheep died. This show has had quite a series of severe mishaps since the opening of the season. . . .

Circuses, New York Clipper, October 15, 1864, p. 214. Some missing text. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Yankee Robinson is, beyond question, one of the real live sort of Yankees, as is proven by the way he drives his Big Show from place to place, until he has gone over almost the whole of the western country during the season just closing. His show pleases, evidently, and the Chatfield, Min., Democrat, of a recent date, says of it: "Yankee Robinson's Big Show exhibited here on Tuesday last, afternoon and evening, to crowded houses. To say that the 'Big Show' is a success, is but to reiterate the expression of all who visited the exhibition while here. The perfect delineations and superior acting of Yankee Robinson were received with great applause - he is a whole show within himself. The feats of contortion performed by that wonderful man, Don Santiago Gibbonnoise, who has no eaual in his line, are almost incredible; he is truly a 'boneless man,' and his acts alone are worth the price of admission. In fact, the acting of the whole company is good, and well worthy the patronage of the public. During the stay of the company here, their conduct was that of gentlemen, and the best of order and good feeling prevailed in and around the canvas. Should this excellent company ever visit us again, they will be cordially received and greeted with crowded seats. We cheerfully recommend Yankee Robinson and his Big Show to the kind consideration of the press and the public wherever he may spread his canvas. 'Stand down the hall.'" The Yankee has made money this season and he has recently bought a farm of 400 acres in Rice County, Minnesota Territory, and were it not that his son Silas is dangerously sick, he might rejoice with exceeding great joy at his prosperity. The Big Show was at St. Paul on the 28th ult., and showed twince to full houses. On the 3d inst., it was to be at Hasting, thence to go to Red Wing, Lake City, Wabashaw, Mineiska, Winona, Lacrosse, Sparta, Richland Centre, Plattville, Dubuque, Galena, Elizabeth, Mount Carroll, Lyons, Dewitt, Davenport, and then disband.

The Rollande Brothers, with William Duverna, have an excellent reputation as gymnasts and acrobatic artists. . . .

Van Amburgh & Co's Menagerie exhibits at Arlington, Vt., 10th; Hoosic Falls, N.Y>, 11th; Schaghticoke, 12th; Schuylerville, 13th; Saratoga Springs, 14th; and Galway, 15th of Oct. The people continue to pour out in immense throngs to see the giraffe and the other "critters" comprised in the collection. During the week ending Oct. 1st, the Menagerie showed fourteen times.

Spalding & Rogers' Ocean Circus was to show in Chicago, Ill. on the 6th, 7th and 8th, and probably there and then close for the season. The "Family Steam Carriage" has proved a big card for the Circo Grande Oceanico, people coming from every direction to see it, and then going - right home again. Nice people

Harry Whitby says the National Circus Company has been using his own name, and the name of his family, without authority, as he is in no way connected with the concern. . . .

Mr. Henry Cooke, with his performing dogs and monkeys, will be disengaged after the 23d of the present month, and is prepared to negotiate for other engagements for the winter season, previous to his return to Europe. . . .

Messrs. Thayer & Noyes, of the United States Circus, are erecting a large amphitheatre in Washington for the winter, which will open on or about Nov. 1st. Doctor Thayer is at present in that city superintending the work.

1866

New York Clipper, March 3, 1866, p. 37. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Rough on Show Agents. The agent for a well-known show, now in the South, thinks he can benefit some of his fellow agents by calling the attention of any who think of visiting Nashville, Tenn., to an ordinance recently passed by the city authorities there, which is being rigidly enforced. It forbids any one to "paste up any paper" upon any building, without the consent not only of the occupant, but likewise of the owner thereof, and it also forbids them to post upon any "wall, fence, tree, post, sidewalk, step, or object in the street." Two or three arrests took place lately, and one of the offenders was fined $10 and costs for posting a "half Sheet" bill on a dilapidated old wall, without having the consent of the owner to do so, though he had always been granted the privilege by the lessee of the premises. One of the city officials objected to our friend posting his bills on the market, because the display of them had "an immoral effect upon the community." "A lady," remarked this Dogberry, "cannot walk our streets without seeing pictures of nude women in various indecent postures upon every corner." Agents who have any cuts in the "set," the sight of which might offend the gaze of the fastidious, had better put long dresses on all the female figures before they bill Nashville. Don't "paste up any paper" on anything, from a six story house to an "object in the street," without having obtained the fullest authority to do so, for if you do you will surely find yourselves one week's salary "out," while the city treasury, (or perhaps the pocket of some official) will be a corresponding sum richer.

Circuses, New York Clipper, March 10, 1866, p. 383. Not complete, missing text. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Circus companies in the South and Southwest seem to be doing a very good business. The following letter is from a member of De Haven's show, dated Red River, Feb. 15h. He says: "I now sit down to give you a little insight of our travels in Texas. We arrived in Galveston on the 25th of November, and played there five days to overflowing houses; thence to Houston, where we turned away people; took railroad to Richmond, and there hired transportation on through to San Antonio, where we played one week to crowded houses, including Sunday. We then bought some horses and hired the rest, and set out through the wilds of Texas on towards Shreveport, La., and of all countries this beats all. Talk of Hottentots, cannibals, barbarians! here they are everything but civilized, whooping and hollowing, shooting, and all come to the show with pistols and knives; they shoot through the canvas, and call you names that are not very pleasant to hear, and we have to take it all. We had no fuss with them, as we dare not open our mouths. They soot all around us as we go to and from the canvas. Once in a while we came across a man that knows something, but not often. We have now all our own conveyances. Our admission here was $1 in specie, or $1.50 in greenbacks, though we don't see many greenbacks, only where the Union soldiers are. For the horses, all we could get was corn, and poor at that. The horses all stand out doors. You can always find a shingle up at a grocery, go in and you will find a barrel of whiskey made here, and it will kill two hundred yards at sight, also a few cards of gingerbread and some oysters. But after all we have made money, and sals. are paid every Sunday. Old Man Haight pays up good; he is going to make a good showman; this is his first season. He started from Beaver Dam, Wis., last April, and has run ever since. He intends to make this an eighteen months' trip. He bought out De Haven's interest at Vicksburg last fall, but runs under his name as long as the bills hold out with his name on. Doc. Chambers is our agent; Ben McGinley, contracting agent and assistant manager. We had three horses stolen from us in Bellevue, first town out of Henderson. We opened in Shreveport, La., on Feb 12th, after a long and tedious journey maong the Yah-hoos and ???, who would put a six-shooter to your mouth and ask you if that was good for a ticket, and one half the time in mud and the other half quarreling to get something to eat. But we came out safe and sound and brought all our stock with us, but it was quite a difficulty on our part to do so. The company are all well, and start for Mobile, Feb. 18th. Mrs. Maginley (Mary Carroll) is riding a splendid act better than ever, and has made a tremendous hit in Shreveport. Barney Carroll is with the company, and is looking as young as ever, leaping over eight and ring horses every day. Ben Maginley made his first appearance in the ring at Shreveport, and made a hit as clown. The company consists of W. B. Carroll, Master Willie, Berdeau, Carr, Naylor Brothers, Bliss Family, P. H. Seamon and Cary, clowns; Billy Manning, Harry Blond, Alex. Prentice, John somers, Master Hubert, Master Jimmy, W. A. JOhnson, Mlle. Marie and Mrs. Carroll."

Van Amburgh's Menagerie, which has been wintering in Connersville, Ind., is being got into shape for the coming season. Over twenty mechanics are employed repairing, painting, gild-scrolling and getting ready. They have several small elephants and large tigers, a white peacock, and many rare animals, now in New York, ready for shipping West, as soon as the weather will permit. H. Dougherty is building a new six centrepole tent. The Fielding Brothers are putting up a new golden chariot, to be sent West in the spring. Things look as though they were going out large. Hyatt Frost and Barnum are stopping there. Knapp, Taylor and Fred Lewis are looking after the horse; Noah Davis, Hyatt, Grinsley and Wade are seeing to the animals; Simpson attends to the canvas, and W. Weed is boss of ??? and building new cages; Cladd Dyke, of Philadelphia, is captain of the paint brigade, and things look prosperous.

Thayer and Noyes' Circus arrived in Mobile, Ala. on Feb. 18th, and opened the following night, and business continued big until the 22d, when a heavy rain brought a shy house. The company was to leave there on March 1st for New Orleans, and go thence into Texas with the wagons.

G. F. Orrin's Circus was to close in La Guira on Feb. 13th, and sail for Maracaibo.

New York Clipper, March 31, 1866, p. 407. Not complete, missing text. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Lipman & Stokes Circus is a new enterprise and starts from Cincinnati. The company will be one of the largest traveling, including Eaton Stone, Chas. Fish, Mad. Worland, Annie Worland, the Wilson Brothers, Walter Wentworth and wife, Sig. Costello and dogs, Charles Lowery, Henry Gardiner, Hiram Marks, wife and daughter, George Maddern, Doctor Allen, John Foster and Henry Ruggles, the Holland Family and a full corps of performers. They have purchased the steamer Marietta, with which they will travel upon the western waters.

Metcalfe's Champs Elysees Circus has wintered in Louisville, and commenced the season about the 1st of May. Among the performers already engaged are Levi J. North and son, and Frank Whittaker.

Yankee Robinson's Consolidation starts from Fort Wayne, Ind. The principal attractions offered the public by the Yankee will be that portion of wild animals belonging to the Mabie Menagerie, with the O'Brien show last season. He also has a baby elephant, performing bears, a number of gymnastic performers, consisting of E. W. Perry, Little Minnie, Miss Jennie, H. Smith, Prof. Sears, the lion tamer, Herr Galvo, M'lle Smyth, the Snow Brothers, Don Santiago Gibbonnoise, L. H. Everett, J. Hopper, C. Mayett, George Seaver, Masters Charlie, Willie and Eddie. The Yankee says he intends having one of the biggest shows on the road.

New York Clipper, May 5, 1866, p. 31. Not complete, missing text. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Circus Affray. Jno. Robinson's Circus, while exhibiting in Crittenden, Ky., April 25th, had a little disturbance with a gang of ruffians, who made a deadly assault upon some of the performers because they would not be allowed to pass in free. The gand numbered over twenty men, all armed, but they did not anticipate so warm a reception as they received. The circus men fourght desperately with hatchets, not having prepared for a skirmish, and succeeded in severely wounding five of six of their assailants. The wounded men were carried into the hotel of the place, where their wounds were dressed by physicians to whom they were known, and they were removed before daylight. Who they are, and where they are, is known to many, but to no one who has the courage to give the information to the authorities. The outlaws, we learn, are, for the most part, returned rebel soldiers, or rather raiders. They call themselves the "Regulators," and it is their special business to regulate the negroes, causing a reign of terror such that the freed people are held in awe, not venturing from one farm to another, and by no means presuming to leave a man for whom they are at work. The persons who attacked the circus are well known about Crittenden. They go up and down the country at pleasure, and make themselves at home wherever they are, never paying for what they take, consuming and destroying according to their humor. They had boasted that Robbinson's Circus would not give an exhibition in Crittenden, and made a disturbance expressly to spoil the show. No one of the circus boys was killed, but a bullet from a revolver wounded Mr. James Roberts, a canvas man.

Haight and Chambers' Circus exhibited in Atlanta, Ga., the first three days last week.

Dan Rice's Circus exhibits in Lancaster, Pa. on the 3d inst.

S. B. Howes' Mammoth European Circus and Menagerie appear in Bel Air lot, Baltimore, on the 21st.

Lipman & Stokes' Circus is billed ahead as follows: Portsmouth, Ohio, May 1st; Ironton, 2d; Guyandotte, 3d; Gallipolis, 4th; Pomeroy, 5th; Parkersburg, 7th; Marietta, 8th; and Wheeling, Va., 9th and 10th.

Circuses, New York Clipper, May 19, 1866, p. 46. Not complete, missing text. Information should be checked with additional sources.

James D. Robinson and John Robinson, Jr., who were badly wounded at the circus affray in Crittenden, Ky., lately, are slowly recovering and expect to join the show shortly.

De Haven's Circus was to have started from St. Paul, Minn., on the 5th inst., but their canvas was burnt up on the railroad, and they will be delayed until they have a new one made. This makes the second accident that has occurred since they were ready to start. first they lost all their printing, when the Enquirer office was burnt, and now their canvas, at he very time it was most needed. They expect to have another one in about two weeks.

Fight Between Wild Beasts. On the 5th inst., while Yankee Robinson's Circus was being exhibited on the Fair Ground at Augusta, Ill., the big bear of the collection got loose and made for the bison, who gave the bear a lively game. The fight was a fierce one - the animals in the cages shook their cages, and the ignorant bystanders were, at first, panic-stricken. The showmen rushed to the work of separating the combatants, and while so engaged, the Black Lion got out, and with a bound and roar commenced hunting up a fight on his own hood, the outsiders taking to the trees. It is said there was some tall climbing; one man got partly up a tree when a second person tore his coat-tails off trying to get up too. The Baby elephant, in the mean time, not knowing what else to do, and not being old enough for a free-fight, commenced tearing up the young saplings, and throwing them around. Some seven or eight of the showmen succeeded in chaining up the bison, and then, by main force, dragged the bear away from him. A good cowhiding settled the question with his majesty, the black lion, and peace reigned in Warsaw. Yankee says that he had no applications for complimentary tickets during that performance.

Frank Howe's Circus was at Milwaukee, Wis. on the 4th and 5th inst. On the 22d inst. the show is to be in Oshkosh, Wis. Mad. Macarte is with the concern.

Dan Castello's Circus was at St. Joseph, Mo., on the 11th and 12th inst. At that point they were to take ??? to Omaha, Council Bluffs, &c., and return to St. Joseph. Thence through Kansas to St. Charles, and up the Mississippi River as far as St. Paul and St. Anthony. Dan Castello's Circus exhibited in Atchison, Kansas on the 10th inst.

Haight and Chambers disposed of their baggage stock at Atlanta, Ga., and took rail, which has so far proved more satisfactory to the managers. The show was in Louisville, Ky. last week, and nothwithstanding the weather was bad, business is said to have been good. Ben Maginley is the clown and seems to give satisfaction.

The Great Western Circus was billed to perform in Tunkhannock, Pa. on the 14th inst.

Lee and Byland are at present running a circus company in San Francisco.

Thayer & Noyes' Circus has been the great magnet of attraction in Pittsburgh the past week, the canvas, although of huge proportions, being unable to contain the immense crowds that thronged to see the "Knights of Sawdust."

Gardner and Hemming's Circus and Menagerie exhibits in Baltimore, Md. on the 16th, 17th, 18th and 19th inst.; Washington, D.C., 21st, 22d, 23d and 24th. Georgetown, 25th, and Rockville, 26th.

Van Amburgh & Co's. Menagerie is said to have been doing a fine business in Ohio; their route ahead is as follows: Adrian, Mich., the 17th; Morenci, 18th; Hudson, 19th; Hillsdale, 21st; Rading, 22d; Coldwater, 23d; Bronson, 24th; Sturgis, 25th, and White Pigeon, 26th inst.

New York Clipper, June 30, 1866, p. 94. Not complete, missing text. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Yankee Robinson's Circus met with a succession of crowded "houses" during its stay in Chicago. The press of that city was loud in its praise of the Yankee's show. The Tribune says: "The circus continues to be a great centre of attraction to thousands. The spacious tent is well filled afternoon and evening by enthusiastic admirers of the graceful, the difficult and the unusual in art and nature. Be it remembered that this company combines the excellencies of several hitherto distinct shows, each of whom were good in its way. Those who visited Dan Rice's show when he was last here, and saw his large and rare collection of animals, with a poor show of equestrianism, and who have heretofore seen Yankee Robinson's, with its magnificent menagerie, need to be told nothing more than that the animals of the latter, with the addition of may valuable features from other sources. What with the really first-class riding, the almost impossible tumbling, the tricks of the dogs and monkeys, the amusing gyrations of the baby elephant, the savage gambols of the huge lion, the irate meekness of the buffalo, and the exhibition of almost human intelligence on the part of the bears, with other things too numerous to mention, there is a world of interest under that mammoth canvas, and it does interest highly the world of Chicago." The same paper remarks: "Yankee Robinson's Circus has left us after a very successful week of exhibition on the lake shore, at the foot of Randolph street. The immense tent has been filled to the brim every afternoon and evening, the large audiences testifying their delight by repeated rounds of applause. The show is certainly an immense one, comprising a large company of animals, all rare specimens, and many of them never before exhibited in Chicago. The equestrian corps is very fine, a sample of its worth being furnished in the monster team of forty horses which forms the advance of their mile long procession. The riding, tumbling, posturing, jesting, &c., with the ring performances of the trained animals, are all of the most interesting order. The new formed company, an aggregate of several former companies, has made a grand debut in Chicago, one which is the herald and the promise of a highly successful season in their travels in the Northwest during the present summer." The Republican, in its issue of June 21st says: "The cry is still they come! They enter half eager, half expectant. Their anxiety is relieved, their expectations fully gratified. Such is the universal comment we hear with regard to the countless multitude who throng that most delightful combination of the rare, interesting, pleasing and beautiful - Yankee Robinson's Grand Consolidated Exhibition. It is no wonder the children scream with delight, and fond mothers join the merry chorus at the antics of the clever clowns, and the amusing tricks of the trained donkeys, or that all look on with admiration at the beautiful display of horsemanship, and the noble steeds that bear their fearless riders. It is equally reasonable to expect the gratification which is expressed on every face at witnessing the grand collection of wild animals, from the tawny lion of Africa to the frolicsome monkey; and the raptures which are so generally lavished at that ??? of the animal creation, the dwarf elephant." "The great exhibition of the veteran showman still continues to attract crowds of people to its performances, to whom the manifold curiosities and wonders which have never been witnessed before by them are matters of the greatest wonder and admiration. Last evening, as at former exhibitions, thousands of people were turned away, unable to procure admission, the pavilion, large as it is, being filled to overflowing long before the performance had commenced. The menagerie combines many new features which have not hitherto bee introduced, and the feat of entering the den of wild beasts was achieved to the great wonder of the thousands witnessing it. But in other departments as well is this exhibition great, for the vaulting, acrobating and riding are among the best features of this popular enterprise." - The Times, "Yankee Robinson's great show has enjoyed a week's patronage such as no similar entertainment has ever reaped in Chicago. The principal reasons are, a good a varied collection of trained and wild animals, a fine array of equestrian and acrobatic talent, and - printer's ink. Robinson is a great advertiser. His posters were larger and more numerous than were ever before seen here. In short, having a good show he took pains to make the fact known. Mr. Dingess, the general agent, and Mr. Geo. Cole, the treasurer, are well known favorites in Chicago, and largely contributed, by their personal popularity, to the success of the exhibition. In the person of Charlie Parker, the jester of the arena, we recognize a young and talented gentleman, whose polished manners and freedom from the coarse slang that too often characterizes the clown, are worthy of emulation." - Chicago Journal: "Wonders Will Never Cease. There is traveling with Yankee Robinson's colossal exhibition, now delighting thousand of Chicago's population, Col. Orr's museum of wonders and curiosities. Under this tent is a Swiss boy, who warbles all the popular airs of the day in a style that makes the Switzer think that he is among his native Alps again. Then there is Col Orr, the American giant, one of the biggest and handsomest men we have ever seen. He stands 8 feet 2 inches in his stockings, and weighs 560 pounds. Madam Tuppee, the English giantess, also airs her gigantic proportions, as well as her feminine charms, by the side of Col Orr. Further on, Gen. Paine, born without arms, astonishes the auditor by the wonderful manner in which he uses his feet. Madam King, with her handsome face covered with hair instead of blushes, smiles at all the good looking gentlemen who pass her. On a platform under the tent are wax figures of Jeff. Davis, Lincoln, Mrs. Lincoln, Booth, Harold, Paine and Seward." - Chicago Republican.

Mr. Charles J. Rogers, formerly of the well known firm of Spalding & Rogers, was married a few weeks since, in Philadelphia, to Miss Davis. Mr. Rogers is one of the most gentlemanly and reliable managers that ever entered the profession. May his new engagement through the wedding ring be as productive of happy results as his previous performances in the sawdust arena have been.

Dan Rice's Circus exhibits in Lockport, N.Y., on July 4th.

Coe's Circus did not put in an appearance in Lockport, N.Y., on the 18th and 19th, as advertised, as the proprietor is said to have sherried his nibs with the blunt and left the fakements in the hands of the nabbing guy of the Sheriff's office at Rochester.

Bailey's Menagerie and Circus are billed for Portsmouth, N.H., the 28th; dover, 29th. They proceed thence through the State of Maine. Mr. Farnsworth, the "Old War Horse," has been ahead of Bailey for seven years, and is considered one of the best circus agents in the country. So says a correspondent.

Thayer & Noyes' Circus exhibits at Toledo, Ohio, on July 3d and 4th.

New York Clipper, July 14, 1866, p. 110. Not complete, missing text. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Conklin's "Circo Americano," the friends of this company will be pleased to learn, is still on its travels in that revolutionary part of the world, Mexico. We have received a letter from Peter Conklin, of which we give the points of interest to the profession. It is as follows: "Queretaro City, Mexico, June 15th, 1866 - F. Queen - Having a few minutes to spare, I thought I would give you a little show news from this enlightened quarter of the globe. We have been looking anxiously for some news from home, but the mails here are badly managed. We have started out on a show tour through the interior. We got everything fitted out at Mexico, in true Yankee style, having an agent three weeks ahead, with a bully little wagon, carrying the eagle and U.S., billing the country all over with pictorials and posters, a practice quite unknown here, and which has been attended with the best results. We have shown in five of the most prominent cities on the way between Mexico and San Luis Potosi, and, of course, have encountered some pretty rough characters of all nations, on the way; but having some of the old 'Union defenders' with us, we manage to keep them down. Our routes have to be mighty long, it being necessary to go between forty and fifty miles to make a stand, as happened to us today . . . but it is only thus we can make a good business, and but for the heat of the weather the excitement would be pleasant. Our boys are all well, and we manage to keep everything sharp and bright. . . .

Yankee Robinson is traveling out West with his circus company, meeting with success wherever his company has appeared. The Milwaukee (Wis.) press bestows high praise upon the Yankee and his show. Read the following, from the press of that city: "Yankee Robinson's Show - Between three and four thousand persons visited Yankee Robinson's show yesterday afternoon, and a still larger crowd in the evening. The display of wild animals was very fine and complete. A pair of lions were noble looking animals - the largest of their species we have ever seen. The remainder of the collection comprised animals of nearly every species - all of them being splendid specimens. They gymnastic performances were of a superior character. We will specify especially the horseback riding of a little six year old girl, the best performance of the kind we have ever seen in one so young. The trained bears performed some feats which were truly wonderful. They appeared to possess almost human knowledge, and were agile as so many cats. The performances of the trained elephant were also very fine, that unwieldy animal exhibiting great agility." "Cam Today - Yankee Robinson's great show came to-day. The procession was a mile in length, and composed of horses, bears, wagons, elephants, carriages, dromedaries, lions, ponies, mules, pretty ladies and men. The good looking man, mounted on a speckled white horse, with a gold headed cane under his arm (the man's not the horse's), dressed in confederate gray, was Yankee Robinson. Yank isn't much of a rider, but he knows how to run a show, . . .

Circuses New York Clipper, September 8, 1866, p. 175. Not complete, missing text. Information should be checked with additional sources.

George F. Bailey & Co.'s Circus was in the norther part of Vermont at last advices, meeting with great success, nothwithstanding they were obliged to pay the State $5,000 before they could enter. On August 12th the proprietors drove about six miles from their stand, and were entertained by Elsey Goodwin, the clown, at his country residence. At the same time purchasing Goodwin's trick pony "Mandarin," for $2,000. The Melville family are with the concern.

Castello's Circus performed in Montreal . . . on Aug. 29th and 30th, and Sept. 1st. This week the company is in New York State. The lioness had two cubs on Aug. 22d; the big lion eat one, the other lives. One of their best horses, one they were breaking for the ring, was killed on Aug. 22d. He was hitched, with another horse, to the lion cage, going to the canvas, when something gave way, and they jumped off a high, rocky bank, killing one instantly and badly injuring the other.

Haight & Chambers Circus opened in Baltimore on Aug. 30th to a large house. The company intend remaining in the Mounumental City one week, and goes thence to Washington for five days. Mast. Geo. Bliss, who broke his leg at Columbus, Ohio, has returned to the company. He is looking well, and will, in a few days, be able to resume his place in the ring.

The Hippocollosiculum was at Canaan, Me., on Aug. 30th, Hartford 31st, and dexter Sept. 1st. The show was billed ahead for Frankfort, Stockton and Belfast.

Yankee Robinson's Circus is reported as raking in a large quantity of postal currency and greenbacks of large denominations through the State of Iowa. . . . Sept. 8th, Mount Pleasant, Iowa . . . Pella, Iowa Aug. 28th, Knoxville, Iowa Aug 29th, Monroe, Iowa Aug. 30th and Newton, Iowa Aug. 31st.

Circuses New York Clipper, September 15, 1866, p. 182. Not complete, missing text. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Yankee Robinson and his big show are evidently great institutions, or else no newspaper wisely conducted would devote upwards of half a column to denunciation of them without producing one point of evidence against the merits or morality of the performances. Yet such seems to have been the case, for in the Daily State Register of Des Moines, Iowa, we find an article that, were it not somewhat facetious, would be absolutely stupid. Here it is, read it: "The Nuisance of Big Shows! - We are down on shows! We vote them a nuisance every time. For two days during the present week Yankee Robinson has been amusing the populace with is ponderous exhibition of monkeys and Copperhead clowns; and what special good has been Accomplished?

The show viewed simply as a show, may have been good enough in its way. We didn't go to see; but all shows are bores and public calamities. Let's see about it. An agent comes to town. He posts up his bills, and invites the world to read the announcement that the . . . [circus] will exhibit at Des Moines on the 14th day of August, 1866. All the little boys and girls go crazy with excitement. They read and wonder. They talk about the show. They think constantly on the same subject. They dream about the show, and are eternally asking their dear Pas and Mas how long it will be before they shall see Messrs. Spitfire & Co., and their lovely collection of monkeys and kangaroos. If they attend school the word 'show' is at the head of every lesson, and in the centre of it, and at the end. They can see the same golowing word on their slates, and on their blackboards, and on the walls, and on the ceiling, and on the floor, and on the playground. They read it in the stars at night, and on the margin of the heavens. They hear it whispered among the trees, and among the grasses, and in the fence corners, and along the streets, and in their pews at church. They say their little prayers at night, and instead of winding up with the reverent termination, as usual in such cases, the proceed from beginning to end as follows:

'And now I lay me down to sleep,
I pray the Lord my soul to keep;
And if I die before I wake --
Let's see the show for mercy sake,
Yankee Robinson -- Amen!'

"P.S. We neglected to write the above article in advance of the coming of the great show. If we had done so, we might have lost a big advertisement, and got thrashed, both of which would have been humilitating in the midst of dog days, when, owing to the humors in the blood, thrashings are more prevalent than greenbacks."

Circuses New York Clipper, September 22, 1866, p. 191. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

The Runnels Family, consisting of Burnell Runnells and his two sons, are among the principal attractions of Dan Castello's circus, which exhibited at Harrisburg, Pa., on the 13th inst. The daily Telegraph of that city, in its issue of the 13th inst. says: "In addition to those advertised to appear, the company has very recently been enlarged by the accession to its ranks of Prof. Burnell Runnells and his two sons, who have returned from Europe, where they appeared before the Queen of England, the Emperor of France, and other distinguished personages. The Runnells family appears at each entertainment in a series of classic groupings, posturings, etc., that are unequalled. Our citizens have witnessed the celebrated Martinellis and other in their world renowned exhibitions, but we must acknowledge that Prof. Runnells and his sons greatly excel in their marvelous feats."

Levi J. North, the well known circus man and equestrian, closes the present season on or about October 25th, after which time he can be engaged to supply performing horses and the services of himself and son. North is now South, and he (Levi) don't wish to be confounded with any other North, who may be East or West or some other point of the compass, misleading people, at least so says Levi . . .

The Stickney Family, including Samuel himself, Robert, Samuel Jr., Mrs. Sam, Miss Emma and Master Sammy, with several sagacious equines, can be engaged for a souther trip this winter, . . .

Circus managers complain of the very heavy license taxed them in the State of Iowa. AT Winterset, a small town, $50 was demanded. At Des Moines and Oscaloosa, $100 per day each. Hotel proprietors are just as exorbitant in their demands for man and horse feed. The Champs Elysees' Circus has been experiencing these charges.

Stone, Roston and Murray's Circus spread their canvas in Nashville on the 10th inst., to remain three days. . . . in Nashville for three days to very poor houses. Instead of making they have lost money. It cannot be otherwise, as there is a perfect dearth of money in Middle Tennessee, our correspondent says.

The Great Western Circus and Hippodrome showed in Bloomington, Ill on the 10th, thence to Mitchell, Washington, etc., reaching Vincennes the latter part of the week, from thence to Chicago for the State fair.

Dan Rice's Circus and Menagerie pitch tent at Utica, N.Y. on the 22d inst.

Alex. Robinson's Circus is to be at Scranton, Pa. on the 18th inst.

The Dan Castello party, with J. M. Nixon in the advance, will show at Washington, D.C. on the 24th and 25th inst.

New York Clipper, September 2, 1866, p. 199. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Yankee Robinson is one of the most successful and enterprising circus managers in the sawdust business. Not content with already having a fine collection of living wild animals in conjunction with his circus troupe, he is constantly adding thereto. On the 22d inst. the steamship Borussia arrived at this port with a young African elephant, the only one ever brought safely to this country. A few months ago one was shipped in Liverpool by Avery, Smith & Co., but died just before reaching Portland, Me., consequently the Yankee has the only one in America. Mr. Robinson is busily engaged erecting a mammoth brick building in Chicago for the purpose of occupying it this winter with his circus and menagerie. It will be semi-circular in shape, and the cages of animals will be under the seats, so the audience can promenade around, view the animals, then take their seats and witness the equestrian performances. Yankee says he intends making it as fine a place of amusement as there is in the country.

Haight & Chambers circus opened in Charlottesville, Va. on the 18th for one day, and did an immense biz afternoon and night. Just before the night performance, the members of the company, accompanied by the band, visited the grave of poor Job Foster, who lost his life while traveling with Robinson and Eldred's circus in 1851. . . .

Circuses New York Clipper, October 20, 1866, p. 223. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

The tenting season will soon close with a majority of the circus boys. Already the boys who have to don the tights begin to feel the cool nights as they wait in the small dressing room tent for their act. Several shows have already closed, and the end of next week will find few on the road. Taken altogether the season has been a prosperous one, and but two companies have met with bad business. These are the Thayer and Noyes party and George De Haven's show. Van Amburgh's Menageries will close in the vicinity of this city, and winter at Barnum's Museum. Alex. Robinson closed in Utica, N.Y. on the 13th, where he will winter his stock. S. B. Howes' will close on the 27th inst. in Jersey, and Harry Whitbeck will take charge of the stock on his farm at Claverack, N.Y. George F. Bailey's circus and menagerie closes in Danbury, Conn. on the 27th inst, and tie up there until next spring. Dan Rice's menagerie winds up in Philadelphia on the 27th, and remains in the neighborhood for winter quarters. Gardiner and Hemmings' close in Media, Pa. on the 20th inst., where they remain. Lipman's circus and John Robinson winter in Cincinnati, Ohio. Yankee Robinson will run the winter through at his new establishment in Chicago. The Thayer and Noyes' stock will remain in Detroit, under attachment. S. O. Wheeler will be found in Ohio. William Lake at Zanesville, Ohio. Dan Castello's circus, Haight and Chambers, and Stone, Rosston & Co., travel in the South. Frank Howe's Consolidation Circus intend going to South America.

Haight and Chambers' Circus, says a correspondent, has of late been doing a good business through portions of of the States of Maryland, Virginia and Tennessee, and are still receiving an abundant patronage from the citizens of Georgia. Our correspondent adds: "The clowns, ben Maginley and old Sam Lathrop, together with M'lle Marie and Barney Carrol, have meted out to them the plaudits of the arenic loving populace. These favorites are a tower of strength in themselves, but they are supported by an A No. 1 company of athletes and acrobats. Sig. Faranta, the contortionist, is making rapid improvement in his profession, and bids fair to become the ne plus ultra of 'limber Jimmies.' The route ahead is through Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas.

John Robinson's Circus showed at Noblesville, Ind. on the 8th inst., and after the afternoon's performance the band and members of the company went to the grave of Frank Starks, at the cemetery, and played several airs.

Yankee Robinson's Amphitheatre, now in the course of erection at the corner of Washington and State streets, Chicago, is a large and elegantly designed building. The dimensions are 94 by 110 feet, the height of the dome being 41 feet. A vestibule of 12 feet square opens out upon State street, which is the main entrance to the building. The cages for the animals are arranged round the entire building, running underneath the seats for the audience, and the building is so arranged that the circus exhibitions can be given at any time independently of the other entertainments, and vice versa. The whole building will be warmed and ventilated in a most perfect manner, the ring being lighted from the dome, and the other parts of the establishment by the windows at the front and sides. A balcony will be erected in front for the band, and a stable capable of accommodating over a hundred horses forms the rear part of the edifice. The structure, which will be constructed at a cost of about $15,000, besides being admirably suited for the purpose for which it is designed, will also be, architecturally speaking, an ornament to the street. It is designed entirely by Yankee Robinson, and is built by Mrssrs. Ogden & Elliott, builders, in that city. This exhibition will be one of the permanent institutions of Chicago. The building is to be finished about the middle of this month, and will be opened about the 1st of November.

S. O. Wheeler's Circus was to pitch tent at Chillicothe, O., on the 13th.

Stone, Rosston & Co.'s Circus was at Knoxville, Tenn. on the 11th, and was to be in Greenville on the 15th.

Dan Rice, who was talked of as a candidate for Congress from Pennsylvania, didn't run, but withdrew in favor of the Democratic candidate.

Gardiner and Hemmings' Cicus will show at Phoenixville, Pa. on the 18th inst., Westchester 19th, and Media the 20th.

S. B. Howes' Circus exhibits in Lancaster, Pa. on the 16th. Ned Banker joined the company at Pittsburgh, Pa.

New York Clipper, November 10, 1866, p. 247. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

William T. Odell, well known in the sawdust profession as a good scene rider and clever as an equestrian director, died in Philadelphia on Oct. 28th. His remains were brought to this city by his father, and then taken to Bloomfield, N.J., and interred. Billy had a host of friends, by whom he will be held in kind remembrances. He leaves a wife and one or two children.

Presentations - A very pleasant little affair came off at Dwight, Ill. on the evening of Oct. 24th. A number of the members of Yankee Robinson's Circus and Menagerie had subscribed for and procured for the Snow Brothers two elegant gold medals of similar design and workmanship, and took this occasion for the presentation. After the "brother" act, the boys were called into the ring, and Mr. P. A. Older, manager, in a neat and appropriate speech, presented the medals as a mark of the high esteem which the company entertained for them as gentlemen and performers, to which Mr. W. A. Snow responded in his usual happy manner. At the same time the manager also presented Mr. L. H. Everett, clown, with a splendid gold watch, which had been purchased by his numerous friends as a testimony of their appreciation. In conclusion, Mr. Older, on behalf of the company, presented Mr. O. W. Dodge, the ring master, with a superb silver watch and an elegantly mounted ring whip. The Snow Brothers open at the new building of Yankee Robinson, at Chicago, on Nov. 5, and at the Theatre Comique, Boston, Dec. 1.

Forepaugh's Circus and Menagerie, at Tenths and Callowhill streets, Philadelphia, will commence the campaign in that city on Monday next, 12th inst. The programme for the fall and winter will include leaps from the spring board, summersaulting, etc. With a really good company, and a variety of equestrian, acrobatic and other acts, together with the clowning in good hands, we see no reason why this establishment should not succeed. Let the managers open in good style if they hope for patronage.

Yankee Robinson's New Zoological establishment, Chicago, was announced to open on the 5th inst. The Yankee will open with a first class equestrian company, and a large collection of wild animals. Several important additions have been made to the menagerie, among the most noticeable of which are the Baby Elephant, only 39 inches high; the "Egyptian Wallapus," jet black and hairless, weighing about 1,200 pounds; the "Opal," or satin-haired cow, from Hindostan; the "Siberian Cow," full-grown, 3 1/2 feet high, and covered with long, silky hair; the "Hindoo Heifer," with ears 16 inches long; the only pair of "Honeymoon Birds" it is said, ever exhibited in America; two spotted leopards; and African chimpanzee; South American coypons; a Malay emu; and African gnu; serpents, consisting of an anaconda, a cobra de capella (or hooded snake), two boa constrictors, &c.; a group of Australian monkeys and birds, and a variety of other interesting and curious birds and animals.

Charles Parker, who has been clowning all summer with Yankee Robinson, arrived in this city on the 1st inst. . . .

Stone, Rosston & Co's Circus exhibits in Richmond, Va. on the 5th inst., and remains four days.

Wm. T. Aymar is at present in Philadelphia, where he opens on the 12th inst. with Forepaugh's Circus and Menagerie, as clown.

Mike Lipman's Circus showed in Louisville, Ky. on Oct. 26th and 27th, giving two performances each day to crowded and delighted audiences.

Lee & Ryland's Circus has done a big business in Oregon. The company was to open in San Francisco early in October.

Dan Castello's Circus is advertised to be at Charleston, S.C. all this week.

Circuses New York Clipper, November 17, 1866, p. 255. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Haight and Chambers' Circus, says a correspondent writing on Oct. 28th, "has of late been meeting with unbounded success, the spacious canvas being crowded upon each occasion to over-flowing. The people of Georgia and Indiana are evidently curiously inclined, as the liberal patronage they are receiving abundantly gives evidence. Messrs. Haight and Chambers are sparing no pains nor expense in procuring the best talent in the country to place before the public, and the result is they are receiving their hearty support. They are now gliding down the silent waters of the Alabama river, from Montgomery to Selma, where they make a two day's stand on Oct 29th and 30th. They will be in Vicksburg, Miss. about the 20th of November, on their way to the principal cities of the Southern States. Sig. Faranta, a young man, is a first class contortionist. Another bright arenic star is Chas. Bliss, son of Signor Bliss, the antipodean. He is quite young yet, and as a tumbler is par excellent, and is pronounced by professionals to be one of the ablest tumblers of his age in the ring. Among other bright particular stars are Harry Burdeau, Harry North, Wm. Naylor, Jno. Naylor, Sam Rinehart and others too numerous to mention. In short, they have a company of first class artists."

Daniel Miles, well known as a side showman, died in Cincinnati on the 3d inst., after a lingering illness. He was traveling the past season with Van Amburgh's Menagerie. His remains were deposited in Spring Grove Cemetery.

Yankee Robinson opened his Zoological Gardens and Museum in Chicago on the 5th inst., with a fine collection of animals and the following equestrian company: Chas. Fish, Wm. Snow, Geo. S. Robinson, Jno. Lodawick, O. W. Dodge, C. B. Rarey, E. W. Perry, S. Trenchor, Ben Snow, Jas. Sanford, Geo. Sears, Herr Munnda, S. R. Valsh, John Lowlow, Willie Dutton, Louis Carre, Chas. King, Geo. Haskins, Wm. Kirk, B. T. Pierre, J. Fro, M'lle Louisa, Little Minnie, Miss Jennie and Mad. Perry.

John Robinson's Circus went into winter quarters at Cincinnati on the 3d inst., after a brilliant summer's season through Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan and Illinois, with W. H. Hough as business manager.

Herman A. Fistler has joined Chiarini's Circus and gone to Cuba.

Dan Castello's Circus will exhibit as follows: Savannah, Ga. 14th - 17th; Quitman 19th; Thomasville 20th; Valdosta 21st; Jasper 22d; Jacksonville 23-24th; Lake city 26th; Madison 27th; Monticello 28th; Tallahassee 29-30th; and Quincy Dec. 1st.

Mike Lipman's Circus was advertised at Nashville, Tenn. for the 12th and 13th inst.

Stone Rosston & Co.'s Circus is in Petersburg, Va. the first four days of the current week.

1867

New York Clipper, January 5, 1867, p. 311. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Concerning Yankee Robinson's Coliseum in Chicago, a correspondent writing on the 26th of December says: "Having attended Yankee's Coliseum last evening, and being much pleased with the performance, I would like to mention some of the leading acts or features, as, without doubt, it will entertain some of the friends or the parties mentioned. Yankee Robinson has been very ill for a long time, and is now in the country recruiting his health and energies for the coming season. The grand entree was splendidly gotten up by the Equestrian Director, Mr. E. W. Perry, who is a capital two and four horse rider. Little Minnie's endeavors to handle the ponies are sure to bring applause; Miss Jennie rides a good principal act, but we think there is much room for improvement (get up Jinnie and keep up with the times); the Robinson Bros. are clever artists in their line - their horizontal bar and trapeze are much better than the average; Messrs. Wm. and Benj. Snow, with their magic globes, hat spinning, comics, and trained dogs, are A one; the comicalities of James Reynolds, who, by the way, has a fine voice and sings well, combined with funny Johnny Lowlow, and Johnny Davenport, all in motley garb, serve to please all classes, old and young, and keep them in good humor throughout. R. S. Dingess, the agent, attends to business matters during Yankee's absence and handles the soap. . . . The musical department is under Mr. Palmer's direction.

Circuses, New York Clipper, January 19, 1867, p. 327. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Another Outrage. Murder and Wounding of Circus People. We have received the following account of an attack upon a circus company in Mississippi, by which one of the members was killed and other wounded. If these things are to continue in such a God forsaken country, traveling troupes will find it necessary to arm themselves against the assassins that now infest certain parts of Mississippi, and open their batteries on them at the first intimation of an outbreak. We know nothing of the cause (said to be owing to Yankees being in the troupe) of the attack on Lipman's Circus; we only know that a murder has been committed, and the guilty perpetrators should be made to suffer the penalty. Read the letter: Natchez, Miss., Dec. 28th, 1866.

Editor New York Clipper - The following is a brief account of a most villainous outrage perpetrated upon Mike Lipman's Colossal Combination Circus while at Winona, Miss. The company arrived at Winona on the morning of the 21st instant, and was received very kindly by a few leading citizens of the town. During the afternoon performance it was rumored that we were to be whipped and run out of the town that night; no attention was paid to the rumor, and the night performance passed off satisfactorily. While making our susal settlements with hotels, stables, etc., shooting was heard in the direction of the depot. I sent the Postmaster and a citizen of the town to the depot to enquire and report the cause of the shooting; the first firing was at 12 o'clock at night, and at 1 o'clock we heard that some drunken men (citizens), had been firing their revolvers in the air, and finished by shooting two or three times into the stock car, which resulted in the wounding of Horsler Howard through the hand. At one and a half o'clock, everything being settled, the whole company proceeded to the depot, and entered the cars, when a man styling himself the magistrate of the town, with another person, came aboard and insisted that we should move off immediately. The conductor refused to move until the proper time, and the two men came to me enquiring about our men, saying that if I could keep our people inside of the car he could assure us that no danger need be apprehended, and that he (the supposed magistrate), and citizen could control the citizens of the town. I assured him that none of our company would come outside. At two o'clock A.M., as we were passing the depot (at Winona), the ruffians opened a most villainous fire (from behind cotton bales, arranged for breastworks), upon our unprotected men, women and children! many of whom were asleep. The cold blooded assassins finding us unprepared, and wholly unaware of any attack, rushed from behind the cotton ambush to the car, and poured their deadly fire through the glass windows at our innocent people, and brutally murdered Mr. Chas. Miniki, a German, from Memphis, Tenn. Mr. Miniki was a member of Oscar P. Perry's Philadelphia Band, and a more kind, inoffensive young man never breathed. Chas. Wilson, a canvass man, was slightly wounded in the neck; several of the company had their clothes and hats cut by the bullets, and several felt the whiz of these deadly missiles. Two or three of our men, who were armed, rushed to the rear of the car and returned the fire. The day following, while at Canton, Miss., the passengers per next train reported three of the murderers dangerously wounded. It is supposed that there were 400 or 500 in the murderous gang. The Jackson Mississippian having refused or neglected to publish my report - and having a company of over sixty people aboard of this train - I appeal to you in behalf of the whole company, to expose this foul assassination. Respectfully yours, Geo. G. Morton, Treasurer and Acting Manager Mike Lipman's Colossal Combination Circus and Trained Animals. P. S. The only cause that can be assigned for the outrage was that we had some Yankees in our company. Now I am a Southern man, and never was over 250 miles North of Nashville, my home, in my life.

New York Clipper, February 9, 1867, p. 351. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Forepaugh's Menagerie and Circus will start out for the summer's campaign about the first week of April from Philadelphia, with a fine collection of animals, consisting of twenty-one cages. Mr. Forepaugh has secured in addition to his already large stock, a pair of double hump white camels, said to be the first and only ones of that kind permitted to leave their native country. Also an Abyssinian ibex and a cub lion only eighteen months old, which is said to be as heavy as the majority of full grown lions. Mr. Forepaugh expects to receive, about the middle of April, a large rhinoceros and a zebra.

Frank Thompson, an old side-showman, and who came from Culpepper Court House, Va., is at present located at the Cape of Good Hope, engaged in securing all kinds of animals [and shipping?] them to menageries managers . . .

Charles Parker, a popular clown and general performer with the public as well as managers, can be engaged . . .

DeHaven's Circus is at present performing in St. Paul, Minn. A correspondent says: "We have got a fine amphitheatre, and show three times each week. Business is good. The performers are Fulton and Carr, Mad. Worland, La Petite Annie, and others. Louis B. Carr was married at Lake Como, on the 20th Jan., to Miss Kate Phillips, from Louisville. Mr. Dutton is taking the people by storm in his summersault act, and the 'Brother Act,' by Carr and Dutton is hard to best.

Chiarini's Circus Troupe arrived at Vera Cruz on Jan. 6th. The company was expected to arrive in the city of Mexico during the last week in January. Notwithstanding M. Chiarini's large loss by the destruction of his amphitheatre in Mexico, he had another one erected, with a central saloon 75 feet in each direction, which contains 550 seats encircling the ring, which can be changed into a dancing floor or ball room in ten minutes' time by merely placing the floor constructed for that purpose over the space occupied by the ring. The grand circus contains 175 private boxes, with abundance of room for six persons each.

Circuses, New York Clipper, March 9, 1867, p. 383. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Circus Items in Chicago. Avery Smith, the head centre of the great American Circus, no organizing in this city for Paris, was in Chicago last week. John O'Brien, the manager and proprietor of a Philadelphia circus and menagerie, is now stopping at the Matteson House, Chicago. He starts out from Philadelphia about the 10th of April. Mr. O'Brien owns a large portion of the animals of the Yankee Robinson Show, including two elephants, and will ship them by rail from that city next week. S. O. wheeler, manager of the Great Western Circus, a now defuct institution, is also there. O'Brien and Wheeler are at loggerheads, and a suit at law is said to be on the taps. Older, the business manager, and Dan Scott, joint proprietor of the Yankee Robinsons Show, with the Simon-pure Yankee Robinson, arrive in Chicago Feb. 27, fresh from their suburban retreats. Seth B. Howes resides there, and, being now out of the business, is seldom seen where show people most do congregate. It is rumored that the old veteran will again be mixed up in the circus business. W. H. Hough, business manager of the John Robinson Circus and Menagerie, which starts out from Cincinnati on the 15th of April, arrived on Feb. 25th. The nature of his business has not developed itself.

Mr. John Lawlor made his first appearance at Yankee Robinson's Circus, Chicago, Ill., as clown, on Feb. 28th.

Forepaugh's Circus brought its Philadelphia season to a close on the 2d inst. The concern will soon commence a traveling season.

Circuses, New York Clipper, March 16, 1867, p. 391. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

The Coming Tenting Season. The time is drawing near for circus companies to make their annual start for a tour through this great and glorious nation. Managers for the past four months have been busily engaged in preparing for the campaign, buying fresh stock, breaking in horses, building luggage vans, repainting their old wagons, oiling the harness, and, in some instances, having new tents made. Last season there were eighteen different organizations on the road, and, the approaching season will find about the same number. The season of 1865 was the most successful one known for years, but last season was not so brilliant. Most of the big concerns did a flourishing business the first four months, but there was not one but felt the pressure of hard times when August and September set in. Probably there were more rainy days last season thatn ever before encountered in the same month. The coming campaign does not promise over fruitful returns, as money is scarce in the country towns, and it is though the season will be poorer than the last one. Nearly all the old managers will be on the road together with a few new organizations. A well regulated company embraces the following people: First come the managers, then follow the treasurer, advertiser, writer, layer out, equestrian director, boss canvassman-boss-osteler, watchman, door-keeper, from eight to fourteen canvas men, eight to twelve ostlers, three to five candy butchers, three side showmen, twelve to fifteen performers, sixty to eighty horses, and two to four men of the paste brigade. It takes about one hundred and twenty horses for a large menagerie. In olden times the advertiser used to travel on his own bill wagon, and put up all his bills with tacks with leather tips on them. Now-a-days he travels in a light buggy, and is followed by a bill wagon with a man and a paste wagon with one or two men. It is also of late years that a writer is called by some self-opinionated and egotistical "doctors" director of publications; and to give it a high tone we notice that one writes himself down as "Editor of Publications." If these so called "editors" properly attend to their business, they prove a valuable auxiliary to the company. A real jolly circus is something essentially American. A good circus is a good place for anyone to visit. There is a carelessness and recklessness about everything which is exciting in the extreme. There are so many unheard of things, except the clown, who is never unheard. But, mixed up as they get to be, dangerous and confusing as it all is, they always come out as they went in - amid the shouts of the crowd. The Clipper was the first paper in this country to give annually a complete list of every company going out. . . .

Barnum and Van Amburgh's Museum and Menagerie. P. T. Barnum, President; Hyatt Frost, Director; Henry Barnum, Manager; Joel E. Warner, Advertiser. This party will start from Connersville, Ind. about the 15th of April. Its collection of wild animals is greater than that of any other company in the country. For nearly half a century this has been recognized as the leading exhibition of animals in America. The managers not only have the rarest animails that can be found, but are constantly importing everything that is rare or curious. Their elephant, Tippo Saib, is the largest at present in this country. The also have a living giraffe, fifteen feet high, the only one on this continent. . . .

The United States Menagerie. Hitchcock, Horn and Joe Cushing, proprietors. This concern is at present organizing in Boston, from which city it will start early in April, and perambulate the Eastern country. They will have seventy-five horses, about sixty people, ten cages of animals, a baby elephant, and other attractions. The cages and baggage vans are all new. Whitmore's Minstrels accompany this show.

Yankee Robinson's Quadruple Show. Mr. Scott, proprietor; Yankee Robinson, general director; G. F. Older, manager [P. A. Older?]; R. A. Dingess, advertiser. This concern will start from Chicago, Ill. about the last week in April. The Yankee says that he will have one of the largest combinations ever seen on the road. It will be remembered that Yankee's Show and Van Amburgh's Menagerie had a race for it last season, and "Yank" outran the Van Amburgh concern. He says he will make all who attempt to run opposition to him this season feel warm. He has engaged John Davenport, clown; the Snow Brothers, Ed Perry and Family, Robinson Brothers, and others. The Yankee will have the O'Brien lot of animals, the same as last year, performing bears, etc.

George Bailey & Co's Circus and Menagerie. Avery Smith, G. Quick & John Nathans proprietors; Geo. Bailey, general director; Farnsworth, advertiser. This well conducted show will start from Danbury, Ct., about the 15th of April. The company consists of Robert Ellingham, equestrian director; James Melville and Family; Shappes and Whitney, . . .

Circuses, New York Clipper, August 3, 1867, p. 134. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Forepaugh's Menagerie and Circus is taking York Stated by storm. In Albany, for two days and nights, the canvas was thronged to repletion, nothwithstanding the fact that on the second day of the show the great Dexter race took place, and apparently "took" all of Sturgeonville and its surroundings. . . . Amsterdam, quite a small and quaint country place on the Central raidroad, contributed $1,?00 on the 19th to the coffers of the indefatigable Forepaugh. The big show of 1867 is dong a fine business and both managers and agents are said to be in most amiable moods.

Yankee Robinson's Circus is reported as having done a big business in St. Louis, Mo., during its stay there. The concern is to show in Kansas City, Mo. on August 9th, after which it takes all the towns in Missouri, and closes for the season in the West.

Lee and Ryland's Circus opened in San Francisco on the 13th of May. They played two weeks. The concern is said to have done a better business than has been known for years. They have got L. B. Lent's trained buffalo, and he has proved a big card, as he is the firts performing buffalo ever seen in that country. The following are the names of the performers traveling with this company: H. C. Lee and wife; G. F. Ryland, Miss Ellen Boilin, the Lee children, Wm. Kennedy, Wm. H. Franklin, . . . and Eugene Lee. The company although small is said to give a good show.

Van Amburgh's Menagerie will visit the following towns this week: Adell, Iowa July 30, Winterset 31st, Alton Aug. 1st, Oceola 2d, and Chariton 3d, and goes thence to Corydon 5th, Centreville 6th, and Albia(?) 7th. The new six pole tent went up at Washington, Iowa on July 20. The members of the company lately got up a subscription for the widow of L. F. Taylor, who had for many years been attached to the company. About $250 was raised. At Adell, Iowa the concern turns around and started for Brewster's Station, N.Y., where they will winter, as most of the men live there.

White, the lion tamer, who was injured pretty badly in Buffalo, N.Y., lately, by a den of performing lions, was unable to walk out until July 26th.

Lake's Circus was to be at Chillicothe, Mo. on July 30th.

Maginley and Carroll's Circus intend making a tour through Northern Ohio, thence to Illinois and Michigan.

The United States Menagerie and Circus - Cushing and Hitchcock's - exhibits in Windsor, N.S. Aug 1st, Truro 2d, New Glasgow 3d, Pictou 4th, Tatamagouche 6th, Pugwash 7th . . .

The European Circus is billed to appear at Woodstock, Vt. Aug 3d, Claremont, N.H. 5th, Lebanon 6th, and Bradfort, Vt. 7th.

Castello and Barnum's Circus and Menagerie will exhibit as follows: Barboursville, W.V. July 29th, Hurrycan Bridge July 30th, Charleston on the Kanawa 31st, Maiden Aug. 1st, Camilton 2d, Great Falls 3d, and so on through Western Virginia, and into the Valley.

Lent's New York Circus showed in Cleveland, Ohio on July 19th and 20th. . . .

Haight and Chambers' Circus exhibits at St. Paul, Minn. on August 2d and at Winona on the 7th.

Circuses, New York Clipper, September 14, 1867, p. 183. Missing text. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Bailey & Co.'s Circus took their final leave of the "Dominion" at Amherstburg, showing thee on the 13st ult. Their Canadian tour is said to have been a decided success, pecuniarily and ohterwise. A correspondent, writing from Lexington, Mich. on the 3d inst. says: "Quite amusing entertainment was given the citizens of the staid little village of Kingsville on Aug. 29th. James Melville has long claimed the championship of pedestrianism among the company, and when the rumor spread that the gauntlet had been taken up by little Jimmy Reynolds, considerable funds changed hands on the result. The distace was fifty yards, Reynolds having nine feet start, notwithstanding Melville was victorious. Jimmy yielded with a good grace, but is confident he can go again. The performances yesterday were good, considering the bad roads they have met with of late. The equestrian feats of the Melville Family deserve special notice, while the witticisms of Lee Powell, joined to the comicalities of James Reynolds, are received with unbounded applause at each exhibition. Shappee and Whitney do a good trapeze act, and the controtions of Signor Ferranti are gone through with in an elegant and graceful manner. Wm. Kincaid does 'Pete Jenkins,' and J. Showles trots out the mules. The side show, under the management of Jas. Wambold, with a troupe of young ladies, draws 'hugely.' They show in Saginaw on the 9th and 10th, and go thence to Flint, Lansing, Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. The stock will winter in Michigan.

. . . [Haight & Chambers] The cholera broke out on board the boat at East St. Louis. They run up to Alton to make that stand, when one of the cooks died. Returning from Alton two canvas-men died, and soon after two deck hands were smuggled off the boat. Johnny Lewis, the clog and wench dancer, took sick in the morning, and went to the Everett House, St. Louis, where he died before 5 P.M. He was locked up in his room and no one allowed to go near him. The city officials took charge of him, and took him out of the hotel at 12 o'clock at night and buried him. His body could not be got to send home, as the company wanted to have it embalmed. The steamboat was sent to quarantine, but did not stay there half an hour, as Mr. Haight put up a couple of hundred dollars and got a certificate that all was right, but when he started his boat he found he was not all right, as all the company had quit. John and Bill Naylor and Sam Rhinehart left to joing Carroll and Maginly's Circus at Indianapolis, . . . Mad. McCarte and Sam Lathrop stopped in St. Louis. Billy Manning joined Van Amburgh's Menagerie. The show went up the Missouri river on its way to St. Joe. The Holland Family joined Haight and Chambers just before leaving."

Yankee Robinson's Great Show exhibited in Ridgeway, Kansas on the 2d inst. and took $161.18. This, says a correspondent, is big business for that town. Probably the "Yank" did not think so.

Dan Rice's Circus was billed to show in Chicago, Ill. on September 7th.

W. H. Gardner was at Detroit, Mich. last, billing for Dan Rice's Circus, which was to invade that city Oct 1st and 2d.

Hitchcock and Cushing's Circus and Menagerie route ahead is as follows: Halifax, C.B. Sept. 11th; Danville 12th; Richmond 13th; and Sherbrook 14th.

Stone, Rosston & Co's Circus will appear at Kingston, N.Y. on the 13th inst., New Paltz 14th, Poughkeepsie 16th, Fishkill 17th, Carmel 18th, and Danbury, Conn. 19th.

Circuses, New York Clipper, November 9, 1867, p. 247. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Thayer and Noyes' Circus exhibited in Georgetown, D.C. on Oct. 28th, Alexandria, Va. 29th, 30th and 31st. They gave their first performance in Washington, D.C. on lot corner of Louisiana avenue and Tenth street. The party design remaining until the middle of the month, when they open at the Front Street Theatre, Baltimore. "Novice" says: "The company is made up of many excellent performers, and a very creditable performance is given. Dr. James L. Thayer did not appear in the circle on the opening night, but his place was fairly filled by Charles Parker, who made an appearance after an illness of three weeks. Lucy Watson, a graceful equestrienne, joined the show here, and appeared on the opening night. Master Woody Cook, a clever boy rider, (pupil of Mr. C. W. Noyes) gave a pretty hurdle act, and elicited warm commendation. Mr. Charles Reed displayed improvement in his riding, and also in ground tumbling. A very decided change is noticed in the way of lighting the canvas at night, gas being used entirely instead of the ordinary troublesome lamps. As we have the Forepaugh show here four days, commencing on the 4th inst., we may expect lively opposition between the two companies, as the latter show on the 6th on Missouri avenue, which is but four blocks from the location of the Thayer & Noyes concern."

Edmond Mabie died in Delavan, Wis. Oct. 28. His brother, Jerry Mabie, died just eight weeks previous.

Cushing's Circus, under the management of Joseph Cushing, closed the season on Oct. 26 at Lawrence, Mass. The day before a canvas man was instantly killed at Lowell, Mass., by the falling of the centre pole upon him. This was the only accident that occurred during the season.

Little Alice, the child equestrienne of Robinson's show, was thrown from her horse while performing at Athens, Tenn., Oct. 31st, and killed.

Stone, Rosston and Murray's Circus closed the season in Bridgeport, Conn. on Oct. 31st. The wagons, harness and traps are to be overhauled there, while the horses and animals are to be quartered at New Milford, Conn. for the winter.

Dan Castello's Circus was at Savannah, Ga. Oct. 28th, August 29th, Charleston 30th and 31st and Nov. 1st and 2d, and is to be in Atlanta, Ga. on or about the 12th inst.

John Robinson's Circus and Menagerie was to be at Knoxville, Tenn. on Oct 28th, Cleveland 29th, and Chattanooga Nov. 1st.

Gardner and Hemmings' Circus was to be at Johnstown, Pa. 4th inst., and go thence to Hollidaysburg 5th, Altoona 6th, Huntingdon 7th, and Harrisburg 8th.

Alex. Robinson's Circus was billed for Madison, Tenn. Oct. 28th, McDonaldville 29th, and Covington 30th.

Haight and Chambers' Circus was to be at Selma, Ala. on Oct. 30th and 31st.

Maginley and Carroll's Circus was at Franklin, Tenn. Oct. 28th.

Circuses, New York Clipper, December 14, 1867, p. 287. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Thayer and Noyes' Circus continues to attract large audiences to the Front Street Theatre, Baltimore. On the 4th inst., Doctor Thayer, while in the ring, to an answer to a question from Mr. Whittaker, said that if he could not amuse his audience without resorting to vulgar and obscene language, he would cease to cater for their amusement. His remarks were received with an Indian yell of approbation.

Wm. La Rue, well known in the circus business as a bare back rider, met with an accident in Philadelphia on the 6th inst., while practicing his trick horse Royal George. He was attemption to leap the second gate, when his horse, all on fire, and entering into the spirit of his master, made a mis-step and threw his heels up accidentally, and struck his master below the knee, fracturing the leg badly.

Haight and Chambers' Circus left New Orleans for Galveston, Texas on Nov. 26th.

New York Clipper, December 14, 1867, p. 287. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Orton's Circus has been showing in Arkansas. On Nov. 22, the concern was at Boston, Ark. When the afterpiece was announced, a party of "bushwackers" came into the canvas a little drunk. Four of them drew their revolvers on Billy Andrews, but some of the company soon made them put up their firearms. They left, saying they wuld settle with them before they left town. In the evening a party of twenty of them made a raid on the show. The managers called on thirteen regulars who were in town, and prepared for battle. Arranging their forces behind an embankment they prepared for action. In a few minutes three men on horseback, led by Tom Duke, formerly a captain in the rebel army, rode into the ring, when the firing became general on both sides. Tom Duke was killed, also his horse, and a negro called Jeff. Twelve of the party were wounded, but escaped; two were taken prisoners. R. Z. Orton was the only one injured among the show boys. Three buckshots passed through the fleshy part of his body, and one lodged in his arm. He is recovering.

Lake's Circus, says a correspondent writing from Henderson, Texas on Nov. 28, has been over some very rough country, with very poor accommodations for man or beast at the hotels. "All through Arkansas we could get nothing to eat except sweet potatoes and hash! and corn coffee. If we asked for something else, they would say this is all we have down here, and they had the impudence to demand $2.50 per day for each man for such grub. But we have got to stand it, as we are here and can't help it. Through this State (Texas) business is good. The people don't want to have anything to do with greenback money - all specie. We were compelled to skip Shreveport, La., on account of yellow fever, and we hear that it has been in all the large sized towns in Texas. We are compelled to show in the small towns. The cry when we come into otowns is, have any of your boys got the yellow fever? But it aint struck us yet, although we are in its midst. Fred Renshaw joined our company here."

A meeting of professionals. Uncle Sam Miller's Hotel, in Philadelphia, is one of the most popular stopping places in this country, and is perhaps better known among showmen than any other hotel in the States. It is the resort of all showmen visiting the Quaker City, and at this time of the year is filled with those in every branch of the business. On the 9th inst., there was a regular gathering of the clans, there being present a large number of professionals, as well as managers of circuses who were engaging for the approaching season. The following are the names of those who were "on deck:" Adam Forepaugh, C. H. Castle, Dan Rice, E. Derious, Frank Rosston, J. O'Brien, Dan Gardner, James Cooper, R. Hemmings, W. H. Gardner, Jas. Jakaway, C. Parker, Sam Lathrop, Pete and John Conklin, Geo. Derious, G. Batcheider(?), Wm. Morgan, . . . James and Sam Burt, Sanford and Brown, . . . Lew Lipman, Harry Enochs, Tom King, Sutton Brothers, C. Bristol, James Wadsworth, the facetious John T. Donnelly, Charles Munroe, Henry Burdeau, Chas. Tease, Geo. King, S. S. Sanford, the veteran minstrel manager, L. J. Donnely, Fred Rentz, James Ward, James Flake, and last though not least, by two hundred pounds, the fat the genial Doctor Thayer.

Haight and Chambers' Circus performed at Galveston, Texas on Nov. 27, remained six days, and did a good business. They left there on Dec. 3d for Houston, where they were to remain four days, and go thence on through Texas and back to Galveston, en route to New Orleans. They were joined on Nov. 18 by McVeigh and Pierce, double song and dance and clog dancers; also, on the 29th by the Milsom Brothers. Hank Mason and W. J. Jacobs were also with the party, but quit them on Nov. 3d, and left for New Orleans on the 4th.

Alex. Robinson's Circus exhibits in Mobile, Ala. all this week.

1868

New York Clipper, March 28, 1868, p. 406. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Van Amburgh & Co.'s Great Golden Menagerie. The conflagration of Barnum's Museum, by which so many valuable animals were destroyed, has not at all dempened the ardor of the proprietors, and they put on the road this season an entire new and first clas exhibition. The wagons, chariots, vans and dens are all entirely new, and are designed and finished in the highest style of art. Emblazoned on the panels of each are splendid illustrations from the Holy Bible, after designs from the French artist, Gustav Dore, enframed in magnificent carved mouldings and plate looking-glass. The "Great Golden Band Chariot" is a chef d'oeuvre of artist and artisan, and the "Golden Car of Egypt," with the living Aftican lion on its summit, will be one of the attractive features of the exhibition. The war elephant, "Tippo Saib;" the performing elephant, "Jenny Lind;" the Tom Thumb elephant, "Hannibal, Jr.;" the giraffe, eland, white zebra, and the salamander bear, "Fire Imp," rescued alive from the ruins of the Museum, will be among the prominent specialties. The concern will be under the general direction of Hyatt Frost; H. Barnum, manager; J. Lyke, treasurer; C. H. Farnsworth, agent, and George Guilford, director of amusements.

Yankee Robinson's Consolidated Shows will start from the West and will travel in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and Minnesota the entire season. During the past winter tthe Yankee has devoted nearly his whole time in devising new features for the coming campaign, and without dubt will have one of the best shows traveling. His procession will certainly equal, if not surposs, all others, as he announces features never before seen in a street parade. His Neptune car, with representations of Undine and her water nymphs, is one of the largest vehicles ever seen on the road. Surmounting this car will be a number of ladies in dazzling apparel representing the Naida Queen, attended by the spirits of Darkness, also four Amazons dressed in steel armor representing Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter. The band chariot will be drawn by thirty-two horses. A feature in the procession will be a Dragon Phaeton carved from solid wood, with gold mountings. The procession will be led by the Polyhymnia, or Mechanical Band, over twelve feet in length. Among the collection of curiosities will be found dens of lions, tigers, leopards, bears, a bison, and a lot of tropical birds. The canvas will be one of the largest to be pitched this season, and is so fitted up that parties can, if they wish, witness the animal exhibition without seeing the equestrian performances, and all for one admission. Yankee Robinson is general superintendent; P. A. Older, manager; J. M. Chandler, assistant; A. S. Burt, advertising agent; J. B. Miner, treasurer; James Melville, equestrian director; and Major Post, leader. The performers consist of James Melville and his family; Geo. Hoskins, lion tamer; Charles Parker, clown; the Lazelle Brothers, Jerry Hopper and others.

Forepaugh, in despite of the many contributions he has made to the zoological cemetery at Philadelphia, intends to run two exhibitions - one a mammoth menagerie and circus, the other Dan Rice's great show. For his menagerie for the West he sends out about twenty dens, with a circus troupe composed of Mr. and Mrs. Aymar, Sam Lathrop, S. Q. Stokes and his talented family, John Batachelor and some few others. The main features will be Mr. Stokes' children and an excellent . . . of trained horses and ponies. J. E. Warner will act as advertising agent for this portion of Forepaugh's Menagerie and Circus. Dan Rice's Great Show ill open in Washington, D.C., on or about the 30th inst. Dan Rice and his acting animals are the "cards." In the company are E. Perry and daughter, Wm. Young, Wm. Kennedy, clown; Master Fred. Barclay and Messrs. Fenny(Penny?) and Cline, and a menagerie. This concern will travel East with H. S. Stebbins as advertising agent, and Chas E. Stowe as the writer.

De Mott and Ward's United States Circus and Menagerie will start from Philadelphia. This show will have a sacred performing bull, a hurdle buffalo, a troupe of acting dogs and monkeys and a real baby elephant. They calim to be able to show an exhibition of rare animals. The circus company embraces Madame Josephine, Mad. Carlotta Ward, Emily Nelson, James Ward, J. De Mott, J. Meyers; Messrs. Howard, Ross Osmand and others. Aug. L. Rosston is the advertising agent.

Dan Gerdiner and Kenyon's Philadelphia Circus starts from Philadelphia early in April. The outfit is all new, and Daniel will, no doubt, create a sensation by having a handsome Quadroon female leading the war horse, Ingomar, in the procession. The company will consist of fourteen young girls, who will appear as Amazons, Md'lle Elin, Madame Camille, La Pete Maggie, Mast. Eddie, Wm. Morgan, Geo Derious, Mr. Kenyon, and three clowns, Messrs. Williams, Maguire and S. S. Sanford. It is rumored that W. H. Gardiner will fill the position of advertising agent.

Dan Castello's Circus will start from Fredericks, Md., in about three weeks. The company will consist of Dan Castello, Mad. Pauline, Ted Holloway, J. Saunders, Chas. Fish, R. Hannon, James Madigan, the Cuban Brothers, with several other adjuncts to make up the circus. Charles Pell is advertising agent; James N. Nixon, manager; Wm. Wert, assistant agent; Egbert Howes, treasurer.

Hemmings, Cooper and Whitby's Combination Circus. This new firm, composed of old practical showmen from Philadelphia, start out with new wagons, a handsome band chariot and a liberal outfit. Their procession will be a great feature, as they intend exhibiting to the gaze of the crowd three lions. Fred Couldock is advertiser, while John Tryon, one of the best as well as the oldest and most experienced writer in the business, will take charge of the newspapers. The company consists of M'lle Elvira, Richard Hemmings, Harry Whitby, John Foster (clown), the Whettony Brothers, J. Hemmings of "White Fawn" renown, Charles King, Master and Miss Foster, Mad. Du Nord, who will enter the den of lions, and little Gussie, who performs the baby elephant.

Dodge and Bartine's Great Worl Varieties start from McArthur, Ohio on April 13th. Their wagons are all new and gotten up in the very best style, and they have a fine lot of horses. Their street parade will be one of splendor, which is led by Prof. Dick Nolan's silver cornet band, in their golden swan chariot, followed by a cavalcade of horsemen and Burgus Ray's troupe of Indians, all in gorgeous costume: Madame Worland, Annie Worland, M'lle Emma, J. C. Davenport, Wm. Sparks, Billy Vershay, Charley Bartine, Sig. Francis, J. W. Tucker, Henry Worland, Chas. Forest, the Rivalo Brothers, . . . E. Schewer, J. W. Sharpley, Geo. M. Hill.

Stone, Rosston and Murray's Circus enjoys a reputation second to none in the country for the style of entertainment presented. They start from New Berlin, Conn., about April 15th. They will make a fine sterling procession. Geroge Bronson is the advertiser, Frank Edwards assistant, C. C. Moore, writer, and Mr. Coyle, treasurer. The company embraces the following talent: John Henry Cooke, M'lle Henrietta, Nat. Austin, M'lle Ellsier, La June Burt, the Goldie Brothers, John H. Murray and Den Stone, clown.

Circuses, New York Clipper, May 16, 1868, p. 46. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

[Yankee Robinson's, Quincy, Illinois newspaper, Daily Republican] . . . "As the carriages and cavalcade passed along the street yesterday they presented a grand and glittering pagentry that attracted not only boys, but business men to view it, and the sidewalk, balconies, fences and wooden awnings were covered with eager spectators, and the general remark was that Robins was firly entitled to his cognomen, "Yankee," in virtue of his genius of originality and invention. . . . First in order in the long line of pageantry is the celebrated Polyhymnia, which we described the other day. It is a colossal musical organ, resembling in its tones an enormous hand organ, whose loud and melodious strains are calculated to announce the approach of the caravan, and at the same time delight the listener. All that the skill of the painter can do to render the external appearance of the car gay in color and scenes has been done. On each end and one side are pictures done up by the best artists, and in a style of execution which cannot be excelled. It is fifteen feet high, thirteen feet long, and eight feet wide. On the left side the front of the instrument is exposed to view, in a deep panel, elaborately gilt, and bordered by massive mirrors. The next novelty is the great golden Dragon, with fierce looking teeth and eyes - an awful monster of the deep, such as the superstitious heathen mythologists might have fancied dragged the car of Pluto in his infernal realm, or in his fight with the abducted Proserpine. It has feet, claws and tail like the fabled sea horse, and glitters in gold. Next is the magnificent tableaux car, which presents one of the most picturesque scenes we have ever beheld. This car is drawn by six splendid matched horses driven by a man representing the god of the sea - old long-bearded Neptune - holding in his hand a trident, and this proxy seems the ideal personification of the son of old Oceanus. In the centre of the car, beneath a canopy bordered with gold, stands Amphitrite, surrounded by neriade, and guarded by the Spirit of Darkness standing just behind her. From each of the four corners of the car a long arm projected, at the end of which was an ornamented seat, in which sat a maid appropriately decorated to represent each one of the four seasons. This car and the Dragon were built by Coan & Ten Brocke, of Chicago. Then came a gorgeous band wagon, with a full band of musicians, filling the air with loud melody. Afterwards a camel led by an Arab servant, and carrying on his back a richly dressed woman representing a Persian lady. Next we have a cavalcade of twenty-five knights arrayed in burnished steel mail from head to foot, their polished armor reflecting the sunlight-like mirrors. Steel helmets, vizors, . . . and gauntlets, made one almost feel that he was back in old time with King William and his Normans, or viewing the vassals of the Black Prince. Afterwards we have twenty-four horsemen in gay maroon with white feathers in their caps. Then follow about twenty richly painted cages with wild animals, and for style of finish cannot be beaten in the world. Following these in a grotesque group, men on horseback, fantastically dressed so as to resemble, one a giagntic rooster, another a huge frog, another a monkey, one a mule, and one a bear. Inside the expansive tent, which is of itself probably the largest in the country, is a menagerie containing some of the finest animals ever brought before the American gaze. We enumerate some of them. The elephant Roscius is one of the largest and most intelligent of his species, and weighs six tons. He is attended by Mr. Geo. Hoskins. About the noblest Roman of them all is the black maned Aftican lion, Pomp, eight years old, who has a most royal look, well entitling him to the prerogative of king of beasts. He is the grandest specimen, and has the most kingly voice of any of the genus Leo which we have ever seen. . . . P. A. Older, formerly a successful banker in Iowa, is the general business manager, and most of the design and workmanship has been done under his personal directions. J. M. Chandler is assistant manager and receiver of tickets. J. B. Turner is the Treasurer, James Melville the equestrian manager and director, and Maj. Post is leader of the band. The show leaves here on Sunday morning for towns in the directions of Chicago, which place they expect to reach in June. - Daily Republican

New York Clipper, June 27, 1868, p. 94. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

Yankee Robinson's Circus exhibited at Nevada on June 12th. After the show that night the baggage and cages left for Marshall, while the performers and the canvas took the railroad. The cages and "props" did not reach the town until Sunday evening, 14th, but a performance was given on the 13th, without wardrobe or "props." All had to perform in citizens dress. Melville rode in his underclothes and bare feet, while the rest went in in their stocking feet.

The Nixon, Howe and Castello Circus troupe were doing a splendid business in Chicago, but, like all canvas shows that visit Chicago, they are obliged to submit to a ducking once a day regular, and on the 16th, in addition to the rain, the wind shook up the canvas pretty lively. M'lle Pauline and Master Charlie Fish are the attractions equestrian, while Willis Cobb and Sig. Monteverde do the dog and contortion business, to the evident delight of the masses.

Gardner and Kenyon's Circus has been doing fairly the past two weeks, while the Concert Troupe under the veteran S. S. Sanford's management is reported to being doing very well. Old Bobby Williams and S. S. Sanford are doing the clowning. The route ahead for this concern is as follows: Sharon, Pa. 22d; Newcastle 23d; Youngstown, Ohio 24th; and exhibit in Cleveland on July 2d, 3d and 4th. . . . showed at Greenville, Pa. June 20th.

The European Circus pitches tent in Washington on July 6th.

Ames' Circus exhibits in Norfolk, Va. on the 26th and 27th inst.

Forepaugh's Menagerie was advertised for Grand Rapids, Mich. on the 20th inst.

De Haven's Circus showed in St. Paul, Minn. on the 10th and 11th inst. to slim audiences.

The De Mott and Ward Circus is billed in Washington, D. C. for three days, viz: June 23d, 24th and 25th.

Circuses, New York Clipper, July 18, 1868, p. 118. Not complete. Information should be checked with additional sources.

The present tenting season has so far been the most disastrous to managers ever before experienced. The rainy season set in just about the time the boys were getting on the road, and for several weeks there was scarcely a day that was not either too disagreeably cold for a canvas show or that rain did not fall. Several days of rain make the highways in bery bad condition, cutting up and washing away the roads so that they are impassible, or else so bad to get over that many a concern is delayed in reaching the town, thereby losing a day's stand. Bad roads wear out the stock, and many a horse has to be left behind to recruit, and the baggage men, who are kept on the road all night in order to reach the town by break of day with pole wagon and canvas van have a hard life to lead. In fact, there is no class of men in or out of the show business that are greater slaves than these same baggage men. There is very little if any change in their daily vocations. As soon as the night show is over - which is about ten o'clock - the canvas men, who are also drivers of the luggage vans, commence tearing down the canvas, rolling it up and packing it away in the wagon, taking the seat plank and uprights, which are also packed in a wagon. Then the stakes, props, etc. are packed away. This is all done by the aid of torch balls, consisting of balls of cotton warp previously soaked in alcohol and placed upon the point of an iron about six feet long and standing in the ground. Half a dozen of these balls light up the entire lot, and the smallest object used by a circus can be seen. Everything being in readiness for an early start, the men lay down, some in their beds at the hotel, while others who are too tired to walk so far, lie down in the canvas wagon, or spreading some straw on the lot, lay off there. If the next stand is a long drive the watchman goes his rounds, calling the men at 2 o'clock, and breakfast is served at once. Then comes hitching up and the start for a twenty or thirty mile drive over a road and through a country perhaps they were never over before. No matter how hard it may rain, on they must go. Sometimes in the darkness of the night they miss their way and get on the wrong road, and discover it after going from two to three miles. They arrive in town about seven or eight o'clock, a